What do you think?
Rate this book
Lairds of Dunkeld #2
The Highlander’s Challenge
Page Count: Approx 300 pages.
Can true love make a way for two lonely hearts?
A Determined Highlander…
Duncan MacConnoway, son of a powerful thane and used to getting his way in life, is desperate to wed the woman of his dreams. Her uncle, the wily Earl of Lochlann, demands that he fulfill three tasks that even Hercules would struggle to finish. Their love is all that lights his way through this dark labyrinth, that if only he can hang onto it long enough...
The wise woman…
Alina du Mas can see things that no one else believes, so she usually keeps her secrets to herself. Plagued with dark dreams, all Alina knows is that she has the power to find a way through the frightening future ahead. She just has to figure out how. In the meantime, she fights for a love that her Uncle Brien seems determined to deny, though he finally offers an impossible solution...
Deadly Family Secrets…
Alina and Duncan soon realize that her uncle’s plan may be even more devious than they thought — he may actually be setting Duncan up to fail. Worse still, Uncle Brien’s plot leads to a deadly situation that convinces Duncan that his death may have been the goal all along. With the help of the rest of her family, it is up to Alina to discover the truth about the people she holds most dear, and pray that it is not too late for her ain true love...
How can true love prevail against the iron will of a dangerous man?
Can Duncan find a way to achieve the impossible without help? Should Alina trust wise Aunt Aili, sister Amabel or Broderick with the information that could save her lover?
Can true love make a way for two lonely hearts?
A Determined Highlander…
Duncan MacConnoway, son of a powerful thane and used to getting his way in life, is desperate to wed the woman of his dreams. Her uncle, the wily Earl of Lochlann, demands that he fulfill three tasks that even Hercules would struggle to finish. Their love is all that lights his way through this dark labyrinth, that if only he can hang onto it long enough...
The wise woman…
Alina du Mas can see things that no one else believes, so she usually keeps her secrets to herself. Plagued with dark dreams, all Alina knows is that she has the power to find a way through the frightening future ahead. She just has to figure out how. In the meantime, she fights for a love that her Uncle Brien seems determined to deny, though he finally offers an impossible solution...
Deadly Family Secrets…
Alina and Duncan soon realize that her uncle’s plan may be even more devious than they thought — he may actually be setting Duncan up to fail. Worse still, Uncle Brien’s plot leads to a deadly situation that convinces Duncan that his death may have been the goal all along. With the help of the rest of her family, it is up to Alina to discover the truth about the people she holds most dear, and pray that it is not too late for her ain true love...
How can true love prevail against the iron will of a dangerous man?
Can Duncan find a way to achieve the impossible without help? Should Alina trust wise Aunt Aili, sister Amabel or Broderick with the information that could save her lover?
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2017
241 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 6, 2017
The Highlander's Challenge. Emilia Ferguson.
The second son of Dunkeld, Duncan, faces almost medievally mysterious challenges to win the hand of his beloved Alina.
The series is interesting, insofaras the women posses keen insight into the politics of the region and resources of the households.
When they set out to help their men, they are foolish enough to go without men or arms, and both sisters so far suffer for this foolishness.
Their resourcefulness saves them, but only barely.
Uncle Brien, such an unfeeling old codger in the first book, shows a secretly romantic side, and a failed love from his youth.
Birth and baby bearing abound.
Midwife magic and healing.
An action packed story with some mayhem, threatened rape, and a small touch of romance.
A good read if you are more fond of faux historical adventures than sweaty thrustings.
The second son of Dunkeld, Duncan, faces almost medievally mysterious challenges to win the hand of his beloved Alina.
The series is interesting, insofaras the women posses keen insight into the politics of the region and resources of the households.
When they set out to help their men, they are foolish enough to go without men or arms, and both sisters so far suffer for this foolishness.
Their resourcefulness saves them, but only barely.
Uncle Brien, such an unfeeling old codger in the first book, shows a secretly romantic side, and a failed love from his youth.
