As High as the Heavens

by Kathleen Morgan

It is 1568 and Mary, Queen of Scots, is imprisoned in Lochleven Castle. But her supporters, including noblewoman Heather Gordon, are planning a rescue. Heather travels to a cottage in the frigid Highlands to teach a simple man—who just happens to resemble someone with access to Lochleven—how to act the part of a nobleman in order to gain entry to the castle. But in the close quarters of the cottage there is more stirring than political rebellion. A suspenseful story of deceit and betrayal, love and secrets, As High as the Heavens will capture readers’ hearts.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Christian Fiction, Christian, Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical

368 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1998

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Kathleen began her career writing contemporary romances and soon moved to historical and futuristic romances. She sold her first book, a futuristic romance, in April 1990 while stationed in Korea as an Army nurse. Additional romances soon followed, until she had sold a total of fifteen books in the general market, establishing a loyal readership along the way.

Since that time, she has received numerous awards for her work, including a Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice award and Career Achievement award, and The Literary Times award for Literary Excellence in the Field of Romantic Fiction. She was also a Romance Writers of America RITA finalist.

Kathleen now focuses her writing talents in the area of inspirational fiction, offering readers characters who struggle to redefine their growing faith in everyday life.

Reviews

[Connie G · Rating 3 out of 5]

In 1568 Mary, Queen of Scots, was imprisoned in Scotland's Lochleven Castle, and her half brother James Stewart planned that she should never rule again. A group of her loyalists decided to rescue her using Duncan Mackenzie, a double for Colin Stewart, a nobleman who frequently visited the castle. Duncan was a handsome Highlander who needed to learn to act like a gentleman for the daring plan to succeed.

Noblewoman Heather Gordan was recruited to teach Duncan how to impersonate Colin who was a bit of a dandy. The author missed an opportunity to inject some humor into the story when Duncan was learning the ways of a nobleman. Sparks flew between Heather and Duncan immediately, but she knew that her father would never allow her to wed a Highlander.

The story is mainly a romance in a historical setting. There are also a few religious messages for those who like Christian fiction. The story is fine if you want to read a romance, but you should look elsewhere for good historical fiction. 2.5 stars.

[Jennifer Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anyone who has read my previous reviews of Kathleen Morgan's work, knows that I love her writing style. This book is no exception in drawing you into the story and giving one a bird's eye view of each character. The plot is well-planned and carries through as one might expect, unfolding and revealing the motivations of each character. This isn't the type of book where you will be surprised by hidden twists and turns. The key highlight of betrayal is carefully woven through the story and builds from the beginning and doesn't disappoint.

I do believe that sensuality and attraction are a must in a romance, even a Christian romance. However, I felt like the first quarter of this book concentrated very heavily on the hero and heroine's thoughts about each others bodies a bit more than necessary. Still, this book stays true to Christian romance standards and is a wonderful tale. I'm glad I discovered it and would readily recommend it for anyone who enjoys historical Christian fiction set in bonny Scotland!

[Jeni Enjaian · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm glad I had extra time today because once I got started (again) on this book, I could not put it down. This book embodies every thing I love about the genre. It's fairly well written. The characters (though they're always extremely good-looking but that comes with the territory) are just flawed enough to make them believable and sympathetic. The plot unfolds at a reasonable yet gripping pace.

It took me a little while to get into this one, not sure why but once I was in, I was hooked. I loved this book despite all the genre clichés (like the attractiveness of the main characters and the fact that they almost instantly fall in love) and will definitely read it again.

*Update
The book did not survive a second read. The passage of time highlighted the terrible clichés and the inability to empathize with the characters. This book did not survive the second round of the cull and will be donated.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I liked that the characters actually came to know each other and understand each other, while still in an intersting plot. The references to their belief in God were not over the top as they are in some books, but seemed believable.

Heather is asked by her father to help Duncan learn how to be a noble so that he can help rescue the Queen. But things don't go exactly as planned.

[Kaziar Rawls]

Kathleen Morgan is a brilliant author. I absolutely fell in love with this book! She makes you feel everything that both characters were experiencing and made it especially easy for me to relate to the female main character. I definitely recommend this to anybody! (Guys: It is a romance, but the action is also incredible!)

[Kathryn Sneed · Rating 3 out of 5]

As High as the Heavens has an amazing storyline:

Heather Gordon is a woman of high upbringing and her father asks a serious task of her: to teach a highlander how to be a gentleman. Heather is a bit mortified at first, especially because the highlander is actually the twin brother of the wealthy Collin. Heather eventually agrees to do what her father asks, but only because it is part of a plot to save Queen Mary who is being held in a tower. When Heather travels to the highlands everything turns out different than planned and Heather must spend much time with the highlander she thinks is rude, and unmannered. As the 3 months that Heather as left to change the highlander goes by, she begins to fall in love despite her father's hatred of him and her being betrothed to another man. Will love conquer all? Or will Heather's father and betrothed get in the way?

