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The MacCarthy Sisters #1
Tangled in Time
A time-travel romance for fans of Diana Gabaldon and Hazel Hunter.
To set him free from an ancient curse, she must travel to a time of myth and legend…
Regan MacCarthy’s ability to see ghosts is a gift inherited from her Irish ancestors, but it’s one she’d dearly like to give back. In an attempt to return her powers to their source, she travels to Ireland to harness the ancient magic that still permeates the mystical site of Newgrange. Instead, something far more unexpected awaits her: a strapping, gorgeous stranger who insists he’s a centuries-old Celtic warrior.
Fáelán was one of Fionn MacCumhaill’s elite soldiers before being cursed by a resentful fae princess. The only way to free himself is to fall so deeply in love that he’d sacrifice his life. Not an easy matter when he’s invisible to most. Yet Regan sees him—not just the proud, handsome warrior on the surface, but the complex man beneath. Only when it’s too late does Fáelán realize that drawing this beautiful mortal into his world has endangered them both, and may destroy the happiness he’s waited an eternity to claim…
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 24, 2017
1242 people are currently reading
1280 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Longley
30 books556 followersBarbara Longley graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education/Human Relations, and holds a Master’s in Ed./SLD from the University of Minnesota. When the integration district where she taught dissolved in 2015, she transitioned into writing full time. Ms. Longley is listed on RWA’s Honor Roll of Bestselling Authors, and her books have garnered many awards, including a Maggie, the Holt Medallion, a National Readers’ Choice, two Heart of Excellence awards, a Bookseller’s Best award, and Diamond Award for reaching more than a million readers (2015). Ms. Longley creates memorable heroes and heroines who grow into their strength and go on to save the day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
December 16, 2017
Perfect for fans of Outlander and Jude Deveraux, Tangled in Time transports you to long-lost soulmates in the lush backdrop of Ireland. I love time travel romance and this one is incredible. I was so sad when it ended and can't wait for the next installment. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author via Netgalley in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author via Netgalley in the hopes I'd review it.
My Rating: 5 stars
September 14, 2017
‘Tangled in Time’s premise has a certain fairy-tale like veneer to it: a man stuck in some indeterminate, liminal realm, cursed by a fae princess, to be set free only when he finally falls in love and gets a woman to return that sentiment.
The only problem is, Regan MacCarthy refuses to believe that Faelan of the Fiann is anything but a ghost and the latter’s effort trying to convince her takes up a significant part of the first part. The first part of the story goes as expected: Faelan is already half in love with Regan for engaging him and seems to be determined that he will be falling in love with her. Gotta love that ardent, earnest spirit, hey? Except that this happens only for the first half of the story, until Faelan’s curse isn’t released at all, because well, a vengeful fae refuses to let him go.
I spent a fair bit of the first part simply trying to figure out the mythology of the fae and the realms and Longley’s interpretation of Faelan’s cursed existence, which left me more puzzled by how it all worked. But being stuck in the void is just weird business: Faelan, as a 1800-year-old cursed guy, can ‘teleport’ himself past his island, though he isn’t susceptible to the elements, can shave with a disposable plastic razor (does he really shuttle material things back and forth the realms?!), speaks like a Scot, can’t smell, and even manages to alternate between ancient and modern clothes—it’s a mental tally that I’d gotten going subconsciously as it sort of became clear how he managed that.
Yet I was going along with the ride though, until some twists and turns came towards the middle of the book and these revelations made the story difficult to continue after that. There is sort of another woman involved, though not in the traditional sense and the consequences of Faelan’s ancient indiscretions as we learn later, is actually the basis for why he’s stuck that way. Despite the interesting paranormal slant to the story, the heavy involvement of OWs is a personal turn-off and then throwing some foetuses into the mix just makes it worse.
I’m just sorry to say I can’t give a better review and rating to this story whose blurb intrigued me so much. It was fun to see the mythical Ireland reconstructed through Barbara Longley’s pen, complete with mists, rolling hills and magic dust and I really thought I’d enjoy this a lot more than I would but after a while, ’Tangled in Time’ almost felt like a morality tale of not messing with more powerful spirits or things living in the unseen realms of existence…or else.
*ARC by Netgalley
The only problem is, Regan MacCarthy refuses to believe that Faelan of the Fiann is anything but a ghost and the latter’s effort trying to convince her takes up a significant part of the first part. The first part of the story goes as expected: Faelan is already half in love with Regan for engaging him and seems to be determined that he will be falling in love with her. Gotta love that ardent, earnest spirit, hey? Except that this happens only for the first half of the story, until Faelan’s curse isn’t released at all, because well, a vengeful fae refuses to let him go.
I spent a fair bit of the first part simply trying to figure out the mythology of the fae and the realms and Longley’s interpretation of Faelan’s cursed existence, which left me more puzzled by how it all worked. But being stuck in the void is just weird business: Faelan, as a 1800-year-old cursed guy, can ‘teleport’ himself past his island, though he isn’t susceptible to the elements, can shave with a disposable plastic razor (does he really shuttle material things back and forth the realms?!), speaks like a Scot, can’t smell, and even manages to alternate between ancient and modern clothes—it’s a mental tally that I’d gotten going subconsciously as it sort of became clear how he managed that.
Yet I was going along with the ride though, until some twists and turns came towards the middle of the book and these revelations made the story difficult to continue after that. There is sort of another woman involved, though not in the traditional sense and the consequences of Faelan’s ancient indiscretions as we learn later, is actually the basis for why he’s stuck that way. Despite the interesting paranormal slant to the story, the heavy involvement of OWs is a personal turn-off and then throwing some foetuses into the mix just makes it worse.
I’m just sorry to say I can’t give a better review and rating to this story whose blurb intrigued me so much. It was fun to see the mythical Ireland reconstructed through Barbara Longley’s pen, complete with mists, rolling hills and magic dust and I really thought I’d enjoy this a lot more than I would but after a while, ’Tangled in Time’ almost felt like a morality tale of not messing with more powerful spirits or things living in the unseen realms of existence…or else.
*ARC by Netgalley
September 28, 2018
I wanted to like this but there was just too much of the story that didn't make a bit of sense. How did he learn modern language? Why did he have a disposable razor and WHY did he need to shave at all if he was in an in-between state? How was he able to teleport and why? The worldbuilding just didn't work.
October 20, 2017
The time travel clock ticks ever so slowly in this one, my fellow romance book loving friends. Though at first I was intrigued by the concept and the characters’ backgrounds, I found myself frustrated at the snail, slow pace in the first half of this book. As an avid romantic at heart, I’m usually very patient when it comes to waiting for the main couple to get tangled up in the sheets, mostly because I prefer a strong, established emotional connection to take place first. However, a considerable amount of time was spent on the ins and outs of Regan and her relatives’ ghostly gifts and Faelan fumbling around trying to convince Regan to recognize he did really need her to break a curse some may feel he earned.
At nearly 30% into it, when a windy explanation with even more details about gravity, magnetism, realms, solstices and equinoxes was presented to try to lend some credibility to this fictitious scenario, I seriously started to question whether I was wasting my time and if I should just give up the ghost and move on to my next romantic read.
At 62%, when after two big reveals and a task assigned to Regan that did not sit well with me, I found myself not wanting to suffer through how it all works out just to get to a HEA. I actually did push onward until 85%, and it still didn’t get any better for me, folks.
Here’s to hoping others enjoy it. I just didn’t overly enjoy the author’s direction or delivery of this particular storyline.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Tangled in Time, Author: Barbara Longley, Pages: 268, stand-alone, paranormal, former manho hero, didn’t really enjoy it.
(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
At nearly 30% into it, when a windy explanation with even more details about gravity, magnetism, realms, solstices and equinoxes was presented to try to lend some credibility to this fictitious scenario, I seriously started to question whether I was wasting my time and if I should just give up the ghost and move on to my next romantic read.
At 62%, when after two big reveals and a task assigned to Regan that did not sit well with me, I found myself not wanting to suffer through how it all works out just to get to a HEA. I actually did push onward until 85%, and it still didn’t get any better for me, folks.
Here’s to hoping others enjoy it. I just didn’t overly enjoy the author’s direction or delivery of this particular storyline.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Tangled in Time, Author: Barbara Longley, Pages: 268, stand-alone, paranormal, former manho hero, didn’t really enjoy it.
(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
August 26, 2018
This started out really promising but ended up leaving me slightly disappointed. I thought the idea of the story was excellent and I enjoyed the mystical aspect of the story very much. Where it fell flat for me was the characters. I’m really big on characters when I’m reading and connection with them is important for me. But I felt next to nothing for our main character, she actually kind of drove me nuts at times and my enjoyment of the book was severely affected by that.
November 3, 2017
I've long enjoyed Barbara Longley's time-travel books, so I was especially looking forward to this one, which is set in Ireland, not Scotland, and is the first book in her new McCarthy Sisters series.
The Story-
Regan can see ghosts, and it is inconvenient. So, she has decided to go to Ireland to see if there is some sort of ancient magic which can help to rid her of this gift. When she meets what she thinks is a ghost needing to cross over, her desires will change. Faelan has been a prisoner of a fae princess for over a thousand years and cursed to remain there until he finds a woman to love. Every year on solstice, he is able to materialize for one day, but when a woman can see him before he materializes, he feels that she is the one.
My Thoughts-
This is so different from most time-travel romances. First of all, the Ireland setting is not just window dressing; it is well-researched and is almost a character in itself. I also enjoyed the paranormal aspects to the story and how they were dealt with. This isn't just some slippage through time that is never truly explained. Much of the plot is devoted to the couple actually getting to know one another and fall in love; imagine that! I was totally invested in the relationship and believed it, so when the climax came, nothing felt forced, too fast, or like it didn't deserve the payoff. Much of the story takes place in current day Ireland and feels a bit like the movie "Ghost" which was fun and unexpected.
The Bottom Line-
Longley is my "go-to" author for time-travel and historical paranormal romance. This book went fast and kept me intrigued the whole time. 4 1/2 stars
The Story-
Regan can see ghosts, and it is inconvenient. So, she has decided to go to Ireland to see if there is some sort of ancient magic which can help to rid her of this gift. When she meets what she thinks is a ghost needing to cross over, her desires will change. Faelan has been a prisoner of a fae princess for over a thousand years and cursed to remain there until he finds a woman to love. Every year on solstice, he is able to materialize for one day, but when a woman can see him before he materializes, he feels that she is the one.
My Thoughts-
This is so different from most time-travel romances. First of all, the Ireland setting is not just window dressing; it is well-researched and is almost a character in itself. I also enjoyed the paranormal aspects to the story and how they were dealt with. This isn't just some slippage through time that is never truly explained. Much of the plot is devoted to the couple actually getting to know one another and fall in love; imagine that! I was totally invested in the relationship and believed it, so when the climax came, nothing felt forced, too fast, or like it didn't deserve the payoff. Much of the story takes place in current day Ireland and feels a bit like the movie "Ghost" which was fun and unexpected.
The Bottom Line-
Longley is my "go-to" author for time-travel and historical paranormal romance. This book went fast and kept me intrigued the whole time. 4 1/2 stars
October 20, 2017
A ghost seer sets out to free a cursed ancient warrior from his other world prison. The setup was pretty interesting but the plot soon bogged down with too much information and trying to figure out how the world works; from the different dimensions and alternate timelines. It was easier to take the plot at face value.
I'm not sure how the main characters fall in love with each other, apart from the initial attraction. The way it was written seemed like the hero falls in love because of the condition of the curse. Its sad because there is so much potential with the book as I like the way it was written but the characters were just average.
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
I'm not sure how the main characters fall in love with each other, apart from the initial attraction. The way it was written seemed like the hero falls in love because of the condition of the curse. Its sad because there is so much potential with the book as I like the way it was written but the characters were just average.
Plot: 3/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
October 27, 2017
A bit inspired by a Knight in Shining Armor....but the book is downright annoying and frustrating. I really liked the hero....he is honorable, sweet, charming, a bit full himself in a endearing way. I think Oxford dictionary should adopt Regan as a synonym for annoying in their dictionaries....she would totally do it justice....I don't understand why it was so hard for a ghost whisperer with a family full of people with supernatural powers to grasp that the hero was really bound by a curse....I hated the evil fae...and I just couldn't connect with any of the characters except the hero.....the writing was good....the concept of the plot was interesting but Ms. Longley failed in her execution. Also the limited amount of romance bothered me....it was like 10% of the book. Disappointed but True to Highlander is one of my favorite time travel books.
October 31, 2017
Time Travel
I have never been a fan of stories involving time travel until I started reading books by Barbara Longley. I cannot say I believe in time travel, I can say Ms Longley makes the concept seem plausible. Especially if one could time travel into the arms of a handsome, well built Irish or Scottish warrior. Beam me up now, Scotty!
I am a fan of Ms Longley’s writing and in this book she has once again blended just the right amount of the magical, mystical and romance in perfect harmony to be a wonderful, delightful read. The romance in her book is not just about hot blooded passions as she includes the tender, whimsical side that makes love
lasting. I look forward to the other McCarthy sister’s stories!
I have never been a fan of stories involving time travel until I started reading books by Barbara Longley. I cannot say I believe in time travel, I can say Ms Longley makes the concept seem plausible. Especially if one could time travel into the arms of a handsome, well built Irish or Scottish warrior. Beam me up now, Scotty!
I am a fan of Ms Longley’s writing and in this book she has once again blended just the right amount of the magical, mystical and romance in perfect harmony to be a wonderful, delightful read. The romance in her book is not just about hot blooded passions as she includes the tender, whimsical side that makes love
lasting. I look forward to the other McCarthy sister’s stories!
November 4, 2017
4 1/2 "Boasty Ghosty" Stars!
I enjoyed this story a lot! Both main characters, Regan and Faelan were really likable, and the story was very entertaining.
"Hell have not fury like a woman scorned." Morrigan was bad shit crazy! Girl! He is just not that into you! Move on!
I'm so glad I have this book a go, I will definitely read more from this author! Happy reading!!
I enjoyed this story a lot! Both main characters, Regan and Faelan were really likable, and the story was very entertaining.
"Hell have not fury like a woman scorned." Morrigan was bad shit crazy! Girl! He is just not that into you! Move on!
I'm so glad I have this book a go, I will definitely read more from this author! Happy reading!!
December 3, 2017
Loved it
I haven't been able to put this book down. I will regret it in a few hours when I haven't had much sleep. I thought this a excellent well written fantasy/love story. The characters are strong and believable with a story line that keeps you turning the pages.
I haven't been able to put this book down. I will regret it in a few hours when I haven't had much sleep. I thought this a excellent well written fantasy/love story. The characters are strong and believable with a story line that keeps you turning the pages.
October 24, 2017
Book: Tangled in Time
By Barbara Longley
Series: The McCarthy Sisters, Book One
Release Date: October 24, 2017
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
Tartan Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Rating:🔥
Overall Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Present Day, County Meath, Ireland
This is the first book in the brand new McCarty Sisters series. Regan the eldest sister, can see and communicate with ghosts. Her job is to bring them to the light - as sometimes they are attached to objects or things. As they are so focused on these items are off the chosen path they are supposed to take. Regan puts them on the right path to heaven's gate. Regan’s twin younger sisters, Meredith and Grayce, have the power of premonition and precognition. They all have a trace of fae blood in them as well.
Regan McCarthy is the heroine of this story. Her ancestors have passed down the dreaded power of seeing ghosts. She received this unwanted gift from her Irish ancestry-so bam she an idea! To go back to Ireland: the source of the mystical newgrange monument in County Meath and return to sender!
Well she is hoping for some type of result or at least to get some kind of control over this power. As she did not want it! Felt it destroyed her life! All her boyfriends have left her thinking she's a freak and people in general think she's nuts! As people can’t see her ghosts. So as she converses with them being a ghost whisperer per say, human’s see her talking to air! They think she's schizophrenic or just plain cra cra crazy! She just wants some normal in her life, a nice boyfriend, maybe even get married and have a family. If only someone could accept who she really was!
At the Newgrange monument everything goes kind of haywire and she ends up in front of this swoon worthy eighteen hundred old Celtic warrior Fáelán. She think’s it one of her ghosts. When Fáelán explains he's been cursed and she's his wee miracle, Regan doesn't believe him. No, she is convinced he's just attached to something and she needs to bring him to the light. The problem is she's never felt an attraction to any of her ghosts before! It definitely can't go anywhere but it confuses Regan. Plus he has strange abilities where he can do things her other ghosts can't. It all very consuming and frustrating to Regan who likes everything black and white per say.
Fáelán had been an elite warrior for Fionn MacCumhaill until he met with an unfortunate accident! He was cursed by a jealous, spiteful, fae princess, Morrigan. This fae princess had pretended to be a mortal in the 3rd century. She had her wicked ways, gave him a concoction to become immortal without his knowledge. Fáelán flat turned her down to be her consort forever. So this vengeful fae cursed him and put him in this solemn veil for all of eternity!
The only way to break the curse is to fall in love. The all consuming, I would die for you kind of love. The problem is he can't be seen by anyone, but kin and only has, 5 days at the rare equinox and solstice where the veils lifts, realms merge and dimensions collide. It is his only opportunity to court and fall in love. Plus to break this wicked curse, he has to fall so deeply in love where he would forsake everything, even die for the one he loves. Except when this opportunity presents itself, he realizes both he and the woman he had fallen for are in mortal danger!
Fáelán would rather spend his eternity being imprisoned, than have his beloved Regan in any type of danger! Will this fae princess ever let him go? Will she go into a jealous tirade when she learns he has fallen in love. Will she murder Regan, Fáelán or both? You must read this phenomenal book, as there is a lot of shocking surprises in this spectacular novel!
Another beautiful story by Barbara Longley. She has the power of catching readers in her magic web and never letting go. This story I found really fascinating and a lover of everything Celtic I really loved Fáelán. He was charming, enchanting, honest, smart, honorable and drool worthy!
For those intrigued by science, there are many theories weaved into this story as well. So if you are a fan of either Albert Einstein or Harry Potter - it's a novel you definitely don't want to miss!
Another novel with breathtaking characters that are brought to life. The Irish settings in the present and past and fae Summerland are absolutely picturesque. I could see the brilliant colors of the sky and landscape so clearly in my mind. The plotting in this novel was absolutely mind blowing too. Some of this novel is hilarious where I loved the humor, but some heartbreaking scenes as well. So have the tissues on hand, you will need them. I also loved how the book explained the workings of time - in the past, present and future, plus how work and bind together. Absolutely captivating!
A spellbinding enchanting delightful novel that blew me away! I highly recommend this brilliant read that will stay with you long after you've read it. I know I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend as I absolutely loved “Tangled in Time” by Barbara Longley.
Disclaimer:I received this book from the publisher for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review, blog and promote through netgalley. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
Amazon Buy Link:
Amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/Tangled-McCart...
By Barbara Longley
Series: The McCarthy Sisters, Book One
Release Date: October 24, 2017
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
Tartan Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Rating:🔥
Overall Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Present Day, County Meath, Ireland
This is the first book in the brand new McCarty Sisters series. Regan the eldest sister, can see and communicate with ghosts. Her job is to bring them to the light - as sometimes they are attached to objects or things. As they are so focused on these items are off the chosen path they are supposed to take. Regan puts them on the right path to heaven's gate. Regan’s twin younger sisters, Meredith and Grayce, have the power of premonition and precognition. They all have a trace of fae blood in them as well.
Regan McCarthy is the heroine of this story. Her ancestors have passed down the dreaded power of seeing ghosts. She received this unwanted gift from her Irish ancestry-so bam she an idea! To go back to Ireland: the source of the mystical newgrange monument in County Meath and return to sender!
Well she is hoping for some type of result or at least to get some kind of control over this power. As she did not want it! Felt it destroyed her life! All her boyfriends have left her thinking she's a freak and people in general think she's nuts! As people can’t see her ghosts. So as she converses with them being a ghost whisperer per say, human’s see her talking to air! They think she's schizophrenic or just plain cra cra crazy! She just wants some normal in her life, a nice boyfriend, maybe even get married and have a family. If only someone could accept who she really was!
At the Newgrange monument everything goes kind of haywire and she ends up in front of this swoon worthy eighteen hundred old Celtic warrior Fáelán. She think’s it one of her ghosts. When Fáelán explains he's been cursed and she's his wee miracle, Regan doesn't believe him. No, she is convinced he's just attached to something and she needs to bring him to the light. The problem is she's never felt an attraction to any of her ghosts before! It definitely can't go anywhere but it confuses Regan. Plus he has strange abilities where he can do things her other ghosts can't. It all very consuming and frustrating to Regan who likes everything black and white per say.
Fáelán had been an elite warrior for Fionn MacCumhaill until he met with an unfortunate accident! He was cursed by a jealous, spiteful, fae princess, Morrigan. This fae princess had pretended to be a mortal in the 3rd century. She had her wicked ways, gave him a concoction to become immortal without his knowledge. Fáelán flat turned her down to be her consort forever. So this vengeful fae cursed him and put him in this solemn veil for all of eternity!
The only way to break the curse is to fall in love. The all consuming, I would die for you kind of love. The problem is he can't be seen by anyone, but kin and only has, 5 days at the rare equinox and solstice where the veils lifts, realms merge and dimensions collide. It is his only opportunity to court and fall in love. Plus to break this wicked curse, he has to fall so deeply in love where he would forsake everything, even die for the one he loves. Except when this opportunity presents itself, he realizes both he and the woman he had fallen for are in mortal danger!
Fáelán would rather spend his eternity being imprisoned, than have his beloved Regan in any type of danger! Will this fae princess ever let him go? Will she go into a jealous tirade when she learns he has fallen in love. Will she murder Regan, Fáelán or both? You must read this phenomenal book, as there is a lot of shocking surprises in this spectacular novel!
Another beautiful story by Barbara Longley. She has the power of catching readers in her magic web and never letting go. This story I found really fascinating and a lover of everything Celtic I really loved Fáelán. He was charming, enchanting, honest, smart, honorable and drool worthy!
For those intrigued by science, there are many theories weaved into this story as well. So if you are a fan of either Albert Einstein or Harry Potter - it's a novel you definitely don't want to miss!
Another novel with breathtaking characters that are brought to life. The Irish settings in the present and past and fae Summerland are absolutely picturesque. I could see the brilliant colors of the sky and landscape so clearly in my mind. The plotting in this novel was absolutely mind blowing too. Some of this novel is hilarious where I loved the humor, but some heartbreaking scenes as well. So have the tissues on hand, you will need them. I also loved how the book explained the workings of time - in the past, present and future, plus how work and bind together. Absolutely captivating!
A spellbinding enchanting delightful novel that blew me away! I highly recommend this brilliant read that will stay with you long after you've read it. I know I couldn't put it down! I highly recommend as I absolutely loved “Tangled in Time” by Barbara Longley.
Disclaimer:I received this book from the publisher for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review, blog and promote through netgalley. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
Amazon Buy Link:
Amazon.com:
https://www.amazon.com/Tangled-McCart...
September 21, 2017
After selling her business Regan MacCarthy decides to take a year to find her roots and herself in Ireland. Blessed (or cursed) with the ability to see spirits, Regan is naturally unperturbed when an ancient Irish Warrior, Fáelán approaches her at the mystical site, Newgrange. This has happened before, although none of the ghosts she's encountered in the past have made her heart pound like Fáelán.
Cursed by a jealous Sidhe princess, Fáelán has been looking for a cure for millennia -- a woman who can see his cursed state and who he can let himself love. He thinks he might have found her in Regan. The problem. She doesn't believe he's cursed, and he's running out of time.
So I absolutely love time travel romance, it's a thing. But because of that, I sometimes get the "I've seen it all" doldrums when reading. I didn't get that with this book. The twist was unique enough that I was intrigued and even better the time travel was rooted in quantum physics. I don't know about you, but I love me some science with my paranormal.
Fáelán was a unique hero. He was patient in the way that someone who has lived a really long time without going crazy was patient, but at the same time he also wasn't willing to dawdle. He knew what he wanted and he went for it. He was also super intelligent and educated. Something which surprised me because it was so different. He's the kind of hero that will appeal to fans of both alpha males and knights in shining armor... or leather as the case may be.
Regan was grounded in a way I didn't expect. She felt human to me. Real. Her reactions made sense and even when I was frustrated with her, I understood her reasoning. Her struggles with her powers was true to life and having a 'superpower' didn't magically make her life better.
The author's knowledge of Ireland shone through. I could almost smell the peat fires and taste the Harp. Her descriptions of the various places the leads visited could be used as part of a "Visit Ireland" promotional campaign.
In all, I really loved this time travel romance. Which is why I'm happy to give it:
Five Stars
*** I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed are my own.
Cursed by a jealous Sidhe princess, Fáelán has been looking for a cure for millennia -- a woman who can see his cursed state and who he can let himself love. He thinks he might have found her in Regan. The problem. She doesn't believe he's cursed, and he's running out of time.
So I absolutely love time travel romance, it's a thing. But because of that, I sometimes get the "I've seen it all" doldrums when reading. I didn't get that with this book. The twist was unique enough that I was intrigued and even better the time travel was rooted in quantum physics. I don't know about you, but I love me some science with my paranormal.
Fáelán was a unique hero. He was patient in the way that someone who has lived a really long time without going crazy was patient, but at the same time he also wasn't willing to dawdle. He knew what he wanted and he went for it. He was also super intelligent and educated. Something which surprised me because it was so different. He's the kind of hero that will appeal to fans of both alpha males and knights in shining armor... or leather as the case may be.
Regan was grounded in a way I didn't expect. She felt human to me. Real. Her reactions made sense and even when I was frustrated with her, I understood her reasoning. Her struggles with her powers was true to life and having a 'superpower' didn't magically make her life better.
The author's knowledge of Ireland shone through. I could almost smell the peat fires and taste the Harp. Her descriptions of the various places the leads visited could be used as part of a "Visit Ireland" promotional campaign.
In all, I really loved this time travel romance. Which is why I'm happy to give it:
Five Stars
*** I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed are my own.
September 16, 2017
I really enjoy Barbara Longley books; I find her writing style excellent. I think she has brilliant character development with great rapport and interaction between characters. Her previous historical books have the right amount of paranormal element for me woven through to make a stronger story. This book has too much paranormal for my liking and is more story woven through the fantasy. This is the reason I knocked one star off as I am not a fan of too much make-believe. I do recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading about fantasy worlds and the Tuatha Dé Danann.
Read
October 12, 2019DNF the audible at 25% due to repetitive phrases. The narration is well done. Maybe I'll come back to the ebook later. Setting aside for now.
July 18, 2019
Tangled in Time
The MacCarthy Sisters
Barbara Longley
K.C. Sheridan, narrator
Brilliance Audio, Oct 2017
9 hours, 41 minutes
Time-travel Romance
Purchased in Audible
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is so pretty! The old stones with the title coming up over them like the sun. Then the handsome couple above that with all the misty green filling in spaces like the mist the author is always spreading in the book. Yes, very eye-catching! And so appropriate for this book.
The story was really good. Regan MacCarthy comes to Ireland looking for enough magic to stop her gift. She sees ghosts and can communicate with them. Well, that’s not something just anyone can do. When people find out about it, they want her to help them with their grief and loss of loved ones and other sorts of problems with the dead. She gets overwhelmed with requests and demands for her gifts. She feels like her life isn’t her own. But her parents, especially her mother, have always said that that’s what she has her gifts for, to help others. But Regan wants her life back. She’s hoping to find enough magic in Ireland to help her still her gift. What she finds is magic alright, but not the sort she’s looking for. She finds a man out of time who’s cursed by a fae princess. He must find a woman who can see him, fall in love with her, and be willing to give his life for her. Faelan is 1800 years old, one of the mighty Irish warriors. Until he can prove he’s cursed and not just a “boasty ghosty” Regan is going along for a good time. They spend time together and find they really like each other. Faelan takes her to meet his family, who is in on what happened to him with his curse and all. They are really hoping that Regan is the woman to break the curse. She’s the only one he’s brought home to meet the family, his descendants.
Faelan and Regan have strong feelings for each other. But they both realize something about the curse. No matter how much they might feel for each other, there is still the part about Faelan’s being willing to give his life for her. And one must never forget the fae. Startled, but not surprised, they end up back in the 3rd century facing the fae princess and her secret that explains why she’s so resolute about holding onto her mighty Irish warrior. Regan and Faelan both come close to death before they find their freedom and happiness.
K.C. Sheridan narrated this story. In all the over nine hours of the story, I never was confused who was speaking or what was going on. She managed the Irish brogue and the deep southern drawl really well. I was amazed at first when she did it, but as the story went on it just seemed natural to hear her switch back and forth. Her voice was perfect as she seems to have a natural lilt to her voice and it made it almost seem as if there was music when there really wasn’t.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Time-travel romance and Irish tales. I’m just waiting for the next sister’s story.
The MacCarthy Sisters
Barbara Longley
K.C. Sheridan, narrator
Brilliance Audio, Oct 2017
9 hours, 41 minutes
Time-travel Romance
Purchased in Audible
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is so pretty! The old stones with the title coming up over them like the sun. Then the handsome couple above that with all the misty green filling in spaces like the mist the author is always spreading in the book. Yes, very eye-catching! And so appropriate for this book.
The story was really good. Regan MacCarthy comes to Ireland looking for enough magic to stop her gift. She sees ghosts and can communicate with them. Well, that’s not something just anyone can do. When people find out about it, they want her to help them with their grief and loss of loved ones and other sorts of problems with the dead. She gets overwhelmed with requests and demands for her gifts. She feels like her life isn’t her own. But her parents, especially her mother, have always said that that’s what she has her gifts for, to help others. But Regan wants her life back. She’s hoping to find enough magic in Ireland to help her still her gift. What she finds is magic alright, but not the sort she’s looking for. She finds a man out of time who’s cursed by a fae princess. He must find a woman who can see him, fall in love with her, and be willing to give his life for her. Faelan is 1800 years old, one of the mighty Irish warriors. Until he can prove he’s cursed and not just a “boasty ghosty” Regan is going along for a good time. They spend time together and find they really like each other. Faelan takes her to meet his family, who is in on what happened to him with his curse and all. They are really hoping that Regan is the woman to break the curse. She’s the only one he’s brought home to meet the family, his descendants.
Faelan and Regan have strong feelings for each other. But they both realize something about the curse. No matter how much they might feel for each other, there is still the part about Faelan’s being willing to give his life for her. And one must never forget the fae. Startled, but not surprised, they end up back in the 3rd century facing the fae princess and her secret that explains why she’s so resolute about holding onto her mighty Irish warrior. Regan and Faelan both come close to death before they find their freedom and happiness.
K.C. Sheridan narrated this story. In all the over nine hours of the story, I never was confused who was speaking or what was going on. She managed the Irish brogue and the deep southern drawl really well. I was amazed at first when she did it, but as the story went on it just seemed natural to hear her switch back and forth. Her voice was perfect as she seems to have a natural lilt to her voice and it made it almost seem as if there was music when there really wasn’t.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Time-travel romance and Irish tales. I’m just waiting for the next sister’s story.
September 22, 2017
I don't often read this genre of book these days, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a sweet story of love conquering all.
Regan has come to spend a year in Ireland to research her family history. She has inherited the gift of second sight, as have her two sisters Gracie and Meredith, although all have different talents. Regan can see ghosts, and is thoroughly weary of helping them pass over, and of bereaved relatives trying to get her to communicate with their departed souls. She is hoping that she will find relatives, or magic, that will close her off from it. She finds it very draining to have ghosts calling to her all the time.
She sneaks into an ancient site before dawn, hoping to channel some of the magical energy she hopes to find there. Instead, she meets Faelan; she believes he is just another ghost, but he tries to make her understand that he is just trapped in another dimension due to a curse placed on him. He tells her that at the equinoxes and solstices the dimensions collide, and he had five days back in the normal dimension, where he hopes to find a woman who would see him, and fall in love with him, and he would be prepared to give up his life for, then the curse could be broken.
Meanwhile, although Regan does not believe him, and refers to him as boastie ghostie, he offers to show her round the ancient sites that were ancient when he was alive, eighteen hundred years before. They get to know each other well, Regan still believes he is a ghost, but goes along with his story because she likes him.
When the solstice occurs she discovers his story is true, he is a living, breathing and very amorous man! And the excitement really begins! Suffice it to say that Regan is very brave, and does everything in her power to rescue her man. She, and he, undergo many trials and tribulations, and at the end he is back in the third century, and doesn't remember her! Magic prevails, of course, and we have a delightfully happy ending.
Barbara Longley must have kissed the Blarney Stone at some point, because the story makes very logical and compulsive reading. Loved it!
Regan has come to spend a year in Ireland to research her family history. She has inherited the gift of second sight, as have her two sisters Gracie and Meredith, although all have different talents. Regan can see ghosts, and is thoroughly weary of helping them pass over, and of bereaved relatives trying to get her to communicate with their departed souls. She is hoping that she will find relatives, or magic, that will close her off from it. She finds it very draining to have ghosts calling to her all the time.
She sneaks into an ancient site before dawn, hoping to channel some of the magical energy she hopes to find there. Instead, she meets Faelan; she believes he is just another ghost, but he tries to make her understand that he is just trapped in another dimension due to a curse placed on him. He tells her that at the equinoxes and solstices the dimensions collide, and he had five days back in the normal dimension, where he hopes to find a woman who would see him, and fall in love with him, and he would be prepared to give up his life for, then the curse could be broken.
Meanwhile, although Regan does not believe him, and refers to him as boastie ghostie, he offers to show her round the ancient sites that were ancient when he was alive, eighteen hundred years before. They get to know each other well, Regan still believes he is a ghost, but goes along with his story because she likes him.
When the solstice occurs she discovers his story is true, he is a living, breathing and very amorous man! And the excitement really begins! Suffice it to say that Regan is very brave, and does everything in her power to rescue her man. She, and he, undergo many trials and tribulations, and at the end he is back in the third century, and doesn't remember her! Magic prevails, of course, and we have a delightfully happy ending.
Barbara Longley must have kissed the Blarney Stone at some point, because the story makes very logical and compulsive reading. Loved it!
September 29, 2017
The beginning of this book hooked me immediately. What's not to love? Regan has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts and on a trip to Ireland meets Faelan who appears to be a ghost but is really trapped on the other side of a thinning veil and needs her help to break a curse.
The way the author described Ireland made me feel like I was standing there among the green hills and crisp air. I was immediately pulled in by the thought of two people becoming close but could not touch because of the veil, but the constant "wanting" thoughts became distracting from the story. I would have loved to see them become close friends, getting to know one another....and then have thoughts such as this. Then it's love and not lust.
Mid way through the book things really became unraveled and I found the book exciting at that point. I mean, when the mischievous Fae are involved, things can turn ugly quickly. It was well written and held my attention throughout those pages.
If I had to rate this book in sections, the beginning would get 5 stars, the getting to know one another would get 4 stars, the part of dealing with the Fae would get 5 stars and the ending would get 4 stars and my overall opinion of this read would be 4.5 stars which is why I rounded up.
I was given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
The way the author described Ireland made me feel like I was standing there among the green hills and crisp air. I was immediately pulled in by the thought of two people becoming close but could not touch because of the veil, but the constant "wanting" thoughts became distracting from the story. I would have loved to see them become close friends, getting to know one another....and then have thoughts such as this. Then it's love and not lust.
Mid way through the book things really became unraveled and I found the book exciting at that point. I mean, when the mischievous Fae are involved, things can turn ugly quickly. It was well written and held my attention throughout those pages.
If I had to rate this book in sections, the beginning would get 5 stars, the getting to know one another would get 4 stars, the part of dealing with the Fae would get 5 stars and the ending would get 4 stars and my overall opinion of this read would be 4.5 stars which is why I rounded up.
I was given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
December 14, 2017
I like this stories concept of having a cursed man that's lived hundreds of years waiting for true love.
Fáelán is a warrior, a type of special OPS, from the past cursed because of a capricious Fae that wanted him. He has spent years trapped in a kind of limbo where just a few people can see him.
Regan has powers she's inherited that let her see ghosts. She travels to the land of her Irish ancestors trying to rid herself of her gift.
When Regan meets Fáelán for the first time she thinks he is a ghost and she doesn't want to even talk to him. He convinces her bit by bit of what really happened to him and they slowly start falling in love. Needless to say, once the terms of the curse are met everything goes to hell.
At this point is when I start losing excitement over this book. There are many things that I cannot wrap my mind around. First, if Boann knew about him for so long why didn't she try to at least talk to him? I don't care who or what her mother is. Second, why once the curse was broken didn't Morrigan find another way to fuck him up but to go back on her word? And last but by no means least, how in the hell could Fáelán teleport modern things with him to his island? Plus he sounded Scottish to me.
Like I said I liked the concept but it went in a completely wrong direction for me.
Fáelán is a warrior, a type of special OPS, from the past cursed because of a capricious Fae that wanted him. He has spent years trapped in a kind of limbo where just a few people can see him.
Regan has powers she's inherited that let her see ghosts. She travels to the land of her Irish ancestors trying to rid herself of her gift.
When Regan meets Fáelán for the first time she thinks he is a ghost and she doesn't want to even talk to him. He convinces her bit by bit of what really happened to him and they slowly start falling in love. Needless to say, once the terms of the curse are met everything goes to hell.
At this point is when I start losing excitement over this book. There are many things that I cannot wrap my mind around. First, if Boann knew about him for so long why didn't she try to at least talk to him? I don't care who or what her mother is. Second, why once the curse was broken didn't Morrigan find another way to fuck him up but to go back on her word? And last but by no means least, how in the hell could Fáelán teleport modern things with him to his island? Plus he sounded Scottish to me.
Like I said I liked the concept but it went in a completely wrong direction for me.
February 5, 2019
This is a cute story of love across time and planes... Reagan, modern day psychic/clairvoyant/ghost whisperer goes to Ireland where she meets Faelan who she thinks is a ghost - he says he's not a ghost but subject to a curse and all he needs to do to break the curse is fall in love. As Reagan is the only person who has been able to see him for the best part of two thousand years - he is going to try his luck.
I don't know what I expected from this story but it was more than I bargained for... in addition to time travel there is the supernatural element and gods who love the power they have over others. The ideas about time not being continuous but rather fluid with different planes, past and future all existing together and different realities kind of blows my mind if I think about it too much... but I enjoy the challenge of it. At one point one if the characters asks how it's possible to tell the future if it hasn't happened already... mind blown. It's a crazy idea and yet there is lots of logic (and a summary of scientific evidence and thinking at the end of the book)...
This was a good read and I enjoyed it but the ideas around the tangling of time kind of twists my melon.
I don't know what I expected from this story but it was more than I bargained for... in addition to time travel there is the supernatural element and gods who love the power they have over others. The ideas about time not being continuous but rather fluid with different planes, past and future all existing together and different realities kind of blows my mind if I think about it too much... but I enjoy the challenge of it. At one point one if the characters asks how it's possible to tell the future if it hasn't happened already... mind blown. It's a crazy idea and yet there is lots of logic (and a summary of scientific evidence and thinking at the end of the book)...
This was a good read and I enjoyed it but the ideas around the tangling of time kind of twists my melon.
September 19, 2017
I received this book from netgalley for honest review of this book. Regan's ability to see ghosts is a gift inherited from her Irish ancestors who somewhere down the line had a baby with a Fae. She wants to give up her powers, so she travels to Ireland to harness the ancient magic that still permeates the mystical site of Newgrange in a hope to return them to the source. She meets Faelan who she thinks is another ghost. She doesn’t believe that he was one of Fionn MacCumhaill’s elite soldiers before being cursed by a resentful fae princess. She believes him when during the solstice when he becomes real. Once they pledge their love to each, it is suppose to break the curse but it ended up throwing both of them being thrown through time. This book was hard to put down. The characters and the beauty of the places she described are incredible. Makes you want to go and visit those places.
September 17, 2017
Regan's ability to see ghosts is a gift inherited from her Irish ancestors. In an attempt to return her powers to their source, she travels to Ireland to harness the ancient magic that still permeates the mystical site of Newgrange.She meets there Faelan.He was one of Fionn MacCumhaill’s elite soldiers before being cursed by a resentful fae princess. The book is amazing. When I started reading I couldn't put it down.Keep up the good work.I received this book from netgalley for honest review of this book.
October 24, 2017
Enchanting
What a pleasurable, enchanting read! TANGLED IN TIME by Barbara Longely is engrossing from start to finish, and the book is filled with excitement, heart stopping action and believable fantasy.
Ms Longley gives readers a reason to turn the pages using quick witted dialogue and presenting characters you love and a few you despise.
I never stopped rooting for Regan and Faelan; tears were shed and fears were heightened, but in the end, I knew all would be well.
Thank you, Ms Longley for this magical, enjoyable read!
What a pleasurable, enchanting read! TANGLED IN TIME by Barbara Longely is engrossing from start to finish, and the book is filled with excitement, heart stopping action and believable fantasy.
Ms Longley gives readers a reason to turn the pages using quick witted dialogue and presenting characters you love and a few you despise.
I never stopped rooting for Regan and Faelan; tears were shed and fears were heightened, but in the end, I knew all would be well.
Thank you, Ms Longley for this magical, enjoyable read!
November 16, 2017
Started out...
Slow but then about half way through, things good very interesting and I couldn't out the book down until I finished it! I love all the books by this author so far and I would love this series to continue with Grayce and Meridith. This is about a gifted woman starting over and trying to find a balance in life and she happens upon a ghost who is not actually a ghost but a man cursed by a fae princess and stuck in the void and only the woman can help him escape his fate
Slow but then about half way through, things good very interesting and I couldn't out the book down until I finished it! I love all the books by this author so far and I would love this series to continue with Grayce and Meridith. This is about a gifted woman starting over and trying to find a balance in life and she happens upon a ghost who is not actually a ghost but a man cursed by a fae princess and stuck in the void and only the woman can help him escape his fate
September 21, 2017
The book is interesting. I am not one that reads many time travel books. But the description of the book drew my interest. I like the characters and the depth of their development. The relationships are intriguing. The difference of a ghost and a cursed soul was well covered. The idea of having days of being alive in the current time was a unique idea. The book was a good read..
I received the book on NetGalley
I received the book on NetGalley
October 27, 2018
A greatly penned tale that brings to life the fantasy world of the Fae, ghosts and realms of other worlds. I loved the storyline and the characters. I also enjoyed reading of the landscapes and would love to visit them myself. This genre is not one that I usually read so it was a nice change of the norm for me.
November 14, 2017
Regan and Faelan.. The amount of research that had to be done for this book is astounding. these time crossed lovers really pull at the heart strings. they have every issue imaginable with curses, time travel ,losing their memories, and don't forget jealous witches, but once again love with a little bit of help always wins.
February 18, 2021
Interesting listen/read
I started this book when I started walking everyday. I would listen as I went. The voices at first were funny and the southern accent would come and go. The story was very interesting, but dragged a tad. It then picked up and I actually had to find out what was going go to happen so I read the end. I will get the next for my daily walk.
I started this book when I started walking everyday. I would listen as I went. The voices at first were funny and the southern accent would come and go. The story was very interesting, but dragged a tad. It then picked up and I actually had to find out what was going go to happen so I read the end. I will get the next for my daily walk.
September 25, 2017
Absolutely amazing story!! So funny. There were a little bit of sad parts but mostly happy adventure. I could not put this book down. I cannot wait until the next book comes out. I'm dying for the next part in this series
October 24, 2017
3.5 stars
I don't normally read sci-first books but took a chance. Not my favorite, was hard to follow which didn't keep my interest. The writing was good but you do need to be a fan of this type of book.
I received this book from Net Galley.
I don't normally read sci-first books but took a chance. Not my favorite, was hard to follow which didn't keep my interest. The writing was good but you do need to be a fan of this type of book.
I received this book from Net Galley.
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