Birth and baby bearing abound.
Midwife magic and healing.
An action packed story with some mayhem, threatened rape, and a small touch of romance.
A good read if you are more fond of faux historical adventures than sweaty thrustings.
September 5, 2017
Emilia Ferguson takes on a journey with the Duncan MacConnaway and Alina Lochlann in The Highlander’s Challenge. I felt like I was going home. I met these two families in Heart of the Highlander and knew they had to have their story. And Emilia not only didn’t disappoint, she captured my heart.
Duncan and Alina want to be married but Alina’s uncle Lord Brien forbids until Duncan fulfils three (3) challenges. These challenges seem impossible but they are committed to fulfilling them.
The challenges contain death, life and love (besides Duncan and Alina). But who’s? Well, that’s what keeps you reading until 4 in the morning to find out. So get your book, tea (or coffee) and a cozy place to sit because you are not going to want to put this book down! Happy Reading!!!
Duncan and Alina want to be married but Alina’s uncle Lord Brien forbids until Duncan fulfils three (3) challenges. These challenges seem impossible but they are committed to fulfilling them.
The challenges contain death, life and love (besides Duncan and Alina). But who’s? Well, that’s what keeps you reading until 4 in the morning to find out. So get your book, tea (or coffee) and a cozy place to sit because you are not going to want to put this book down! Happy Reading!!!
September 5, 2017
This is the second book in this series and I quite enjoyed it. Siblings to the two previous characters share this story. A romance hoping to be a marriage is dependent on permission from her uncle. Tasks are set, seemingly impossible. Will he succeed and win his lady? Or will he perish trying?
There were many twists and turns in this novel, just when it seemed all will be fine something else happened.
An entertaining story, not my favourite genre so it was nice to dive in and give it a go.
There were many twists and turns in this novel, just when it seemed all will be fine something else happened.
An entertaining story, not my favourite genre so it was nice to dive in and give it a go.
September 6, 2017
Another hit! Emilia Ferguson has done it again. More love and adventures. The tension and the emotions can be felt by the reader. The descriptions are wonderful. The provide the reader a glimpse at the dress of lords and ladies as well as how they go about their daily lives. A page-turner, so see what happens next. Don't miss this one. I receive free books, but I always give a honest review.
October 11, 2017
A fairy tale set in the Scottish Highlands. With a 'prince' set on a quest to conquer the hand of his 'princess'. With some seemingly impossible tasks. There's no magic to help him on his quest. But there is a determined 'princess' who wants him to succeed and helps him wherever she can. Which brings her into trouble as well.
An adventure from begin to end, a good read! With the wonderful characters of part 1!
I received a copy and chose to review it.
An adventure from begin to end, a good read! With the wonderful characters of part 1!
I received a copy and chose to review it.
September 5, 2017
I liked the concept behind the plot and wanted very much to love the book but too much emphasis was placed on the lustful desires of Alina and Duncan that I soon found myself regretting ever opening the book.
The characters had so much more to offer and surely would have delivered the author a five star rating had she stuck with focusing more on the story and less on the lustful desires of the young couple in my opinion.
The characters had so much more to offer and surely would have delivered the author a five star rating had she stuck with focusing more on the story and less on the lustful desires of the young couple in my opinion.
September 5, 2017
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
A really lovely story. I enjoyed Duncan and Alina’s journey towards marriage. The book was filled with humor & secrecy as well as hope and love. I think that a part of Alina’s story has given a clue as to what may happen in the next book, but that’s just my opinion. I eagerly await more from this author.
A really lovely story. I enjoyed Duncan and Alina’s journey towards marriage. The book was filled with humor & secrecy as well as hope and love. I think that a part of Alina’s story has given a clue as to what may happen in the next book, but that’s just my opinion. I eagerly await more from this author.
September 9, 2017
This is how Highland Hotties are done! Thoroughly enjoyed. Looking forward to the next one in the series!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
September 5, 2017
I absolutely loved this story. Given what looked like an impossible three tasks to complete to obtain the hand of his love he doesn't refuse the challenge. Lots of twists and turns.
September 5, 2017
Highlanders Challenge by Emilia Ferguson is an excellent regency story. There were twists and turns, and adventure. The characters I like, they are believable. My opinion. Thanks
September 30, 2017
The Highlander's Challenge by Emilia Ferguson is the second book in her Lairds of Dunkeld Series. It continues the story of the three cousins at Lochlann. This story is the story of Alina but also has Amabel and Broderick continuing story intertwined. I enjoyed this book, but didn't feel that it was as good as book one in the series. At times I felt that I was always a step behind. I did think it was interesting that Duncan had to solve Brien's, Earl of Lochlann, riddle to get permission to marry Alina. I know Alina is considered a “seer” but I felt that the writing could have given a few more details to really understand what was going on. I did not have the “ah I understand now” feeling when the discovery was made; I had the “not sure how that came about” feeling instead. The storyline is good and the characters are developed. The book was fast paced and I did enjoy it, I would just have liked a few more details written in concerning what was being seen and how the conclusions came about. I did enjoy seeing/meeting Aili again. Such an interesting person. I am hoping that Chrissie's story is next and can't wait to read it. I received an ARC, but voluntarily read and gave my honest, fair review.
September 6, 2017
Duncan is at Lochlann Castle to help train their men, at Alina's uncle's request. He is also very much in love with Alina and they want to marry. Uncle Brein, became Laird at her parents death. She is a seer, very calm and very patient. She had a dream, everything was black and slowly her family was engulfed into it.
There is a lot of things happening in this story. The characters appear authentic and they love each other. The dialogue is believable and honest. The plot weaves all the little parts together into an interesting, even paced and well moving tale. I loved it. I especially enjoyed the interaction between the three girls, her cousin, her older sister and herself. They teased, giggled sewed and thoroughly enjoyed each other. It was with deep regret when Chrissie and Alina had to go home, they didn't want to separate. The author did an excellent job with this book. I have slowly come to the realization that she writes a high quality story. thank you for letting me read your book.
I received this ARC and voluntarily reviewed it.
There is a lot of things happening in this story. The characters appear authentic and they love each other. The dialogue is believable and honest. The plot weaves all the little parts together into an interesting, even paced and well moving tale. I loved it. I especially enjoyed the interaction between the three girls, her cousin, her older sister and herself. They teased, giggled sewed and thoroughly enjoyed each other. It was with deep regret when Chrissie and Alina had to go home, they didn't want to separate. The author did an excellent job with this book. I have slowly come to the realization that she writes a high quality story. thank you for letting me read your book.
I received this ARC and voluntarily reviewed it.
September 15, 2017
Lord Duncan MacConnoway wishes to finally wed his love Lady Alina du Maas and when he askes for her hand, her uncle Brien Lochlann, Laird of Lochlann Castle, denies him that unless he does a quest, getting three things that have been long lost to the family.
Lady Alina is a seer and fears for her love's life. But he goes and starts accomplishing every quest with her help, always returning to her. Until she fears she gave him a wrong answer and leaves to follow him and let him know.
In the end, all works out well for both, as he finally finishes the impossible quest, bringing answers to long lost questions and recovering his love.
It has a HEA, a wonderful book that I read and voluntarily review, having recieved an ARC. It's a great book for those of us that love Historical Romance fiction giving it a 10 (out of 5) star rating.
Lady Alina is a seer and fears for her love's life. But he goes and starts accomplishing every quest with her help, always returning to her. Until she fears she gave him a wrong answer and leaves to follow him and let him know.
In the end, all works out well for both, as he finally finishes the impossible quest, bringing answers to long lost questions and recovering his love.
It has a HEA, a wonderful book that I read and voluntarily review, having recieved an ARC. It's a great book for those of us that love Historical Romance fiction giving it a 10 (out of 5) star rating.
September 6, 2017
Alina was a ward of Lord Blaine MacNeil. Duncan MacConnaway was the second son of Laird MacConnay. Alina and Duncan were in love. When Duncan ask for her hand in marriage Lord MacNeil gave him three task to complete before the gave his permission. the story is filled with danger, suspense, twist, lust, and love. Will Duncan be able to complete the task Laird MacNeil has set forth? Will Alina be able to help? Will they find their happy ever after? Grab the book and read it to find out all the facts. I was enthralled the whole book.
Emilia once again took her talents to write and excellent book. The way she builds her characters to interact with the plot and each other is amazing. I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Emilia once again took her talents to write and excellent book. The way she builds her characters to interact with the plot and each other is amazing. I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
September 6, 2017
This story brings us back to Scotland to visit with everyone from the first story, Heart of a Highlander. This time around, we witness the Earl of Lochlann demand the completion of three tasks by Duncan MacConnoway in order to wed the Earl's niece Alina du Mas. Duncan will do anything to be able to claim Alina as his for all time but can he finish these crazy tasks? Alina fears that it's impossible because she can see things others cannot and she sees something dark and foreboding. Obstacles appear in the way of these two lovebirds at every turn in this wonderful story. Will they get their happily ever after? I voluntarily read an ARC of this book for review.
September 7, 2017
A softly compelling historical romance
I enjoyed reading this book. Alina & Duncan both feel undeniably drawn to each other when found anywhere near each other, and both are in high hopes of a happy ending joining them together soon. A combination of dangerous circumstances for both parties seems like it may take one or the other out of the equation, but can true love prevail though it all?
With romantic thoughts and dreams captured throughout the novel, even while managing to scout out Uncle Brien's long lost love, this book ranks high on the soft romance scale. If you or a fan of historical romance novels (minus the erotic edges many contain), then look no further.
I enjoyed reading this book. Alina & Duncan both feel undeniably drawn to each other when found anywhere near each other, and both are in high hopes of a happy ending joining them together soon. A combination of dangerous circumstances for both parties seems like it may take one or the other out of the equation, but can true love prevail though it all?
With romantic thoughts and dreams captured throughout the novel, even while managing to scout out Uncle Brien's long lost love, this book ranks high on the soft romance scale. If you or a fan of historical romance novels (minus the erotic edges many contain), then look no further.
September 25, 2017
This is dramatic, suspenseful, romantic and sweet. Duncan is brave, determined and charming. Alina is impulsive, naive and stubborn. They wish to wed, but her crazy uncle decides that Duncan has to figure a out a riddle, successfully do the tasks and get an answer for her uncle. Alina and Duncan are desperate to marry, and will do whatever it takes to make it happen. There's danger, intrigue, and a whole lot of drama. It's romantic and engrossing, and the creepy people are very creepy. The end is very romantic and sweet and satisfying.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
November 14, 2017
All Duncan and Alina want is be to wed but one thing stands in their way, Alina's Uncle Brien. When Duncan finally asks for Alina's hand he is sent on a series of what could only be impossible tasks. Then and only if the tasks are completed to satisfaction will they be given permission to finally became man and wife.
What are the tasks you ask? Well, sorry, to find out you must read the book. Believe me you won't be disappointed and it keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more and for it to never end!!
Come back to Dunkeld for yet another adventure with one of the handsome Lairds of Dunkeld.
What are the tasks you ask? Well, sorry, to find out you must read the book. Believe me you won't be disappointed and it keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more and for it to never end!!
Come back to Dunkeld for yet another adventure with one of the handsome Lairds of Dunkeld.
December 18, 2017
WOW! Just loving this series. I jumped a couple books and then decided that the writing and content was that great, I went back and purchased the rest of the series. I recommend you read in sequence, as the books are in some respects generational, and reading out of sequence, means that the family ties are not as clear.
The challenge, is like that set for the Knights of old, to win the hand of the Lady. These quests seem to place Duncan, the Lord and Alina, the Lady he wishes to marry, in frequent peril.
Yes, another enjoyable tale from Ms Ferguson.
The challenge, is like that set for the Knights of old, to win the hand of the Lady. These quests seem to place Duncan, the Lord and Alina, the Lady he wishes to marry, in frequent peril.
Yes, another enjoyable tale from Ms Ferguson.
April 5, 2018
I love this series! I received an advanced reader’s copy, and I wanted to share my thoughts on this book. Although you could read these in any order, I think it’s best to read them in order, because they do follow chronologically. Having met Alina and Duncan in the previous book, I already liked them both, and enjoyed their meeting and growing love. I loved how Duncan believed in Alina’s visions and respected and believed in her! I can’t wait for this saga to continue!
September 6, 2017
I enjoyed this sequel a great deal. The storyline was interesting and kept my attention. I was hoping to find out the answer to the un asked question. The crap Uncle Brien pulled for Duncan to marry Alina was unreal. I was really hating him during the story. But was glad when it all worked out in the end. I received a ARC of this story.
September 6, 2017
Historical romance where Duncan and Alina have fallen in love but Duncan is sent on a quest by Alina' s uncle Brien who seems to believe that Duncan cannot possibly solve the riddle that he has provided. Nice clean romantic suspense. I was given a copy of this book as a gift from the author. I am providing an honest review without obligation.
September 10, 2017
Emilia Ferguson did it again, with the second book in the serie.
Alina and Duncans book pulled me in from the beginning.
The story, characters and environment is well described. I could see me in there.
Can't wait for Emilia's next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Alina and Duncans book pulled me in from the beginning.
The story, characters and environment is well described. I could see me in there.
Can't wait for Emilia's next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 20, 2017
Exciting adventure
The story of Duncan (brother of Broderick MacConaway) and Alina ( sister of Broderick's wife). They met when the brothers came to Lochland so Broderick could meet and wed Amabel. Duncan fell in love at once but her Uncle Brien wasn't sure he was worthy of her so he so he gave Duncan 3 quests to prove himself.
The story of Duncan (brother of Broderick MacConaway) and Alina ( sister of Broderick's wife). They met when the brothers came to Lochland so Broderick could meet and wed Amabel. Duncan fell in love at once but her Uncle Brien wasn't sure he was worthy of her so he so he gave Duncan 3 quests to prove himself.
May 22, 2018
Another five star!
As with the other one, it is totally impossible to put down. I am looking forward to reading the remainder of this series pertaining ing to same family. I would recommend this series of books, especially to anyone who reads a series about a family. Looking forward following this family.
As with the other one, it is totally impossible to put down. I am looking forward to reading the remainder of this series pertaining ing to same family. I would recommend this series of books, especially to anyone who reads a series about a family. Looking forward following this family.
September 6, 2017
A story of the lengths a man will go through to make a woman his bride. What makes it better is the bride can help. Together they can fulfill the quests. A fun adventure. I received a complimentary copy and I am reviewing voluntarily.
September 7, 2017
I am happy to recommend this love story between Alina and Duncan in the Laird of Dunkeld series. Their characters are beautifully developed and I loved the challenge set forth by Alina's uncle that leads them to discover past secrets and ultimately brings them happiness!
September 9, 2017
I enjoyed this story it has everything you could want suspense,love, loyalty ,challenges. Well written story that had me wanting to know what next and would Duncan MacConnoway and Alina du Mas get a happy ending. I was gifted a copy and I am reviewing it.
September 13, 2017
This is the second book in this series and I enjoyed it as much as the previous one. You can read this one first if you don’t mind a minor spoiler. An excellent romance/suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. My strong woman is here but sometimes she almost makes mistakes.
October 12, 2017
This is a very goo book. It is #2 in a three part series. I am on #3 right now. I highly recommend anything Emilia Ferguson writes. Her books have romance, adventure and conflict.
I have recieved all three
ARC copies .
I have recieved all three
ARC copies .
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews