A Secret Scottish Christmas

Agents of the Crown #4

by Regan Walker

Spies and Scots and Shipmasters, oh my!

Scotland 1819 ~ Twin brothers Nash and Robbie Powell of Powell & Sons Shipping, London, sail with their fellow Agents of the Crown to Scotland for a secret celebration of Christmastide, a holiday long frowned upon by the Scottish Kirk. But more than Christmas is being kept secret. The two brothers have accepted an assignment from the Home Secretary Lord Sidmouth to ferret out a fugitive fomenting rebellion among the Scots.

Aileen Stephen, the only daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder, had to be clever, devious and determined to gain her place in the family business. She succeeded to become a designer of highly coveted ships. One night, a man’s handsome face appears to her in a dream. When two men having that same face arrive on a ship full of Londoners, Ailie wonders what her second sight is telling her. Is the face she saw a portender of the future, a harbinger of danger, or both? And which of the two Englishmen is the one in her dream?

Older than Nash by a mere five minutes, Robbie has always been protective of his twin. When he realizes Nash is attracted to the sister of their Scottish host, he thinks to help matters along. But Nash wants no help from his brother, not where Ailie Stephen is concerned because Robbie is attracted to the girl himself!

Two brothers vie for the affection of the Scottish lass but only one stirs her passion. Which one will it be? And what will she do when she learns they are spies?

Genres: Historical Romance, Christmas, Romance, Espionage, Historical Fiction

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2017

About the author

Signup for Regan's Newsletter and get all the news, new releases and deals... and you might win a book! http://www.reganwalkerauthor.com/

Award-winning, bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romantic historical fiction. Also an avid reader/reviewer of historical love stories set in the 19th century or earlier. Author website: www.reganwalkerauthor.com. Historical Romance Review blog: reganromancereview.blogspot.com.

My stories will sweep you away, I promise. They are historically authentic with real historical figures. I do hundreds of hours of research for each book.

Praise for THE AGENTS OF THE CROWN:

“Ms. Walker has the rare ability to make you forget you are reading a book…the characters become real, the modern world fades away and all that is left is the intrigue, drama and romance.” ~ Straight from the Library

RACING WITH THE WIND: "... a superb historical romance, filled with passion, political intrigue, and a worthy hero and heroine!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Cynthia Wright

AGAINST THE WIND: "A fabulous tale with exciting twists and turns reflecting a little known event in England's history and, at its heart, a wonderful love story." ~ NY Times Bestselling author Shirlee Busbee

WIND RAVEN: “A salty, sweeping, evocative tale of romance on the high seas—and a good old-fashioned love story that will keep you up far, far past your bedtime. So, reach for the coffee. Brava for Regan Walker!" ~ NY Times Bestselling author Danelle Harmon

THE MEDIEVAL WARRIORS series:

“This series captures the Medieval era perfectly, creating the true sensation of traveling back in time to experience epic, riveting love stories that ignite the imagination. Beautifully written, perfectly paced and action-packed with passionate love affairs... What more can you ask?” ~ The Book Review

THE DONET TRILOGY:

“The Donet Trilogy has everything you’d ever want in historical romance. From spies, smugglers and pirates to masked balls and opulent palaces—what more could you ask for? Regan has created an immersive world packed with well-researched historical detail and a cast of characters that you really grow to love.” – Reading in Wellies

Reviews

[Liette Bougie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Ms. Walker delivers a wonderful story. While this one isn’t as heavy on the action as some of her other books, there’s still more than enough to please everyone. Of course, romance is at the rendezvous and not only for the two main characters but for the secondary ones as well – it makes for some fun repartee here and there. And speaking of her secondary characters, it’s been very nice to revisit those who were once main characters in Agents of the Crown, The Donet Trilogy and her Holiday Stories, in particular Muriel, The Grand Countess (probably the best matchmaker around).

