Scandal's Splendor

Highland Heather Romancing a Scot #4

by Collette Cameron

A determined Scottish lady
Seonaid Ferguson, a lady of Craiglocky Keep, is through with London’s Marriage Mart. After learning she has the second sight, the haut ton attempts to exploit her abilities. Even though it means she condemns herself to spinsterhood, Seonaid sets a desperate course to rid herself of her gift turned curse. As she rushes home from England, a snowstorm strands her in a crowded inn with the last man she ever wished to see again. A handsome French baron who once thought her a courtesan. And just her misfortune, only he stands between her and certain harm.

An honorable French nobleman
Jacques, Monsieur le baron de Devaux-Rousset, ventures to Scotland to oversee his new investment; a silver mine near Craiglocky. Only a handsome profit will save his family's destitute estate in France. But when the mine is beset with one problem after another, Jacques must instead search for an heiress to wed. He certainly should not be falling in love with the lovely, spirited sister of Laird Ewan MacTavish, a lass whose dowry is insufficient to restore his ancestral home. Nor should he consider, even for a moment, her risqué, but deliciously tempting scheme to rid her of the second sight.


A danger most dire
Matters are torn from their hands when a dangerous adversary vows to expose Seonaid as a witch, just as Jacques's problems at the mine escalate into deadly violence. Is it by chance, or a dark design, that both of them are beset at once? Dare Jacques and Seonaid throw caution aside and forge a future together?

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Regency, Historical Fiction, Amazon, Regency Romance

223 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 30, 2016

About the author

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USA Today Bestselling author Collette Cameron® is renowned for her captivating, humorous, and heartwarming Scottish and Regency historical romance novels. With over 65 published titles, over 1.6 million books sold around the world, and multiple writing awards to her credit, Collette is a well-known author in the world of historical romance.

Readers love her witty and relatable characters including daring rogues, dashing scoundrels, and the strong and spirited heroines who capture their hearts. From the rugged highlands to the refined drawing rooms of Regency England, Collette’s novels will transport you to another time and place, where love and adventure are just a page away.

Collette’s Sweet-to-Spicy Timeless Romances® are the perfect escape for readers looking for romantic escape, poignant inspiration, engaging humor, and entertaining stories.

Based in the Pacific Northwest, Collette is surrounded by the lush greenery and rainy skies that inspire her writing. She dreams of one day splitting her time between the Pacific Northwest and Scotland. In the meantime, she indulges in her love of all things cobalt blue, dachshunds, chocolate, and of course, crafting her next historical romance.





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Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Engagingly written, but there was too much push and pull from the H for my liking. The h was a doormat and I couldn't find it in myself to care for either MC. The H was too proud to see the writing on the wall and the h too selfish for wanting her second sight to be gone. Throw in some random drama and suspense and voila. The writing, the absence of ow/om drama, and the lack of sex scenes in were the redeeming qualities of this book.

[Joan]

Some of the names were jarringly 'wrong' for me. 'Craiglocky' when my 'mind' wanted to read 'Craiglochy' . the Oakberry mines which sounded like something from a children's book, but my real problem with this novel was that it had a 'medieval' feel to it, to the extent that I had to check exactly when it was set.

Seonaid's obsession with sick animals was a little bit overdone and I couldn't get my head around the fact that the journey from London to the Scottish highlands was reckoned to take less than a week. Over 500 miles? And the majority of the roads further north would have been pretty poor.

Not rating at this time.

[Regan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seonaid has the gift of the second sight. A gift she no longer wants. Baron Devaux is a French nobleman who is desperate for money. A neighbor killed his relatives in order to get their château, but he has no proof. He gambles and invests the last of his money in a silver mine in Scotland. After kissing her in Paris, he can’t forget Seonaid. In London, she has another unwanted vision, turning her into a curiosity for the ton. She flees for home, but it puts her in the path of a vicar who takes an immediate dislike to her and Devaux. Of course, he doesn’t seem to like anyone.
Although they both know that he must marry a heiress to save his home, they can’t fight their attraction. But can he protect her when she’s accused of being a witch?
I enjoyed this book and I would recommend it to everyone.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Collette Cameron's Scandal's Splendor, book four in the Highland Heather Romancing a Scot series mixes danger and romance for one tremendously fulfilling read!

