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Highland Dragons #1
Legend of the Highland Dragon
He Guards a Ferocious Secret
In Victorian England, gossip is often as precious as gold. But the Highlanders are a more mysterious bunch. And if anyone found out that Stephen MacAlasdair really was, he'd be hunted down, murdered, his clan wiped out. As he's called to London on business, he'll have to be extra vigilant-especially between sunset and the appearance of the first evening star.
Mina just wanted to find out more about the arrogant man who showed up in her employer's office. Some might say it was part of her job. She never thought the stranger would turn into a dragon right in front of her. Or that he'd then offer her an outrageous sum of money to serve as his personal secretary. Working together night and day to track a dangerous enemy, Mina comes to see a man in love is more powerful and determined than any dragon.
In Victorian England, gossip is often as precious as gold. But the Highlanders are a more mysterious bunch. And if anyone found out that Stephen MacAlasdair really was, he'd be hunted down, murdered, his clan wiped out. As he's called to London on business, he'll have to be extra vigilant-especially between sunset and the appearance of the first evening star.
Mina just wanted to find out more about the arrogant man who showed up in her employer's office. Some might say it was part of her job. She never thought the stranger would turn into a dragon right in front of her. Or that he'd then offer her an outrageous sum of money to serve as his personal secretary. Working together night and day to track a dangerous enemy, Mina comes to see a man in love is more powerful and determined than any dragon.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2013
136 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
Isabel Cooper
24 books163 followersIsabel Cooper lives in Boston, Massachusetts with her boyfriend and a houseplant she's managed to keep alive for over a year now—a personal best. By day, she's a mild-mannered editor at a legal publishing company. By night, she's really quite a geek: polyhedral dice, video games, and everything. She only travels through time the normal direction, and has never fought any kind of demon, unless you count younger sisters. She can waltz, though.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
December 6, 2013
Obscure reference alert!
Naturally, you'll recall the scene in Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey where Bill and Ted, after being killed by evil android versions of themselves, end up in Hell, which simply does not meet their hellish expectations after the depictions of it they've seen previously on the covers of their hard rock albums. Which leaves them with a profound sense of deception.
Just so:
Well, that's kind of how I feel about LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON. I feel lied to by the cover. You see, it makes you expect certain things. For example, please see Exhibit A. A sword. Now, forgive me, but if it's on the cover, it should be in the book somewhere, right? Mentioning the lead character has a sword on display over his fireplace is not sufficient. I want the sword-wielding warrior from the cover, please. Instead, Stephen MacAlasdair was a refined, well-to-do gentleman with perfect tea-drinking etiquette. There wasn't even the barest hint of rugged warriorness to his character.
Then we have Exhibit B. A kilt. There was no wearing, or mention of, a single kilt in this book. To even have the word "Highland" on the cover, and then have him be more English than Scottish, in waistcoat and trousers and living in London, was just an affront. He had the barest hint of a Scottish accent, but otherwise seemed like any other English toff. As a big reader of Highland romances, this meant I missed out on a lot of what I love about the genre - clan life and the colourful characters usually associated with it, for one. So this was yet another disappointment.
And finally, Exhibit C. The biggest lie of all. Now where do you suppose this book is set? Well, let's refer to the cover. Now, where could that be...The wilds of Scotland? Some remote, picturesque Scottish isle, perhaps?
WRONG! It's set in smoggy, foggy, stuffy and uptight Victorian England. It's much more in the vein of a regency style historical mystery than the Scottish Romance it seems to so blatantly offer. This has to be by far the most misleading aspect of the whole thing, and I am now officially wearing my unhappy face.
And the thing is, none of these things actually affect the quality of the story, and, indeed, it was a pleasant enough book with decent characters, if a bit flat and reserved. BUT IT WASN'T WHAT IT PROMISED TO BE! That's my gripe, and one I can't seem to get past. That, and that the climactic ending was very rushed. Seeming to both start and finish within the last 5% of the book.
So, all together, not a particularly satisfying read at all. And I know what you're thinking - You're not supposed to judge a book by its cover blah, blah, blah. But I always thought that was in reference to covers that may not live up to the gloriousness of the words inside, not because they're just plain inaccurate.
2 Stars ★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Naturally, you'll recall the scene in Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey where Bill and Ted, after being killed by evil android versions of themselves, end up in Hell, which simply does not meet their hellish expectations after the depictions of it they've seen previously on the covers of their hard rock albums. Which leaves them with a profound sense of deception.
Just so:
Well, that's kind of how I feel about LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON. I feel lied to by the cover. You see, it makes you expect certain things. For example, please see Exhibit A. A sword. Now, forgive me, but if it's on the cover, it should be in the book somewhere, right? Mentioning the lead character has a sword on display over his fireplace is not sufficient. I want the sword-wielding warrior from the cover, please. Instead, Stephen MacAlasdair was a refined, well-to-do gentleman with perfect tea-drinking etiquette. There wasn't even the barest hint of rugged warriorness to his character.
Then we have Exhibit B. A kilt. There was no wearing, or mention of, a single kilt in this book. To even have the word "Highland" on the cover, and then have him be more English than Scottish, in waistcoat and trousers and living in London, was just an affront. He had the barest hint of a Scottish accent, but otherwise seemed like any other English toff. As a big reader of Highland romances, this meant I missed out on a lot of what I love about the genre - clan life and the colourful characters usually associated with it, for one. So this was yet another disappointment.
And finally, Exhibit C. The biggest lie of all. Now where do you suppose this book is set? Well, let's refer to the cover. Now, where could that be...The wilds of Scotland? Some remote, picturesque Scottish isle, perhaps?
WRONG! It's set in smoggy, foggy, stuffy and uptight Victorian England. It's much more in the vein of a regency style historical mystery than the Scottish Romance it seems to so blatantly offer. This has to be by far the most misleading aspect of the whole thing, and I am now officially wearing my unhappy face.
And the thing is, none of these things actually affect the quality of the story, and, indeed, it was a pleasant enough book with decent characters, if a bit flat and reserved. BUT IT WASN'T WHAT IT PROMISED TO BE! That's my gripe, and one I can't seem to get past. That, and that the climactic ending was very rushed. Seeming to both start and finish within the last 5% of the book.
So, all together, not a particularly satisfying read at all. And I know what you're thinking - You're not supposed to judge a book by its cover blah, blah, blah. But I always thought that was in reference to covers that may not live up to the gloriousness of the words inside, not because they're just plain inaccurate.
2 Stars ★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2025
Mina Seymour is a modernized woman for 1894. Being a secretary to a forward thinking professor has allotted Mina great opportunities someone in her social class normally wouldn't dream of reaching. But her life is about to change when an obstinate Scotsman waltzes into her office.
Stephen MacAlasdair is the family heir to the Scotland MacAlasdairs, he is also a dragon shifter. Needing to take over the reins of his family after his father's passing, he must confront an old enemy that has become trained in the magical arts. He never expected to meet the spit fire Mina Seymour.
Sparks seem to fly every time Mina and Stephen come together.
Isabel Cooper writes a mesmerizing tale with dragons and highlanders but she doesn't stop there. She adds a marvelously strong and dynamic feminine lead in Mina, who faces everything that comes her way with poise and strength.
The slow building friendship and smoldering attraction was captivating. The plot was entertaining and original. This story is a mix of historical fiction, dark fantasy with a strong hint of paranormal (all my favorites wrapped up in a wonderful package). I utterly enjoyed Legend of the Highland Dragon.
I received this ARC copy of Legend of the Highland Dragon from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication December 3, 2013.
Stephen MacAlasdair is the family heir to the Scotland MacAlasdairs, he is also a dragon shifter. Needing to take over the reins of his family after his father's passing, he must confront an old enemy that has become trained in the magical arts. He never expected to meet the spit fire Mina Seymour.
Sparks seem to fly every time Mina and Stephen come together.
Isabel Cooper writes a mesmerizing tale with dragons and highlanders but she doesn't stop there. She adds a marvelously strong and dynamic feminine lead in Mina, who faces everything that comes her way with poise and strength.
The slow building friendship and smoldering attraction was captivating. The plot was entertaining and original. This story is a mix of historical fiction, dark fantasy with a strong hint of paranormal (all my favorites wrapped up in a wonderful package). I utterly enjoyed Legend of the Highland Dragon.
I received this ARC copy of Legend of the Highland Dragon from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for an honest review. This book is set for publication December 3, 2013.
February 7, 2017
1.5 stars
May 5, 2015
I never thought I would get into reading a book about dragon shifters, until I started this book. I bought it because I had agreed to review the third book in this series, and wasn’t sure if they were stand alone books or not. Turns out this book could stand alone, although the second one features a character from this one. Also, turns out that I liked it enough that I want to read the second one.
London at the end of the 1800’s is not exactly conductive to a young woman finding a good job. Mina grew up near the East End of London-which is pretty much the slums. Her family is poor but makes do, more then most. She is working for a professor scholar as a secretary when Lord Stephen MacAlasdair, walks in the door. She manages to get sucked into his, and the professor’s problems, one of which is deadly. Because she sees Stephen in his dragon form one night(while she is being attacked) and because of the dangerous problem he is trying to take care of, he can’t let her leave his house. Truly scandalous for that era. He offers her what amounts to four years salary to stay as his secretary, she just can’t leave because of the danger involved.
Mina was a good character. I wasn’t sure at the beginning that I would like her, because to be honest I first thought she was too nosy for her own good, and pretty brazen. Before the book was over, I was totally won over by her. Smart, capable, extremely brave, fiercely loyal, and ambitious for a better life, were all ways to describe her as the book went on. Stephen is a couple of centuries old, super handsome, truly dislikes being in London as his home is in Scotland, and he definitely has never met anyone like Mina in all those years. It’s not long before he is spending way more time with Mina then is necessary. Of course it helps that they are in the middle of trying to find a murderer-one that is out to kill Stephen, the professor, and the further the story goes, even Mina.
This story is full of mystery, demons, a horrible villain that uses equally horrible magic, and of course a romance. And as far as romances go, it was pretty great actually. I enjoy a slow burn romance a lot more then love at first sight, so this didn’t disappoint. While this wasn’t a bodice ripper, there is plenty of sexual chemistry, and there is a sweet(and actually fairly hot) scene of a sexual nature, so I would consider it an adult read. The pace fit the time period, not super fast, but with enough action that it kept me engaged throughout. I thought it was well written, and I completely enjoyed the whole thing. (RabidReads.com)
London at the end of the 1800’s is not exactly conductive to a young woman finding a good job. Mina grew up near the East End of London-which is pretty much the slums. Her family is poor but makes do, more then most. She is working for a professor scholar as a secretary when Lord Stephen MacAlasdair, walks in the door. She manages to get sucked into his, and the professor’s problems, one of which is deadly. Because she sees Stephen in his dragon form one night(while she is being attacked) and because of the dangerous problem he is trying to take care of, he can’t let her leave his house. Truly scandalous for that era. He offers her what amounts to four years salary to stay as his secretary, she just can’t leave because of the danger involved.
Mina was a good character. I wasn’t sure at the beginning that I would like her, because to be honest I first thought she was too nosy for her own good, and pretty brazen. Before the book was over, I was totally won over by her. Smart, capable, extremely brave, fiercely loyal, and ambitious for a better life, were all ways to describe her as the book went on. Stephen is a couple of centuries old, super handsome, truly dislikes being in London as his home is in Scotland, and he definitely has never met anyone like Mina in all those years. It’s not long before he is spending way more time with Mina then is necessary. Of course it helps that they are in the middle of trying to find a murderer-one that is out to kill Stephen, the professor, and the further the story goes, even Mina.
This story is full of mystery, demons, a horrible villain that uses equally horrible magic, and of course a romance. And as far as romances go, it was pretty great actually. I enjoy a slow burn romance a lot more then love at first sight, so this didn’t disappoint. While this wasn’t a bodice ripper, there is plenty of sexual chemistry, and there is a sweet(and actually fairly hot) scene of a sexual nature, so I would consider it an adult read. The pace fit the time period, not super fast, but with enough action that it kept me engaged throughout. I thought it was well written, and I completely enjoyed the whole thing. (RabidReads.com)
September 19, 2020
I'm glad I didn't completely judge this book by it's cover or else I would have been sorely disappointed. The cover (and the title) gives the impression that this is going to be about a kilt wearing highlander. It's not.
The book takes place in Victorian England. Yes, our hero is a dragon shifter, and yes he is a highlander, but we do not travel to the wilds of Scotland in this story.
What lies between the covers was actually pretty good. I love my heroines smart and strong minded, and that is exactly what we got here. She was inquisitive, which is how she found herself mixed up in this mess, but I think that also made her more open-minded than anyone else would have been.
Mina challenged Stephen in all ways, and that is exactly the type of woman he needed.
The book takes place in Victorian England. Yes, our hero is a dragon shifter, and yes he is a highlander, but we do not travel to the wilds of Scotland in this story.
What lies between the covers was actually pretty good. I love my heroines smart and strong minded, and that is exactly what we got here. She was inquisitive, which is how she found herself mixed up in this mess, but I think that also made her more open-minded than anyone else would have been.
Mina challenged Stephen in all ways, and that is exactly the type of woman he needed.
October 21, 2018
Mostly entertaining au with magic & dragon shifters ... terrible ending, heavy on the eye roll.
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November 21, 2013
Originally Reviewed For: Tea and Book
Legend of the Highland Dragon takes place in Victorian England. An interesting time in history when industrialization was really getting started and everyone wanted to emulate Victoria. Women wore trains (all the time!!) even the maids.. lol can you imagine cleaning a house with a train? But there was more going on than dubious fashion styles. Women were truly finding their voice.
Isabel Cooper tells a delightful tale that makes one think of steampunk England but doesn't quite follow that genre. More of a Wuthering Heights meets Sherlock Holmes (the Robert Downey Jr version). A place where mysticism meets reality.. In an era where there was a mystic on every corner why wouldn't there be a Dragon in the attic?
Mina Seymour has worked to better herself. To become more than just another statistic on London's East Side. She went to school and learned how to be a secretary and now has a fine job with a professor, typing up his notes and living vicariously through some of his stories. As any good secretary does, she guards his door religiously. So when Stephen McAlisdair stops by claiming to be an old friend, she is dubious at best. Because it's her nation to question and she does some amateur sleuthing and discovers that there really is something hiding in Laird McAlisdair's attack.. and when the monsters come to play, she is thrilled to have a dragon on her side!
Stephen McAlisdair is a dragon, he was born a dragon will always be a dragon but a few decades ago an interesting artifact changed his chemistry just a bit.. now he must transform every night at dusk for about two hours.. no matter what. Makes for living in the city rather difficult. Add to the fact that an enemy from that same archaeological trip is after him and life is just getting interesting. So how is he supposed to protect a nosy woman who thinks she can take on the world with a poker?
I really enjoyed this book.. There was just something about it that captivated me. Stephen is a confident secure man and Mina, well she wipes the floor with the lot of them. This woman has fought hard to become an independent woman in an era where independent women are not all that common. But more than that she gets it. She knows that yes, she is the human in the mix, but she also has skills and talents that your average Laird/dragon doesn't. Mostly she understands human nature..
Stephen and Mina make a striking investigative team and as they give into their desires they become more than just a working duo. But species specifics cause some issues and even can figure those out.. There is still an enemy to fight!
Like I said I really enjoyed this book. Ms Cooper writes a really good story.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Legend of the Highland Dragon provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on December 3, 2013
Legend of the Highland Dragon takes place in Victorian England. An interesting time in history when industrialization was really getting started and everyone wanted to emulate Victoria. Women wore trains (all the time!!) even the maids.. lol can you imagine cleaning a house with a train? But there was more going on than dubious fashion styles. Women were truly finding their voice.
Isabel Cooper tells a delightful tale that makes one think of steampunk England but doesn't quite follow that genre. More of a Wuthering Heights meets Sherlock Holmes (the Robert Downey Jr version). A place where mysticism meets reality.. In an era where there was a mystic on every corner why wouldn't there be a Dragon in the attic?
Mina Seymour has worked to better herself. To become more than just another statistic on London's East Side. She went to school and learned how to be a secretary and now has a fine job with a professor, typing up his notes and living vicariously through some of his stories. As any good secretary does, she guards his door religiously. So when Stephen McAlisdair stops by claiming to be an old friend, she is dubious at best. Because it's her nation to question and she does some amateur sleuthing and discovers that there really is something hiding in Laird McAlisdair's attack.. and when the monsters come to play, she is thrilled to have a dragon on her side!
Stephen McAlisdair is a dragon, he was born a dragon will always be a dragon but a few decades ago an interesting artifact changed his chemistry just a bit.. now he must transform every night at dusk for about two hours.. no matter what. Makes for living in the city rather difficult. Add to the fact that an enemy from that same archaeological trip is after him and life is just getting interesting. So how is he supposed to protect a nosy woman who thinks she can take on the world with a poker?
I really enjoyed this book.. There was just something about it that captivated me. Stephen is a confident secure man and Mina, well she wipes the floor with the lot of them. This woman has fought hard to become an independent woman in an era where independent women are not all that common. But more than that she gets it. She knows that yes, she is the human in the mix, but she also has skills and talents that your average Laird/dragon doesn't. Mostly she understands human nature..
Stephen and Mina make a striking investigative team and as they give into their desires they become more than just a working duo. But species specifics cause some issues and even can figure those out.. There is still an enemy to fight!
Like I said I really enjoyed this book. Ms Cooper writes a really good story.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Legend of the Highland Dragon provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on December 3, 2013
November 25, 2013
Braine's Talk Supe review
I love the premise of LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON after all, we're talking about Dragons here! Every fantasy reader has a certain love affair with these mythical reptiles and I'm infatuated with them. Stephen as a Dragon didn't disappoint, the letdown for me lies on the world building or lack thereof. You have Dragons and magic at the forefront here and I was hoping that ICooper's version of Victorian England would be as big and magical as her creature of choice. It was too ordinary IMO and lacked the vibrancy of a world where Dragons exists.
There's a short list of things that I wish this book had but it doesn't mean this was bad. LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON set the stage for future books and I can only assume that it will only gain momentum from this point. I may not have been blown away by LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON but it doesn't mean that I'm deterred from continuing with the series. There are just some things things that didn't work for me and I'm hoping you'll find more satisfaction with it than I did.
I love the premise of LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON after all, we're talking about Dragons here! Every fantasy reader has a certain love affair with these mythical reptiles and I'm infatuated with them. Stephen as a Dragon didn't disappoint, the letdown for me lies on the world building or lack thereof. You have Dragons and magic at the forefront here and I was hoping that ICooper's version of Victorian England would be as big and magical as her creature of choice. It was too ordinary IMO and lacked the vibrancy of a world where Dragons exists.
There's a short list of things that I wish this book had but it doesn't mean this was bad. LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON set the stage for future books and I can only assume that it will only gain momentum from this point. I may not have been blown away by LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND DRAGON but it doesn't mean that I'm deterred from continuing with the series. There are just some things things that didn't work for me and I'm hoping you'll find more satisfaction with it than I did.
July 11, 2021
3.5
This was an okay paranormal romance, nothing wrong with it but not remarkable in any way. I like the historical/paranormal aspect but Mina took him being a dragon too much in stride lol like she didn’t even freak out a little bit 🤣
Pop Culture Readathon Prompt: Ginger Snaps (Read a Shifter Book)
This was an okay paranormal romance, nothing wrong with it but not remarkable in any way. I like the historical/paranormal aspect but Mina took him being a dragon too much in stride lol like she didn’t even freak out a little bit 🤣
Pop Culture Readathon Prompt: Ginger Snaps (Read a Shifter Book)
November 2, 2013
Legend of the Highland Dragon is a great read for any fans of the genre that enjoy or are looking for some to read that's a bit slow paced, romantic, original, magical and has a wonderful HEA. A 3.5 rounded to a 4 rating.
Mina is an independent woman that has worked very hard to be get to where she currently is while hiding where she truly comes from. All is well and good until the day a dark stranger walks into her workplace and brings forth unbelievable curiosity. A curiosity she cannot ignore!
Stephen holds many secrets. Each one very guarded and cherished. He takes many precautions to prevent others from finding out who/what he really is and what else is out there. But when an old enemy resurfaces, it becomes virtually impossible to keep certain things hidden from all. Then there's the fact that a human woman brings forth unnatural feelings within him. Feelings he has never thought himself capable of having.
This is my first time reading anything from Isabel Cooper and I enjoyed it. Actually I hope she decides to write a story for Stephen's brother. I'd LOVE to read that!
Mina is an independent woman that has worked very hard to be get to where she currently is while hiding where she truly comes from. All is well and good until the day a dark stranger walks into her workplace and brings forth unbelievable curiosity. A curiosity she cannot ignore!
Stephen holds many secrets. Each one very guarded and cherished. He takes many precautions to prevent others from finding out who/what he really is and what else is out there. But when an old enemy resurfaces, it becomes virtually impossible to keep certain things hidden from all. Then there's the fact that a human woman brings forth unnatural feelings within him. Feelings he has never thought himself capable of having.
This is my first time reading anything from Isabel Cooper and I enjoyed it. Actually I hope she decides to write a story for Stephen's brother. I'd LOVE to read that!
December 5, 2013
Cooper's paranormal dragon and East-End gal romance is tolerably okay. It is well-written and witty in places. However, it did not move me, or keep me riveted to the pages. Despite the dragons and the malevolent blobs and the hand-rubbing villainy, it falls a little flat. Read it for the excellent writing, but your pulse won't race. The romance is also tepid. If you'd like to read a more detailed review, please follow the link:
http://missbatesreadsromance.com/2013...
I am grateful to Sourcebooks for an e-ARC, via Netgalley, in exchange for these honest reviews.
http://missbatesreadsromance.com/2013...
I am grateful to Sourcebooks for an e-ARC, via Netgalley, in exchange for these honest reviews.
October 13, 2013
Just read an ARC -- absolutely fabulous!
September 28, 2019
Meh. It was ok.
March 27, 2020
Wasn't sure what to expect from dragon shifters, not being a big shifter fan, but I loved this book. Lots of magical action-adventure, and Stephen was a fantastic hero. I also loved Mina's spunky attitude. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
July 31, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablance
Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Rating: 5 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
The MacAlasdairs are not like other men.
Descendants of an ancient alliance, they live for centuries, shifting between human and dragon forms. Some wander the earth; some keep to their lands in Scotland. And Stephen MacAlasdair, the newest lord of the family, must go to London to settle his father’s business affairs. He brings an object of great power and greater darkness. He finds an enemy from his past, whose wrath is still living and deadly. And he meets an ally he’d never have expected.
1894 London, doesn't provide an easy life for women of the lower class, but Mina Seymour has managed to work herself up to a position as the secretary of a famous scholar. When a tall, dark Scottish stranger demands to see her employer, Mina is irritated; when MacAlasdair's departure leaves the professor worried, she’s suspicious. Determined to figure out the situation, she investigates further - and finds a world and a man she could never have imagined.
What I Liked:
Another awesome historical romance novel! But this one was slightly different - it involved fantasy elements! You all KNOW how much I love my fantasy. Historical fantasy (specifically, medieval fantasy) is my favorite genre, so I knew that when I downloaded this book, I'd most likely enjoy it. Historic London + ancient dragon shapeshifters = good deal, right?
TOTALLY RIGHT! I can't even begin to describe how much this book clicked for me. For one, it was thoroughly engaging. I was never really bored, and I followed the story easily. I finished this book rather quickly, even though it isn't short. THAT'S how engaging it is - you *want* to keep reading. I read it in two sittings, and it was two instead of one, because I ate dinner in between.
But anyway. This book begins with Stephen demanding to see Professor Carter, Mina's employer. Mina, the ever-loyal secretary, doesn't like Stephen's attitude. Stephen's behavior makes Mina suspicious, and she goes to his house to investigate (via his house staff) if he is usually so abrasive and demanding. She sees too much when she goes there. And thus begins our story.
Stephen is an immortal - more specifically, a dragon. Because Mina saw him, and other things, she has to stay with him, under his employment as his secretary. The two of them begin to work together to find the man (Ward) that is behind the attack that night (that Mina saw Stephen as a dragon). Sounds intriguing, right? I definitely thought so.
The plot moves quickly. Many small events occur, event after event. It doesn't seem like much is happening, because not many large events happen, but the small events make the plot go by quickly. There is the plot that involves finding Ward, the enemy of Stephen, and there is also the romance, of course. The romance is definitely secondary in this novel, but oh do we know it's there.
I kind of like how Cooper constructed the romance's plot. It's very subtle, so in the first half of the book, you probably wouldn't even think that this book had any romance to it. The chemistry and attraction are definitely there, and we know it, but it isn't ALL that the book is about. That's not all that Mina and Stephen think about - each other, sex, etc. I mean, when they DO think about things, and when things DO happen... well, then you *know* it's a romance novel. But Cooper keeps the steamy scenes down to a minimum, but they are very steamy. There just aren't as many, in comparison to historical romance novels.
Ahh, I love this book! The historical aspect and the fantasy aspect sold me, but the plot and the romance were so amazing. I cannot get enough of stories that involve dragons! And in a romance novel? Turn up the heat! Pun intended. *winks*
What I Did Not Like:
I know, I know, no book is perfect. But I really have nothing to say in this section. I love love love this book! I'll let you know if I think of anything later.
But most likely, I won't. Think of anything, that is.
Would I Recommend It:
YES!!! Historical romance + fantasy = AMAZING combination. My favorite for adult novels, by far. A wonderful job, Ms. Cooper! I am so impressed!
Rating:
5 stars. Very well deserved! I'm so glad I read this one - it was exactly what I needed to read.
Legend of the Highland Dragon by Isabel Cooper
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablance
Publication Date: December 3, 2013
Rating: 5 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***
Summary (from Goodreads):
The MacAlasdairs are not like other men.
Descendants of an ancient alliance, they live for centuries, shifting between human and dragon forms. Some wander the earth; some keep to their lands in Scotland. And Stephen MacAlasdair, the newest lord of the family, must go to London to settle his father’s business affairs. He brings an object of great power and greater darkness. He finds an enemy from his past, whose wrath is still living and deadly. And he meets an ally he’d never have expected.
1894 London, doesn't provide an easy life for women of the lower class, but Mina Seymour has managed to work herself up to a position as the secretary of a famous scholar. When a tall, dark Scottish stranger demands to see her employer, Mina is irritated; when MacAlasdair's departure leaves the professor worried, she’s suspicious. Determined to figure out the situation, she investigates further - and finds a world and a man she could never have imagined.
What I Liked:
Another awesome historical romance novel! But this one was slightly different - it involved fantasy elements! You all KNOW how much I love my fantasy. Historical fantasy (specifically, medieval fantasy) is my favorite genre, so I knew that when I downloaded this book, I'd most likely enjoy it. Historic London + ancient dragon shapeshifters = good deal, right?
TOTALLY RIGHT! I can't even begin to describe how much this book clicked for me. For one, it was thoroughly engaging. I was never really bored, and I followed the story easily. I finished this book rather quickly, even though it isn't short. THAT'S how engaging it is - you *want* to keep reading. I read it in two sittings, and it was two instead of one, because I ate dinner in between.
But anyway. This book begins with Stephen demanding to see Professor Carter, Mina's employer. Mina, the ever-loyal secretary, doesn't like Stephen's attitude. Stephen's behavior makes Mina suspicious, and she goes to his house to investigate (via his house staff) if he is usually so abrasive and demanding. She sees too much when she goes there. And thus begins our story.
Stephen is an immortal - more specifically, a dragon. Because Mina saw him, and other things, she has to stay with him, under his employment as his secretary. The two of them begin to work together to find the man (Ward) that is behind the attack that night (that Mina saw Stephen as a dragon). Sounds intriguing, right? I definitely thought so.
The plot moves quickly. Many small events occur, event after event. It doesn't seem like much is happening, because not many large events happen, but the small events make the plot go by quickly. There is the plot that involves finding Ward, the enemy of Stephen, and there is also the romance, of course. The romance is definitely secondary in this novel, but oh do we know it's there.
I kind of like how Cooper constructed the romance's plot. It's very subtle, so in the first half of the book, you probably wouldn't even think that this book had any romance to it. The chemistry and attraction are definitely there, and we know it, but it isn't ALL that the book is about. That's not all that Mina and Stephen think about - each other, sex, etc. I mean, when they DO think about things, and when things DO happen... well, then you *know* it's a romance novel. But Cooper keeps the steamy scenes down to a minimum, but they are very steamy. There just aren't as many, in comparison to historical romance novels.
Ahh, I love this book! The historical aspect and the fantasy aspect sold me, but the plot and the romance were so amazing. I cannot get enough of stories that involve dragons! And in a romance novel? Turn up the heat! Pun intended. *winks*
What I Did Not Like:
I know, I know, no book is perfect. But I really have nothing to say in this section. I love love love this book! I'll let you know if I think of anything later.
But most likely, I won't. Think of anything, that is.
Would I Recommend It:
YES!!! Historical romance + fantasy = AMAZING combination. My favorite for adult novels, by far. A wonderful job, Ms. Cooper! I am so impressed!
Rating:
5 stars. Very well deserved! I'm so glad I read this one - it was exactly what I needed to read.
May 30, 2014
Originally Posted On Addicted To Romance
Mina has spent her whole life, trying to put food on the table and having been born a member of the lower class, she knows her life will be full of strife and hardship. Her only support is her family. Working as a personal secretary to a well known scholar, she bumps into Laird MacAlasdair. Mina becomes suspicious of MacAlasdair and when she goes searching for answers, she ends up face to face with a real life dragon. Stephen is the laird and leader of his people. He has a deceptive enemy, and must find him before he destroys all the hard work he has put in to protect his people. As dragon shifter, he has to keep his identity a secret, even if that means holding a certain attractive woman at his home. But when the danger escalates, and Mina and Stephen begin to form a bond to one another. Will Stephen be able to protect Mina from a enemy that could easily destroy her
The Legend of the Highland Dragon is the first book of this new series by Isabel Cooper. When you combine my two favorite sub genres and mix them with some solid romance, you sell me immediately. This story is a combination of paranormal and historical romance. However I did feel like the romance level could have been higher. It had many aspects that made a highly enjoyable story, but I felt like the focus on the relationship between Stephen and Mina was a bit less than you would expect from a story like this. Now with that said, let us move on to the more delightful and positive elements of the story I really enjoyed. The characters in this story were such fun and very adaptable to new situations and I loved both the hero and heroine, and even some sub characters adds a fun spice to the story. I really felt like Stephen and Mina were pretty well constructed. Stephen is your typical alpha male, but he does have some beta in his personality, which I felt like overall was a good balance for his character. Mina is not your typical heroine of this regency era. Being a member of the lower class, you would think she would be a bit less bold and daring...but no, she just has to know the answers to every little mystery. She learns the truth about Stephen pretty early in the story and I loved how she doesn't fight the truth. She adapts to her situation and the danger pretty well, and she isn't afraid of defending herself. She does some fighting spirit and she interacts pretty well with Stephen and his brother. Not some side characters I fell in love with: one of the house maids, was sweet and when they get attacked early on in the story, she fights alongside with Mina and I really loved the idea of this young girl's courage against a enemy you can't fight unless your a dragon...however it doesn't stop them from trying!! Now Stephen's brother Colin...was delightful, a rogue and so funny to watch him tease his brother and I loved their relationship. I felt like bringing in Colin's character really lifted up the plot and added a sense of playfulness to the story.
The Villain in the story is pretty formidable, and this is where you see a strong magical element enter into the plot. Wade is definitely is the type of enemy you want to destroy, and he is pretty bad. So much so that you wonder how Stephen and Colin are going to defeat him. The bad guy in the story really adds a dangerous element to the plot, I guarantee you will be at the edge of the seat once the danger starts to really threaten Stephen and Mina. I felt like this story was so different from what I expected, but it turned out to be packed with such depth and much more magical elements than I expected. There is such a paranormal edge to the story you almost forget the time period that this story takes place. We also see a more intense focus on the relationship between Stephen and Mina toward the later half of the story, a immortal creature and a mortal woman, how will they make it work right? I did feel that the ending wasn't what I expected, I kinda felt a little disappointed, because I felt like it didn't completely tie off all the loose ends, maybe we will see more of them in the next book (which is Colin's Story-so excited)
Overall a entertaining romance, with a paranormal edge, sexy dragons, fighter of a heroine, and some delectable moments to leave you thirsty for more.
Mina has spent her whole life, trying to put food on the table and having been born a member of the lower class, she knows her life will be full of strife and hardship. Her only support is her family. Working as a personal secretary to a well known scholar, she bumps into Laird MacAlasdair. Mina becomes suspicious of MacAlasdair and when she goes searching for answers, she ends up face to face with a real life dragon. Stephen is the laird and leader of his people. He has a deceptive enemy, and must find him before he destroys all the hard work he has put in to protect his people. As dragon shifter, he has to keep his identity a secret, even if that means holding a certain attractive woman at his home. But when the danger escalates, and Mina and Stephen begin to form a bond to one another. Will Stephen be able to protect Mina from a enemy that could easily destroy her
The Legend of the Highland Dragon is the first book of this new series by Isabel Cooper. When you combine my two favorite sub genres and mix them with some solid romance, you sell me immediately. This story is a combination of paranormal and historical romance. However I did feel like the romance level could have been higher. It had many aspects that made a highly enjoyable story, but I felt like the focus on the relationship between Stephen and Mina was a bit less than you would expect from a story like this. Now with that said, let us move on to the more delightful and positive elements of the story I really enjoyed. The characters in this story were such fun and very adaptable to new situations and I loved both the hero and heroine, and even some sub characters adds a fun spice to the story. I really felt like Stephen and Mina were pretty well constructed. Stephen is your typical alpha male, but he does have some beta in his personality, which I felt like overall was a good balance for his character. Mina is not your typical heroine of this regency era. Being a member of the lower class, you would think she would be a bit less bold and daring...but no, she just has to know the answers to every little mystery. She learns the truth about Stephen pretty early in the story and I loved how she doesn't fight the truth. She adapts to her situation and the danger pretty well, and she isn't afraid of defending herself. She does some fighting spirit and she interacts pretty well with Stephen and his brother. Not some side characters I fell in love with: one of the house maids, was sweet and when they get attacked early on in the story, she fights alongside with Mina and I really loved the idea of this young girl's courage against a enemy you can't fight unless your a dragon...however it doesn't stop them from trying!! Now Stephen's brother Colin...was delightful, a rogue and so funny to watch him tease his brother and I loved their relationship. I felt like bringing in Colin's character really lifted up the plot and added a sense of playfulness to the story.
The Villain in the story is pretty formidable, and this is where you see a strong magical element enter into the plot. Wade is definitely is the type of enemy you want to destroy, and he is pretty bad. So much so that you wonder how Stephen and Colin are going to defeat him. The bad guy in the story really adds a dangerous element to the plot, I guarantee you will be at the edge of the seat once the danger starts to really threaten Stephen and Mina. I felt like this story was so different from what I expected, but it turned out to be packed with such depth and much more magical elements than I expected. There is such a paranormal edge to the story you almost forget the time period that this story takes place. We also see a more intense focus on the relationship between Stephen and Mina toward the later half of the story, a immortal creature and a mortal woman, how will they make it work right? I did feel that the ending wasn't what I expected, I kinda felt a little disappointed, because I felt like it didn't completely tie off all the loose ends, maybe we will see more of them in the next book (which is Colin's Story-so excited)
Overall a entertaining romance, with a paranormal edge, sexy dragons, fighter of a heroine, and some delectable moments to leave you thirsty for more.
November 17, 2014
There are certain words that are bound to grab my attention. 'Highland' and 'Dragon' are two of them and they were in the same title so...yeah, forgone conclusion that I was going to grab this one up for my reading pleasure. This was the first of a historical paranormal romance series and as such there was a deal of set up and introduction work going on. I enjoyed the story from all the paranormal races brought to life in Victorian London to the build up of suspense as a vengeful villain sought to harm the good guy dragon, but I wasn't necessarily wowed by it when all was said and done.
Before I go much further, must address the cover. I focused in on the title for my part when I was choosing this one, but I want to give fair warning to all those who make reading decisions based on cover. Cover doesn't match the story. Yes, Laird Stephen MacAlisdair is a highlander and yes there is a sword, but the story is set entirely in London and the sword stays firmly hooked to the wall above the mantle. Just wanted to put that out there for those looking for a sword-wielding highlander in the highlands.
Story starts with Mina getting suspicious of one of her employer's guests after her employer shows signs of fear. Her intrepid nosiness is rewarded by landing her in a heap of trouble involving a larger than life red dragon, shadow creatures, a vengeful human who wields magic and an autocratic Scotsman. Mina has raised herself up from her humble beginnings and has no intentions of letting her new situation intimidate or cower her. She learns the eye-widening lesson that there is more in the world than humans as she resides under the protection of an actual dragon who is the laird of a clan of dragons. Together they work to stop a man who doesn't care about human life and has made it his mission to get back at the men who stopped him once before. Now, if she struggles to control her attraction to Stephen MacAlisdair, just the reminder that she is human and a commoner and he is neither, keeps things realistic for her.
Stephen was none too pleased when a bristling, stubborn, loyal and brave human woman stumbles into his life and his secrets. She juts out that chin, whips out his fire poker and thinks she's brave enough to take on the supernatural nasties of London or at least she is willing to try. After a while, he comes to trust her judgement and respect her strong nature. When they complete their task of locating his enemy, he wonders what his life will be like without her in it.
This was one of those stories that had many things I liked which allowed me to enjoy the story, but there were things that left me less than satisfied too. The romance was just meh for me and I can't really put the finger on why other than I wasn't into the characters maybe. There was a nice build up where they first learned to respect each other and they gave into attraction a few times and I even liked them together, but all that being said, I was just mildly interested.
The action part of the plot was great until the last scene left me wanting more after the villain was built up as this big baddie. Not to say that it didn't get real exciting there, but just that it was a wink and a blink affair.
As to the characters, I was a bit taken aback when this one opened. Mina was just so gung-ho into affairs that were not her own and then got all up in Stephen's grill because he was none to thrilled about her interference. She's a self-made woman and trust me, that has all my respect, but she was a bit of a reverse snob about it and oversensitive as a result. It was the whole demand respect instead of earn it thing. She had a bit of the 'I'm right; you're wrong na na na boo boo' thing going too. And she was right, but many times she was just lucky too. Now while, Mina's character sort of hits you in the face with her personality, Stephen's is much more laid back and neutral. He takes his responsibilities and duties seriously, he is sensible in the face of other people's expertise, but he doesn't ooze power and personality.
So, it was a slow-building story with a mild romance set against a paranormal Victorian world. I enjoyed when Stephen was the dragon and want to read his brother's story. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy the blend of the historical and paranormal romance with a romance that is more sweet than spicy and a plot with some good action sequences sprinkled throughout.
Before I go much further, must address the cover. I focused in on the title for my part when I was choosing this one, but I want to give fair warning to all those who make reading decisions based on cover. Cover doesn't match the story. Yes, Laird Stephen MacAlisdair is a highlander and yes there is a sword, but the story is set entirely in London and the sword stays firmly hooked to the wall above the mantle. Just wanted to put that out there for those looking for a sword-wielding highlander in the highlands.
Story starts with Mina getting suspicious of one of her employer's guests after her employer shows signs of fear. Her intrepid nosiness is rewarded by landing her in a heap of trouble involving a larger than life red dragon, shadow creatures, a vengeful human who wields magic and an autocratic Scotsman. Mina has raised herself up from her humble beginnings and has no intentions of letting her new situation intimidate or cower her. She learns the eye-widening lesson that there is more in the world than humans as she resides under the protection of an actual dragon who is the laird of a clan of dragons. Together they work to stop a man who doesn't care about human life and has made it his mission to get back at the men who stopped him once before. Now, if she struggles to control her attraction to Stephen MacAlisdair, just the reminder that she is human and a commoner and he is neither, keeps things realistic for her.
Stephen was none too pleased when a bristling, stubborn, loyal and brave human woman stumbles into his life and his secrets. She juts out that chin, whips out his fire poker and thinks she's brave enough to take on the supernatural nasties of London or at least she is willing to try. After a while, he comes to trust her judgement and respect her strong nature. When they complete their task of locating his enemy, he wonders what his life will be like without her in it.
This was one of those stories that had many things I liked which allowed me to enjoy the story, but there were things that left me less than satisfied too. The romance was just meh for me and I can't really put the finger on why other than I wasn't into the characters maybe. There was a nice build up where they first learned to respect each other and they gave into attraction a few times and I even liked them together, but all that being said, I was just mildly interested.
The action part of the plot was great until the last scene left me wanting more after the villain was built up as this big baddie. Not to say that it didn't get real exciting there, but just that it was a wink and a blink affair.
As to the characters, I was a bit taken aback when this one opened. Mina was just so gung-ho into affairs that were not her own and then got all up in Stephen's grill because he was none to thrilled about her interference. She's a self-made woman and trust me, that has all my respect, but she was a bit of a reverse snob about it and oversensitive as a result. It was the whole demand respect instead of earn it thing. She had a bit of the 'I'm right; you're wrong na na na boo boo' thing going too. And she was right, but many times she was just lucky too. Now while, Mina's character sort of hits you in the face with her personality, Stephen's is much more laid back and neutral. He takes his responsibilities and duties seriously, he is sensible in the face of other people's expertise, but he doesn't ooze power and personality.
So, it was a slow-building story with a mild romance set against a paranormal Victorian world. I enjoyed when Stephen was the dragon and want to read his brother's story. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy the blend of the historical and paranormal romance with a romance that is more sweet than spicy and a plot with some good action sequences sprinkled throughout.
December 3, 2013
Available today!
Happy Release Day!
This book starts out with a bang. Mina, as the blurb states, is worried about her employer. She decides to take tea with Lord MacAlasdair's housekeeper. When some hideous things break up the tea party, Mina sees something that that just can't be . . . a dragon!
I'm quite fond of dragons, and I think one of the best parts of this book was when we got to be in the dragon's mind. He's so elemental. He knows what he wants. Now, if only Stephen could come to terms with that!
Mina is a strong, intelligent woman, and I enjoyed seeing her and Stephen working together to solve the mystery of who the bad guy is, and how to rid themselves of him. Stephen keeps being surprised at how bright Mina is, but then he comes to depend upon that quality in her. Yes, very enjoyable.
I had two "quibbles" with this book. Stephen was sure that none of his ancestors would have written anything clear about the nature of dragons in any of the journals that reside in his library. That's the library where Mina keeps herself busy as she waits for them to find the bad guy. Yet, she finds several such deatails in the writings there. Maybe Stephen just didn't realize?
The second thing that rather bothered me: Their UST is building to a huge explosion. Very nicely done, too. But then...the culmination comes on a floor, in a mouldy old building where Mina didn't even want to touch the walls! I had a hard time getting into the steamy moment when all I could think about was the fact that a rat could join them at any time.
I'm hoping that we get to see Colin, Stephen's brother, as the lead in a future book. He was quite funny and charming. Maybe the lady doctor would be a good match for him. I'd also like to see Mina flying with Stephen. Yes, I would!
This is my first Isabel Cooper book, but it won't be my last.
*Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks, for the opportunity to read Legend of the Highland Dragon.
Publication Date:
December 3, 2013
You can pre-order it now!
Happy Release Day!
This book starts out with a bang. Mina, as the blurb states, is worried about her employer. She decides to take tea with Lord MacAlasdair's housekeeper. When some hideous things break up the tea party, Mina sees something that that just can't be . . . a dragon!
I'm quite fond of dragons, and I think one of the best parts of this book was when we got to be in the dragon's mind. He's so elemental. He knows what he wants. Now, if only Stephen could come to terms with that!
Mina is a strong, intelligent woman, and I enjoyed seeing her and Stephen working together to solve the mystery of who the bad guy is, and how to rid themselves of him. Stephen keeps being surprised at how bright Mina is, but then he comes to depend upon that quality in her. Yes, very enjoyable.
I had two "quibbles" with this book. Stephen was sure that none of his ancestors would have written anything clear about the nature of dragons in any of the journals that reside in his library. That's the library where Mina keeps herself busy as she waits for them to find the bad guy. Yet, she finds several such deatails in the writings there. Maybe Stephen just didn't realize?
The second thing that rather bothered me: Their UST is building to a huge explosion. Very nicely done, too. But then...the culmination comes on a floor, in a mouldy old building where Mina didn't even want to touch the walls! I had a hard time getting into the steamy moment when all I could think about was the fact that a rat could join them at any time.
I'm hoping that we get to see Colin, Stephen's brother, as the lead in a future book. He was quite funny and charming. Maybe the lady doctor would be a good match for him. I'd also like to see Mina flying with Stephen. Yes, I would!
This is my first Isabel Cooper book, but it won't be my last.
*Thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks, for the opportunity to read Legend of the Highland Dragon.
Publication Date:
December 3, 2013
You can pre-order it now!
July 2, 2015
~ 3 Legend of the Highland Dragon Stars ~
Legend of the Highland Dragon is book one in the Highland Dragon series by Isabel Cooper. I am a lover of dragons and when I find a book with dragons featured, I almost always pick it up.
I enjoyed Legend of the Highland Dragon. It takes place in London around the end of the 1800’s. It’s a slower type of read then what I am use too. Things in the story move along at a very steady pace with the romance blooming slowly and most of the action and love scene happening in the last 25% of the book. The premise was interesting with dragons and magic at the forefront, but it was lacking in world building. The characters Stephan and Mina did not disappoint. I liked Mina’s courage, quick thinking, and that she takes magic and dragons quit well for a women of that time period. I also liked Stephan as the Dragon. He’s a couple centuries old, sexy, and plays his part well.
Legend of the Highland Dragon did not blow me away, but it has not deterred me from continuing the series. For the most part I have a hard time reading historical romances and books that are a slower type of read, but I still enjoyed this novel.
If you enjoy historical romance, a slow burning romance, mystery, demons, a villain, and magic then give Legend of the Highland Dragon a try.
Legend of the Highland Dragon is book one in the Highland Dragon series by Isabel Cooper. I am a lover of dragons and when I find a book with dragons featured, I almost always pick it up.
I enjoyed Legend of the Highland Dragon. It takes place in London around the end of the 1800’s. It’s a slower type of read then what I am use too. Things in the story move along at a very steady pace with the romance blooming slowly and most of the action and love scene happening in the last 25% of the book. The premise was interesting with dragons and magic at the forefront, but it was lacking in world building. The characters Stephan and Mina did not disappoint. I liked Mina’s courage, quick thinking, and that she takes magic and dragons quit well for a women of that time period. I also liked Stephan as the Dragon. He’s a couple centuries old, sexy, and plays his part well.
Legend of the Highland Dragon did not blow me away, but it has not deterred me from continuing the series. For the most part I have a hard time reading historical romances and books that are a slower type of read, but I still enjoyed this novel.
If you enjoy historical romance, a slow burning romance, mystery, demons, a villain, and magic then give Legend of the Highland Dragon a try.
March 16, 2014
This book was a romance but not a smutty read. However, the story was more than captivating to hold my attention and kept reading.
Mostly, it's a story between a lord (hero) and a working class typist/secretary (heroine) sometime when feminism is just emerging. It's not a lust/love at first sight (and definitely not a hate/anger at first sight) so the story develops with their falling in love while fighting the enemy. A strong heroine but not crass. She is a street wise and a no-nonsense wise cracker. I love that her feeling did not made her putty in the hero's hands as well.
The hero is an entirely new take on the dragon shapeshifter. Though his paranormal side was not explain in full, it did not hinder my liking his character. I love that his strength came with a flaw which made his character like-able. Further more, though he is definitely an alpha he never posture just to show his power.
Secondary characters were not just decorations either, they are necessary and are just as memorable as the two main character. The hero's brother for one is a major source of witty and hilarious banter.
Overall, a great read for me. I scream when the story abruptly end just moments after the villain was killed but....ah well, it was a fun read.
September 22, 2013
I love dragons and Stephen MacAlasdair in Legend of the Highland Dragon does not disappoint. He and Mina Seymour have to carry the story and they both do a great job. Stephen is the oldest in his clan. Mina is a modern woman in 1894. She is smart, strong, and driven. They are thrown together when an old enemy reappears.
Their chemistry is wonderful but both fight the attraction even as they work together. Mina had taken typewriter training and worked up from her lower class birth. She sees the class difference as the problem. Stephen is a shape shifter and in his other form is a dragon. He sees that as the problem.
The story brings the two together in a well thought out plot that requires they to get over their per-conceived notions. This is an interesting story that moves in a consistent manner to a great conclusion. The writing is good, the characters are interesting, and there is a great journey to the HEA
Stephen has a brother who shows up in the book. It looked like there were hooks for future stories about the MacAlasdair family.
I received an ARC of Legend of the Highland Dragon from Netgalley.
Their chemistry is wonderful but both fight the attraction even as they work together. Mina had taken typewriter training and worked up from her lower class birth. She sees the class difference as the problem. Stephen is a shape shifter and in his other form is a dragon. He sees that as the problem.
The story brings the two together in a well thought out plot that requires they to get over their per-conceived notions. This is an interesting story that moves in a consistent manner to a great conclusion. The writing is good, the characters are interesting, and there is a great journey to the HEA
Stephen has a brother who shows up in the book. It looked like there were hooks for future stories about the MacAlasdair family.
I received an ARC of Legend of the Highland Dragon from Netgalley.
August 11, 2016
2.5 stars
I read the blurb about this book somewhere online & placed a hold on it when I saw that it was a new library book available as an e-book. I had not read anything else by this author.
After reading several chapters, I put my e-reader down and came online to find out more about this author and the book because I was convinced that I was in the middle of a series and that there were events/characters that I should have known more about in order to read this book. Alas, it turns out this is the first book about this family of Scottish human/dragon shapeshifters.
Another problem I had was with the exceedingly slow pace of the first 90% of the story followed by the wham-bam-thank you ma'am finish.
Despite the inadequate world-building and pacing problems, I did enjoy the characters and will try the second in the series if available from the library. (I wouldn't spend money on it.)
I read the blurb about this book somewhere online & placed a hold on it when I saw that it was a new library book available as an e-book. I had not read anything else by this author.
After reading several chapters, I put my e-reader down and came online to find out more about this author and the book because I was convinced that I was in the middle of a series and that there were events/characters that I should have known more about in order to read this book. Alas, it turns out this is the first book about this family of Scottish human/dragon shapeshifters.
Another problem I had was with the exceedingly slow pace of the first 90% of the story followed by the wham-bam-thank you ma'am finish.
Despite the inadequate world-building and pacing problems, I did enjoy the characters and will try the second in the series if available from the library. (I wouldn't spend money on it.)
January 30, 2015
Finished this yesterday while I was out running errands and had no wifi to get online and post. Anyway I liked this story more than I expected to. It's more steampunk-ish than I thought it would be, though more fantasy and magic than machines and science fiction. Which I tend to like better. I also like that it's Victorian era rather than medieval or Regency, because it's different. The heroine is a secretary in the early days of women taking that sort of work, from a lower working-class family. One sister is a maid, a brother is a sailor. The hero seems to get the heroine's boss (a professor she's protective of because he dared to hire her) into some kind of predicament, so she goes to have a chat with the cook to find out more and things happen. Plus, she sees the hero being all dragony. (It's not a spoiler, for heaven's sake--the dragon is in the frickin title! ) And the adventure goes from there, and a very enjoyable adventure it is.
November 14, 2013
An original story about an immortal dragon shifter who is being hunted by an old enemy. He gets saddled by a nosy girl who came to a a mans house to find out more about him, only to be chased by ghostly monsters & running into the shifter dragon. Now she's stuck with him, so she doesn't tell anyone about his true nature...
I enjoyed this story, but it is very slow moving during the first half, but it became fun and more entertaining when his brother showed up. It lost a star because of the beginning, but I would definitely read more from this author... She's proven herself already to me & I am faithful!!
An editing issue that bugged me a few times was Mina turning into a Mira every once in a while which became a teeny bit confusing...
This is not a steampunk novel, but it reminded me of one because of the 1890's era...
I enjoyed this story, but it is very slow moving during the first half, but it became fun and more entertaining when his brother showed up. It lost a star because of the beginning, but I would definitely read more from this author... She's proven herself already to me & I am faithful!!
An editing issue that bugged me a few times was Mina turning into a Mira every once in a while which became a teeny bit confusing...
This is not a steampunk novel, but it reminded me of one because of the 1890's era...
November 22, 2013
Dragons and evil things afoot. Stephen is a dragon, seems there are a few "people" around who can shift into dragons. And this one hails from Scotland ;) I do like the sword and kilt and background, sadly nothing of that happens as the book takes place in London.
Anyway. Dragon meets guard dog and because of things I shall not venture into Mina, the guard dog aka secretary for a professor comes to work for Stephen. Learns of his second nature and helps him with the issue at hand...those pesky evil things that are happening.
There is of course romance coming too as they are drawn to each other but know they should not act upon it. But they sure still do ;)
Romance, danger and fights. Mysteries and legends. We also meet his brother at one time and I hope there is a book about him too.
Anyway. Dragon meets guard dog and because of things I shall not venture into Mina, the guard dog aka secretary for a professor comes to work for Stephen. Learns of his second nature and helps him with the issue at hand...those pesky evil things that are happening.
There is of course romance coming too as they are drawn to each other but know they should not act upon it. But they sure still do ;)
Romance, danger and fights. Mysteries and legends. We also meet his brother at one time and I hope there is a book about him too.
February 8, 2017
Curiously satisfying-to-me read. Quietly compelling, with a subversive humor and a competent heroine. Non-douchey hero. Hit the spot.
January 26, 2014
Dragons, Demons, Magic, and Highlanders? Sign me up! This story had great potential and great writing however... as I read on it wasn't as exciting as I thought it would be. Honestly, how do you make a story about magic and romance boring?!?! Well if all the main characters do is sit around drinking tea and talking 80% of the book - that might do it.
You can tell Cooper did a lot of research,and Mina was interesting, but there wasn't enough sizzle in this novel to keep me from taking a nap every couple of pages.
Solid 3 stars purely because the writing WAS good, the story telling on the other hand...
You can tell Cooper did a lot of research,and Mina was interesting, but there wasn't enough sizzle in this novel to keep me from taking a nap every couple of pages.
Solid 3 stars purely because the writing WAS good, the story telling on the other hand...
April 6, 2014
Great writing, characters, romance, adventure, world building, plot!
Want to read
December 24, 201425 April 2014: $1.99 on Kindle
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