I enjoyed the storyline of this book, but I thought it could have been written much better. I am a huge fan of Kathleen Morgan's books and some of her other books are much better than this. Although Kathleen Morgan tried to re-sell this book as a Christian novel, there was very little mention of Christ or being saved. I also felt like the romance between Heather and Duncan took over the story and instead of helping along the plotline. I would have enjoyed more about the daring rescue of Queen Mary as well instead of the rushed ending. Altogether this would have been a better book if she had gone back and re-did some parts. It's a great start for a storyline though and an interesting read.

[Victoria · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book as I love Kathleen Morgan's These Highland Hills series but unfortunately I really didn't enjoy this story. This enemies to lovers was more enemies than lovers, as all they did most of the book was yell, argue and insult each other right to the last chapter, it was so tiring to read. Half the time I couldn't understand what they were arguing about or why they were upset. I also didnt like the obsession with each others appearance which was Also quite tedious, page after page after page of descriptions on how 'well defined he is pectoral muscles were' or how 'luscious and sensual her lips are'. If I didn't know better I would've assumed that I wasn't reading a Christian book.

But the big thing that got me was not once but twice Duncan forcefully kissed Heather while she was saying 'no' and pushing him away. That really upset me, doesn't matter if she secretly liked him or wanted to kiss him, no means no and a Christian novel shouldn't promote that kind of behaviour as romantic! The plot was interesting, Duncan training to impersonate his twin brother to help Queen Mary escape, but the actual escape was a couple pages towards the end and was a let down after such a big build up through the whole book. Others may enjoy this story but it just wasn't for me.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

“As High as the Heavens” is my first read by author, Kathleen Morgan and I enjoyed the witty dialogue between characters. This is a refreshing read that takes place mainly in the Highlands. The chemistry between feisty noblewoman Heather & Highlander Duncan along with supporting characters was enjoyable amidst beautiful countryside. This storyline kept me guessing through to the end. Full of surprises. I look forward to reading more of Kathleen Morgan’s books.

[Joy]

I didn’t realize that this book was first written as a secular romance. That fact doesn’t bother me at all, but it still had traces of the dime novel in it. Too much of it in my opinion. Way too much emphasis is put on the possibility that he might steal her virtue..😂 I got to 30 percent and did not finish..I may not read her other Scottish books unless they were published after her Christian series. I do have her Brides of Culdee Creej series on my kindle, which I will be rereading.

[Kim Wilbanks · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was interesting and based on historical events in Scotland. It was a little heavy on romance for me but I'm sure some readers enjoy that more. I enjoyed the setting because Scotland is one of my favorite places to visit.

[Kara · Rating 2 out of 5]

I must admit I lost interest. It just seemed predictable, but a fun read. Kind of missed the Christianity, though that might be my mistake.

[Andrea · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too much arguing.

[Morning Glory]

Dnf. Started strong only to become Romance Novel Lite TM, but the real last straw was framing forced kisses-with struggling!!- as romantic 🥴

[Sophie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Duncan: "I love her at first sight and even though she's from a class much higher than mine, I'm going to make her mine somehow!"

Heather: "I hate him! Wait, I'm attracted to him! Wait, I hate him *because* I'm attracted to him!"

I finished this book because I kept hoping it would get better and the characters would grow. They did kind of grow, but were still very annoying for so much of the book, especially Heather. Could they not just have a conversation without her feeling attracted to his "animal magnetism" and subsequently getting irrationally angry with him?? Och!

[Betty Strohecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating book based upon an attempt to free Mary, Queen of Scots, from captivity in Lochleven Castle. Mary has been forced to abdicate in favor of her young son, and her half-brother now rules as regent. Powerful lords have moved the country to Protestantism, but Mary's Catholic supporters seek to restore her to the throne. The time is January, 1568, and noblewoman, Heather Gordon is enlisted by her father to travel to the Highlands to seek the help of the only man who can get into the castle to rescue the queen. He is the twin of one Colin Stewart, separated as a baby when his father was going into battle and wanted to be sure one of his sons would survive as heir. Colin grew up never knowing he had a brother, as did the brother, thinking he was the son of highlander peasants. Heather must educate this man in the ways of court and nobility, so he can take Colin's place for a rescue planned in May, since Colin has aligned with those currently in power and is on friendly terms with Mary's gaoler.

This story is suspenseful from beginning to end. The mystery of children separated at birth and told as adults about their true heritage is emotional to say the least. Characters are bold, believable, and have emotional depth. Not only is this an interesting story, but it is a look at the beauty of Scotland and life of the times told through marvelous descriptive passages. It always amazes me to read how much people were able to accomplish in these long ago times, from traveling through the frigid winter to living off the land in remote, rugged areas. There is just enough Scottish dialogue to make the reader feel you are in Scotland, but not too much to make it difficult to read and enjoy.

[Elisabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super good! More of a 4.5 stars rating then 4! :) Loved the setting--the Scottish Highlands (who wouldn't love that!) and the Scottish brogue. The story was really amazing...full of adventure, love, a harrowing rescue plot, the class divide, family secrets...I could go on! The theme of love--whether it is love lost, love never given, the dangers of love, the thrills of love, the fulfillment of love, the true love we receive through our Savior--runs through the entire book and creates a fulfilling ending.

There were times I couldn't put the book down because I was just dying to know what happened to Heather and Duncan. The action is pretty intense at times and I admit to shedding a few tears. Overall, a great book and one I would definitely recommend if you love Scotland, historical fiction, action and adventure, and love stories. :)

[Ruth Apollonia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the setting of the book--the Scottish Highlands--and the fact that the plot was somewhat inspired by a historical event--the attempted rescue of Mary, Queen of the Scots.

I enjoyed the read though, at times, the plot was very predictable. The romance between the two main characters, Heather and Duncan, was a mixture of sweetness and annoyance at different times throughout the book (with an over-protective mother to boot).

In the end, it is a decent story but it seems to lack spiritual substance. There is mention of Christian beliefs but, to me, it seemed somewhat forced into the scenes.

[Brooke · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I went to review her other book I just read I realized I read this book a couple months ago. This is another book set in Scotland (not part of a series like Child of the Mist is) and has an intersting plot line. It is based on actual events that took place in trying to free Mary Queen of Scotts but uses fictional characters. I enjoyed reading this book and its characters travels. I would say if I had the option I would at least give this a 3.5. Its not quite a four but way better than a three!

[Miss Pippi the Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mary, Queen of Scots, needs to be rescued. Heather Gordon's father has a plan that involved her. She is to train Duncan MacKenzie, a Highlander that is the unknown twin of Colin Stewart. She is ready to serve her queen, but will she risk living away from her family and privileges lifestyle?

I will thank you, Lord, in front o fall the people. I will sing your praises among the nations. For your unfailing love is as high as the heavens. ~ Psalm 57: 9-10

Time Period: 1568
Location: Scotland

Reviewed from a library copy.

[Highland-dreamer · Rating 2 out of 5]

As much as I love highland novels, I have to say this one disappointed. I recommended Kathleen Morgan to my friends so we could read this one and discuss it, based upon the Brides of Culdee Creek series. Since that series had a lot of good topics of discussion, I thought this one would have some as well. I have to say there wasn't a whole lot of substance with this book. He lusts after her, and then she lusts after him.. I didn't see a strong Christian element in this book, and expected something better from this author.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not overly impressed really. Didn't find the characters as dimensional as I would have liked, though I love the setting of Scotland. Also definitely seemed a little too, ah, hormonal? The physical attraction between Duncan and Heather was dwelt on a little too heavily for me,or at least in too much detail, for me to be really comfortable with this book. I felt like a little more depth and a little less description of Duncan's chest hair would have been nice. :)

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a nice christian romance but a bit on the preachy side for me. Also, the couple spent alot of time fighting with each other. Of course you love our hero and are understanding (a little) of the lass. It's not as good as her other highland series she did but still ok. I would've given it a 4 star if it hadn't been for all the argueing and preaching.

[Amy Riccio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hum. The setting was my favorite, but I think the plot and storyline was too big for the length of the book. A lot of things seemed to happen too fast for my liking. I wish Kathleen would have made the book longer and helped to tell the storyline more seamlessly by allotting more time and detail to parts of it.

[Shanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kathleen Morgan's more recent books are like "comfort food" to me. They don't expect much of me and I can relax, put my feet up and know that I'm going to be reading a good romance with some nice chemistry without anything "extra." There's always a message of faith and God as well.

[Jenelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book-it was a cute romance novel-but nothing distasteful. What I liked about it is that some of the plot actually was part of history-I thought that was neat. Of course Duncan was very appealing and this book was written for women!

[Jayci · Rating 1 out of 5]

I wish the story had more substance and description. Very basic writing, but interesting story line. The relationship was dang frustrating though - full of self-doubt and arguing. I wanted to shake their shoulders and say, "drop it! get over it!"

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was hard in the beginning because of the Scottish dialect (at least I think it was Scottish ("och, ye, mither", etc.). After I was able to get through that, it became quite enjoyable and kept me interested throughout. I look forward to reading more of her books.

[Tausha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 would actually be the rating I give this one. I liked it. This was a great read I just didn't fall in love with it. Glad I read it but probably won't read it again. I am interested in reading more from this author.

[Wendy · Rating 2 out of 5]

The writing style was excellent and it is a historical period that I am generally interested in-- however, I just could not get into it now. Maybe just not in the mood-- I don't know... :( Will try again at some point.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started reading this book because I had to, not because I wanted to. By the time I was done I was so glad that I had read it. It's not one that I would pick for myself to read but it was definitely something worth my time. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good read