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My Highland Cowboy
Duncan McLeish owns a ranch. Unlike most ranches, this one is in the Scottish Highlands. Having inherited a failing farm from his grandfather, he turns it into a successful business. He has friends, he loves his home, but he’s lonely, and not even infrequent trips to Glasgow and Edinburgh slake that thirst to find someone. Then Drew Sinclair walks into his life.
Drew Sinclair is tantalizingly close to getting his clothes brand noticed in the industry. He and his business partner, Joy, design individual dresses, while on the side, Drew designs and produces a line of men’s lingerie. He visits Scotland to design dresses for his sister, Jenna, who is marrying Duncan’s best friend at Christmas.
Duncan and Drew have nothing except their Highland upbringing in common, but they say opposites attract, and the attraction is immediate. Is this simply a summer fling, or can two men who live such opposite lives, miles away from each other, find a way to love?
Reader This book contains references to homophobia and references to death of a character’s parents.
Drew Sinclair is tantalizingly close to getting his clothes brand noticed in the industry. He and his business partner, Joy, design individual dresses, while on the side, Drew designs and produces a line of men’s lingerie. He visits Scotland to design dresses for his sister, Jenna, who is marrying Duncan’s best friend at Christmas.
Duncan and Drew have nothing except their Highland upbringing in common, but they say opposites attract, and the attraction is immediate. Is this simply a summer fling, or can two men who live such opposite lives, miles away from each other, find a way to love?
Reader This book contains references to homophobia and references to death of a character’s parents.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2017
10 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Milne
29 books37 followersOriginally from South Wales, Alexa has lived for over thirty years in the North West of England. Now retired, after a long career in teaching, she devotes her time to her obsessions.
Alexa began writing when her favourite character was killed in her favourite show. After producing a lot of fanfiction she ventured into original writing.
She is currently owned by a mad cat and spends her time writing about the men in her head, watching her favourite television programmes and usually crying over her favourite football team.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 7, 2018
3.5 Stars
I’ll admit that the title alone sold me on this one. I have a proclivity for romance stories featuring cowboy MCs and I certainly have a soft spot for all things Scottish. I was in my element here, no doubt, and I’m so glad I took a random chance on an unknown author.
This story sees cowboy Duncan and fashion designer Drew, two total opposites, meeting and falling for one another when Drew comes to stay at Duncan’s ranch in the Highlands while he helps his sister prepare for her wedding to Duncan’s BFF.
Duncan leads a quiet, solitary life, having lost his family years prior. He is surrounded by friends and work colleagues on the ranch that love him dearly and treat him like family, but he secretly longs for a partner in all things, although he doesn’t imagine he’ll ever find one being so isolated up in the Highlands. He’s always been attracted to women and men both, but he’s only ever engaged in one off encounters on his brief trips to the city, never having formed any romantic connection in his 40 years. But when Drew shows up at the ranch, bursting into Duncan’s life full of energy, temptations and possibilities, Duncan’s carefully built walls begin to crumble and he can’t help but start wishing for a future he never imagined he could have.
Drew is also Scottish born but he left for college years ago and hasn’t looked back, choosing to blaze his own trail by conquering the fashion world as was always his professional dream. He’s content with his life in London, even if he wishes for someone to share it with, and he certainly never imagined that he’d find what he was looking for all along back home in the Highlands.
When Drew arrives at Duncan’s ranch, sparks immediately begin to fly, but both men figure nothing more than a quick holiday fling is feasible considering their fundamental differences and how far apart they live their lives. Though, as these things tend to go, Drew and Duncan quickly realise that their feelings run deeper than those of a brief meaningless fling, and the rest of the story follows them as they struggle with the distance between them and whether pursuing a real relationship is worth the big compromises that would need to be made to truly be together.
This opposites-attract romance wasn’t particularly eventful, but I enjoyed the simplicity of Drew and Duncan’s unfolding love story nonetheless. There is no OTT drama here, just two guys from varying walks for life, falling for one another and trying to build a life together despite their differences. Drew and Duncan’s romance is full of sweetness and first times, and a happy ending full of compromise, commitment and abounding love.
I liked the story and the characters very much, but if I’m being honest, I spent the entirety of the book trying to figure out what it was about the narrative style that wasn’t working for me. I still can’t put my finger on what it was that irked me so much? Perhaps it was a little too tell and a little less show, and I certainly felt the dialogue was a tad off at times, seeming a bit forced and jilted throughout. Having said that, I still gobbled this story up fairly quickly, and although the writing itself didn’t work wonders for me personally, I still enjoyed the story enough to consider reading more from this author in the future.
I’ll admit that the title alone sold me on this one. I have a proclivity for romance stories featuring cowboy MCs and I certainly have a soft spot for all things Scottish. I was in my element here, no doubt, and I’m so glad I took a random chance on an unknown author.
This story sees cowboy Duncan and fashion designer Drew, two total opposites, meeting and falling for one another when Drew comes to stay at Duncan’s ranch in the Highlands while he helps his sister prepare for her wedding to Duncan’s BFF.
Duncan leads a quiet, solitary life, having lost his family years prior. He is surrounded by friends and work colleagues on the ranch that love him dearly and treat him like family, but he secretly longs for a partner in all things, although he doesn’t imagine he’ll ever find one being so isolated up in the Highlands. He’s always been attracted to women and men both, but he’s only ever engaged in one off encounters on his brief trips to the city, never having formed any romantic connection in his 40 years. But when Drew shows up at the ranch, bursting into Duncan’s life full of energy, temptations and possibilities, Duncan’s carefully built walls begin to crumble and he can’t help but start wishing for a future he never imagined he could have.
Drew is also Scottish born but he left for college years ago and hasn’t looked back, choosing to blaze his own trail by conquering the fashion world as was always his professional dream. He’s content with his life in London, even if he wishes for someone to share it with, and he certainly never imagined that he’d find what he was looking for all along back home in the Highlands.
When Drew arrives at Duncan’s ranch, sparks immediately begin to fly, but both men figure nothing more than a quick holiday fling is feasible considering their fundamental differences and how far apart they live their lives. Though, as these things tend to go, Drew and Duncan quickly realise that their feelings run deeper than those of a brief meaningless fling, and the rest of the story follows them as they struggle with the distance between them and whether pursuing a real relationship is worth the big compromises that would need to be made to truly be together.
This opposites-attract romance wasn’t particularly eventful, but I enjoyed the simplicity of Drew and Duncan’s unfolding love story nonetheless. There is no OTT drama here, just two guys from varying walks for life, falling for one another and trying to build a life together despite their differences. Drew and Duncan’s romance is full of sweetness and first times, and a happy ending full of compromise, commitment and abounding love.
I liked the story and the characters very much, but if I’m being honest, I spent the entirety of the book trying to figure out what it was about the narrative style that wasn’t working for me. I still can’t put my finger on what it was that irked me so much? Perhaps it was a little too tell and a little less show, and I certainly felt the dialogue was a tad off at times, seeming a bit forced and jilted throughout. Having said that, I still gobbled this story up fairly quickly, and although the writing itself didn’t work wonders for me personally, I still enjoyed the story enough to consider reading more from this author in the future.
July 1, 2024
DNF @ 35%
I was looking forward to this book so much! It's a cowboy romance but set in the Scottish Highlands, which was a great idea. Duncan had inherited his grandfather's ranch and saved the struggling ranch by turning it into a typical American dude ranch that happens to be set in the Highlands. So it combined two of my favorite things: rural Scottish Highland life plus cowboy life. Drew is a flamboyant gay guy who makes his living designing women's clothes and men's underwear and he's a walking, talking stereotype of what a Flamboyant Gay man would be but he's also comfortable in the ranch environment, having grown up on a Scottish Highlands country estate. It was also my favorite opposites attract scenario with Duncan being the shy, gentle giant and Drew being the loud, confident one.
Unfortunately, the execution left me bored and annoyed and it's mostly due to the amateur writing style and amateur plotting. I'll list my grievances in a list but in no particular order.
+ Most of the dialog is unnatural, stiff and a lot of contractions were missing, which didn't fit how any of these characters would talk.
+ Duncan and Drew were supposed to be more than walking stereotypes and the author tried to pull this off by giving Drew strong horsemanship skills and a high comfort level with outdoorsy things and by Duncan apparently liking musicals. Unfortunately, the author focused way more on showing Drew's diverse interests instead of balancing the portrayals and that had the unfortunate result of having Drew come across like a Gary Stu (perfect in every way) while Duncan remained a walking, talking cowboy stereotype.
+ Duncan was supposed to be 40 so more than 10 years older than Drew, but the way Duncan was written made him come across as a typical 20-something guy just like Drew. The age gap was supposed to matter but it didn't due to poor writing.
+ The author seems to think it's their job to lecture readers about all sorts of gay related topics because the preaching was relentless. Somebody would judge Drew due to his flamboyant nature by making rude comments/assumptions about women and femme gays and then the author would always have Drew wag his finger in the person's face and lecture them about not being sexist/homophobic/judgmental etc. It wasn't just repetitive and thus boring but it was also condescending. It also didn't make sense most of the time. Most of the side characters who were judging Drew either already knew him so it made no sense for them to say those things or they weren't the kind of people who would make those comments in this day and age. But the author felt the need to lecture readers and thus, forced multiple of these conversations in the bit I read.
+ The plot moved at a glacial pace with many scenes not adding to the plot. Specifically, the frequent scenes involving the MCs interacting with side characters were boring and pointless. The reason Drew is staying at Duncan's ranch for a few days is because Drew's sister is marrying Duncan's BFF. Unfortunately, the author decided that this MM romance needed the presence of the het couple and constant reminders of their upcoming wedding, which meant we had to suffer through boring scenes like Drew working with the women on their dresses and a long, boring dinner with the entire wedding party. This isn't an MF romance so I didn't care about the MF couple and I hated spending so much time with them. The author tried to make those scenes relevant to the story by sometimes having the conversation discuss Drew or Duncan but these little bits of conversation weren't enough to make up for the long, pointless scene that they were stuffed into and it also lead to the following problem:
+ The MCs histories are discussed way too frequently and the same things are brought up over and over again. Stories about Duncan being bullied at boarding school and how his BFF helped him are brought up multiple times. We get tons of stories about Drew and his sister's childhood shenanigans, as well as constant reminders that Drew grew up on a country estate and thus, he knows country things. It felt like the author didn't have an outline or a solid idea of what to fill the pages with, which is why we got these repetitive conversations and why the MF couple took up so much space.
+ Due to the combination of bad dialog, zero chemistry between the MCs, boring plot and preaching tone, it's probably not a surprise that the smut scenes weren't well written and weren't enjoyable. You can tell that the author really tried but all the other factors heavily impacted my ability to enjoy the smut scenes, which was yet another disappointment.
Overall, this wasn't my thing and it's clear that this author's work isn't for me. This story contained SO MANY things that I love so the fact that I DNF'd it early and I disliked it so strongly tells me it's not the story but the author's writing ability and storytelling that weren't working for me.
I was looking forward to this book so much! It's a cowboy romance but set in the Scottish Highlands, which was a great idea. Duncan had inherited his grandfather's ranch and saved the struggling ranch by turning it into a typical American dude ranch that happens to be set in the Highlands. So it combined two of my favorite things: rural Scottish Highland life plus cowboy life. Drew is a flamboyant gay guy who makes his living designing women's clothes and men's underwear and he's a walking, talking stereotype of what a Flamboyant Gay man would be but he's also comfortable in the ranch environment, having grown up on a Scottish Highlands country estate. It was also my favorite opposites attract scenario with Duncan being the shy, gentle giant and Drew being the loud, confident one.
Unfortunately, the execution left me bored and annoyed and it's mostly due to the amateur writing style and amateur plotting. I'll list my grievances in a list but in no particular order.
+ Most of the dialog is unnatural, stiff and a lot of contractions were missing, which didn't fit how any of these characters would talk.
+ Duncan and Drew were supposed to be more than walking stereotypes and the author tried to pull this off by giving Drew strong horsemanship skills and a high comfort level with outdoorsy things and by Duncan apparently liking musicals. Unfortunately, the author focused way more on showing Drew's diverse interests instead of balancing the portrayals and that had the unfortunate result of having Drew come across like a Gary Stu (perfect in every way) while Duncan remained a walking, talking cowboy stereotype.
+ Duncan was supposed to be 40 so more than 10 years older than Drew, but the way Duncan was written made him come across as a typical 20-something guy just like Drew. The age gap was supposed to matter but it didn't due to poor writing.
+ The author seems to think it's their job to lecture readers about all sorts of gay related topics because the preaching was relentless. Somebody would judge Drew due to his flamboyant nature by making rude comments/assumptions about women and femme gays and then the author would always have Drew wag his finger in the person's face and lecture them about not being sexist/homophobic/judgmental etc. It wasn't just repetitive and thus boring but it was also condescending. It also didn't make sense most of the time. Most of the side characters who were judging Drew either already knew him so it made no sense for them to say those things or they weren't the kind of people who would make those comments in this day and age. But the author felt the need to lecture readers and thus, forced multiple of these conversations in the bit I read.
+ The plot moved at a glacial pace with many scenes not adding to the plot. Specifically, the frequent scenes involving the MCs interacting with side characters were boring and pointless. The reason Drew is staying at Duncan's ranch for a few days is because Drew's sister is marrying Duncan's BFF. Unfortunately, the author decided that this MM romance needed the presence of the het couple and constant reminders of their upcoming wedding, which meant we had to suffer through boring scenes like Drew working with the women on their dresses and a long, boring dinner with the entire wedding party. This isn't an MF romance so I didn't care about the MF couple and I hated spending so much time with them. The author tried to make those scenes relevant to the story by sometimes having the conversation discuss Drew or Duncan but these little bits of conversation weren't enough to make up for the long, pointless scene that they were stuffed into and it also lead to the following problem:
+ The MCs histories are discussed way too frequently and the same things are brought up over and over again. Stories about Duncan being bullied at boarding school and how his BFF helped him are brought up multiple times. We get tons of stories about Drew and his sister's childhood shenanigans, as well as constant reminders that Drew grew up on a country estate and thus, he knows country things. It felt like the author didn't have an outline or a solid idea of what to fill the pages with, which is why we got these repetitive conversations and why the MF couple took up so much space.
+ Due to the combination of bad dialog, zero chemistry between the MCs, boring plot and preaching tone, it's probably not a surprise that the smut scenes weren't well written and weren't enjoyable. You can tell that the author really tried but all the other factors heavily impacted my ability to enjoy the smut scenes, which was yet another disappointment.
Overall, this wasn't my thing and it's clear that this author's work isn't for me. This story contained SO MANY things that I love so the fact that I DNF'd it early and I disliked it so strongly tells me it's not the story but the author's writing ability and storytelling that weren't working for me.
May 1, 2018
4.5 stars
“What you do to me, Duncan McLeish.”
*happy sigh* This is a NTMA but from beginning to end, there's just so much here I loved...just check my updates.
This book came out swinging. Drew is a fiery and unapologetically flamboyant character. He's a fashion designer of women's clothing and a line of men's lingerie but he can also hold his own on a farm. He's sexy and brash and I wanted him in my life.
Duncan is the total opposite to Drew in every way, but when these two men come together it's like romantic dynamite.
What I liked about this was that the attraction was so undeniable. Even in the beginning when they were butting heads they sort things out themselves without walking away, even though that would be so much easier. They only really know each other a few days at first but can both sense that what they have could be something real. But living so far apart they just have to figure out what to do about it.
Their story spans approximately 6 months and both men surprised me at every turn. I loved how the author kept the story fresh and interesting, especially when the men were apart.
And where the first half of this is mostly all sweetness and the excitement of meeting someone special, the second half was the reality of trying to make it work. And asking yourself can it? And should it?
This book also has a strong feeling of family. Both men are surrounded by people who love them. They all see what's happening between Drew and Duncan and are a cross between silently supportive, and mildly intrusive, but it was always done with kindness and good intentions.
I also loved how sexy this book was. I mean Cowboys, kilts and manties? Yes, please. But what I appreciated was that it never felt like a sexual gimmick, because lingerie was an intrinsic part of Drew's character. And Duncan was a dark horse. An exceptionally polite and sexually modest cowboy who's mouth turns dirty af when you get him in the bedroom. He had so many layers underneath his gruff exterior.
This book wasn't perfect. There's a few errors and one confusing paragraph where I think I mistook who was talking and But it wasn't enough to take away my enjoyment.
All in all this book just worked for me. I would love to keep reading about these characters. There's a larger than life character introduced at the end of the book, so who knows, maybe they'll get a book and we'll see Drew and Duncan again. Either way, this is going on my reread shelf.
“What you do to me, Duncan McLeish.”
*happy sigh* This is a NTMA but from beginning to end, there's just so much here I loved...just check my updates.
This book came out swinging. Drew is a fiery and unapologetically flamboyant character. He's a fashion designer of women's clothing and a line of men's lingerie but he can also hold his own on a farm. He's sexy and brash and I wanted him in my life.
Duncan is the total opposite to Drew in every way, but when these two men come together it's like romantic dynamite.
What I liked about this was that the attraction was so undeniable. Even in the beginning when they were butting heads they sort things out themselves without walking away, even though that would be so much easier. They only really know each other a few days at first but can both sense that what they have could be something real. But living so far apart they just have to figure out what to do about it.
Their story spans approximately 6 months and both men surprised me at every turn. I loved how the author kept the story fresh and interesting, especially when the men were apart.
And where the first half of this is mostly all sweetness and the excitement of meeting someone special, the second half was the reality of trying to make it work. And asking yourself can it? And should it?
This book also has a strong feeling of family. Both men are surrounded by people who love them. They all see what's happening between Drew and Duncan and are a cross between silently supportive, and mildly intrusive, but it was always done with kindness and good intentions.
I also loved how sexy this book was. I mean Cowboys, kilts and manties? Yes, please. But what I appreciated was that it never felt like a sexual gimmick, because lingerie was an intrinsic part of Drew's character. And Duncan was a dark horse. An exceptionally polite and sexually modest cowboy who's mouth turns dirty af when you get him in the bedroom. He had so many layers underneath his gruff exterior.
This book wasn't perfect. There's a few errors and one confusing paragraph where I think I mistook who was talking and But it wasn't enough to take away my enjoyment.
All in all this book just worked for me. I would love to keep reading about these characters. There's a larger than life character introduced at the end of the book, so who knows, maybe they'll get a book and we'll see Drew and Duncan again. Either way, this is going on my reread shelf.
October 12, 2021
2.5 stars. Editing and grammar errors throughout. Plot line jumped all over the place and made it so confusing. Disappointing as I had been wanting to read this one for quite a while.
August 27, 2017
4.5 Stars
My Highland Cowboy had so many of my love buttons in it, I don’t even know where to start. I love opposites who attract, but also complement, cowboys, snark, Scotsman, Brits, kilts and a well-earned HEA. Drew, Duncan and I got it all in the Highlands.
Duncan has inherited a ranch that he was able to turn into a successful destination vacation spot. His story is impressive and I couldn’t help but respect the guy for all he’s gone through. It’s not over the top, but I could get how it made him such a determined character from the beginning. He’s pretty shy overall in social situations but he’s got that quiet strength that is something I absolutely LOVE in an MC. Drew shows up at the ranch to stay for a bit as Drew’s sister is marrying Duncan’s BFF. Duncan is a designer from London with a passion for his work and a plethora of charming attitude he’s more than happy to share with everyone.
Duncan finds Drew . . . unsettling. Duncan is fine with his quiet albeit lonely life. He’s never really felt a spark with anyone regardless of their gender and he’s been with both men and women in his past. They were there to scratch an itch though and nothing more. Drew is attracted to Duncan from the get go, because HELLO, he’s a hot, tall, dark and handsome cowboy. The two get to know one another amidst the wedding planning and Drew manages to push a whole mess of Duncan’s buttons.
This is where my favorite, and at the same time, least favorite things happened. Let me babble a bit here. Duncan has complete control over his life and is a successful businessman but his love life is non-existent. Drew has no trouble finding dates and getting himself a little something, but he’s very career driven at this point and his company is on the cusp of making it big. He’s got no time to be someone’s experiment, he’s worked way too hard to get where he is. Drew has the confidence that Duncan doesn’t have in the romance department and he’s not questioning who he is, at all. I kind of figured he’d be driving the bus on this one, but he didn’t. He turned out to be all practical and while he did pursue Duncan, he never pushed too hard and he never begged. I was so frustrated when he left the ranch. I already loved these dudes and I wanted them to be together! Like, right then!
That wasn’t a thing though and reading further on, I’m glad it wasn’t. Duncan had to own this, he had to be the pursuer. It really showed how much personal progress he made and it wasn’t just about Drew. Sure, Drew was the catalyst, but Duncan wanted this happiness too and he had to learn to be comfortable and confident in his own skin before he could attempt to make Drew happy.
So, it wasn’t an easy road to an HEA for these guys, but it wasn’t overly angsty either. Thankfully! The journey and the bit of back and forth made the HEA more believable and while it did evolve pretty quickly once the time came, the compromises were legit for their lifestyles and I was all kinds of happy for them.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
My Highland Cowboy had so many of my love buttons in it, I don’t even know where to start. I love opposites who attract, but also complement, cowboys, snark, Scotsman, Brits, kilts and a well-earned HEA. Drew, Duncan and I got it all in the Highlands.
Duncan has inherited a ranch that he was able to turn into a successful destination vacation spot. His story is impressive and I couldn’t help but respect the guy for all he’s gone through. It’s not over the top, but I could get how it made him such a determined character from the beginning. He’s pretty shy overall in social situations but he’s got that quiet strength that is something I absolutely LOVE in an MC. Drew shows up at the ranch to stay for a bit as Drew’s sister is marrying Duncan’s BFF. Duncan is a designer from London with a passion for his work and a plethora of charming attitude he’s more than happy to share with everyone.
Duncan finds Drew . . . unsettling. Duncan is fine with his quiet albeit lonely life. He’s never really felt a spark with anyone regardless of their gender and he’s been with both men and women in his past. They were there to scratch an itch though and nothing more. Drew is attracted to Duncan from the get go, because HELLO, he’s a hot, tall, dark and handsome cowboy. The two get to know one another amidst the wedding planning and Drew manages to push a whole mess of Duncan’s buttons.
This is where my favorite, and at the same time, least favorite things happened. Let me babble a bit here. Duncan has complete control over his life and is a successful businessman but his love life is non-existent. Drew has no trouble finding dates and getting himself a little something, but he’s very career driven at this point and his company is on the cusp of making it big. He’s got no time to be someone’s experiment, he’s worked way too hard to get where he is. Drew has the confidence that Duncan doesn’t have in the romance department and he’s not questioning who he is, at all. I kind of figured he’d be driving the bus on this one, but he didn’t. He turned out to be all practical and while he did pursue Duncan, he never pushed too hard and he never begged. I was so frustrated when he left the ranch. I already loved these dudes and I wanted them to be together! Like, right then!
That wasn’t a thing though and reading further on, I’m glad it wasn’t. Duncan had to own this, he had to be the pursuer. It really showed how much personal progress he made and it wasn’t just about Drew. Sure, Drew was the catalyst, but Duncan wanted this happiness too and he had to learn to be comfortable and confident in his own skin before he could attempt to make Drew happy.
So, it wasn’t an easy road to an HEA for these guys, but it wasn’t overly angsty either. Thankfully! The journey and the bit of back and forth made the HEA more believable and while it did evolve pretty quickly once the time came, the compromises were legit for their lifestyles and I was all kinds of happy for them.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
June 23, 2017
As this story shows, cowboys come in all shapes and sizes – and even nationalities. The idea of a Scottish dude ranch made me smile but it works well. The Scottish Highlands, after all, are a great setting for city people to learn about making a living in the countryside, raising cattle, and horse riding. With one main character running McLeish’s Highland Experience, and the other a city boy who is into fashion, there was bound to be an interesting clash of worlds, maybe even a bit of conflict between two ways of seeing and dealing with the world.
Duncan has inherited his farm from his grandfather, his parents having passed away when he was younger. He has also learned a lot of what is acceptable behavior and what it means to be a man from the homophobic family man, and he finds it hard to deal with his own expectations of what he should do – which is almost diametrically opposed to what he feels and what he wants to do. There is more than one awkward moment when Duncan first meets Drew and feels an immediate attraction. But beyond the “why would he be interested in me” and the “he won’t even be here long enough for it to matter”, there is the real question of if Duncan even wants a partner to share his life with.
Drew is out, proud, and won’t hide from anyone. He’s as good at sports as he is at designing dresses, and traveling to the Highlands to design a wedding dress for his sister is no hardship for him. He can’t believe his eyes when he sees Duncan, and Drew has to fight hard to hide his attraction. Not that it takes long for him to figure out he isn’t the only one who has fallen in lust.
With both men liking each other as well as being very compatible in the bedroom, it really shouldn’t be hard for them to get a clue. The potential for happiness doesn’t exactly walk into your life every day, but there are also real differences between how Duncan sees his future and what Drew wants to achieve in his career. Yet, as opposite as they may seem when they first meet, they both soon realize it might just be worth it to reconsider their plans and come up with a new one…
If you like opposites attract stories, if a cowboy in the highlands and an up-and-coming fashion designer from London sound like an interesting couple, and if you’re looking for a read that is entertaining to the point of being very funny, has an interesting Highland setting, and contains some very hot, passionate moments between two men falling in love, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Duncan has inherited his farm from his grandfather, his parents having passed away when he was younger. He has also learned a lot of what is acceptable behavior and what it means to be a man from the homophobic family man, and he finds it hard to deal with his own expectations of what he should do – which is almost diametrically opposed to what he feels and what he wants to do. There is more than one awkward moment when Duncan first meets Drew and feels an immediate attraction. But beyond the “why would he be interested in me” and the “he won’t even be here long enough for it to matter”, there is the real question of if Duncan even wants a partner to share his life with.
Drew is out, proud, and won’t hide from anyone. He’s as good at sports as he is at designing dresses, and traveling to the Highlands to design a wedding dress for his sister is no hardship for him. He can’t believe his eyes when he sees Duncan, and Drew has to fight hard to hide his attraction. Not that it takes long for him to figure out he isn’t the only one who has fallen in lust.
With both men liking each other as well as being very compatible in the bedroom, it really shouldn’t be hard for them to get a clue. The potential for happiness doesn’t exactly walk into your life every day, but there are also real differences between how Duncan sees his future and what Drew wants to achieve in his career. Yet, as opposite as they may seem when they first meet, they both soon realize it might just be worth it to reconsider their plans and come up with a new one…
If you like opposites attract stories, if a cowboy in the highlands and an up-and-coming fashion designer from London sound like an interesting couple, and if you’re looking for a read that is entertaining to the point of being very funny, has an interesting Highland setting, and contains some very hot, passionate moments between two men falling in love, then you will probably like this novel.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 4, 2018
3.5 ⭐
nice and lovely reading, almost no angst or drama, with HFN (tending to HEA).
I appreciate the writing style, but sometimes I was confused about who was talking...
I recommend this one for an easy reading with a flamboyant designer x hot cowboy, settled in the Highlands instead of the typical US ranch.
nice and lovely reading, almost no angst or drama, with HFN (tending to HEA).
I appreciate the writing style, but sometimes I was confused about who was talking...
I recommend this one for an easy reading with a flamboyant designer x hot cowboy, settled in the Highlands instead of the typical US ranch.
May 30, 2017
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Signal Boost Promotions for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
Drew is a clothing designer and lives in London. He grew up in the country and was happy to get away from there to the city. When his sister is getting married, he heads to her home in Scotland to get measurements and discuss ideas related to dresses for the wedding. His sister has him stay at the ranch of her husband's best friend. Duncan has turned the family ranch into a successful dude ranch. Duncan and Drew are attracted to each from their initial meeting but neither is what the other needs in their life.
Drew is out and proud. He is who he is, and makes no apology for it. He's never been in the closet, he's a flirt, doesn't blend in, calls attention to himself, and turns everything into innuendo. The complete opposite of Duncan. Duncan was raised by a hard grandfather. Duncan is quiet, reserved, private, isn't sure if he's straight or gay and is fine without finding out. Though he thinks no one around him suspects he's gay, he would be wrong and they're all pushing him and Drew together. But the men don't live close and they have to go on with their normal lives. Living a part isn't as easy as they thought it would be now that they've met, hard decisions will have to be made.
I enjoyed the characters in this story but felt bad for Duncan. He was pushed far out of his comfort zone by everyone. Once I got to know Drew, I liked him more than I did upon my initial introduction to him. This was a fairly long book (196 pages), so I was a little surprised by the almost instalove that was happening. In reality, Drew and Duncan only spent a few days together and were willing to change everything to be together.
Have you read a book set in a different country than where you're from and been surprised there's a glossary of terms? I really could have used a glossary for this one. I haven't ever read books set in the Scotland Highlands so some of the terminology I didn't understand. This story has a HEA and had a nice set-up for the start of a series.
Rating: 4 stars
Drew is a clothing designer and lives in London. He grew up in the country and was happy to get away from there to the city. When his sister is getting married, he heads to her home in Scotland to get measurements and discuss ideas related to dresses for the wedding. His sister has him stay at the ranch of her husband's best friend. Duncan has turned the family ranch into a successful dude ranch. Duncan and Drew are attracted to each from their initial meeting but neither is what the other needs in their life.
Drew is out and proud. He is who he is, and makes no apology for it. He's never been in the closet, he's a flirt, doesn't blend in, calls attention to himself, and turns everything into innuendo. The complete opposite of Duncan. Duncan was raised by a hard grandfather. Duncan is quiet, reserved, private, isn't sure if he's straight or gay and is fine without finding out. Though he thinks no one around him suspects he's gay, he would be wrong and they're all pushing him and Drew together. But the men don't live close and they have to go on with their normal lives. Living a part isn't as easy as they thought it would be now that they've met, hard decisions will have to be made.
I enjoyed the characters in this story but felt bad for Duncan. He was pushed far out of his comfort zone by everyone. Once I got to know Drew, I liked him more than I did upon my initial introduction to him. This was a fairly long book (196 pages), so I was a little surprised by the almost instalove that was happening. In reality, Drew and Duncan only spent a few days together and were willing to change everything to be together.
Have you read a book set in a different country than where you're from and been surprised there's a glossary of terms? I really could have used a glossary for this one. I haven't ever read books set in the Scotland Highlands so some of the terminology I didn't understand. This story has a HEA and had a nice set-up for the start of a series.
Rating: 4 stars
June 6, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Confession time; cowboys aren’t my favorite thing, but Scotland was the draw here. Plus the premise sounded promising, and I was looking forward to reading this book. Milne gives a sweet love story that, while could have benefitted from some more depth in places, was ultimately a feel good read I enjoyed.
Drew is out and proud. Flamboyant and campy. A bit stereotypical at times, but he’s the kind of character that makes it work. He’s a hopeless flirt, and goes over the line sometimes. But he is who he is and makes no apologies. I have to say, I enjoyed his confidence and the way he went after what he wanted in life. At the same time, I liked his bit of hesitancy when dealing with Duncan, both him being unsure about exactly what it is that Duncan wanted and checking to make sure Duncan was okay with everything going on.
Duncan, too, read a bit like a “backwoods” stereotype. He lived a rather sheltered life, and drew up under the harsh eye of his grandfather. So there are definitely things in his past that have shaped his outlook. He was a bit of a contradiction at times; he was supposedly shy, but would spout exposition paragraphs about himself to a virtual stranger. His parents were diplomats, but he was very much an unworldly type guy. But he was big hearted and gentle, and though I wanted to shake him a few times, I liked him.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Confession time; cowboys aren’t my favorite thing, but Scotland was the draw here. Plus the premise sounded promising, and I was looking forward to reading this book. Milne gives a sweet love story that, while could have benefitted from some more depth in places, was ultimately a feel good read I enjoyed.
Drew is out and proud. Flamboyant and campy. A bit stereotypical at times, but he’s the kind of character that makes it work. He’s a hopeless flirt, and goes over the line sometimes. But he is who he is and makes no apologies. I have to say, I enjoyed his confidence and the way he went after what he wanted in life. At the same time, I liked his bit of hesitancy when dealing with Duncan, both him being unsure about exactly what it is that Duncan wanted and checking to make sure Duncan was okay with everything going on.
Duncan, too, read a bit like a “backwoods” stereotype. He lived a rather sheltered life, and drew up under the harsh eye of his grandfather. So there are definitely things in his past that have shaped his outlook. He was a bit of a contradiction at times; he was supposedly shy, but would spout exposition paragraphs about himself to a virtual stranger. His parents were diplomats, but he was very much an unworldly type guy. But he was big hearted and gentle, and though I wanted to shake him a few times, I liked him.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
June 5, 2017
4 Stars!!!
Drew is back in the Scottish Highlands where he grew up, to design a bridal gown for his sister Jenna. He's slowly but surely gaining fame as a designer and his clothing brand is close to being noticed in the fashion industry. He's out and proud and makes no apologies for who he is.
Duncan owns a ranch in Scotland and is Jenna's groom-to-be's best friend. He's reserved and shy, almost the complete opposite to the outgoing Drew, however, the sparks fly when they meet. Drew lives and works in London, especially now that his line might be picked up by a big store and Duncan can't leave his ranch, though, so they're between a rock and a hard place. Can they make their relationship work against those odds?
I loved Duncan and I really wanted him to get his HEA, especially with all he'd lost already. His grandfather had really done a number with him, but it was nice seeing him come out of his shell eventually. I liked Drew, but it took me a while to warm up to him. He was too brash at first and that put me off. He did get better and there was no denying the sparks that flew when Duncan and Drew were together. I adored that there wasn't unnecessary angst in their relationship, aside from the long-distance thing. It was refreshing.
I loved the secondary characters and overall, the story was very enjoyable, fun, hot, with just enough angst to keep things interesting and very well-written. I do hope the author writes us Lachlan and Cormac's story next, because I'd love to read it!
Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Drew is back in the Scottish Highlands where he grew up, to design a bridal gown for his sister Jenna. He's slowly but surely gaining fame as a designer and his clothing brand is close to being noticed in the fashion industry. He's out and proud and makes no apologies for who he is.
Duncan owns a ranch in Scotland and is Jenna's groom-to-be's best friend. He's reserved and shy, almost the complete opposite to the outgoing Drew, however, the sparks fly when they meet. Drew lives and works in London, especially now that his line might be picked up by a big store and Duncan can't leave his ranch, though, so they're between a rock and a hard place. Can they make their relationship work against those odds?
I loved Duncan and I really wanted him to get his HEA, especially with all he'd lost already. His grandfather had really done a number with him, but it was nice seeing him come out of his shell eventually. I liked Drew, but it took me a while to warm up to him. He was too brash at first and that put me off. He did get better and there was no denying the sparks that flew when Duncan and Drew were together. I adored that there wasn't unnecessary angst in their relationship, aside from the long-distance thing. It was refreshing.
I loved the secondary characters and overall, the story was very enjoyable, fun, hot, with just enough angst to keep things interesting and very well-written. I do hope the author writes us Lachlan and Cormac's story next, because I'd love to read it!
Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 5, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a very enjoyable read - and manages to combine the classic cowboy romance in the setting of the Highlands of Scotland - and the cowboy falls for is a London based fashion designer who amongst other things makes lacy male underwear! SO much opportunity for hotness, in and out of clothing!
Ms Milne has created a story which hangs together really well; it deals with the real issues of being gay in a remote community, and the 'impossibility' of someone wanting to uproot their life and move to such a remote location - however much they may care for the person. The issues of Duncan's preferences for men or women were not looked at in any depth, even though I thought they might be. But there was no doubting the chemistry between him and Drew. The pragmatism of both men was interesting, and usually not one examined much in a romance, so I liked the issue being considered.
Overall a good read, with some lovely scenes, and fabulous side characters - thank you Ms Milne.
This is a very enjoyable read - and manages to combine the classic cowboy romance in the setting of the Highlands of Scotland - and the cowboy falls for is a London based fashion designer who amongst other things makes lacy male underwear! SO much opportunity for hotness, in and out of clothing!
Ms Milne has created a story which hangs together really well; it deals with the real issues of being gay in a remote community, and the 'impossibility' of someone wanting to uproot their life and move to such a remote location - however much they may care for the person. The issues of Duncan's preferences for men or women were not looked at in any depth, even though I thought they might be. But there was no doubting the chemistry between him and Drew. The pragmatism of both men was interesting, and usually not one examined much in a romance, so I liked the issue being considered.
Overall a good read, with some lovely scenes, and fabulous side characters - thank you Ms Milne.
June 11, 2017
This didn't work for me at all.
This is a story about two very different men who are thrown together when one’s sister marries the other’s best friend. Alex is a fashion designer who lives in London and Duncan runs the family ranch in the Highlands. Alex comes to stay with Duncan for a bit while he’s working with bride on the outfits for the wedding. The two men are instantly attracted to each other but are total opposites.
I didn’t care for this book for a couple of reason. The first one being that both Alex and Duncan were stereotypical in a way I didn’t appreciate. Alex was the very flamboyant and campy fashion designer who doesn’t care what anyone thinks and Duncan is the gruff, closeted, alpha type guy. If their characters had been looked at in more depth maybe it would have worked but they weren’t. Both characters were shallowly done in my opinion and I never connected with either. By the end of the story I didn’t see what they saw in each other and I didn’t really care if they ended up together or not. There was also all kinds of talk about gender roles but it was done in a way that felt preachy to me. I need it to be expressed through the character’s feelings, not in a lecture.
Another issue was that while a lot of things happen, nothing happens. There are all kinds of random scenes, ie them taking a walk and helping a calf be born. It added nothing to the plot and didn’t help develop their relationship. There was a bunch of this kind of stuff, but little time of them growing into friends or romance. It was also insta-love which I hate. They’d know each other two days and there was crying during sex due to their strong feelings. I just couldn’t get on board with it. I found myself rolling my eyes and feeling zero connection between the two.
There was not anything wrong with the writing technically (grammar, editing etc was all fine) but I just couldn’t connect with the author’s style. I never became interested in the plot and I found myself skimming the last 25% or so just to get done. Unfortunately this is not one I would recommend.
This is a story about two very different men who are thrown together when one’s sister marries the other’s best friend. Alex is a fashion designer who lives in London and Duncan runs the family ranch in the Highlands. Alex comes to stay with Duncan for a bit while he’s working with bride on the outfits for the wedding. The two men are instantly attracted to each other but are total opposites.
I didn’t care for this book for a couple of reason. The first one being that both Alex and Duncan were stereotypical in a way I didn’t appreciate. Alex was the very flamboyant and campy fashion designer who doesn’t care what anyone thinks and Duncan is the gruff, closeted, alpha type guy. If their characters had been looked at in more depth maybe it would have worked but they weren’t. Both characters were shallowly done in my opinion and I never connected with either. By the end of the story I didn’t see what they saw in each other and I didn’t really care if they ended up together or not. There was also all kinds of talk about gender roles but it was done in a way that felt preachy to me. I need it to be expressed through the character’s feelings, not in a lecture.
Another issue was that while a lot of things happen, nothing happens. There are all kinds of random scenes, ie them taking a walk and helping a calf be born. It added nothing to the plot and didn’t help develop their relationship. There was a bunch of this kind of stuff, but little time of them growing into friends or romance. It was also insta-love which I hate. They’d know each other two days and there was crying during sex due to their strong feelings. I just couldn’t get on board with it. I found myself rolling my eyes and feeling zero connection between the two.
There was not anything wrong with the writing technically (grammar, editing etc was all fine) but I just couldn’t connect with the author’s style. I never became interested in the plot and I found myself skimming the last 25% or so just to get done. Unfortunately this is not one I would recommend.
July 23, 2017
Oxymoronic Delight
Whoever thought that a dude ranch in the Scottish Highlands could produce such a varied, lovable, free-wheeling and delightful cast of characters as Duncan and Drew and Jenna and Craig and the rest of this crowd.
Stunningly handsome 40-year-old dude rancher Duncan and cute and just slightly flamboyant fashion designer Drew fall in lust and carry on a hidden, then open, then crushingly heartbreaking, then hopeful, romance midst the preparations of a grand wedding for Drew's sister Jenna and Duncan's best mate Craig--and, oh, it's not as complicated as that.
It's just a wonderful tale filled with fun, and you know what's going to happen to give us a HEA somewhere around page 20. So what? It happens and you close the book with no regrets, just a smile and a hope that author Milne will find a way to spin off a sequel involving a couple of the other minor characters.
Whoever thought that a dude ranch in the Scottish Highlands could produce such a varied, lovable, free-wheeling and delightful cast of characters as Duncan and Drew and Jenna and Craig and the rest of this crowd.
Stunningly handsome 40-year-old dude rancher Duncan and cute and just slightly flamboyant fashion designer Drew fall in lust and carry on a hidden, then open, then crushingly heartbreaking, then hopeful, romance midst the preparations of a grand wedding for Drew's sister Jenna and Duncan's best mate Craig--and, oh, it's not as complicated as that.
It's just a wonderful tale filled with fun, and you know what's going to happen to give us a HEA somewhere around page 20. So what? It happens and you close the book with no regrets, just a smile and a hope that author Milne will find a way to spin off a sequel involving a couple of the other minor characters.
May 15, 2018
Wonderful
I loved these two main characters. They made me smile. I would love to actually see the manties line. Cowboys in the Highlands who sometimes were a kilt. Nirvana.
I loved these two main characters. They made me smile. I would love to actually see the manties line. Cowboys in the Highlands who sometimes were a kilt. Nirvana.
May 15, 2017
My Highland Cowboy is one of those stories that’s just right, with the perfect balance of…well, just about everything. Wonderful setting, characters I adored and in whom I became invested, just the right amount of angst, and some hot and sexy intimate scenes thrown in for good measure. This is definite re-read material, and though this is the first book I’ve read by this author, I’m now adding a whole bunch more of her books to my TBR list!
Books set in the Scottish highlands are some of my favorites as I love the setting—beautiful and refreshing, and of course so very romantic. Now drop a very American-style dude ranch in the middle of that with honest-to-goodness cowboys and you really have my attention. Duncan turns out to be a classic cowboy, with the added allure of his Scottish background, and he is such a sweet, kind man. To think that he’s up there with little chance of finding that one special person to spend his life with immediately put me in an “oh, Duncan” state of mind where I wouldn’t be satisfied unless he wound up with his happy ever after ending. While he doesn’t flaunt his sexuality, he isn’t really in the closet either—he just lives his life, mostly content.
Enter Drew, fashion designer, city-dweller, out-and-proud and very secure with who he is…and with no plans to spend any time up in those gorgeous highlands other than to take care of dresses for his sister’s wedding. Though he’s a city guy, he’s no stranger to highland life—but that doesn’t mean he wants to go back to it, even if it would include having Duncan all the time. The two of them fall quickly for each other, but to be honest it didn’t feel at all like insta-love as I was reading. The angst comes from the fact that they each have their own separate lives—hundreds of miles apart from each other—something that neither see a way around, no matter how much they want to be together.
As I mentioned previously, this story really does have a perfect balance. It is very well written with a good hook to keep your attention, and the chemistry between Duncan and Drew is quite obvious and definitely sizzling. I felt their emotional pain as they tried to work through not being together, and could feel their want when they were apart. To me it was evident who would need to be the one to make some concessions, it was just the “how” of it that needed to be sorted out. Getting to that point while feeling their love as well as their aching from being apart was what kept me riveted to the pages.
My Highland Cowboy was a lovely 4.5-star read for me, and I do highly recommend it to all M/M romance fans. If you’re a fan of the Scottish highlands or cowboys, you’re going to love it even more. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
Books set in the Scottish highlands are some of my favorites as I love the setting—beautiful and refreshing, and of course so very romantic. Now drop a very American-style dude ranch in the middle of that with honest-to-goodness cowboys and you really have my attention. Duncan turns out to be a classic cowboy, with the added allure of his Scottish background, and he is such a sweet, kind man. To think that he’s up there with little chance of finding that one special person to spend his life with immediately put me in an “oh, Duncan” state of mind where I wouldn’t be satisfied unless he wound up with his happy ever after ending. While he doesn’t flaunt his sexuality, he isn’t really in the closet either—he just lives his life, mostly content.
Enter Drew, fashion designer, city-dweller, out-and-proud and very secure with who he is…and with no plans to spend any time up in those gorgeous highlands other than to take care of dresses for his sister’s wedding. Though he’s a city guy, he’s no stranger to highland life—but that doesn’t mean he wants to go back to it, even if it would include having Duncan all the time. The two of them fall quickly for each other, but to be honest it didn’t feel at all like insta-love as I was reading. The angst comes from the fact that they each have their own separate lives—hundreds of miles apart from each other—something that neither see a way around, no matter how much they want to be together.
As I mentioned previously, this story really does have a perfect balance. It is very well written with a good hook to keep your attention, and the chemistry between Duncan and Drew is quite obvious and definitely sizzling. I felt their emotional pain as they tried to work through not being together, and could feel their want when they were apart. To me it was evident who would need to be the one to make some concessions, it was just the “how” of it that needed to be sorted out. Getting to that point while feeling their love as well as their aching from being apart was what kept me riveted to the pages.
My Highland Cowboy was a lovely 4.5-star read for me, and I do highly recommend it to all M/M romance fans. If you’re a fan of the Scottish highlands or cowboys, you’re going to love it even more. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
June 6, 2017
Book & Author: My Highland Cowboy by Alexa Milne
Rating: 4.5 stars
I love a story of opposites finding each other. Duncan is a rancher in the highlands of Scotland, and Drew is a fashion designer in London. One lives a slow and steady life of animals and tourists and family, while the other lives the high life in the city with fashion shows and fancy restaurants and night out on the town.
I immediately loved both these characters.
Duncan was like this big tough cowboy with a soft mushy center and a huge heart. I broke for him and what he has to deal with in life but he had such a great groups of family and friends that supported him not matter what. Even at 40, Duncan struggled with his sexuality mainly because of his upbringing but true to who he is the obstacles through that were handled without drama but in the quiet parts of his mind. He thinks things through which fit his personality perfectly.
Drew was out and proud, and maybe a bit cocky but I felt like he had these defense up at all times because of people assumptions of who he was. A gay man who design clothes obviously can’t do all the big tough cowboy things or know sports (sarcasm and a big eye roll). But I loved him anyway in his forceful but lively nature. His snark was great, and I loved his banter with his sister, Jenna, most.
What started as a vacation fling quickly turns to more, more of something neither man is in a place to have or work around. There was a lot of push and pull between Duncan and Drew but none was drama filled. The chemistry within the months of them trying to figure things out was off-the-charts hot! Not many writers are this good at writing this type of push and pull keeping the level of heat but not letting the struggle overwhelm the storyline.
The writing was beautiful along with the world she created for us in the Highlands of Scotland from the warm days of summer to the snowy days of winter. There were one or two spots that had contradicting events (one small and one fairly big IMO) written and that bothered me and made me have to go back to make sure I didn't remember something wrong. That’s the only reason I’m taking a half of a star off the rating because otherwise, it was flawless.
And on that note, I loved the story, the characters, and their families and I’m hoping to read a story about Lachie and Cormac, please!!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
Rating: 4.5 stars
I love a story of opposites finding each other. Duncan is a rancher in the highlands of Scotland, and Drew is a fashion designer in London. One lives a slow and steady life of animals and tourists and family, while the other lives the high life in the city with fashion shows and fancy restaurants and night out on the town.
I immediately loved both these characters.
Duncan was like this big tough cowboy with a soft mushy center and a huge heart. I broke for him and what he has to deal with in life but he had such a great groups of family and friends that supported him not matter what. Even at 40, Duncan struggled with his sexuality mainly because of his upbringing but true to who he is the obstacles through that were handled without drama but in the quiet parts of his mind. He thinks things through which fit his personality perfectly.
Drew was out and proud, and maybe a bit cocky but I felt like he had these defense up at all times because of people assumptions of who he was. A gay man who design clothes obviously can’t do all the big tough cowboy things or know sports (sarcasm and a big eye roll). But I loved him anyway in his forceful but lively nature. His snark was great, and I loved his banter with his sister, Jenna, most.
What started as a vacation fling quickly turns to more, more of something neither man is in a place to have or work around. There was a lot of push and pull between Duncan and Drew but none was drama filled. The chemistry within the months of them trying to figure things out was off-the-charts hot! Not many writers are this good at writing this type of push and pull keeping the level of heat but not letting the struggle overwhelm the storyline.
The writing was beautiful along with the world she created for us in the Highlands of Scotland from the warm days of summer to the snowy days of winter. There were one or two spots that had contradicting events (one small and one fairly big IMO) written and that bothered me and made me have to go back to make sure I didn't remember something wrong. That’s the only reason I’m taking a half of a star off the rating because otherwise, it was flawless.
And on that note, I loved the story, the characters, and their families and I’m hoping to read a story about Lachie and Cormac, please!!
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
May 30, 2017
My Highland Cowboy is one of those reads that has a bit of everything, opposites attract, cowboys, out and proud and I loved it! There is also a great blend of romance, humor and just the right amount of angst too. I totally fell for Declan and Drew and their touching story!
On the surface, Declan and Drew do not seem like they would make a good or likely couple. Declan lives in the Scottish Highlands and is completely happy on his ranch away from the city. Drew, despite having grown up in the Highlands loves his busy life in London working as a designer. The two men meet during wedding preparations for Drew’s sister and Declan’s best friend and despite their differences there is an instant connection, one neither man can forget no matter how hard they try!
These two don’t get off to the best start, Drew is out and proud and will flirt with anyone while Declan has led a much more sheltered life, not really admitting his sexual preferences to anyone. Drew comes on a bit strong for him but eventually these two get passed that awkward beginning. They can’t deny their connection and their chemistry and set out on what is only supposed to be a week of fun. But when it’s time to leave, it certainly isn’t easy for either man. I think Alexa Milne does a fantastic job with this part of the story – so much emotion and feeling! My heart hurt for these two during their time apart! But is does make for a great story!
Drew and Declan have to earn their happy, both men figuring out what is really important in life and if that can make that happen together. This book make me laugh, made me swoon and yes there were a few tears, it really had it all. I loved both of these men, Drew with his sass and strength and Declan with his sweet heart and innocence! They fall in love and find a way to make it work! I definitely am looking forward to reading more from Alexa Milne!
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book for The Geekery Book Review.
On the surface, Declan and Drew do not seem like they would make a good or likely couple. Declan lives in the Scottish Highlands and is completely happy on his ranch away from the city. Drew, despite having grown up in the Highlands loves his busy life in London working as a designer. The two men meet during wedding preparations for Drew’s sister and Declan’s best friend and despite their differences there is an instant connection, one neither man can forget no matter how hard they try!
These two don’t get off to the best start, Drew is out and proud and will flirt with anyone while Declan has led a much more sheltered life, not really admitting his sexual preferences to anyone. Drew comes on a bit strong for him but eventually these two get passed that awkward beginning. They can’t deny their connection and their chemistry and set out on what is only supposed to be a week of fun. But when it’s time to leave, it certainly isn’t easy for either man. I think Alexa Milne does a fantastic job with this part of the story – so much emotion and feeling! My heart hurt for these two during their time apart! But is does make for a great story!
Drew and Declan have to earn their happy, both men figuring out what is really important in life and if that can make that happen together. This book make me laugh, made me swoon and yes there were a few tears, it really had it all. I loved both of these men, Drew with his sass and strength and Declan with his sweet heart and innocence! They fall in love and find a way to make it work! I definitely am looking forward to reading more from Alexa Milne!
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book for The Geekery Book Review.
June 7, 2017
When Fashion Meets Frontier
My Highland Cowboy is an interesting twist on the usually-American-set ranch story. Taking place in the Scottish Highlands, the ranch is owned by Duncan, who has turned it into a dude ranch. A successful ranch, but a lonely rancher, until he meets the indomitable Drew. Drew is a fashion designer whose sister is marrying Duncan’s best friend at the ranch, and it’s his job to make the ladies beautiful. He is full of swish with not a shy bone in his body, and he is catnip to Duncan’s inner feline.
The plot was a curious mix that shouldn’t work, but did. The two men tried hard to find some semblance of balance in order to make their attraction work itself into something more. A few days together read like a great many more, so while there was basically insta-love, which I normally don’t like outside paranormal books, it didn’t actually feel like insta-love, but rather like they had plenty of time to feel each other out, learn about themselves, and then come together as a pair. The chemistry is strong, and their intimacy was very hot!
There is a decent size peripheral cast of characters, and I enjoyed watching their antics as well as those of the protagonists while dealing with the peripherals. Written in third person past tense, the dialogue is engaging, the humor is strong, and the story pulls you deeply into their world.
A solid, fun read, I am rating this at four stars and recommending it for anyone on the lookout for depth and humor with love woven throughout. I’m fast becoming a fan of Alexa Milne, and this is just another shining example of why!
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book for Divine Magazine from Pride Publishing with hopes for but no obligation to provide a review.
**Same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.**
My Highland Cowboy is an interesting twist on the usually-American-set ranch story. Taking place in the Scottish Highlands, the ranch is owned by Duncan, who has turned it into a dude ranch. A successful ranch, but a lonely rancher, until he meets the indomitable Drew. Drew is a fashion designer whose sister is marrying Duncan’s best friend at the ranch, and it’s his job to make the ladies beautiful. He is full of swish with not a shy bone in his body, and he is catnip to Duncan’s inner feline.
The plot was a curious mix that shouldn’t work, but did. The two men tried hard to find some semblance of balance in order to make their attraction work itself into something more. A few days together read like a great many more, so while there was basically insta-love, which I normally don’t like outside paranormal books, it didn’t actually feel like insta-love, but rather like they had plenty of time to feel each other out, learn about themselves, and then come together as a pair. The chemistry is strong, and their intimacy was very hot!
There is a decent size peripheral cast of characters, and I enjoyed watching their antics as well as those of the protagonists while dealing with the peripherals. Written in third person past tense, the dialogue is engaging, the humor is strong, and the story pulls you deeply into their world.
A solid, fun read, I am rating this at four stars and recommending it for anyone on the lookout for depth and humor with love woven throughout. I’m fast becoming a fan of Alexa Milne, and this is just another shining example of why!
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book for Divine Magazine from Pride Publishing with hopes for but no obligation to provide a review.
**Same worded review will appear on Goodreads, Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com.**
May 30, 2017
4-1/2 Stars
Cowboys, the Scottish Highlands, opposites attract, comedy, romance, heat, family. What's not to love? My Highland Cowboy has it all and even though it is packed full of a little bit of everything it doesn't lose its heart. The whole idea of a City Slickers style ranch in Scotland is an interesting setting to bring main characters Duncan and Drew together for a family and friends wedding.
On the surface, Duncan McLeish and Drew Sinclair could not be more opposite than their country vs. city lives they live. But, as in life, not everything is as it seems. Duncan's upbringing wasn't as country as his ranch now and Drew didn't always live in the city but now their lives are very different. Will their chemistry be enough to overcome the location logistics? Well, for that answer you will have to give My Highland Cowboy a read for yourself but I can safely and honestly tell you that you will not regret it.
The old adage sometimes you have to give to get, well that is what Duncan and Drew are facing if they want to be together and watching them deny what they feel is more than a fling is a bit heartbreaking but seeing their family and friends rally around them, or at least try to, is heartwarming. Having a story that can both break your heart and warm it on the same page is not easy and shows real talent by the author, as is having just the right amount of angst mixed into a lighthearted read. My Highland Cowboy is not my first Alexa Milne read and it has proven that I'll be looking at her backlist to add to my TBR list.
Cowboys, the Scottish Highlands, opposites attract, comedy, romance, heat, family. What's not to love? My Highland Cowboy has it all and even though it is packed full of a little bit of everything it doesn't lose its heart. The whole idea of a City Slickers style ranch in Scotland is an interesting setting to bring main characters Duncan and Drew together for a family and friends wedding.
On the surface, Duncan McLeish and Drew Sinclair could not be more opposite than their country vs. city lives they live. But, as in life, not everything is as it seems. Duncan's upbringing wasn't as country as his ranch now and Drew didn't always live in the city but now their lives are very different. Will their chemistry be enough to overcome the location logistics? Well, for that answer you will have to give My Highland Cowboy a read for yourself but I can safely and honestly tell you that you will not regret it.
The old adage sometimes you have to give to get, well that is what Duncan and Drew are facing if they want to be together and watching them deny what they feel is more than a fling is a bit heartbreaking but seeing their family and friends rally around them, or at least try to, is heartwarming. Having a story that can both break your heart and warm it on the same page is not easy and shows real talent by the author, as is having just the right amount of angst mixed into a lighthearted read. My Highland Cowboy is not my first Alexa Milne read and it has proven that I'll be looking at her backlist to add to my TBR list.
September 17, 2017
I've read this three times now and loved it every time. Alexa creates characters who are real - with depth, sensitivity, humour, flaws and all; characters we can not only love, but we can call friends. We are invited into their lives to share their journey towards finding each other - and finding themselves along the way.
The details of the story, and the stunning settings, are rich and paint vivid pictures, transporting the reader far from their own surroundings to settle in the beauty of the Scottish hills or the never-ending bustle of London's fashion industry.
The story of the Fashion Designer and Highland Cowboy and how their vastly different worlds collide with is one you need to take yourself - it's too good to be spoiled here. Safe to say it's one you won't be able to put down and I guarantee the first reading won't be the last. A must-have for your collection.
The details of the story, and the stunning settings, are rich and paint vivid pictures, transporting the reader far from their own surroundings to settle in the beauty of the Scottish hills or the never-ending bustle of London's fashion industry.
The story of the Fashion Designer and Highland Cowboy and how their vastly different worlds collide with is one you need to take yourself - it's too good to be spoiled here. Safe to say it's one you won't be able to put down and I guarantee the first reading won't be the last. A must-have for your collection.
June 24, 2017
3 heart review for Love Bytes Reviews.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
This is the tale of Duncan and Drew, and how they fall in luuuuurve…..
As you can see from the blurb, these two have one thing in common, they both are from the Scottish Highlands, but that’s pretty much it! Duncan has stayed in Scotland, settling on his grandfather’s farm and turning it in to a Texas style dude ranch. He wears plaid shirts, a Stetson hat, and cowboy boots! He raises cattle and a few horses, but mostly focuses on growing his business. He employees a few people, who have become more like family to him. His best friend from school, Craig, lives nearby and is soon to marry Jenna, a local veterinarian that takes care of Duncan’s animals. Jenna’s brother, Drew, is coming up from London to design dresses for the girls for the winter wedding planned at Duncan’s ranch. Drew may have been raised in Scotland on an estate, but he is a city boy at heart. He is a clothing designer, both women’s dresses, and a line of men’s lingerie. He’s staying at Duncan’s ranch for a few days as he works up designs for dresses for the wedding, and becomes quite enamored with Duncan, the sexy cowboy…
This gets our two men together and starts them on a dramatic story. It’s a fairly typical story from here, the two spend some time together doing naughty things, and nice things, both inside the bedroom and outside, and have some big issues to work through. But it’s been done before, and there are no surprises in this plot. Duncan lives in Scotland and is happy on his ranch, and Drew lives in London, and is happy with his life there. How can the two be together? Who will make a sacrifice? How will this work out?
What makes this story interesting is the characters. Both Duncan and Drew certainly, but the side characters as well. I liked Jenna and Craig, and the folks that work on the ranch. Duncan has a dog I liked, and we get to see some interaction with various animals on the ranch. Drew interacts with his friends in London, who I also liked. The sex scenes were well done, and I totally felt the bond that forms between the men. I loved Drew’s sexy underwear, and Duncan’s enjoyment of them. I liked the process Duncan goes through as a character, he totally opens up over the story, from a lonely man, to a lover. I think he changed most of the two of them. I liked the book overall, the writing was good, but the plot was just so-s0. There just wasn’t anything I hadn’t read before. It all comes down to a lack of conversations and openness between Drew and Duncan. That gets old after reading it in multiple books. I wanted them to sit and talk! So much drama could have been avoided…
The thing that surprised me was how not-Scottish these characters seemed. There was very little regional phrasing or dialect, no accents written in to their dialogue (too much can be a bad thing, but a little is fine), things like that. A bit, but really not much. I checked to see where the author lives, because it made me feel like it was written by an American, but her bio says she lives in the UK. It wasn’t something that ruined the story for me, but I did think about it several times over the story.
This is the first book I’ve read by Alexa Milne, I do need to check out some of her others. I’m always looking for new to me authors, so I’m glad I read this one, even though I didn’t find the plot particularly interesting. It was a good way to spend my reading time this weekend, sexy men are always a good thing!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
This is the tale of Duncan and Drew, and how they fall in luuuuurve…..
As you can see from the blurb, these two have one thing in common, they both are from the Scottish Highlands, but that’s pretty much it! Duncan has stayed in Scotland, settling on his grandfather’s farm and turning it in to a Texas style dude ranch. He wears plaid shirts, a Stetson hat, and cowboy boots! He raises cattle and a few horses, but mostly focuses on growing his business. He employees a few people, who have become more like family to him. His best friend from school, Craig, lives nearby and is soon to marry Jenna, a local veterinarian that takes care of Duncan’s animals. Jenna’s brother, Drew, is coming up from London to design dresses for the girls for the winter wedding planned at Duncan’s ranch. Drew may have been raised in Scotland on an estate, but he is a city boy at heart. He is a clothing designer, both women’s dresses, and a line of men’s lingerie. He’s staying at Duncan’s ranch for a few days as he works up designs for dresses for the wedding, and becomes quite enamored with Duncan, the sexy cowboy…
This gets our two men together and starts them on a dramatic story. It’s a fairly typical story from here, the two spend some time together doing naughty things, and nice things, both inside the bedroom and outside, and have some big issues to work through. But it’s been done before, and there are no surprises in this plot. Duncan lives in Scotland and is happy on his ranch, and Drew lives in London, and is happy with his life there. How can the two be together? Who will make a sacrifice? How will this work out?
What makes this story interesting is the characters. Both Duncan and Drew certainly, but the side characters as well. I liked Jenna and Craig, and the folks that work on the ranch. Duncan has a dog I liked, and we get to see some interaction with various animals on the ranch. Drew interacts with his friends in London, who I also liked. The sex scenes were well done, and I totally felt the bond that forms between the men. I loved Drew’s sexy underwear, and Duncan’s enjoyment of them. I liked the process Duncan goes through as a character, he totally opens up over the story, from a lonely man, to a lover. I think he changed most of the two of them. I liked the book overall, the writing was good, but the plot was just so-s0. There just wasn’t anything I hadn’t read before. It all comes down to a lack of conversations and openness between Drew and Duncan. That gets old after reading it in multiple books. I wanted them to sit and talk! So much drama could have been avoided…
The thing that surprised me was how not-Scottish these characters seemed. There was very little regional phrasing or dialect, no accents written in to their dialogue (too much can be a bad thing, but a little is fine), things like that. A bit, but really not much. I checked to see where the author lives, because it made me feel like it was written by an American, but her bio says she lives in the UK. It wasn’t something that ruined the story for me, but I did think about it several times over the story.
This is the first book I’ve read by Alexa Milne, I do need to check out some of her others. I’m always looking for new to me authors, so I’m glad I read this one, even though I didn’t find the plot particularly interesting. It was a good way to spend my reading time this weekend, sexy men are always a good thing!
June 3, 2017
A charming story. Full review to follow soon.
July 11, 2017
A very well-written 'fluffy' romance by my favourite M/M author. Will love conquer all for two seemingly different men? A good read for anyone who enjoys M/M erotic romance.
April 4, 2023
A charming opposites attract romance with a simply glorious Highland setting. Irresistible!
June 12, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
This was a very nice story. Duncan has resigned himself to being alone knowing that no one would want to move to the country even if he could ever find someone he wanted to live his life with. Drew throws his lonely and well managed life out of whack and he isn’t sure what to do about it.
Drew has never found someone worth keeping around and will flirt shamelessly with all those around him. They both are open while Drew is visiting but don’t even risk thinking that their lives could be intertwined and they end up hurting themselves more than they even thought possible. It was hard to see both of them hurting and knowing their friends didn’t quite know how to help them.
We see both of these characters’ points of view which allows us to understand these characters better. I could feel Duncan’s confusion about his feelings that contradicted how his grandfather raised him but knowing that he can’t leave his ranch he resigns himself to nothing more ever happening. Drew has never felt this strongly for a lover before and can’t seem to get Duncan out of his head, not even able to move on as he planned when he got back to London. I loved that Drew realized he couldn’t live without Duncan and was able to adjust his life to make their dreams possible.
Cover art is beautiful and gives a great visual of Duncan and background for the story.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
This was a very nice story. Duncan has resigned himself to being alone knowing that no one would want to move to the country even if he could ever find someone he wanted to live his life with. Drew throws his lonely and well managed life out of whack and he isn’t sure what to do about it.
Drew has never found someone worth keeping around and will flirt shamelessly with all those around him. They both are open while Drew is visiting but don’t even risk thinking that their lives could be intertwined and they end up hurting themselves more than they even thought possible. It was hard to see both of them hurting and knowing their friends didn’t quite know how to help them.
We see both of these characters’ points of view which allows us to understand these characters better. I could feel Duncan’s confusion about his feelings that contradicted how his grandfather raised him but knowing that he can’t leave his ranch he resigns himself to nothing more ever happening. Drew has never felt this strongly for a lover before and can’t seem to get Duncan out of his head, not even able to move on as he planned when he got back to London. I loved that Drew realized he couldn’t live without Duncan and was able to adjust his life to make their dreams possible.
Cover art is beautiful and gives a great visual of Duncan and background for the story.
April 19, 2023
1 star.
I think that I would have liked this better, if I hadn't been reading books that I considered really well written surrounding this one, and if I wasn't trying to read books as fast as I could for a challenge. I don't know if I would have loved it, and I didn't really like the other book that I've read by this author. So I'll just say this author is not for me, and I'm glad to know it and get it off my TBR.
I think that I would have liked this better, if I hadn't been reading books that I considered really well written surrounding this one, and if I wasn't trying to read books as fast as I could for a challenge. I don't know if I would have loved it, and I didn't really like the other book that I've read by this author. So I'll just say this author is not for me, and I'm glad to know it and get it off my TBR.
June 25, 2018
This was a low angst, sweet romance in a wonderful setting. I loved the ranch in the Scottish Highlands. Duncan, the older rancher, and Drew, the young flamboyant fashion designer were complete opposites, but they could not resist each other. The development of their relationship was nicely written and I enjoyed the descriptions of the Scottish countryside.
July 25, 2018
3.5 stars
Want to read
June 6, 20186/6/18 Currently 99c via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07254H7DY/...
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