Of note, the care she brings in incorporating historical facts is to be commended. Ms. Walker obviously spent countless hours on research to get her facts as right as possible, but never did I feel as if I’ve been attending a history class – God knows those can be pretty dry at times.

All in all, A Secret Scottish Christmas is, indeed, perfect for the holiday season.

[Janice Hougland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This historical romance has definitely put me in the holiday mood and I’m so glad it was my first holiday story this year! Ms. Walker’s lovely writing was so descriptive that I felt at times like I was right there in the story, enjoying sledge (sleigh) rides in the snow, collecting greens to decorate our home and eating delicious Scottish fare at the dinner table. I use photos of Scottish Castles as my desktop wallpaper and my favorite is one of Dunnottar Castle in Winter, where our hero and heroine (Aislie) pledge their troth and marry. I especially like that the hero is a part of the Powell family about whom we’ve heard much in this author’s Agents of the Crown series of stories. A wonderful story to read at this time of year and not to be missed!

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker has once again, created a story of family, secrets, spies, romance and the magic of Christmas in Scotland. I was pulled into this story from page one forward.  I totally loved twins, Nash and Robbie Powell of Powell & Sons Shipping, London, as they set sail with their fellow Agents of the Crown from England to Scotland. Aileen Stephen, aka Ailie, the Scottish daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder. She is clever, devious and determined to gain her place as a designer of highly coveted ships for her family business. Nash and Robbie both vie for Ailie's attention, but only one will win her heart. 


Fast paced, written with engaging and memorable characters. The plot is simply mesmizing, captivating,  and flows seamlessly and effortlessly.  Ms. Walker brings Scotland, shipbuilders and spies to life on the pages of this outstanding holiday romance set mostly in Scotland.  

A definite must read for any historical romance fan and any fans who enjoy holiday read with a HEA, some suspense,  a few surprises, some mystery and the return of other beloved characters from the highly anticipated AGENTS OF THE CROWN series. While, book 4, it can be read as a stand alone.  I absolutely love the characters and the storyline.  Fantastic and mesmizing romance.


Rating: 5

Heat rating: Mild

Reviewer: AprilR 

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Walkers fourth installment of the Agents of the Crown Series is a delightful read. Ms. Walker masterfully merges meticulous detail, lovely characters, and a compelling plot. For those of us who’ve enjoyed the prior books we get to spend time with other much adored characters. All while being pulled forward in a story that has romance, intrigue, and Christmas spent in Scotland. This book can be read as a stand-alone or part of the series. Either way this lighthearted story is yours to enjoy and I highly recommend you do.

[Frankie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the next instalment of Walker’s hugely enjoyable and highly acclaimed “Agents of the Crown” Series which tells the stories of a group of Governmental Agents as they risk their very lives, not just for their country but for love too. As always Walker stuns with her gift for story-telling, she magically entwines historic fact and fiction to create a thought-provoking sensual romance, one that will stay with you for a very long time. A secret Scottish Christmas brings together all our heroes and their spouses and takes them to Scotland for Christmas, this time we are introduced to the handsome as sin and charming Powell twins; Robbie and Nash.

This is wonderful! The characters are full-bodied and meticulously drawn up, and instantly captivating. Ailie is a real tomboy. She has this great mind and she is so very talented and resourceful. Walker has done a wonderful job at separating the twins', personalities. Nash being the younger and more serious twin, he is thoughtful and kind eager to learn and yet below that serious book-loving, designer you sense a volcano that is about to erupt. Whereas Robbie has already erupted, his is wilder than his brother, he is the stereotypical rake, charming, arrogant and playful but below all the bluster he has a heart of pure gold and highly protective of his twin brother.

The Secret Scottish Christmas is educational as well as romantic, the romance between Ailie and the twin she finally ends up with is endearing and loving, and proves that no matter the differences love of a good person can triumph. If you like a bit of a love triangle, handsome spies and artistic heroines, secrets, traditions and romance all wrapped up with a big Christmas bow, then this is the book you need to read.

Full review over at Chicks Rogues and Scandals
https://chicksroguesandscandals.wordp...

[Maria Dariotis · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Powell brothers are travelling with their family to Scotland for Christmas. They’re mixing a bit of spy business along with the Christmas holiday. The mission is to apprehend the fugitive that’s riling the Scots.
Aileen Stephan is the sister to William Stephan and the driving force behind the ship designs at the family ship building business. Things get interesting when both the brothers compete for Aileen’s affection.

Once again Regan Walker has a richly detailed story with beautifully scenic landscapes, historical information intertwined with the story. I loved revisiting with the previous Agents and their wives. Lots of intrigue some spying a love triangle a matchmaking Countess will keep you entertained. A Secret Scottish Christmas is the perfect story you won’t be disappointed!

I received a copy from the author for my unbiased opinion.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Secret Scottish Christmas is the fourth installment from the Agents of the Crown series by Regan Walker. I have not read the others in the series yet and did not feel like I was missing anything that had happened previously. I will definitely have to go back read them though, because I loved this book! It is magical, sweet, and romantic.
Great read!
5 plus stars.
I received this book from the author, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Karen Llanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Secret Scottish Christmas was a wonderful book to read. The love among the family is beautiful. Of course the Powells are a wonderful family to like. I just loved all the characters and their talents. Regan is amazing in the research she puts in her books.

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[Cyndith Hoelscher · Rating 5 out of 5]

    
A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS by Regan Walker is an enchanting novel that has whisked her readers into the romance and magic of an intriguing, but inspirational, family Christmas.  As a sequel to her Agents of the Crown series, she has pulled readers into a story of a close family of spies with intrigue, shipping, dangerous secrets, historical significance and of course a true romance that reminds us that love cannot be denied. 

Twin brothers, Robbie and Nash Powell of Powell & Sons Shipping of London embark on a holiday voyage from London to the quiet, wintery wonderland of Scotland, with her castles and inevitably a ghost or two who remind us of the hardships of the poor, including those who fought to make an oppressive life better.  Aileen Stephen, aka Ailie, immediately gains the interest of the identical twins who have a wicked propensity for using their identical looks to deceive people. But, intuitive Ailie, is watching both of them, certain that the Powell brothers are much more than they seem. Walker balances well-researched history with the dangers of the political climate, seamlessly with a romantic story that has readers guessing until the end about the fate of the beloved characters. 

As a fan of true historical fiction, I particularly enjoyed the contrasts between the Anglican Church and the Presbyterian in the celebration of Christmas.  The mixed-belief families harmoniously share their faith and their traditions, complete with kissing boughs, which enriched the story. The traditions, the faith and the love set in a wintery, Scottish seaport has me longing for the holidays with my own family. It is truly an inspirational, loving story with a thrilling plot.  

[Aleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

A love triangle set during the Christmas season, A Secret Scottish Christmas by Regan Walker, provides a sweet romance with the Powell twins vying for the affection of a fair Scottish lass.

I’m not normally a fan of a love triangle, but there really wasn’t any other way to describe the romance aspect. I kind of felt sorry for Aileen for the tough task of choosing which twin she was compatible with. Both twins had their charming aspects. Robbie, the rogue and Nash, the grounded one.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that both Robbie and Nash are spies. It would help to know that this series is set around characters who have all been spies at one time or another. With the pretense of a family holiday vacation in Scotland, the Powell twins set out to capture a wanted man. Aileen is the unexpected boon and both brothers start a little competition.

As with all of Regan Walker’s stories, I always look forward to learning something. She always incorporates part of history that takes place around time frame of the story. The subplot being the aftermath of the Peterloo Massacre which ultimately leads the Powell brothers to Aileen and towards the end is the cause of the contention. Despite the serious undertones, the lighthearted family vacationing in the countryside was a nice glimpse into the holiday traditions of both the Scottish and English.

If you’ve not read the previous stories in this series, fear not, for this can be read as a standalone. While most of the past characters are in this story, there are no real series spoilers. One can easily enjoy the story, since it’s really focused on the Aileen and her twin admirers. Reading this, I felt like I was a guest myself at the party. At times, the story seemed a bit slow and in want of some action, but I could totally appreciate it regardless. It was pretty obvious about who Aileen would end up with, but it was still fun to read about how she would come to her decision.

Especially looking forward to reading the next installment.

[Liz Redmond Lloyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Secret Scottish Christmas by Regan Walker
4th book in the Agents of the Crown Series

Regan takes us to Arbroath, Forfarshire, Scotland in December of 1819. The Agents of the Crown are gathering for a secret celebration of Christmas and the New Year with their longtime friends; William Stephen, Lady Emily Stephen and family.

Unknown to all, the Powell twins are also there on a secret mission for the Crown. Nash and Robbie Powell never expected the attraction they would have to Aileen Stephen, unmarried sister of William Stephen. A tender love story begins. Who will win Ailie’s affection?

We learn the history of the traditions of the Scottish and English celebrations of Christmas and New Year and of the current discord between the Crown and those “fomenting rebellion”.

What a wonderful time these friends had celebrating the holidays together. At times I felt I was there with them enjoying it all.

I do recommend reading the entire Agents of the Crown series. For me it was enjoyable knowing all who shared in the celebration. I look forward to the next book in the series.

Be sure to go to Regan Walker’s Pinterest page, she creates one for each of her books as she does her research.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Secret Scottish Christmas begins with a group of people traveling from England to Scotland to celebrate Christmastide, albeit a secret celebration, with friends. Once the group arrives in Scotland, it doesn’t take long for the Powell twins, Nash and Robbie, to notice not only Aileen’s beauty, but also her fiery spirit.

As the story progresses, the twins put their secret plan into motion, in hopes of making their mission a successful one. However, as the twins get to know Ailie, it becomes apparent that one is more enamored than the other when said twin starts questioning their mission altogether.

A Secret Scottish Christmas is a great addition to the Agents of the Crown series. Ailie is a wonderfully written character. She is intelligent and feisty, but also has a loving heart for those she holds dear. The Powell twins were wonderfully written as well. I love the fact that they love each other as you would expect, but what drew me in was their sense of independence. Regan Walker did a phenomenal job of making each one of them their own person with their own identities. I also loved that Ailie picked up on their nuances that were written so brilliantly. Walker has also, once again, woven actual historical events into her story seamlessly and built a world that you can vividly see in your mind. Whether it is the sound of a dog barking, feeling the wind in your face as you sail away or seeing a landscape covered in new snow, you will find yourself noticing all of the details she meticulously sets for us to truly feel as if we are a part of. Reading Regan Walker’s books is, at least for me, like watching a movie. You are swept into her world from the very beginning and you truly do hate for it to end. Added to all of this the fact that we get to see so many couples from previous books throughout the entire story makes it one of my favorites of everything she has written. If you’re a fan of historical romance, you will most definitely love A Secret Scottish Christmas. There is a beautifully developed romance, political intrigue and such well developed characters that you’ll swear this is your favorite as well….until the next one. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very well done!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

August: Following in their family’s tradition of doing jobs for the Home Office, twins Robbie and Nash Powell are in Manchester to monitor the peaceful crowd’s reaction to a speech against high taxes on ordinary citizens without representation. They were surprised when the government troops attacked the commoners in attendance. Nash is injured trying to protect a woman and child.

December: Robbie, Nash, their brothers and sisters-in-law, along with some other friends sail to Scotland to spend the holiday season with William and Emily Stephen and Will’s sister Aileen (Ailie). The Powell family has a shipping company and the Stephens family build ships. But are the twins on holiday or working for the government? The Scots are not pleased over the new laws.

Ailie works with her brother at the ship yard and designs ships. She recently dreamt of an unknown dark-haired man who sees into her soul. Her dreams often foretell events. Ailie is unsure about the English visitors, but has prepared for their more celebratory Christmas. She is looking forward to the Hogmanay celebrations at her grandfather’s home.

As the guests arrive, Ailie notices the twins and their dark hair as in her dream. They both notice her and compete for her attention. But only one twin attracts her, and she is able, most of the time, to tell them apart. Falling in love with an Englishman was not in her plan and there are bumps along the way to a HEA.

This book is more complex than I’ve written as I hate to spoil a wonderful plot. You’ll have to read it to find out if Ailie gets a HEA and with whom. Thanks to Regan Walker for giving me this ARC. No one influenced this review. I loved this book.

[Barbara Mccarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Christmastime read ! It will put you in the mood for an old fashioned Christmas celebration with kith + kin for sure. Twins Robie + Nash are gorgeous, and smart and although they are identical physically, they have very different personalities. Use to being mistaken for each other they have honed that to a fine point in their undercover work as spies for the Crown. They are invited to spend Christmas with the wonderful Powell family at their country estate which is the perfect rouse for looking for a man wanted by the Crown in that very area. This draws them to town, taking turns posing as each other to gain information on his whereabouts and it won't be gotten without intrigue and danger. When they arrive at the Powell's they are stunned by the unexpected pleasure of meeting Ailene, the beautiful sister of their friend with fiery red hair and a bit of a sharp tongue, with a delightful Scottish brogue. They are each smitten and as they have often done in the past, the game is on, to compete for her attention in a horse drawn sleigh as they venture into the woods to look for Christmas tree and a yule log and get separated, but which twin is it that steals the kiss ? And which one will fall in love and wish to make her his wife? This is a well researched novel for the facts of the era, so well done that I felt as if I were there with them enjoying the merriment by the Yule log burning in the hearth waiting for the goose to be done cooking that filled the home with wonderful aromas. Oh yes, there is a Dowager Countess there who is a well known matchmaker sizing them all up to ply her talents on. There is much to love in this book and I'll not give any spoilers away. You will just have to read it and enjoy the adventure like I did. I was gifted a copy and am so happy I was.
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[Lesia Chambliss · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful addition to Agents of the Crown series. What I love about book series is revisiting favorite characters from previous books, and this series has given me many favorites. What I love about Regan Walker is her dedication to research and knowing how much detail to include in the story keeping it rich, passionate and never boring. Her use of real inns, taverns, churches, streets, newspapers and ships in this story and her other books are what sets her apart. Her characters are charming, witty, full of life, no wilting flowers here! This book is full of Scottish tradition, which I knew little of, and a side of English tradition thrown in, but in secret of course, since Christmas is outlawed in Scotland. Since this story takes place over Christmas and the new year there are lots of fun winter activities that take place with the families, and even a few adventures to keep things really interesting. This really is a fun, beautiful holiday Scottish romance to read and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I was gifted this copy to read.

[Vielka · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Secret Scottish Christmas ( Agents of the Crown, # 4) By Regan Walker

My Thoughts :

This wonderful story takes place in Scotland with incredible and adventurous Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations. It revolves around Robbie and Nash, who are not only trying to win the love of Aileen, but are also in a mission to find a fugitive that is instigating a rebellion among the Scots.
Among the many interesting characters you’ll meet are Aileen Stephen and part of her family, who own a shipbuilding company; the Powell brothers, who are also in the same line of business as Aileen (Powell and Sons Shipping) and the great Muriel, the dowager Countess of Claremont, who plays the lovable matchmaker. Two of the Powell brothers are identical twins (Robbie and Nash) and as they arrive Scotland, Aileen feels strongly attracted to the them, who in turn reciprocate feelings towards her.

Get ready because Robbie and Nash are coming with their brothers and sisters-in-law, to celebrate in grand style. The breakfast, lunch and dinner menus are great! This is a great Christmas adventure and a wonderful Hogmanay.

I invite you to curl up with a blanket, read this great adventure and find out which of the identical twins, Robbie or Nash, will win the heart of Aileen.
I also want to thank Regan Walker for this great trip to Scotland in 1819, during the celebrations of Christmas and Hogmanay.

[V · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown agents , handsome brothers , a female naval architect, in an era of kings and battled a winter vacation in Scotland and the joy of finding a forever kind of love all these and much more in this wonderful story written by one of my favorites Regan Walker . Take a trip into the imagination twined historical regency era

[Charlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a wonderful interesting book! Wonderful characters and intriguing and interesting storyline. This book will capture you on the very first page, you will not want to put it down. Ailie is my favorite character in this book. She is a woman ahead of her time. Thank you Regan Walker for another wonderful read. You never cease to amaze me with your writing! A must read!

[Dee Deacon Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Walker has proven yet again how her exceptional writing skills and substantial research makes a 5 star read. A Secret Scottish Christmas is written in multiple views (not just the hero and heroine); this slight twist that makes it highly entertaining.
Spy for the Crown, Nash Powell barely survived an uprising and that was only due to his twin brother, Robbie. Now the brothers have been tasked with bringing in a Scotsman charged with sedation and what better cover than sailing with one’s brothers and their wives to Scotland for Christmas. What neither considers is the alluring Scotswoman they encounter or that one of them may have a change of heart. Can one convince the other that their way is right?
Aileen Stephens, like female relatives before her, has the second sight and like her male relatives she has a love of designing ships. When English visitors arrive to spend Christmas with her family, Ailie is taken aback by the appearance of two men who resemble the man in her latest vision. While trying to understand the meaning of her sight she has another where blood is shed. As Ailie gets to know her visitors can she decipher the true meaning of her visions and when she does will she be able to follow her heart or will a betrayal be too much?

[Pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rated 3.5!

Aileen Stephen loves working in the shipbuilding business with her family. She has even designed a ship she wants to build for herself one day, something she saw in a dream. Aileen's has had many dreams that have become reality, so when she dreams of a mysterious man in danger, she knows she will see him someday. Someday arrives faster than she expected. When her brother's guests arrive for the holidays, Aileen finds him among them. Only problem is that there are two of him; he has a twin. However will Aileen discover which one is at risk before it's too late?

Nash Powell and his twin Robbie are in Scotland not only to celebrate the Christmas holiday, but also working as spies for the Crown. There job is to locate a fugitive and bring him back in. Both men are attracted to Aileen, but it's clear Aileen has eyes only for Nash. Still, Robbie won't give in so easily. What will happen when Aileen learns the truth about the twin she has fallen for?

A SECRET SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS is a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. I loved the idea of two identical twins fighting over one woman. Being centered around the holidays only added to this joyful read. Nash and Robbie have no idea the fight they are in for with Aileen. May the best man win? Nah, just kidding. Sort of. Cannot wait to read Ms. Walker's next novel in the AGENTS OF THE CROWN series.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Regan Walker has flawlessly enveloped us in a magical Christmas in Scotland. Few can match her physical descriptions of the breathtaking snow covered landscape, the smells of the Scottish and English cuisine, the wood burning in the fireplaces and the greenery filling the house with pine and holly. There's even an Orangerie where Emily grows pineapples🍍, what a holiday treat, your mouth salivates thinking of the sweetness.
Our friends from previous Agents Of The Crown volumes, including the loveable matchmaker, Muriel, the dowager Countess of Claremont, come to join the Stephen family for Christmastide. Her characters are charming, the women are strong and intelligent, the men are loving and powerful . But we do have antagonists that keeps the Powell twins busy...when they aren't pursuing the beautiful Ailie.
Fix a cup of cocoa or tea (I love the bergamot in Earl Grey) and pay a call, enjoy the aromas, the scenery and our charming friends. Nollaig Chridheil🌲

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spies and Scots and Shipmasters everything you need for a good read add more than a dash of romance & it’s a very good read.

The story takes place in December 1819 mainly in Scotland. Twin brothers Nash and Robbie Powell of Powell & Sons Shipping, London, sail with some of their family for a secret celebration of Christmastide, a holiday long frowned upon by the Scottish Kirk. But more than Christmas is being kept secret. The two brothers have accepted an assignment from the Home Secretary Lord Sidmouth to ferret out a fugitive allegedly fomenting rebellion among the Scots.
Aileen Stephen, the only daughter of the Aberdeen shipbuilder, had to be clever, devious and determined to gain her place in the family business. She succeeded to become a designer of highly coveted ships. She sometimes has dreams, which fore tell the future. One night, a man’s handsome face appears to her in a dream. When two men having that same face arrive on a ship full of Londoners, Ailie wonders what her second sight is telling her. Older than Nash by a mere five minutes, Robbie has always been protective of his twin. When he realizes Nash is attracted to Ailie, he thinks to help matters along.
Oh what a read, I love the author’s books they are so well written & adhere to actual events which for me is the icing on the cake. The characters are very well portrayed but it’s the descriptions that raise her books above the parapet. This book could well be read as a stand alone book & as such is a very good read but when read as part of the series it’s a very very good read. The pace is very good but the humour it contains has you chuckling, I almost want to go out & buy some kale! I look forward to at least one more story about the Powells

My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of rich descriptions of the surroundings, the food and the characters makes you feel you are there in Scotland in this wonderful story. Although part of a series, this book can be read as a standalone. What happens when twin English spies go to Scotland to track down a fugitive? Well a lot! Twin brothers Robbie and Nash Powell set out with family to visit Scotland to spend the holidays. It was a great opportunity because they also had a mission for the crown to find a radical and bring him back to England.. Their host's sister in law Aileen Stephens immediately got the attention of both brothers who began competing for her affection! But Nash actually develops true feelings for Aileen the more time he spends with her.each day. What is fascinating is that Aileen has been having bad dreams about one of the brothers being harmed and does not know which one nor what is truly happening. Balancing intrigue, emotions and a wonderful Christmastide Holiday will have you turning the pages to find out what happens.. I now want to go back and read all the series and actually all books by this author.. I recommend you do as well!!

[Tommie Mead · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Splendid Christmas Adventure in Scotland

I loved this Christmas story, bringing English Christmas traditions to Scotland. It was so fun following the English brothers, their wives and the roguish identical twins around Arbroath, Scotland, becoming fast friends with the Scots.
Ms Walker has again regaled us with her knowledge of the history and the landscape of Scotland and England of the time. The political unrest of the lower classes was interesting and played a big part in setting the scene for another highly entertaining Agents of the Crown event.
I found Ms Walker's Pinterist board for this book an excellent glimpse of her ideas of visuals for her characters and the real historical figures and places used in the book.
The meshing of fiction and true history makes a lively, fun, entertaining and enlightening read. I can't wait to see what happens to the last single brother, Robbie in the future of the series as well as the follow up on the happily married couples.
I am happy to recommend The Secret Scottish Christmas for a splendid Christmas adventure in Scotland.

[Debbie Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a bit of a love triangle, handsome spies and artistic heroines, and secrets. Twin brothers Nash and Robbie of Powell and Sons Shipping and their fellow agents for the Crown are having a secret Christmas in Scotland, but more than Christmas is being kept secret. They have accepted an assignment from the Home Secretary Lord Sidmouth to spy and ferret out a rebellion among the Scots.
Aileen Stephen, the only daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder. She is clever, devious and determined to gain her place in the family business and with her talents she’s become the designer of highly coveted ships. In her dreams she sees a face, and what she discovers is there are actually two faces the twins Nash and Robbie. What does this mean, danger, a future and which one is actually the man of her dreams. Nash and Robbie both vie for her attention, but only one will win her heart. A great holiday romance with intrigue and adventure set in Scotland to read at this time of year.

This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.

[Kelly Tyree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved A Secret Scottish Christmas! I really liked the characters and if you are a Walker reader than you got to enjoy flashbacks to previous books and I loved that. Throughout the book there are those nuggets and it really adds to the story.

Nash and Robbie Powell are spies for the Crown. They are to watch for a man who has spoken out against the Crown. Some in Scotland consider this man a hero. Nash and Robbie head to Scotland on assignment but also to enjoy Christmas with their family. When they arrive in Scotland they meet Aileen Stephens who is the sister of a successful shipbuilder. Both are captivated by her but it is Nash that makes Aileen's heart flutter. Nash and Robbie are skilled at changing places so that they can work on their assignment, this gets in the way as Nash tries to win Aileen's heart. As the relationship between Aileen and Nash progresses, Nash worries about how Aileen will react when he learns she is a spy. Aileen finds out when one of the twins is seriously hurt. The question is can she forgive him and realize how much she means to him?

[Cyrene Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncaged Review: The perfect dose of intrigue and romance, Regan Walker hits another home run with her Scottish/English Christmas story. Again, the author weaves this story tightly with real history and whether we know it or not, we are learning along with being entertained. This story isn’t action packed, but the story grabs hold and soon you are a bystander within the story.

The Powell’s are visiting their Scottish friends for the Holidays, sailing from England to Scotland-but the twin brothers, Robbie and Nash are also secret spies for England trying to find a fugitive, unknown to their hosts. Things get even more intriguing when the brothers fall for the hosts’ sister, Aileen. Will they be able to keep their secret? Which one will win her heart?

A perfect story to read this holiday season
Reviewed by Cyrene

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t read any of the previous books in this series but this book can easily be read as a standalone. It features a house party in Scotland where a number of English friends have gathered with a Scottish family. Many of the families have ships in common. The story revolves around the rivalry of the twin brothers, Nash and Robbie, for the affection of their host’s sister Aileen. Unbeknown to anyone else the twins are also involved in spying for the English government. There is a lovely family atmosphere created at the house party with numerous activities. At times the story did lack pace, hence the 4*, but overall it was a very entertaining read. An additional interest was the political unrest at the time and the reason why the twins were spying. I received a copy from Netgalley and have voluntarily reviewed it.

[Anna Swedenmom · Rating 5 out of 5]

A definite buy buy buy buy buy book!
What a very enchanting romance. A book with mystery, spies, romance, passion, fun. Every element I would wish for in a historical romance and more! I was totally captivated by the story. I enjoyed it so much for it made me feel like I was there in person for the sleigh rides and interacting with the characters. I was totally caught up in the book and could not lay it down. The author is one of those few that can paint a picture and expand it into a wonderful film making the reader part of the story in her mind. This book is definitely a keeper and one I will reread in the future many times. Worth every single minute your reading and will make you long for more immediately! I will keep my eyes out for this authors writing for I found it to be wonderful. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Regards, Anna

[Theresa25 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story takes place in Scotland between Aileen Stephen, the only daughter of an Aberdeen shipbuilder and twin brothers Nash and Robbie Powell of Powell & Sons Shipping. The brothers Powell, along with other members of their family and friends, are spending the Christmas holiday with Aileen, her brother and his wife in Scotland. Aileen is attracted to both Powell brothers, but with them being twins, it's hard to tell them apart. They are also both attracted to Aileen as well. But they were sent to Scotland as spies to bring back a fugitive fomenting rebellion among the Scots. This aspect gets a bit side tracked as they vie for the attention of Aileen. I thought the romance between Aileen and the twins could have been a bit stronger. I did enjoy the part where they visited an old Scottish ruin of a castle. Overall a good book.