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Lords of the Highlands #4
The Highland Chieftain
He is the last man she would ever marry…
After being unceremoniously jilted by her betrothed, Lady Mairi MacKenzie is humiliated and heartbroken – but she’s not desperate. As the daughter of an earl, she won’t give her hand to just anyone, and she definitely isn’t swayed by a last-minute proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. The powerful clan chieftain may be disarmingly handsome and charming, but he’s not a nobleman. Mairi doesn’t want his pity or his charity – even though his dark smoldering gaze makes her melt with desire.
She is the only woman he could ever love…
Dunn may be a battle-hardened clansman, but he’s always had a soft spot for Mairi. For years, she tormented him with flirtation – only to reject him. But he’s not giving up. When Mairi is attacked by redcoats, Dunn goes after the woman he loves. Through brute strength and fierce action, he will protect her life at any cost. But to win her heart, he will have to show her the tenderness in his own.
After being unceremoniously jilted by her betrothed, Lady Mairi MacKenzie is humiliated and heartbroken – but she’s not desperate. As the daughter of an earl, she won’t give her hand to just anyone, and she definitely isn’t swayed by a last-minute proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. The powerful clan chieftain may be disarmingly handsome and charming, but he’s not a nobleman. Mairi doesn’t want his pity or his charity – even though his dark smoldering gaze makes her melt with desire.
She is the only woman he could ever love…
Dunn may be a battle-hardened clansman, but he’s always had a soft spot for Mairi. For years, she tormented him with flirtation – only to reject him. But he’s not giving up. When Mairi is attacked by redcoats, Dunn goes after the woman he loves. Through brute strength and fierce action, he will protect her life at any cost. But to win her heart, he will have to show her the tenderness in his own.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2018
161 people are currently reading
722 people want to read
About the author
Amy Jarecki
113 books1,713 followersKnown for her action-packed, passionate romances, USA TODAY Bestselling Author Amy Jarecki has received reader and critical praise throughout her writing career. She won the prestigious RT Reviewers' Choice award for THE HIGHLAND DUKE and a RONE award from InD’tale Magazine for Best Time Travel for her novel RISE OF A LEGEND. In addition to being a USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Amy has earned the designation as an Amazon All Star Author. She holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland and now resides in Wisconsin with her husband where she writes immersive historical and contemporary romance novels.
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 7, 2018
Just Another Book Bitch's ALWAYS SPOILER FREE REVIEW
Current status.... 🤔 trying to figure out how to marry a fictional character...from the past... I mean...it is 2018... Dunn MacRae... is the mouthwatering champion of the highlands. Breaks my heart. I really think I was born in the wrong era sometimes...then I make myself think of life without my iPhone and air conditioning ... 🤷🏻♀️
This story is about how perfect Dunn MacRae is for me ... 🙄 FINE! It's a love story about Dunn MacRae and Mairi MacKenzie. Don't get me wrong Mairi is great. She's lived a sheltered pampered life but she's a strong and caring woman that won't make you want to throw your Kindle (like some simpleton heroines can be) Mairi MacKenzie is the sweet heartbroken innocent daughter of an earl. When her engagement is canceled she's humiliated. She's left wondering what life has in store for her if anything at all...
I liked her I really did!
Dunn is the sworn man of Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth. MacRae is the highland champion. Revered for his strength and courage.
While Dunn appears to be the scowling brute on the sidelines he is SO MUCH MORE!. Dunn rides in to save our heroine and steals our hearts while he's at it. He proves to be the hero with a heart of gold. He's so sweet and romantic! He quickly became my favorite hero from all the Lords of the Highlands novels by Amy Jarecki. He takes the risk of showing Mairi how he feels even when he doesn't think he could ever deserve her.
This was such an easy read. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Amy has an easy way with words that transports us to another time and place. She easily captures our hearts. The Highland Chieftain is definitely my favorite of this series. But what I adore most about the Lords of the Highlands series, is that they are all true standalones. You can read them in any order you want and truly enjoy them. I have, and I'm in awe of the author's talent to make me feel like I'm not missing anything while simultaneously making me NEED the other books in the series. Well done Ms. Jarecki, I can't wait for the next book!
Thanks to Forever Romance for a paperback ARC and Amy Jarecki for the opportunity to review.
The Highland Chieftain hits retailers July 31st in the US and Canada, and August 30th in the UK
PURCHASE LINKS
Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon CA
Find/follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & My Blog Page
Current status.... 🤔 trying to figure out how to marry a fictional character...from the past... I mean...it is 2018... Dunn MacRae... is the mouthwatering champion of the highlands. Breaks my heart. I really think I was born in the wrong era sometimes...then I make myself think of life without my iPhone and air conditioning ... 🤷🏻♀️
This story is about how perfect Dunn MacRae is for me ... 🙄 FINE! It's a love story about Dunn MacRae and Mairi MacKenzie. Don't get me wrong Mairi is great. She's lived a sheltered pampered life but she's a strong and caring woman that won't make you want to throw your Kindle (like some simpleton heroines can be) Mairi MacKenzie is the sweet heartbroken innocent daughter of an earl. When her engagement is canceled she's humiliated. She's left wondering what life has in store for her if anything at all...
I liked her I really did!
But Dunn MacRae is
He's the reason we buy, read, and swoon for romance reads!
Dunn is the sworn man of Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth. MacRae is the highland champion. Revered for his strength and courage.
“MacRae had earned his reputation because of his behemoth size and scale on the battlefield. He was a warrior. Ran into the face of danger when others were tucking their tails and fleeing.”
While Dunn appears to be the scowling brute on the sidelines he is SO MUCH MORE!. Dunn rides in to save our heroine and steals our hearts while he's at it. He proves to be the hero with a heart of gold. He's so sweet and romantic! He quickly became my favorite hero from all the Lords of the Highlands novels by Amy Jarecki. He takes the risk of showing Mairi how he feels even when he doesn't think he could ever deserve her.
“By allowing his heart to take over his judgment, he was playing with fire.”
This was such an easy read. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Amy has an easy way with words that transports us to another time and place. She easily captures our hearts. The Highland Chieftain is definitely my favorite of this series. But what I adore most about the Lords of the Highlands series, is that they are all true standalones. You can read them in any order you want and truly enjoy them. I have, and I'm in awe of the author's talent to make me feel like I'm not missing anything while simultaneously making me NEED the other books in the series. Well done Ms. Jarecki, I can't wait for the next book!
Thanks to Forever Romance for a paperback ARC and Amy Jarecki for the opportunity to review.
The Highland Chieftain hits retailers July 31st in the US and Canada, and August 30th in the UK
PURCHASE LINKS
Amazon US, Amazon UK, Amazon CA
Find/follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter & My Blog Page
did-not-finish
April 3, 2024This was tediously boring and unoriginal. She released a breath she didn’t realize she was holding…twice. And he called her 🐈⬛ her treasure, I can’t read any more.
👋🏻 out at 30%.
👋🏻 out at 30%.
April 24, 2019
3.5 Stars
Lady Mairi MacKenzie has been left humiliated and heartbroken when she is jilted by her betrothed, but she is not desperate enough to accept a last-minute proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. When Mairi is attacked by redcoats in the forest, Dunn rides to her rescue. But rescuing Lady Mairi seemed to come with a cost because now her father wants Dunns head for “kidnapping” his daughter.
This was a good Highlander read. I really enjoyed Amy Jarecki writing, I think she is a really good author. Although I liked Mairi and Dunn well enough, I found the plot to be a little lacking. I did enjoy the two characters together, the romance was really sweet. I found Mairi’s father to be completely unreasonable in his assumptions and what he did to Dunn. I am still interested in the next book in this series, because it features what looks like a forbidden romance.
Lady Mairi MacKenzie has been left humiliated and heartbroken when she is jilted by her betrothed, but she is not desperate enough to accept a last-minute proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. When Mairi is attacked by redcoats in the forest, Dunn rides to her rescue. But rescuing Lady Mairi seemed to come with a cost because now her father wants Dunns head for “kidnapping” his daughter.
This was a good Highlander read. I really enjoyed Amy Jarecki writing, I think she is a really good author. Although I liked Mairi and Dunn well enough, I found the plot to be a little lacking. I did enjoy the two characters together, the romance was really sweet. I found Mairi’s father to be completely unreasonable in his assumptions and what he did to Dunn. I am still interested in the next book in this series, because it features what looks like a forbidden romance.
January 16, 2019
Rollicking romp across the Highlands…
Political intrigue, nobility vs commoners and, of course, romance fill up another great read in the Lords of the Highlands series. Mairi had been spoken for since she was a young girl but when jilted, Duncan seized his chance to stake his claim. When that went spectacularly wrong, the games really began!
I really enjoyed this rollicking romp through the highlands treacherous terrain (and weather!). Chased by the English, they found themselves on the run, in close quarters, with all the time in the world to sort out their differences. Misunderstandings have no place in a life or death situation so sorting out their problems was second only to saving themselves. The chemistry was high, in each touch and conversation, each day bringing them closer to safety, and each other…
If you are looking for a well-written historical romance with handsome highlanders and brave heroine than this series, this series, then you have found it! ~Diane, 4 stars
Political intrigue, nobility vs commoners and, of course, romance fill up another great read in the Lords of the Highlands series. Mairi had been spoken for since she was a young girl but when jilted, Duncan seized his chance to stake his claim. When that went spectacularly wrong, the games really began!
I really enjoyed this rollicking romp through the highlands treacherous terrain (and weather!). Chased by the English, they found themselves on the run, in close quarters, with all the time in the world to sort out their differences. Misunderstandings have no place in a life or death situation so sorting out their problems was second only to saving themselves. The chemistry was high, in each touch and conversation, each day bringing them closer to safety, and each other…
If you are looking for a well-written historical romance with handsome highlanders and brave heroine than this series, this series, then you have found it! ~Diane, 4 stars
July 15, 2018
Series: Lords of the Highlands #4
Publication Date: 7/31/18
I have absolutely adored each book in the series and I have been excitedly waiting for this book since I finished the final word in the last book. Dunn and Mairi were supporting characters in that book and I was excited to learn more about them. I’m sure I am in the minority, but I was sorely disappointed. Dunn, the Hero of the Highlands was taller than any man around and had shoulders the width of a horses hindquarters. He was a fearsome warrior. Yet, this book made him sound like a complete milksop – not in deed so much as in thought. I could understand him having some soft thoughts of love for his lady, but – good grief – to me he sounded more like a love-struck 12-year-old GIRL. I actually think this would have been better as a novella because it didn’t get really interesting until somewhere between the 50% to 60% range.
In the last book, The Highland Guardian, Mairi MacKenzie’s fiancé, Reid MacKenzie, the Earl of Seaforth, broke their engagement and married his ward. Mairi was embarrassed and felt she was ruined, but her father made her attend a Highland gathering anyway. At the gathering, the Redcoats came in and were breaking up the gathering because they had had a report that it was a Jacobite gathering. Mairi had left for a walk alone just before the Redcoats entered – and she was accosted by three Redcoats bent on violating her.
Ducan (Dunn) MacRae is a powerful Highland Chieftain who has been in love with Mairi MacKenzie since she was fifteen and he was four-and-twenty. He could never act on that because she was betrothed to his friend Reid MacKenzie. Dunn’s family had long been allied with the MacKenzies and had pledged their fealty to them. It seems that Dunn had always been at Reid’s back cleaning up Reid’s messes – and Reid was always in a mess.
When Dunn was attending a Highland gathering, he saw three Redcoats pursuing Mairi and he jumped on a horse and headed out to rescue her. He did just that, but then, the Redcoats were in pursuit and he couldn’t get her back to the gathering and her father. There was only one place Dunn could think of to take her so he could keep her safe until he could get her back to her father. It was nice to see them spend time with each other and get to know each other.
I was totally disappointed in Seaforth’s role in this book. Dunn is someone who had saved Seaforth’s life numerous times, he’d cleaned up his messes and always had Seaforth’s back. Then, Seaforth just basically left Dunn twisting in the wind. Yes, it was always explained away – the Queen had summoned Seaforth or the Queen had sent Seaforth somewhere, etc. However – there were things Seaforth could have easily done – he could have had his army standing at the ready to aid Dunn – he could have put in a good word with the Queen on Dunn’s behalf – all sorts of things and he didn’t do any of them. Definitely not what I would have expected.
The book is filled with ‘thoughts’ from Dunn mostly but Mairi as well. Those thoughts are pretty sappy I think. I’ll give you some examples, but be ready for about a half-dozen per page. Yes, having some of these thoughts is sweetly romantic – but there are just so many of them . . .
She looked like a fairy come to life, complete with wings and stardust sparkling about her ruby locks.
Sighing, he made himself a pallet and waited until sleep took away the pain of having his love trampled by the nobility of the lands he’d pledged his sword to protect.
He would walk across the snows of Ben Nevis barefoot in winter to ensure Lady Mairi’s safety.
Jesu, how could a man feel pain when presented with such beauty?
How dare he allow himself a moment of weakness. He was Lady Mairi’s sworn protector
He should never – not ever – show his emotions to Her Ladyship
A woman as fine as Lady Mairi must be treated with reverence and care
What we share is pure, divine. No one in all of Christendom can tear down our bond. Our love is greater than an ocean. It can withstand anything.
He would wait to share her bed forever if need be. No woman had ever come to mean so much to him. THIS was thought AFTER they had already slept together, but she didn’t want to ‘cheapen’ their love by sleeping together while pretending to be man and wife.
Again, I am sure I am in the minority with my review, but I can only write what I honestly feel about the book. If you read it, I hope you agree with the majority of reviewers rather than me. I am truly looking forward to the next book because I think this was an anomaly. I rated all of the other books in the series either 4 or 5 stars and I’m sure the next one will be right back up there as well.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 7/31/18
I have absolutely adored each book in the series and I have been excitedly waiting for this book since I finished the final word in the last book. Dunn and Mairi were supporting characters in that book and I was excited to learn more about them. I’m sure I am in the minority, but I was sorely disappointed. Dunn, the Hero of the Highlands was taller than any man around and had shoulders the width of a horses hindquarters. He was a fearsome warrior. Yet, this book made him sound like a complete milksop – not in deed so much as in thought. I could understand him having some soft thoughts of love for his lady, but – good grief – to me he sounded more like a love-struck 12-year-old GIRL. I actually think this would have been better as a novella because it didn’t get really interesting until somewhere between the 50% to 60% range.
In the last book, The Highland Guardian, Mairi MacKenzie’s fiancé, Reid MacKenzie, the Earl of Seaforth, broke their engagement and married his ward. Mairi was embarrassed and felt she was ruined, but her father made her attend a Highland gathering anyway. At the gathering, the Redcoats came in and were breaking up the gathering because they had had a report that it was a Jacobite gathering. Mairi had left for a walk alone just before the Redcoats entered – and she was accosted by three Redcoats bent on violating her.
Ducan (Dunn) MacRae is a powerful Highland Chieftain who has been in love with Mairi MacKenzie since she was fifteen and he was four-and-twenty. He could never act on that because she was betrothed to his friend Reid MacKenzie. Dunn’s family had long been allied with the MacKenzies and had pledged their fealty to them. It seems that Dunn had always been at Reid’s back cleaning up Reid’s messes – and Reid was always in a mess.
When Dunn was attending a Highland gathering, he saw three Redcoats pursuing Mairi and he jumped on a horse and headed out to rescue her. He did just that, but then, the Redcoats were in pursuit and he couldn’t get her back to the gathering and her father. There was only one place Dunn could think of to take her so he could keep her safe until he could get her back to her father. It was nice to see them spend time with each other and get to know each other.
I was totally disappointed in Seaforth’s role in this book. Dunn is someone who had saved Seaforth’s life numerous times, he’d cleaned up his messes and always had Seaforth’s back. Then, Seaforth just basically left Dunn twisting in the wind. Yes, it was always explained away – the Queen had summoned Seaforth or the Queen had sent Seaforth somewhere, etc. However – there were things Seaforth could have easily done – he could have had his army standing at the ready to aid Dunn – he could have put in a good word with the Queen on Dunn’s behalf – all sorts of things and he didn’t do any of them. Definitely not what I would have expected.
The book is filled with ‘thoughts’ from Dunn mostly but Mairi as well. Those thoughts are pretty sappy I think. I’ll give you some examples, but be ready for about a half-dozen per page. Yes, having some of these thoughts is sweetly romantic – but there are just so many of them . . .
She looked like a fairy come to life, complete with wings and stardust sparkling about her ruby locks.
Sighing, he made himself a pallet and waited until sleep took away the pain of having his love trampled by the nobility of the lands he’d pledged his sword to protect.
He would walk across the snows of Ben Nevis barefoot in winter to ensure Lady Mairi’s safety.
Jesu, how could a man feel pain when presented with such beauty?
How dare he allow himself a moment of weakness. He was Lady Mairi’s sworn protector
He should never – not ever – show his emotions to Her Ladyship
A woman as fine as Lady Mairi must be treated with reverence and care
What we share is pure, divine. No one in all of Christendom can tear down our bond. Our love is greater than an ocean. It can withstand anything.
He would wait to share her bed forever if need be. No woman had ever come to mean so much to him. THIS was thought AFTER they had already slept together, but she didn’t want to ‘cheapen’ their love by sleeping together while pretending to be man and wife.
Again, I am sure I am in the minority with my review, but I can only write what I honestly feel about the book. If you read it, I hope you agree with the majority of reviewers rather than me. I am truly looking forward to the next book because I think this was an anomaly. I rated all of the other books in the series either 4 or 5 stars and I’m sure the next one will be right back up there as well.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
June 30, 2018
The Highland Chieftain features Dunn, an almost too good to be true, alpha protective, swoon worthy, selfless hero, who is carrying around baggage thinking he isn’t worthy of Mairi, the heroine. Not just because of her selfish, manipulative father’s place in society, but because Dunn has obviously put her on a pedestal for quite some time. He speaks of her like she is the most beautiful, wonderful woman of this world. This despite the fact his offer of marriage has been rejected. Yeah, he’s the one who’s been carrying around a torch of unrequited love. You’ve got to hand it to this laird of his clan lad. He doesn’t let his pride and feelings of rejection keep him from doing what needs to be done, protect Mairi at all costs.
One thing some may consider minor but got my major attention was, except for Dunn’s occasional Scottish Brogue, he often sounded and acted very English, meaning he had very proper English speech and mannerisms. Mairi, likewise, came across like a noble English lady, more so than a spitfire Highland lass. For me that lessened the Scottish vibe.
Dunn proved his devotion to Mairi many times over. He really was a dreamboat of a book boyfriend. He was the highlight of the entire book, in my opinion. Not surprisingly, Mairi soons falls for him, as well. Though it was super romantic he was so sweet on her, it occasionally could turn a tad sappy. I.e., I just couldn’t see this mountain of muscle, roughness, and toughness writing her genteel poetry, folks.
At almost 70% into it, I reluctantly had to acknowledge the writing had slowly but surely become more mechanical, stilted, and less engaging. I also wasn’t really seeing why or what Dunn saw that was so verra special about this leading lady. Yeah, he might have thought, “There’s just something about Mairi”, but I really didn’t think so. To me she came across as quite average. Though I absolutely loved how he loved her. He was the real prize to be won, my fellow romance book loving friends.
That was also the time I struggled to keep reading. You see, I was sure everything was going to eventually work out just fine for this couple so, since I had the gist of it all, why bother to continue. The writing and fallout/events that unfolded near the conclusion just weren’t scripted well enough to keep me completely riveted. The drama started to feel pieced together instead of flowing. However, I pushed on until 90%. Again, despite all the perilous drama happening, I found myself skimming through large parts of it.
Perhaps it’s just me. I do prefer a “gives as good as she gets/doesn’t back down/can protect herself” type heroine. That seems to perfectly describe Janet, the heroine in the next book, The Highland Renegade. She’ll be giving Robert, an enemy of her clan hero, a run for his money and heart. Now that one should prove to be verra, verra interesting indeed.
I do highly recommend book 1 and 2 of this series. Book 3, well, not so much. The main reason to read The Highland Chieftain would obviously be for Dunn. That man has done stole my heart, folks, and I'll never forget him. It was refreshing to see a hero so devoted and besotted, without sacrificing his pride and integrity.
Title: The Highland Chieftain, Series: Lords of the Highlands (Book 4), Author: Amy Jarecki, Pages: 352, stand-alone but part of a series, great/super sweet/alpha protective hero, clueless/naive, helpless most of the time heroine, a few steamy scenes, writing lost its appeal started to feel pieced together, stopped at 90%.
Book 1 - The Highland Duke (Akira & Geordie), Pages: 384, 3/28/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - The Highland Commander (Magdalen & Aidan), Pages: 384, 6/27/17https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - The Highland Guardian (Reid & Audrey), Pages: 368, 12/19/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 4 - The Highland Chieftain (Mairi & Dunn), Pages: 352, 7/31/18
Book 5 - The Highland Renegade (Robert & Janet), Pages: 384, 1/29/19
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
One thing some may consider minor but got my major attention was, except for Dunn’s occasional Scottish Brogue, he often sounded and acted very English, meaning he had very proper English speech and mannerisms. Mairi, likewise, came across like a noble English lady, more so than a spitfire Highland lass. For me that lessened the Scottish vibe.
Dunn proved his devotion to Mairi many times over. He really was a dreamboat of a book boyfriend. He was the highlight of the entire book, in my opinion. Not surprisingly, Mairi soons falls for him, as well. Though it was super romantic he was so sweet on her, it occasionally could turn a tad sappy. I.e., I just couldn’t see this mountain of muscle, roughness, and toughness writing her genteel poetry, folks.
At almost 70% into it, I reluctantly had to acknowledge the writing had slowly but surely become more mechanical, stilted, and less engaging. I also wasn’t really seeing why or what Dunn saw that was so verra special about this leading lady. Yeah, he might have thought, “There’s just something about Mairi”, but I really didn’t think so. To me she came across as quite average. Though I absolutely loved how he loved her. He was the real prize to be won, my fellow romance book loving friends.
That was also the time I struggled to keep reading. You see, I was sure everything was going to eventually work out just fine for this couple so, since I had the gist of it all, why bother to continue. The writing and fallout/events that unfolded near the conclusion just weren’t scripted well enough to keep me completely riveted. The drama started to feel pieced together instead of flowing. However, I pushed on until 90%. Again, despite all the perilous drama happening, I found myself skimming through large parts of it.
Perhaps it’s just me. I do prefer a “gives as good as she gets/doesn’t back down/can protect herself” type heroine. That seems to perfectly describe Janet, the heroine in the next book, The Highland Renegade. She’ll be giving Robert, an enemy of her clan hero, a run for his money and heart. Now that one should prove to be verra, verra interesting indeed.
I do highly recommend book 1 and 2 of this series. Book 3, well, not so much. The main reason to read The Highland Chieftain would obviously be for Dunn. That man has done stole my heart, folks, and I'll never forget him. It was refreshing to see a hero so devoted and besotted, without sacrificing his pride and integrity.
Title: The Highland Chieftain, Series: Lords of the Highlands (Book 4), Author: Amy Jarecki, Pages: 352, stand-alone but part of a series, great/super sweet/alpha protective hero, clueless/naive, helpless most of the time heroine, a few steamy scenes, writing lost its appeal started to feel pieced together, stopped at 90%.
Book 1 - The Highland Duke (Akira & Geordie), Pages: 384, 3/28/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - The Highland Commander (Magdalen & Aidan), Pages: 384, 6/27/17https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - The Highland Guardian (Reid & Audrey), Pages: 368, 12/19/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 4 - The Highland Chieftain (Mairi & Dunn), Pages: 352, 7/31/18
Book 5 - The Highland Renegade (Robert & Janet), Pages: 384, 1/29/19
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
July 30, 2018
The main characters of The Highland Chieftain were introduced at the end of The Highland Guardian and I am thrilled to finally get their story.
What I loved about The Highland Chieftain:
Dunn loves Mairi and isn't afraid of that!
Mairi and Dunn have a miscommunication/misunderstanding, which I normally hate, but they are able to get past it fairly early on (before the 1/2 way mark) and I loved that
Its really Dunn and Mairi against the world-her father, the Redcoats, and anyone else who stands in their way! They won't let anyone hold them back!
I loved the relationship between Dunn and Mairi. They are very different-she was raised as the daughter of an Earl who was expected to marry well. He is a rugged highlander who has been the right hand man of the Earl of Seaforth. However different these two might be, they absolutely love each other.
Dunn says some seriously swoonworthy things throughout the story. Its so romantic!
The Highland Chieftain is perfect for a weekend binge that will take you away to Scotland and the beauty of the landscape while giving you a gorgeous love story for the ages! Jarecki also does a wonderful job of explaining her historical influences at the end of the book so you know what aspects of the book are historically accurate and which were embelished. As a history buff I think this is bliss!
Yall know I like maps and need to see what is described and Jarecki does a beautiful job of describing where in Scotland Dunn and Mairi are located.
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: secret relationship, opposites attract
Triggers: none
Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
other Scottish romances by authors like Maya Banks, Judith McNaught, Monica McCarty...then you will probably like The Highland Chieftain!
The Highland Chieftain
See full review on The Book Disciple
July 31, 2018
Amy's stories always are my favorites be it a Highlander story or a Romantic Suspense. This one is one of my favorites a guardian protector. Poor Dunn MacRae, Laird of his clan but under the fealty of the Earl of Seaforth, Reid MacKenzie. He's always been in love with Mairi MacKenzie but she's the betrothed of his fealty lord Reid, an earl. Reid elopes with his ward as we saw in the previous book and he immediately offers for the jilted Mairi now that she's freed. Her Da declines without even consulting her as he has title plans for his daughter since she'll not be Reid's countess. Dunn has never felt worthy of Mairi since he's not titled but he loves her. His opportunity comes again and he finds himself on a journey with Mairi to protect her from her social climbing father mixed up in the soon to be explosive politics of Scotland and England. I loved the twists and turns in this story and being able to see another highland laird rescue a damsel in distress. Thank you Amy and Forever publishers for the opportunity to review this story.
July 17, 2018
Great historical romance with just the right amount of historical background and facts as well as a good, steamy romance between two strong characters. Dunn was the epitome of an alpha possessive hero with Mairi being the perfect counterpoint. Loved the strong bond and deep love between the two that carried them through their trials and barriers.
July 22, 2018
I enjoyed this addition to the Lords of the Highlands series. When we last saw Lady Mairi MacKenzie, she was reeling from being jilted by Reid MacKenzie, the Earl of Seaforth. They had been betrothed as children and Mairi grew up believing she would be his countess, but instead, he breaks their betrothal and marries Audrey, his ward. Mairi isn't exactly heartbroken, but she is feeling sorry for herself and turns down a proposal by Duncan "Dunn" MacRae, believing the highland laird, a man who swears fealty to Seaforth is only proposing out of pity.
Dunn has long desired Mairi, but as Seaforth's betrothed, she was off limits. When he proposes and is rejected, he knows he should just move on and forget about her, but the heart wants what the heart wants and forgetting her is just not possible. When Mairi is in danger, Dunn risks his life to save her, he kills three English dragoons that were intent on raping her and rides away with her when more soldiers show up. He had planned on returning her to her home immediately, but her father convinced he abducted her, has placed a bounty on his head and he cannot safely return her.
They hole up in his favorite spot, the Cavern of the Fairies and Dunn does his best to keep his desire in check. They spend time talking and Dunn offers to teach her how to defend herself. All is going well until Mairi gets ill and Dunn is forced to leave their sanctuary to get her to a healer. He takes her to his home Eilean Donan Castle and nurses her back to health.
Mairi has always been attracted to Dunn, but she never acted on it, first she was betrothed and later didn't want to be pitied by him, but now she has come to realize there is much more to Dunn than she believed and she would like nothing more than to explore the feelings he has invoked. Before they become lovers, Dunn again proposes and she accepts, she is aware her father has other plans for her, but she is sure she can convince him to accept Dunn.
They enjoy their time together, but they long to get her father's blessing and when pleas to Seaforth to intervene come to nothing, they decide to confront her father. But things take a terrible turn and Dunn is imprisoned. Mairi is devastated, she loves Dunn with all her heart and is forced to go to London with her father to save his life.
It seems all is lost for our lovers, but Dunn is not willing to lose Mairi again, he is relentless in his quest to marry her and more than once, his life is put in jeopardy. But when all seems lost, help comes from unexpected sources and Mairi will have to decide if her love for Dunn is enough to give up her family.
This was a fast paced, very emotionally driven story with a sigh worthy hero who loves Mairi with steadfast devotion rarely portrayed in romances these days. The story has action, steamy love scenes, a really vile villain, heartbreak, cameos from Reid and Audrey and a truly beautiful soulmate type love. The only thing that really bothered me was that the villain really didn't suffer any repercussions for his treatment of Dunn and Mairi. But that aside, it was a good read and had a completely different feel from the previous books in the series. This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highlands, but I think it could be read as a stand alone with no problems, however, if you want to go into this book with a better understanding of the relationships between Dunn, Mairi and Seaforth, I would highly recommend at least reading Highland Guardian first.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Dunn has long desired Mairi, but as Seaforth's betrothed, she was off limits. When he proposes and is rejected, he knows he should just move on and forget about her, but the heart wants what the heart wants and forgetting her is just not possible. When Mairi is in danger, Dunn risks his life to save her, he kills three English dragoons that were intent on raping her and rides away with her when more soldiers show up. He had planned on returning her to her home immediately, but her father convinced he abducted her, has placed a bounty on his head and he cannot safely return her.
They hole up in his favorite spot, the Cavern of the Fairies and Dunn does his best to keep his desire in check. They spend time talking and Dunn offers to teach her how to defend herself. All is going well until Mairi gets ill and Dunn is forced to leave their sanctuary to get her to a healer. He takes her to his home Eilean Donan Castle and nurses her back to health.
Mairi has always been attracted to Dunn, but she never acted on it, first she was betrothed and later didn't want to be pitied by him, but now she has come to realize there is much more to Dunn than she believed and she would like nothing more than to explore the feelings he has invoked. Before they become lovers, Dunn again proposes and she accepts, she is aware her father has other plans for her, but she is sure she can convince him to accept Dunn.
They enjoy their time together, but they long to get her father's blessing and when pleas to Seaforth to intervene come to nothing, they decide to confront her father. But things take a terrible turn and Dunn is imprisoned. Mairi is devastated, she loves Dunn with all her heart and is forced to go to London with her father to save his life.
It seems all is lost for our lovers, but Dunn is not willing to lose Mairi again, he is relentless in his quest to marry her and more than once, his life is put in jeopardy. But when all seems lost, help comes from unexpected sources and Mairi will have to decide if her love for Dunn is enough to give up her family.
This was a fast paced, very emotionally driven story with a sigh worthy hero who loves Mairi with steadfast devotion rarely portrayed in romances these days. The story has action, steamy love scenes, a really vile villain, heartbreak, cameos from Reid and Audrey and a truly beautiful soulmate type love. The only thing that really bothered me was that the villain really didn't suffer any repercussions for his treatment of Dunn and Mairi. But that aside, it was a good read and had a completely different feel from the previous books in the series. This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highlands, but I think it could be read as a stand alone with no problems, however, if you want to go into this book with a better understanding of the relationships between Dunn, Mairi and Seaforth, I would highly recommend at least reading Highland Guardian first.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
July 5, 2018
The Highland Chieftain is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highlands series by Amy Jarecki. Although part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone novel.
Lady Mairi MacKenzie has been betrothed since she was a young girl. She was certain of her future. That is until her betrothed fell in love with his ward and married her. Mairi is devastated because now she fears she is ruined and that no other man will want her. Her father tells her she is talking nonsense and insists she attends the Highland Games with him where she will show that she is young free and single again. He hopes to wed her to a man of means, a titled man, and definitely not one man who already offered his hand in marriage to Mairi after her betrothed let her down.
Laird Duncan MacRae is that man. He has loved Mairi since she was 15, but he owes fealty to her betrothed so kept his feelings to himself. When the betrothal fell through Duncan asked her father if he could court Mairi with the aim of marrying her. He was immediately refused and was pretty much told that Mairi wanted better for herself than the likes of him. With his feelings hurt he vowed he wouldn't have anything to do Mairi again.
When they are both in attendance at the Highland Games they are both anxious to keep away from each other. Mairi because she believes he only asked for her hand out of pity, and Duncan because he believes she turned him down. When circumstances arise where Mairi's safety is in danger Duncan rescues her and they have to go on the run. He needs to keep her safe, but at the same time her father accuses him of kidnapping her and puts a bounty on his head, wanted dead or alive. With them having to spend time together they learn a lot about each other, and what they learn they like. But can they trust one another, can they get past the hurts they mistakenly believe each other has caused? And, can anything come of them growing closer when there is a bounty on Duncan's head, plus her father wouldn't let them marry anyway as he demands better for her. What future for our couple?
I absolutely loved this story, from the very first page I was hooked and couldn't put the book down until I had read it all! I loved how the romance developed between Duncan and Mairi and how Duncan put his life on the line to keep her safe. Their lust for each other was palpable and I couldn't wait until they gave in and at least had their first kiss. Mairi's father is a horrendous person, and if I could have entered the story I would have grabbed something hard and hit him between the legs with it! Poor Mairi having to put up with a father like that. I love how angry he made me. Amy Jarecki is an amazing author because her writing can make you love or hate her characters so much that you feel 100% involved with their story. Her stories are well researched and I love that at the end of the book she explains where she got her inspiration from for characters, what and who are fact or fiction, embellished or unembellished etc. This book like all the others she writes truly deserve the 5 stars that I always end up giving them.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Lady Mairi MacKenzie has been betrothed since she was a young girl. She was certain of her future. That is until her betrothed fell in love with his ward and married her. Mairi is devastated because now she fears she is ruined and that no other man will want her. Her father tells her she is talking nonsense and insists she attends the Highland Games with him where she will show that she is young free and single again. He hopes to wed her to a man of means, a titled man, and definitely not one man who already offered his hand in marriage to Mairi after her betrothed let her down.
Laird Duncan MacRae is that man. He has loved Mairi since she was 15, but he owes fealty to her betrothed so kept his feelings to himself. When the betrothal fell through Duncan asked her father if he could court Mairi with the aim of marrying her. He was immediately refused and was pretty much told that Mairi wanted better for herself than the likes of him. With his feelings hurt he vowed he wouldn't have anything to do Mairi again.
When they are both in attendance at the Highland Games they are both anxious to keep away from each other. Mairi because she believes he only asked for her hand out of pity, and Duncan because he believes she turned him down. When circumstances arise where Mairi's safety is in danger Duncan rescues her and they have to go on the run. He needs to keep her safe, but at the same time her father accuses him of kidnapping her and puts a bounty on his head, wanted dead or alive. With them having to spend time together they learn a lot about each other, and what they learn they like. But can they trust one another, can they get past the hurts they mistakenly believe each other has caused? And, can anything come of them growing closer when there is a bounty on Duncan's head, plus her father wouldn't let them marry anyway as he demands better for her. What future for our couple?
I absolutely loved this story, from the very first page I was hooked and couldn't put the book down until I had read it all! I loved how the romance developed between Duncan and Mairi and how Duncan put his life on the line to keep her safe. Their lust for each other was palpable and I couldn't wait until they gave in and at least had their first kiss. Mairi's father is a horrendous person, and if I could have entered the story I would have grabbed something hard and hit him between the legs with it! Poor Mairi having to put up with a father like that. I love how angry he made me. Amy Jarecki is an amazing author because her writing can make you love or hate her characters so much that you feel 100% involved with their story. Her stories are well researched and I love that at the end of the book she explains where she got her inspiration from for characters, what and who are fact or fiction, embellished or unembellished etc. This book like all the others she writes truly deserve the 5 stars that I always end up giving them.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
July 15, 2018
Since having been jilted by the Earl of Seaforth, Lady Mairi MacKenzie has lost her sparkle; all joy seemed to have drained out of her. Duncan “Dunn” MacRae, who has fancied Mairi in secrets for several years, saw his chance when Seaforth cried off, but Mairi refused. But her father has not relented: she will marry into the nobility, which is why the MacKenzies are headed to Urquhart Castle for the Highland fetes. Unable to lift her spirits, Mairi wanders off in the wood for some peace and quiet, which was not to be, as she is accosted by some Redcoats. Dunn had been keeping an eye on her, and a good thing it was, because he arrived just in time to rescue her from the ill-intentioned villains. Alas, more are coming their way, and the only way out is to run for their lives …
Amy Jarecki is always a wonderful writer, but with THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN, she has reached heights of uncommon brilliance. The author’s prose is as gorgeous as you will ever see: luminous, crisp, and utterly dazzling; the descriptions makes Scotland, voyages at sea, the Highland games, are as vivid and real as you can hope for on the written page; and the little trip to London Bridge was something I had never seen before. Ms. Jarecki sprinkles her narrative with delightful and enlightening historical details that make her story shine with welcome authenticity. Seldom have I read a historical romance that rang so true, especially a Scottish one, and the dialogues were utterly delightful as well, the author never straying from the era’s usage and still keeping the tone flowing and airy. Needless to say, the secondary characters, some recurring ones from previous books, are impeccably drawn; Lord Buchan was particularly intriguing …
It seems I’m always repeating myself when it comes to Amy Jarecki, but every book in this fabulous series is better than the previous one. Dunn is a magnificent hero: big, brawny, manly, honourable, and with a real tender Scotsman’s heart; he is a true romantic, and I simply adored him. Mairi acts like a well-bred early eighteenth century woman, yet she is not a dishrag, nor is she a reckless fool; she stood her ground when it was required, and not out of stubbornness; she behaved sensibly at all times. The romance is passionate, and I felt the immense love that Mairi and Dunn shared. There is a lot of action and adventures in THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN, as well as a splendid romance, and the storytelling is exceptionally smooth, there is nary a bump on the narrative road. If you love Highland romances, THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN is one you will not want to miss, because I truly felt I had been transported in another time and place for the time it took to read this outstanding book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Amy Jarecki is always a wonderful writer, but with THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN, she has reached heights of uncommon brilliance. The author’s prose is as gorgeous as you will ever see: luminous, crisp, and utterly dazzling; the descriptions makes Scotland, voyages at sea, the Highland games, are as vivid and real as you can hope for on the written page; and the little trip to London Bridge was something I had never seen before. Ms. Jarecki sprinkles her narrative with delightful and enlightening historical details that make her story shine with welcome authenticity. Seldom have I read a historical romance that rang so true, especially a Scottish one, and the dialogues were utterly delightful as well, the author never straying from the era’s usage and still keeping the tone flowing and airy. Needless to say, the secondary characters, some recurring ones from previous books, are impeccably drawn; Lord Buchan was particularly intriguing …
It seems I’m always repeating myself when it comes to Amy Jarecki, but every book in this fabulous series is better than the previous one. Dunn is a magnificent hero: big, brawny, manly, honourable, and with a real tender Scotsman’s heart; he is a true romantic, and I simply adored him. Mairi acts like a well-bred early eighteenth century woman, yet she is not a dishrag, nor is she a reckless fool; she stood her ground when it was required, and not out of stubbornness; she behaved sensibly at all times. The romance is passionate, and I felt the immense love that Mairi and Dunn shared. There is a lot of action and adventures in THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN, as well as a splendid romance, and the storytelling is exceptionally smooth, there is nary a bump on the narrative road. If you love Highland romances, THE HIGHLAND CHIEFTAIN is one you will not want to miss, because I truly felt I had been transported in another time and place for the time it took to read this outstanding book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 27, 2018
I was generously sent an ARC but it does not impact my thoughts on the book.
Since hearing about this book, I've been so excited to read it and I'm so very happy to read it earlier than the publication date.
This is the story of Mairi MacKenzie and Laird Duncan MacRae who have known each other for many years though mostly in passing. After Mairi's engagement to the Earl of Seaforth is broken off, she's humiliated and wanting to find a place to lick her wounds so to speak. Though Duncan (Dunn to those he considers a part of his group) offers for her shortly after being jilted, her Dad convinces her that it wasn't sincere and convinces her to travel with him to a gathering of the Clans.
Dunn's offer was actually not made out of pity and he's carried a torch for Mairi for many years but been unable to act upon it until now.
When Mairi decides to take a walk in the woods one day, she has no idea that her world is about to be turned upside down nor that Dunn could very well be the man that she was truly meant to be with.
This is the tale of two unlikely people who find themselves on the run from English dragoons, learning a lot about each other, trying to evade several pesky people including Mairi's scheming Dad, the captivating beauty of the Highlands in the early 1700s and the power of love.
I was hooked on this story from the moment I picked it up and even though I have now finished it, the story will stick withe for a long time to come. I loved getting to know these two amazing people, the romance, the power of Scottish clans coming together to protect their own and a particularly heartwarming event that takes place near the end of the book.
Whether you have read previous books by Amy Jarecki, this is your first foray into her world or just love all that's to be had in the Scotty Highlands in the 1700s, I think you'll enjoy this book just as much as I have! This kind of book reminds me of just how much I enjoy reading about Scotland particularly in the 18th Century and the lure of braw Scottish men in kilts. I can't wait to see what next Amy has in store for her Highlanders!
Since hearing about this book, I've been so excited to read it and I'm so very happy to read it earlier than the publication date.
This is the story of Mairi MacKenzie and Laird Duncan MacRae who have known each other for many years though mostly in passing. After Mairi's engagement to the Earl of Seaforth is broken off, she's humiliated and wanting to find a place to lick her wounds so to speak. Though Duncan (Dunn to those he considers a part of his group) offers for her shortly after being jilted, her Dad convinces her that it wasn't sincere and convinces her to travel with him to a gathering of the Clans.
Dunn's offer was actually not made out of pity and he's carried a torch for Mairi for many years but been unable to act upon it until now.
When Mairi decides to take a walk in the woods one day, she has no idea that her world is about to be turned upside down nor that Dunn could very well be the man that she was truly meant to be with.
This is the tale of two unlikely people who find themselves on the run from English dragoons, learning a lot about each other, trying to evade several pesky people including Mairi's scheming Dad, the captivating beauty of the Highlands in the early 1700s and the power of love.
I was hooked on this story from the moment I picked it up and even though I have now finished it, the story will stick withe for a long time to come. I loved getting to know these two amazing people, the romance, the power of Scottish clans coming together to protect their own and a particularly heartwarming event that takes place near the end of the book.
Whether you have read previous books by Amy Jarecki, this is your first foray into her world or just love all that's to be had in the Scotty Highlands in the 1700s, I think you'll enjoy this book just as much as I have! This kind of book reminds me of just how much I enjoy reading about Scotland particularly in the 18th Century and the lure of braw Scottish men in kilts. I can't wait to see what next Amy has in store for her Highlanders!
July 31, 2018
The Highland Chieftain by Amy Jarecki is book Four in the Lords of the Highlands series. This is the story of Lady Mairi MacKenzie and Laird Duncan 'Dunn' MacRae. I have read the previous books but fee this can be a standalone book. Mairi was set to marry a man that has been promised her since childhood but nearing their time he up an married someone else. Although it wasn't a love match the embarrassment and loss of her life plan has set her into a depressed state. Mairi father is making her rejoin the world and the first person she runs into (more like run over by) is Dunn. Dunn shortly after her broken engagement offered for her hand in marriage to her father. But Mari thought he was asking out of pity for her and he though she turned him down because he wasn't good enough. They try to avoid each other during the Highland Games but when Mairi life gets in danger...Dunn comes to save her.
This was such a great and exciting read....one that you won't be putting down! Loved it!
This was such a great and exciting read....one that you won't be putting down! Loved it!
July 31, 2018
Another great story from Amy Jarecki! I loved the pace of the story and had to keep turning pages to see where this tale would take me. Danger, misunderstandings, a father who lost his path, and a love so strong it touched me deep, all of this combined to make a story worth reading and sharing. Mairi and Dunn made a great couple with the strength of their love and commitment to each other. I highly recommend this story.
I received a copy of this story through Netgalley, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received a copy of this story through Netgalley, and this is my unsolicited review.
June 15, 2018
What is better than a brawny, sexy Highlander? A brawny, sexy Highlander with a soft heart and written by the talented Amy Jarecki!
Devastated at having what she thought her life would be torn from her, Lady Mairi MacKenzie wants nothing more than to remain in her home. Alas, her father will not have it and forces her to attend the Highland Games. Poor Mairi’s devastation clearly shows and becomes unbearable when her former intended shows with his new wife. Unable to bear it any longer Mairi makes a decision that will put her life in danger. What follows reveals lies, manipulation, and events that prove Mairi is stronger than she thinks.
Och, the last thing Laird Duncan, Dunn, MacRae needed was the spoiled chit that he once offered marriage to only have her and her father belittle his request. That alone should have hardened his heart to her but oh, how sad she looks. Dunn is determined to put her from his mind and heart and concentrate on winning the Highland Games. That is until the lady makes a hasty departure that could cost her her life. Without hesitation Dunn rides to her rescue and spirits her away to safety until he can safely return her home. Though good intentions can come at a cost and this may just cost him his head and his heart.
Oh, how Mairi’s devastation and sadness and Dunn’s heartache and love jump off the pages! Add in a villain, adventure, and anticipation and you have a love story for the ages. Definitely in my top stories of the year. Thank you, Ms. Jarecki!!
Devastated at having what she thought her life would be torn from her, Lady Mairi MacKenzie wants nothing more than to remain in her home. Alas, her father will not have it and forces her to attend the Highland Games. Poor Mairi’s devastation clearly shows and becomes unbearable when her former intended shows with his new wife. Unable to bear it any longer Mairi makes a decision that will put her life in danger. What follows reveals lies, manipulation, and events that prove Mairi is stronger than she thinks.
Och, the last thing Laird Duncan, Dunn, MacRae needed was the spoiled chit that he once offered marriage to only have her and her father belittle his request. That alone should have hardened his heart to her but oh, how sad she looks. Dunn is determined to put her from his mind and heart and concentrate on winning the Highland Games. That is until the lady makes a hasty departure that could cost her her life. Without hesitation Dunn rides to her rescue and spirits her away to safety until he can safely return her home. Though good intentions can come at a cost and this may just cost him his head and his heart.
Oh, how Mairi’s devastation and sadness and Dunn’s heartache and love jump off the pages! Add in a villain, adventure, and anticipation and you have a love story for the ages. Definitely in my top stories of the year. Thank you, Ms. Jarecki!!
October 28, 2018
Reviewed by Rachel
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I adore Amy Jarecki books, and this one, naturally was no different. If you’re a fan of big Scottish Highlanders then this, my friend, is right down your alley.
With amazing prose, detailed descriptions of everything that somehow makes the book less boring and more interesting (like magic I now), and incredible love scenes that will have you grinning from ear to ear. And that’s just the first few chapters 🙂 Her books always captivate me from the start. This one was no different.
After being jilted at the altar, Mairi is devastated, and like an idiot Duncan decides that the best path to take is to offer for her hand and “rescue” her, but Mairi has a mind of her own and since when has she ever needed rescued? I love that you have this very contemporary love/hate relationship from the beginning. He’s always pined for her and she’s only ever thrown him breadcrumbs, and now he wants to be the white knight. I love how strong of a character she is, that she doesn’t need saving, nope she saves herself and she’s good for it too. She secretly pines for him and when they are forced to spend time together after her injury and a surprise attack, you can see that both of them are done avoiding their feelings. The sexual tension leaps off the pages and the obsession they have with each others eyes 😉 Swoon.
I loved every part of it and I know anyone who adores Scottish Romance will too. Great historical detail is always an added bonus and Amy knows just the right amount to include to set the scene but not pull the reader out of the story. Well done, five roses.
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I adore Amy Jarecki books, and this one, naturally was no different. If you’re a fan of big Scottish Highlanders then this, my friend, is right down your alley.
With amazing prose, detailed descriptions of everything that somehow makes the book less boring and more interesting (like magic I now), and incredible love scenes that will have you grinning from ear to ear. And that’s just the first few chapters 🙂 Her books always captivate me from the start. This one was no different.
After being jilted at the altar, Mairi is devastated, and like an idiot Duncan decides that the best path to take is to offer for her hand and “rescue” her, but Mairi has a mind of her own and since when has she ever needed rescued? I love that you have this very contemporary love/hate relationship from the beginning. He’s always pined for her and she’s only ever thrown him breadcrumbs, and now he wants to be the white knight. I love how strong of a character she is, that she doesn’t need saving, nope she saves herself and she’s good for it too. She secretly pines for him and when they are forced to spend time together after her injury and a surprise attack, you can see that both of them are done avoiding their feelings. The sexual tension leaps off the pages and the obsession they have with each others eyes 😉 Swoon.
I loved every part of it and I know anyone who adores Scottish Romance will too. Great historical detail is always an added bonus and Amy knows just the right amount to include to set the scene but not pull the reader out of the story. Well done, five roses.
June 9, 2018
I absolutely loved this latest highland romance from Amy Jarecki. From the first page I was hooked on this story, characters, and intrigue. I didn't want to put it down.
The main couple in this story were Dunn and Mairi. The pair had been attracted to each other forever but their signals kept getting crossed, especially thanks to Mairi's ambitious father who thought she was too good for a mere Scottish Laird. Mairi didn't think that way but after being jilted by her fiance she wasn't as confident as she should've been ; so when Dunn proposed she turned him down flat. Needless to say this caused some hard feelings between them as the story began.
I might've had a few problems with Mairi's character in the first part of the book but she soon changed my mind. I just wish that she would've realized the truth about her father before he made it so hard on poor Dunn. Still, set amidst the rich backdrop of the Jacobite Rebellion the tension in the story was excellent. I thought that Dunn was an amazing hero ! Hands down. He was one of the best.
So if you love reading romance with daring Highlanders and spunky lasses then this book is definitely not to be missed. I can't wait for the next book in the Lords Of The Highlands series.
I am voluntarily reviewing a complimentary Netgalley copy of this book.
August 21, 2018
This fourth installment of the Lords of the Highlands series did not disappoint me. It was an interesting story, the characters likeable, the setting fascinating and the plot was well-planned. What it lacked, to me, was just something more.
I've enjoyed this whole series, but I kind of felt this one lacked a little something the others had. I didn't get the historical aspect this time around as I did in the others. The conflict resolved without much fanfare.
I've enjoyed this whole series, but I kind of felt this one lacked a little something the others had. I didn't get the historical aspect this time around as I did in the others. The conflict resolved without much fanfare.
Read
April 18, 2025DNF’d @ 17%
there was nothing wrong with this book — it just wasn’t sparking joy, and life is too short to force myself to read something i wasn’t enjoying.
also, don’t really remember acquiring this book?? so it will get donated and i am sure it will spark a lot of joy for another
there was nothing wrong with this book — it just wasn’t sparking joy, and life is too short to force myself to read something i wasn’t enjoying.
also, don’t really remember acquiring this book?? so it will get donated and i am sure it will spark a lot of joy for another
August 21, 2018
The Highland Chieftain is my first introduction to Any Jarecki. I thought it was good and will be looking for more from her.
3 1/2 stars.
3 1/2 stars.
January 9, 2020
I didn’t like Seaford at all in this book. Dunn and Mairi had the worst of luck at every turn.
March 20, 2019
Maybe historical romance novels just aren't my thing! The prose in this hurt my head at times (see: "her wee button", "nay", "bonny, bonny, bonny..."), and the sex scenes were... awkward and VERY unrealistic. Combined with a lack of development in the characters, this book was sort of tedious to get through. I think the only thing that kept me going was the descriptions of the different settings and the history peppered in- like thoughts about the Jacobites and Queen Anne.
June 3, 2019
Just super basic and not even a very involved plot.
September 16, 2018
Book: The Highland Chieftain by Amy Jarecki
Series: Lords of the Highlands, Book #4
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
1)Tartan Book Reviews
2)Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3)Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars/Kilts
Scotland 1711
En route to Urqhart Castle
Mari MacKenzie has been rejected and her tender heart has been shredded into pieces. As her betrothed goes and marries his ward. A man she has been betrothed since childhood. Just thrown away like a piece of garbage by her betrothed! Totally humiliated and ruined, yet her Da still expects her to move on and go out in public to another fete with music dancing and eligible young men! She knows all the gossips and old biddies will be talking about her humiliation! It was the last thing she wanted to do, but she was a dutiful Earls daughter after all. Her Da just wanted her to move on and cheer up already, to mend his lassies broken heart.
On their way a rider stopped their coach it was Laird Dunn MacRae. A braw rogue that gave her butterflies. Yet she feels he just feels sorry for her by his half feeling proposal and doesn’t feel any real feelings for Mairi.
Dunn has been in love with Mairi since she was a lass of 15. He never acted on his feelings due to his allegiance to her former betrothed. Yet after that relationship ended, he revisited his feelings and offered to court Mairi, with the intentions of marrying her. Her father the Earl, flat out rejected Dunn cruelly! He told him Mairi could do much better than the likes of him! As if Dunn were a piece of dirt on the bottom of his boot. Dunn was furious and having his heart destroyed! He swore he would have nothing further to do with Mairi MacKenzie again! Yet her father felt he was not a nobleman or titled, was not good enough for his daughter rejected Dunn flat. Mairi doesn’t believe Dunn’s feelings are sincere and he’s only offering out of pity and feeling sorry for her!
As they both attend the Highland games they both stay far away from one another. Dunn due to her father’s rejection of him not being good enough. Mairi feeling he only offered because he feels sorry for the rejected lass. Yes he is a hardened warrior with many responsibilities, but he’s always had a soft tender spot for Mairi. Then she is abducted by the bloody English redcoats and he will do anything to get her back.
Mairi’s father is sure it is is Dunn who has kidnapped Mairi and puts a price on his head! Offering him captured dead or alive! Dunn will do anything to rescue and get Mairi out of danger.
As they soon spend time together and straighten out their misunderstandings. Their feelings turn to love but her father is still a big obstacle just as the redcoats are. Who will win this battle of the heart for these star crossed lovers?
A fast paced page turner with non stop action! Another riveting Amy Jarecki adventure that is full of emotion, rejection, betrayal, suspense
mystery, treachery, misunderstandings,hatred,
broken hearts, abduction and so much more. In addition rescue, forgiveness, faith mending hearts, passion and love.
Amy Jarecki pens another beautiful novel from start to finish. It has all the elements Scottish historical readers like myself love. I loved it even more since my true Scottish ancestors the MacRaes are one of the hero’s. That just made my heart race and gave my own stomach butterflies!
The setting and dialogue was phenomenal, characters were magnificent and the plotting was brilliant! This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highlands series. A book you definitely want to read! You can easily read this as a stand alone book or in series order.
It really is a beautiful story that any reader would love. I highly recommend The Highland Chieftain by Amy Jarecki
Lords of the Highlands
By Amy Jarecki
The Highland Duke
The Highland Commander
The Highland Guardian
The Highland Chieftain
Amazon Buy Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Chief...
I received this book From Grand Central Forever publishers 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.
Series: Lords of the Highlands, Book #4
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
1)Tartan Book Reviews
2)Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3)Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars/Kilts
Scotland 1711
En route to Urqhart Castle
Mari MacKenzie has been rejected and her tender heart has been shredded into pieces. As her betrothed goes and marries his ward. A man she has been betrothed since childhood. Just thrown away like a piece of garbage by her betrothed! Totally humiliated and ruined, yet her Da still expects her to move on and go out in public to another fete with music dancing and eligible young men! She knows all the gossips and old biddies will be talking about her humiliation! It was the last thing she wanted to do, but she was a dutiful Earls daughter after all. Her Da just wanted her to move on and cheer up already, to mend his lassies broken heart.
On their way a rider stopped their coach it was Laird Dunn MacRae. A braw rogue that gave her butterflies. Yet she feels he just feels sorry for her by his half feeling proposal and doesn’t feel any real feelings for Mairi.
Dunn has been in love with Mairi since she was a lass of 15. He never acted on his feelings due to his allegiance to her former betrothed. Yet after that relationship ended, he revisited his feelings and offered to court Mairi, with the intentions of marrying her. Her father the Earl, flat out rejected Dunn cruelly! He told him Mairi could do much better than the likes of him! As if Dunn were a piece of dirt on the bottom of his boot. Dunn was furious and having his heart destroyed! He swore he would have nothing further to do with Mairi MacKenzie again! Yet her father felt he was not a nobleman or titled, was not good enough for his daughter rejected Dunn flat. Mairi doesn’t believe Dunn’s feelings are sincere and he’s only offering out of pity and feeling sorry for her!
As they both attend the Highland games they both stay far away from one another. Dunn due to her father’s rejection of him not being good enough. Mairi feeling he only offered because he feels sorry for the rejected lass. Yes he is a hardened warrior with many responsibilities, but he’s always had a soft tender spot for Mairi. Then she is abducted by the bloody English redcoats and he will do anything to get her back.
Mairi’s father is sure it is is Dunn who has kidnapped Mairi and puts a price on his head! Offering him captured dead or alive! Dunn will do anything to rescue and get Mairi out of danger.
As they soon spend time together and straighten out their misunderstandings. Their feelings turn to love but her father is still a big obstacle just as the redcoats are. Who will win this battle of the heart for these star crossed lovers?
A fast paced page turner with non stop action! Another riveting Amy Jarecki adventure that is full of emotion, rejection, betrayal, suspense
mystery, treachery, misunderstandings,hatred,
broken hearts, abduction and so much more. In addition rescue, forgiveness, faith mending hearts, passion and love.
Amy Jarecki pens another beautiful novel from start to finish. It has all the elements Scottish historical readers like myself love. I loved it even more since my true Scottish ancestors the MacRaes are one of the hero’s. That just made my heart race and gave my own stomach butterflies!
The setting and dialogue was phenomenal, characters were magnificent and the plotting was brilliant! This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highlands series. A book you definitely want to read! You can easily read this as a stand alone book or in series order.
It really is a beautiful story that any reader would love. I highly recommend The Highland Chieftain by Amy Jarecki
Lords of the Highlands
By Amy Jarecki
The Highland Duke
The Highland Commander
The Highland Guardian
The Highland Chieftain
Amazon Buy Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Chief...
I received this book From Grand Central Forever publishers 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.
September 16, 2018
This is my first Amy Jarecki book and whilst the story started out promising at first, it was lagging from the second half of the book.
Dunn is the Laird of the MacRae clan and Mairi is the daughter of an earl. Mairi was promised from birth to marry a powerful earl. When she came of age, the earl rescinded his betrothal. Dunn had always harbored tender feelings for Mairi since he first saw her at the age of 15 but since she was promised to another, there was nothing he could do until now after her betrothal got broken. He asked for her hand and her father refused him because her father wants to further his alliances and he is looking for a peer for his daughter and not a Laird. Dunn saved Mairi from some redcoats who had wanted to abuse her and took her to safety in the highlands. Mairi started to develop feelings for the braw highlander but her father is trying to separate them. Thus begin a journey of fleeing and hiding for them. But soon her father catches up to them. And he is trying his utmost best to separate them.
There are a number of things that I find lacking and in error with this book from my personal point of view:
1. The amount of times Dunn utter ‘Jesus Saint Christopher Christ’. It is so monotonous and redundant in this book, the author could have used other choiced words instead of repeating this line over and over.
2. Mairi is a weak heroine caught between her father, Dunn and her broken betrothal to the earl of seaforth. I like fiery highland lassies who can hold their own and know their strength. Mairi is just a pawn with no backbone. She sent Dunn to the gaol because of her own stupidity.
3. Dunn is the Laird of a powerful highland clan and his ancestors promised to protect the earl of seaforth. I feel he did not get his due and respect owed to him because the author keep repeating Dunn pledged his fealty to Seaforth and it feels like Dunn is always in seaforth’s shadow rather than a man in his own right.
4. The climax of the story is so flat it’s not even worth talking about. Mairi’s father was climbing high and low to do everything in his power to separate them throughout the book and at the end when you expect an explosive edge of your seat climax, he just let them go without putting up a fight! Why go to all those pains throughout the book only to let them go peacefully at then end? The ending of this book was so disappointing!!!
Thus my ⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for this book!
Dunn is the Laird of the MacRae clan and Mairi is the daughter of an earl. Mairi was promised from birth to marry a powerful earl. When she came of age, the earl rescinded his betrothal. Dunn had always harbored tender feelings for Mairi since he first saw her at the age of 15 but since she was promised to another, there was nothing he could do until now after her betrothal got broken. He asked for her hand and her father refused him because her father wants to further his alliances and he is looking for a peer for his daughter and not a Laird. Dunn saved Mairi from some redcoats who had wanted to abuse her and took her to safety in the highlands. Mairi started to develop feelings for the braw highlander but her father is trying to separate them. Thus begin a journey of fleeing and hiding for them. But soon her father catches up to them. And he is trying his utmost best to separate them.
There are a number of things that I find lacking and in error with this book from my personal point of view:
1. The amount of times Dunn utter ‘Jesus Saint Christopher Christ’. It is so monotonous and redundant in this book, the author could have used other choiced words instead of repeating this line over and over.
2. Mairi is a weak heroine caught between her father, Dunn and her broken betrothal to the earl of seaforth. I like fiery highland lassies who can hold their own and know their strength. Mairi is just a pawn with no backbone. She sent Dunn to the gaol because of her own stupidity.
3. Dunn is the Laird of a powerful highland clan and his ancestors promised to protect the earl of seaforth. I feel he did not get his due and respect owed to him because the author keep repeating Dunn pledged his fealty to Seaforth and it feels like Dunn is always in seaforth’s shadow rather than a man in his own right.
4. The climax of the story is so flat it’s not even worth talking about. Mairi’s father was climbing high and low to do everything in his power to separate them throughout the book and at the end when you expect an explosive edge of your seat climax, he just let them go without putting up a fight! Why go to all those pains throughout the book only to let them go peacefully at then end? The ending of this book was so disappointing!!!
Thus my ⭐️⭐️⭐️ review for this book!
December 6, 2018
Mairi sees her life in shambles. I see she is her own worst enemy when it comes to self-esteem.
She was betrothed as a young child to a boy child destined to be the earl of Seaforth, and her life was planned for her, which made life pretty easy, and rather suited her. But the unbelievable happens – the groom to-be breaks off the betrothal to marry someone else. Mairi is beyond humiliated, wishing to stay home and never show her face in society again--from the butterfly of the party to a dismal existence.
A certain Duncan MacRae, chieftain of Clan MacRae obviously had felt sorry for her because he asked for her hand. She only became further embarrassed. She would take no pity from someone who only would pick up the shattered pieces of her existence. Her father made that clear to her – the man only felt sorry for her.
Her father forces her to go with him to a gathering at Urqhart Castle. He wants her to marry well – perhaps a peer of the peerage. He will force her hand if necessary!
Duncan MacRae, even though a chieftain, who works to protect Seaforth and family has always been smitten by the spitfire, Mairi. She is so vivacious. When Seaforth begged off on the marriage, Duncan presented himself to her father to ask for her hand. Alas, she was not to be his.
Duncan is part of the festivities at Urqhart Castle and can’t keep his eyes off Mairi. While in the middle of the games, redcoats show up itching to make trouble and trouble they bring.
Where is Mairi? She traipses off into the forest just before they show up. Duncan notes redcoats take the same path.
Duncan isn’t in control of his emotions as he chases the men. He finds Mairi with her skirts up around her waist fighting off three lewd men.
This scene is terribly exciting as danger surrounds Mairi and now Duncan for having killed three men. He wants to keep Mairi’s reputation and honor intact, but as events unfold, it begins more and more difficult to do so.
Author Amy Jarecki keeps the tension coiling as they are chased through the highlands, but a Highlander knows his way better than any Redcoat while a Highland lassie pulls strength from her innerself. Now Mairi’s father is working against Duncan The man who saves his daughter is now being hunted with a bounty on his head!
You will simply love this nail-biting tale. I, as a reader, highly recommend Jarecki’s work. Don’t miss the rest of the series. She'll keep you entranced.
She was betrothed as a young child to a boy child destined to be the earl of Seaforth, and her life was planned for her, which made life pretty easy, and rather suited her. But the unbelievable happens – the groom to-be breaks off the betrothal to marry someone else. Mairi is beyond humiliated, wishing to stay home and never show her face in society again--from the butterfly of the party to a dismal existence.
A certain Duncan MacRae, chieftain of Clan MacRae obviously had felt sorry for her because he asked for her hand. She only became further embarrassed. She would take no pity from someone who only would pick up the shattered pieces of her existence. Her father made that clear to her – the man only felt sorry for her.
Her father forces her to go with him to a gathering at Urqhart Castle. He wants her to marry well – perhaps a peer of the peerage. He will force her hand if necessary!
Duncan MacRae, even though a chieftain, who works to protect Seaforth and family has always been smitten by the spitfire, Mairi. She is so vivacious. When Seaforth begged off on the marriage, Duncan presented himself to her father to ask for her hand. Alas, she was not to be his.
Duncan is part of the festivities at Urqhart Castle and can’t keep his eyes off Mairi. While in the middle of the games, redcoats show up itching to make trouble and trouble they bring.
Where is Mairi? She traipses off into the forest just before they show up. Duncan notes redcoats take the same path.
Duncan isn’t in control of his emotions as he chases the men. He finds Mairi with her skirts up around her waist fighting off three lewd men.
This scene is terribly exciting as danger surrounds Mairi and now Duncan for having killed three men. He wants to keep Mairi’s reputation and honor intact, but as events unfold, it begins more and more difficult to do so.
Author Amy Jarecki keeps the tension coiling as they are chased through the highlands, but a Highlander knows his way better than any Redcoat while a Highland lassie pulls strength from her innerself. Now Mairi’s father is working against Duncan The man who saves his daughter is now being hunted with a bounty on his head!
You will simply love this nail-biting tale. I, as a reader, highly recommend Jarecki’s work. Don’t miss the rest of the series. She'll keep you entranced.
January 23, 2023
I accidentally read these out of order. I read "The Highland Renegade" first, but it didn't ruin this story at all and only gave a small spoiler for me. They seem like a nice set of books that can be read at leisure without worrying about order, which is nice.
I've only read two of her books so far, but they both had very similar feels and flows to them. Usually, that would drive me insane but for some reason, I felt comforted knowing she wasn't going to throw any of my major triggers in here. It gave me the freedom to enjoy the book instead of being wary of what the "bad guys" were going to do.
This one also felt different from the other one because of the MMC (main male character), Dunn. He's very romantic in his actions, which was different from the last one. He was still just as respectful of the FMC (female main character) as the last one was, but I was laughing out loud at the way he talked and chided himself. I loved it. I also enjoyed how he knew she was sheltered and treated like a princess and therefore couldn't do anything on her own. He didn't judge her for it but actually loved her more for it. He never expected her to be more than she was. He took everything on her time and remained true.
There were a couple of times when the FMC, Mairi, was super dainty and definitely could have done a bit more to help the man she loves, but it all worked out in the end. At least with this book, she confesses why she's upset within a few pages instead of letting it hamper their progress in the romance department.
The love scenes mirrored her other books and gave us hot and heavy stuff in a respectful way.
All in all I'll be keeping an eye out for her other books
Trigger Warnings:
I've only read two of her books so far, but they both had very similar feels and flows to them. Usually, that would drive me insane but for some reason, I felt comforted knowing she wasn't going to throw any of my major triggers in here. It gave me the freedom to enjoy the book instead of being wary of what the "bad guys" were going to do.
This one also felt different from the other one because of the MMC (main male character), Dunn. He's very romantic in his actions, which was different from the last one. He was still just as respectful of the FMC (female main character) as the last one was, but I was laughing out loud at the way he talked and chided himself. I loved it. I also enjoyed how he knew she was sheltered and treated like a princess and therefore couldn't do anything on her own. He didn't judge her for it but actually loved her more for it. He never expected her to be more than she was. He took everything on her time and remained true.
There were a couple of times when the FMC, Mairi, was super dainty and definitely could have done a bit more to help the man she loves, but it all worked out in the end. At least with this book, she confesses why she's upset within a few pages instead of letting it hamper their progress in the romance department.
The love scenes mirrored her other books and gave us hot and heavy stuff in a respectful way.
All in all I'll be keeping an eye out for her other books
Trigger Warnings:
December 22, 2018
Please see all of my reviews on my blog at https://www.robinlovesreading.com.
Lady Mairi MacKenzie most certainly feels slighted, to say the least, when she is jilted from her betrothed, who was Reid MacKenzie from The Highland Guardian. But she certainly is not desperate enough to accept what she feels is an insincere marriage proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. In all honesty, Mairi has always desired Dunn. He may be utterly irresistible to her with all of his potent maleness but he is not a nobleman. He is beyond stung by her rejection.
Mairi is suddenly attacked by Redcoats and Dunn spirits her away in order to save her life. He will die before he allows anything to happen to her. They must be in close quarters in order for Dunn to protect Mairi. The fight is on.
The descriptions Amy Jarecki uses to describe Dunn is certain to make any woman swoon - that and the mouth-watering book cover. Beyond his physical appeal, he has a heart of gold. I love a hero who has no problem whatsoever expressing his feelings, and often. I have read all four of Highland books so far, and Dunn is most certainly my favorite hero.
I couldn’t help but feel really bad for Mairi, especially when it comes to her dealings with her father. He is a despicable man. Despite what Mairi must cope with, she is not a simpering female. She has immense strength of character and gives as well as she takes.
This is a fast-paced story with lots of danger, action and adventure. The steam in this story is definitely off the charts. I devoured this book in one sitting and recommend it to lovers of highland romances. It is a very compelling read.
This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highland series. The other books that have been released are, The Highland Duke, The Highland Commander and The Highland Guardian. The Highland Renegade and The Highland Earl are due for publication in 2019.
Lady Mairi MacKenzie most certainly feels slighted, to say the least, when she is jilted from her betrothed, who was Reid MacKenzie from The Highland Guardian. But she certainly is not desperate enough to accept what she feels is an insincere marriage proposal from Laird Duncan MacRae. In all honesty, Mairi has always desired Dunn. He may be utterly irresistible to her with all of his potent maleness but he is not a nobleman. He is beyond stung by her rejection.
Mairi is suddenly attacked by Redcoats and Dunn spirits her away in order to save her life. He will die before he allows anything to happen to her. They must be in close quarters in order for Dunn to protect Mairi. The fight is on.
The descriptions Amy Jarecki uses to describe Dunn is certain to make any woman swoon - that and the mouth-watering book cover. Beyond his physical appeal, he has a heart of gold. I love a hero who has no problem whatsoever expressing his feelings, and often. I have read all four of Highland books so far, and Dunn is most certainly my favorite hero.
I couldn’t help but feel really bad for Mairi, especially when it comes to her dealings with her father. He is a despicable man. Despite what Mairi must cope with, she is not a simpering female. She has immense strength of character and gives as well as she takes.
This is a fast-paced story with lots of danger, action and adventure. The steam in this story is definitely off the charts. I devoured this book in one sitting and recommend it to lovers of highland romances. It is a very compelling read.
This is the fourth book in the Lords of the Highland series. The other books that have been released are, The Highland Duke, The Highland Commander and The Highland Guardian. The Highland Renegade and The Highland Earl are due for publication in 2019.
September 17, 2018
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Going to try a different way to write the review so please let me know if it works.
Plot: The book had a good plot and storyline. It isn’t just one where we have insta-romance and they fall into each other arms. We see our two main characters, Dunn and Mairi, with different lives but coming together due to one incident. That incident thrusts them into danger and Mairi finding out who Dunn truly is but also sees a different side to her father. A side that is hard to swallow. A nice twisty adventurous plot and story.
Romance: A slow burn as Dunn figures out how to show Mairi who he is while not overwhelming her with his feelings. Mairi must discover herself and her strength before she can think of love and it is Dunn who helps her with this. We have great chemistry between them but also a nice interaction where they discover each other in a somewhat natural progression under the circumstances.
Characters: Love Dunn he is gruff around the edges but kind, smart and loyal. He encourages and respects Mairi as well as loves her and wants her as a partner and equal. Mairi is learning who she is and finding her way. When I first began the story she wasn’t my favorite because of how she thought of Dunn but you do find out why and you growl. Over time you see what Dunn sees in her and you fall in love like he does. Her father though you understand where he is coming from a little bit you can’t quite excuse his actions. He loses sight of what truly matters and I was angry with him.
Overall: The story flowed nicely and had a plot and story that keeps you in the book. You get a romance filled with danger and discovery. Discovery of ones self, of others and of your feelings. Dunn and Mairi captivate you with their story and how they find their way to one another and fight for each other and their love.
Going to try a different way to write the review so please let me know if it works.
Plot: The book had a good plot and storyline. It isn’t just one where we have insta-romance and they fall into each other arms. We see our two main characters, Dunn and Mairi, with different lives but coming together due to one incident. That incident thrusts them into danger and Mairi finding out who Dunn truly is but also sees a different side to her father. A side that is hard to swallow. A nice twisty adventurous plot and story.
Romance: A slow burn as Dunn figures out how to show Mairi who he is while not overwhelming her with his feelings. Mairi must discover herself and her strength before she can think of love and it is Dunn who helps her with this. We have great chemistry between them but also a nice interaction where they discover each other in a somewhat natural progression under the circumstances.
Characters: Love Dunn he is gruff around the edges but kind, smart and loyal. He encourages and respects Mairi as well as loves her and wants her as a partner and equal. Mairi is learning who she is and finding her way. When I first began the story she wasn’t my favorite because of how she thought of Dunn but you do find out why and you growl. Over time you see what Dunn sees in her and you fall in love like he does. Her father though you understand where he is coming from a little bit you can’t quite excuse his actions. He loses sight of what truly matters and I was angry with him.
Overall: The story flowed nicely and had a plot and story that keeps you in the book. You get a romance filled with danger and discovery. Discovery of ones self, of others and of your feelings. Dunn and Mairi captivate you with their story and how they find their way to one another and fight for each other and their love.
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