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Stung By The Highlander: Mountain Men of Scotland
She knows her herbs, her bees, and her boundaries.
He’s about to cross all three … again.Isla MacLeod has no time for smooth-talking charmers with big-city plans and sculpted jaws. Especially not Rory Scott. Not now. Not after the way he left. Her bees need tending. Her tinctures need bottling. And her Highland cottage shop runs just fine without his disruption … or his brand of tall, dark, rich, and handsome.But Rory’s return to Kilbrae isn’t just a visit. He’s back with a proposal that could change everything for the village … and a second chance he’s not sure he deserves. Isla, fiery and fierce as ever, is the one obstacle standing in his way.The problem?
The chemistry between them never died.
And one stolen kiss proves just how dangerous old sparks can be.He came to win her back and possibly strike a deal.
She’s there to guard her heart.
But in the wild heart of the Highlands, some boundaries were made to be crossed.She lives by moonlight and wildflowers.
He comes with contracts and plans.
One kiss … and neither of them is thinking straight anymore.
Mountain Men of ScotlandWelcome to the wild heart of the Highlands, where the mountains are steep, the fields green, the air is sharp, and the men? Unapologetically rugged.In this modern day Mountain Men of Scotland series, each story delivers a swoon-worthy romance featuring fiercely protective heroes rooted in the land and the bold women who claim their hearts. From crofters, mountain guides, and whisky distillers, these Highland men don’t just live off the grid, they write their own rules. When fate throws unexpected love their way, they’ll fight to keep it, no matter the cost.
Steeped in centuries of history and whispered folklore, this land carries a quiet kind of magic .... one that stirs the soul, ignites the senses, and makes falling in love feel inevitable. Steamy, emotional, and set against the misty, windswept beauty of Scotland, each book in this series is a standalone romance packed with heat, heart, and happily ever afters that are as satisfying as a warm fire on a stormy night.
Are you ready for wit, wisdom, and just the right amount of scandalous charm to invade your next reading experience? Let’s keep the magic of romance flowing with cakes, kilts, and kisses.
He’s about to cross all three … again.Isla MacLeod has no time for smooth-talking charmers with big-city plans and sculpted jaws. Especially not Rory Scott. Not now. Not after the way he left. Her bees need tending. Her tinctures need bottling. And her Highland cottage shop runs just fine without his disruption … or his brand of tall, dark, rich, and handsome.But Rory’s return to Kilbrae isn’t just a visit. He’s back with a proposal that could change everything for the village … and a second chance he’s not sure he deserves. Isla, fiery and fierce as ever, is the one obstacle standing in his way.The problem?
The chemistry between them never died.
And one stolen kiss proves just how dangerous old sparks can be.He came to win her back and possibly strike a deal.
She’s there to guard her heart.
But in the wild heart of the Highlands, some boundaries were made to be crossed.She lives by moonlight and wildflowers.
He comes with contracts and plans.
One kiss … and neither of them is thinking straight anymore.
Mountain Men of ScotlandWelcome to the wild heart of the Highlands, where the mountains are steep, the fields green, the air is sharp, and the men? Unapologetically rugged.In this modern day Mountain Men of Scotland series, each story delivers a swoon-worthy romance featuring fiercely protective heroes rooted in the land and the bold women who claim their hearts. From crofters, mountain guides, and whisky distillers, these Highland men don’t just live off the grid, they write their own rules. When fate throws unexpected love their way, they’ll fight to keep it, no matter the cost.
Steeped in centuries of history and whispered folklore, this land carries a quiet kind of magic .... one that stirs the soul, ignites the senses, and makes falling in love feel inevitable. Steamy, emotional, and set against the misty, windswept beauty of Scotland, each book in this series is a standalone romance packed with heat, heart, and happily ever afters that are as satisfying as a warm fire on a stormy night.
Are you ready for wit, wisdom, and just the right amount of scandalous charm to invade your next reading experience? Let’s keep the magic of romance flowing with cakes, kilts, and kisses.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2025
3 people want to read
About the author
Opal Nicks
47 books23 followersOpal’s steamy stories frequently feature independent, strong-willed females who find themselves surprisingly swept away by alpha males who pursue them with vigor and passion. Ultimately, they can’t resist the sweet satisfaction and protection these men offer. Who could?
On Writing
Opal doesn’t like being restricted to what form her stories take. She breaks rules and bends things a bit to keep the tale the way the characters want it told.
In her writing, Opal Nicks explores many different facets of relationships. She hopes to captivate you with the nuances of love. Whether through a budding early relationship or a tension-filled reunion, she gracefully conveys the power and complexity of love-speak.
