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Myths of Moraigh Trilogy #1

Journey to Bongary Spring

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He only has eyes for revenge, and she only has eyes for him.

Isobel McEwan has been beholden to her chief for eight years—ever since he took her in and gave her a home after her parents died. So when he asks her to marry a rival laird to aid the clans in finding peace, she has little choice but to agree to his request. The only problem: she’s desperately in love with another man.

To free herself from the burden of unrequited love before entering into a marriage of convenience, Isobel devises a plan to journey to the healing well that has helped so many others, certain that if she can drink from its spring, she will be healed from her lovesickness for Kieran and prepared to marry the rival laird. But her chief will never willingly let her go, so she must sneak out in the dead of night and cross through dangerous lands alone.

After watching a rival clan kill his father in an ambush, Kieran Buchanan’s only ambition in life is to see them pay for what they did. Biding his time until he can accomplish his goal, Kieran dedicates his life to helping his uncle’s clan train and defend themselves. He’s sworn fealty to his uncle, so when the man asks him to track down Isobel and bring her home, he complies.

With the man she loves close on her tail, Isobel must hurry to the spring if she has any hope of callusing her heart against him. But what can she do when he catches up to her on enemy territory?

248 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2021

316 people are currently reading
1011 people want to read

About the author

Kasey Stockton

59 books1,349 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
Profile Image for Heather Adores Books.
1,597 reviews1,860 followers
August 11, 2024
4⭐
Genre ~ historical fiction
Series ~Myths of Moraigh Trilogy #1
Setting ~ Scotland, 1743
Publication date ~ book ~ August 30, 2021, audio ~ November 4, 2022
Est Page Count ~ 248 (26 chapters)
Audio length ~ 6 hours 22 minutes
Narrator ~ Diane Brooks
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ unrequited love, marriage of convenience, revenge, no steamage

I just recently enjoyed Kacey’s book Beachy Keen, so when I saw this as a hoopla bonus borrow I figured I’d give it a whirl, even though HF is not my typical genre.

Isobel has always loved Kieran, but she’s supposed to marry Miles. Is there a way for her to get over her feelings and do what her chief has asked of her? We’ll find out when she sneaks out to a special well that is supposed to cure her of lovesickness. But seeing Kieran on her journey puts quite a damper on her plans.

I don’t know anything about the time period or Scotland, so I can only assume it was researched and written properly.

Overall, I enjoyed it and now I’m pretty much committed and will probably have to listen to the rest of the series to see what’s in store for these two.

Series notes:
The books are not stand-alone novels and must be read in order for full comprehension, but each novel has its own satisfying love story.

Narration notes:
She did fine with her almost perfect Scottish accent. Why not perfect? Because she doesn’t say “aye” with oomph like Jamie Fraser. Speaking of, it would have been lovely if he narrated the male parts.

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,887 reviews239 followers
August 29, 2021
I adore Kasey Stockton's writing and stories. When she announced she was writing a book set in Scotland, I squealed. I know, not very grown up of me, but it's the truth! I couldn't wait to see how the story would develop but I knew from the synopsis that I was going to not be wanting to do anything once I got my copy. It was true. I honestly couldn't stop thinking about the book once I started reading it. I was even on a trip and couldn't really read it, and even in the midst of being exhausted at night, I couldn't fall asleep until I opened the book and started reading it. It was amazing. I battled my eyes staying open so I could read one more chapter, one more paragraph, one more sentence. Anything to keep learning more about these characters and watching them interact.

This book is the first of a trilogy. You have to read them in order. They will not be stand alone books. So yeah, grab a copy now and enjoy it before the second book is released. If you're a fan of Scottish stories, especially back when clans were feuding and fighting, then you must read this one. The history and beliefs are so fascinating.

The love story was delightful. I loved the chemistry between Isobel and Kieran. Isobel was such a sweet and gentle character. Trying to do right by her family yet not able to go against her heart. So to make her upcoming marriage work, she does everything she can to banish the man of her heart from her heart. It might backfire a little bit. But oh my heavens. The story is fabulous!!!

I feel like I'm now on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book because I just want to know everything that's going to happen and see more into the other characters' stories. I'll be patient though...or try to be. ;-)

Content: Clean. There are mild moments of peril and fighting but nothing overly graphic.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
Profile Image for Lauren (thebookscript).
927 reviews665 followers
June 2, 2022
How can you adore a place you have never been? That's how I feel about Scotland with its grand scenic views, old architecture, history and accents. IF you tell me it's set in Scotland, i'm probably going to read it.

When Kasey came out with her Moraigh trilogy I knew I needed to make room for it on my TBR. And I must say, that I was not disappointed. Kasey pulls out all the 18th central Scottish historical immersion techniques to make you feel wrapped up in the story.

This is a book about an unrequited love, a vow of revenge and a mythical Spring that might have the answer our characters seek. There is a journey which always leads to fun moments of adventure, danger and romantic realizations by firelight. Strong leads with great side characters made this a well rounded and rich story.

The theme of love and forgiveness was really sweet and well done. I will definitely be picking up #2 ASAP to continue on because although this was my first Kasey, it is certainly not my last!
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,537 reviews177 followers
November 29, 2021
“Hope was pure strength; it could fight even the darkest of feelings.”

Journey to Bongary Spring is a compelling story of romance, forgiveness, hope, and intrigue. The beautiful Scottish Highlands of the 1700’s come to life through the gorgeous descriptions, Scottish brogue, those darling coos, and the unforgettable characters.

Isobel has loved Kieran for years, but he’s only ever seen her as his cousin’s shadow. When the chief asks her to marry the new laird of Dulnain to end a decades long feud, Isobel knows she must find a way to rid her heart of Kieran. She sneaks out in the middle of the night to journey to the famed Bongary Spring hoping its healing powers will rid her of her love for Kieran so she can finally move on. However, when she’s followed by Kieran and his men, and he finally begins to see her, will she be able to go through with her plans?

I loved the way Isobel grew in strength throughout the story. She goes from a shy submissive woman to a tower of strength and wisdom. I also enjoyed Kieran’s transformation. He went from being obsessed with finding his father’s murderer to reevaluating what was really important and embracing the power of forgiveness. Both characters learned to cling to the love they had found rather than push it away.

The story was so compelling. In addition to the love story, there’s the feud between the clans, as well as growing trouble from the British. I enjoyed the historical aspects of the story and learning more about this time period. The Scottish brogue was perfectly balanced so that it lent authenticity, but wasn’t difficult to understand. Definitely recommend and can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Ashlee (bookswithnopictures).
1,464 reviews117 followers
August 26, 2021
Kasey had me at Scotland. I am a caledonophile through and through (and an anglophile, but please don't tell some of my ancestors). The history and culture is fascinating and who doesn't love a hairy coo or kilts or bagpipes? Okay, probably the English. :)
While I haven't read all of Kasey's books yet, this is far and beyond my favorite. I love a good unrequited love story and she did a fantastic job of immersing me in late 18th century Scotland. Her words brought up picturesque images and the tension between the clans and Englishmen was great.
Isobel is given little notice of an arranged marriage proposition with an opposing clan laird. Time is short and she resolves to rid herself of the love she has for Kieran the only proper way of a Scottish lass. She has to go to Bongary Spring and drink of the healing waters to make her heart her own again.
Knowing what I do about the power of Scottish folklore, I am thrilled to have seen it woven so strongly throughout this novel. The ending was satisfying with just enough of a tease for me to be highly anticipating book two: Through the Fairy Tree. To which I would immediately binge read if only I could.
Thanks to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Tasha (the_clean_read_book_club).
614 reviews
August 22, 2021
I’ve been a big fan of Kasey Stockton’s books and finding out she was writing a Scottish trilogy made me oh so happy! It’s rare to find books that aren’t stand alone stories, but I have to admit I LOVE them! I love anticipating what will come next; and this one leaves you with enough closure to get you to book 2 without too much lost sleep 😉

I loved the storyline of this book. The characters were full of life and I felt their emotions come across the page vividly. I loved that I didn’t know how this book would play out. I had plenty of guesses, but there was enough conflict happening that I was left second guessing! It’s not surprising that I loved this book and can’t wait to read the remaining books!

Highly recommend this book! Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Melissa.
2,542 reviews267 followers
January 17, 2022
This was a sweet, easy read romance. It was a proper highland romance with some danger and excitement and sweet kisses. Better then I expected it to be and I am waiting for the next:}
A complete story ends this one and the next will be a continuation of the underlying mystery and the romance of the cousin in this one.
Profile Image for Nicole Williamson.
354 reviews54 followers
January 13, 2024
4.5 fluffy Scottish ⭐️! I need part 2 asap.

Mystery, danger, tension between clans, sweet Scottish swooning, gruff men in kilts, a journey to a spring of healing waters, self discovery, and forgiveness—wow a lot to love here!

I actually canceled one of my other library holds so I could make room to get my hands on part 2 sooner!

Content: kissing only, no language, mild violence
Profile Image for Mara.
1,466 reviews110 followers
January 9, 2022
This is the first book in a Scottish triology by Kasey Stockton, so I have two more books to look forward to reading. Yay!! After Isobel McEwan's parents died, her clan's chief took her in to care for her. That was 8 years ago, so when he arranges for her to marry someone from a rival clan as a way to find a way to end a feud that's gone on much too long, she feels she must go along with it, although her heart belongs to Kieran Buchanan. Isobel feels in order to marry this other laird she must rid her heart of Kieran so she leaves in the middle of the night to go to Bongary Spring to make an offering.

Nothing forces a man to re-examine his feelings about a woman than forced proximity, and Kieran and Isolbel had plenty of that when he's tasked with going after her and bringing her back. On the journey to Bongary Spring he gets to see how Isobel handles herself in several, sometimes dangerous, situations and realizes there's more to her than being his cousin's shadow (as he'd always thought of her). His eyes are opened and he starts to see who her for who she truly is. I loved watching this realization come over him.

I listened to the audiobook and loved it. The Scottish accent, the descriptions, the different points of view from several characters were wonderful. I loved that both characters grew and became better, not just one of them. There was enough Scottish brogue to give the story authenticity and yet the reader/listener was able to understand it. I liked that Isolbel and Kieran get their happily ever after and the reader didn't have to wait until the end of the trilogy to see that. I'm not that patient. LOL. The narrator for the audiobook is Diane Brooks and she's awesome. I hope she does the audiobooks for the rest of the trilogy.
Profile Image for Melissa.
1,191 reviews15 followers
January 30, 2023
Scottish culture intrigues me. The clan system is so different than the life I know and I love learning about it. I love reading books that entertain and educate me. Isobel was such a great character. She seemed so timid at first, but she really grew and came into herself through the story. Kieren was a great character as well if a little blind. I loved the way their relationship developed and how they helped each other. There was also some other intrigue going on behind the scenes that was left hanging. So the romance was a complete story, but the underlying mystery will play out through the trilogy. I'm anxious to read the next book and see where it takes us.
Profile Image for Ashley.
445 reviews35 followers
May 4, 2022
Great Clean Scottish Romance!

I really enjoyed this book! There were many different POVs and it was a fun change from just one or two. Lots of different faucets and I am definitely looking forward to continuing the series to see how other storylines resolve.
Profile Image for Alissa J. Zavalianos.
Author 8 books502 followers
August 24, 2021
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first time reading anything by Kasey Stockton! At first, I was captivated by this story because I feel like I’m on a Scotland kick haha. That being said, this story did not disappoint.

Kasey did an awesome job of setting Scotland’s scene, making the dialogues believable, and creating tensions between clans. There is enough mystery to keep the reader wanting to turn the page, and the romance is swoon worthy while still remaining clean.

I thoroughly enjoyed Isobel and Kieran’s relationship! I also loved all the names Kasey picked for her characters! It was just another tribute to her attention to detail.

I’m super eager for the next book in the series! Well done, Kasey!
Profile Image for Jessica.
1,186 reviews94 followers
September 20, 2021
Dear Mrs. Stockton,
Do you know you are one of my favorite authors? Every single book you write (and I read), I love. They make me happy. Incredibly, wonderfully happy. Every book gets better and better! I just want you to know that I sincerely love your writing and your books. This new clean romance in Scotland series is no exception. I adored this book!

It took me a minute to get into this book, I think because it’s a slightly different style. Of course, the different historical setting probably had something to do with that as well. That said however, I was involved in story within a few chapters and was then hooked to the very end. I became fully invested in Isobel and Kieran’s stories and couldn’t devour this book fast enough.

Some things I loved about this wonderful book:
The attention to history and detail was fantastic! It was clear to me that you had done a lot of research and, while I did not feel as though I were being “info dumped,” I came away feeling as though I had been given a good glimpse of the time period and the place. The balance was struck quite well.

