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Highland Talents #2
Highland Seer
Donal MacNabb is loyal to his adopted Lathan clan, yet he resents being a pawn in their treaty negotiations with the struggling MacKyries. The MacKyrie clan needs his skills as an arms master, but its Laird is bartering for more than Donal is prepared to give.
Ellie MacKyrie knows the Lathan treaty will help protect her clan from the neighbor determined to seize her holdings any way he can—including forcing her into marriage. But she has another reason to want the Lathan alliance. She has Seen the stubborn Donal MacNabb reaching for her in her dreams.
While Donal fights to save a clan in trouble, his desire for the MacKyrie Seer wars with his obligation to his Laird. Before she is forced into a marriage that will destroy her clan, Ellie must find the heart behind Donal’s gruff exterior and convince him he is the man of her dreams.
Ellie MacKyrie knows the Lathan treaty will help protect her clan from the neighbor determined to seize her holdings any way he can—including forcing her into marriage. But she has another reason to want the Lathan alliance. She has Seen the stubborn Donal MacNabb reaching for her in her dreams.
While Donal fights to save a clan in trouble, his desire for the MacKyrie Seer wars with his obligation to his Laird. Before she is forced into a marriage that will destroy her clan, Ellie must find the heart behind Donal’s gruff exterior and convince him he is the man of her dreams.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 24, 2013
515 people are currently reading
870 people want to read
About the author
Willa Blair
35 books238 followersWilla Blair is an Award-winning Amazon and Barnes & Noble #1 Bestselling author of Scottish Historical, light Paranormal, and Contemporary romance. She has been featured on and contributes to USAToday’s Happy Ever After romance blog, Savvy Authors, Romance University, and more.
Her books have won numerous honors, including the Marlene, the Merritt, National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, The Reader’s Crown finalist, Historical Romance finalist and Honorable Mention in InD’Tale Magazine’s prestigious RONE Award, NightOwl Reviews Top Pick, and InD’tale Review’s Crowned Heart.
A life-long student and reader, she has been a stained glass artist and instructor, a foreign language teacher, a computer scientist, an analyst, a manager and an executive. She has visited six continents and can get by in several languages. She loves scouting new settings for books, and thinks being an author is the best job she’s ever had.
Her books have won numerous honors, including the Marlene, the Merritt, National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, The Reader’s Crown finalist, Historical Romance finalist and Honorable Mention in InD’Tale Magazine’s prestigious RONE Award, NightOwl Reviews Top Pick, and InD’tale Review’s Crowned Heart.
A life-long student and reader, she has been a stained glass artist and instructor, a foreign language teacher, a computer scientist, an analyst, a manager and an executive. She has visited six continents and can get by in several languages. She loves scouting new settings for books, and thinks being an author is the best job she’s ever had.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
August 5, 2013
Highland Seer is the second book in Willa Blair’s Highland Talents series. I did not read the first book, and although characters from the first book make a guest appearance, I did not feel at any time that the first book was mandatory reading in order to understand this one.
The story begins with the arrival of several Lathan clan members at the MacKyrie holding. Imagine their surprise when they learn that the present Laird, Ellie MacKyrie, is a woman and seer. The Lathan warriors seek to instate a peace treaty among key clans and they need Ellie’s signature. They quickly surmise that although her clan possesses wealth in the shape of whiskey and valuable land, they sorely lack able-bodied soldiers to protect them since most died in battle. They realize the MacKyrie clan needs them while a rival Laird is set on making trouble by refusing to acknowledge Ellie’s rejection.
During the treaty negotiations with the Lathan group, Ellie meets the man who has haunted her visions, Donal MacNabb. Ellie is immediately taken by this hardened warrior and requests that he stay and help her clan by training her inexperienced, young soldiers. Donal’s sense of honour and conflicting feelings make him refuse her offer, even when Ellie wishes to offer him much more.
Ellie is a very strong character. She makes her feelings and objectives known from the start and Donal doesn’t stand a chance. She is a beloved leader and bravely faces the handicap of being a female Laird in a world ruled by male physical strength. Donal is forced to recognize his love for Ellie while he battles to protect her and her clan. He is loyal as well as strong, and he respects her as chief. He wants her, but he feels he’s not good enough for her, that she deserves better. I loved how Donal faced his insecurities and finally accepted his worth as Ellie’s mate.
Their love story develops slowly, in a physical setting that I felt was both romantic and rough. The descriptions transported me to the highlands. I liked that Ellie went after what she wanted; it was refreshing to depart from the typical timid maiden and meet a heroine who is both wise and mature. Ellie doesn’t have too many visions throughout the book, and her gift as seer is sorely downplayed. The ending was a bit rushed, but it was also heart-warming. We do get a lovely HEA and I am left wondering who the next book will be about...
ARC received from Willa Blair in exchange for an honest review
The story begins with the arrival of several Lathan clan members at the MacKyrie holding. Imagine their surprise when they learn that the present Laird, Ellie MacKyrie, is a woman and seer. The Lathan warriors seek to instate a peace treaty among key clans and they need Ellie’s signature. They quickly surmise that although her clan possesses wealth in the shape of whiskey and valuable land, they sorely lack able-bodied soldiers to protect them since most died in battle. They realize the MacKyrie clan needs them while a rival Laird is set on making trouble by refusing to acknowledge Ellie’s rejection.
During the treaty negotiations with the Lathan group, Ellie meets the man who has haunted her visions, Donal MacNabb. Ellie is immediately taken by this hardened warrior and requests that he stay and help her clan by training her inexperienced, young soldiers. Donal’s sense of honour and conflicting feelings make him refuse her offer, even when Ellie wishes to offer him much more.
