What do you think?
Rate this book
The Turning of the Tide: A Hebridean Story
She is the Isles’ most coveted bride.
He is its most dangerous contender.
Lady Mhairi MacDonald, daughter of the King of the Isles and descendant of Robert the Bruce, has spent seven years at the Scottish court as a royal ward—the unspoken safeguard against her father’s rising favor. Caught in the web of a foreign court, she returns home to discover her hand has become the price of a fragile peace.
Promised to the victor of a grand tournament, Mhairi is a prize beyond compare, yet powerless to choose the man who will claim her. With her future no longer her own, she must decide whether to resist—or trust that God’s purposes are greater than her fears.
As warriors gather in Argyll, none stirs her dread more than Lachlan MacLean, the feared young chief of a disgraced clan. Rough-hewn and relentless, forged by hardship into a man Mhairi would never choose, Lachlan has staked everything—his clan’s survival—on winning her hand.
At first, they stand Mhairi recoils from the ruthless warrior determined to claim her, while Lachlan guards a heart shaped by loss. Yet as trials mount, both must reckon with the cost of pride, what mercy will require of them, and the call to trust what God is shaping between them may prove stronger than any kingdom.
He is its most dangerous contender.
Lady Mhairi MacDonald, daughter of the King of the Isles and descendant of Robert the Bruce, has spent seven years at the Scottish court as a royal ward—the unspoken safeguard against her father’s rising favor. Caught in the web of a foreign court, she returns home to discover her hand has become the price of a fragile peace.
Promised to the victor of a grand tournament, Mhairi is a prize beyond compare, yet powerless to choose the man who will claim her. With her future no longer her own, she must decide whether to resist—or trust that God’s purposes are greater than her fears.
As warriors gather in Argyll, none stirs her dread more than Lachlan MacLean, the feared young chief of a disgraced clan. Rough-hewn and relentless, forged by hardship into a man Mhairi would never choose, Lachlan has staked everything—his clan’s survival—on winning her hand.
At first, they stand Mhairi recoils from the ruthless warrior determined to claim her, while Lachlan guards a heart shaped by loss. Yet as trials mount, both must reckon with the cost of pride, what mercy will require of them, and the call to trust what God is shaping between them may prove stronger than any kingdom.
460 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Ashley Worrell
4 books159 followersAshley Worrell is a repentant HR professional, thankful to be writing adventure stories instead of disciplinary notices. Since leaving the HR world in 2021, she has become a full-time writer and 2023 ACFW Genesis Contest Semi-Finalist. From this work, she has created the popular Hebridean Shield series.
Ashley lives with her family and beloved dog Baxter in upstate South Carolina. When she is not spending time in the medieval Scottish isles, she enjoys playing traditional Irish percussion on her bodhrán.
Ashley lives with her family and beloved dog Baxter in upstate South Carolina. When she is not spending time in the medieval Scottish isles, she enjoys playing traditional Irish percussion on her bodhrán.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 10, 2026
I found The Turning of the Tide through a buddy read posted on Avid Readers of Christian Fiction (Facebook), and I'm so glad I did. This story was absolutely beautiful, cozy, dangerous, and faith-filled. I couldnae stop flipping the pages!
Ashley is a new-to-me author, and her writing is excellent! The story started a little bit slowly for me, but once I was hooked, I was really hooked. The characters have so much depth (many characters are real historical characters), and Ashley really did an incredible job bringing them to life. Even the smallest supporting characters, like Andrew, brought so much to the story!
Mhairi's storyline with her family was heartbreaking, and the way that Lachlan loved her without ever using her like her family did was so special. The family they formed by taking in children and teens who needed their care was such a great storyline, and I loved how that was used to bring healing to everyone involved.
There were moderate faith themes woven throughout the story, with strong themes of forgiveness and healing. I loved how both the FMC and MMC treasured the sanctity of marriage, and both tried their hardest to fulfill their marital roles, even if took some time and healing to get there. All of the marital bedroom scenes were clean and fade to black.
What I enjoyed:
🏴 The Isles setting
🏴 So much history & real characters
🏴 The marriage tournament
🏴 Mhairi + Lachlan = 💙
🏴 All of the adopted bairns
🏴 The coziness of the keep
🏴 The various dialects written in the dialogues 🤌🏼
⚠️ Content Warnings:
-Unwanted kiss
-Forced marriage
-Stormy seas, near drowning
-Fighting, jousting, sword fights
-Abuse/manipulation of FMC for political gain
-Abduction & confinement
-Family infighting/political tug-of-war
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 4.75 Stars
Writing: 5.0
Characters & Plot: 5.0
Faith & Content: 4.5
Enjoyability: 4.5
If you enjoy richly layered historical fictions, especially medieval and Scotland settings, this is a gem of a read. I highly recommend!