Speaking of these attentions, I loved your inclusion of Scottish folklore, clan disputes, tensions with the British, and traditions common to the people at the time (like the whole thing with women and shoes, which I found to be equal parts appalling and fascinating). AND!! And and and! You did a phenomenal job writing in the Scottish brogue. It was not difficult at all for me to hear the narrative in a Scottish brogue as I read and I LOVED THAT! You are genius! Did you find yourself speaking in that brogue while you wrote this? Because I only read it and I sure slipped a few times while talking to my family. They gave me strange looks but I felt a kinship to ye, even if it were only fabricated in m’wee mind.

Isobel is so wonderful. Perhaps the only thing she did that I raised an eyebrow at was her decision to run away to Bongary Spring. Otherwise I just loved her! She was strong and brave and selfless.

Flawed characters! Oh, Mrs. Stockton, the weaknesses! Is it odd to say that I love how well you write an imperfect character and the subsequent arc that leads that character away from their flaws into better people? Because I really, really love that. Kieran was the perfect example of this.

I liked the alternating perspectives of so many characters and I am really looking forward to more stories from these people I’ve grown to love already. I definitely need to see more from Marion, Ian, and Miles.

Lastly, I must talk about cliffhangers. You know I hate them. I really do. Unless I have the next book ready and waiting so I can dive right in. (Perhaps this disapproval is echoed in my own life as I dislike “cliffhangers” in real life even more; I am not a very patient person and don’t want to wait for resolutions! I want answers!) That being said, while the entire story arc hasn’t been completed, the sweet resolution to Isobel and Kieran’s story was quite perfect. So I forgive you for writing a dreaded cliffhanger, because at least my beloved characters were not left in mortal peril or their love story unresolved.

Well Mrs. Stockton, I have perhaps prattled on long enough. Do you believe me when I say that I loved your book? Because I really, truly did. Insert a happy sigh here. While I dearly desire for the second book to be available yesterday, I shall satisfy myself with rereading this one in the meantime. And I am not truly upset about this arrangement (though I wouldn’t complain if the next book became available much sooner).

You ever devoted fan,
Jessica


Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


**Many thanks to the author for the advance copy, which was offered and asked to review if desired. These are my very own thoughts.
Profile Image for Cam.
172 reviews3 followers
November 13, 2023
I have always been a smutty reader--and I have been reading Romance for a long time. . . long long time. So it was really strange to me to turn on this book and hear "Journey to Bongary Spring: A Clean Scottish Romance." "Clean" I wondered. I mean I knew it meant there would be no "cocks" or "dripping wet pussy," but the "clean" still threw me, as if the cleanliness was what mattered about the book, and that somehow it was written for special people: those who do not want to be sullied like the rest of us.

It also made me wonder if the Scots are upset that American romance writers make them so randy.

It will not surprise you that the book is concerned with purifying oneself. The MFC is on a quest to purify her heart, to have the sacred spring purge her of her desire for a man she cannot have. And in finding that purity she becomes more confident, more valuable, and even prettier.

All purity, implied slut shaming aside, the story works. It is a sweet story of awakening desire amidst lots of political factions and turmoil. And while it is always a pleasure to listen to accented narrators, Diane Brooks reads this story somewhat breathlessly--like every line is a shock.
Profile Image for Marilee .
1,454 reviews236 followers
September 15, 2021
As a huge fan of all things Scotland as well as Kasey Stockton, imagine how excited I was to find out the two were combining! She wrote the imagery, folklore, and Scottish culture in such a fascinating way that it made me want to buy a plane ticket to Scotland right now. She has just enough of the Scottish brogue to give a taste of the language but not so much that I was lost in the dialogue.

I am not always a fan of the unrequited love trope but this was done so well! Isobel is a strong and capable woman but has been living in the shadow of her cousin. Only when she and Kiernan are forced into proximity on a journey does Kiernan begin to see her for who she really is. The characters had depth and emotion and I was glued to every page of their adventure and romance.

This is the first book in the trilogy but don't worry, there is enough of a HEA to satisfy those who hate cliffhangers while giving a taste of what may be coming in book number two. I will definitely be watching and waiting for that one!!

I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,006 reviews8 followers
April 26, 2022
In all honesty, I sat down to read a few chapters this morning and ended up tearing through the entire book in one sitting!

This is a well-researched and thoroughly engaging tale about two Scottish clans, their feud, the rise of political unrest, and a woman who is caught in the middle. Will she be loyal to her clan chief and forget her heart?

2nd Reading
*****loved it just as much as the first time! But I wanted to refresh my memory of the book because the 2nd book is the series is going to be released.
Profile Image for Olivia.
Author 5 books43 followers
April 25, 2024
Rounded to 5 ⭐️

At first I thought the premise was kinda low ball, cuz it seemed like she was taking too big a risk for little return? But I enjoyed the overall story enough to not let it take away from the rest.

I really loved the tone and setting so so much!!! The accents -le sigh- -Italian hand-

There are fawning moments and detailed uhh “warm” kisses (warmth is a thing apparently. Sweet, just saying the word is used in several instances hehe).
But in general clean and enjoyable.

I liked that the superstition as there would’ve been at the time, though heeded at first, was acknowledged as not being the source of what she had thought she was after. There were good themes!

There were a few things I wish had been better developed, but I have these on my wishlist for physical copies now, even if only for immersive experience and sweetness 💛
Profile Image for Abigail.
Author 2 books205 followers
January 20, 2023
This was such a sweet yet riveting romance! From clashing clans to unrequited love, this book had me hooked from page one. The writing was beautiful, the characters were personable and fun to read about, and the action/underlying suspense was engaging. I am super excited to read the second book in this series!
Profile Image for Madi & Meg.
290 reviews14 followers
August 25, 2021
Okay y’all….. who has been wanting a full Outlander experience but clean?!? Then I have the thing for you!!! This book has all the Outlander feels - romance, redcoats, feuds, and beautiful Scottish men - all wrapped up in one amazing clean book!

Synopsis: Love-torn Isobel has just been informed that she will be marrying the enemy’s Lord, in an arranged marriage. But for the past 7 years, she has been longing for the one man who barely knows she exists, Kieran. In an effort to wash her love for Kieran away, she must escape to Bongary Springs to cleanse her brain of this misery to be ready to start a life with another. But does it work?!?

Review: Y’all…….. um….. yeah……. If you have any love for Scotland at all….. then this is the next book on your TBR!! It has intrigue, action, historical accuracy, amazing story telling, and some good clean romance! I loved the underlying theme of revenge and forgiveness…… and the feud of the clans made it so so good! I also loved that the story doesn’t end with this book and allows for us to see what happens with the redcoats and the sketchy uncle!!

I would recommend this book to anyone that loves the Scottish Clean Romance Genre or wants to watch/read “The Outlander” series but prefers clean reading😘 truly this is such a good introduction to the Scottish Highlands I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Thank you to Kasey for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and thoughts are 100% mine 😘

Clean Rating: Steamy clean kisses….. y’all will be surprised who initiates;)
Content Warnings: War, Creepy Men, and Blood.
Profile Image for Renae Stahl.
104 reviews47 followers
August 31, 2021
“What would ye do?”
“I would tell him I forgive him.”
Kieran scoffed, and she stepped closer, pressing her shoulder against the cold stone wall.
“Ye must think me the lowest of men. I canna forgive so easily.”

Isobel has resigned herself to the reality of an arranged marriage into the clan who killed her parents so many years ago. But first, she needs to heal her heart. She has spent years in love with Kieran and in order to move on, she decides to travel to a sacred spring that she has personally witnessed heal those who drink from it.

When she disappears in the middle of the night, her uncle sends none other than Kieran after her.

As Kieran accompanies Isobel to the Spring, he is struck by her fortitude and courage.
And her beauty. For the first time, he truly notices the woman who has always hidden in the shadows.

Isobel returns satisfied by her visit to the spring; not only does she feel the spring has done all that it promised, but a heartfelt conversation with Kieran helps her realise they were never meant to be, anyway.

Kieren, on the other hand, has to fight the new feelings he’s discovered for this incredible woman, knowing that when they return, she will marry their enemy.

This book is stunning inside, and out. I loved that we got to see both Isobel and Kieran’s points of view. The entire story was so vividly written and had beautiful themes of forgiveness and acceptance.

Scottish romances happen to be my happy place this month and this one definitely hit the spot🌼

Congratulations, Kasey Stockton for a beautiful start to a new trilogy! I'm excited to see where this series takes us😉
Profile Image for Anna (The_Reading_Pantry).
366 reviews58 followers
November 19, 2021
Sooooo good!!

I gotta say, if you have been wanting a clean Scottish romance that gives you Outlander vibes without the time travel and all the killing, this is for you. I always love Kasey Stockton’s books and this one blew my expectations out of the water. It was THAT good! It was an easy read but one that gives you all the Scottish feels.

After reading so many books, I’m a fan when the book doesn’t go exactly as I expect. That was this one for sure! It was a fun adventure/trip to Scotland. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 There could have been a bit more romance and relationship building but it was still a fun read. I got the vibe that there was more of a focus on the political story plot with a little romance on the side. Which might have been the goal, I really don’t know. 🤷🏼‍♀️😅 Think I’ve been spoiled with all these romance books.


Thanks to @fortheloveofbooks_bookclub who made me put this at the top of my TBR. I think it should be at the top of everyone’s TBR pile. 😂 It was that good! I’m looking forward to the second book this May.
Profile Image for Stacey.
287 reviews18 followers
March 27, 2023
When I found out Kasey Stockton was writing an 18th century Scottish tale featuring clans, feuds, adventure, mystery, and of course, romance I was all in. She writes wonderful Regency and delightful Contemporary romances and this book is no exception. I was absolutely not disappointed with Journey to Bongary Spring. The characters, intrigue, and fast pace kept me turning pages and I didn't want to put it down. I love how the accents are written into the dialogue so I could hear the characters in my head as they would actually sound and I didn't have to try and conjure up a Scottish accent in my head! I read an ebook copy but I definitely need a print copy for my keeper shelf so one is already on its way to me. I am thrilled this is the start of a trilogy because I can't wait to find out what happens next!
Profile Image for Holly Bleggi.
1,349 reviews25 followers
August 30, 2021
enjoyed this book by Kasey Stockton. I like that has different perspectives from so many of the characters. I liked how the main characters fell in love. I like that is was a journey for both of them to discover that love heals. I liked that we saw some Scottish culture in this book. I also like that the story will continue on in other books. I liked that the romance between the main characters concluded in the book but that Kasey sets us up for the rest of the series. I look forward to seeing what happens next.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own. 
Profile Image for Renae | Redhair_and_Books.
149 reviews8 followers
August 22, 2021
Kilts, clan rivalries, and a perilous journey to a holy spring all made this a book I instantly wanted to read. I was not disappointed in the least! Determined to repay the kindness of her laird and obey his command to marry the rival clan’s new leader, Isobel McEwan leaves the safety of Castle Moraigh to drink of the healing waters of Bongary Spring. Her malady: a heart that is desperately in love with another man, Kieran Buchanan… a man who barely acknowledges her existence. Knowing that her laird would not approve of the journey, Isobel sneaks out of the castle and sets off. Her laird sends his fiercest warrior, who happens to be Kieran, to bring her back. To find out what happens to Isobel and Kieran on the journey to Bongary Spring, you’ll have to pick up a copy and read it yourself!

“[Love] isna an affliction… It’s a lovely, beautiful thing. Love is healing…”

Isobel McEwan is a character I immediately related to, as her romantic trials are some that I’ve been through myself (although, I can’t say I’ve been pledged to marry the laird of a rival clan, and I’ve certainly not tasted the water of a holy spring to cure a lovesick heart!). Her determination, quiet strength, and growth throughout the book were inspiring and made her so much more believable than the typical damsel-in-distress type that is so often seen in romance novels. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered for this strong Scottish woman whose love was as sweet and true as the waters from Bongary Spring. Kieran Buchanan was likeable in his own right, and I was grateful that the book included his point of view. Like, seriously, I could not blame Isobel for being head-over-heels for him! The side characters were also loveable, with Miles, Marion, and Rupert being a few of my favorites. I’m hoping we will get more of their stories in the next installment!

“She’d never been kissed like that before in her life- nay, she’d never been kissed before at all- and she had the distinct feeling that she’d never be kissed like that again.”

I truly loved this story, through and through! If I hadn’t had stressful licensing exams to study for at work, I’m certain I would’ve consumed this book in a single sitting. It’s a quick, clean, and perfectly sweet romance set in one of my favorite historical settings: 18th century Scotland! More specifically, it’s set in Inverness-shire, which made my Outlander-loving self really happy! Kasey Stockton paid excellent attention to historic detail and clearly did her research to make things accurate and believable. This was my first time reading one of her books, and I’m rather new to the genre of historic romance, but she has got me hooked now! Beyond anxiously awaiting the next book in the Myths of Moraigh trilogy (with a cliffhanger like that, how could I not?!), I will also be keeping an eye out for Kasey’s numerous Regency-era romance novels!

I received this book for free from the author. All comments and opinions are entirely my own and I am writing a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Jeanine Reed.
599 reviews23 followers
January 13, 2023
She hadn’t needed to be healed, for love was not a malady. It was love that did the healing. ~ Isobel

I know I’m a little late to the Myths of Moraigh party, but I put them off so that I could read them all together and not have to impatiently wait to see what happened next. I love all the books @authorkaseystockton writes and her Scottish ones are the bonniest of them all!

Isobel has long had an attraction to Kieran Buchanan, ever since he showed her a kindness along the shores of the loch years ago. But Kieran has been too consumed with revenge to care for anyone, let along notice the attentions of a bonnie lass.

When Isobel’s chief informs her that she is to wed the rival clan chief to improve relations between the two clans, she is beside herself. Knowing she must do her duty and let go of her love for Kieran, she decides to journey to the Bongary Spring, a water known for its healing powers. She knows this spring can cure her of the unrequited love, the long and the ache.

Isobel sets off in the night on her secret journey, only to be seen by Kieran himself. The chief sends his best men, along with Kieran, to bring her back in time for the feast announcing her union.

Will she reach the spring in time and is her faith strong enough ensure the cure she so desperately needs?

Can’t wait to see what the future holds for Marion!
Profile Image for Tayo.
586 reviews24 followers
September 2, 2021
This was a really nice read. The central plot of Isobel trying to get over Kieran was great. Their chemistry worked well and I loved the progression of their relationship.

I was surprised to see an underlying plot, which at the conclusion of this book still wasn't truly fleshed out or at the forefront. It alludes to political unrest between the McEwan tribe/clan and the british throne. I'm not sure as it was more of an undertone through the book rather than an overt storyline. It did kind of overshadow the central plot a little at times. It was almost like reading two books in parallel since Isobel and Kieran's plot never really intersected with this other plot.

There were also a surprising amount of POVs. In addition to Isolbel's and Kieran, we had Marion (Isolbel's cousin), Ian (another member of the clan), McEwan, Miles (Duncan laird). It was a lot. It also meant there were a couple of moments I felt lost.

While I really enjoyed this, not sure I'll continue with the series as this pervasive underlying plot didn't seem like my cup of tea, but we'll see.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lindy Thompson.
509 reviews23 followers
August 30, 2021
Wow. I am quickly becoming addicted to all things Scotland and this book fueled my need. I absolutely loved the adventure, the folklore, and the romance. 😍
Isobel has loved Kieran from afar for years.  When faced with an unexpected arranged marriage, she decides that in order to do her duty well, she needs to rid her heart of her love for Kieran. And like any believing Scottish lass, she plans to travel to Bongary Spring to drink of the healing waters to heal her heart.
I admire Isobel's determination to do what she needs to. She has such a kind, good, brave heart. Kieran is a fierce warrior who cares deeply for his comrades and completely fixated on getting revenge. Their adventures and time together are absolutely wonderful.
I need to know what's going to happen next and how this whole story resolves! This is such a perfect opening to the trilogy, with an ending that didn't totally destroy me but still left me looking forward to book 2!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Journey to Bongary Spring
By Kasey Stockton

Thank you to the author for my copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Profile Image for Hope Garfield.
663 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2021
Shoutout to Kasey for an ARC of her book, in exchange for an honest review.

You guys! It was so good! I could not put it down. I was immediately draw in by a story of unrequited love (haven't we all faced that at some point?). But, the story is so much more than that. It is a story about adventure and growth. It has a little bit of everything to keep you on your toes! There are duels, intrigue, beautiful scenery, windows into Scottish legend, and even *sexy accents.*

I could so clearly hear and visualize so many different scenes from this book. This shows that Kasey has done her job well. Scotland's history, especially this time period, is so complex and multifaceted. The book is well-researched and even puts in some intriguing lesser-known details, such as Highland women not often wearing shoes. .

If you get around to reading this book, please reach out and discuss the campfire scene with me, because I am here for it! I cannot wait to read Through The Fairy Tree!
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