Ellie is a very strong character. She makes her feelings and objectives known from the start and Donal doesn’t stand a chance. She is a beloved leader and bravely faces the handicap of being a female Laird in a world ruled by male physical strength. Donal is forced to recognize his love for Ellie while he battles to protect her and her clan. He is loyal as well as strong, and he respects her as chief. He wants her, but he feels he’s not good enough for her, that she deserves better. I loved how Donal faced his insecurities and finally accepted his worth as Ellie’s mate.
Their love story develops slowly, in a physical setting that I felt was both romantic and rough. The descriptions transported me to the highlands. I liked that Ellie went after what she wanted; it was refreshing to depart from the typical timid maiden and meet a heroine who is both wise and mature. Ellie doesn’t have too many visions throughout the book, and her gift as seer is sorely downplayed. The ending was a bit rushed, but it was also heart-warming. We do get a lovely HEA and I am left wondering who the next book will be about...
ARC received from Willa Blair in exchange for an honest review
January 19, 2014
Pure dead brilliant!
Aye Laddies and Lassies, this is one of the most brilliant enticing Scottish Highland stories I’ve read in a long time. The writing captivated me throughout the whole story. The humorous Scottish language had me busting out laughing in some of the scenes and the drama’s build up was so intense that it kept me on the edge of my seat.
The characters had the perfect chemistry and I loved how unexpectedly love came up from behind and bitchslapped Donal. The growing realization was humorous.
Donal MacNabb is a stubborn old man, his personality is full of dry humor which I love. He kind of reminds me of my own husband, strong of course, wise in his years of experience, but cautious and cool headed while taking in his surroundings. He takes life seriously but in a joking way that it’s hard to figure out if he is kidding or serious. His actions and expressions make him swoon worthy and sexy as all get out.
Ellie MacKyrie is a woman who knows what she wants. Yes she has a seer’s ability but she has not mastered it fully so she has a hard time distinguishing between the seeing and dreams. She is a strong minded woman but delegate and wise enough to protect herself and her clan from danger even if she has to sacrifice herself.
The plot was intense at times especially in the end. My emotions went from calm to scared as another brutal laird over took Ellie and forced her into submission. The author made the perfect character to hate, a brutal laird who raped and killed at will and in the end the author has the perfect hero Donal MacNabb to save the day and the clan.
I recommend this to all historical romance readers and I absolutely look forward to the next book in this series. This is just one series that the character’s and their experiences stay with you for a life time and I just want to live in their world to see all their conquests.
Perfect Story and Read!
Aye Laddies and Lassies, this is one of the most brilliant enticing Scottish Highland stories I’ve read in a long time. The writing captivated me throughout the whole story. The humorous Scottish language had me busting out laughing in some of the scenes and the drama’s build up was so intense that it kept me on the edge of my seat.
The characters had the perfect chemistry and I loved how unexpectedly love came up from behind and bitchslapped Donal. The growing realization was humorous.
Donal MacNabb is a stubborn old man, his personality is full of dry humor which I love. He kind of reminds me of my own husband, strong of course, wise in his years of experience, but cautious and cool headed while taking in his surroundings. He takes life seriously but in a joking way that it’s hard to figure out if he is kidding or serious. His actions and expressions make him swoon worthy and sexy as all get out.
Ellie MacKyrie is a woman who knows what she wants. Yes she has a seer’s ability but she has not mastered it fully so she has a hard time distinguishing between the seeing and dreams. She is a strong minded woman but delegate and wise enough to protect herself and her clan from danger even if she has to sacrifice herself.
The plot was intense at times especially in the end. My emotions went from calm to scared as another brutal laird over took Ellie and forced her into submission. The author made the perfect character to hate, a brutal laird who raped and killed at will and in the end the author has the perfect hero Donal MacNabb to save the day and the clan.
I recommend this to all historical romance readers and I absolutely look forward to the next book in this series. This is just one series that the character’s and their experiences stay with you for a life time and I just want to live in their world to see all their conquests.
Perfect Story and Read!
November 14, 2015
I liked that Ellie was a female Laird. I like that she had the respect and love of her clan. I liked that people underestimated her because she was a woman but she was very smart, logical, patient, and fair. I would have liked if she could defend herself a bit more but i know for that time period it wasn't too realistic.
I DO NOT LIKE that the couple didn't get together until the end (about chapter 20; 1hr before end) of the book. Donal fought his attraction to Ellie until it was damn near too late and their hand was forced.
story - the book is really a 2.5
narrator - 3
I DO NOT LIKE that the couple didn't get together until the end (about chapter 20; 1hr before end) of the book. Donal fought his attraction to Ellie until it was damn near too late and their hand was forced.
story - the book is really a 2.5
narrator - 3
August 31, 2013
Absolutely loved it! It had all the good stuff of a Scottish Romance! Good guys, bad guys, lies, fighting, mistrust, tears and all the stuff I love to read about. These characters were easy to get to know and fall in love with. I wanted to hurt the bad guy myself! Can't wait for the next one in the series!
September 18, 2013
I got this as an Amazon freebie not too long ago and have been itching to read it (LOVE Highlander's). This is the second book of a series, but what I started with. Saying that it can definitely be read as a stand-alone with no problems.
Highland Seer is very well written, touching, exciting and magical story than any fans of the genre will surely enjoy!
Highland Seer is very well written, touching, exciting and magical story than any fans of the genre will surely enjoy!
August 19, 2014
4.5/5.0
The lilting dialogue, the portrayal of life in early 1500s Scotland and the wonderful description of the vast and beautiful highlands really puts one in the center of the story.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
The lilting dialogue, the portrayal of life in early 1500s Scotland and the wonderful description of the vast and beautiful highlands really puts one in the center of the story.
Read full review in the November 2013 issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 5, 2021
I haven't read a historical romance in a long time, so this was almost a welcome respite from my near constant fare of horror, dark fantasy, and science fiction. A historical romance, set in the Scottish highlands, with a wee bit o' the ol' sorcery. Hence the series title, "Highland Talents" -- apparently our heroine has a touch of the Sight.
So, about that. I'm not sure if she has the Sight, or a touch of indigestion at night, but her abilities to see the future is pretty hit or miss. She has a dream, and it may or may not mean something, just depending if it comes true or not. Umm...what?
*Let's see how this works. I have a ticket for an airplane ride, and I'm afraid of flying. I know the ride will be bumpy and scary and I will nearly die. On the flight, the plane hits a large pocket of air turbulence. I freak out, and then determine that I have psychic vision of the future.*
So, that's pretty much my pet peeve. The Talent was useless. Otherwise, the romance, the story is pretty good. Our Seer is also the Laird of her clan, a young widow who has seen most of the men of her clan killed at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Defenseless, her clan is open prey for greedy neighbors until she finds a warrior to protect her and the clan. Good stuff. It just needs some antacid for the indigestion late at night.
So, about that. I'm not sure if she has the Sight, or a touch of indigestion at night, but her abilities to see the future is pretty hit or miss. She has a dream, and it may or may not mean something, just depending if it comes true or not. Umm...what?
*Let's see how this works. I have a ticket for an airplane ride, and I'm afraid of flying. I know the ride will be bumpy and scary and I will nearly die. On the flight, the plane hits a large pocket of air turbulence. I freak out, and then determine that I have psychic vision of the future.*
So, that's pretty much my pet peeve. The Talent was useless. Otherwise, the romance, the story is pretty good. Our Seer is also the Laird of her clan, a young widow who has seen most of the men of her clan killed at the Battle of Flodden in 1513. Defenseless, her clan is open prey for greedy neighbors until she finds a warrior to protect her and the clan. Good stuff. It just needs some antacid for the indigestion late at night.
May 10, 2022
Ok. Well, I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first one. But it was fine.
The heroine wants the hero real bad, for some good reasons. He wants her real bad, for no good reason, and also decides he's not the right dude for her... and then the endless, and I do mean endless, back and forth of her trying to get him and him wanting her but denying his desire for her... they finally get it together in the end. THE END my friends, I prefer it when the main characters get busy midway through...
Ugh. Had to really work through this one. Fairly predictable. And kinda boring overall. But the writing itself is good. I listened to this one, and if it weren't for Derek Perkins narrating, I likely would not have finished it. So if you like Derek and you want something in the background, while you're doing other things, this is a good one for that.
The heroine wants the hero real bad, for some good reasons. He wants her real bad, for no good reason, and also decides he's not the right dude for her... and then the endless, and I do mean endless, back and forth of her trying to get him and him wanting her but denying his desire for her... they finally get it together in the end. THE END my friends, I prefer it when the main characters get busy midway through...
Ugh. Had to really work through this one. Fairly predictable. And kinda boring overall. But the writing itself is good. I listened to this one, and if it weren't for Derek Perkins narrating, I likely would not have finished it. So if you like Derek and you want something in the background, while you're doing other things, this is a good one for that.
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January 30, 2015
Donal MacNabb was special to the Lathan clan and the clan was special to him. It had been his home for many years. He was man of few words and rather gruff. But he was something to behold, quite handsome in his rugged way. He was one of the few men of Clan Lathan traveling in the Highlands looking for clans to strengthen the pact. All those who sign, help would be extended them when needed. The MacKyrie clan was the furthest away from the Lathan clan they had come. They didn’t know anything about the clan, but the keep was well-kept and very large.
Surprises aplenty awaited the Lathan men. The clan Laird was not a man but a woman. Laird Ellie was intelligent, quick-witted and beautiful. She was also a Seer. She felt that the man in her Seeing was Donal MacNabb. He would save her clan. When the Laird Ellie wanted to make him her consort he almost escaped back to the Clan Lathan, forget about any treaty. He struggled with the idea of being attached to this clan in any way. His loyalties were elsewhere even though he saw they could use his services to train the lads to fight and defend themselves.
It’s fun to watch how Ellie schemes to get Donal’s attention, make her see him as a woman, not a Laird and how Donal’s attention is very well caught but he controls himself, hating to display how she affects him. Donal valiantly tries not to like the Laird. He was at MacKyrie clan on a mission, but he wanted to bed her, and knew that a one-night stand would not be the thing for the Laird. She was worth much more and he was not the man who matched her in position. He was no one.
I like Ellie MacKyrie. She exemplifies the pride and protective instinct of an honorable Highland clan leader. She was also sensitive and compassionate. When her people were hurt, she would do anything possible to help them. She hadn’t thought she would be Laird. What woman would? But the battle at Flodden in 1513 defending King James IV against the English left its toll on the clan; most of the men had died, including her father. And those left in the last four years had slowly been picked off by neighboring clans eager to take possession of the riches of the MacKyrie clan. She was also someone who was not above asking what she wanted as well as being wise beyond her years. There were some tender scenes where she acted the Laird with a just and fair hand.
Jamie, part of the Lathan clan plays ambassador and quite the charmer. He always said the right thing. The same time Donal would be thinking something, but not saying it, Jamie would ask the question or make the right remark. This only made Donal feel more inept.
I enjoyed the chapter scene switches the author used to build suspense; ending a chapter with I-need-to know-more reaction from me only to drop back to another scene also ending much the same way, making me quite edgy until the events coalesced. Character Macduff was a bastard, the antagonist and a very well-developed villain, very easily hated which I lovingly did!
I felt each of last few chapters all could have been good endings to the story. It was an unusual ending, to have each chapter feel so complete you'd think it the end of the book and then turn the page to find another chapter. It didn't detract from the excellent story plot and writing, but felt somewhat awkward to me.
Willa Blair’s books are fun to read, continually engaging my interest with the many twists and turns of events. With action aplenty, suspense and the little extra spice of paranormal, her talent to spin a good yarn is unmistakable. I recommend her stories to historical romance lovers of the Scottish Highlands.
Surprises aplenty awaited the Lathan men. The clan Laird was not a man but a woman. Laird Ellie was intelligent, quick-witted and beautiful. She was also a Seer. She felt that the man in her Seeing was Donal MacNabb. He would save her clan. When the Laird Ellie wanted to make him her consort he almost escaped back to the Clan Lathan, forget about any treaty. He struggled with the idea of being attached to this clan in any way. His loyalties were elsewhere even though he saw they could use his services to train the lads to fight and defend themselves.
It’s fun to watch how Ellie schemes to get Donal’s attention, make her see him as a woman, not a Laird and how Donal’s attention is very well caught but he controls himself, hating to display how she affects him. Donal valiantly tries not to like the Laird. He was at MacKyrie clan on a mission, but he wanted to bed her, and knew that a one-night stand would not be the thing for the Laird. She was worth much more and he was not the man who matched her in position. He was no one.
I like Ellie MacKyrie. She exemplifies the pride and protective instinct of an honorable Highland clan leader. She was also sensitive and compassionate. When her people were hurt, she would do anything possible to help them. She hadn’t thought she would be Laird. What woman would? But the battle at Flodden in 1513 defending King James IV against the English left its toll on the clan; most of the men had died, including her father. And those left in the last four years had slowly been picked off by neighboring clans eager to take possession of the riches of the MacKyrie clan. She was also someone who was not above asking what she wanted as well as being wise beyond her years. There were some tender scenes where she acted the Laird with a just and fair hand.
Jamie, part of the Lathan clan plays ambassador and quite the charmer. He always said the right thing. The same time Donal would be thinking something, but not saying it, Jamie would ask the question or make the right remark. This only made Donal feel more inept.
I enjoyed the chapter scene switches the author used to build suspense; ending a chapter with I-need-to know-more reaction from me only to drop back to another scene also ending much the same way, making me quite edgy until the events coalesced. Character Macduff was a bastard, the antagonist and a very well-developed villain, very easily hated which I lovingly did!
I felt each of last few chapters all could have been good endings to the story. It was an unusual ending, to have each chapter feel so complete you'd think it the end of the book and then turn the page to find another chapter. It didn't detract from the excellent story plot and writing, but felt somewhat awkward to me.
Willa Blair’s books are fun to read, continually engaging my interest with the many twists and turns of events. With action aplenty, suspense and the little extra spice of paranormal, her talent to spin a good yarn is unmistakable. I recommend her stories to historical romance lovers of the Scottish Highlands.
November 22, 2013
Willa Blair's latest Scottish Highlands historical is the deeply satisfying story of a desperate lady laird and an honor-driven master of arms. The pair finds themselves battling divided loyalties, terrifying omens, a ruthless neighboring clan and an impossible passion. Hmm. 16th-century intrigue, muscled men with claymores and a doomed romance — is it any wonder I was reluctant to leave the rich, riveting world of Highland Seer? Good thing I can make my way back easily enough — all I have to do is treat myself to Blair's celebrated debut, Highland Healer. First, though, let me finish extolling the many virtues of this second book in the Highland Talents series. (By the way, though Highland Seer doesn't open the series, it works well as a stand-alone story. But if you're like me, you won't want it to.)
She reached out and took his hand, counting on his reaction to her touch to delay him. "I wish ye'd stay awhile."
The gaze Donal turned on her glinted like an icy pool. The kind that stopped your heart and froze your breath in your lungs. The kind so beautiful in winter that you didn't mind the cold. Suddenly she ached to plunge into those depths— but would he let her? His lips quirked. Fire and ice.
He lifted his free hand to her face and brushed his knuckles gently across her cheek. "I'd like nothin' more, lass. But I canna stay. Ye ken the reason."
Ellie sucked in a breath. His touch sent shivers racing down her spine. "Do I?"
"Ye're no' the sort of lass to dally with a man. Ye want a husband. Ye're a laird in yer own right."
But more than clan status is keeping Donal and Ellie apart. Blair has crafted layer upon layer of conflict so ironclad the story teems with tension and expectancy. Donal feels a fierce loyalty to the Lathans, and has no desire to be away from his clan for even the year Ellie tries to negotiate — especially when it will mean watching her take another man as consort. Ellie is just as devoted to the MacKyries, who are struggling to recover from the clan wars, which means she has no choice but to accept the neighboring Laird's proposal of marriage when he threatens to lay waste to what's left of her village. And throughout it all, Donal refuses to trust in Ellie's Sight — a Sight which adds a dark, mesmerizing edge to the story — I would love to have experienced more of Ellie's visions.
I adored Ellie's courage, as she's refreshingly forthright about her desire for Donal, and Donal's sense of honor will make you swoon. (If his prowess with a sword doesn't already have you in a dead faint.) The romance builds in a slow and gratifying way and the author paces this perfectly, granting Donal and Ellie the time they need to overcome all obstacles to a future together. And of course while she's at it, Blair is also whipping the reader into a frenzy of anticipation! Besides a cast, plot and story rhythm that are nothing short of stimulating, Highland Seer offers up some lovely prose:
A sprawling village puddled out from the base of the walls like a sitting woman's skirt, and a trail meandered through its midst to the keep's open gates.
The Highlands await and the keep's gates are open. I'll see you there!
She reached out and took his hand, counting on his reaction to her touch to delay him. "I wish ye'd stay awhile."
The gaze Donal turned on her glinted like an icy pool. The kind that stopped your heart and froze your breath in your lungs. The kind so beautiful in winter that you didn't mind the cold. Suddenly she ached to plunge into those depths— but would he let her? His lips quirked. Fire and ice.
He lifted his free hand to her face and brushed his knuckles gently across her cheek. "I'd like nothin' more, lass. But I canna stay. Ye ken the reason."
Ellie sucked in a breath. His touch sent shivers racing down her spine. "Do I?"
"Ye're no' the sort of lass to dally with a man. Ye want a husband. Ye're a laird in yer own right."
But more than clan status is keeping Donal and Ellie apart. Blair has crafted layer upon layer of conflict so ironclad the story teems with tension and expectancy. Donal feels a fierce loyalty to the Lathans, and has no desire to be away from his clan for even the year Ellie tries to negotiate — especially when it will mean watching her take another man as consort. Ellie is just as devoted to the MacKyries, who are struggling to recover from the clan wars, which means she has no choice but to accept the neighboring Laird's proposal of marriage when he threatens to lay waste to what's left of her village. And throughout it all, Donal refuses to trust in Ellie's Sight — a Sight which adds a dark, mesmerizing edge to the story — I would love to have experienced more of Ellie's visions.
I adored Ellie's courage, as she's refreshingly forthright about her desire for Donal, and Donal's sense of honor will make you swoon. (If his prowess with a sword doesn't already have you in a dead faint.) The romance builds in a slow and gratifying way and the author paces this perfectly, granting Donal and Ellie the time they need to overcome all obstacles to a future together. And of course while she's at it, Blair is also whipping the reader into a frenzy of anticipation! Besides a cast, plot and story rhythm that are nothing short of stimulating, Highland Seer offers up some lovely prose:
A sprawling village puddled out from the base of the walls like a sitting woman's skirt, and a trail meandered through its midst to the keep's open gates.
The Highlands await and the keep's gates are open. I'll see you there!
July 29, 2016
3.5 Stars. Highland Seer is the story of Ellie MacKyrie, a strong and wise young woman gifted with the Sight, struggling to hold a failing clan together while fending off raids from neighboring clans and marriage proposals from rival lairds. So she's heartened when a band of strapping warriors arrives from a far-off clan offering an alliance treaty. But with them is the man of her dreams (literally), and while she thinks he is the answer to her prayers, he wants nothing to do with her beyond the formalities of a hostess and her guest. But Ellie is determined to do whatever it takes to protect the people of her clan, and she's not above driving a hard bargain for her clan's participation in the alliance treaty: a year of Donal MacNabb's services training her ragtag group of would-be warriors, and a year for her to convince him he's the only man for her. She has an uphill battle ahead of her on both counts: Donal is not pleased at being used as a political pawn, and though he is instantly attracted to the beautiful and brave laird of MacKyrie, he is frightened by her gift and intimidated by the power she wields. And the task of training the few able-bodied boys left to the clan after years of warfare is monumental. But the arrival of a powerful rival laird determined to make the MacKyrie his own convinces Donal of how vulnerable Ellie's position is, and what started as a reluctant alliance of convenience becomes a fight to the death--for his honor, for the clan he cannot abandon, and for the woman he loves.
The story is well written with fantastic description of the gorgeous MacKyrie valley and everyday life in a highland clan. Ellie's character is unique and engaging, and she's the first female laird I've encountered. But there is a lot of repetitive material that caused the story to drag in places, and Donal's continued excuses for resisting Ellie were flimsy to begin with and really started to wear thin as the plot and the chemistry between them progressed. The story started off strong and finished strong, but there was a missed opportunity in between for added conflict and drama, and for filling in some of the blanks in Donal's backstory, thus strengthening his character. But I was hooked on the story and rooting for our hero and heroine to find happily ever after, and I had to keep reading till the end to see how it all came together, even if I was a little annoyed at having to skim repetitive passages, and even if I did want to smack Donal upside the head a few times. I think this is different enough from other Highland romances to stand out from the pack, and I will read the others in this series. Ms. Blair's writing style is natural and evocative . . . I'll just hope for a little more meat and a little less fat in future installments.
*This review originally appeared on Romantic Historical Reviews*
The story is well written with fantastic description of the gorgeous MacKyrie valley and everyday life in a highland clan. Ellie's character is unique and engaging, and she's the first female laird I've encountered. But there is a lot of repetitive material that caused the story to drag in places, and Donal's continued excuses for resisting Ellie were flimsy to begin with and really started to wear thin as the plot and the chemistry between them progressed. The story started off strong and finished strong, but there was a missed opportunity in between for added conflict and drama, and for filling in some of the blanks in Donal's backstory, thus strengthening his character. But I was hooked on the story and rooting for our hero and heroine to find happily ever after, and I had to keep reading till the end to see how it all came together, even if I was a little annoyed at having to skim repetitive passages, and even if I did want to smack Donal upside the head a few times. I think this is different enough from other Highland romances to stand out from the pack, and I will read the others in this series. Ms. Blair's writing style is natural and evocative . . . I'll just hope for a little more meat and a little less fat in future installments.
*This review originally appeared on Romantic Historical Reviews*
February 4, 2016
Title: Highland Seer - Highland Talents Book 2
Author: Willa Blair
Published: 3-31-15
Publisher: Wild Rose Press
Pages: 334
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub Genre: Medieval
ISBN: 9781628391144
ASIN: B00UK7I9VA
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
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Donal McNabb, Master of Arms for the Clan Lathan and six others have been sent out by Toran Lathan to visit neighboring clans to try and broker a proposal of a peace treaty. A treaty of mutual defense and aid against invading armies.
The men rescue a group of old men and young boys taking supplies back to their village unescorted by guards. They quickly dispatch the bandits and then escort the wounded and survivors home to the MacKrie Keep. There Donal discovers that they are led not by a seasoned Laird, but rather by their seer, a young widow being forced to accept the attention of a despised neighboring Laird following the death of her father, the previous Laird and nearly all the men and warriors of their clan at the battle Flooden four years before.
What follows is intense, suspenseful and exciting. This story surprised me as historical anything is not usually my type of reading. I did not read the entire synopsis and found out later it was a historical romance. After putting it off a few weeks I decided to read a little of the story to see if I should just delete it or not. The next thing I knew I was finished with the book. I loved the characters and the plot held my attention from beginning to end. If you like historical stories I can only imagine how much more you will be fascinated by this story than I was and believe me I was fascinated. I think you will be looking for more of the same soon and Willa Blair has already provided it.
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Highland-Seer-T...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00U...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...#
Author: Willa Blair
Published: 3-31-15
Publisher: Wild Rose Press
Pages: 334
Genre: Historical Romance
Sub Genre: Medieval
ISBN: 9781628391144
ASIN: B00UK7I9VA
Reviewer: DelAnne
Reviewed For: NetGalley
.
Donal McNabb, Master of Arms for the Clan Lathan and six others have been sent out by Toran Lathan to visit neighboring clans to try and broker a proposal of a peace treaty. A treaty of mutual defense and aid against invading armies.
The men rescue a group of old men and young boys taking supplies back to their village unescorted by guards. They quickly dispatch the bandits and then escort the wounded and survivors home to the MacKrie Keep. There Donal discovers that they are led not by a seasoned Laird, but rather by their seer, a young widow being forced to accept the attention of a despised neighboring Laird following the death of her father, the previous Laird and nearly all the men and warriors of their clan at the battle Flooden four years before.
What follows is intense, suspenseful and exciting. This story surprised me as historical anything is not usually my type of reading. I did not read the entire synopsis and found out later it was a historical romance. After putting it off a few weeks I decided to read a little of the story to see if I should just delete it or not. The next thing I knew I was finished with the book. I loved the characters and the plot held my attention from beginning to end. If you like historical stories I can only imagine how much more you will be fascinated by this story than I was and believe me I was fascinated. I think you will be looking for more of the same soon and Willa Blair has already provided it.
Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Highland-Seer-T...
Barnes and Noble link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00U...
Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
The Reading Room link: https://www.facebook.com/The-Reading-...#
October 14, 2013
Highland Seer combines the fun of a highland romance with a dash of paranormal activity. On a diplomatic mission Donal McNabb, arms master, is thrown together with Ellie MacKyrie, a female laird of a struggling clan. She has a sketchy seer’s gift, the messages aren’t clear, but she’s convinced the savior for her clan is Donal. He has no understanding of the craft and little patience with her forthright manner. Their conflict revolves around his belief he has nothing to offer this wildly attractive woman who stirs his heart. Her insistence that he is literally the man in her ambiguous dreams does nothing to improve his mood. (I rather like a grumpy hero.) Danger is added to the plot by a nefarious individual lurking in the heather with designs on Ellie.
If I had one quibble it’s that it was light on the ‘seer’. Ellie’s talent is so unspecific to be unnecessary to the plot. She’s not sure what the dreams mean, warnings are vague. Her dreams could have been taken out all together and instead substituted for her instincts as a clan leader. A simple feeling that something was wrong, would have served the same purpose as nonspecific visions. Donal would have still been opposed to their union as he felt her position was far above his. The novel is still a fun read with a likeable hero and heroine and a few spicy sex scenes. Several interesting tidbits on the importance of whisky in the highland economy were pleasant additions to a romance novel.
If I had one quibble it’s that it was light on the ‘seer’. Ellie’s talent is so unspecific to be unnecessary to the plot. She’s not sure what the dreams mean, warnings are vague. Her dreams could have been taken out all together and instead substituted for her instincts as a clan leader. A simple feeling that something was wrong, would have served the same purpose as nonspecific visions. Donal would have still been opposed to their union as he felt her position was far above his. The novel is still a fun read with a likeable hero and heroine and a few spicy sex scenes. Several interesting tidbits on the importance of whisky in the highland economy were pleasant additions to a romance novel.
November 30, 2013
As MacKyrie Laird, Ellie has fought these last few years to keep her clan safe and keep her clan's whiskey business profitable. Now she was to fight for the man of her dreams. She's a Seer who knows that Donal, a noble warrior who saved her whiskey shipment from raiders, is the one for her and the one who will protect her clan after they lost all their warriors during a bloody battle years ago. Donal doesn't trust Ellie's ability nor does he believe that he's worthy of being a consort to a Laird.
From the beginning, Blair immerses the reader in this tumultuous time in Scotland's history. Her descriptions of the setting, societal structure, and colorful characters are woven into the action from physical battles to battles of wit, so the story is never bogged down but flows quickly and is a page turner. I loved Ellie and Donal from the beginning and rooted for their romance to happen. I particularly enjoyed the strength Ellie showed in leading her people and standing up for her clan. Blair threw in enough twists that it made me wonder how the characters were going to overcome these obstacles and have a happy ending.
If you like Scottish Highland romances, I recommend this book. It is the second in her Highland Talents series, but Blair gives you enough background that this can be a standalone story. Although after you read this one, you'll definitely want to check out the other in her series.
From the beginning, Blair immerses the reader in this tumultuous time in Scotland's history. Her descriptions of the setting, societal structure, and colorful characters are woven into the action from physical battles to battles of wit, so the story is never bogged down but flows quickly and is a page turner. I loved Ellie and Donal from the beginning and rooted for their romance to happen. I particularly enjoyed the strength Ellie showed in leading her people and standing up for her clan. Blair threw in enough twists that it made me wonder how the characters were going to overcome these obstacles and have a happy ending.
If you like Scottish Highland romances, I recommend this book. It is the second in her Highland Talents series, but Blair gives you enough background that this can be a standalone story. Although after you read this one, you'll definitely want to check out the other in her series.
December 21, 2013
Received this book via a Goodreads Giveaway
I enjoyed the overall storyline. I loved the strong leadership of Ellie in this story and her love for her people and wanting the best for them. Donal is your typical Alpha Male who is incredibly stubborn. I did sometimes feel the story got a little slow and is the only reason that I rated this book 4 stars instead of 5. I felt it could have included a lot more action. I thought the Seer ability of Ellie was interesting think it would be cool had she learned to better interpret events from her dreams as that would/could have made her character become even stronger. I like how the main characters Ellie and Donal have a growth they go through as the book progresses and they do not get together in the first chapter. It builds the chemistry between them until the build up to the climax of the story and then what happens during the resolution. The climax of the story was exciting and left me sitting on the edge of my seating in what was going to happen. I love all the scottish highland mythology in this book! I would definitely read other books by this author. Overall likable characters and the bad guys you absolute hate. I would recommend this book to others who enjoy this historical romance with a paranormal ability thrown in their.
I enjoyed the overall storyline. I loved the strong leadership of Ellie in this story and her love for her people and wanting the best for them. Donal is your typical Alpha Male who is incredibly stubborn. I did sometimes feel the story got a little slow and is the only reason that I rated this book 4 stars instead of 5. I felt it could have included a lot more action. I thought the Seer ability of Ellie was interesting think it would be cool had she learned to better interpret events from her dreams as that would/could have made her character become even stronger. I like how the main characters Ellie and Donal have a growth they go through as the book progresses and they do not get together in the first chapter. It builds the chemistry between them until the build up to the climax of the story and then what happens during the resolution. The climax of the story was exciting and left me sitting on the edge of my seating in what was going to happen. I love all the scottish highland mythology in this book! I would definitely read other books by this author. Overall likable characters and the bad guys you absolute hate. I would recommend this book to others who enjoy this historical romance with a paranormal ability thrown in their.
September 18, 2013
The second in the series of Highland Talents but you do not have to have read the first book for this one to make sense.
This book follows Donal and Jamie as they travel the highlands to make treaties with various clans to give them all a stronger stand. They arrive at Clan MacKyrie to find that all the fighting men are missing and a whole set of problems resting on the shoulders of the laird, who in this case turns out to be Ellie.
Ellie is a strong character who has already been married, so she is no blushing maiden, but a woman who knows what she wants and is prepared to work to get it! She has the Sight although it is not that clear cut - she doesn't always understand the visions until it is too late.
Just as in the first book, the characters in this are all wonderful. They have their good points and their bad. The 'bad guys' in this are horrible and trust me, you will want to be fighting them yourself.
I have loved losing myself with the men and women of the Highlands and am looking forward to reading Book 3 when it comes out. Definitely recommended.
This book follows Donal and Jamie as they travel the highlands to make treaties with various clans to give them all a stronger stand. They arrive at Clan MacKyrie to find that all the fighting men are missing and a whole set of problems resting on the shoulders of the laird, who in this case turns out to be Ellie.
Ellie is a strong character who has already been married, so she is no blushing maiden, but a woman who knows what she wants and is prepared to work to get it! She has the Sight although it is not that clear cut - she doesn't always understand the visions until it is too late.
Just as in the first book, the characters in this are all wonderful. They have their good points and their bad. The 'bad guys' in this are horrible and trust me, you will want to be fighting them yourself.
I have loved losing myself with the men and women of the Highlands and am looking forward to reading Book 3 when it comes out. Definitely recommended.
July 18, 2014
HIGHLAND SEER by Willa Blair is an wickedly delicious Scottish Medieval Historical Romance with Paranormal twists. #2 in the "Highland Talents" series, but can be read as a stand alone. See, "Highland Gift".
Fast paced, sensual read of intrigue, passion, danger, secrets and love. Meet, Ellie MacKyrie, the female Laird of clan MacKyrie, who just happens to be a Highland Seer, as well. And Donal MacNabb, adopted son of the Lathan clan. Together, they embark on a journey of danger,sensual tension, and the power of love. WOW! What's not to love with sensual love scenes that heat up the page and Highland danger! The characters are strong, and engaging. The storyline is absolutely delicious, filled with danger, Highland intrigue, with paranormal twists and Highland suspense. Powerful tale! A must read! Well done, indeed! Received for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
Fast paced, sensual read of intrigue, passion, danger, secrets and love. Meet, Ellie MacKyrie, the female Laird of clan MacKyrie, who just happens to be a Highland Seer, as well. And Donal MacNabb, adopted son of the Lathan clan. Together, they embark on a journey of danger,sensual tension, and the power of love. WOW! What's not to love with sensual love scenes that heat up the page and Highland danger! The characters are strong, and engaging. The storyline is absolutely delicious, filled with danger, Highland intrigue, with paranormal twists and Highland suspense. Powerful tale! A must read! Well done, indeed! Received for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
May 30, 2015
Okay, I admit it. I'm a sucker for a highlander story. There's something about brave, sexy men that are fiercely loyal that makes my heart swoon every time. I did not read book #1 in this series and I had no problems reading this book as a standalone.