Her characters often possess an unbridled energy that gives them strength to take risks and traverse peril—all for love.
On Writing
Opal doesn’t like being restricted to what form her stories take. She breaks rules and bends things a bit to keep the tale the way the characters want it told.
In her writing, Opal Nicks explores many different facets of relationships. She hopes to captivate you with the nuances of love. Whether through a budding early relationship or a tension-filled reunion, she gracefully conveys the power and complexity of love-speak.
Her characters often possess an unbridled energy that gives them strength to take risks and traverse peril—all for love.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 25, 2025
He broke her heart without a goodbye. Now he's back, and she's the only one who can bring him to his knees
Years after vanishing from Kilbrae, Rory Scott returns with big plans for an eco-retreat and one unspoken goal: win back the woman he left behind. But Isla MacLeish isn’t interested in apologies. Her life is rooted, quiet, and fiercely protected. She’s built her peace from scratch, and she’s not handing it over to the man who shattered her.
When Rory falls ill, Isla becomes the one person who can help him heal. What begins as cautious care turns into something raw and magnetic. Memories surface. Lines blur. And the woman who once burned for him finds herself torn between pain and the possibility of something real.
In Edinburgh, their worlds collide. She sees what he’s built. He sees what he broke. Together, they start to imagine something new. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and love doesn’t fix everything. Not unless it’s earned, every single day.
Isla evolves from a guarded, self-reliant woman still wounded by abandonment to someone willing to trust again and open herself to love. Rory grows from a man burdened by past mistakes and insecurity into someone capable of showing up consistently and taking emotional responsibility. Their relationship shifts from tension and mistrust to mutual understanding and emotional intimacy, built slowly through honesty, vulnerability, and small acts of care.
A steamy, second chance, slow burn, small town, grumpy sunshine, Highland mountain man romance, exploring love after betrayal, taking risks, forgiveness, healing, trust, personal growth, reconciliation, vulnerability, homecoming, grief, longing, and quiet resilience. It’s about showing up when it matters, choosing each other again and again, and turning past wounds into something worth keeping.
Years after vanishing from Kilbrae, Rory Scott returns with big plans for an eco-retreat and one unspoken goal: win back the woman he left behind. But Isla MacLeish isn’t interested in apologies. Her life is rooted, quiet, and fiercely protected. She’s built her peace from scratch, and she’s not handing it over to the man who shattered her.
When Rory falls ill, Isla becomes the one person who can help him heal. What begins as cautious care turns into something raw and magnetic. Memories surface. Lines blur. And the woman who once burned for him finds herself torn between pain and the possibility of something real.
In Edinburgh, their worlds collide. She sees what he’s built. He sees what he broke. Together, they start to imagine something new. But forgiveness doesn’t come easy, and love doesn’t fix everything. Not unless it’s earned, every single day.
Isla evolves from a guarded, self-reliant woman still wounded by abandonment to someone willing to trust again and open herself to love. Rory grows from a man burdened by past mistakes and insecurity into someone capable of showing up consistently and taking emotional responsibility. Their relationship shifts from tension and mistrust to mutual understanding and emotional intimacy, built slowly through honesty, vulnerability, and small acts of care.
A steamy, second chance, slow burn, small town, grumpy sunshine, Highland mountain man romance, exploring love after betrayal, taking risks, forgiveness, healing, trust, personal growth, reconciliation, vulnerability, homecoming, grief, longing, and quiet resilience. It’s about showing up when it matters, choosing each other again and again, and turning past wounds into something worth keeping.
August 3, 2025
Fighting for His Second Chance -
Isla didn’t think the news about Rory’s return would affect her much as he broke her heart when he left, but seeing him again brought back all her old feelings. Rory’s love for Isla had never waned on all the years he had been away, so he came back this time to fight for her with the strength and confidence he had built during his time away. Rory knew he had a long road to travel to convince Isla to give him another chance, but luckily was on his side, as he got the opportunity to get close to her when he was debilitated.
Rory took it upon himself to did everything possible to convince Isla to give them a second chance and she accepted, especially after he took her back to his home to see the life he had built and confessed his true feelings for her. I devoured this sweet and emotional second chance story in a few hours, as I couldn’t stop reading after I started. You will absolutely enjoy reading this book just as much as I did and be happy to recommend it.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Isla didn’t think the news about Rory’s return would affect her much as he broke her heart when he left, but seeing him again brought back all her old feelings. Rory’s love for Isla had never waned on all the years he had been away, so he came back this time to fight for her with the strength and confidence he had built during his time away. Rory knew he had a long road to travel to convince Isla to give him another chance, but luckily was on his side, as he got the opportunity to get close to her when he was debilitated.
Rory took it upon himself to did everything possible to convince Isla to give them a second chance and she accepted, especially after he took her back to his home to see the life he had built and confessed his true feelings for her. I devoured this sweet and emotional second chance story in a few hours, as I couldn’t stop reading after I started. You will absolutely enjoy reading this book just as much as I did and be happy to recommend it.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 26, 2025
Isla was in love with Rory and he left without a why. She had to pick up her broken heart and start over again with a promise to herself never to be hurt again. But when Rory returns successful, handsome and a big city charmer, she knows she is in trouble. He not only has a business proposal but also wants to win her back. Does he deserve a second chance? Will he leave her heart broken again? The problem is they never stopped loving each other and the chemistry is as strong as ever. Will the memory of the past keep them apart or let fate lead them back together? What a wonderful story of giving love a second chance. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2025
Second chances can be so sweet
“Because I’m not chasing her like a boy who wants to win. I’m staying like a man who’s finally learned what’s worth being still for.”
Beautifully written, heartfelt story about love, loss that forges one into something more, and the power of forgiveness. Young and scared, Rory made a big mistake. Now he is back to win Isla once more. The townsfolk interactions are stellar and the love was palpable between Isla and Rory - even when Isla was fighting it. But oh how explosive when they finally give in their feelings 🧨 🥰.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
“Because I’m not chasing her like a boy who wants to win. I’m staying like a man who’s finally learned what’s worth being still for.”
Beautifully written, heartfelt story about love, loss that forges one into something more, and the power of forgiveness. Young and scared, Rory made a big mistake. Now he is back to win Isla once more. The townsfolk interactions are stellar and the love was palpable between Isla and Rory - even when Isla was fighting it. But oh how explosive when they finally give in their feelings 🧨 🥰.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2025
He walked away without a goodbye, now he plans to stay forever - with her.
An extraordinary story with a woman, who is reluctant to give a second chance, a man, who knows who he belongs to and is willing and determined to prove it and love, so great she can’t be denied.
Spicy, sweet, healing, trust, change, choices, vulnerability, betrayal and forgiveness are making this book captivating, heartwarming and inspiring.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An extraordinary story with a woman, who is reluctant to give a second chance, a man, who knows who he belongs to and is willing and determined to prove it and love, so great she can’t be denied.
Spicy, sweet, healing, trust, change, choices, vulnerability, betrayal and forgiveness are making this book captivating, heartwarming and inspiring.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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July 23, 2025When I first imagined Isla MacLeod, I knew she’d be a force of nature.
A woman who speaks to plants more easily than people. Who keeps bees, not for honey alone -- but for the quiet hum that fills the silence. Who built a life rooted so deeply into the Highlands that even the wind knows her name.
And then Rory shows up. Or rather, returns to town.
She’s fire. He’s flint. And now everything’s about to explode.
Rory left Kilbrae years ago. Abruptly, some might say. Now he returns with big ideas and even bigger plans, hoping to change the village for the better … if only Isla will let him. But what Rory truly desires more than those things is Isla back in his orbit. He'll give up anything and everything to make that happen.
Rory learns that shiny objects won't do the trick for Isla. He has to be patient and hope she'll let him back in. Trouble is -- he doesn't expect that the girl he once knew has become the fiercest woman he’s ever met.
This story is about facing fear and healing old wounds, not all of them visible. And yes, it’s about chemistry that Isla doesn't want to admit, but finally can’t resist acting on.
Stung by the Highlander is a slow-burn romance, full of bees, herbal remedies, sharp glances, and stolen kisses. I hope readers fall for Isla and Rory the same way they fell for Finn & Maddie; Lachlan & Candy; Ewan & Sadie; and Fraser & Grace -- with a sigh, a smile, and maybe a little swoon.
Set in the fictional modern-day village of Kilbrae, this standalone romance is part of the Mountain Men of Scotland series. However, Rory and Isla's love story stands entirely on its own.
Available on all major retailers and directly on my website:
🌿 https://www.opalnicks.com
Thanks for being on this modern-day Highlander journey with me.
💛Opal
A woman who speaks to plants more easily than people. Who keeps bees, not for honey alone -- but for the quiet hum that fills the silence. Who built a life rooted so deeply into the Highlands that even the wind knows her name.
And then Rory shows up. Or rather, returns to town.
She’s fire. He’s flint. And now everything’s about to explode.
Rory left Kilbrae years ago. Abruptly, some might say. Now he returns with big ideas and even bigger plans, hoping to change the village for the better … if only Isla will let him. But what Rory truly desires more than those things is Isla back in his orbit. He'll give up anything and everything to make that happen.
Rory learns that shiny objects won't do the trick for Isla. He has to be patient and hope she'll let him back in. Trouble is -- he doesn't expect that the girl he once knew has become the fiercest woman he’s ever met.
This story is about facing fear and healing old wounds, not all of them visible. And yes, it’s about chemistry that Isla doesn't want to admit, but finally can’t resist acting on.
Stung by the Highlander is a slow-burn romance, full of bees, herbal remedies, sharp glances, and stolen kisses. I hope readers fall for Isla and Rory the same way they fell for Finn & Maddie; Lachlan & Candy; Ewan & Sadie; and Fraser & Grace -- with a sigh, a smile, and maybe a little swoon.
Set in the fictional modern-day village of Kilbrae, this standalone romance is part of the Mountain Men of Scotland series. However, Rory and Isla's love story stands entirely on its own.
Available on all major retailers and directly on my website:
🌿 https://www.opalnicks.com
Thanks for being on this modern-day Highlander journey with me.
💛Opal
July 30, 2025
This is another great addition to the series and a fab second chance romance. Rory left, years ago, to make a success of himself but yeah, he left without a goodbye for his love, Isla, something he regrets. Now he's back, looking to blend their lives and get the second chance she's sure he doesn't deserve. What's fun with this read is that you can see the love between them, no matter how hard she fought it ;) This is a story of forgiveness, healing and love. Expect a steamy HEA as you follow them on their hard won journey. Good fun!
August 6, 2025
This is a great series and I'm glad we finally got Isla's story. There's so much pain, anger, resentment, and guilt present, but there is also an enormous amount of love and fear. Youth and insecurities can make for poor decision making, as evidenced in the pages of this story. The tale that's woven is heartbreakingly realistic. The courage it takes, on both Rory and Isla's parts, to confront the pain head-on is astounding and certainly keeps you engaged and invested in what will become of this once inseparable couple.
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
I voluntarily reviewed a gift copy of this book. Happy Reading Y'all 📚
August 4, 2025
Rory and Isla shared a special night, and he left town two days later with no real reason, leaving her broken hearted. Years later he returned thinking, it would be easy seeking her forgiveness. Isla was more than angry. She had lost trust in Rory. She may be single, but she had built a life and business from the ground up after he left.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
Back to MacLeod clan and amazing series - Mountain Men Of Scotland.
Isla, Highland Apothecary Goddess needed years of healing after Rory left her. And, now when he is back, some part of her still wants him.
Very emotional and full of hopes read to enjoy. You can't put it down, you feel every vibe there. Amazing read and you will finish it in one go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Isla, Highland Apothecary Goddess needed years of healing after Rory left her. And, now when he is back, some part of her still wants him.
Very emotional and full of hopes read to enjoy. You can't put it down, you feel every vibe there. Amazing read and you will finish it in one go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2025
Isla feels unsettled, something feels off, and I’m that instant, she is reminded of a memory, something that messed her up. It crafted her into who she is, and hides secrets.
Stung by the Highlander is a good read, with an enjoyable story and well written characters. This is part of the Mountain Men of Scotland series. All great reads, grab them all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Stung by the Highlander is a good read, with an enjoyable story and well written characters. This is part of the Mountain Men of Scotland series. All great reads, grab them all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2025
This MacLeod series is fantastic. Each MacLeod gets their own HEA and never in the same way. Isla was left heartbroken when Rory left town to make money so they could have a life together. Ten years later he is back and begging for a second chance. This is not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2025
Book 4 of Mountain Men of Scotland story of Rory Scott and Isla. I have to say a second chances go that was a really great one. From the way Rory shows Isla he is all in to the way they find forgiveness in each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2025
When Rory left for the Edinburg Isla was broken until he comes back for her and he is not taking no for an answer. Isla has made a life for herself after he left and is content but when comes back her world shifts and she is not sure where she will land. Lovely story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2025
Rory left years earlier and now he's returned with a business proposal. He also wants Isla back. She's wary and he needs to prove to her that he's reliable and still loves her.
Enjoyed their story! Received a free copy.
Enjoyed their story! Received a free copy.
August 6, 2025
The author uses beautiful prose to evoke inviting images of the Highlands. There are so many emotions explored by Rory and Isla. Great supporting characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2025
They have a second chance. He's come back and wants to her back. I enjoyed how he come home wanting to win her again and their chemistry is stronger then ever. A page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews