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Highland Heart #1
The Highlander's Hope
When Dr. Catriona Ross discovers clues to a long lost highland treasure, her only hope of finding the jewels is to obtain the help of Scotland's most eligible bachelor and playboy, Iain MacCraigh.
Iain can't believe his luck when he finds out the jewels are hidden away somewhere on his land-- and it doesn't hurt that the historian looking for them has curves to go with her smarts. With his brother betting the family fortune, this is the life line he desperately needs.
The odds are against them, and with word getting out about the jewels, they're not the only ones on the hunt. Time's running out, but can they learn to trust each other, or will they lose the jewels and true love in the process?
Iain can't believe his luck when he finds out the jewels are hidden away somewhere on his land-- and it doesn't hurt that the historian looking for them has curves to go with her smarts. With his brother betting the family fortune, this is the life line he desperately needs.
The odds are against them, and with word getting out about the jewels, they're not the only ones on the hunt. Time's running out, but can they learn to trust each other, or will they lose the jewels and true love in the process?
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2012
529 people are currently reading
2016 people want to read
About the author
Cali MacKay
48 books321 followersCali MacKay is a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in New England with her husband, two girls and their crazy mutt. When not tapping away on her laptop and getting her characters into trouble, she can be found designing book covers for other authors, wrangling her girls, and splicing DNA.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
April 25, 2014
I have several 'quibbles' about this book but the main one is not the dreadfully quaint and totally ridiculous accent of the main character, (I nearly stopped reading at one stage- poor Iain couldn't decide whether he was broad Glaswegian or a cultured Londoner) or the numerous plot holes. This is after all, chick-lit. Sometimes the reader just has to sigh and try to ignore poor research.
No, my real gripe is that I was merrily reading along (nothing better to do while I waited for the alarm clock) occasionally checking the 'percentage' mark on the kindle and thinking to myself... ah.. another 26% still to read. We all know how stories are supposed to be plotted... the conflict, escalation of said conflicts until we get to maybe the last 10% and everything is brought together in a resolution.
So. At 70% of the download I was expecting MUCH more, maybe a decent scene in the hospital (and we all know how angsty those can be!!) when ..
It ended.
At 74%. Three-quarters of a book.
WTF..................?????
The rest of the download is taken up with a sample of Book 2 - 26%!!! And what is that like? Well, I have no idea to be honest because there is NO WAY I am going to read on. I feel cheated.
No, my real gripe is that I was merrily reading along (nothing better to do while I waited for the alarm clock) occasionally checking the 'percentage' mark on the kindle and thinking to myself... ah.. another 26% still to read. We all know how stories are supposed to be plotted... the conflict, escalation of said conflicts until we get to maybe the last 10% and everything is brought together in a resolution.
So. At 70% of the download I was expecting MUCH more, maybe a decent scene in the hospital (and we all know how angsty those can be!!) when ..
It ended.
At 74%. Three-quarters of a book.
WTF..................?????
The rest of the download is taken up with a sample of Book 2 - 26%!!! And what is that like? Well, I have no idea to be honest because there is NO WAY I am going to read on. I feel cheated.
July 26, 2015
This was a really cute story. I liked hearing the descriptions of Iain's house aka castle. It really made me want to see a place like that, sounded really cool!
I do have a few questions/comments though:
1. How old were Iain and Cat suppose to be? I was thinking early/mid 30's?
2. So Cat has 4 older brothers? Yet James made it out of their relationship still intact, after what he did to Cat? That seems unlikely. You'd think one of her brothers would have beat James, in the end, James being scared to mess with her again.
3. There was one point in the story after Iain and Cat brings the paintings to the library. Iain is bent over adjusting some paintings on the floor, with Cat standing directly behind him. He goes to stand up and turns around, "she (Cat) found herself face to face with him." How was this possible considering Cat was only 5'3 and Iain was described as being at least a foot taller than her. Hence there was no way for them to be standing 'face to face', more like her face to his chest/stomach area. haha So in reality there shouldn't have been any real awkwardness between the two of them in that moment.
(Sorry I can't help but notice these kind of things.)
4. I would have loved to have known what was in the other crates that were in the cave, where the necklace was found.
5. What happened with James after Cat gave her computer to the cops and wanting to press charges against him? I really can't imagine much would have been done in that area. I mean the area sounded like it was in the middle of nowhere, so I can't imagine them having people available to deal with hacking and whatnot.
6. Malcolm....what can I say about him? I wish he would have gotten hurt in some way. I was definitely not a fan whatsoever of him. I think Iain should have told his father about the problems he was having because of Malcolm. Especially since most likely Malcolm will keep it up, since it's obviously he doesn't care about anyone but himself.
In the end, I loved this book! It was a fast, fun read too!!! I'll definitely be looking for the next one.
I do have a few questions/comments though:
1. How old were Iain and Cat suppose to be? I was thinking early/mid 30's?
2. So Cat has 4 older brothers? Yet James made it out of their relationship still intact, after what he did to Cat? That seems unlikely. You'd think one of her brothers would have beat James, in the end, James being scared to mess with her again.
3. There was one point in the story after Iain and Cat brings the paintings to the library. Iain is bent over adjusting some paintings on the floor, with Cat standing directly behind him. He goes to stand up and turns around, "she (Cat) found herself face to face with him." How was this possible considering Cat was only 5'3 and Iain was described as being at least a foot taller than her. Hence there was no way for them to be standing 'face to face', more like her face to his chest/stomach area. haha So in reality there shouldn't have been any real awkwardness between the two of them in that moment.
(Sorry I can't help but notice these kind of things.)
4. I would have loved to have known what was in the other crates that were in the cave, where the necklace was found.
5. What happened with James after Cat gave her computer to the cops and wanting to press charges against him? I really can't imagine much would have been done in that area. I mean the area sounded like it was in the middle of nowhere, so I can't imagine them having people available to deal with hacking and whatnot.
6. Malcolm....what can I say about him? I wish he would have gotten hurt in some way. I was definitely not a fan whatsoever of him. I think Iain should have told his father about the problems he was having because of Malcolm. Especially since most likely Malcolm will keep it up, since it's obviously he doesn't care about anyone but himself.
In the end, I loved this book! It was a fast, fun read too!!! I'll definitely be looking for the next one.
February 24, 2015
This one really fell flat for me for some reason. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and the end just ... ended. And if the author had used the phrase "by the Gods" ONE.MORE.TIME. I was going to toss my Kindle into the pool.
April 12, 2019
Why did I get this? I think it was free. I certainly would never have paid for it. What utter and absolute tosh. I couldn’t get past chapter 3. This is one of the worst examples I have seen of American writers crucifying Scottish history, culture and language. What on earth was the accent that the hero was supposed to be using? Has the writer ever visited Scotland? Does she realise most clan chiefs will have been at Public School and do not speak with a cod, Glaswegian/Argyll accent? In fact no one in Scotland speaks with a cod Glaswegian/Argyll accent. How on earth could I take anything seriously which portrayed a Scotsman in such a ridiculous and unappealing way. I am utterly fed up with American writers setting their stories in the so called Highlands of Scotland and then writing utter rubbish about my country. As for the heroine - there was absolutely nothing appealing about her whatsoever! What a whining, aggressive, miserable bitch she was. And the plot? Oh good grief. Words fail me. Outlander has a lot to answer for. At least it is entertaining and relatively authentic but that’s because an awful lot of research went into it before they filmed the series.Apparently, most of this writer’s fans don’t care about historical accuracy. Fair enough. But this is so badly written as to be unreadable. Sorry, I don’t normally like writing negative reviews but for this one, I am ready to make an exception.
May 3, 2013
The Highlander’s Hope is the 1st book in the Contemporary Highland Romance series by Cali MacKay. This is in no way a historical story. This book is set in the here and now. I was a bit concerned about how this would work out. Let’s face it, Highlanders are hot because of the sexy accent and the domineering, often sexist attitude. This is hard to pull off in a modern setting. Have no fear, Ms. MacKay did a bang up job with this book.
Dr. Catriona “Cat” Ross has researched the famed Highlander’s Hope necklace for years and she thinks she’s found it. At the very least, she has traced it back to the MacCraigh clan and with their cooperation she believes she can find it. Lucky for her the senior Mr. MacCraigh has agreed to share all he knows and to allow her to dig through his family’s history. Things could very well be looking up for Cat, or so she thought. She showed up at the MacCraigh castle only to find herself face to face with the arrogant and suspicious eldest son, Iain MacCraigh. He offers his help, but demands to know the real story behind her looking into the family’s history. She was burnt before by her old partner, a man she cared for, taking credit for all of her hard work. If he knew she was on the trail of the Highlander’s Hope he could completely cut her out and history would repeat himself. It doesn’t help any that the man drives her crazy. Okay, she’ll admit that it’s sometimes in aggravation and sometimes in an I-want-you-hot-and-naked-lying-on-top-of-me way. She’s afraid to trust her instincts, thus begins a story of second guessing.
“Have to say – there’s nothing I like more in a handsome man than a touch of geek.”
Iain MacCraigh is well known for the riches he’s accumulated by his expert business sense and for his womanizing. Few know him as the man who will stop at nothing to protect his family, which is his biggest problem right now. His brother has gambling problems and takes responsibility for very little. But, now he has included his father in his problems. Iain’s money is tied up in his business ventures, but he has to find a way to free up a lot of money to pay off his brother’s debts before the family loses all they have. When Cat shows up wanting to wade through his home and life, he fears she is looking for a story to sell. Finding out the real reason she is there he quickly agrees to help. If found, the necklace could save his family, but he’s promised Cat that he would never sell it. As his feelings progress, he knows he has to come clean and tell Cat his intentions. He fears that telling her the truth will ruin the rocky foundation they are building together.
“I’m only stubborn when I’m right.”
He had to laugh. “Then ye must think yerself right an awful lot, since ye’re the most stubborn lass I’ve e’er met.”
This was such a great book. Iain was definitely a modern highlander. He respected Cat as a woman and as a professional and had no problems working alongside her. Yet, he was protective and caring. I loved his witty comments and his calm acceptance of Cat and who she was and how he dealt with her.
You can find this review and others at http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com and http://tinar1121.blogspot.com.
Dr. Catriona “Cat” Ross has researched the famed Highlander’s Hope necklace for years and she thinks she’s found it. At the very least, she has traced it back to the MacCraigh clan and with their cooperation she believes she can find it. Lucky for her the senior Mr. MacCraigh has agreed to share all he knows and to allow her to dig through his family’s history. Things could very well be looking up for Cat, or so she thought. She showed up at the MacCraigh castle only to find herself face to face with the arrogant and suspicious eldest son, Iain MacCraigh. He offers his help, but demands to know the real story behind her looking into the family’s history. She was burnt before by her old partner, a man she cared for, taking credit for all of her hard work. If he knew she was on the trail of the Highlander’s Hope he could completely cut her out and history would repeat himself. It doesn’t help any that the man drives her crazy. Okay, she’ll admit that it’s sometimes in aggravation and sometimes in an I-want-you-hot-and-naked-lying-on-top-of-me way. She’s afraid to trust her instincts, thus begins a story of second guessing.
“Have to say – there’s nothing I like more in a handsome man than a touch of geek.”
Iain MacCraigh is well known for the riches he’s accumulated by his expert business sense and for his womanizing. Few know him as the man who will stop at nothing to protect his family, which is his biggest problem right now. His brother has gambling problems and takes responsibility for very little. But, now he has included his father in his problems. Iain’s money is tied up in his business ventures, but he has to find a way to free up a lot of money to pay off his brother’s debts before the family loses all they have. When Cat shows up wanting to wade through his home and life, he fears she is looking for a story to sell. Finding out the real reason she is there he quickly agrees to help. If found, the necklace could save his family, but he’s promised Cat that he would never sell it. As his feelings progress, he knows he has to come clean and tell Cat his intentions. He fears that telling her the truth will ruin the rocky foundation they are building together.
“I’m only stubborn when I’m right.”
He had to laugh. “Then ye must think yerself right an awful lot, since ye’re the most stubborn lass I’ve e’er met.”
This was such a great book. Iain was definitely a modern highlander. He respected Cat as a woman and as a professional and had no problems working alongside her. Yet, he was protective and caring. I loved his witty comments and his calm acceptance of Cat and who she was and how he dealt with her.
You can find this review and others at http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com and http://tinar1121.blogspot.com.
May 24, 2013
Not the best written book, though enjoyable for the most part. There were some contradictions and factual mistakes that should have been corrected by a good editor: the name of one of the characters, the housekeeper, starts as Mrs. Wallace, but when she finally appears in the middle of the book she's called Mrs. Gordon, then goes back to Mrs. Wallace when they're referring to her after her appearance. Then there's another incident when Cat has supposedly called the police, but then says she actually didn't, and on the next scene we read that the police had finished taken their statement. Confusing and inconsistent.
I was a little put off by the limited vocabulary of the characters, Iain calling Cat "love" in almost every single sentence, and Cat's "bloody hell", though she IS American and has only been in Cambridge for her studies... I sort of liked Iain's character, as well as Angus' (his best friend), plus a couple of the villains (James, Cat's ex, for example) are believable. I found Cat a bit annoying, to be honest.
In any case, the descriptions of the Highlands and the historical events are fine. I might try another one of Ms. MacKay's books, but would highly recommend a thorough editing by a professional.
I was a little put off by the limited vocabulary of the characters, Iain calling Cat "love" in almost every single sentence, and Cat's "bloody hell", though she IS American and has only been in Cambridge for her studies... I sort of liked Iain's character, as well as Angus' (his best friend), plus a couple of the villains (James, Cat's ex, for example) are believable. I found Cat a bit annoying, to be honest.
In any case, the descriptions of the Highlands and the historical events are fine. I might try another one of Ms. MacKay's books, but would highly recommend a thorough editing by a professional.
December 16, 2012
I love this story! Cali MacKay's writing is so good the story just flows and I never put it down once I started reading it. I love the gorgeous, sweet, honorable Iain and really enjoyed the sizzling chemistry between Iain and Cat (Catriona). I like that the characters are well developed and you can relate to their ever growing affection for one another. The story is based around a treasure hunt with a hunk, there is mystery, some danger, and it all flows so well. I immediately purchased the second book in this series "A Highland Home" and I can't wait to start reading it...Now! :)
If you are unsure about reading this book...just do it! You won't regret it!
If you are unsure about reading this book...just do it! You won't regret it!
January 7, 2014
This was a romance with a little suspenseful danger thrown in, I thought this was pretty good considering it was a mild romance. Strictly PG and it still had you feeling the excitement between Iain and Catriona as they tried to fight their chemistry. She would push him away and say this isn't a good idea, and then kiss him. Then she would say after she kissed him that didn't happen. He would laugh her off, as she played her denial game. Catriona continued to fight it even when Iain professed his love for her until she had a wake up call. When she fears she might lose Iain then it all becomes perfectly clear that she loves him.
March 11, 2013
I can't believe I actually finished this book - mostly it was good for ranting about. The characters' vocabulary is very limited consisting mostly of "what the hell", "crap", "bloody hell", "by the gods", "no way in hell","ass" and "arse". Though Iain is supposed to be an arrogant jerk I like him the best, he's the most filled out of the thin characters. The basic premise for the story is fine and with some editing it could have been a good story.
January 28, 2013
3.5. I liked it. quick, easy read. it was a little simplistic at times. Where some authors drag things on, Cali wraps things up very quickly and maybe could have added more inf go or stretched events out.
September 13, 2019
I've been going though my books that I've downloaded for free. Most of been busts but this one surprised me. I really enjoyed it... Until we got to the end. They finally found the necklace it was in a room with crates. Now those crates were mentioned even before they went back and found the necklace. Once they finally got into the room they just bypassed them which I totally get they were after the highlander's hope after all. But would it have killed the author to tell us what was in the really old hidden crates.... Nope it sure wouldn't have. I still want to know. I'm taking away a star for that.
no info on the crates in book 2. and I have no interest in book three.
no info on the crates in book 2. and I have no interest in book three.
October 27, 2013
Dr. Catriona Ross is a historian who has researched the Scottish highlands. She believes she has found out where to find the antique necklace known as the Highlander's Hope. She goes to the home of the MacCraigh clan who owns the property where she believes the necklace is hidden, however, she tells them she is researching the family history. The senior Mr. MacCraigh is thrilled that she wants to know more about the family's history so agrees to provide her with as much information as he can. He arranges for Catriona to talk to his son, Iain. Iain is a successful business man and playboy. He is not happy to help her or that she is there but eventually agrees to assist her with her research but they do not get along at all.
Catriona has already had other research stolen by her ex boyfriend, James so she doesn't like to tell anyone much about what she is working on. James follows her and tries to find out what she has found out about the Highlander's Hope. She doesn't want James to know what she is looking for so pretends to be there to visit her boyfriend. She tells Iain about her problem with James and they decide to pretend to be a couple so that James will leave. James doesn't leave but Iain and Catriona do fall for each other and become an actual couple.
MacKay did a good job on character development. I found Iain to be a kind, caring and intelligent man who came to accept his feelings for Catriona even though she was nothing like the other women he had dated. Catriona was intelligent and lived only for her work. She had a hard time accepting her feelings for Iain. Even the secondary characters where interesting. She gave us just enough information on Senior Mr. MacCraigh and James that we knew who they were but did not over power the main characters.
I enjoyed The Highlander's Hope and really liked reading about a modern highlander for a change.
Catriona has already had other research stolen by her ex boyfriend, James so she doesn't like to tell anyone much about what she is working on. James follows her and tries to find out what she has found out about the Highlander's Hope. She doesn't want James to know what she is looking for so pretends to be there to visit her boyfriend. She tells Iain about her problem with James and they decide to pretend to be a couple so that James will leave. James doesn't leave but Iain and Catriona do fall for each other and become an actual couple.
MacKay did a good job on character development. I found Iain to be a kind, caring and intelligent man who came to accept his feelings for Catriona even though she was nothing like the other women he had dated. Catriona was intelligent and lived only for her work. She had a hard time accepting her feelings for Iain. Even the secondary characters where interesting. She gave us just enough information on Senior Mr. MacCraigh and James that we knew who they were but did not over power the main characters.
I enjoyed The Highlander's Hope and really liked reading about a modern highlander for a change.
November 5, 2015
There is romance. There is an historical mystery to be solved, clues to be followed (although that part doesn't hold much water), and treasure to be found. And of course, there are bad guys. There is not a lot of depth in plot or characters here, but it's OK for a romance novel, especially if you love all things Scottish. The writing is competent, although it could have used a little more editing. For example: the character of the housekeeper is Mrs. Wallace near the beginning of the book, then her name is Mrs. Gordon, then back to Mrs. Wallace. Had me really confused for a bit. It also tends to be repetitive - stating the same stale premise over and over again. As in all Highlander romances, the Highlander in question is a large, bossy, big-hearted gorgeous alpha-male. He also happens to be a very rich playboy business tycoon. The female main character is no shrinking violet - she has a doctorate and doesn't put up with any crap. She does go through an unexplained personality flip midway through the book. At first she is all business; seemingly not interested in any kind of fooling around; not only acting that way outwardly, but also inwardly. Then, all of a sudden she's a teasing sex siren who wants what she can get when she can get it. Confusing! The sex itself is not at all descriptive; mostly kissing.
Anyway, it's a quick light read if you're craving a little contemporary Highland romance. Oh, did I forget to mention the real reason I picked this one? It's free on Amazon. 2.5 stars for the book. The extra half point is for the price.
Anyway, it's a quick light read if you're craving a little contemporary Highland romance. Oh, did I forget to mention the real reason I picked this one? It's free on Amazon. 2.5 stars for the book. The extra half point is for the price.
August 11, 2014
SPARKS FLY!
This is a sweet, sweet read. It goes as far as kisses, and waking up together. Anyone can read it, and it might be especially appropriate for young people who also like mysteries, rather than romances!
The heroine (and she is, ultimately, THE heroine of the whole story--even though the hero gets to save her a couple times, in the end, she saves the day) is a college professor of history! The hero is, of course, the young laird-to-be of the clan MacCraigh.
Cat came chasing a dream - to find a legendary necklace. One that nobody is sure really ever existed. Iain is trying to save his brother from at very least, harm, and possibly worse, but his brother is a senseless idiot. Throw in some really nasty folks who must just want to kill someone, a fall or two, some dark , damp tunnels, and a handsome veterinarian, and you've got the ingredients for this book.
From the moment the main characters meet, sparks fly between them: first, the unpleasant type as two people who refuse to understand and trust each other stubbornly butt heads, then the more usual romantic ones. In my opinion, these sparks were a bit understated, since the two are to end up married.
I think this book might better be called a mystery with some romance. The search for first the places to actually look for the necklace, and then the search for the necklace, are nicely written.
A problem I had was that it seemed that much less time had passed than apparently did, in the book. Overall, a nice book.
This is a sweet, sweet read. It goes as far as kisses, and waking up together. Anyone can read it, and it might be especially appropriate for young people who also like mysteries, rather than romances!
The heroine (and she is, ultimately, THE heroine of the whole story--even though the hero gets to save her a couple times, in the end, she saves the day) is a college professor of history! The hero is, of course, the young laird-to-be of the clan MacCraigh.
Cat came chasing a dream - to find a legendary necklace. One that nobody is sure really ever existed. Iain is trying to save his brother from at very least, harm, and possibly worse, but his brother is a senseless idiot. Throw in some really nasty folks who must just want to kill someone, a fall or two, some dark , damp tunnels, and a handsome veterinarian, and you've got the ingredients for this book.
From the moment the main characters meet, sparks fly between them: first, the unpleasant type as two people who refuse to understand and trust each other stubbornly butt heads, then the more usual romantic ones. In my opinion, these sparks were a bit understated, since the two are to end up married.
I think this book might better be called a mystery with some romance. The search for first the places to actually look for the necklace, and then the search for the necklace, are nicely written.
A problem I had was that it seemed that much less time had passed than apparently did, in the book. Overall, a nice book.
March 31, 2015
Cute. Cat is a researcher who thinks she's found clues to where the Highlander's Hope, a necklace of emeralds, rubies, diamonds and sapphires created to help fund the 1745 Jacobite rising, might be located. This brings her to the family estate of Iain MacCraigh, whose clan was the last owners of the necklace. Iain, Scotland's most eligible bachelor - who's amazingly wealthy, to boot - reluctantly agrees to help her. They annoy each other on sight, but, of course, that annoyance translates to sexual tension that grows as they get to know each other.
Cat's ex, James, who has already stolen her research and published it as his own (which is why he's an ex), follows her to Scotland, hoping for another score. Iain's brother, Malcolm, is a scoundrel who has jeopardized the family's assets through his gambling habit. James and Malcolm team up to beat Cat and Iain to the discovery.
Some silly typos (this was a freebie), but, overall a cute, fluffy romance.
Cat's ex, James, who has already stolen her research and published it as his own (which is why he's an ex), follows her to Scotland, hoping for another score. Iain's brother, Malcolm, is a scoundrel who has jeopardized the family's assets through his gambling habit. James and Malcolm team up to beat Cat and Iain to the discovery.
Some silly typos (this was a freebie), but, overall a cute, fluffy romance.
Read
November 10, 2012This is the 'first' book in a companion pack of books. These are contemporary romances by Cali and are a light, fun read set in an interesting place--Scotland. I had the honour of beta reading this book and am happy to see it now published.
Enter slightly serious, high spirited history professor who believes she has (by reading love letters) found clues to a high valued necklace that went missing during one of Scotland's wars.
No problem, right? Well... it seems the necklace is located on the land of well-known playboy (hello, ladies!). Naturally, the two get off on the wrong foot. But both need the necklace, but for conflicting reasons. And wait... is that love in the background. Oh, you know the conflict is going to be good between the two!
A fast and fun read set in the Scottish highlands.
Enter slightly serious, high spirited history professor who believes she has (by reading love letters) found clues to a high valued necklace that went missing during one of Scotland's wars.
No problem, right? Well... it seems the necklace is located on the land of well-known playboy (hello, ladies!). Naturally, the two get off on the wrong foot. But both need the necklace, but for conflicting reasons. And wait... is that love in the background. Oh, you know the conflict is going to be good between the two!
A fast and fun read set in the Scottish highlands.
September 1, 2013
Reviewer: Justine
Rating: 4.5 Fairies
When I hear a title like The Highlanders Hope, I immediately think of Fabio Cliffside with nothing but a kilt and his hair is blowing in the wind.
Sooo NOT my thing!
Not Cali’s Highlanders, they were a pleasant surprise. She managed to mix classic Highlander read details into a very contemporary romance.
In The Highlanders Hope we are treated to,
• One arrogant male lead with a soft side
• One jilted but strong female lead
• Add a dash of wit
• Wrapping it all in a mystery
And u have the makings of a delicious read.
As for the ending Miss Mackay gave me my favorite kind, a Happily Ever After.
Disclosure: This book was gifted to Bex 'n' Books as a competition prize.
Rating: 4.5 Fairies
When I hear a title like The Highlanders Hope, I immediately think of Fabio Cliffside with nothing but a kilt and his hair is blowing in the wind.
Sooo NOT my thing!
Not Cali’s Highlanders, they were a pleasant surprise. She managed to mix classic Highlander read details into a very contemporary romance.
In The Highlanders Hope we are treated to,
• One arrogant male lead with a soft side
• One jilted but strong female lead
• Add a dash of wit
• Wrapping it all in a mystery
And u have the makings of a delicious read.
As for the ending Miss Mackay gave me my favorite kind, a Happily Ever After.
Disclosure: This book was gifted to Bex 'n' Books as a competition prize.
January 22, 2015
Omg. Was loving this book til the last chapter. And thus took a way a star.
Was to be 4 and not 5 due to how annoying Cali is with her not willing to accept what she felt for Iain. And then she kept bashing him about her feelings! And he was dumb enough to stand for it. Sigh.
Great idea for a story/fantasy. Kept me turning the page. However the last chapter had me asking what the hell as soon as it started. I felt like I missed something and went back a page or two and reread...nope was a jump in time. Left me feeling cheated and rushed for an ending. Sad.
And because of that feeling I couldn't get into the sneak preview of angus's story.
Was to be 4 and not 5 due to how annoying Cali is with her not willing to accept what she felt for Iain. And then she kept bashing him about her feelings! And he was dumb enough to stand for it. Sigh.
Great idea for a story/fantasy. Kept me turning the page. However the last chapter had me asking what the hell as soon as it started. I felt like I missed something and went back a page or two and reread...nope was a jump in time. Left me feeling cheated and rushed for an ending. Sad.
And because of that feeling I couldn't get into the sneak preview of angus's story.
August 28, 2013
A semi nice read I thought the story was a bit slow in places and needed more content. The development of the characters wasn't up to par. There were other supporting characters along the way maybe a bit too many. The romance was not that great. I just couldn't get into the book.
Want to read
August 21, 2013FREE at Smashwords
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November 23, 2014Couldn't finish this one. Since I couldn't I will not rate it.
December 13, 2019
Dr. Cat Ross is in Scotland to research the whereabouts of the Highland Hope, a priceless bejeweled necklace with significant historical value. She needs help from the MacCraigh clan since she suspects the necklace is hidden somewhere on their property. She just didn’t expect to have a flat tire as she’s driving up to meet the family, nor did she think a gorgeous man in the Jag would nearly run her over.
Iain MacCraigh is the laird of the clan, he’s some type of businessman (real estate, I think), and he’s in charge of taking care of his immediate family even though his father is still alive and well. He has a lot of responsibility and only dates models. After he leaves an angry woman on the road to deal with a flat tire herself, he didn’t expect to later find her in his castle talking with his dad.
Iain and Cat have great chemistry and the sexual tension was off the charts, but they argued a lot. They’re both stubborn and their tempers often clashed, which sometimes made them unlikable. Iain is dealing with family issues—his unrepentant brother owes a million plus dollars to some criminals—and Cat can’t escape the clutches of her ex-boyfriend, a fellow colleague who is determined to claim the discovery of the necklace for himself.
I enjoyed the mystery of the necklace, and Iain and Cat’s search for it, but there were a lot of starts and stops to finding it. I mean, they would discover a clue and then suddenly have to stop searching because something would distract them. Again and again. This made the story drag a little.
I liked the way the author weaved the historical information about the Jacobites into the story without coming across as lecturing in big info dumps. I find this time-period in Scottish history very interesting, so I loved all the references and facts thrown in.
Even though everything is wrapped up at the end, I don’t like how Iain’s brother doesn’t get in trouble for his mistakes. It’s obvious he’ll cause more problems in the future and that makes for a loose end when it comes to Iain and Cat’s HEA, in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance and especially the mystery. I like the writing style, I didn’t find any typos, and would like to read more from the author.
3 Stars
Iain MacCraigh is the laird of the clan, he’s some type of businessman (real estate, I think), and he’s in charge of taking care of his immediate family even though his father is still alive and well. He has a lot of responsibility and only dates models. After he leaves an angry woman on the road to deal with a flat tire herself, he didn’t expect to later find her in his castle talking with his dad.
Iain and Cat have great chemistry and the sexual tension was off the charts, but they argued a lot. They’re both stubborn and their tempers often clashed, which sometimes made them unlikable. Iain is dealing with family issues—his unrepentant brother owes a million plus dollars to some criminals—and Cat can’t escape the clutches of her ex-boyfriend, a fellow colleague who is determined to claim the discovery of the necklace for himself.
I enjoyed the mystery of the necklace, and Iain and Cat’s search for it, but there were a lot of starts and stops to finding it. I mean, they would discover a clue and then suddenly have to stop searching because something would distract them. Again and again. This made the story drag a little.
I liked the way the author weaved the historical information about the Jacobites into the story without coming across as lecturing in big info dumps. I find this time-period in Scottish history very interesting, so I loved all the references and facts thrown in.
Even though everything is wrapped up at the end, I don’t like how Iain’s brother doesn’t get in trouble for his mistakes. It’s obvious he’ll cause more problems in the future and that makes for a loose end when it comes to Iain and Cat’s HEA, in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed the romance and especially the mystery. I like the writing style, I didn’t find any typos, and would like to read more from the author.
3 Stars
August 12, 2021
I would say this book deserves a 2.5 not 2 star but hey...
It was a book sitting in my kindle collection forever and it was ok for a bed time fall asleep read.
Though the characters were well developed I didn't like the heroine. She was way to wishy-washy, couldn't make up her mind, angry and easily manipulated.
Also the story was lacking. Things didn't pull together. The clues didn't tie together at all! How did James and Malcolm actually meet and team up. What was in the other boxes?? Just so many unanswered questions with giving the storyline away for the next in the series which I am not going to bother with. It was a traditional modern day highlander meets American lass, (though honestly you for got she was American most of the time- accept for the writing, no getting away from it being written by an American with words like Flashlight..
Yeah that was a one time kinda book for me. And not a terribly good one at that. Though there definitely have been worse.
It was a book sitting in my kindle collection forever and it was ok for a bed time fall asleep read.
Though the characters were well developed I didn't like the heroine. She was way to wishy-washy, couldn't make up her mind, angry and easily manipulated.
Also the story was lacking. Things didn't pull together. The clues didn't tie together at all! How did James and Malcolm actually meet and team up. What was in the other boxes?? Just so many unanswered questions with giving the storyline away for the next in the series which I am not going to bother with. It was a traditional modern day highlander meets American lass, (though honestly you for got she was American most of the time- accept for the writing, no getting away from it being written by an American with words like Flashlight..
Yeah that was a one time kinda book for me. And not a terribly good one at that. Though there definitely have been worse.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2017
Actual: 3.75
I picked up this book (well, Kindle edition to be precise) because I like the Outlander series so much. It is obvious to me that the author must be an Outlander fan as well. The plot is about finding some jewels that were purportedly used to help finance the Bonnie Prince Charlie and the return to a Catholic on the English throne.
Anyway, it was pretty good with just a few "spicy" scenes. I did get a little annoyed with the main characters going from hating each other to loving each other and back again a few times - all in the span of a couple weeks - not very realistic.
I picked up this book (well, Kindle edition to be precise) because I like the Outlander series so much. It is obvious to me that the author must be an Outlander fan as well. The plot is about finding some jewels that were purportedly used to help finance the Bonnie Prince Charlie and the return to a Catholic on the English throne.
Anyway, it was pretty good with just a few "spicy" scenes. I did get a little annoyed with the main characters going from hating each other to loving each other and back again a few times - all in the span of a couple weeks - not very realistic.
August 31, 2017
Wow, I LOVED this book. The best/worst part about it was that I couldn't put it down! I loved all the different aspects to this story: there was romance, intrigue, mystery, suspense…AND it was all set in Scotland—which I TOTALLY loved. This book kept me going right on through to the end, and I wished it could continue, because by that time I loved the characters so much. Thanks Cali MacKay for writing such a great book!
May 16, 2025
A treasure hunt
This was a delightful and fun story. A sexy, rich Scottish Batchelor and a visiting English research PhD lady encountered in less than impressive circumstances. Forced to work together and an ugly encounter with her ex having followed her. His history of stealing her research continues until he over plays his plan and she puts an end to him. But love will not be denied and the treasure is found.
This was a delightful and fun story. A sexy, rich Scottish Batchelor and a visiting English research PhD lady encountered in less than impressive circumstances. Forced to work together and an ugly encounter with her ex having followed her. His history of stealing her research continues until he over plays his plan and she puts an end to him. But love will not be denied and the treasure is found.
June 1, 2022
I liked this book but Cat irritated me some. She always throwing at hia face his past despite him telling her a billion of times that it was not like that with her and he loved her, she was basically spitting on his face and I hate that. Iain was a fantastic man and I just loved him. He deserved more than her constant remarks and disregards
July 5, 2017
This one was really cute, but he main characters were really dumb. They didn't really do what they should have been doing and were really gullible and not very bright. I liked the idea of the story, but not the outcome or how they got there.
December 2, 2017
I enjoyed reading this book and imagining myself in Scotland. The characters are thoroughly believable and there was a good mix of adventure, suspense, and romance. While predictable, it was still very enjoyable, and I like that it can be read as a standalone without an annoying cliffhanger.
June 30, 2019
Cat and Iain and a mystery
I liked this book. With Cat being a Scottish Historian and Iain being Scotland’s “Most Eligible Bachelor” made for a wonderful read. It was believable and relatable as well. I would recommend this book.
I liked this book. With Cat being a Scottish Historian and Iain being Scotland’s “Most Eligible Bachelor” made for a wonderful read. It was believable and relatable as well. I would recommend this book.
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