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Highland Hearts #3
Crimson Heart
As the illegitimate daughter of King Henry VIII, Elena Seymour has spent most of her life in hiding. Keeping her royal blood a secret has been a success for years, but now, with a new, fiercely Catholic queen on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker is being targeted. And when Bloody Mary discovers Elena's lineage, she must not only flee to Scotland for her freedom, but also for her life.
Highland warrior Searc Munro has secrets of his own. In a family of healers, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Searc's secret is revealed. No longer welcome in his clan, he sets off alone, only to find another use for his magic—to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Searc head toward Edinburgh to find refuge. Yet, with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor attempting to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion turns to Searc as word of an illegitimate British heir reaches the country. Now, the two must find a way to trust each other, despite their secrets, before it's too late.
Highland warrior Searc Munro has secrets of his own. In a family of healers, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Searc's secret is revealed. No longer welcome in his clan, he sets off alone, only to find another use for his magic—to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Searc head toward Edinburgh to find refuge. Yet, with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor attempting to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion turns to Searc as word of an illegitimate British heir reaches the country. Now, the two must find a way to trust each other, despite their secrets, before it's too late.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2014
163 people are currently reading
441 people want to read
About the author
Heather McCollum
62 books1,087 followersI am Heather McCollum, writer of 16th and 17th century Scottish romance full of adventure and intrigue, sprinkled with humor, history, and spice. Brawny Highlanders and feisty heroines are my favorite characters!
I am also a mom of three kids, dog-mom of one rescued geriatric golden retriever, and wife of one 6 foot 4 inch Highlander. When I’m not trying to help my kids make it through the day, baking things I see on The Great British Baking Show, or writing, I’m usually educating women on ovarian cancer (I’m a nine-year survivor).
I love kilted heroes, chai lattes, and eating buttered air-popped popcorn for dinner on Friday nights (my dog loves this one too).
If you’re interested in my new releases, fun historical tidbits, sales, and giveaways, sign up for my newsletter!
Newsletter https://www.heathermccollum.com/newsl...
And you are welcome to stalk me here as well:
Twitter https://twitter.com/HMcCollumAuthor
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This author also writes under: Eleri Drake
I am also a mom of three kids, dog-mom of one rescued geriatric golden retriever, and wife of one 6 foot 4 inch Highlander. When I’m not trying to help my kids make it through the day, baking things I see on The Great British Baking Show, or writing, I’m usually educating women on ovarian cancer (I’m a nine-year survivor).
I love kilted heroes, chai lattes, and eating buttered air-popped popcorn for dinner on Friday nights (my dog loves this one too).
If you’re interested in my new releases, fun historical tidbits, sales, and giveaways, sign up for my newsletter!
Newsletter https://www.heathermccollum.com/newsl...
And you are welcome to stalk me here as well:
Twitter https://twitter.com/HMcCollumAuthor
FB https://www.facebook.com/HeatherMcCol...
Pinterest http://www.pinterest.com/hmccollumaut...
This author also writes under: Eleri Drake
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 15, 2022
Crimson Heart
Highland Hearts #3
Heather McCollum
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Elena Seymour has spent most of her life in hiding as she is a daughter of King Henry VIII. Keeping her royal blood a secret has been a success ever since she was hidden away, but now, with Queen Mary on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker has told her she must run because if the Queen finds out about her, her life may be forfeit.
Serc Munro is a Highland warrior who has been harboring a deep secret for most of his life. In a family of healers with good magic, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Serc has no option but to unleash his own magic, revealing his secret to his clan. Now he feels no longer welcome so he sets off alone, only to find he must use his magic again to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Serc head towards Edinburgh to find a man that she was told might be able to help her, but with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor trying to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion quickly turns to Serc as word of an illegitimate British heir reaches Edinburgh. Now Serc and Elena must find a way to trust each other, despite the secrets they each hold, before it's too late.
Wow just wow. This book was incredible. Heather McCollum is absolutely fantastic. This book had my attention from the get go. You Never Knew what was going to happen next. There was non stop action that kept me on the edge of my seat. The two main characters were so great together. Serc and Elena were made for each other. Even the reader did not know the extent of Elena's secrets until you were well into the book. This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys historical fiction and historical romance.
Highland Hearts #3
Heather McCollum
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Elena Seymour has spent most of her life in hiding as she is a daughter of King Henry VIII. Keeping her royal blood a secret has been a success ever since she was hidden away, but now, with Queen Mary on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker has told her she must run because if the Queen finds out about her, her life may be forfeit.
Serc Munro is a Highland warrior who has been harboring a deep secret for most of his life. In a family of healers with good magic, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Serc has no option but to unleash his own magic, revealing his secret to his clan. Now he feels no longer welcome so he sets off alone, only to find he must use his magic again to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Serc head towards Edinburgh to find a man that she was told might be able to help her, but with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor trying to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion quickly turns to Serc as word of an illegitimate British heir reaches Edinburgh. Now Serc and Elena must find a way to trust each other, despite the secrets they each hold, before it's too late.
Wow just wow. This book was incredible. Heather McCollum is absolutely fantastic. This book had my attention from the get go. You Never Knew what was going to happen next. There was non stop action that kept me on the edge of my seat. The two main characters were so great together. Serc and Elena were made for each other. Even the reader did not know the extent of Elena's secrets until you were well into the book. This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys historical fiction and historical romance.
July 11, 2014
Review Courtesy All Things Urban Fantasy
CRIMSON HEART marks the first time I’ve read a book in a series without having read the ones that came before – but kilts and magic? Then adding in the bonus of a historical bent? Come on. It’s a complete home-run, book wise. For me, anyway.
Truth told, if I were reading this for my personal collection, I’d probably have rated it higher, but since the focus of ATUF is urban fantasy and paranormal works, I have to factor that into the review. Don’t get me wrong, there is a paranormal aspect to the story through the gifts bestowed on Searc and his family, and it plays an integral part of the plot. The majority of the story, though, is a historical romance focusing on the time of Mary Queen of Scots and the unrest in Scotland at the time.
Full disclosure aside, I truly enjoyed CRIMSON HEART and can’t wait to read the others in the series before it. There’s just enough history, humor, drama, romance, mystery and history without it feeling bogged down by any of those. The mystery kept me guessing, the romance had me smiling, and I laughed out loud several times. Not to mention all the tugging on my heartstrings from Searc, and his wonderful family.
Even though part of a series, CRIMSON HEART is complete in itself with no cliffhangers left behind. Searc and Elena are richly developed characters and I loved reading their journey together. The supporting characters, especially Marie de Guise, made their story even better and one I wouldn’t mind revisiting.All Things Urban Fantasy
CRIMSON HEART marks the first time I’ve read a book in a series without having read the ones that came before – but kilts and magic? Then adding in the bonus of a historical bent? Come on. It’s a complete home-run, book wise. For me, anyway.
Truth told, if I were reading this for my personal collection, I’d probably have rated it higher, but since the focus of ATUF is urban fantasy and paranormal works, I have to factor that into the review. Don’t get me wrong, there is a paranormal aspect to the story through the gifts bestowed on Searc and his family, and it plays an integral part of the plot. The majority of the story, though, is a historical romance focusing on the time of Mary Queen of Scots and the unrest in Scotland at the time.
Full disclosure aside, I truly enjoyed CRIMSON HEART and can’t wait to read the others in the series before it. There’s just enough history, humor, drama, romance, mystery and history without it feeling bogged down by any of those. The mystery kept me guessing, the romance had me smiling, and I laughed out loud several times. Not to mention all the tugging on my heartstrings from Searc, and his wonderful family.
Even though part of a series, CRIMSON HEART is complete in itself with no cliffhangers left behind. Searc and Elena are richly developed characters and I loved reading their journey together. The supporting characters, especially Marie de Guise, made their story even better and one I wouldn’t mind revisiting.All Things Urban Fantasy
August 28, 2014
Elena has spent her entire life hiding her family name while walking the thin line between lady and servant in a Protestant household. Keeping the secret of her lineage has been a success for years, but now, with a new, fiercely Catholic queen on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker is being targeted. And when Bloody Mary discovers Elena's true identity, she must not only flee to Scotland for her freedom, but also for her life.
Highland warrior, Searc Munro, has secrets of his own. In a family of healers, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Searc unleashes his lethal power to save him. With his clan's suspicious glances and whispers plaguing him, he sets off alone, only to find another use for his magic in saving a beautiful lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Searc head toward Edinburg to find refuge. Yet, with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor attempting to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion turns to Searc. As word of another British heir reaches the country, the two must find a way to trust each other, despite their secrets, before it's too late.
Another book that I can add to my reading historical romance about the Highlanders.
Crimson Heart was a very enjoyable book to read, well written, with a good plot and interesting characters.
The magic and the power that Searc has since his birth, or a curse, as is experienced by the man, adds something different to this story; he's intense as fictional character, a littore dark, but brave, loyal, stubborn and a man of honor.
I liked him immediately, although he's a man carrying the weight of his power, isolates from the others, he escapes from his loved ones for fear to see in their eyes a look full of fear for what he is; But when the times get tough, he puts aside everything and the Warrior in him takes the place of a man tormented by a thousand doubts and feelings of guilt.
Elena is also a very unique woman, she's hiding her true identity because she wants to live a free life and away from intrigues and conspiracies related to her actual bloodline. She prefers rather to work for some family beside that claim her title, but this choice is not enthused that other people would like to use her. Courageous, even if sometimes due to her naivety things escape a little from her hand, intelligent and she's not scared from Search and his magic, despite all the superstitions of the time.
Their trip to Edinburgh becomes a real adventure, in which the attraction they feel for one another will have its importance.
They are a lovely couple, but I liked also the minor characters: Searc's parents, the Munro, a beautiful couple their love, complicity and irony are obvious and Mary, the Queen, is a remarkable woman, funny but dangerously fatal.
A story in which I found several interesting components: intrigue, secrets, a mystery tied to the horrible death of several innocent girls, passion, love and magic.
In short, a lot of things I would say.
Thanks to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the book.
Elena ha trascorso la sua intera vita tenendo nascosto il vero nome della sua famiglia, vivendo al limite tra l'essere una nobildonna e parte della servitù in una famiglia di fede protestante. Tenere il segreto sulle sue origine è stato per anni un successo, ma ora con una nuova agguerrita regina cattolica sul trono, i protettori protestanti di Elena vengono presi di mira. E quando Mary la sanguinaria, scopre la reale identità di Elena,la ragazza si vede costretta a scappare in Scozia per difendere non solo la sua libertà, ma la sua stessa vita.
Searc Munro, il guerriero delle Highland, ha anche lui un segreto. In una famiglia di guaritori come la sua, la magia oscura che possiede, che può uccidere, deve essere tenuta nascosta. Ma quando la vita del padre viene minacciata, Searc lascia libero il suo potere letale per salvarlo. Afflitto dagli sguardi pieni di sospetto e dai mormorii nel suo clan, decide di andarsene via da solo, trovandosi invece poi costretto un'altra volta a usare la sua magia per salvare una bellissima ragazza aggredita nella foresta.
Compagni d'esilio Elena e Searc si dirigono verso Edinburgo per trovare rifugio. Invece una serie di omicidi rituali che affliggono la città e un traditore che tenta di assassinare la reggente di Scozia, fanno ricadere i sospetti su Searc. Quando le voci dell'esistenza di un altro erede al trono britannico raggiungono il Paese, i due devono trovare il modo di fidarsi uno dell'altra, nonostante i loro segreti, prima che sia troppo tardi.
Altro libro che va ad aggiungersi alle mie letture historical romance che hanno per protagonisti gli Highlander.
Crimson Heart è stata un libro molto gradevole da leggere, scritto bene, con una buona trama e dei personaggi interessanti.
La magia del cui potere Searc è dotato sin dalla nascita, o più una maledizione, visto come viene vissuta dall'uomo, aggiunge qualcosa di diverso a questa storia; è un personaggio intenso, un po' cupo, ma coraggioso, leale, testardo e un uomo d'onore.
Mi è piaciuto da subito, nonostante sia un uomo che porta un po' con difficoltà il peso del suo potere, si isola dagli altri, fugge dai suoi cari per la paura di vedere nei loro occhi lo sguardo di persone impaurite o disprezzo per quello che lui è. Ma nei momenti che ontano tutto questo viene messo da parte e il guerriero che è in lui prende il posto dell'uomo tormentato da mille dubbi e sensi di colpa.
Elena è anche lei una donna molto singolare, nasconde la sua vera identità perché vuole vivere una vita libera e lontana da intrighi e complotti legati al suo sangue reale. Preferisce piuttosto lavorare presso qualche famiglia che rivendicare il suo titolo, ma la scelta non entusiasma altre persone che invece la vorrebbero usare. Coraggiosa, anche se a volte a causa della sua ingenuità le cose le sfuggono un po' di mano, intelligente e non si lascia spaventare da Searc e la sua magia, una volta che lo incontra, nonostante tutte le superstizioni dell'epoca.
Il loro viaggio per Edinburgo diventa una vera e propria avventura, nella quale l'attrazione che provano uno verso l'altro avrà la una importanza.
Loro sono una bella coppia, ma anche i personaggi secondari mi sono piaciuti: i genitori di Searc, i Munro, a loro volta una bellissima coppia nella quale amore, complicità e ironia sono evidenti e Mary, la regina, è una donna notevole, divertente ma pericolosamente letale.
Una storia nella quale ho trovato diverse componenti interessanti: intrighi, segreti, un mistero legato alla morte orribile di diverse ragazze innocenti, passione, amore e magia.
Insomma un bel po' di cose direi.
Ringrazio Netgalley e la Entangled Publishing LLC per il libro.
Highland warrior, Searc Munro, has secrets of his own. In a family of healers, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Searc unleashes his lethal power to save him. With his clan's suspicious glances and whispers plaguing him, he sets off alone, only to find another use for his magic in saving a beautiful lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Searc head toward Edinburg to find refuge. Yet, with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor attempting to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion turns to Searc. As word of another British heir reaches the country, the two must find a way to trust each other, despite their secrets, before it's too late.
Another book that I can add to my reading historical romance about the Highlanders.
Crimson Heart was a very enjoyable book to read, well written, with a good plot and interesting characters.
The magic and the power that Searc has since his birth, or a curse, as is experienced by the man, adds something different to this story; he's intense as fictional character, a littore dark, but brave, loyal, stubborn and a man of honor.
I liked him immediately, although he's a man carrying the weight of his power, isolates from the others, he escapes from his loved ones for fear to see in their eyes a look full of fear for what he is; But when the times get tough, he puts aside everything and the Warrior in him takes the place of a man tormented by a thousand doubts and feelings of guilt.
Elena is also a very unique woman, she's hiding her true identity because she wants to live a free life and away from intrigues and conspiracies related to her actual bloodline. She prefers rather to work for some family beside that claim her title, but this choice is not enthused that other people would like to use her. Courageous, even if sometimes due to her naivety things escape a little from her hand, intelligent and she's not scared from Search and his magic, despite all the superstitions of the time.
Their trip to Edinburgh becomes a real adventure, in which the attraction they feel for one another will have its importance.
They are a lovely couple, but I liked also the minor characters: Searc's parents, the Munro, a beautiful couple their love, complicity and irony are obvious and Mary, the Queen, is a remarkable woman, funny but dangerously fatal.
A story in which I found several interesting components: intrigue, secrets, a mystery tied to the horrible death of several innocent girls, passion, love and magic.
In short, a lot of things I would say.
Thanks to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the book.
Elena ha trascorso la sua intera vita tenendo nascosto il vero nome della sua famiglia, vivendo al limite tra l'essere una nobildonna e parte della servitù in una famiglia di fede protestante. Tenere il segreto sulle sue origine è stato per anni un successo, ma ora con una nuova agguerrita regina cattolica sul trono, i protettori protestanti di Elena vengono presi di mira. E quando Mary la sanguinaria, scopre la reale identità di Elena,la ragazza si vede costretta a scappare in Scozia per difendere non solo la sua libertà, ma la sua stessa vita.
Searc Munro, il guerriero delle Highland, ha anche lui un segreto. In una famiglia di guaritori come la sua, la magia oscura che possiede, che può uccidere, deve essere tenuta nascosta. Ma quando la vita del padre viene minacciata, Searc lascia libero il suo potere letale per salvarlo. Afflitto dagli sguardi pieni di sospetto e dai mormorii nel suo clan, decide di andarsene via da solo, trovandosi invece poi costretto un'altra volta a usare la sua magia per salvare una bellissima ragazza aggredita nella foresta.
Compagni d'esilio Elena e Searc si dirigono verso Edinburgo per trovare rifugio. Invece una serie di omicidi rituali che affliggono la città e un traditore che tenta di assassinare la reggente di Scozia, fanno ricadere i sospetti su Searc. Quando le voci dell'esistenza di un altro erede al trono britannico raggiungono il Paese, i due devono trovare il modo di fidarsi uno dell'altra, nonostante i loro segreti, prima che sia troppo tardi.
Altro libro che va ad aggiungersi alle mie letture historical romance che hanno per protagonisti gli Highlander.
Crimson Heart è stata un libro molto gradevole da leggere, scritto bene, con una buona trama e dei personaggi interessanti.
La magia del cui potere Searc è dotato sin dalla nascita, o più una maledizione, visto come viene vissuta dall'uomo, aggiunge qualcosa di diverso a questa storia; è un personaggio intenso, un po' cupo, ma coraggioso, leale, testardo e un uomo d'onore.
Mi è piaciuto da subito, nonostante sia un uomo che porta un po' con difficoltà il peso del suo potere, si isola dagli altri, fugge dai suoi cari per la paura di vedere nei loro occhi lo sguardo di persone impaurite o disprezzo per quello che lui è. Ma nei momenti che ontano tutto questo viene messo da parte e il guerriero che è in lui prende il posto dell'uomo tormentato da mille dubbi e sensi di colpa.
Elena è anche lei una donna molto singolare, nasconde la sua vera identità perché vuole vivere una vita libera e lontana da intrighi e complotti legati al suo sangue reale. Preferisce piuttosto lavorare presso qualche famiglia che rivendicare il suo titolo, ma la scelta non entusiasma altre persone che invece la vorrebbero usare. Coraggiosa, anche se a volte a causa della sua ingenuità le cose le sfuggono un po' di mano, intelligente e non si lascia spaventare da Searc e la sua magia, una volta che lo incontra, nonostante tutte le superstizioni dell'epoca.
Il loro viaggio per Edinburgo diventa una vera e propria avventura, nella quale l'attrazione che provano uno verso l'altro avrà la una importanza.
Loro sono una bella coppia, ma anche i personaggi secondari mi sono piaciuti: i genitori di Searc, i Munro, a loro volta una bellissima coppia nella quale amore, complicità e ironia sono evidenti e Mary, la regina, è una donna notevole, divertente ma pericolosamente letale.
Una storia nella quale ho trovato diverse componenti interessanti: intrighi, segreti, un mistero legato alla morte orribile di diverse ragazze innocenti, passione, amore e magia.
Insomma un bel po' di cose direi.
Ringrazio Netgalley e la Entangled Publishing LLC per il libro.
March 9, 2021
Searc Munro is my new book boyfriend....there, I've said it! lol Wow, such an exciting story Heather McCollum has written for him and Elena. This author always completely enraptures me with her stories. Being a series, we also reacquaint with characters from the previous books, something I always enjoy:)
Elena is quite the mighty warrior within her heart and is also quite good with a bow and arrow!! She's on the run and hiding a secret. Searc has left home, feeling like the clan can no longer trust him now that his magic powers have been revealed and is making his way to Edinburgh when he comes upon Elena being accosted by thieves. This is when their adventure begins and they end up being "guests" of the Queen Regent. Amidst political danger, suspicions, murders, secrets and not knowing who to trust, Searc and Elena become much closer and fragile trust is formed between them. With heated passion and humour added to the mix, you get a thoroughly enjoyable story:)
Elena is quite the mighty warrior within her heart and is also quite good with a bow and arrow!! She's on the run and hiding a secret. Searc has left home, feeling like the clan can no longer trust him now that his magic powers have been revealed and is making his way to Edinburgh when he comes upon Elena being accosted by thieves. This is when their adventure begins and they end up being "guests" of the Queen Regent. Amidst political danger, suspicions, murders, secrets and not knowing who to trust, Searc and Elena become much closer and fragile trust is formed between them. With heated passion and humour added to the mix, you get a thoroughly enjoyable story:)
November 17, 2020
Crimson Heart brings us to the end of the Highland Hearts series, and I have to say, it was definitely my favourite in the series. Although I missed the highland setting from the previous novella, the storyline in general was much more interesting than previous books in the series.
It was a little confusing to have skipped 15 years, especially when none of the other books in the series had time jumps, and I struggled at the beginning with not thinking of Searc as a child. However, I found Searc to be the most likeable love interest in the series, and Jane was probably the most likeable main character. Their chemistry was great, and I felt like the stakes were a lot more interesting and believable than the previous books in the series, although I was quite lost at times given the level of knowledge I have of English/Scottish history. I would say I have at least as much knowledge of this time period as the average reader, so I feel like the author could have given better historical background/context for the reader to understand.
There was a lot less sexism in this book than previous books in the series, although it did still manage to pop up, which was so frustrating. Heather McCollum, can you please stop with this? It's so unnecessary! I mean, the magic is different in men and women? Because women want to heal and men want to fight? You're joking, right?! What kind of backwards sexist fuckery is this. Also this is just a comment on historical romances in general, but men in historical romances always seem to prefer experienced widows - were there really that many experienced widows out there to sleep around with? It always just seems a bit off to me.
And can we talk about HOW FRUSTRATING THAT ENDING WAS?! I don't care if And that was just the end of the series? What about Kincaid? What about Judith? What happened? There were so many plot points that just weren't resolved, which is SO FRUSTRATING.
Look, apart from the ending, I found this pretty enjoyable. There were definitely things that could've been fixed and made it much better, but for the most part, it was a fun read.
It was a little confusing to have skipped 15 years, especially when none of the other books in the series had time jumps, and I struggled at the beginning with not thinking of Searc as a child. However, I found Searc to be the most likeable love interest in the series, and Jane was probably the most likeable main character. Their chemistry was great, and I felt like the stakes were a lot more interesting and believable than the previous books in the series, although I was quite lost at times given the level of knowledge I have of English/Scottish history. I would say I have at least as much knowledge of this time period as the average reader, so I feel like the author could have given better historical background/context for the reader to understand.
There was a lot less sexism in this book than previous books in the series, although it did still manage to pop up, which was so frustrating. Heather McCollum, can you please stop with this? It's so unnecessary! I mean, the magic is different in men and women? Because women want to heal and men want to fight? You're joking, right?! What kind of backwards sexist fuckery is this. Also this is just a comment on historical romances in general, but men in historical romances always seem to prefer experienced widows - were there really that many experienced widows out there to sleep around with? It always just seems a bit off to me.
And can we talk about HOW FRUSTRATING THAT ENDING WAS?! I don't care if And that was just the end of the series? What about Kincaid? What about Judith? What happened? There were so many plot points that just weren't resolved, which is SO FRUSTRATING.
Look, apart from the ending, I found this pretty enjoyable. There were definitely things that could've been fixed and made it much better, but for the most part, it was a fun read.
March 8, 2018
2.5 stars. This was not the best book in the series. All the political mush, mind games, and impending danger made my head spin.
July 24, 2014
Hotness Rating 3 out of 5
Crimson Heart is the third book of the Highland Hearts series by Heather McCollum, but can indeed be read alone. If you love a great historical, highlander story with just a touch of magic and fantasy you'll love this book!
Searc Munro was born with a curse that he's hidden from his family until one day when his father was seconds from being killed at the hands of an enemy. Without thought Searc allowed his rage to overtake him and he unleashed all of his fury literally sucking the life right of the man on the other end of the sword. Saving the life of his father was a good thing, but it didn't stop Searc from fleeing his family home. He couldn't bear to see the fear on the faces of his clansmen. Having no destination in mind Searc just kept moving. That is until he came across Elena.
Elena couldn't believe her luck when Searc happened upon her being accosted by some pretty bad characters. At least she thought it was luck until she really looked upon her savior. He was huge and sexy and very distracting. She has spent her whole life guarding her secrets and depending on only herself. To rely on anyone else would only put them in danger. But, circumstances and fate keeps throwing them together.
I love a highlander story. Some can be really hot and some can be sweet. This particular story was a good combination of the two. Searc was so sexy and all alpha highlander, but sweet and kind, as well. I can't wait to read more from the amazing Munro clan.
This book was provided to me from NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
Crimson Heart is the third book of the Highland Hearts series by Heather McCollum, but can indeed be read alone. If you love a great historical, highlander story with just a touch of magic and fantasy you'll love this book!
Searc Munro was born with a curse that he's hidden from his family until one day when his father was seconds from being killed at the hands of an enemy. Without thought Searc allowed his rage to overtake him and he unleashed all of his fury literally sucking the life right of the man on the other end of the sword. Saving the life of his father was a good thing, but it didn't stop Searc from fleeing his family home. He couldn't bear to see the fear on the faces of his clansmen. Having no destination in mind Searc just kept moving. That is until he came across Elena.
Elena couldn't believe her luck when Searc happened upon her being accosted by some pretty bad characters. At least she thought it was luck until she really looked upon her savior. He was huge and sexy and very distracting. She has spent her whole life guarding her secrets and depending on only herself. To rely on anyone else would only put them in danger. But, circumstances and fate keeps throwing them together.
I love a highlander story. Some can be really hot and some can be sweet. This particular story was a good combination of the two. Searc was so sexy and all alpha highlander, but sweet and kind, as well. I can't wait to read more from the amazing Munro clan.
This book was provided to me from NetGalley.com in exchange for my honest review.
You can find this review and others at www.riverinaromantics.com
July 6, 2014
Elena has led her entire life based on a lie. Always hiding her true identity lest she be used by others for political purposes. Searc has led a great life in the Highlands but he too bears a secret, a secret which he fears once revealed will make him an outcast. One fateful day him and his father are ambushed and he is forced to use his magic to save his father. From that day forward everyone looks at him just as he feared they would with worry and fear. He decides to leave his home and journey on his own. While on his travels he comes across a woman who is being corralled by a bunch of looters and steps in to save her. Once again he uses his gift to save another’s life. Elena is shocked not only by the size of the man who has come to her rescue but by his power as well. While she fears him at first she soon learns that he has a wonderful heart. They reach their destination and are immediate thrust into a quandary as many young women have been found dead with ritualistic markings. Searc will not leave Elena unprotected and wants to wed her as added protection as well as bring this killer to justice. This is a great tale of how what many see as evil is just the ignorance of the unknown; for nothing is truly good or evil it is the person who uses it that makes it so. Not a shabby love story either definitely recommend this book.
August 11, 2016
NetGalley Free Book
Elena is the child of King Henry VIII and cannot let anyone know. She is on the run and is afraid that if she gets caught she will be used as a pawn. Searc Munro has a deep secret also and has left his families clan so he will not accidentally not kill any member with his dark magic. The two meet up and sparks start to fly. They will have to help each other stay out of trouble.
This was such a well written novel. the characters were hilarious and the plot was well thought out. It is really important to me that when switching from one chapter to the next that the author does not get me lost and in this book those changes were very well done.
This book was very predictable. There was one surprise at the end but there was a reason why the reader could not figure it out. I cannot say what that was without giving the ending away. There were also some spots were it became a bit boring due to too much unnecessary writing and information.
Elena is the child of King Henry VIII and cannot let anyone know. She is on the run and is afraid that if she gets caught she will be used as a pawn. Searc Munro has a deep secret also and has left his families clan so he will not accidentally not kill any member with his dark magic. The two meet up and sparks start to fly. They will have to help each other stay out of trouble.
This was such a well written novel. the characters were hilarious and the plot was well thought out. It is really important to me that when switching from one chapter to the next that the author does not get me lost and in this book those changes were very well done.
This book was very predictable. There was one surprise at the end but there was a reason why the reader could not figure it out. I cannot say what that was without giving the ending away. There were also some spots were it became a bit boring due to too much unnecessary writing and information.
July 4, 2014
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
I received a copy of this book from the Entangled Publishing and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
This is not a story that you will want to skip around on. The author includes a mystery and if you skip around you may miss something and you will want to know what happens between Searc and Elena. There are scenes that may have you laughing and the author has an ending that will have you smiling. Highland Hearts has been a great series and this is one more book that makes it so. Heather knows what works to keep her readers coming back for more. Each book of the series could be read as a stand-alone but I feel it is a series that you will want to make sure and read them all. I’m also looking forward to seeing if she will continue the Highland Hearts series with another book.
I received a copy of this book from the Entangled Publishing and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
This is not a story that you will want to skip around on. The author includes a mystery and if you skip around you may miss something and you will want to know what happens between Searc and Elena. There are scenes that may have you laughing and the author has an ending that will have you smiling. Highland Hearts has been a great series and this is one more book that makes it so. Heather knows what works to keep her readers coming back for more. Each book of the series could be read as a stand-alone but I feel it is a series that you will want to make sure and read them all. I’m also looking forward to seeing if she will continue the Highland Hearts series with another book.
July 11, 2014
...hearts of the highlands
1554, Searc Munro, a disgraced highlander flees from the dark magic he harbours. Elena Seymour, an unknown and unacknowledged Tudor princess, illegitimate daughter to Henry VIII, fearing being used as a political pawn is struggling towards possible safety in Edinburgh when they meet. Mix in plots and counterplots between the English and the Scots, young women going missing and being found dead with strange markings on their bodies, add some healing highlander magic and tortured romance and you have all the elements neccesary for a love story with a difference.
A NetGalley ARC
1554, Searc Munro, a disgraced highlander flees from the dark magic he harbours. Elena Seymour, an unknown and unacknowledged Tudor princess, illegitimate daughter to Henry VIII, fearing being used as a political pawn is struggling towards possible safety in Edinburgh when they meet. Mix in plots and counterplots between the English and the Scots, young women going missing and being found dead with strange markings on their bodies, add some healing highlander magic and tortured romance and you have all the elements neccesary for a love story with a difference.
A NetGalley ARC
July 7, 2014
Wonderful book. I was given a e-copy of the novel for a honest review. I love reading about Scotland and Highlanders in particular. Without revealing too much, our hero believes that he cannot lead his clan because his special powers will get in the way. He leaves his clan and family. He runs into our heroine in the forest. She is a British royal who wants to escape their clutches. They decide to travel together. Later they meet with Queen Mary's regent, who takes a liking to them. Our couple falls in love and marries and haves their Happily Ever After.
July 26, 2014
Review to come...
January 19, 2023
Much better than expected
Thinking it.would be a light read but it was actually very entertaining and well written. I will definitely read more.of her books.
Thinking it.would be a light read but it was actually very entertaining and well written. I will definitely read more.of her books.
June 19, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Searc & Elena
◦Gender Reversal- Male Main Character with Powers
◦Searc has a magic in him that glows with red light instead of blue.
◦Unlike his mother's healing power, Searc's power kills- He steals the life out of people- leaving them shriveled and dead
◦Searc becomes stronger after using his power- superhuman strength
◦Searc has a wolf companion
◦Searc had to use his powers to save his dad. His dad looks fearful of him after he sees kill with a single touch.
◦He feels like he's a monster and must leave home
◦Searc saves a lady from a tree from a group of men- she runs because she saw him use his powers
◦Elena steps in a beehive
◦Elena is the legitimate daughter of King Henry VIII, Elena Seymour
◦Searc has a way with animals
◦Elena finds a body in a rug at the Inn
◦Young girls have been going missing in this village
◦Searc is arrested for the crime, Elena helps him escape and they go to find her cousin
◦Marriage of convenience
◦A twisty ending
◦Elena gives her life force so that Searc has the power to save his mother. It leaves her old and shriveled. Rachel is too weak to heal her. Rachel and Searc work together to return life energy back to Elena.
◦Searc and Elena return home with Rachel and Alec
◦Rachel is working on a tapestry that depicts Searc's red light as a good power
◦Searc's nephews have his birthmarks
◦I listened to the 10 hour audiobook
◦Narrated by Timothy Campbell 10/10
Searc & Elena
◦Gender Reversal- Male Main Character with Powers
◦Searc has a magic in him that glows with red light instead of blue.
◦Unlike his mother's healing power, Searc's power kills- He steals the life out of people- leaving them shriveled and dead
◦Searc becomes stronger after using his power- superhuman strength
◦Searc has a wolf companion
◦Searc had to use his powers to save his dad. His dad looks fearful of him after he sees kill with a single touch.
◦He feels like he's a monster and must leave home
◦Searc saves a lady from a tree from a group of men- she runs because she saw him use his powers
◦Elena steps in a beehive
◦Elena is the legitimate daughter of King Henry VIII, Elena Seymour
◦Searc has a way with animals
◦Elena finds a body in a rug at the Inn
◦Young girls have been going missing in this village
◦Searc is arrested for the crime, Elena helps him escape and they go to find her cousin
◦Marriage of convenience
◦A twisty ending
◦Elena gives her life force so that Searc has the power to save his mother. It leaves her old and shriveled. Rachel is too weak to heal her. Rachel and Searc work together to return life energy back to Elena.
◦Searc and Elena return home with Rachel and Alec
◦Rachel is working on a tapestry that depicts Searc's red light as a good power
◦Searc's nephews have his birthmarks
◦I listened to the 10 hour audiobook
◦Narrated by Timothy Campbell 10/10
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2023
Tim Campbell is an amazing narrator and Heather McCollum is an amazing writer!
I really enjoyed this installment- I loved the foreshadowing of Searc's powers in the previous books, and I absolutely loved the plot and climax of this story.
My only thoughts for a potential downside is it was sooo hard for me to stop seeing Searc as the boy who tagged along with Ewan and Dorry and see him as his own man full grown.
I loved seeing Alec and Rachel again. I would have loved more detail into their departure from Edinburgh- Specifically the Queen Regent's response. I know she heaped Searc with accolades, but was she sad to see him go? Did she try to tempt him into staying because she wanted him? I would also have loved more details about Elena's early childhood. It was discussed in various parts, but not SHOWN and I love to live through the characters I read.
I'm so sad that this is the last book in the series. I hope more are written soon!
I really enjoyed this installment- I loved the foreshadowing of Searc's powers in the previous books, and I absolutely loved the plot and climax of this story.
My only thoughts for a potential downside is it was sooo hard for me to stop seeing Searc as the boy who tagged along with Ewan and Dorry and see him as his own man full grown.
I loved seeing Alec and Rachel again. I would have loved more detail into their departure from Edinburgh- Specifically the Queen Regent's response. I know she heaped Searc with accolades, but was she sad to see him go? Did she try to tempt him into staying because she wanted him? I would also have loved more details about Elena's early childhood. It was discussed in various parts, but not SHOWN and I love to live through the characters I read.
I'm so sad that this is the last book in the series. I hope more are written soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2024
Crimson Heart by Heather McCollum
Searc is the clan chief’s son. His mother is a healer however there are those who call her a witch because of her powerful healing power. Searc feels his clan is fearful of him due to his own power that he might be able to kill others. For this reason he abandons his clan because he believes they have fear of him and honestly he has no idea how much of his power he can control.
During his travels he meets Elena who is being attacked by bad men who have her pinned in a tree. She is also running away from others and hiding her true identity. Searc rescues her with his strong power. He promised to get her to Edinburg. However soon these two find an attraction that neither one can deny!
Disclaimer: I received a free advance readers copy from Entangled publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair, review and blog through netgalley. All words, thoughts, ideas are my own.
Searc is the clan chief’s son. His mother is a healer however there are those who call her a witch because of her powerful healing power. Searc feels his clan is fearful of him due to his own power that he might be able to kill others. For this reason he abandons his clan because he believes they have fear of him and honestly he has no idea how much of his power he can control.
During his travels he meets Elena who is being attacked by bad men who have her pinned in a tree. She is also running away from others and hiding her true identity. Searc rescues her with his strong power. He promised to get her to Edinburg. However soon these two find an attraction that neither one can deny!
Disclaimer: I received a free advance readers copy from Entangled publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair, review and blog through netgalley. All words, thoughts, ideas are my own.
January 10, 2023
Crimson Heart boom 3 of the Highland Hearts by Heather McCollum
Elena Seymour has spent most of her life in hiding, she is the daughter of King Henry VIII. Shes been able to hid away, but now, with Queen Mary on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker has told her she must run because if the Queen finds out about her, her life may be forfeit.
Serc Munro is a Highland warrior who has been harboring a deep secret for most of his life. In a family of healers with good magic, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Serc has no option but to unleash his own magic, revealing his secret to his clan. Now he feels no longer welcome so he sets off alone, only to find he must use his magic again to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles
Elena Seymour has spent most of her life in hiding, she is the daughter of King Henry VIII. Shes been able to hid away, but now, with Queen Mary on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker has told her she must run because if the Queen finds out about her, her life may be forfeit.
Serc Munro is a Highland warrior who has been harboring a deep secret for most of his life. In a family of healers with good magic, his own dark, killing magic must never be known. But when his father's life is threatened, Serc has no option but to unleash his own magic, revealing his secret to his clan. Now he feels no longer welcome so he sets off alone, only to find he must use his magic again to save a beautiful young lass being attacked in the forest.
Teaming up as exiles
September 25, 2021
Great historical fiction romance.
Searc is the son of a clan chief. His mother is a healer and some call her a witch for her healing powers. Searc discovers his own power that can be deadly. He leaves his clan because he believes they are afraid of him and he is afraid himself. Along his journey he comes across Elena who is being attacked by vandals who have her trapped in a tree. She is running from a past and hiding her royal blood. Searc saves her with his power. He vows to get her safely to Edinburg. As they travel they encounter many obstacles that add to the overall excitement of this book. Worth reading.
Searc is the son of a clan chief. His mother is a healer and some call her a witch for her healing powers. Searc discovers his own power that can be deadly. He leaves his clan because he believes they are afraid of him and he is afraid himself. Along his journey he comes across Elena who is being attacked by vandals who have her trapped in a tree. She is running from a past and hiding her royal blood. Searc saves her with his power. He vows to get her safely to Edinburg. As they travel they encounter many obstacles that add to the overall excitement of this book. Worth reading.
March 26, 2024
Crimson Heart, the final book in Heather McCollum’s Highland Hearts series, was phenomenal. Searc Munro leaves home when his gift is discovered after killing a man to save his father’s life. In his journey to Edinburgh he saves a young girl Elena, who is running from England with secrets of her own. Will she learn to trust Searc, knowing his dark secret, and can they survive together.
I loved this story, and the intrigue of life in the Scottish court with Marie de Guise, mother and Regent of Mary, Queen of Scots, as well as within the Church! This was a beautiful love story and an excellent conclusion to this series!
I loved this story, and the intrigue of life in the Scottish court with Marie de Guise, mother and Regent of Mary, Queen of Scots, as well as within the Church! This was a beautiful love story and an excellent conclusion to this series!
February 6, 2024
This may be my favorite of the series. There is so much intrigue, court politics and plots that kept me on the edge of my seat! Both Search and Elena have their secrets and each of their secrets put them in danger. They will have to learn to trust in each other if they are going to survive. The story starts with Searc finding Elena in a tree with bandits trying to get her to come down. Searc steps in to help and ends up escorting her to Edinburgh where things really kick off! This one will stick with me for a while!
August 17, 2025
WOW! Intrigue Worthy of Stephen King books, and romance to like fire in hearts
Several places in the book, we're so scary, that I had to put the book down until my heart quit something! I don't do well with scary things! And this really wasn't deadly? But it did have it s merit at being suspenseful, well written intrigue, hard to figure out who was the bad guy until the last. And the romance? It was there! Along with laughter and teasing and jesting! Well worth the read! Well worth the price!
Several places in the book, we're so scary, that I had to put the book down until my heart quit something! I don't do well with scary things! And this really wasn't deadly? But it did have it s merit at being suspenseful, well written intrigue, hard to figure out who was the bad guy until the last. And the romance? It was there! Along with laughter and teasing and jesting! Well worth the read! Well worth the price!
March 21, 2018
I liked this book very much. The writer has a way to tell the story that keeps you interested all the time. The characters have strong personalities. They are brave and interesting. The descriptions are vivid. I enjoyed reading this book and It made me wish to read more stories from this writer.
May 14, 2018
Highland Novels by Heather McCollum
As with all of Ms. BrOoklyn's books that I have read so far, this one holds your interest, is full of adventure and romance mixed together.
I know that anyone that likes this type of story will enjoy it as much as I did.
As with all of Ms. BrOoklyn's books that I have read so far, this one holds your interest, is full of adventure and romance mixed together.
I know that anyone that likes this type of story will enjoy it as much as I did.
July 13, 2021
Book 4 in series but can be read as a stand-alone
Secrets, intrigue, danger, magic and fear fill this story resulting in a page turning entertaining book. Adding a beautiful heroine Elena and a handsome highlander Searc just makes the story even better.
Secrets, intrigue, danger, magic and fear fill this story resulting in a page turning entertaining book. Adding a beautiful heroine Elena and a handsome highlander Searc just makes the story even better.
July 22, 2022
J'ai eu beaucoup de mal avec ce livre, j'ai forcé pour le finir mais impossible de vraiment rentrer dans l'histoire. C'est dommage parceque les thèmes sont pas souvent retrouvés en romance historique.
March 9, 2023
Crimson is the color love
Loved this story. It was so complicated with royal intrigue and deception. He could have red eyes and provide death with his sword or hands. She is running from crimson in her heritage.
Loved this story. It was so complicated with royal intrigue and deception. He could have red eyes and provide death with his sword or hands. She is running from crimson in her heritage.
July 11, 2024
Interesting story with the magic element. I liked how they weaved in real people from history to enhance the story line. The murders added interest also. Good audio book with Timothy Campbell as the narrator.
October 31, 2017
My favorite of the series. Love Searc and Elena.
April 22, 2019
Heather just keeps these great stories coming.................
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