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Spellbound Falls #6
The Highlander Next Door
From the New York Times bestselling Janet Chapman comes this delightful tale of a young woman who's had enough of men...until she meets her spectacular new neighbor.
Legend has it love is carried on the rising mists of Spellbound Falls, and not even time-traveling highlanders are immune to its magic…
Birch Callahan has seen the trouble men can cause. After witnessing her mother’s four marriages, Birch now runs a women’s shelter and doesn’t want a man in her life. But there’s something about her neighbor, Niall MacKeage. Birch can’t figure out how the cop can be so big and gruff and yet so insightful and compassionate—and sexy. Or how she’s falling for a man who acts like someone from the twelfth century.
Niall knows that Birch is attracted to him, even if she seems to distrust all men. Yet he also knows she has a secret—something that drives her to place herself in harm’s way for the women of her shelter. Niall would gladly rush to Birch’s side to protect her from harm, but with their secrets standing between them, he’ll have to reveal his own truth if he wants to keep her…
Legend has it love is carried on the rising mists of Spellbound Falls, and not even time-traveling highlanders are immune to its magic…
Birch Callahan has seen the trouble men can cause. After witnessing her mother’s four marriages, Birch now runs a women’s shelter and doesn’t want a man in her life. But there’s something about her neighbor, Niall MacKeage. Birch can’t figure out how the cop can be so big and gruff and yet so insightful and compassionate—and sexy. Or how she’s falling for a man who acts like someone from the twelfth century.
Niall knows that Birch is attracted to him, even if she seems to distrust all men. Yet he also knows she has a secret—something that drives her to place herself in harm’s way for the women of her shelter. Niall would gladly rush to Birch’s side to protect her from harm, but with their secrets standing between them, he’ll have to reveal his own truth if he wants to keep her…
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2014
170 people are currently reading
1072 people want to read
About the author
Janet Chapman
28 books1,114 followersJanuary 22, 1956 – October 28, 2017
Hey guys its Jessica. Sorry I’ve been MIA for so long. I apologize for the long overdue wait for Janet’s next book. You’ve all been very patient and loyal fans that she loves. She has been working on this book over the last year and a half while dealing with her battle with cancer. It saddens me to say that she peacefully lost this battle this past weekend while her family was by her side. I apologize if this feels sudden, she was a very private person even to her family. And she truly thought of all of you as her family. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Janet Chapman is the author of twenty-two contemporary and magical romance novels, all of which are set in her beautiful state of Maine. She lives in a cozy log home on a beautiful lake with her husband, surrounded by an eclectic assortment of wildlife that she finds both entertaining and inspiring. Probably best known for her Highlander Series (a saga of twelfth century warriors rebuilding their clans in modern-day Maine that now spans three generations), Janet also has two spin-off magical series (Midnight Bay & Spellbound Falls) and several contemporary family series set on the coast and in the mountains. With over three million books printed in six languages, her stories regularly appear on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller’s lists.
When she’s not writing (well, when she should to be writing but isn’t), Janet and her husband are traveling the state in their camper throughout all four seasons; hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and generally rubbing elbows with Mother Nature while always keeping an eye out for colorful new characters—human and beast—to put in her stories.
author's obituary
Hey guys its Jessica. Sorry I’ve been MIA for so long. I apologize for the long overdue wait for Janet’s next book. You’ve all been very patient and loyal fans that she loves. She has been working on this book over the last year and a half while dealing with her battle with cancer. It saddens me to say that she peacefully lost this battle this past weekend while her family was by her side. I apologize if this feels sudden, she was a very private person even to her family. And she truly thought of all of you as her family. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Janet Chapman is the author of twenty-two contemporary and magical romance novels, all of which are set in her beautiful state of Maine. She lives in a cozy log home on a beautiful lake with her husband, surrounded by an eclectic assortment of wildlife that she finds both entertaining and inspiring. Probably best known for her Highlander Series (a saga of twelfth century warriors rebuilding their clans in modern-day Maine that now spans three generations), Janet also has two spin-off magical series (Midnight Bay & Spellbound Falls) and several contemporary family series set on the coast and in the mountains. With over three million books printed in six languages, her stories regularly appear on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller’s lists.
When she’s not writing (well, when she should to be writing but isn’t), Janet and her husband are traveling the state in their camper throughout all four seasons; hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and generally rubbing elbows with Mother Nature while always keeping an eye out for colorful new characters—human and beast—to put in her stories.
author's obituary
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
December 17, 2015
Another fun trip to Spellbound Falls. Here we have Niall, twelfth century Highlander, brought forward in an earlier book as a possible suitor for Titus's daughter. He lost out on that one, but decided he liked the current time, so he stayed and has become the town's first police chief. One of the benefits of the job is free housing, next door to the local women's shelter, with the understanding that he will watch out for them. This puts him in frequent contact with Birch, the shelter director, a woman with very definite opinions about men.
Birch is new to Spellbound Falls also. She has brought her mother with her to help run the shelter. She is of the opinion that men are more trouble than they are worth. After witnessing her mother's four disastrous marriages, plus the ones she sees in her work, she has decided that marriage is not for her. Currently at the top of her list is her neighbor. She needs his cooperation in support of the work she does, and she isn't getting it. There's something about him that rubs her the wrong way, but that may just be the attraction she refuses to admit.
I loved the relationship that built between Niall and Birch. Niall freely admits that Birch aggravates the heck out of him, but that very feistiness is one of the things he likes about her. He also senses that beneath her frequent confrontations, she is just as attracted to him, which amuses him a lot. Their encounters are fun to see as they deal with situations with very different methods. As they begin to work together, Birch starts to realize that Niall is someone she can trust and her attitude begins to change a little. However, she's still stubborn about what she does and tends to get herself into trouble that Niall has to save her from. Niall reverts somewhat to his medieval Highlander persona, as his protective nature kicks in. That clash with Birch's modern attitude makes for a few interesting situations. The intensity of his first rescue of her kicks their attraction up a couple levels. I loved seeing Birch go after the comfort she needed afterwards. As their relationship progressed, Niall was able to understand Birch and her ways better as he learned more about her background. I liked seeing Birch learn to trust that Niall would be there for her, and Niall convince her that he loved her just the way she was. The only thing I wonder about is that he hadn't yet told her the truth about who he was. I missed that because it has always been a fun part of previous books.
There was some mystery included in the book as something from Birch and her mother's past creates trouble for them. Starting with a strange car that runs her off the road, Birch and Niall try to figure out who is after her and why. When the final confrontation comes, I have to say that I was impressed with Birch's ability to stay calm and focused. I loved how Niall was able to get help and support from his friends, and how it all came together at the end.
The secondary characters were terrific, especially Birch's mother. Though the initial impression was one of something of an airhead, but it turned out she was anything but. I understood Birch's need to protect her, and loved seeing their close relationship. It was great fun to see Hazel really come into her own as Niall's secretary and Girl Friday. She was really quite a powerhouse. I also loved seeing her with Sam, and then with Birch's father Claude. It will be interesting to see if anything happens with them in future books.
Also present throughout the book are appearances by a new deity, one that was brought forth in a previous book, The Heart of a Hero. The question everyone has is whether he'll be a good one or a bad one. I quite enjoyed the way he appeared to Birch, and the conversations she had with him. I especially liked her talk with the eagle who ate her pie. Eventually we have a name for him, and I get the feeling he'll come down on the side of good. It was fun to see the differences between a "modern" deity and the ancient ones like Titus and Mac. I'm looking forward to seeing more of him in later books.
Birch is new to Spellbound Falls also. She has brought her mother with her to help run the shelter. She is of the opinion that men are more trouble than they are worth. After witnessing her mother's four disastrous marriages, plus the ones she sees in her work, she has decided that marriage is not for her. Currently at the top of her list is her neighbor. She needs his cooperation in support of the work she does, and she isn't getting it. There's something about him that rubs her the wrong way, but that may just be the attraction she refuses to admit.
I loved the relationship that built between Niall and Birch. Niall freely admits that Birch aggravates the heck out of him, but that very feistiness is one of the things he likes about her. He also senses that beneath her frequent confrontations, she is just as attracted to him, which amuses him a lot. Their encounters are fun to see as they deal with situations with very different methods. As they begin to work together, Birch starts to realize that Niall is someone she can trust and her attitude begins to change a little. However, she's still stubborn about what she does and tends to get herself into trouble that Niall has to save her from. Niall reverts somewhat to his medieval Highlander persona, as his protective nature kicks in. That clash with Birch's modern attitude makes for a few interesting situations. The intensity of his first rescue of her kicks their attraction up a couple levels. I loved seeing Birch go after the comfort she needed afterwards. As their relationship progressed, Niall was able to understand Birch and her ways better as he learned more about her background. I liked seeing Birch learn to trust that Niall would be there for her, and Niall convince her that he loved her just the way she was. The only thing I wonder about is that he hadn't yet told her the truth about who he was. I missed that because it has always been a fun part of previous books.
There was some mystery included in the book as something from Birch and her mother's past creates trouble for them. Starting with a strange car that runs her off the road, Birch and Niall try to figure out who is after her and why. When the final confrontation comes, I have to say that I was impressed with Birch's ability to stay calm and focused. I loved how Niall was able to get help and support from his friends, and how it all came together at the end.
The secondary characters were terrific, especially Birch's mother. Though the initial impression was one of something of an airhead, but it turned out she was anything but. I understood Birch's need to protect her, and loved seeing their close relationship. It was great fun to see Hazel really come into her own as Niall's secretary and Girl Friday. She was really quite a powerhouse. I also loved seeing her with Sam, and then with Birch's father Claude. It will be interesting to see if anything happens with them in future books.
Also present throughout the book are appearances by a new deity, one that was brought forth in a previous book, The Heart of a Hero. The question everyone has is whether he'll be a good one or a bad one. I quite enjoyed the way he appeared to Birch, and the conversations she had with him. I especially liked her talk with the eagle who ate her pie. Eventually we have a name for him, and I get the feeling he'll come down on the side of good. It was fun to see the differences between a "modern" deity and the ancient ones like Titus and Mac. I'm looking forward to seeing more of him in later books.
June 17, 2015
This is a story that I wanted to love and even though I did love parts of the story, overall it was an average read for me, it felt a little flat and considering this is one of my favorite authors, it’s quite a disappointment. I have enjoyed seeing how this series has progressed, but with each book I have felt less and less interested, and I had too high hopes for this one. And I just want to say I have been waiting for Niall’s book for quite some time. Niall along with some other Scotsman, were transported from medieval Scotland to modern Maine. He has come to Spellbound Falls, and is the chief of police and his neighbor, is a pain in his backside, a woman out for women’s rights…Birch Callahan. When we learn of Birch’s history with men, most especially the men her mother has been married to but all four husbands ended up being scumbags….and only her birth father is the only man she has ever loved or respected. There were many scenes that were quite fun to read and boy can Niall and Birch go at it. The quick-witted bantering and the easy-going playfulness that these two characters tend to have with each other….was enough to keep me interested. As a bonus we get many characters from previous books and love seeing these characters again. The two main characters are both equally matched, they each have their own interests and goals, and we see how despite their differences, they work best together and not fighting each other. I did enjoy seeing the fun banter, but after so long it got too old, meaning that it was too much. I did enjoy Niall way more than Birch though. She was a bit of a harpy and she tended to be too harsh in her judgments, she didn’t really soften until the very end. But as an overall read, it didn’t come to par as Janet Chapman’s usual style, so I felt disappointed. I will still read her in the future, and maybe I will re read her previous books before I read her next book coming up later this year. I would still recommend this author, and try out her earlier books (because they are outstanding) and I hope the next book of hers sings to me better!!
August 28, 2014
The Highlander next Door
Well after months of waiting the next book has been released. I’ve been eagerly awaiting this one and couldn’t wait to start reading. I am just over 100 pages in and I’m struggling to continue. First time in one of Ms Chapman’s books that I want to shake the hero and tell him to run, run now and as far away as you can get.
The story revolves around Birch, who I have already christened ERB and Niall [lovely guy but I’m starting to wonder about his intelligence levels]. She has major daddy issues, . Some how, despite her major personality issues, temper, swearing, constant lying, she has managed to get through a university degree in human behaviour, a doctorate, become a director of the local Crisis Centre and a counsellor for abused women, running a shelter where her behaviour is beyond any counsellor I’ve ever seen. She is elitist She seems to think she’s above the locals
I’m 108 pages in and if I wasn’t writing this review I’d toss this book right now. I'm actually struggling to go any further which is a first for me with a Janet Chapman book. Usually I will sit and read it until the end no matter how long I have to sit up to do so.
I’ll edit this review if I go further into the book but all I can say so far is RUN NIALL, RUNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!
Addendum: I have now finished the book and upped the star rating by one. After about page 110 ERB seemed to have a partial personality transplant and become a semi decent person. Still that is one Crisis Center I would be steering clear of.
Well after months of waiting the next book has been released. I’ve been eagerly awaiting this one and couldn’t wait to start reading. I am just over 100 pages in and I’m struggling to continue. First time in one of Ms Chapman’s books that I want to shake the hero and tell him to run, run now and as far away as you can get.
The story revolves around Birch, who I have already christened ERB and Niall [lovely guy but I’m starting to wonder about his intelligence levels]. She has major daddy issues, . Some how, despite her major personality issues, temper, swearing, constant lying, she has managed to get through a university degree in human behaviour, a doctorate, become a director of the local Crisis Centre and a counsellor for abused women, running a shelter where her behaviour is beyond any counsellor I’ve ever seen. She is elitist She seems to think she’s above the locals
I’m 108 pages in and if I wasn’t writing this review I’d toss this book right now. I'm actually struggling to go any further which is a first for me with a Janet Chapman book. Usually I will sit and read it until the end no matter how long I have to sit up to do so.
I’ll edit this review if I go further into the book but all I can say so far is RUN NIALL, RUNNNNNNNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!
Addendum: I have now finished the book and upped the star rating by one. After about page 110 ERB seemed to have a partial personality transplant and become a semi decent person. Still that is one Crisis Center I would be steering clear of.
August 31, 2014
The sixth book in the Spellbound Falls series is about the new police chief Niall Mackeage and his neighbour the goodhearted but fiery Birch, who passionately runs the newly opened women’s shelter. But, not without a little bit of trouble coming their way, between a new god emerging and wrecking havoc and Birch’s past catching up with her, and trying to drive her off the road, Niall has his work cut out for him to not only keep the town running smoothly, but also to win Birch’s heart.
Time travelling Lairds you say? Yes indeed, we are back with Janet Chapman and the magical world that she has created in modern day Maine. Which, if it’s as overrun with as many 12th century Highlanders, sexy magic users and gorgeous Atlantians as she says, then I am definitely going for a very long visit.
Of course, if I went, what I would expect is a very sweet romance, just like Niall and Birch and the previous couples in the series, Chapman’s romances tend to veer to the ‘nice’ section of the romance scale rather than the more heated and passionate side, despite the couples many many spats. But I always know with Chapman that I can find a romance that encompasses friendship and connection rather than lots of heat and overblown chemistry. Admittedly it makes the romance a little less exciting, but I still enjoyed it.
What I really liked about this book and what did add extra excitement was the continuation of the story line regarding the modern day god that has just been created. I can’t wait to see what will happen and if the modern will clash with the ancient or if they can come to an understanding. Either way it feels like it will be an interesting journey, which I can’t wait to read more about.
This was a good book in the series, if you already follow Spellbound Falls you will enjoy it, if not I recommend you start from the beginning, they don’t work very well as standalones, it is the perfect series if you want something full of sweet romances with some magic poured in, not to mention a flood of sexy Scotsman.
*ARC provided by publisher
December 9, 2016
Janet Chapman has in the past, written so many books that I am constantly re-reading that I could never really believe that she would ever write a book that I am unenthusiastic about. A book that I wouldn't be able to praise to kingdom come. Until now.
The first 15 -18% of the book is pretty much spent recapping all of the past books and you will find that this happens during the book also. The characters and the romance never really seems as fully developed as in the past books. The magic never has to be explained to Birch. Birch; is that a French-Canadian name? I'm not used to non-famous parents naming their children after trees or plants!
The story line is a little preposterous, but then again usually the story is more about the romance than anything else. The mysteries are usually secondary to anything else. However, in this particular book, the romance seemed to take a back-seat to they mystery.
If anything, this book seems to be a set-up for upcoming volumes and it really left something to be desired for me.
I have a feeling this won't be the last time we see these particular secondary characters and the build up of the forest God might lead to the best book yet...I hope. Otherwise this book may just be a bad book and not the stepping stone I hope it to be!
****Book 7 will be coming out (unfortunately Amazon has deleted the page for the new book) called "Call it Magic ( A Spellbound Falls Romance)" -and B&N doesn't show it either.
The first 15 -18% of the book is pretty much spent recapping all of the past books and you will find that this happens during the book also. The characters and the romance never really seems as fully developed as in the past books. The magic never has to be explained to Birch. Birch; is that a French-Canadian name? I'm not used to non-famous parents naming their children after trees or plants!
The story line is a little preposterous, but then again usually the story is more about the romance than anything else. The mysteries are usually secondary to anything else. However, in this particular book, the romance seemed to take a back-seat to they mystery.
If anything, this book seems to be a set-up for upcoming volumes and it really left something to be desired for me.
I have a feeling this won't be the last time we see these particular secondary characters and the build up of the forest God might lead to the best book yet...I hope. Otherwise this book may just be a bad book and not the stepping stone I hope it to be!
****Book 7 will be coming out (unfortunately Amazon has deleted the page for the new book) called "Call it Magic ( A Spellbound Falls Romance)" -and B&N doesn't show it either.
September 30, 2019
Synopsis:
From the New York Time bestselling Janet Chapman comes this delightful tale of a young woman who's had enough of men...until she meets her spectacular new neighbor.
Legend has it love is carried on the rising mists of Spellbound Falls, and not even time-traveling highlanders are immune to its magic…
Birch Callahan has seen the trouble men can cause. After witnessing her mother’s four marriages, Birch now runs a women’s shelter and doesn’t want a man in her life. But there’s something about her neighbor, Niall MacKeage. Birch can’t figure out how the cop can be so big and gruff and yet so insightful and compassionate—and sexy. Or how she’s falling for a man who acts like someone from the twelfth century.
Niall knows that Birch is attracted to him, even if she seems to distrust all men. Yet he also knows she has a secret—something that drives her to place herself in harm’s way for the women of her shelter. Niall would gladly rush to Birch’s side to protect her from harm, but with their secrets standing between them, he’ll have to reveal his own truth if he wants to keep her…
My review:
I am a big fan of Janet Chapman. I only complain that her books are few and far between. This was excellent and I love the addition of new characters. Cannot wait to see how the series develops and unfolds!
From the New York Time bestselling Janet Chapman comes this delightful tale of a young woman who's had enough of men...until she meets her spectacular new neighbor.
Legend has it love is carried on the rising mists of Spellbound Falls, and not even time-traveling highlanders are immune to its magic…
Birch Callahan has seen the trouble men can cause. After witnessing her mother’s four marriages, Birch now runs a women’s shelter and doesn’t want a man in her life. But there’s something about her neighbor, Niall MacKeage. Birch can’t figure out how the cop can be so big and gruff and yet so insightful and compassionate—and sexy. Or how she’s falling for a man who acts like someone from the twelfth century.
Niall knows that Birch is attracted to him, even if she seems to distrust all men. Yet he also knows she has a secret—something that drives her to place herself in harm’s way for the women of her shelter. Niall would gladly rush to Birch’s side to protect her from harm, but with their secrets standing between them, he’ll have to reveal his own truth if he wants to keep her…
My review:
I am a big fan of Janet Chapman. I only complain that her books are few and far between. This was excellent and I love the addition of new characters. Cannot wait to see how the series develops and unfolds!
November 5, 2017
Got this this weekend at my local library sale (Nov 4th). Having heard about Janet Chapman's death, when I saw this, I picked it up. I've never read her and thought I should. I think this was the wrong book to start with (detailed below).
Here is her obituary. I loved that her family mentioned she was on hospice.
Oopsie, this is book 6 in a series that is a spin-off of another series. So, maybe I would have enjoyed this (a little) more if I had been more involved in this world and characters. So, back to the book.
Niall is originally from somewhere else. Make that a different time. Pretty cool, yeah? He is the Chief of Police. He had moments where I liked him and didn't. My main problems where with the heroine, Birch. And maybe Niall's intelligence in falling for someone like Birch.
Birch's mother has been married 4 times and has made some iffy choices. So, Birch is JADED. To the point she's a BITCH. Yes, in caps, because she is that BAD. I didn't like her, couldn't connect with her, and didn't believe her turn around. No, no, and no. I didn't like that she ran a battered women's shelter. Wrong career choice there.
Here is her obituary. I loved that her family mentioned she was on hospice.
Oopsie, this is book 6 in a series that is a spin-off of another series. So, maybe I would have enjoyed this (a little) more if I had been more involved in this world and characters. So, back to the book.
Niall is originally from somewhere else. Make that a different time. Pretty cool, yeah? He is the Chief of Police. He had moments where I liked him and didn't. My main problems where with the heroine, Birch. And maybe Niall's intelligence in falling for someone like Birch.
Birch's mother has been married 4 times and has made some iffy choices. So, Birch is JADED. To the point she's a BITCH. Yes, in caps, because she is that BAD. I didn't like her, couldn't connect with her, and didn't believe her turn around. No, no, and no. I didn't like that she ran a battered women's shelter. Wrong career choice there.
May 24, 2017
Like all books in the Spellbound series, I liked this one but really thought Birch was a bitch for most of it. She was the perfect man-hating person to run a woman's shelter but honestly it wasn't much of a shelter anyway. The woman Birch brings in aren't really in need of shelter from a man so I felt this part of the story was forced.
I really didn't see what Niall saw in her either. She was just plain nasty to him and everyone else. I guess he made up his mind when she walked into his house unannounced and got into bed with him. Presume much.
I liked the cameo's by the other characters but this wasn't my favorite in the series.
I really didn't see what Niall saw in her either. She was just plain nasty to him and everyone else. I guess he made up his mind when she walked into his house unannounced and got into bed with him. Presume much.
I liked the cameo's by the other characters but this wasn't my favorite in the series.
October 11, 2014
I love the products of Janet Chapman's imagination! The romances are great, of course, but I think it's the magic that makes her Highlander and Spellbound Falls books so great. And in this one, we see some of the results of what's happening with that new god that just barely manifested in For the Love of Magic. And it looks like this god is thinking modern and hands-on, unlike the Oceanuses, so looking for some possible conflict in the future.
July 9, 2017
(I won this paperback a few years back. I am voluntarily reviewing it)
Once upon a more enlightened time.....in Maine, near the Canadian border, in a magically charged area known as Spellbound Falls, came a new director of the crisis center, her mother, and her tiny dog. Self sufficient Dr.Birch Callahan begins to settle in despite her next door neighbor, the new police chief Niall MacKeage, who lives next door with his big dog Shep. Their attraction is evident however each comes laden with baggage from their pasts. The question is can they get out of their own way long enough to acknowledge the attraction?
In this, the sixth book in Chapman's Spellbound Falls series, the author has written a wonderful romance paralleling a rip roaring time traveling bunch of 12th century highlanders. The predicaments they deal with are sometimes so humorous you can't help but laugh out loud. The community she has developed has smart, funny people who are easy to believe in. And , before I forget, this is one.romantic.book: a wonderful love story tucked into a magical place full of characters you find yourself rooting for. Highly recommended. 5+ stars
Once upon a more enlightened time.....in Maine, near the Canadian border, in a magically charged area known as Spellbound Falls, came a new director of the crisis center, her mother, and her tiny dog. Self sufficient Dr.Birch Callahan begins to settle in despite her next door neighbor, the new police chief Niall MacKeage, who lives next door with his big dog Shep. Their attraction is evident however each comes laden with baggage from their pasts. The question is can they get out of their own way long enough to acknowledge the attraction?
In this, the sixth book in Chapman's Spellbound Falls series, the author has written a wonderful romance paralleling a rip roaring time traveling bunch of 12th century highlanders. The predicaments they deal with are sometimes so humorous you can't help but laugh out loud. The community she has developed has smart, funny people who are easy to believe in. And , before I forget, this is one.romantic.book: a wonderful love story tucked into a magical place full of characters you find yourself rooting for. Highly recommended. 5+ stars
June 13, 2017
This is the story of Niall MacKeage, a man from the twelfth century, now living and working in present day Maine. It is also the story of Birch Callahan who has had an unusual upbringing which has made her very uptight around men. Birch has started a shelter for abused women and Niall lives next door. They butt heads from the beginning until he saves her life. The book was a quick easy read.
July 16, 2020
I really liked the story, just getting tired of the storyline of people being able to manifest new gods if they really try. All the rest was a good read.
September 10, 2014
I'm a sucker for a good highlander romance, so I was definitely looking forward to reading this book. I haven't read any other novels by Janet Chapman, but I was excited to see what would happen when you throw a time traveling Scotsman into a tourist town in Maine…
Birch Callahan has seen her fair share of untrustworthy men, especially when it comes to those who go after her mother. Birch decides to open a woman's shelter in Spellbound Falls and is determined to show her residents that they don't need a man to feel strong and beautiful. But for some reason, Birch can't stop noticing the big, sexy cop next door. Niall knows that Birch is one hard-headed lady, but he can see that there's something beneath her hard exterior that's made her the way she is today. So when Birch finds herself in more than one life threatening situation, Niall always makes sure he's the one to save her. When danger comes to Spellbound Falls and threatens Birch and her family, Niall does everything in his power and beyond to save the woman who claims she doesn't need a man to take care of her. Or does she?
Right away, I could tell Birch was going to be a very different protagonist from what I'm used to. While I love headstrong women, I think Birch sometimes went over the edge in her trust issues with men. Birch pretty much drags any woman who is having man problems away from their significant others to live at the shelter where they an learn to be independent and strong. While I'm all for independence, it seemed like Birch took it a bit too far sometimes. Also, with Birch being such a strong-willed woman, Niall sometimes lost his macho-ness and seemed a bit too soft and too much of a pushover at times. I wish we got more of the warrior-like Scotsman Niall was supposed to be as opposed to a man that liked to stay out of the way until his help was truly necessary.
That being said, though, I still really enjoyed the suspense and mystery this story had to offer. Who really were the men that had gone after Birch's mother's affections? Who was this mysterious new God that seemed to be meddling in everyone's business in Spellbound Falls? Who was trying to kill Birch and why? There was definitely a scandal going on and Birch had to watch her back for people going after the secrets she didn't even know she had. I also enjoyed how Niall was still new to town and building up his reputation as the head of the police department. People aren't too keen to strangers coming into their town and taking on a position of authority, so Niall had to fight to earn his respect and I think he was so cute when he tried solving the conflicts of the town citizens by forcing them to finally confront their issues that they've been skirting around for who knows how many years. Niall's romantic relationship with Birch was definitely unconventional, but I think they worked in their own unique way.
Overall, I enjoyed this story more for the secrets and suspense than for the romance. Birch wasn't my favorite character, but I appreciated how headstrong and independent she was. I really loved Niall's character and how endearing his Scottish charm was, and his relationship with Birch seemed to work when she wasn't running all over him. I'm definitely interested in reading Janet Chapman's other novels and seeing what other sexy time-traveling highlanders she has in store for me next.
Birch Callahan has seen her fair share of untrustworthy men, especially when it comes to those who go after her mother. Birch decides to open a woman's shelter in Spellbound Falls and is determined to show her residents that they don't need a man to feel strong and beautiful. But for some reason, Birch can't stop noticing the big, sexy cop next door. Niall knows that Birch is one hard-headed lady, but he can see that there's something beneath her hard exterior that's made her the way she is today. So when Birch finds herself in more than one life threatening situation, Niall always makes sure he's the one to save her. When danger comes to Spellbound Falls and threatens Birch and her family, Niall does everything in his power and beyond to save the woman who claims she doesn't need a man to take care of her. Or does she?
Right away, I could tell Birch was going to be a very different protagonist from what I'm used to. While I love headstrong women, I think Birch sometimes went over the edge in her trust issues with men. Birch pretty much drags any woman who is having man problems away from their significant others to live at the shelter where they an learn to be independent and strong. While I'm all for independence, it seemed like Birch took it a bit too far sometimes. Also, with Birch being such a strong-willed woman, Niall sometimes lost his macho-ness and seemed a bit too soft and too much of a pushover at times. I wish we got more of the warrior-like Scotsman Niall was supposed to be as opposed to a man that liked to stay out of the way until his help was truly necessary.
That being said, though, I still really enjoyed the suspense and mystery this story had to offer. Who really were the men that had gone after Birch's mother's affections? Who was this mysterious new God that seemed to be meddling in everyone's business in Spellbound Falls? Who was trying to kill Birch and why? There was definitely a scandal going on and Birch had to watch her back for people going after the secrets she didn't even know she had. I also enjoyed how Niall was still new to town and building up his reputation as the head of the police department. People aren't too keen to strangers coming into their town and taking on a position of authority, so Niall had to fight to earn his respect and I think he was so cute when he tried solving the conflicts of the town citizens by forcing them to finally confront their issues that they've been skirting around for who knows how many years. Niall's romantic relationship with Birch was definitely unconventional, but I think they worked in their own unique way.
Overall, I enjoyed this story more for the secrets and suspense than for the romance. Birch wasn't my favorite character, but I appreciated how headstrong and independent she was. I really loved Niall's character and how endearing his Scottish charm was, and his relationship with Birch seemed to work when she wasn't running all over him. I'm definitely interested in reading Janet Chapman's other novels and seeing what other sexy time-traveling highlanders she has in store for me next.
September 4, 2014
Janet Chapman takes readers back to a small town in Maine that has a penchant for magic. The Highlander Next Door is the sixth book in the Spellbound Falls series, which focuses on some time traveling highlanders and their adventures in the modern world. Readers who are looking for a sweet romance with plenty of obstacles, a little bit of magic and some mystery will love this one. Chapman incorporates all of these elements to give readers an magical reading experience!
What I liked:
You all know that I am a sucker for a good story that involves a highlander. Being of Scottish heritage, I always enjoy seeing how each author approaches the highland people and their indomitable spirit. Chapman takes her highlanders out of their comfort zone and lands them in the middle of modern society. Culture shock is an understatement. I loved the idea and the time travel elements of the story. This touch of the paranormal added a crucial ingredient that made this novel unique and different. I liked the way Chapman showed the reader how a highlander might react to things in the present. I thought Niall was spot on and loved his interactions in his new world.
Chapman takes the time to bring the readers up to date on the series in the beginning chapters. Since this is book six in the series, readers coming into it now, may have missed some of the nuances that comes from reading the entire series. Chapman not only brings new characters into play in The Highlander Next Door but she doesn't forget about those who have come before. Readers who are familiar with the series will love the little updates on previous couples and the part they have to play in this story. Chapman did a great job of incorporating all of the characters into Spellbound Falls and this novel.
There are several things going on in this story. There is of course the love story between Niall and Birch, there is the fact that a new god has come on the scene and Birch's past catching up with her. I felt like this particular book in the series leaned more toward the mystery than the romantic side of things, but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. Chapman did a great job of melding all of these elements together to create a good story. The pace is pretty even until the end where things speed up and the reader is powered into the finish.
What I didn't like:
I loved Niall, he was a great character and one impressive highlander. He was a bit set in his ways, considering his background, but that was all the more endearing. Birch, however was harder to warm up to. She has a definite fire about her, but she tended to take all that passion and express it in a not so easy to like manner. The reader will eventually warm to her, but in the beginning it is hard to see what Niall finds so appealing about her. I generally want a heroine I love or at least like and it took more time than it should with this one.
Bottom Line:
This was an enjoyable addition to the series. The time traveling highlanders were just as amazing as ever. The romance was slow to start, but once it got on track it took off. I had some issues with the heroine early on, but she eventually made me like her in spite of myself. I loved the mystery aspects of the story, but wish a little more time had been spent on the magic of it all.
What I liked:
You all know that I am a sucker for a good story that involves a highlander. Being of Scottish heritage, I always enjoy seeing how each author approaches the highland people and their indomitable spirit. Chapman takes her highlanders out of their comfort zone and lands them in the middle of modern society. Culture shock is an understatement. I loved the idea and the time travel elements of the story. This touch of the paranormal added a crucial ingredient that made this novel unique and different. I liked the way Chapman showed the reader how a highlander might react to things in the present. I thought Niall was spot on and loved his interactions in his new world.
Chapman takes the time to bring the readers up to date on the series in the beginning chapters. Since this is book six in the series, readers coming into it now, may have missed some of the nuances that comes from reading the entire series. Chapman not only brings new characters into play in The Highlander Next Door but she doesn't forget about those who have come before. Readers who are familiar with the series will love the little updates on previous couples and the part they have to play in this story. Chapman did a great job of incorporating all of the characters into Spellbound Falls and this novel.
There are several things going on in this story. There is of course the love story between Niall and Birch, there is the fact that a new god has come on the scene and Birch's past catching up with her. I felt like this particular book in the series leaned more toward the mystery than the romantic side of things, but that didn't make it any less enjoyable. Chapman did a great job of melding all of these elements together to create a good story. The pace is pretty even until the end where things speed up and the reader is powered into the finish.
What I didn't like:
I loved Niall, he was a great character and one impressive highlander. He was a bit set in his ways, considering his background, but that was all the more endearing. Birch, however was harder to warm up to. She has a definite fire about her, but she tended to take all that passion and express it in a not so easy to like manner. The reader will eventually warm to her, but in the beginning it is hard to see what Niall finds so appealing about her. I generally want a heroine I love or at least like and it took more time than it should with this one.
Bottom Line:
This was an enjoyable addition to the series. The time traveling highlanders were just as amazing as ever. The romance was slow to start, but once it got on track it took off. I had some issues with the heroine early on, but she eventually made me like her in spite of myself. I loved the mystery aspects of the story, but wish a little more time had been spent on the magic of it all.
August 28, 2014
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Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jerjen
The Highlander Next Door by Janet Chapman is a book that combines romance, mystery and magic. This is the sixth book in the Spellbound Falls Series.
Birch Callahan runs a women’s shelter and she is fiercely loyal and protective of those who reside in the shelter. She has brought her mother to live with her because she is afraid if her mother is left alone, she will find husband number five. Birch is very wary of all men and is not interested in having any permanent relationships. And she sure is not looking for anything developing between Niall MacKeage, the lawman who lives next door to the shelter. The two are always bumping heads and disagreeing about the abusive men that the women in the shelter are hiding from. Even Birch’s dog Mimi does not like Niall’s dog Shep and tries to attack Shep whenever she can. But legend says that the mist from Spellbound Falls carries love and no one is immune to it’s magic. Will Birch and Niall fall under the spell of the Falls?
Birch is a strong willed women who is not afraid to do whatever it takes to protect the women who live in the shelter. She presents a tough-as-nails exterior, not allowing others to see her more tender side. But deep down she has fears and longings like all women do. The more time she spends with Niall, the more she wants him to be the one to break down her walls.
Niall MacKeage is a time-traveler who has ended up in Spellbound Falls and has been chosen to be a lawman. He is big and brusque and intimidating. But he is also caring and compassionate and loyal. Even though Birch aggravates him most of the time, he finds himself falling for her and wanting to protect her. He must decide if he can trust her with the fact that he is a time traveler.
I really enjoyed the present day actions and storyline of Birch and Niall. The banter and bickering of the two characters are humorous and endearing. I really enjoyed reading how Birch kept trying to save the residents of the shelter and Niall trying to keep the peace in the community and trying to keep Birch safe.
What I did not enjoy so much was that, to me, there were too many characters introduced in the book. I think that the fact that this was the sixth book in the series, and I had not read any of the other books, was a problem for me. I had a very hard time keeping track of all the characters, all their relationships, and the magical powers they possessed. That’s not the authors fault, it is my fault. I would suggest to read the books in order so that you know who everyone is and how they are related.
The writing style flows easily and this book is a fast read. Janet Chapman writes very descriptively and it is easy to picture what she is writing about in your head. Her descriptions of Spellbound Falls had me wanting to go there to visit.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a magical, mystical book. But as I said before, I would recommend reading the books in order.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Jerjen
The Highlander Next Door by Janet Chapman is a book that combines romance, mystery and magic. This is the sixth book in the Spellbound Falls Series.
Birch Callahan runs a women’s shelter and she is fiercely loyal and protective of those who reside in the shelter. She has brought her mother to live with her because she is afraid if her mother is left alone, she will find husband number five. Birch is very wary of all men and is not interested in having any permanent relationships. And she sure is not looking for anything developing between Niall MacKeage, the lawman who lives next door to the shelter. The two are always bumping heads and disagreeing about the abusive men that the women in the shelter are hiding from. Even Birch’s dog Mimi does not like Niall’s dog Shep and tries to attack Shep whenever she can. But legend says that the mist from Spellbound Falls carries love and no one is immune to it’s magic. Will Birch and Niall fall under the spell of the Falls?
Birch is a strong willed women who is not afraid to do whatever it takes to protect the women who live in the shelter. She presents a tough-as-nails exterior, not allowing others to see her more tender side. But deep down she has fears and longings like all women do. The more time she spends with Niall, the more she wants him to be the one to break down her walls.
Niall MacKeage is a time-traveler who has ended up in Spellbound Falls and has been chosen to be a lawman. He is big and brusque and intimidating. But he is also caring and compassionate and loyal. Even though Birch aggravates him most of the time, he finds himself falling for her and wanting to protect her. He must decide if he can trust her with the fact that he is a time traveler.
I really enjoyed the present day actions and storyline of Birch and Niall. The banter and bickering of the two characters are humorous and endearing. I really enjoyed reading how Birch kept trying to save the residents of the shelter and Niall trying to keep the peace in the community and trying to keep Birch safe.
What I did not enjoy so much was that, to me, there were too many characters introduced in the book. I think that the fact that this was the sixth book in the series, and I had not read any of the other books, was a problem for me. I had a very hard time keeping track of all the characters, all their relationships, and the magical powers they possessed. That’s not the authors fault, it is my fault. I would suggest to read the books in order so that you know who everyone is and how they are related.
The writing style flows easily and this book is a fast read. Janet Chapman writes very descriptively and it is easy to picture what she is writing about in your head. Her descriptions of Spellbound Falls had me wanting to go there to visit.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a magical, mystical book. But as I said before, I would recommend reading the books in order.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 19, 2014
Originally reviewed for Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy.
I've said it before but it's definitely true. Janet Chapman writes about the magic of love. Sure her stories have more than a little of magic of other kinds around but there is just something special in each of her books. The Highlander Next Door isn't always the perfect book but it leaves the reader with a warmth and the belief that love is waiting for us. That you just need to believe and it will come. Of course Spellbound Falls very existence is based on an act of love so huge, so mythical that it moved mountains (literally). So the people understand the importance of true love. Even though most of them aren't aware of the magic that runs deep in their little slice of Maine.
Birch Callahan stopped believing in happily ever after sometime around the age of 6... A child of a teenage mésalliance Birch has watched her mother marry unsuitable sleaze after unsuitable sleaze and her father never really love at all. She wants to believe in something more but with her observations it's hard. In fact she moved to Spellbound falls just to get her mother away from her latest sleaze. Even went as far as to tell her mother that it was against the law to marry more than four times in America (totally made me grin). She is convinced that this time she can protect her mother. Now all she has to worry about is protecting herself from the sexy sheriff next door.
Niall MacKeage accepted Oceanuses offer to travel forwards in time and attempt to win his daughter's hand in marriage. That didn't work out so well BUT he liked it in this time and decided to stay. Offered the position of Sherriff, Niall is determined to fit in. Except he also refuses to arrest someone just because his wife's ticked at him. Now how does he explain to Birch that he's not a woman hater and he believes in protecting them? And if at all possible how can he convince her to look his way?
Birch and Niall may be on opposite sides of how they go about serving the community and providing shelter and protection for abused women but they both believe in the cause. So gradually they let down their fences and become a bit more neighborly. Attraction is sparking but a newly minted god and a con family from Canada have other plans.
Will the danger surrounding Spellbound Falls break them apart or bring them together?
A sweet and charming read. Worth the time.. and yes it reminds us all that love abounds!
Shauni
I've said it before but it's definitely true. Janet Chapman writes about the magic of love. Sure her stories have more than a little of magic of other kinds around but there is just something special in each of her books. The Highlander Next Door isn't always the perfect book but it leaves the reader with a warmth and the belief that love is waiting for us. That you just need to believe and it will come. Of course Spellbound Falls very existence is based on an act of love so huge, so mythical that it moved mountains (literally). So the people understand the importance of true love. Even though most of them aren't aware of the magic that runs deep in their little slice of Maine.
Birch Callahan stopped believing in happily ever after sometime around the age of 6... A child of a teenage mésalliance Birch has watched her mother marry unsuitable sleaze after unsuitable sleaze and her father never really love at all. She wants to believe in something more but with her observations it's hard. In fact she moved to Spellbound falls just to get her mother away from her latest sleaze. Even went as far as to tell her mother that it was against the law to marry more than four times in America (totally made me grin). She is convinced that this time she can protect her mother. Now all she has to worry about is protecting herself from the sexy sheriff next door.
Niall MacKeage accepted Oceanuses offer to travel forwards in time and attempt to win his daughter's hand in marriage. That didn't work out so well BUT he liked it in this time and decided to stay. Offered the position of Sherriff, Niall is determined to fit in. Except he also refuses to arrest someone just because his wife's ticked at him. Now how does he explain to Birch that he's not a woman hater and he believes in protecting them? And if at all possible how can he convince her to look his way?
Birch and Niall may be on opposite sides of how they go about serving the community and providing shelter and protection for abused women but they both believe in the cause. So gradually they let down their fences and become a bit more neighborly. Attraction is sparking but a newly minted god and a con family from Canada have other plans.
Will the danger surrounding Spellbound Falls break them apart or bring them together?
A sweet and charming read. Worth the time.. and yes it reminds us all that love abounds!
Shauni
September 12, 2014
Genre: Romance/paranormal/Time travel related
Author: Janet Chapman
Book: The Highlander Next Door (Spellbound Falls #6)
My Star Rating: 4 out of 5
Will I read I read it again? Maybe
This review is my honest opinion and I have fully read this book.
I love Janet Chapman and all of her series. Some of her books are 5 out of 5 and then others are 4 out of 5. This one is 4 out of 5. I liked this one but I didn’t LOVE it.
Usually I can fall into one of her books and fall in love with all the characters. In this book her main character Birch was kind of annoying. I felt that she really stuck her foot in a lot of things she should have not done or if she did do she should really be smart about how she did it.
I really had a problem with how Birch was in this book. I rolled my eyes when she did need Chief Niall had to rescue her. Because again she was not being smart. In real life she could have been killed because she was stupid on how to go about doing things.
What did redeem the book for me were the other characters in this book. Chief Niall was great as well as his First officer. I also can’t wait to read more of her books about the newest god. It was also great to see new faces as well as some of the old faces in here.
Over all I did like the read and still love Janet Chapman and can’t wait for her other books.
November 9, 2014
Although I enjoyed this book, it took quite a while for me to feel anything but annoyance with the heroine. Birch Callahan has just moved from Montreal to Maine to run the new Women's Shelter in Spellbound Falls. She starts off as arrogant (she knows better than anyone else), abrasive (she curses a blue streak, mostly in French) and while not a man-hater, certainly someone who doesn't like most men!! She is bound and determined to be a strong, independent female. While I have no problem with this type of character, her attempts at being "strong" often bordered on downright rude and obnoxious. Meanwhile, our hero, Niall MacKeage, who we have met in previous books, is simply a man trying to do his best for the people who have hired him as sheriff of their magical little town. As these two come to know each other, many of Birch's rough edges smooth out, and they begin to work together to solve the town's problems. When Birch is the one threatened, the book becomes a fast ride, as the men from the other books in this series work together to set things right.
All in all, this is a good book, and I did already check to see if another one was in the works, but I certainly hope Ms. Chapman's next heroine is not SO strong that she comes off as someone you might love to hate!
All in all, this is a good book, and I did already check to see if another one was in the works, but I certainly hope Ms. Chapman's next heroine is not SO strong that she comes off as someone you might love to hate!
August 26, 2014
Spotlight, Review & Giveaway: The Highlander Next Door (Spellbound Falls #6) by Janet Chapman http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-1xp
Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Rated: 4 Stars
REVIEW:
Another fun and exciting trip back to Spellbound Falls with its lovely inhabitants. It took me a little bit to warm up to Birch (I just love her name). She was too much of a bitch for me to believe Niall or anyone would fall for her but I carried on because I love these stories. Thankfully her behavior changed and she became worthy of Niall. Now him I liked from the start. With his Highlander heritage struggling to conform to modern times he was quite enjoyable. This fun romance was exciting and filled with danger. Past characters I grew to love are there and add the sense of camaraderie that makes you feel a part of things. You can read this book as a stand-alone, but reading the series makes it easier to understand the magic and backstory of this wonderful little area.
*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Rated: 4 Stars
REVIEW:
Another fun and exciting trip back to Spellbound Falls with its lovely inhabitants. It took me a little bit to warm up to Birch (I just love her name). She was too much of a bitch for me to believe Niall or anyone would fall for her but I carried on because I love these stories. Thankfully her behavior changed and she became worthy of Niall. Now him I liked from the start. With his Highlander heritage struggling to conform to modern times he was quite enjoyable. This fun romance was exciting and filled with danger. Past characters I grew to love are there and add the sense of camaraderie that makes you feel a part of things. You can read this book as a stand-alone, but reading the series makes it easier to understand the magic and backstory of this wonderful little area.
*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2014
I can't not believe there is a Janet Chapman book that I don't love but The Highlander Next Door is it. I am so disappointed in this book. Her books are mostly romance and the Hero is a Hero. This book not so much. There was very little romance between Niall and Birch and I really never did like Birch. She was such a bitch to everybody mostly Niall and when she finally decided she wanted to sleep with him there was nothing romantic at all about it. She walked in and got into his bed. There were too many secondary characters in this book to keep up with. If you have never read any of her other highlander books then you will be confused at who is who. The fight scene at the compound with all the men didn't make any sense to me other than to add some magic and lightening to the story. Even the story line with Birch being the director of the women's shelter was scattered.
If you want to read some really good Janet Chapman check out her original highlander series staring with Charming The Highlander. Fantastic book.
If you want to read some really good Janet Chapman check out her original highlander series staring with Charming The Highlander. Fantastic book.
November 6, 2014
I really liked the earlier Highlander books by Janet Chapman, but I began to shy away from the books that focus on royalty from Atlantis rearranging the land- and seascape of Maine's geography. Now this author has added the creation of new gods [presumably the forest god is benevolent], and my enthusiasm has dropped to a new low.
As another reviewer wrote, if you like the idea of 12th century Scots warriors arriving in 20th-21st century Maine and learning to live with contemporary heroines, by all means read Janet Chapman's earlier books.
As another reviewer wrote, if you like the idea of 12th century Scots warriors arriving in 20th-21st century Maine and learning to live with contemporary heroines, by all means read Janet Chapman's earlier books.
March 29, 2015
This is why one should not judge a book by its cover or title. Such promise! But it is part of a larger series. The author tried to "catch" the reader up, but it just did not work. So the first several chapters were other character's back stories and it was all just so confusing. It was then hard to get into the story. I read a little over half, but it just never clicked. Maybe for Janet Chapman fans it is a great read, but for me, not so much.
August 26, 2014
This is in the 3.5 star land - Birch is a little hard to take at times but overall I really enjoyed the story and appreciated the movement it gives to the larger arc of the storyline.
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January 14, 2022This book is #6 in a series of which I haven't read any of the previous books. Time travel and magic seem to make everything perfect in Spellbound Falls.
I got a good sense of the main two characters. She seemed shrewish and he liked his dog too much. I just couldn't get into it.
I got a good sense of the main two characters. She seemed shrewish and he liked his dog too much. I just couldn't get into it.
March 9, 2023
sexy hot and sweet.
Still one of my favorite reads because it's just so hilarious with Naill and Birch's sauciness
Still one of my favorite reads because it's just so hilarious with Naill and Birch's sauciness
November 30, 2014
A cute story with some paranormal but not a lot.
July 27, 2017
The Highlander Next Door turned out to be totally different from what I expected, and I'm having difficulties in deciding if that's a good or a bad thing.
The beginning of the book was extremely confusing, but that's mostly my fault since The Highlander Next Door is book six in the Spellbound Falls Romance series and I didn't read any of the previous five books. It was hard to place all the characters and it was hard to even decide what was the main subject of the book. Definitely not to be read stand alone.
And frankly, all that magic stuff mixed with time traveling highlanders and ancient gods popping out here and there, is a bit weird. I happen to like time travel romance novels and I have nothing against a well written paranormal book, but The Highlander Next Door was a bit too over the top for me.
There were also some details in the story that irked me, like for example Birch saying that she would never consider Niall as husband material because cops don't make enough money. Sex and and affair are Ok, but not marriage. Really? And Niall is the one supposed to have 12th century mentality? I'm all in favor of people being realistic in their relationships, but is marriage supposed to be just about money? Shouldn't there be love involved too?
Well, to sum things up, The Highlander Next Door didn't work for me, I couldn't really get into the story and the characters, not in the romantic part of the plot neither in the suspense part. But as I didn't read the previous books, to be fair I'm rating this one with three stars and I leave it up to you to decided if you want to give it a try or not.
The beginning of the book was extremely confusing, but that's mostly my fault since The Highlander Next Door is book six in the Spellbound Falls Romance series and I didn't read any of the previous five books. It was hard to place all the characters and it was hard to even decide what was the main subject of the book. Definitely not to be read stand alone.
And frankly, all that magic stuff mixed with time traveling highlanders and ancient gods popping out here and there, is a bit weird. I happen to like time travel romance novels and I have nothing against a well written paranormal book, but The Highlander Next Door was a bit too over the top for me.
There were also some details in the story that irked me, like for example Birch saying that she would never consider Niall as husband material because cops don't make enough money. Sex and and affair are Ok, but not marriage. Really? And Niall is the one supposed to have 12th century mentality? I'm all in favor of people being realistic in their relationships, but is marriage supposed to be just about money? Shouldn't there be love involved too?
Well, to sum things up, The Highlander Next Door didn't work for me, I couldn't really get into the story and the characters, not in the romantic part of the plot neither in the suspense part. But as I didn't read the previous books, to be fair I'm rating this one with three stars and I leave it up to you to decided if you want to give it a try or not.
July 25, 2020
I tried. I really, really tried. But, sadly, DNF @ 30%
Honestly, I'm kind of surprised I lasted as long as I did. While the writing is just as good as any other Chapman book I've read, I just hate these MCs!
Birch was pretty much ruined for me in the opening chapter when she threatens to use bear spray on Niall's dog.
She eventually apologizes (like 80 pages later), but for me, the damage was done. I'm not sure how Niall could forgive that.
Not that Niall is a perfect prince or anything. At one point, the author reminds us that Niall had tried to pick up a 16-year-old at some point after he came into the future.
Look, I know that was the "norm" back in the 1300s, but I don't need that much reality in my romance novels. Let's keep everyone attracted to adults, please.
Truthfully, there's just no chemistry between these two at all anyway. I stopped at about 150 pages, and after all that time, I still could not understand why Niall was bothering with this woman. Is the town just empty of single people? That's the only explanation I could come up with. So, characters I dislike and no romance?
Honestly, I'm kind of surprised I lasted as long as I did. While the writing is just as good as any other Chapman book I've read, I just hate these MCs!
Birch was pretty much ruined for me in the opening chapter when she threatens to use bear spray on Niall's dog.
She eventually apologizes (like 80 pages later), but for me, the damage was done. I'm not sure how Niall could forgive that.
Not that Niall is a perfect prince or anything. At one point, the author reminds us that Niall had tried to pick up a 16-year-old at some point after he came into the future.
Look, I know that was the "norm" back in the 1300s, but I don't need that much reality in my romance novels. Let's keep everyone attracted to adults, please.
Truthfully, there's just no chemistry between these two at all anyway. I stopped at about 150 pages, and after all that time, I still could not understand why Niall was bothering with this woman. Is the town just empty of single people? That's the only explanation I could come up with. So, characters I dislike and no romance?
August 6, 2017
It has been awhile since I visited the world of IAD and so I worried I'd be lost but should have known better. Kresley Cole's characters are so strong and this one picked up right after the last one on the island that a lot of the characters were held imprisoned. Thronos and Lanthe have known each other for well over five hundred years and since a tragic night when Lanthe was a child she has run from him and he has spent the five hundred years hunting her down. He has finally caught up to her and has sworn to torture her as she has tortured him. She is his mate and though he hates her he needs her. Fortunately for them, they get thrust into an adventure through multiple dimensions when she tries to escape him. They learn to see each other as they truly are and work through five hundred years of war between the two. I loved the two characters and I loved their adventure. The most poignant moment happens near the end when Morgana, Queen of all Sorceri, tries to separate the two mates once they finally commit to each other. I won't say what the event was but it was definitely an emotionally tense moment. Great characters, great plot, great conflict, loved every second of the book.
July 22, 2020
I am totally amazed that I enjoyed this book as much as I did because it is not really the sort of books that I read. This series of Spellbound Falls has been delightful with stories of magic and love. Birch Callahan came to Spellbound Falls to start a safe place for abused women because of her mother's history with men and her four marriages. The town decided about the same time that they needed a police department and part of having free housing would be for Niall MacKeage to also watch over the women in her care. This highlander was just what she needed and the story just keeps getting better. Great story
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