Five Days in Skye

MacDonald Family Trilogy #1

by Carla Laureano

Hospitality consultant Andrea Sullivan has one last chance to snag a high-profile client or she'll have to kiss her dreams of promotion good-bye. When she's sent to meet Scottish celebrity chef James MacDonald on the Isle of Skye, she just wants to finish her work as efficiently as possible. Yet her client is not the opportunistic womanizer he portrays himself to be, and her attraction to him soon dredges up memories she'd rather leave buried. For James, renovating the family hotel is a fulfillment of his late father's dreams. When his hired consultant turns out to be beautiful, intelligent, and completely unimpressed by his public persona, he makes it his mission to win her over. He just never expects to fall under her spell.

Soon, both Andrea and James must face the reality that God may have a far different purpose for their lives—and that five days in Skye will forever change their outlook on life and love.

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian, Contemporary Romance, Scotland

332 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 10, 2013

About the author

Carla Laureano is the RITA® Award-winning author of contemporary inspirational romance and Celtic fantasy (as C.E. Laureano). A graduate of Pepperdine University, she worked as a sales and marketing executive for nearly a decade before leaving corporate life behind to write fiction full-time. She currently lives in Denver with her husband and two sons, where she writes during the day and cooks things at night.

Reviews

[Carla Laureano]

It seems a bit self-serving to rate and review the book considering I wrote it, but that blank rating space stares at me every time I log on. Suffice it to say, I enjoyed every minute I spent with my characters and hope you will as well.

[✨ Gramy ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

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This is the first book in the series. When you crack open this tale you will meet James 'Jamie' McDonald and Andrea Sullivan, and you will not be surprised that there was an instant attraction between the two of them. These people lived high profile lives and you may have difficulty identifying with their professions. But you can easily identify with their feelings.

The well-rounded characters were complex (starting off somewhat stiffly) and self-restrained (able to control their sexual desires), and the plot was fascinating and enthralling. The descriptions of Scotland were vivid and intoxicating. This couple had deep convictions, painful imperfections, and James continually demonstrated intense compassion for others.

This was a clean and wholesome story, with a splash of faith with some trust and trust issues, blended into a mix of realism. The story is able to stand on its own and has an abrupt H.E.A., even though it seemed like the light at the end of the tunnel took forever to reach. So, an epilogue would have been greatly appreciated.

[Emilee · Rating 5 out of 5]

If ever a book made me want to visit the setting, Five Days in Skye is it! Scotland is so beautifully written. Along with this wonderful setting, is a sweet story of finding true love. James is every bit as awesome as I had heard. This book definitely met my expectations. I would recommend it to fans of contemporary romance.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard about Five Days in Skye several years ago, but never got around to reading it until now. It was everything I had hoped for and more! I started the book and could right away tell that the heroine had spunk and I loved it! The way she and James met was just hilarious and I couldn't help laughing!

Speaking of James...I loved his character. He had flaws, which made him real, and I thought the way he cared for Andrea was amazing...I especially loved how he listened to her story and didn't judge.

All in all, with a beautiful setting and great characters, Five Days in Skye isn't to be missed...even if it takes you several years to pick up like it did me. ;)


*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh I have a new favorite author and a new favorite book! I practically swallowed this book whole; it was that excellent. Carla Laureano’s writing voice lilts warmly and engagingly and immerses you in the story until you become part of the scene rather than just reading words on the page. The characters reached out and introduced themselves to me … and then quickly became old friends I was joining on their journey. I hadn’t read more than 2 or 3 pages before the brewing romance had me solidly in its cheering section, and the tenderness wielded as different characters wrestled with God was the perfect blend of the reality of faith without being too preachy.

Romance is certainly a key (and delicious) element in this story, but even more important is the theme of restoration. Both James and Andrea are struggling to find their place with God – James in the public eye and Andrea after she felt God abandoned her. James himself expressed Andrea’s struggle with God as not one who had given up but one who was seeking and “waiting for something to prove her [doubts] wrong. Something to make her believe again.” I think many of us can relate to that idea – either because we ourselves have personally felt that way or we know/love someone who has. It’s not that we quit believing, but instead we are desperate for someone to show us why we shouldn’t quit. As Ms. Laureano so eloquently put it, “We’re all broken. We’re only human. Some wounds only God can mend.” So thankful that He is in the business of doing just that…

I’m very glad I had the opportunity to review Five Days in Skye. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and a rare spot on my favorites shelf! (I already had a copy but was given an ARC of the re-issue by Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.) Read more of my review here: https://readingismysuperpower.wordpre...

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, I have to say that contemporary romance fiction is not my favorite genre; so a Christian romance has to be really good to make me say AHHH! But Carla Laureano's debut novel definitely landed in the "Ahhhhh category." There were so many things I really loved about this book. The incredible descriptions of Scotland and the Isle of Skye, in particular, created mental pictures that had me walking the hills of Scotland along with Andrea and James. Her descriptions of James' delectable dining delights had my mouth watering. Both made me realize why Scotland is on my bucket list.

I didn't think it was possible to develop a relationship between two people in a 5 day period (at least in a book), but the relationship did develop nicely as both Andrea and James looked into their pasts and realized what went wrong with their relationships and then looked forward to what could be.

The theme of forgiveness, acceptance, and moving forward was evident throughout the book. I especially liked the ending and the future possibilities between James and Ian. I look forward to reading Book 2 which focuses on Ian.

I would recommend this book to readers who like contemporary romance writers: Dan Walsh, Darlene Shortridge, Courtney Walsh.

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whooossshhhh! That's the sound of my pent-up breath releasing in a swoony sigh of satisfaction! I don't think my toes are ever going to uncurl! That Jamie....just thinking about him gives me heart palpitations. So please excuse this romantically-addle-brained review, but once you meet this hero, you'll totally understand. And then we can lounge on our fainting couches and commiserate with each other because Andrea gets the man. :-)

And I'm totally enamored over the setting! I mean, hello, it's Scotland!!!! And the way Laureano writes it has me yearning to hop on a plane and discover it all for myself. Especially a certain celebrity chef of the MacDonald variety. Wistful sigh. Speaking of which -- the first time Andrea and James meet -- sqqquuueaaallll --- snort - guffaw!!!!!! Cutting dialogue. A flirty Scotsman. A 'wickedly sharp tongued' Yank. Talk about the perfect set up for a romance! (Rats, I'm back to hyperventilating over James again.)

Concentrate, Kav, concentrate. There are other elements that make this novel a fantabulous read! Like...um...Ian, James' brother. "Being in the same room with the MacDonald men was like standing in a demilitarized zone. It seemed safe and cordial until someone got trigger-happy and started sniping." Sheesh, I just mentioned James again, didn't I? One might think I'm a bit obsessed...and they'd be right!

Love the way the author slowly reveals bits and pieces of back story for both hero and heroine. I fell deeper and deeper into their story as I discovered how past hurts and failures dictated present day actions. My heart broke for Andrea, though the slow reveal of all the particulars sent me into a frenzied rabid-reading snit! So much vulnerability hidden behind the professional businesswoman facade that James is so determined to chip away at. And -- insert euphoric tizzying shiver of delight -- he is so tenderly relentless in his pursuit. Thud....and we're back to talking about James. Again.

I'm trying to figure out a way to talk about the inspirational thread without mentioning you-know-who but since James is the one who gently shares his faith with Andrea, I'm afraid that even this paragraph is going to be about him! "We're all broken. We're only human. Some wounds only God can mend." There's a beautiful redemption story here which makes this my favourite kind of romance.

My apologies for this exceedingly James-centric review...but if you're in the market for a new 'book boyfriend', Five Days in Skye is a great place to look.

[Sarah Monzon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just as good the second time around

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful! I loved everything about this book. The setting was absolutely beautiful and makes me want to take a trip to Scotland. The author did a fabulous job of with making the chemistry between James and Andrea sizzle 🔥, while keeping the content clean.

[Andrea Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

by Andrea Renee Cox

Have you ever been whisked to a far-off land by reading fiction?

I certainly have, many times. But this time was different. Five Days in Skye was written so exquisitely that I could smell the briny air and taste the scrumptious meals James created for the fictional Andrea. If this book was a debut for Carla Laureano, there are no boundaries to where her writing journey may take her. "Master storyteller" comes to mind, but I'm not sure it's a strong enough phrase.

Must say, though, that I'm glad I waited to read this book until now (as opposed to when it first released). Why, you ask? So I don't have to wait full year to read the sequel! Not sure I could manage patience for that length of time with a tale this good.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for this honest review.

[Amanda Stevens · Rating 3 out of 5]

James MacDonald and Andrea Sullivan are two utterly successful people--he a celebrity chef, she a hospitality consultant known at her firm as the closer. Both of them think they're satisfied with their career-driven lives, until said careers force them to work together. Neither expects to confront old wounds, to reexamine the paths they've chosen, or to fall in love. But all these things happen when they spend five days together in Skye.

Speaking of Skye, the book exudes a breathtaking sense of place (a fulfilled promise of the cover). I've never been to Scotland, but I felt the beauty while reading Ms. Laureano's descriptions. James's mission to make Andrea fall in love with Scotland might also be a writer-to-reader mission. If so, it worked on me.

But the reason to read this book is, of course, for the two main characters. Andrea and James are engaging and fun from the start. They're assertive, intelligent people, and their dialogue snaps back and forth with a sharp, flirtatious wit. I also must commend this American author's expert use of British English. Not only James's speech but also his thoughts are consistent, never slipping into American vocabulary. Even his Scottish accent is somehow audible on the page. The dialogue is this novel's greatest strength.

Andrea's character is developed a bit more deeply than James's. (Not to say I don't love him, too.) Her backstory and subsequent choices are achingly believable. Even the couple's "moment of crisis" in the climax stems from insecurities in Andrea that have been built up gradually in the novel, so her overreaction is believable. I've read enough romances to know this is a difficult tightrope for an author to walk (and it's one of many reasons I avoid the genre--most authors can't balance it).

Secondary characters each have something to offer the story, especially James's brother Ian. I expected a certain character type from him and got something else, a refreshing surprise.

So why only three stars? Because I'm me, and this is a romance novel. The story is small--literally five days in which not a lot happens beyond flirting and sightseeing and inner reevaluation. Yes, that reevaluation is compelling for both Andrea and James. What's here is written well. But that's all that's here. The stakes are purely emotional. Much more could have come from the incident with James's student, but instead of a subplot with external conflict, the situation is spoken about only a few times and never shows up on the page. Also, after so many years at odds, the conversation between James and Ian at the end seems too easy a fix. But in this genre, resolution to all threads is a requirement.

Despite its adherence to its genre, I enjoyed this book. Ms. Laureano is a skilled new author with an affinity for clean prose and an ear for natural dialogue. I'll certainly read her next work, even if it is a romance, and I'll hope for higher stakes next time.

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5-4 stars
An enjoyable Christian, contemporary romance with an immersive setting in Scotland. I really liked the setting the most in this story - our main characters being in Scotland and traveling around to the different sights and such - loved that. Our main characters, James and Andrea were fun to see getting to know each other - lots of sarcasm and flirtatious moments, but still sweet. Andrea went through some very hard things and was broken by them and to see her come back to God in her brokenness was a beautiful moment. I also loved how James was willing to be there for her through he brokenness and was very understanding after she opened up to him. I really liked the family side characters too.

This follows Andrea - who is working as a hospitality consultant and has to "snag this high-profile client" or kiss her dreams of a promotion goodbye. This is where she meets Scottish celebrity chef James MacDonald on the Isle of Skye. He's working on renovating the family hotel and meets Andrea and things go on from here - sparks fly and all that jazz. :) I feel like they have great chemistry together. My favorite parts were them traveling the Isle of Skye and the faith in the ending.

Overall, I did enjoy my time reading this. The only downsides I had was I don't love instalove and this is definitley that - which you can expect going in because she is only there for 5 days right :) I also felt like some parts were a bit longer then others but other then that I really enjoyed it and plan to continue with the next books in the series!

*TW for mentions of a miscarriage, divorce, mentions of drinking

[Evangeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best kind of escape read is one that does your soul good while your brain is soaking in endorphin bubble bath. Five Days in Skye is exactly that kind of read. With romantic chemistry from page one, a setting to make Rick Steves pack his bags, and luscious details—the food, the shoes, the guy!!—to satisfy every woman’s dreams, this book delivers the perfect holiday.

Andrea Sullivan is a high-powered career woman on track to a promotion when an unexpected incident throws her off course and into the path of James MacDonald, a celebrity chef. Andrea is assigned to snag James’ account for her company, which involves a quick trip to Scotland, which Andrea views as punishment and the reader views as heavenly.

James MacDonald sees in Andrea an accomplished woman who needs to relax. He makes it his mission to loosen her up, but what starts as teasing and harmless flirtation quickly deepens as the two are drawn together by more than chemistry.

Laureano creates likable, layered characters. Both Andrea and James are hiding who they really are, but the personas they’ve created start to crack in each other’s presence.

While many of us don’t have glamorous careers involving travel, it’s still easy to identify with Andrea—the way she thinks and her past mistakes. So that even while she’s being escorted around Scotland by a gorgeous man and fed gourmet delicacies by the same man, we can still sympathize with the battle raging within her.

No, forget that. Yes, Andrea is likable, but James is lickable. You read that right. The man is delicious. At the end of the book, I was rooting for them to get together, but I was also kind of hoping Andrea would get fat on James cooking. Sorry Girl, but a rich, handsome Scottish man who cooks? You don’t get to have it all. Hope all that pasta goes straight to your thighs.

I devoured this book and like I said, while I was reveling in luscious details and having a grand time, Laureano managed to remind me that life is about more than working hard to earn good things. Taking a moment to breathe, to lift your head and appreciate creation, to let go of mistakes you’ve made and allow people to love you—all these gems are embedded in the pages of Five Days in Skye. You’ll come away from this novel refreshed and craving good food, good times and the company of loved ones.

[Becky]

Five Days in Skye swept me away to Scotland! Against the craggy beauty of the Isle of Skye author Carla Laureano weaves a story of love between an American businesswoman and a Scottish celebrity chef. Fans of the movie The Holiday are sure to enjoy this contemporary romance. Laureano's voice is deft, seamless, and wonderfully accomplished. An exciting newcomer to the world of Christian fiction! Congratulations, Carla, on your debut novel.

[Kathy * Bookworm Nation · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a pleasant surprise! I really enjoyed this one, it was perfect to read while curled up on a Sunday afternoon. I was drawn in right from the start, Andrea and James have a great first meeting. I love stuff like that (you'll have to read it to see for yourself). Andrea is a no-nonsense business woman. She works hard and has no time for relationships. Then she meets James MacDonald and her life is turned upside down. James was great, I liked him right from the start. He was a good combination of sexy confidence and sincere gentleman. They were so good for each other, bringing out the best in one another. I normally have hard time with whirlwind romances, but I bought it here. Their week together was idyllic and you can't help rooting for their HEA. I think the only thing that would have made this book better was if it had an epilogue.

Overall, a great read. I loved the chemistry, setting and overall plot. Can't wait to see what Ms. Laureano comes up with next (hopefully books for Serena and Ian!)

Content
Romance: Clean (talk of past relationships that implied intimacy, no details)
Language: Mild
Religion: Mild (tastefully done and not preachy)

[Cindy Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m powerless against a book that blends romance, spirituality, and strong characters who capture my heart. Five Days in Skye did it all, accomplishing it so seamlessly, I hardly realized I wasn’t right there with the characters. I rooted for James and Andrea the entire book, along for a ride that made me smile, reflect, and wish for more. Five Days in Skye is a must read!

[Janet Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is for you if you are mostly a romance readers. The hero is great! What I really enjoyed about it, though, was the descriptions of Scotland! I'm really wanting to go there now!

[Lot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fijn feelgood boek met diepgang, heeft mij uit mijn leesdipje geholpen. En nu wil ik naar Skye 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[Dee/ bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story. it had a few unanswered questions at the end, but most of them weren't really important. Still I'd like to think she got her coat back :)

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andrea Sullivan may have sabotaged her career with that last potential client. Now, as punishment, she has to convince TV chef James MacDonald, owner of three Michelin-starred London restaurants, that her company is perfect to help him renovate and market the family hotel he has inherited on the Isle of Skye. She has just a few days, and her job is on the line.

There is an immediate attraction when Andrea and James meet, but Andrea wants nothing to do with men, and especially wants nothing to do with a client. James has his own problematic romantic history, not to mention an even more problematic relationship with his brother, who owns one-third of the hotel.

I found all the characters to be intelligent and likeable, and I was especially impressed by the research. I’ve not been to Skye but I’ve lived in London and visited Scotland, and Five Days in Skye made me feel I was there. I had to laugh Andrea’s reaction to James calling her ‘love’. It’s a common term, particularly in the hospitality industry. Right, love?

This is a Christian novel, but the Christian element is somewhat understated. Both Andrea and James come from rural backgrounds where the Christian faith was an integral part of the family. But both have abandoned that faith, yet realise on Skye that perhaps they need to pursue God once more.

Five Days in Syke has it all: an excellent opening, a funny first meeting between Andrea and James, intelligent lead characters who are both successes in their chosen careers, excellent attention to detail, and the Isle of Skye, a beautiful and unique setting. And the last line is a beautiful illustration of the eternal romance between us and God. Recommended for romance lovers.

Thanks to David C Cook and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.

[Serena Chase · Rating 5 out of 5]

review to come in June! But... this story and these characters simply captured me. Loved! Hated when it was over, sigh.

[T · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wow it's been forever since I've written review, and I guess part of it is because it's been so difficult for me to find really good books to read. It really sucks being in a reading slump :/

To be honest, I was really hoping this book would pull me out of that slump, and it's not that it was a bad novel, but it just wasn't all that memorable. The main characters were likable, but they didn't really stand out to me. The side characters definitely seemed to have more interesting stories, and I'm guessing we'll get more books about them later on. The plot was okay, and it was pretty predictable too.

Overall a nice read. 3 stars

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Charming story of a 2nd chance at love with a touch of faith to ground the fun in truth. Enjoyable!

[Chaya & Cinnamon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good!

[Cece · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have been working in my older to-read list a while and this one has been on my list a while. I’ve always been fascinated with Scotland and since the place setting is in Skye it was just the thing I needed from some recent heavy reading. That plus my AncestryDNA updated results show I’m 34% Scottish which made this extra fun to read. I would classify this as Inspirational Romance but not one that is completely cheesy or on the surface. The characters are well developed and most of the likeable. Our two main characters James and Andrea both have pasts that have affected possible future relationships. The land of Skye is purely intoxicating in description and is definitely a character as well. A nice solid and hope filled story of what can happen when you are willing to put your past behind you and take a chance on love and life.

[Andrea Grigg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from the moment I started it. It has a beautiful setting, great dialogue, believable characters and a HEA, but the clincher for me was this. Five Days in Skye is a Christian novel yet it showed spiritual growth in the main characters without being 'religious'. A huge tick from me because of that. Can't wait to read Carla's next book.

[Carol Preston · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved reading this story set in Skye as it reminded me of my visit there and the descriptions of the environment were great. Romance lovers will really enjoy this as the development of the relationship between the two main characters is spicy and well done. The story around the romance lingered but I would have liked a bit more of that. Still, well worth reading.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was just what I needed to get me out of my reading slump. I loved all the descriptions of Scotland and Skye. I was Googling images of every place they visited and every hotel mentioned. It was practically a virtual holiday. And a very cheap one considering I scored this book as an Amazon freebie! I'm looking forward to the upcoming books in the series.

[Brandy Bruce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful romance! Makes me want to go to Scotland!

[Velma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this romance, and the descriptions of Skye, Scotland made me add it to my bucket list. I look forward to the next book in the series.