Ashley is a new-to-me author, and her writing is excellent! The story started a little bit slowly for me, but once I was hooked, I was really hooked. The characters have so much depth (many characters are real historical characters), and Ashley really did an incredible job bringing them to life. Even the smallest supporting characters, like Andrew, brought so much to the story!
Mhairi's storyline with her family was heartbreaking, and the way that Lachlan loved her without ever using her like her family did was so special. The family they formed by taking in children and teens who needed their care was such a great storyline, and I loved how that was used to bring healing to everyone involved.
There were moderate faith themes woven throughout the story, with strong themes of forgiveness and healing. I loved how both the FMC and MMC treasured the sanctity of marriage, and both tried their hardest to fulfill their marital roles, even if took some time and healing to get there. All of the marital bedroom scenes were clean and fade to black.
What I enjoyed:
🏴 The Isles setting
🏴 So much history & real characters
🏴 The marriage tournament
🏴 Mhairi + Lachlan = 💙
🏴 All of the adopted bairns
🏴 The coziness of the keep
🏴 The various dialects written in the dialogues 🤌🏼
⚠️ Content Warnings:
-Unwanted kiss
-Forced marriage
-Stormy seas, near drowning
-Fighting, jousting, sword fights
-Abuse/manipulation of FMC for political gain
-Abduction & confinement
-Family infighting/political tug-of-war
My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 4.75 Stars
Writing: 5.0
Characters & Plot: 5.0
Faith & Content: 4.5
Enjoyability: 4.5
If you enjoy richly layered historical fictions, especially medieval and Scotland settings, this is a gem of a read. I highly recommend!
November 1, 2026
Breathtaking
Beautiful - in all the ways that matter 💗
Love. Faith. Family
I adored the secondary characters and Ashley's description of the isles and their way of life. On every front, this was an amazing, enriching read 💕
Beautiful - in all the ways that matter 💗
Love. Faith. Family
I adored the secondary characters and Ashley's description of the isles and their way of life. On every front, this was an amazing, enriching read 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 ⭐️ Absolutely stoked to receive an ARC of this great book from the author. And such a beautiful tribute to Ashley’s family history.
A moment for the cover, so pretty!!
Also really loved hearing more about Lachlan and Mhairi and seeing Aoife, Angus and Murdoch as kids. This gets me way more excited for the next instalment of the Hebridean Shield as I’m now way more invested in the characters.
A moment for the cover, so pretty!!
Also really loved hearing more about Lachlan and Mhairi and seeing Aoife, Angus and Murdoch as kids. This gets me way more excited for the next instalment of the Hebridean Shield as I’m now way more invested in the characters.
September 7, 2026
This gets 5 stars because it's exactly what I wanted and delivered it so well.
While reading, I thought I was going to have an issue with some things I personally thought were too modern, both in action and thought process, but...
I just loved it way too much to care.
There were even a couple of times it dragged a little because of all the names and regions to keep up with and then BAM! The action or the sweetness of the found family, or romance would pick up just when I needed it to.
We've got Marriage of Convenience (or won in marriage after a tournament!), found family, protective MMC, a rescued damsel who doesn't make terrible decisions that land her there(there is a moment where I thought she'd done something dumb, but I think I misread it at first. I don't know if I 100% believe it had to be that way, but...I'm just going to go with it).
Both characters have their flaws, but you love them anyway. The FMC is such a prissy princess who worries about mud on her clothes, but also has such a sweetness about her--ahhhh, when the 'boys' want to defend her in a *certain moment* it's just so, so lovely.
I really liked this novel, and I hope I can revisit it soon.
While reading, I thought I was going to have an issue with some things I personally thought were too modern, both in action and thought process, but...
I just loved it way too much to care.
There were even a couple of times it dragged a little because of all the names and regions to keep up with and then BAM! The action or the sweetness of the found family, or romance would pick up just when I needed it to.
We've got Marriage of Convenience (or won in marriage after a tournament!), found family, protective MMC, a rescued damsel who doesn't make terrible decisions that land her there(there is a moment where I thought she'd done something dumb, but I think I misread it at first. I don't know if I 100% believe it had to be that way, but...I'm just going to go with it).
Both characters have their flaws, but you love them anyway. The FMC is such a prissy princess who worries about mud on her clothes, but also has such a sweetness about her--ahhhh, when the 'boys' want to defend her in a *certain moment* it's just so, so lovely.
I really liked this novel, and I hope I can revisit it soon.
August 20, 2026
“You have been shaken to the foundations of your faith in order to render you useless. But you have endured. Not in your own strength, but because of the one interceding for you before the throne.”
This amazing story gave me all the feels. I laughed, wanted to shake sense into characters, cried (like tears rolling down my cheeks could barely see the words cried), was worried, and sighed in happiness and contentment. I felt like I was there seeing and experiencing everything myself. It was fantastic!! Full of found family, betrayal, secrets, and romance. And the tournament and fighting, incredible! This was my first book by Ashley and I will definitely be reading her Hebridean Shield series.