Seonaid Ferguson has resigned herself to the life of a spinster when the weight of her second sight starts to create cracks in the inner well of strength she draws from. Escaping to her home in the Highlands, after fending off those that would exploit her "gift" in London, the last person Seonaid expects to run into on her journey home is Jacques, Monsieur le baron de Devaux-Rousset. All but destitute Jacques has invested his meager remaining resources in a last ditch effort to save his family home and legacy. When he contradicts the man Seonaid thinks he is by his ongoing noble actions the feelings of love that start to blossom between them are in direct conflict with the plans they have each mapped out for their futures.

Ms. Cameron designs her story with intriguing twist that carry it through to its satisfying conclusion at a rapid pace. Interesting period details and an abundance of well timed humor contributed additional depth to an already appealing work. With characters that speak to the plot as well as the audience this author's ability to express with her eloquent prose a full flavored read is truly a pleasure.

Scandal's Splendor reflects the complicated workings of love and relationships in fabulous words and sentiment that stand out and grab you as only Collette Cameron can!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seonaid Ferguson is on her way back to the Scottish highlands and her beloved family. She has the so called gift of second sight, but after visions her hit her in public she has been treated like a cheap gypsy fortune teller. She would like nothing more than to lose this gift forever. To know when bad things are going to happen but be unable to stop them is a torment.
Jacques, Monsieur le Baron de Devaux- Rousset is hoping to restore his family home in France with the silver from a mine in Scotland. A man he worked with during the war lives nearby and has offered to help.
The journey through a highland winter storm brings many dangers, not all of them from the weather. Sometimes the fellow passengers are decidedly unpleasant.
Our heroine is in more danger than she knows when her abilities are seen by some to be the devils work.
Our hero had more than one reason to travel to the highlands. The beautiful woman he met in Paris is in his mind much more than he will admit, even to himself.
A wonderful journey to discover just what is really important in life. Lots of danger, emotion and excitement. Our author draws you right into the lives of her characters right from the first page to the last.
This is part of a series where our protagonists met in a previous story, but it is still easily read as a stand alone.
I loved it.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seonaid Ferguson is on her way back home to the Scottish Highlands, unfortunately the snowy weather forces her to stop at Hare’s Foot Inn. The trip was arduous mostly because of a travelling companion, Reverend Fletcher, who is selfish, uncouth and judgemental. At the Inn, Seonaid is in for a shock when she hears a voice she’d never thought she’d hear again, that of Jacques, Monsieur le baron Devaux-Rousset. They had met in Paris, where Jacques had inadvertently insulted Seonaid, and she never forgave him, however handsome and dashing he was.

Collette Cameron presents us with a magnificent literary confection, filled with splendid characters, as well as a fabulous story with some shocking plot twists. Ms. Cameron is one of the finest writers around, her prose is flawless, elegant and refined, and she does know her way around a colourful metaphor. There is also some exceptionally funny dialogue, and each character is given its own distinctive voice and accent. Everything about this romance felt so natural and normal, and the ending is absolutely wonderful. Jacques and Seonaid are exceptionally engaging characters, and their story is a joy to read.


I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scandal's Splendor by Collette Cameron is an interesting addition to her "Highland Heather: Romancing a Scot", Book 4, but can easily be read as a stand alone.
Steady paced with twists and turns, a few surprises, a bit of humor, some suspense and a wonderful cast of characters.
I enjoyed the interaction between the H/H. A brillantly written story that will captivate and entice readers from the first chapter to the last page.
Once again, Ms. Cameron has written a refreshing story that readers are sure to enjoy. Ms. Cameron is one of my favorite authors, she never fails to delight and amaze me with her stories, one that takes the reader on another journey into romance and love. A must read!


Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

[Nola Arganbright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delicious

This is my favorite book of this series. The characters are so relatable and personable. The flow is good and a strong development lends to a fast read.

[CYNTHIA CHARLES · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing how the characters come to life. The trials of being different are caught, examined, explained and I think an amazing job of dealing with it. Truly enjoyed.

[Shawna Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

*********3.75 Star Review**************

I have to say that Scandal's Splendor surprised me in a good way. I was not expecting Seonaid and Jaques' story to have the emotional impact that it did. This is one story that will hit you in the feels and have you cheering for the main character to win against the odds.

Seonaid is a surprisingly lonely girl despite being surrounded by a loving family. She carries a heavy burden and feels no one can understand or help her. Seonaid has the gift of a second sight and fears this gift will label her a freak. Her fears come true, after a disastrous trip to London for season, where the Ton only want to use her gift for entertainment. Her dream of finding a true love are dashed and she returns home ready to resign her self to loveless marriage or a lonely existence.

Jacques is a man who has lost it all. He has lost his love ones to tragedies and is now penniless. The only thing he owns is his family crumbling estate and the ghost of his past that haunt him there. Jacques feels tremendous guilt over his family and is willing to gamble all to save the family home that no longer brings him joy.

Jacques and Seonaid find a kindred spirit in each other, finally a person who understands their pain and accepts them for who they are. However, the road to love is never smooth. Their are many roadblocks on their to way to happiness including their own insecurities and stubbornness.

[Dee Deacon Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seonoid Ferguson was done with London’s elite. Ever since it came to light that she had the second sight she was sought after and treated as an oddity. Home is the only place she wants to be and losing the second sight her only goal.

Jacques, Monsieur le baron Devaux-Rousset, French family estate needs money. With two options available – a silver mine investment in Scotland or marrying a rich heiress - he is hoping the first pays off.

From the moment of their disastrous first meeting, whenever they are together fireworks are sure to happen. Seonoid’s decision to rid herself of the second sight involves the one man she can’t stand. Jacques’ options become further limited to marrying an heiress, not the spitfire who has woven a spell around him.

When outside forces intervene will these two be able to work together or will things explode out of their control.

The fourth installment in Collette Cameron’s Highland Heather Romancing a Scot series showcases Ms. Cameron’s ability to draw the reader in and hold them there until “The End”.

Although this is the fourth in the series in can be read as a stand-alone.

[Jaci]

This is my first Collette Cameron Book!! Loved that the hero was a Frenchman!!! Seonaid and Jacques were perfect, an unlikely couple that over came all kinds of obstacles that will make you laugh and cry.

Seonaid has a gift of seeing events that have not yet happened, but they are never specific enough or come at the wrong time. Jacques is a broke nobleman who owns nothing but a wreck of a castle that is haunted. He pursues Seonaid because he is fascinated by her and hopes that together they can find happiness. They are both hiding from pain, fear and regrets.

I do not do spoilers in my reviews. Take my word that this is a splendid novel with lots of twists and surprises. Collette is a master at awakening the desires and dangers that will leave you breathless and wanting more. Her prose is wonderful, witty and elegantly refined. Her characters are beautifully perfect but have flaws that define them and make this story a joyful experience for the reader. I just loved the adventure she took me on and I am sure that you will love it to.

[Jimnlori · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Collette Cameron's historical romances! This story is part of her Highland Heather Romancing A Scot Series! I loved Jacques and Seonaid's story!
Seonaid's plan was to get home as fast as she could where she was protected by people who loved her and have known her since she was a child, but getting caught in a winter storm slows progress considerably.
Jacques has been attracted to Seonaid since the first time they met, but he has nothing to offer her and for some reason she seemed to not appreciate his attention, but when they find themselves stranded by a storm and her without male protection he steps in to make sure that she gets to her home and family safely.
They soon find that they have developed a friendship and a mutual attraction, but Jacques' financial circumstances haven't changed so he chooses to walk away.

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Splendid ending

Rated 41/2 stars

Excellent end of this series of books. The youngest sister of laird Liam McTavish, Seonaid is tired of her gift of site. She feels like she's seen as a circus act by the ton. So in her exasperation she leaves London, the ton and the season to head home to Scotland. In her haste she ends up in a snow storm and stranded at an inn with some seedy characters. Unfortunately she also runs into Monsieur Baron Jacques Le Baron Deveau-Rousette who she met in France and they did not get along. He does come to her rescue to her chagrin and the story progresses from there with lots of miss understanding, angst and of course the evil villain. I didn't give this story the 5 stars only because I felt the ending was a little to fast with settling every thing too neatly in a bow. I would of liked it more evolved. Having said that I did thoroughly enjoyed this book and the whole series. Definitely recommend this book and the whole series.

[Dottie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seonaid Ferguson is on her way back home to the beautiful Scottish Highlands and her loving family. After a disastrous event in England occurs because of her gift of second sight, Seonaid is determined to rid herself of the so called gift. She's tired of being treated as a gypsy fortune teller, accused of witchcraft and nearly having exorcisms performed on her. Thus is the life she never asked for... and it is a lonely one.
She must marry or become a man's mistress to achieve her goal.

Jacques, Monsieur le Baron de Devaux-Rousset is seeking a way to restore his home in France to its former glory with a mining venture.
Devaux and Seonaid's paths have crossed once before in Paris. There was instant attraction and sparks! They're paths cross once again because of inclement weather and the Hare's Foot Inn. The reunion is equally satisfying!
A very sweet and tasteful romance!

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of impoverished French nobleman (and ex war time spy) Jacques and French/Scots noblewoman (plagued by Second Sight) Seonaid. This is book 4 in a series about a Scots family, not having read any of the others, I did find the relationships between characters a trifle testing. It was not until I was well into the book that I realised that Ewan (the Laird) was a half-brother, that they shared the same mother but different fathers. However, other than that it is possible to read this as a standalone. I don't want to give away any of the plot, so I will just say it was an agreeable read with a HEA.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

[Jonel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel was hilariously perfect. Cameron's wildly romantic tale had me hooked from cover to cover. The highs, the lows, the suspense, the danger, they all come to life brilliantly through this authors upbeat and lively narrative. The plot was intricately crafted, drawing me deeply into this world.

The cast of characters here were unforgettable as well. I loved the intimate ways that we got to know the main characters. The misunderstandings between them lead to some fantastically comical moments, while at the same time, the chemistry between them was palpable. Beyond that, however, they were fantastic individuals that I couldn't help but fall in love with and root for.

Once again Cameron has created an unforgettable romance that easily transport readers to Scotland to fall in love with the land and the people.

[Kimberly Westrope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Collette Cameron does not disappoint. The latest in her Scottish Highland series, Scandal's Splendor is a wonderful story full of adventure, intrigue, and of course, a healthy dose of romance. Having read others in the series, all the characters felt like old familiar friends I had the pleasure of visiting once again.

Though part of a series, this is a stand alone story. I love the interaction between the characters, particularly the family members. I really related to the heroine, who keeps so much inside so much of the time. I was happy to see her grow so much throughout the story, especially in the way she saw herself and her gift.

I highly recommend this and all the others in the series.

[Vicki Highley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A visit to the Scottish Highlands in 1818. Seonida Ferguson is returning home and encounters Jacques, Monsieur le baron de Devaux-Rousett at an inn on her way home from London. They had not parted well and due to incidents at the inn and on the way to her family's home they are thrown together. Seonida has second sight and would like to get rid of it and has a plan. I really enjoyed the interactions between the two as the discover their feelings towards each other.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a review copy of this book.

I've been waiting for Seonaid's story since she'd appeared in earlier books and I was not disappointed. I loved Seonaid and Jacques. Seonaid is an unusual character because she has the gift of second sight. The hero's and herone's inner thoughts are revealed throughout the story and by the end I felt like I knew them well. The romance developed slowly and didn't feel rushed.

The story is well written and there were no slow moments. Collette Cameron writes stories that are interesting and engaging.

[Patricia Schuette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is worth waiting for. I received this book free from Collette in exchange for an honest review. It's a continuation of her Highland Heather Romancing a Scot series. A story about the youngest sister (Seonaid) of Ewan McTavish the Laird of Craiglocky keep. On the way returning home from an unsuccessful season she and her companions are stranded by a snow storm at a full inn. Also stranded is a man she met in the past who she was trying to forget and he saves her from a vicar who is creepy. I so enjoyed this story and highly recommend it.

[Aisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about Jacques and Seonaid and their journey through love. I like that it is an actually story that plays out with clues included.so Seonaid is gifted she had vision wants them gone. Jacques knows Seonaid is gifted figures out she is miserable with the gift after a jab at her that went wrong. The pair love each other but with no help for Seonaid brother keep their distance. After many mishaps and even a brush with death they finally get a chance at happiness.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the author. This is romantic, captivating, entertaining and enjoyable. The characters are very engaging and the storyline is interesting. Jacques is chivalrous, sweet and romantic. You have to feel for him, trying to do what he thinks is right instead of following his heart. Seonaid is a special person who deserves her hearts desire. The story is full of love and sadness. It's brilliant and engrossing, a must add to your TBR list.

[Seanna Yeager · Rating 4 out of 5]

A surprising romance, filled with passion, twists and turns that bring the heroine and hero together, and a bit of humor to lighten things up. I really enjoyed how Cameron bought these two together, despite the many obstacles in their path to a happily ever after. Also, a great nemesis for the couple in that horrible reverend.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story. Really liked the characters. I like stories that have a bit of a mystery, and this one delivered.

[Frances Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inconvenient love!

Seonaid Ferguson, stepsister to Laird McTavish, Viscount Sethwick, has the second sight. She cannot control her visions so it isn't long before the haute ton realise and start bombarding her with requests for Frances and readings! They don't seem to understand that her talent doesn't work that way. Feeling besieged, she decides to return home Scotland without waiting for an escourt and her family carriage.
It only takes a blizzard snowing them in for three days in an Inn for her to realise her mistake. While there she is confronted by a cleric, a most unseemly man who accuses her of many sins including witchcraft. When he says that he is the temporary cleric for Craiglocky she is appalled! There are also four men who everyone thinks are bandits and a Frenchman who it has been her misfortune to meet before.
Jacques, Monsieur lebaron de Devaux-Rousset, has indeed met Seonaid before but his memories are more pleasant than hers. This trip to Scotland is Jacques' last attempt to recoup his fortunes by investing in a silver mine. He knows that, unless his gamble pays off, he cannot court Seonaid so he is constantly giving her different signals!
Once the snow stops it is still a couple of days before they are able to leave but their departure is complicated by the bandits stealing a lot of the horses from the stable in the night.
From then on the story is non stop with bandits, denied feelings and the evil, lecherous cleric!
I sometimes felt like shaking Jacques for being a typical male of the period. I certainly felt caught up in the lives of the people of Craiglocky and give this five stars.

[Virginia Tican · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aside from the romance, this book is also hilarious with a touch of the sinister and paranormal in it. Another good one from Ms. Cameron. One thing though, I find it a bit far fetched the ruse that Jacques covetous neighbor perpetrated when Carnot's henchmen dressed as Englishmen slaughtered all his family at their garden estate. What business would Englishmen (unless they are spies) be doing at a baron's estate in France when only Napoleon's minions can travel the length and breadth of the country with the correct papers? The ruse would only work if there were also English troops nearby but given that who were killed were peers and not French soldiers, so English soldiers would not still kill French aristocrats but members of the French 'hoi polloi' would. Why do you think there were so many 'emigres' that found sanctuary and were welcomed in England? It might work if Carnot killed them "for harboring an English spy" then planted evidence to back his claim. He can then be a hero for the Republic and then can have Jacques estate as a reward?

[Joann Maggio · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scandal’s Splendor ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️by Collette Cameron

As a loyal reader of Ms Cameron, I have waited for Seonaid Ferguson’s story and have not been disappointed. Seanad has always been a special person, having the second sight being one of her gifts but her heart open to care and love for both people and animals as a healer.

In a hope of marriage, Seonaid goes to London only to realize people would exploit her gift as a seer. In her haste, Seonaid leaves to return back to her home resigned to her life as a spinster. It is on this return trip Seonaid runs into Jacques an impoverished French baron. Her past meeting with him was quite disturbing to her and she does not relish his company.

Ms Cameron has mixed an intriguing potion filled with affection, mystery and danger. I enjoyed this story immensely and would highly recommend it.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unrequited Love

Seonard McTavishes left London in a rush home to Scotland and ended up in a snowstorm.
Seonard ends up at an inn with her maid, chaperone and the temporary Vicar. The inn only had one room left and the Vicar took it, leaving the ladies to sleep on the floor of the inn.
Jacques Monsieur left baron Decker Devaux-Rouseet offers his room. Seonard met him in London and even kissed him.
While at the inn Seonard had a second sight, she seen her father dealing with a fire.
They are set upon while on the road, her brother and family show up in time. At the castle while walking in the village she comes across the Vicar and has a vision he attacked a girl.
While walking home she is attacked by the Vicar, he his stopped by Douglas and Jacques also comes upon it.
To watch the love between them and neither can admit it to each other.

[L J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Longing for adventure...

This is the fourth in a terrific series, and the story of Seonaid and Jacques. This man drives Seonaid mad, and not in a happy way, at the start of the story. Jacques is too handsome, charming, smooth, too everything for Seonaid! Seonaid is unique in that she has the 'gift' of second sight and sometimes see events before they occur, which in her day was not something one bandied about for fear of being branded a witch. The story involves a conflict with evil, a past yet resolved, intrigue, and danger for the characters in the series.
I loved this book and couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book and series to historical romance readers who enjoy a story with some action and adventure with their longing!