Ellie MacKyrie is Laird of her clan. I love it that women were clan leaders back in the day in Scotland. It's just another reason why I love highlanders so much. She is a strong character but still feminine and a great leader of her clan. Donal McNab is a great hero. I enjoy a brooding and serious hero now and again. Donal definitely fit that description. I was rooting for these two the whole time.
There is plenty of drama and suspense in this story and I enjoyed reading about a clan that made it's living off of whisky production and distribution.
The only thing I did not care for was a 'near rape' scene. Those always disturb me, so I was glad it was brief and the rape didn't happen. Overall this was a very enjoyable story.
Ellie MacKyrie is Laird of her clan. I love it that women were clan leaders back in the day in Scotland. It's just another reason why I love highlanders so much. She is a strong character but still feminine and a great leader of her clan. Donal McNab is a great hero. I enjoy a brooding and serious hero now and again. Donal definitely fit that description. I was rooting for these two the whole time.
There is plenty of drama and suspense in this story and I enjoyed reading about a clan that made it's living off of whisky production and distribution.
The only thing I did not care for was a 'near rape' scene. Those always disturb me, so I was glad it was brief and the rape didn't happen. Overall this was a very enjoyable story.
October 27, 2013
This is the story of Donal and Ellie. Ellie is the laird of her clan and fighting a losing battle keeping her clan safe and secure. A neighboring laird wants her lands and is determined to marry Ellie by fair means or foul. Donal has made his home with the Latham clan, and he's come to love life with them and working as an arms master.
I enjoyed the characters and the plot of this story, and especially liked the Scottish setting and the background of the whisky that Ellie's clan made for sale. I felt this story dragged in a few places, but the gradual way the hero and heroine fell in love was well done. If you're looking to time-travel back to Scotland for a few delicious hours, you'll probably enjoy this one.
I enjoyed the characters and the plot of this story, and especially liked the Scottish setting and the background of the whisky that Ellie's clan made for sale. I felt this story dragged in a few places, but the gradual way the hero and heroine fell in love was well done. If you're looking to time-travel back to Scotland for a few delicious hours, you'll probably enjoy this one.
September 5, 2013
I enjoyed Highland Seer as much as I did the first book in the series. Highland romance and adventure with a bit of paranormal thrown in. Great read!
Especially interesting to me was that the MacKyrie clan's main source of income is whisky. Since I enjoy whisky myself, I was really interested to read about the whisky making process. I had to read the entire book to find out the secret to the success of the MacKyrie whisky, but there was also a great story to go with the whisky bits, so it was worth it!
Especially interesting to me was that the MacKyrie clan's main source of income is whisky. Since I enjoy whisky myself, I was really interested to read about the whisky making process. I had to read the entire book to find out the secret to the success of the MacKyrie whisky, but there was also a great story to go with the whisky bits, so it was worth it!
August 8, 2013
What a wonderful book. Donal MacNabb has been sent to negotiate with the weaker Mackyrie. clan. On arrival is surprised to discover the Laird is a woman and very beautiful, but she is a Seer and he doesn't trust talents. Elle MacKyrie is drawn to Donal and has seen him in her dreams. But he thinks he's not the one for her. I got totally emerged in Elle and Donal's tender love story. There was action and a little intregrue in this well written book. I would highly recommend it.
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July 18, 20144.5 stars
The lilting dialogue, the portrayal of life in early 1500s Scotland and the wonderful description of the vast and beautiful highlands really puts one in the center of the story.
Full review in November 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
The lilting dialogue, the portrayal of life in early 1500s Scotland and the wonderful description of the vast and beautiful highlands really puts one in the center of the story.
Full review in November 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 12, 2017
Beautiful!
Donal and Ellie's story was wonderful. I can't believe that this series just keeps getting better and better. Strong sexy Scotts and even stronger women. Highland Seer is filled with all the suspense and danger you could want and the love seance are just perfect. I'm truly loving this series! ❤ ❤
Donal and Ellie's story was wonderful. I can't believe that this series just keeps getting better and better. Strong sexy Scotts and even stronger women. Highland Seer is filled with all the suspense and danger you could want and the love seance are just perfect. I'm truly loving this series! ❤ ❤
October 29, 2013
what a wonderful book I thought I'd read a little the read more the next day
not a chance I could not put it down next thing I knew it was eight in the morning
this is well written and pulls you in can't wait to read the next book
not a chance I could not put it down next thing I knew it was eight in the morning
this is well written and pulls you in can't wait to read the next book
September 15, 2014
I loved the Highland Healer and was happy to read this sequel. One not need to read the first book however to enjoy Willa Blair's wonderful story. The touch of paranormal added just the right 'zing'! Loved it!
November 25, 2017
Highland Seer
I enjoyed this book about a woman Laird and the man who finally admits his love for her. I really hated the Mac Duff, who was one of the nastiest villainS have read about in a while.
I enjoyed this book about a woman Laird and the man who finally admits his love for her. I really hated the Mac Duff, who was one of the nastiest villainS have read about in a while.
June 29, 2017
Is a great book to read
January 15, 2014
Beautiful. Her work gets the reader caught up in the characters lives and the story line. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more of her works.
April 13, 2015
Excellent read! Flowed very well, with detailed characters and descriptive settings! Loved it!
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