Mhairi is intelligent, gentle, and joyful. She was dutiful yet still gave her opinion. I loved her determination to care for Lachlan and make a home for him. I absolutely adored her connection with the children (this is where many of my tears came from). I loved how she accepted Lachlan, encouraged him, and helped set his eyes on God. She loved Lachlan exactly how he needed to be loved. Lachlan is strong, protective, and guarded. I loved his growth! I loved when he was honest with Mhairi and shared his past, his hurts, and his true feelings. I loved his determination to do right, to care for the children, and once he stopped fighting it to love Mhairi. His connection with each of the children was amazing. I loved how we see that children are a blessing in a marriage. Lachlan and Mhairi fight an uphill battle for their love but it was absolutely beautiful!
A few more quotes:
“I’ve made up my mind, princess,” he ground out, his voice shaking her senses. “You better be ready to move to Mull.”
“Lord help me, I’m about tae lose every argument for the rest of my life.”
“I simply wish her full and proper name recorded.” He struck his breast once with a closed fist. “My wife. Of my clan.” His eyes never left Mhairi. “Mháiri Marsaili Lilias MacLean.”
“You bring light and life wherever you go.
This complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This amazing story gave me all the feels. I laughed, wanted to shake sense into characters, cried (like tears rolling down my cheeks could barely see the words cried), was worried, and sighed in happiness and contentment. I felt like I was there seeing and experiencing everything myself. It was fantastic!! Full of found family, betrayal, secrets, and romance. And the tournament and fighting, incredible! This was my first book by Ashley and I will definitely be reading her Hebridean Shield series.
Mhairi is intelligent, gentle, and joyful. She was dutiful yet still gave her opinion. I loved her determination to care for Lachlan and make a home for him. I absolutely adored her connection with the children (this is where many of my tears came from). I loved how she accepted Lachlan, encouraged him, and helped set his eyes on God. She loved Lachlan exactly how he needed to be loved. Lachlan is strong, protective, and guarded. I loved his growth! I loved when he was honest with Mhairi and shared his past, his hurts, and his true feelings. I loved his determination to do right, to care for the children, and once he stopped fighting it to love Mhairi. His connection with each of the children was amazing. I loved how we see that children are a blessing in a marriage. Lachlan and Mhairi fight an uphill battle for their love but it was absolutely beautiful!
A few more quotes:
“I’ve made up my mind, princess,” he ground out, his voice shaking her senses. “You better be ready to move to Mull.”
“Lord help me, I’m about tae lose every argument for the rest of my life.”
“I simply wish her full and proper name recorded.” He struck his breast once with a closed fist. “My wife. Of my clan.” His eyes never left Mhairi. “Mháiri Marsaili Lilias MacLean.”
“You bring light and life wherever you go.
This complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a complimentary early copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I loved, loved reading Lachlan and Mhairi’s story! Just when I thought it would be a good place to stop for the night, there would be a twist! Sleep was lost. The storytelling is phenomenal, and I didn’t want the book to end!
Mhairi’s faith is like a shelter for those close to her — it steadies her, providing love and comfort to those in her care. What makes this even more precious is how Lachlan protects her. It is so beautiful!
This story just has the biggest heart, filled with love, devotion, and found family! It is laugh-out-loud funny at times, there are the occasions when the swoon is set on high, and there are the relatable moments about pain and loss of control — when all that remains is God.
The Turning of the Tide is the kind of story that I will remember, and it is without a doubt one of my all-time favorites! I loved it!
Content:
Christian Historical Romance
Strong Faith Themes
Intimacy level: Fade to black between a married couple | Mature discussions with vague references | References to premarital intimacy before the novel starts
Language: Infrequent use of “h*ll”
Violence (befitting the time period)
Sensitive subjects: unhealthy family relationships; ab*se; ch*ldhood trauma; su*cide before the novel starts
I loved, loved reading Lachlan and Mhairi’s story! Just when I thought it would be a good place to stop for the night, there would be a twist! Sleep was lost. The storytelling is phenomenal, and I didn’t want the book to end!
Mhairi’s faith is like a shelter for those close to her — it steadies her, providing love and comfort to those in her care. What makes this even more precious is how Lachlan protects her. It is so beautiful!
This story just has the biggest heart, filled with love, devotion, and found family! It is laugh-out-loud funny at times, there are the occasions when the swoon is set on high, and there are the relatable moments about pain and loss of control — when all that remains is God.
The Turning of the Tide is the kind of story that I will remember, and it is without a doubt one of my all-time favorites! I loved it!
