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Once Upon a Highland Season #3
Once Upon a Highland Christmas
Lady Alanna McNabb is bound by duty to her family, who insist she must marry a gentleman of wealth and title. When she meets the man of her dreams, she knows it's much too late, but her heart is no longer hers.
Laird Iain MacGillivray is on his way to propose to another woman when he discovers Alanna half-frozen in the snow and barely alive. She isn't his to love, yet she's everything he's ever wanted.
As Christmas comes closer, the snow thickens, and the magic grows stronger. Alanna and Iain must choose between desire and duty, love and obligation.
But it's Christmas in the Highlands, and there are bound to be a few surprises.
Laird Iain MacGillivray is on his way to propose to another woman when he discovers Alanna half-frozen in the snow and barely alive. She isn't his to love, yet she's everything he's ever wanted.
As Christmas comes closer, the snow thickens, and the magic grows stronger. Alanna and Iain must choose between desire and duty, love and obligation.
But it's Christmas in the Highlands, and there are bound to be a few surprises.
400 pages, Unknown Binding
First published December 9, 2014
70 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Lecia Cornwall
19 books491 followersLecia Cornwall writes historical romance and historical fiction. She lives and writes in Alberta, Canada, amid the beautiful foothills of the Canadian Rockies, with five cats, two adult children, a crazy chocolate Lab, and one very patient husband. She is hard at work on her next book.
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June 2, 2021Book #3 in the Once Upon A Highland series. Lady Alanna McNabb must marry a man of wealth and title to save her family's fortunes, but she dreams of more. On the eve of her wedding, lost in a snow storm, she despairs of rescue or even survival, and fears she will die without ever knowing love at all. She wakes in the care of Laird Iain MacGillivray and his clan. The snowstorm worsens, keeping her trapped, and drawing her closer to Iain. But they are both committed to others, and they must choose duty over love. But it's Christmas in the Highlands, and what would Christmas be without a few magical surprises?
December 6, 2016
This holiday historical romance had an exciting event at the beginning, midway and end but the vast majority of the book was hero and heroine ruminating on how they are supposed to marry someone else. I skimmed a lot. Lady Alanna gets lost in a snowstorm on the eve of her wedding and is rescued by Laird Iain who found her barely alive.
December 11, 2021
Wow I’m so disappointed because the first half was so good. But it just went completely downhill. First off the hero and heroine are so fucking boring. They only had a handful of conversations with each other . The end is so stupid. I hate the type of humor that’s like “mass confusion” like when a bunch of ppl are in a room together and the reader knows the truth but no one in the room knows because it’s all chaotic as they try to explain to each other what’s going on. Yeah this is my least favorite type of plot device. And the hero is literally such a doormat and let’s everyone walk all over him. It’s literally 90% through and zero character development, just a doormat doormatting like how the fuck are you a fucking laird if you can’t even put someone in their place when they’re being rude to you???? What???? Anyway dnf because the characters literally developed backwards if that’s even a thing. Ugh cant believe I wasted my night on this
October 15, 2018
Alright here's the gripe:
What the heck is the timeline for these books? Is this all in the same year? Because I swear in the first one, Megan and Alanna were 17 and 16. Maybe I'm wrong, clearly I'm wrong, but if I'm not? It's just a bit messed up.
What the heck is the timeline for these books? Is this all in the same year? Because I swear in the first one, Megan and Alanna were 17 and 16. Maybe I'm wrong, clearly I'm wrong, but if I'm not? It's just a bit messed up.
July 3, 2015
Sorta random, but I've been a'wanting to read a Highland romance for some time now, and I came across this ebook. Something about the rolling hills, kilt-wearing-heroes, and Scottish brogues has been calling my name, which is why I picked up this novel. And this novel really satisfied my appetite for a good Scottish romance. Iain, Alanna, the misunderstandings, the expectations and promises, the magic, the accents and foreign words--all of it was exactly what I was expecting and hoping and wanting.
So why only 4 stars? Well, I didn't like that there were chapters from secondary, tertiary, and even quadrary (is that even a word??) characters. Now don't get me wrong. I know most HRs are told in alternating, third person POV, but this novel took this tendency a little too far in my opinion. Plus, it got a little confusing when we were not only following characters we hardly knew but were in places that were not Craigleith castle or Dundrummie. I kept having to go back and reread passages, trying to remember which character was in/from/going to which place.
Also, in regards to Alanna's sudden zero-to-sixty approach on becoming a seductress, I thought that was a little unbelievable. I get her wanting to explore her sexuality and attraction to Iain, but I doubt she would have done what she did THE FIRST TIME. But you go girl!
Other than that, I really enjoyed this novel. I don't think I'll be going back to read the rest of this series though. Definitely recommend!
So why only 4 stars? Well, I didn't like that there were chapters from secondary, tertiary, and even quadrary (is that even a word??) characters. Now don't get me wrong. I know most HRs are told in alternating, third person POV, but this novel took this tendency a little too far in my opinion. Plus, it got a little confusing when we were not only following characters we hardly knew but were in places that were not Craigleith castle or Dundrummie. I kept having to go back and reread passages, trying to remember which character was in/from/going to which place.
Also, in regards to Alanna's sudden zero-to-sixty approach on becoming a seductress, I thought that was a little unbelievable. I get her wanting to explore her sexuality and attraction to Iain, but I doubt she would have done what she did THE FIRST TIME. But you go girl!
Other than that, I really enjoyed this novel. I don't think I'll be going back to read the rest of this series though. Definitely recommend!
December 9, 2014
"Once Upon a Highland Christmas" by Lecia Cornwall. I enjoy historical romances, especially those that involve Highlanders, and this one is definitely enjoyable. Iain, our Highlander Hero, is big, strong, sexy but also kind and gentle. Alanna, our heroine, is sweet, loving and caring. At times, Alanna did seem a bit timid - I wanted her to stand up for herself and take what she wanted and deserved. Iain saves Alanna's life and, while recovering, they grow closer. However, as is with many romance tales, there are obstacles in their way to happiness. Can they overcome these obstacles? Will the Spirit of Christmas help true love find its way? You'll have to read to find out!! This is the second story of Ms. Cornwall's that I have read and, once again, she has proven to be an author that will go on my TBR list for future stories. Thank you, Ms. Cornwall, for an enjoyable, holiday tale! (Received copy for honest review)
December 21, 2016
Once Upon a Highland Christmas is the third book in the 'Once Upon A Highland Season' by Lecia Cornwall. I haven't read the previous books, but I didn't need to in order to understand and fully enjoy this one.
Lady Alanna McNab is the middle sister of her family. Their mother is determined that each daughter marry a man of the English aristocracy. Her oldest sister ran away and married her true love when she was being forced into marrying, which unfortunately meant that their mother then offered Alanna as a bride for the jilted English man. Alanna also doesn't want to marry him, but she won't say no because she is the 'good daughter' the one who doesn't want to cause any upset. On the morning of her wedding day Alanna needs to get away from all the fuss and decides to go for a walk to clear her head. Before she knows it she has been walking for hours, the weather has turned and she is stuck in a huge snow storm. She has no idea where she is, or how far she has walked, but she thinks her time is up after she falls and injures herself and ends up lying in the snow unable to move.
Laird Iain MacGillivray is returning to his castle, himself also caught up in the unexpected snow storm. He normally wouldn't have got caught but his mind was elsewhere, knowing his duty lay back at his castle. His very proper and very English cousin was there awaiting his proposal of marriage. He doesn't want to marry her, he doesn't love her, yet he knows she will help him ease into his new inherited role as an English Lord. When his horse shies at something on the ground, upon investigation Iain discovers Alanna in the snow. She is barely alive. He knows that he won't make it back to the castle in the storm, but also knows that not far away there is shelter to be found in an empty cottage. So he lifts Alanna from the snow and takes her with him to the cottage where he hopes he can warm her up, treat her injuries, and make sure she lives. Then when the snow clears he can take her to his castle to recover properly before he helps her get to wherever she was going.
At first sight of Alanna, even in her frozen state, Iain is captivated by her beauty. He has never seen any other more beautiful. Then when thankfully after his tender ministrations all night, Alanna awakes, she too is struck with how handsome Iain is. She is also very sore, and very unwell. Thankfully the weather has let up briefly and Iain manages to get them both safely to the castle.
From there we watch as a relationship develops between them to the disgust of Penny, Iain's cousin and her mother. The latter plot ways in which to make sure that Alanna returns home to her own betrothed as quickly as possible, and to make sure she gets no ideas about Iain. Whether or not that will end with him marrying his cousin remains to be seen. Both he and Alanna's futures are pretty much set out for them by duty, but will they allow themselves to shirk their duties, and give in to the fierce attraction they feel for each other? Or will they do their duty to their families making everybody happy except of course themselves?
I absolutely adored this story, so much so that I tried to read it all in one go. I didn't quite manage that, but in two sittings I had read and loved the whole story. I loved Iain's sisters whose belief of magic could be the very reason the snow storm happened. Penelope and her mother, although single minded in their attempts to force Iain into marriage, weren't entirely unlikeable, nor was Alanna's mother who was just as single mindedly trying to get Alanna to marry. I loved Iain's clan and the utmost respect they have for their Laird, and how he cared for all of them. There was definitely highland magic in the air which made the book a true delight to read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
Lady Alanna McNab is the middle sister of her family. Their mother is determined that each daughter marry a man of the English aristocracy. Her oldest sister ran away and married her true love when she was being forced into marrying, which unfortunately meant that their mother then offered Alanna as a bride for the jilted English man. Alanna also doesn't want to marry him, but she won't say no because she is the 'good daughter' the one who doesn't want to cause any upset. On the morning of her wedding day Alanna needs to get away from all the fuss and decides to go for a walk to clear her head. Before she knows it she has been walking for hours, the weather has turned and she is stuck in a huge snow storm. She has no idea where she is, or how far she has walked, but she thinks her time is up after she falls and injures herself and ends up lying in the snow unable to move.
Laird Iain MacGillivray is returning to his castle, himself also caught up in the unexpected snow storm. He normally wouldn't have got caught but his mind was elsewhere, knowing his duty lay back at his castle. His very proper and very English cousin was there awaiting his proposal of marriage. He doesn't want to marry her, he doesn't love her, yet he knows she will help him ease into his new inherited role as an English Lord. When his horse shies at something on the ground, upon investigation Iain discovers Alanna in the snow. She is barely alive. He knows that he won't make it back to the castle in the storm, but also knows that not far away there is shelter to be found in an empty cottage. So he lifts Alanna from the snow and takes her with him to the cottage where he hopes he can warm her up, treat her injuries, and make sure she lives. Then when the snow clears he can take her to his castle to recover properly before he helps her get to wherever she was going.
At first sight of Alanna, even in her frozen state, Iain is captivated by her beauty. He has never seen any other more beautiful. Then when thankfully after his tender ministrations all night, Alanna awakes, she too is struck with how handsome Iain is. She is also very sore, and very unwell. Thankfully the weather has let up briefly and Iain manages to get them both safely to the castle.
From there we watch as a relationship develops between them to the disgust of Penny, Iain's cousin and her mother. The latter plot ways in which to make sure that Alanna returns home to her own betrothed as quickly as possible, and to make sure she gets no ideas about Iain. Whether or not that will end with him marrying his cousin remains to be seen. Both he and Alanna's futures are pretty much set out for them by duty, but will they allow themselves to shirk their duties, and give in to the fierce attraction they feel for each other? Or will they do their duty to their families making everybody happy except of course themselves?
I absolutely adored this story, so much so that I tried to read it all in one go. I didn't quite manage that, but in two sittings I had read and loved the whole story. I loved Iain's sisters whose belief of magic could be the very reason the snow storm happened. Penelope and her mother, although single minded in their attempts to force Iain into marriage, weren't entirely unlikeable, nor was Alanna's mother who was just as single mindedly trying to get Alanna to marry. I loved Iain's clan and the utmost respect they have for their Laird, and how he cared for all of them. There was definitely highland magic in the air which made the book a true delight to read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
December 23, 2020
So, you’re the lord of a Scottish manor who just inherited another title and more property, the handsomest guy around, and on your way to propose to a proper English girl, who you’re not crazy about. You find a beautiful injured local woman, unconscious in a snowstorm that blew out of nowhere. You can’t make it back to your castle, but can get to grandfather’s abandoned cabin. What do you do? “Only what is necessary.” Bring her to the cabin, start a fire, and wrap up naked with her—for medicinal purposes only, of course.
That opener got my attention. Once Upon a Highland Christmas has a familiar plot—they can’t marry because they’re both betrothed, etc. The author paints beautiful descriptions of the highlands in winter, and the characters in the castle are well developed—both peasant staff and nobility. Plenty of fun is poked as various aristocrats from the English and Scottish houses interact. Then, a tragedy in the village gives members of the elite a chance to show their true colors.
Light, fluffy fun, but with the underlying message that understanding and compassion are the most valuable traits a lord can possess. And Scots rule. Read it if you like Christmas and/or highlands romances.
That opener got my attention. Once Upon a Highland Christmas has a familiar plot—they can’t marry because they’re both betrothed, etc. The author paints beautiful descriptions of the highlands in winter, and the characters in the castle are well developed—both peasant staff and nobility. Plenty of fun is poked as various aristocrats from the English and Scottish houses interact. Then, a tragedy in the village gives members of the elite a chance to show their true colors.
Light, fluffy fun, but with the underlying message that understanding and compassion are the most valuable traits a lord can possess. And Scots rule. Read it if you like Christmas and/or highlands romances.
February 27, 2021
I've read and LOVED all three books in this series!!!
Lecia Cornwall is a fantastic story teller. Her characters are so fully drawn that reading felt more like watching a movie. I couldn't stop even long enough to leave a rating on the first two books. Now I'm sad the story ended. There were so many funny moments and I could easily picture the scenery of Scotland. These are books I will definitely read again. Thank you Ms. Cornwall for an incredible week of escape.
Lecia Cornwall is a fantastic story teller. Her characters are so fully drawn that reading felt more like watching a movie. I couldn't stop even long enough to leave a rating on the first two books. Now I'm sad the story ended. There were so many funny moments and I could easily picture the scenery of Scotland. These are books I will definitely read again. Thank you Ms. Cornwall for an incredible week of escape.
October 20, 2020
Any book that can make me collapse laughing in these dire pandemic days demands five stars. Read this book for a solid romantic tale laced with magic. And laugh as a letter goes from hand to hand with expanding explanations for its contents. Reminded me that gossip and informal communications have lives of their own. The author has a good ear for humor and tongue-in-cheek descriptions.
December 28, 2023
Once Upon a Highland Christmas (Once a Highland Season series Book 3)
The love story of Lady Alanna and Laid Iain. This a story of mothers trying their best to find security for their daughters. Iain is now a Earl and his aunt want him to merry her daughter. Alanna's mother want her to merry the man her sister was to merry. Who will meet who? Great story.
The love story of Lady Alanna and Laid Iain. This a story of mothers trying their best to find security for their daughters. Iain is now a Earl and his aunt want him to merry her daughter. Alanna's mother want her to merry the man her sister was to merry. Who will meet who? Great story.
November 14, 2017
A second book finished in the same day. I could not help myself. This one is the icing on the cake. The call of honor and duty is strong in this one. I can only hope that this series is continued with the remaining family members, because it's too good to let go.
December 30, 2017
A wonderful Christmas romance. Iian was supposed to marry Penelope. Alanna was supposed to marry Wilbur. Iian saves Alanna's life. Throw in the magic of Christmas and the story is amazing.
Loved it!
Loved it!
December 19, 2019
A fun Christmas read
Fairly straightforward story. Although there were lots of people to sort out, this book caught my attention and I struggled to put it down. Easy read. No major bad guy which was nice.
Fairly straightforward story. Although there were lots of people to sort out, this book caught my attention and I struggled to put it down. Easy read. No major bad guy which was nice.
December 29, 2021
Oh how I loved this beautiful Christmas romance in the highlands! Alanna and Laird Iain made a great couple. They suited each other perfectly in character and honor and loyalty to clan and family. I highly recommend this book.
December 14, 2021
3.5 stars
December 28, 2021
Fun reading.
January 9, 2022
Great story!
March 22, 2017
It was ok. But there was too melodramatic for me. I read about a quarter of the book, and saw there was going to be a big production of trapping the hero and will there be an HEA for the main couple. I skipped toward the end read a couple pages, then skimmed the last couple pages. Meh.
December 23, 2017
Super cute holiday read with a touch of lust.
January 11, 2015
Review published at http://wp.me/p3QRh4-4u
Iain MacGillivray, Laird of Craigleith, has unexpectedly inherited an English earldom, and is now also the Earl of Purbrick. He isn’t overjoyed with this because while visiting England years ago, he was mocked by his relatives for being Scottish. He also knows this will take him away from his beloved Scotland, but he’s resigned to do his duty. He is immediately descended upon by his Aunt Marjorie, who is determined to “civilize” him and make him over into the perfect English earl. She also brings along her two daughters, with the intention of marrying off the eldest, Penelope, to Iain.
Alanna McNabb has agreed to marry an English marquess she barely knows in order to please her mother. The day before her wedding, she goes for a long walk to ponder her fate. An unexpected (and magical?) snowstorm whips up, causing her to lose her way and to have a nasty fall and injure her leg.
As Iain is riding, he spots Alanna in the snow, unconscious, and in very bad shape. The weather is so bad now, that he carries her to a small hut to shelter them. He tends to her injury, and keeps her warm with his own body heat. The next morning, he finds that Alanna had somehow wandered twelve miles from her home, and the way back there is impassable, so he takes her back to his home until the weather breaks.
It’s obvious that Iain and Alanna have developed an instant attraction to each other, but it’s an impossible situation, as she’s about to be married, and he is resigned that he must propose to Penelope. The magical snow keeps them snowbound, and as each day passes, their attraction grows. Penelope is horribly wrong for Iain – she is vain, selfish, and unscrupulous. She’ll do whatever she has to in order to get Iain to finally officially propose, although in truth, she secretly scorns him, and is only interested in becoming a countess.
Iain is the kind of hero I adore, he’s quiet, but kind, generous, polite, and conscientious. He’s even willing to marry someone he has no love for, just because she may help him be more acceptable to the English. Even in the face of Penelope’s blatant machinations, he’s unfailingly polite and honorable. Though I greatly admired the type of man he was, there were times I wanted him to just flat out tell the odious Penelope to go to the devil.
Alanna was perfect for Iain. She’s caring for others, kind, and also dutiful. Her path to her happy every after was filled with obstacle after obstacle, but love (and perhaps, magic?) won out in the end. This was a very enjoyable read. Lecia Cornwall has a lovely, engaging writing style that I like very much. I highly recommend Once Upon a Highland Christmas for your reading enjoyment at any time of the year.
Iain MacGillivray, Laird of Craigleith, has unexpectedly inherited an English earldom, and is now also the Earl of Purbrick. He isn’t overjoyed with this because while visiting England years ago, he was mocked by his relatives for being Scottish. He also knows this will take him away from his beloved Scotland, but he’s resigned to do his duty. He is immediately descended upon by his Aunt Marjorie, who is determined to “civilize” him and make him over into the perfect English earl. She also brings along her two daughters, with the intention of marrying off the eldest, Penelope, to Iain.
Alanna McNabb has agreed to marry an English marquess she barely knows in order to please her mother. The day before her wedding, she goes for a long walk to ponder her fate. An unexpected (and magical?) snowstorm whips up, causing her to lose her way and to have a nasty fall and injure her leg.
As Iain is riding, he spots Alanna in the snow, unconscious, and in very bad shape. The weather is so bad now, that he carries her to a small hut to shelter them. He tends to her injury, and keeps her warm with his own body heat. The next morning, he finds that Alanna had somehow wandered twelve miles from her home, and the way back there is impassable, so he takes her back to his home until the weather breaks.
It’s obvious that Iain and Alanna have developed an instant attraction to each other, but it’s an impossible situation, as she’s about to be married, and he is resigned that he must propose to Penelope. The magical snow keeps them snowbound, and as each day passes, their attraction grows. Penelope is horribly wrong for Iain – she is vain, selfish, and unscrupulous. She’ll do whatever she has to in order to get Iain to finally officially propose, although in truth, she secretly scorns him, and is only interested in becoming a countess.
Iain is the kind of hero I adore, he’s quiet, but kind, generous, polite, and conscientious. He’s even willing to marry someone he has no love for, just because she may help him be more acceptable to the English. Even in the face of Penelope’s blatant machinations, he’s unfailingly polite and honorable. Though I greatly admired the type of man he was, there were times I wanted him to just flat out tell the odious Penelope to go to the devil.
Alanna was perfect for Iain. She’s caring for others, kind, and also dutiful. Her path to her happy every after was filled with obstacle after obstacle, but love (and perhaps, magic?) won out in the end. This was a very enjoyable read. Lecia Cornwall has a lovely, engaging writing style that I like very much. I highly recommend Once Upon a Highland Christmas for your reading enjoyment at any time of the year.
December 18, 2014
Oh how I love my Scottish-themed historical romances! I’ve somehow missed the second book in this magical series – and I bought it to add to my pile of reads during my ‘blog hiatus”.. a girl can dream right? But today I want to share about the third book, tied by setting and season and filed with the magic that is pervasive in Scotland.
Lecia Cornwall brings us two families in their own versions of identity crises. Alanna McNabb is the sister of THE McNabb of Glenlorne, the Earl, a titled young woman with a mother who is bound and determined she ‘marry up’ into the English Society. She desperately wants to keep her Scots identity, and isn’t particularly pleased to be marrying to head off to England.
Iain MacGillivray is a Scottish Laird of his own right, but a distant relative in England has died, and he has also inherited the English title of Earl of Purbrick, and ostensibly a fiancé, in the form of his very simpering, self-involved and snitty cousin Penelope.
With a bit of unexpected magic spells practiced in the library by Iain’s younger sister Fiona and her cousin Elizabeth cooked up to see their “true loves”, a freak snowstorm blew up and set in motion several unexpected consequences.
When Alanna is found at death’s door in the snow, miles from her home, Iain has no choice but to shelter in a small crofter’s cottage and try to thaw her out. An injury and the unusually snowy weather require Alanna to stay at Carigleith while she heals, delaying both her wedding and Iain’s begrudgingly offered proposal to Penelope.
From the instant flash of magic that Fiona and Elizabeth experiment with, to Auld Annie the fey healer and overwhelming mother figure in the household, Cornwall imbues the story with a flavor that is uniquely felt in Scotland, a feeling that is as indescribable as it is palpable. Each character is blessed (or burdened) with personalities that bring them to life instantly. From the sweet and gentle Fiona to the protective and wonderful Annie, with Iain and Alana being wonderfully well-matched and solidly good hearted people, this is a story that will have you wanting to travel back to experience them for yourself. And perhaps to push Penelope into the loch – or off a chair, since the ‘outdoors’ is foreign to her. A lovely romance that takes the time to build complete characters and a solid sense of meant to be while creating imagery that brings Scotland to life, this is a not miss book for fans of historical romance, or those trying the genre for the first time.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Lecia Cornwall brings us two families in their own versions of identity crises. Alanna McNabb is the sister of THE McNabb of Glenlorne, the Earl, a titled young woman with a mother who is bound and determined she ‘marry up’ into the English Society. She desperately wants to keep her Scots identity, and isn’t particularly pleased to be marrying to head off to England.
Iain MacGillivray is a Scottish Laird of his own right, but a distant relative in England has died, and he has also inherited the English title of Earl of Purbrick, and ostensibly a fiancé, in the form of his very simpering, self-involved and snitty cousin Penelope.
With a bit of unexpected magic spells practiced in the library by Iain’s younger sister Fiona and her cousin Elizabeth cooked up to see their “true loves”, a freak snowstorm blew up and set in motion several unexpected consequences.
When Alanna is found at death’s door in the snow, miles from her home, Iain has no choice but to shelter in a small crofter’s cottage and try to thaw her out. An injury and the unusually snowy weather require Alanna to stay at Carigleith while she heals, delaying both her wedding and Iain’s begrudgingly offered proposal to Penelope.
From the instant flash of magic that Fiona and Elizabeth experiment with, to Auld Annie the fey healer and overwhelming mother figure in the household, Cornwall imbues the story with a flavor that is uniquely felt in Scotland, a feeling that is as indescribable as it is palpable. Each character is blessed (or burdened) with personalities that bring them to life instantly. From the sweet and gentle Fiona to the protective and wonderful Annie, with Iain and Alana being wonderfully well-matched and solidly good hearted people, this is a story that will have you wanting to travel back to experience them for yourself. And perhaps to push Penelope into the loch – or off a chair, since the ‘outdoors’ is foreign to her. A lovely romance that takes the time to build complete characters and a solid sense of meant to be while creating imagery that brings Scotland to life, this is a not miss book for fans of historical romance, or those trying the genre for the first time.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
February 15, 2015
This book did not ring my bell. It had hints of a forbidden romance and a sexy Highland laird, but it just did not engage me. There is a lot of narrative around the dialogue and wayyy too many cut-scenes that took me away from the core romance. And the romance itself was kind of meh.
Lady Alanna is betrothed to marry a marquess she has barely laid eyes on. Her sister jilted him and now her mother is forcing her to take her sister’s place. Alanna is a good girl, agreeable and pliant, and she plans on doing as her mother asks. But during a walk the day before her wedding, she gets lost in a snowstorm and is injured. Iain, the laird of the neighboring lands, stumbles upon her and spirits the unconscious woman to a nearby cottage for the night. He keeps her warm and mends her up before taking her back to his castle.
Poor Iain has an unwanted marriage on his horizon as well. He has just inherited an English earldom he never wanted… and a cousin who is insisting on becoming his bride. Iain feels nothing for her, but worries that he may need her guidance to learn to deal with the English. Penelope is a haughty brat, though, completely out of touch with the Highland way of life, and that could not be more obvious when juxtaposed to Alanna and the way she quickly settles in.
So Iain and Alanna become taken with each other right away, but both fight it because they think they should marry someone else. And each thinks the other is already taken. That’s pretty much the entire conflict. Not exactly insurmountable. I had real trouble believing either one of them could hold on to the idea of marrying someone they didn’t even like for as long as they did. Not that I really had deep emotion from them towards each other either, but at least they were interested in one another.
The author kept cutting away from the romance, though, for scenes with Alanna’s mother, her fiance, her brother, some random folks among Iain’s people, and every single person involved in transporting a letter from Alanna to her brother. These chapters bored me to tears. At first, they were minor annoyances and grew to be a true source of frustration. I didn’t care about the lady having a baby or 10 ways people embellished the story of Alanna’s rescue. All it did was fracture the already lackluster main story line.
The book wasn’t terrible. It was just slow and it didn’t really speak to me.
Rating: C/C-
*ARC Provided by Avon
Lady Alanna is betrothed to marry a marquess she has barely laid eyes on. Her sister jilted him and now her mother is forcing her to take her sister’s place. Alanna is a good girl, agreeable and pliant, and she plans on doing as her mother asks. But during a walk the day before her wedding, she gets lost in a snowstorm and is injured. Iain, the laird of the neighboring lands, stumbles upon her and spirits the unconscious woman to a nearby cottage for the night. He keeps her warm and mends her up before taking her back to his castle.
Poor Iain has an unwanted marriage on his horizon as well. He has just inherited an English earldom he never wanted… and a cousin who is insisting on becoming his bride. Iain feels nothing for her, but worries that he may need her guidance to learn to deal with the English. Penelope is a haughty brat, though, completely out of touch with the Highland way of life, and that could not be more obvious when juxtaposed to Alanna and the way she quickly settles in.
So Iain and Alanna become taken with each other right away, but both fight it because they think they should marry someone else. And each thinks the other is already taken. That’s pretty much the entire conflict. Not exactly insurmountable. I had real trouble believing either one of them could hold on to the idea of marrying someone they didn’t even like for as long as they did. Not that I really had deep emotion from them towards each other either, but at least they were interested in one another.
The author kept cutting away from the romance, though, for scenes with Alanna’s mother, her fiance, her brother, some random folks among Iain’s people, and every single person involved in transporting a letter from Alanna to her brother. These chapters bored me to tears. At first, they were minor annoyances and grew to be a true source of frustration. I didn’t care about the lady having a baby or 10 ways people embellished the story of Alanna’s rescue. All it did was fracture the already lackluster main story line.
The book wasn’t terrible. It was just slow and it didn’t really speak to me.
Rating: C/C-
*ARC Provided by Avon
December 18, 2015
This was a good story. It stalled for me toward the end as it was drawn out with a mis-interpretation of an event, something I don't appreciate as it is disrespectful to the hero and heroine. And the reader for that matter. Iain is a loveable hero and I have a weakness for Scottish heroes. Alanna was great as his heroine and I loved her just as much (although she tended to run away from difficult situations instead of facing them but there would be no story to begin with without that tendency). The four stars instead of three are because of them. There are also a couple of tweens who have all the fun and add to the enjoyment of Christmas festivities and copious amounts of snow.
The last quarter of the e-book has some errors like Iain was typed Ian and Lord Merridew was walking toward a group and then in the next paragraph he was getting up from his chair. There were also sentences that suggested rewriting was done but both ideas were left in. As this is a full novel and not a self-published novella I hold Avon Impulse responsible and hope that they take their publishing more seriously as I am not an English language expert at all and yet these stood out quite plainly.
The last quarter of the e-book has some errors like Iain was typed Ian and Lord Merridew was walking toward a group and then in the next paragraph he was getting up from his chair. There were also sentences that suggested rewriting was done but both ideas were left in. As this is a full novel and not a self-published novella I hold Avon Impulse responsible and hope that they take their publishing more seriously as I am not an English language expert at all and yet these stood out quite plainly.
June 16, 2015
Why did I wait for so long to read this? It was a worthy successor to the previous book, Megan's story.I am so fed up with feisty heroines and rake heroes.Alanna and Iain are nice.Both of them.Believe me a nice heroine AND a nice hero are rare these days.But nice doesn't mean being a doormat here.
By the time Alanna and Iain fall in love, we understand why these two people are in love.And the peek into the lives of the clan members was very welcome.Especially the way rumor changed the tale of Alanna's rescue.By the time her message reached her brother it was something else entirely.Really loved that scene.
Looking forward to Sorcha's story.And I would really like Fiona's and Elizabeth's too.Those two cousins are great at stirring up magic.
By the time Alanna and Iain fall in love, we understand why these two people are in love.And the peek into the lives of the clan members was very welcome.Especially the way rumor changed the tale of Alanna's rescue.By the time her message reached her brother it was something else entirely.Really loved that scene.
Looking forward to Sorcha's story.And I would really like Fiona's and Elizabeth's too.Those two cousins are great at stirring up magic.
May 30, 2016
Alanna and Iain have to be one of the sweetest couples I've read to date. Both of them feel strongly obligated to do the right thing and genuinely enjoy helping others-I mean it's really weird to not have some petty moments between the H/h! They're definitely suited for each other, you can spot that a mile away, and the drama provided by Iain's annoying cousin Penelope and her mother Marjorie read like a comedy of errors..Penelope was shameless in her pursuit to the point of idiocy.
Once Upon A Highland Christmas is a sweet, holiday read full of magic and charm. I happily recommend this book to anyone who loves the requisite hot Scotsman, intelligent heroine, and enjoy comedy and mischief from a slew of secondary characters-and Nessa the pig.
Once Upon A Highland Christmas is a sweet, holiday read full of magic and charm. I happily recommend this book to anyone who loves the requisite hot Scotsman, intelligent heroine, and enjoy comedy and mischief from a slew of secondary characters-and Nessa the pig.
January 6, 2015
I really liked Iain and Alanna - more than the other couples so far in this series.
I thought the writing was very good and the story was interesting. I liked the chemistry between Iain and Alanna - it was very believable.
What cost this book a star was the conflict that kept these two apart. It seemed a bit contrived and forced. And don't even get me started on Penelope - who is the daughter of a viscount, so would be the honorable Miss Curry NOT Lady Penelope (improper formal address is my biggest peeve in HR) anyway, that witch got off way too easy in my opinion.
All in all, I liked this book and would recommend it.
I thought the writing was very good and the story was interesting. I liked the chemistry between Iain and Alanna - it was very believable.
What cost this book a star was the conflict that kept these two apart. It seemed a bit contrived and forced. And don't even get me started on Penelope - who is the daughter of a viscount, so would be the honorable Miss Curry NOT Lady Penelope (improper formal address is my biggest peeve in HR) anyway, that witch got off way too easy in my opinion.
All in all, I liked this book and would recommend it.
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January 1, 2015Almost perfect
I really liked Iain and Alanna - more than the other couples so far in this series.
I thought the writing was very good and the story was interesting. I liked the chemistry between Iain and Alanna - it was very believable.
What cost this book a star was the conflict that kept these two apart. It seemed a bit contrived and forced. And don't even get me started on Penelope - who is the daughter of a viscount, so would be the honorable Miss Curry NOT Lady Penelope (improper formal address is my biggest peeve in HR) anyway, that witch got off way too easy in my opinion.
All in all, I liked this book and would recommend it.
I really liked Iain and Alanna - more than the other couples so far in this series.
I thought the writing was very good and the story was interesting. I liked the chemistry between Iain and Alanna - it was very believable.
What cost this book a star was the conflict that kept these two apart. It seemed a bit contrived and forced. And don't even get me started on Penelope - who is the daughter of a viscount, so would be the honorable Miss Curry NOT Lady Penelope (improper formal address is my biggest peeve in HR) anyway, that witch got off way too easy in my opinion.
All in all, I liked this book and would recommend it.
February 6, 2015
Wonderful historical romance filled with love and even some magic. Iain and Alanna are perfect for each other and the secondary characters are all great - except for Penelope, but that's just because she is so easy to hate. I haven't read the first two books in the series, but Ms. Cornwall has got me hooked now, and I'm sure I love them just as much!
eARC provided via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
eARC provided via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2016
As Christmas novella's go, this one is one of the best I've read in a long while. Truly sweet and tender with plenty of characters to intrigue and entertain.
I loved everything about this story, especially the magic spells and magic of Christmas that seals the love and romance of our two protagonists.
This is a definite must read for this season!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
I loved everything about this story, especially the magic spells and magic of Christmas that seals the love and romance of our two protagonists.
This is a definite must read for this season!
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
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