Content:
Christian Historical Romance
Strong Faith Themes
Intimacy level: Fade to black between a married couple | Mature discussions with vague references | References to premarital intimacy before the novel starts
Language: Infrequent use of “h*ll”
Violence (befitting the time period)
Sensitive subjects: unhealthy family relationships; ab*se; ch*ldhood trauma; su*cide before the novel starts
August 26, 2026
This book was FANTASTIC!🤩 I love this whole series, and this may be my favorite so far! I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll just say that the emotional roller coaster I went on was so worth it! Beautiful storytelling with Christian themes woven throughout. I will absolutely recommend this to all my friends! Can’t wait to see what comes next in the story!
August 29, 2026
I am so in love with this author’s books and this one is no exception. If you like medieval action and romance you have to read this book. It is full of passion, fighting, kings, betrayal, and love. It is also an origin story for some of our beloved characters from the Hebridean Shield series. Characters like Murdoch and Aiofe who star in the next novel in that series. If you have wondered about the story behind Lachlan and Mhairi’s love, this is it and it is epic. BTW: I received an ARC of this novel and I was NOT required to review or give a favorable rating.
September 7, 2026
This is the first novel I've read by Ashley Worrel, and I can't believe I didn't read any of her works sooner. If you know me, you know I love a medieval novel, and this checked every box.
September 6, 2026
This book has it all - medieval setting, fierce competition (including jousting), enemies to lovers, a sweet yet strong heroine, a fierce hero, and lots of action.
Lachlan is bade by the King of the Isles to enter the lists as the strongest of the island warriors. The prize? The hand of the King's daughter Mhairi. Lachlan doesn't fight for her, but for her dowry which will feed his struggling clan.
Mhairi met the warrior years ago, and he frightened her with his fierceness. But if he doesn't win the competition, she'll be sent back to Scotland with a husband who wants her to conform to his standards of a lady.
I loved watching them fall in love, face their fears and insecurities, & grow into their roles of adoptive parents to a bunch of unruly orphans.
For fans of Carrie Cotten's The Huntress, and Jaye Knights Alliance Bride.
Lachlan is bade by the King of the Isles to enter the lists as the strongest of the island warriors. The prize? The hand of the King's daughter Mhairi. Lachlan doesn't fight for her, but for her dowry which will feed his struggling clan.
Mhairi met the warrior years ago, and he frightened her with his fierceness. But if he doesn't win the competition, she'll be sent back to Scotland with a husband who wants her to conform to his standards of a lady.
I loved watching them fall in love, face their fears and insecurities, & grow into their roles of adoptive parents to a bunch of unruly orphans.
For fans of Carrie Cotten's The Huntress, and Jaye Knights Alliance Bride.
October 11, 2026
PHENOMENAL!
Mairi was one of my favourite characters of all time. Her honesty, willingness to sacrifice, humility and care? She had such a beautiful character arc. I loved this story. I loved the twists and turns and all the plot developments. I could read it over right away. I love Ashley Worrell books!
Mairi was one of my favourite characters of all time. Her honesty, willingness to sacrifice, humility and care? She had such a beautiful character arc. I loved this story. I loved the twists and turns and all the plot developments. I could read it over right away. I love Ashley Worrell books!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved the series from Ashley and this addition definitely did not disappoint!!
The story, the characters, the writing, from the very start I found it hard to put down.
Ashley has a real gift of drawing you into a story and getting you to fall in love with the characters with such effortless storytelling.
This book was an absolute joy to read and I know I’ll be reading it again!
The story, the characters, the writing, from the very start I found it hard to put down.
Ashley has a real gift of drawing you into a story and getting you to fall in love with the characters with such effortless storytelling.
This book was an absolute joy to read and I know I’ll be reading it again!
September 4, 2026
Ashley does it again. She is truly such a gifted writer. The way she weaves the gospel and the truths of scripture into her stories is so beautiful. Radiance of the Moon was such a beautiful book and this one is as well. It was long—just under 500 pages and I finished it in a day because I just couldn’t put it down. ( and I was in the car most of the day also 🤣) There were so many elements that were so sweet and beautiful.
I’m starting to think of Ashley as the queen of slow-burn romance. It was so well done. In both books, she paints such a beautiful picture of the love between a husband and wife. All of the biblical elements of submission, headship, protection, being a team and complimenting each other shine beautifully in this story. Especially in her scenes involving romance and “the marriage bed” if you will 😂. They capture the deeper spiritual elements of what it means to be one flesh, on a soul deep level with another person. I’ve never seen that aspect of a story so well done as in both of her books. The way that she is able to get it on paper is truly remarkable. It’s biblical and absolutely beautiful to my hopeless romantic heart. She never crosses any lines. It never feels dirty or like she’s just throwing those elements around for the sake of adding content. It’s part of the story and it has a purpose. I’m so impressed by her ability as a writer in this area.
There were so many comical moments. A few moments that had me tearing up. I loved the tournament and watching Lachlan compete for Mhairi’s hand. It was truly entertaining. 😆
The world needs more stories like this. Men being strong, godly men and women wanting them to be and letting them be. Highly recommend. Well done Ashley!
*Some of the historical elements did get a little confusing to me and some of the Scots is hard to read. But, I’m not taking stars off for that because Ashely’s attention to detail and historical accuracy is extremely well done. She knows her stuff.*
I’m starting to think of Ashley as the queen of slow-burn romance. It was so well done. In both books, she paints such a beautiful picture of the love between a husband and wife. All of the biblical elements of submission, headship, protection, being a team and complimenting each other shine beautifully in this story. Especially in her scenes involving romance and “the marriage bed” if you will 😂. They capture the deeper spiritual elements of what it means to be one flesh, on a soul deep level with another person. I’ve never seen that aspect of a story so well done as in both of her books. The way that she is able to get it on paper is truly remarkable. It’s biblical and absolutely beautiful to my hopeless romantic heart. She never crosses any lines. It never feels dirty or like she’s just throwing those elements around for the sake of adding content. It’s part of the story and it has a purpose. I’m so impressed by her ability as a writer in this area.
There were so many comical moments. A few moments that had me tearing up. I loved the tournament and watching Lachlan compete for Mhairi’s hand. It was truly entertaining. 😆
The world needs more stories like this. Men being strong, godly men and women wanting them to be and letting them be. Highly recommend. Well done Ashley!
*Some of the historical elements did get a little confusing to me and some of the Scots is hard to read. But, I’m not taking stars off for that because Ashely’s attention to detail and historical accuracy is extremely well done. She knows her stuff.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was so nice to see a glimpse into another side of the series. I absolutely fell in love with the first three of the original series, and I’m so excited for the next. The characters and plot are exactly what you would expect from the author, and it was like reading a big welcome back hug. Her writing is absolutely effortless; like watching a movie (I truly hope someone turns her books into a TV series. It would be incredible). It connected a lot of dots when it came to certain characters and their relationships, so I think it being published after the first three was a really smart decision. The story itself seemed more toned down versus the others of the related series, which seemed purposeful given the plot and made sense. I can’t say this FMC was my favorite; it’s hard to compare to the others because they were such powerhouses in their own way though. But the romance, the adventure, the side characters, the hesitations, unspoken secrets, the strength of their bond, it was all a beautiful. I absolutely adore the way the author creates real female characters, not these warrior goddess females bantering and hating on the men. The men and women of this series are designed as God intended, to smooth out each other’s flaws and demonstrate strength, kindness, and beauty in their own way. I also love how the author has introduced the significance of children on the love between a man and woman and how it impacts their perspectives and romance. Would highly recommend! Easily a top favorite series! Thank you to the author for letting me read this early! I cannot survive the wait for book 4…
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow. I just finished this book last night, and I couldn't put it down and I also did not want it to finish because I didn't want it to be over. This whole series has been phenomenal, I even think that these are the best books I have read this year.
I didn't think I would like this as much as the Speed of Lightning, which was my favorite so far, but Ashley has outdone herself again.
The plot was so good, it kept moving to keep me so engaged and it was hard to see what would happen next which made it so good to read.
This book filled in so many gaps that I didn't even know were missing and it really enriched the other books that I have already read in the series.
Mhairi was amazing, I don't always love the heroines in books, they are usually basket cases, weak and whiney, but she was strong, witty, smart and full of grace and she was funny! Lachlan was also so great, in the other books I just pictured him as old for some reason, but these books brought out his wit and strength and I just loved his character. Both him and Mhairi together were amazing.
I can't count how many times I laughed out loud as I read this book and the romance was so swoony without being spicy at all.
I can't wait to read Murdoch's story, I loved the beginning of his and Aoife's story, I just know its going to be great.
Full of adventure, faith, romance and beautiful descriptions, I absolutely loved this book.
I was so lucky to receive this book early from the author, I was not required to write a review but wanted to because it was just THAT GOOD.
Can't wait to read the next in the series!
I didn't think I would like this as much as the Speed of Lightning, which was my favorite so far, but Ashley has outdone herself again.
The plot was so good, it kept moving to keep me so engaged and it was hard to see what would happen next which made it so good to read.
This book filled in so many gaps that I didn't even know were missing and it really enriched the other books that I have already read in the series.
Mhairi was amazing, I don't always love the heroines in books, they are usually basket cases, weak and whiney, but she was strong, witty, smart and full of grace and she was funny! Lachlan was also so great, in the other books I just pictured him as old for some reason, but these books brought out his wit and strength and I just loved his character. Both him and Mhairi together were amazing.
I can't count how many times I laughed out loud as I read this book and the romance was so swoony without being spicy at all.
I can't wait to read Murdoch's story, I loved the beginning of his and Aoife's story, I just know its going to be great.
Full of adventure, faith, romance and beautiful descriptions, I absolutely loved this book.
I was so lucky to receive this book early from the author, I was not required to write a review but wanted to because it was just THAT GOOD.
Can't wait to read the next in the series!
September 11, 2026
What a heartfelt story about loss, the fear of love and happiness to only possibly lose it, and the never-ending love and grace of God.
These characters felt real. Like they lived and breathed. The found family was precious. And Lachlan and Mhairi’s story was wonderful to watch unfold. I laughed, cried, and wanted so much for everything to work out for each character.
This book took on so many difficult topics and didn’t shy away from the hurt and doubt they can sometimes cause in our relationship with Christ, but oh man did it show the never-ending love and beautiful plans God has for us even when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
Bad things happen in this world. Sin exists. But we have a God who is bigger than all of that. He can take the jagged, broken pieces, and hurt in our lives and turn it into more than we can imagine. There is hope. We don’t have to carry our hurts alone. There is a God who will carry them for us while mending our broken hearts. The Turning of the Tide shows this beautifully.
If you're looking for a book that’ll leave a mark on your heart, while making you wish the story wouldn’t end, then you’ll love The Turning of the Tide. I was given a complimentary copy of The Turning of the Tide. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: Fade to black, kisses only, mentions of the marriage bed and some thoughts leading up to that moment, loss of child, alcoholism, some violence
These characters felt real. Like they lived and breathed. The found family was precious. And Lachlan and Mhairi’s story was wonderful to watch unfold. I laughed, cried, and wanted so much for everything to work out for each character.
This book took on so many difficult topics and didn’t shy away from the hurt and doubt they can sometimes cause in our relationship with Christ, but oh man did it show the never-ending love and beautiful plans God has for us even when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
Bad things happen in this world. Sin exists. But we have a God who is bigger than all of that. He can take the jagged, broken pieces, and hurt in our lives and turn it into more than we can imagine. There is hope. We don’t have to carry our hurts alone. There is a God who will carry them for us while mending our broken hearts. The Turning of the Tide shows this beautifully.
If you're looking for a book that’ll leave a mark on your heart, while making you wish the story wouldn’t end, then you’ll love The Turning of the Tide. I was given a complimentary copy of The Turning of the Tide. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content: Fade to black, kisses only, mentions of the marriage bed and some thoughts leading up to that moment, loss of child, alcoholism, some violence
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every time I read one of Ashley’s books, I think, there is absolutely no way she can outdo herself after this one.
And then she does it AGAIN.
I could not put this book down. I read almost the entire thing in one sitting. One minute I felt like my heart had been ripped straight out of my chest, the next I was laughing out loud at the banter, then I was crying, and then I was genuinely afraid. HOW does she do this every single time?!
Ashley is not afraid to go deep. Nothing about her books is light or shallow, but this one especially has so much depth. The writing, the characters, the emotions—you don’t just read the story, you feel it.
Absolutely worth the read. Just consider this your warning: tell your family you’ll be unavailable for the next 24 hours, grab a blanket and a giant water bottle, find somewhere no one can bother you, and settle in.
Because you’re reading this one in a single sitting.
Ashley, you’ve done it again.
And then she does it AGAIN.
I could not put this book down. I read almost the entire thing in one sitting. One minute I felt like my heart had been ripped straight out of my chest, the next I was laughing out loud at the banter, then I was crying, and then I was genuinely afraid. HOW does she do this every single time?!
Ashley is not afraid to go deep. Nothing about her books is light or shallow, but this one especially has so much depth. The writing, the characters, the emotions—you don’t just read the story, you feel it.
Absolutely worth the read. Just consider this your warning: tell your family you’ll be unavailable for the next 24 hours, grab a blanket and a giant water bottle, find somewhere no one can bother you, and settle in.
Because you’re reading this one in a single sitting.
Ashley, you’ve done it again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amazing. Ashley Worrell does not disappoint in her latest novel, The Turning of the Tide. In the first few chapters I had goosebumps, laughed a few times, and I had tears! Not sad tears, but the hope-filled kind.
I wasn't expecting so much action and suspense! It had my adrenaline kicking in! Then I was worrying and angst-filled! The mystery and suspense was so well-written, and I was invested!
As in the author's other books, the hero is swoony and protective, and the heroine isn't a helpless pushover. I loved them both, along with many of the side characters.
I had trouble finishing the story because I kept crying! Several of the characters grew and matured. Some of their life lessons applied to me. And even though I predicted a few aspects of the story, they played out so naturally, I cried happy tears.
I honestly can't put into words how wonderful this story is! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
I received an early copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
I wasn't expecting so much action and suspense! It had my adrenaline kicking in! Then I was worrying and angst-filled! The mystery and suspense was so well-written, and I was invested!
As in the author's other books, the hero is swoony and protective, and the heroine isn't a helpless pushover. I loved them both, along with many of the side characters.
I had trouble finishing the story because I kept crying! Several of the characters grew and matured. Some of their life lessons applied to me. And even though I predicted a few aspects of the story, they played out so naturally, I cried happy tears.
I honestly can't put into words how wonderful this story is! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
I received an early copy from the author. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lachlan and Mhairi’s story was absolutely amazing! First of all, dual POV—which is a must for me! I loved being able to experience the story through both of their eyes. This book was exhilarating from beginning to end. The adventure, suspense, battles, romance, and emotion made it feel like I was watching a movie play out in my head. I laughed, I cried, and I was completely invested in these characters.
And Lachlan… 😍 He is the kind of MMC you fall in love with over and over again as the pages turn. Protective, fierce, courageous, and completely devoted to Mhairi. Mhairi was just as wonderful—wise, beautiful, strong, and devoted.
I especially loved the theme of redemption and getting a second chance at life and love. It added so much heart to an already exciting story.A beautiful, clean romance filled with adventure, danger, devotion, and redemption. I absolutely recommend this one! ❤️📖
And Lachlan… 😍 He is the kind of MMC you fall in love with over and over again as the pages turn. Protective, fierce, courageous, and completely devoted to Mhairi. Mhairi was just as wonderful—wise, beautiful, strong, and devoted.
I especially loved the theme of redemption and getting a second chance at life and love. It added so much heart to an already exciting story.A beautiful, clean romance filled with adventure, danger, devotion, and redemption. I absolutely recommend this one! ❤️📖
October 10, 2026
This was amazing ! I could not put it down, I was invested in the main characters' story from the first page ! The Gaelic and other local languages spelling took me a minute to get used to but I quickly was able to piece the modern English equivalent and it made for a more immersive read !
I loved Lachlan and Mhairi instantly separately and together. The only quarter of a star I'm deducting is because I believe some secrets of Lachlan took him too long to disclose, when he literally could have opened up about them anytime for WEEKS. I understand the headspace he was in that made him think he could never share them, but Mhairi was way too patient and kind for him to hold unto those beliefs for so long in my opinion. But of course once the truth came to the light, the resolution was satisfying and beautiful.
This is my first Ashley Worrell so I'm curious to check out her backlog, as it seems to also be set in the same region? I'd mostly like to se
I loved Lachlan and Mhairi instantly separately and together. The only quarter of a star I'm deducting is because I believe some secrets of Lachlan took him too long to disclose, when he literally could have opened up about them anytime for WEEKS. I understand the headspace he was in that made him think he could never share them, but Mhairi was way too patient and kind for him to hold unto those beliefs for so long in my opinion. But of course once the truth came to the light, the resolution was satisfying and beautiful.
This is my first Ashley Worrell so I'm curious to check out her backlog, as it seems to also be set in the same region? I'd mostly like to se
Review of advance copy received from Author
Why can’t I rate 6 stars?!?!
SWOON SWOON SWOON OMGGGGGGGGG - literally everything I love in a book. Damsel in distress. Marriage of convenience. The YEARNING - oh my gosh I was literally up at 2am screaming KISS HER BRO!!
Lachlan is the dreamiest, masculine highland hero, and Mairi is such a sweet match for him.
This is that kind of book that just absolutely consumes you. The internal arcs and journeys are so deep and well fleshed out. Ashley always incorporates faith in the most beautiful way which I appreciate.
I’m telling you, this one checks every single box. YOU NEED IT. YOU’RE WELCOME.
*I was gifted a complimentary copy of this book by the author and no review was required. This insanely excited thoughts are 100% my own!
SWOON SWOON SWOON OMGGGGGGGGG - literally everything I love in a book. Damsel in distress. Marriage of convenience. The YEARNING - oh my gosh I was literally up at 2am screaming KISS HER BRO!!
Lachlan is the dreamiest, masculine highland hero, and Mairi is such a sweet match for him.
This is that kind of book that just absolutely consumes you. The internal arcs and journeys are so deep and well fleshed out. Ashley always incorporates faith in the most beautiful way which I appreciate.
I’m telling you, this one checks every single box. YOU NEED IT. YOU’RE WELCOME.
*I was gifted a complimentary copy of this book by the author and no review was required. This insanely excited thoughts are 100% my own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fans of Carrie Cotten’s Huntress series will enjoy this book by Ashley Worrell. From the opening scene to the closing chapter I was hooked (I do love me a good medieval, Scottish book!). The author takes us back from her previous series to one of the couples that started it all - and Lachlan and Mhairi’s story was worth the telling. Faced with impossible odds and stuck between two kingdoms this couple faced a marriage that was despised by one king and pushed by the other. Battles (many!) raged on land, on water, and in hearts. Yet, through it all ran a thread of love…Gods love for people, a man and his wife’s live for each other, and both of their love for the people they cared for.
Swearing: None
Spice: Fade-to-black scene between a married couple
Violence: PG-13
Faith Themes: Yes
Swearing: None
Spice: Fade-to-black scene between a married couple
Violence: PG-13
Faith Themes: Yes
October 31, 2026
I love this story. Mhairi is a woman of both grace and tenderness. She has heart with the capacity to love deeply.
Lachlan is a man that has experienced much loss, and that has kept him from seeking the Lord and fully opening himself up.
Their love story is a beautiful thing of surrender and vulnerability. Seeing Lachlan lower his walls and eventually return to the Lord was so wonderful to see. It reminded me that God doesn’t need big, elaborate prayers, but sometimes the one word desperate pleas speak more than a whole paragraph could.
I appreciated that the book was language free and the romance/love was clean. It was hard won, but that’s made it all the more beautiful in the end.
Lachlan is a man that has experienced much loss, and that has kept him from seeking the Lord and fully opening himself up.
Their love story is a beautiful thing of surrender and vulnerability. Seeing Lachlan lower his walls and eventually return to the Lord was so wonderful to see. It reminded me that God doesn’t need big, elaborate prayers, but sometimes the one word desperate pleas speak more than a whole paragraph could.
I appreciated that the book was language free and the romance/love was clean. It was hard won, but that’s made it all the more beautiful in the end.
September 13, 2026
A beautiful story!
The story is beautiful and so obviously well-researched, yet the setting and history never detract only enhance the beauty. The way that God’s love and providence is woven into this book is seamless. If you enjoy Christian historical romance, this is not just a sweet hallmark story but it is one filled with real tension and conflict that portrays the struggle and endurance of true love, both human and divine. I thoroughly enjoy Ashley Worrell’s writing and this book does not disappoint. I highly recommend this and her other novels.
The story is beautiful and so obviously well-researched, yet the setting and history never detract only enhance the beauty. The way that God’s love and providence is woven into this book is seamless. If you enjoy Christian historical romance, this is not just a sweet hallmark story but it is one filled with real tension and conflict that portrays the struggle and endurance of true love, both human and divine. I thoroughly enjoy Ashley Worrell’s writing and this book does not disappoint. I highly recommend this and her other novels.
September 27, 2026
Loved, loved, loved this book!! Ashley has done it again! I was so excited to read Mhairi and Lachlan’s story, I loved reading about Mhairi’s faith and what Veritas meant to her. Also how she subtly led Lachlan back to a relationship with the Lord. I loved every character in the book, as all of the characters in her books, including the minor characters, have been written with such an attention to detail that you feel you know them by the end of the book. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
September 2, 2026
Well, here we are again. There is just something about these books, I can't really pin it but something that makes me want them to never end. Something that brings me so in depth in the story and I find myself attached to the characters, and growing with them as they grow.
This was a wonderful story of love and healing. I personally loved both the FMC and the MMC, I loved the side characters and honestly the whole story. I can't recommend it enough.
This was a wonderful story of love and healing. I personally loved both the FMC and the MMC, I loved the side characters and honestly the whole story. I can't recommend it enough.
October 8, 2026
Another stunning book in the series! I love how Ashley can write a story that transports you into it as if you are living it with the characters. I loved everything about Lachlan and Mhairi's story! And I love that Ashley included Doric into her story. As someone who lives in the area of Scotland that speaks Doric and understands it completely, Ashley did a superb job of adding it in! I can't wait for the next book in the series!
October 1, 2026
How can every book Ashley Worrell writes be my new favorite? As always, impeccable, immersive setting. Characters that are deeply relatable. A plot with unexpected twists. This book is a love story, and it is also a beautiful story of the family God chooses for you, whether biologically related or not.
October 2, 2026
My first in the series, excellent
I'm so excited to find this excellent author. I just finished the Tamara Leigh Engliand series and was desperate for another superior author. My heritage being Scots Irish, I loved the terms and history. The characters are totally engaging. I'm up for the next book!
I'm so excited to find this excellent author. I just finished the Tamara Leigh Engliand series and was desperate for another superior author. My heritage being Scots Irish, I loved the terms and history. The characters are totally engaging. I'm up for the next book!
October 9, 2026
Beautifully engrossing tale
Completely transports the reader to the Hebrides and Scotland. Though the characters endure horrible tragedy their story is so full of love and grace it will make you weep. And I can't remember the last time I laughed so much at the sweet antics. This is one talented author.
Completely transports the reader to the Hebrides and Scotland. Though the characters endure horrible tragedy their story is so full of love and grace it will make you weep. And I can't remember the last time I laughed so much at the sweet antics. This is one talented author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews