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The Pennington Family #1.5
Sweet Home Highland Christmas
Freya Sutherland is a desperate aunt trying to keep custody of her precocious young niece, Ella. After the death of her father, Freya is willing to do anything to prove she's capable of being Ella's guardian, even if if means marrying for security instead of love.
Recently retired from the military, Captain Gregory Pennington wants nothing more than to make it home in time for Christmas. When his brother hears of his plans to return to the family estate for the holidays, he asks Penn to escort some travelers to the bordering estate.
When Freya and Penn meet their chemistry is instant. Once they realize he's their escort for the journey, there's no escaping their attraction. But Penn has plans that do not include a wife and child. And Freya has responsibilities as Ella's guardian, no matter her growing discontent with her upcoming marriage. With Ella conspiring to get them together, Penn and Freya might just experience a little magic during the holidays.
Recently retired from the military, Captain Gregory Pennington wants nothing more than to make it home in time for Christmas. When his brother hears of his plans to return to the family estate for the holidays, he asks Penn to escort some travelers to the bordering estate.
When Freya and Penn meet their chemistry is instant. Once they realize he's their escort for the journey, there's no escaping their attraction. But Penn has plans that do not include a wife and child. And Freya has responsibilities as Ella's guardian, no matter her growing discontent with her upcoming marriage. With Ella conspiring to get them together, Penn and Freya might just experience a little magic during the holidays.
104 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2017
57 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
May McGoldrick
577 books503 followersMay McGoldrick, Nik James, and Jan Coffey are pen names for USA Today bestselling authors Nikoo Kafi and Jim McGoldrick. Together, they have crafted over fifty fast-paced, conflict-filled historical, contemporary, and Western novels, and two works of nonfiction.
Nikoo’s education and training was in engineering. She worked in robotics and submarine shipbuilding. Before earning a PhD in sixteenth-century Scottish and English literature, Jim pursued a hundred and one jobs, including a decade in submarine construction.
Storytellers at heart, Nikoo and Jim were always searching for careers that gave them time for both family and writing. Then, after thirteen years of marriage, they recognized each other’s creative strengths. Nikoo is all about characters and feeling. Jim is about action and sense of place. Their first attempt in writing fiction together produced their award-winning novel, The Thistle and the Rose. Since then, their stories have touched the hearts and minds of millions of readers all over the world. Their work has been translated into over a dozen languages and counting.
Nikoo and Jim are four-time Rita Finalists and the winners of numerous awards for their writing, including the Daphne DeMaurier Award for Excellence, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award, three NJRW Golden Leaf Awards, two Holt Medallions, and the Connecticut Press Club Award for Best Fiction.
The authors make their home in California.
Here is a complete catalogue of May McGoldrick, Nik James and Jan Coffey’s work, in chronological order.
Each book stands on its own.
MAY McGOLDRICK
Macpherson Clan Series
The Thistle and the Rose
A Midsummer Wedding (novella)
Angel of Skye
Heart of Gold
Beauty of the Mist
The Intended
Flame
Tess and the Highlander
The Dreamer (Highland Treasure)
The Enchantress (Highland Treasure)
The Firebrand (Highland Treasure)
Much Ado About Highlanders (Scottish Relic)
Taming the Highlander (Scottish Relic)
Tempest in the Highlands (Scottish Relic)
Arsenic and Old Armor
---
Pennington Family Series
The Promise
The Rebel
Borrowed Dreams
Captured Dreams
Dreams of Destiny
Romancing the Scot
It Happened in the Highlands
Sweet Home Highland Christmas (novella)
Sleepless in Scotland
Dearest Millie (novella)
How to Ditch a Duke (novella)
---
Royal Highlander Series
Highland Crown
Highland Jewel
Highland Sword
---
A Prince in the Pantry (novella)
Ghost of the Thames
---
Made in Heaven
Thanksgiving in Connecticut (novella)
NIK JAMES
The Winter Road (novella)
High Country Justice
Bullets and Silver
Silver Trail Christmas
JAN COFFEY
Trust Me Once
Twice Burned
Triple Threat
Fourth Victim
Five in a Row
Silent Waters
Cross Wired
The Janus Effect
The Puppet Master
Blind Eye
Road Kill
Mercy (novella)
Tropical Kiss
Aquarian
When the Mirror Cracks
NONFICTION
Marriage of Minds: Collaborative Fiction Writing
Step Write Up: Writing Exercises for 21st Century
---
Sign up for the May McGoldrick, Nik James, Jan Coffey Newsletter
https://www.maymcgoldrick.com/contact-us
---
Visit their author websites
www.MayMcGoldrick.com
www.NikJamesAuthor.com
www.JanCoffey.com
https://www.facebook.com/MayMcGoldrick/
https://twitter.com/MayMcGoldrick
https://www.instagram.com/maymcgoldrick/
Nikoo’s education and training was in engineering. She worked in robotics and submarine shipbuilding. Before earning a PhD in sixteenth-century Scottish and English literature, Jim pursued a hundred and one jobs, including a decade in submarine construction.
Storytellers at heart, Nikoo and Jim were always searching for careers that gave them time for both family and writing. Then, after thirteen years of marriage, they recognized each other’s creative strengths. Nikoo is all about characters and feeling. Jim is about action and sense of place. Their first attempt in writing fiction together produced their award-winning novel, The Thistle and the Rose. Since then, their stories have touched the hearts and minds of millions of readers all over the world. Their work has been translated into over a dozen languages and counting.
Nikoo and Jim are four-time Rita Finalists and the winners of numerous awards for their writing, including the Daphne DeMaurier Award for Excellence, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award, three NJRW Golden Leaf Awards, two Holt Medallions, and the Connecticut Press Club Award for Best Fiction.
The authors make their home in California.
Here is a complete catalogue of May McGoldrick, Nik James and Jan Coffey’s work, in chronological order.
Each book stands on its own.
MAY McGOLDRICK
Macpherson Clan Series
The Thistle and the Rose
A Midsummer Wedding (novella)
Angel of Skye
Heart of Gold
Beauty of the Mist
The Intended
Flame
Tess and the Highlander
The Dreamer (Highland Treasure)
The Enchantress (Highland Treasure)
The Firebrand (Highland Treasure)
Much Ado About Highlanders (Scottish Relic)
Taming the Highlander (Scottish Relic)
Tempest in the Highlands (Scottish Relic)
Arsenic and Old Armor
---
Pennington Family Series
The Promise
The Rebel
Borrowed Dreams
Captured Dreams
Dreams of Destiny
Romancing the Scot
It Happened in the Highlands
Sweet Home Highland Christmas (novella)
Sleepless in Scotland
Dearest Millie (novella)
How to Ditch a Duke (novella)
---
Royal Highlander Series
Highland Crown
Highland Jewel
Highland Sword
---
A Prince in the Pantry (novella)
Ghost of the Thames
---
Made in Heaven
Thanksgiving in Connecticut (novella)
NIK JAMES
The Winter Road (novella)
High Country Justice
Bullets and Silver
Silver Trail Christmas
JAN COFFEY
Trust Me Once
Twice Burned
Triple Threat
Fourth Victim
Five in a Row
Silent Waters
Cross Wired
The Janus Effect
The Puppet Master
Blind Eye
Road Kill
Mercy (novella)
Tropical Kiss
Aquarian
When the Mirror Cracks
NONFICTION
Marriage of Minds: Collaborative Fiction Writing
Step Write Up: Writing Exercises for 21st Century
---
Sign up for the May McGoldrick, Nik James, Jan Coffey Newsletter
https://www.maymcgoldrick.com/contact-us
---
Visit their author websites
www.MayMcGoldrick.com
www.NikJamesAuthor.com
www.JanCoffey.com
https://www.facebook.com/MayMcGoldrick/
https://twitter.com/MayMcGoldrick
https://www.instagram.com/maymcgoldrick/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 24, 2019
Sweet Home Highland Christmas was a delightful read and a wonderful addition to The Pennington Family series.
Freya’s entire world for the past five years has been about taking care of Ella, the daughter of her older sister who passed away a week after Ella’s birth. When Ella’s father’s family suddenly becomes interested in her welfare, Freya must do whatever she can in order to secure Ella’s guardianship. Set to travel to their estate, Freya and Ella are joined by Captain Gregory Pennington who has been asked to escort them on their journey. But when Freya and Gregory meet, their attraction is immediate throwing their plans into chaos.
Freya has essentially become a mother to Ella in the five years she’s been caring for her and she loves her as if she were her own. Freya is willing to do anything to keep Ella and is even willing to go so far as marry someone she doesn't love to provide a secure future for her. Freya is an incredibly kind and caring person and I admired how far she was willing to go for someone she loved. Her relationship with Ella is very sweet and I found myself enjoying Ella even when I don’t usually like kids in my romance novels.
As a second son, Gregory knew he needed to forge his own path so he became an engineer in the military. With the war with France now over, Gregory is trying to find his place in the world and is considering giving up his position to move to America to design it’s cities. I connected a lot with Gregory in regards to his difficulty knowing where he belonged in the world. I enjoyed watching him discover what he truly wanted out of life and was happy to see him get it.
Freya and Gregory’s attraction to one another is immediate although neither of them knows what to do about it at first. With plans for the future that would take them in different directions, their relationship starts off a bit slowly but they come to trust one another fairly quickly after spending more time together. I found their relationship to be very sweet and I enjoyed watching them fall in love while getting to know each other. The physical chemistry between them is off the charts and I very much enjoyed the scenes where they found time to be alone.
Despite its short length, Sweet Home Highland Christmas packs a lot into 100 pages and was a fun read from start to finish. I highly recommend The Pennington Family series to anyone looking for a historical romance series to read that’s set in the highlands.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Freya’s entire world for the past five years has been about taking care of Ella, the daughter of her older sister who passed away a week after Ella’s birth. When Ella’s father’s family suddenly becomes interested in her welfare, Freya must do whatever she can in order to secure Ella’s guardianship. Set to travel to their estate, Freya and Ella are joined by Captain Gregory Pennington who has been asked to escort them on their journey. But when Freya and Gregory meet, their attraction is immediate throwing their plans into chaos.
Freya has essentially become a mother to Ella in the five years she’s been caring for her and she loves her as if she were her own. Freya is willing to do anything to keep Ella and is even willing to go so far as marry someone she doesn't love to provide a secure future for her. Freya is an incredibly kind and caring person and I admired how far she was willing to go for someone she loved. Her relationship with Ella is very sweet and I found myself enjoying Ella even when I don’t usually like kids in my romance novels.
As a second son, Gregory knew he needed to forge his own path so he became an engineer in the military. With the war with France now over, Gregory is trying to find his place in the world and is considering giving up his position to move to America to design it’s cities. I connected a lot with Gregory in regards to his difficulty knowing where he belonged in the world. I enjoyed watching him discover what he truly wanted out of life and was happy to see him get it.
Freya and Gregory’s attraction to one another is immediate although neither of them knows what to do about it at first. With plans for the future that would take them in different directions, their relationship starts off a bit slowly but they come to trust one another fairly quickly after spending more time together. I found their relationship to be very sweet and I enjoyed watching them fall in love while getting to know each other. The physical chemistry between them is off the charts and I very much enjoyed the scenes where they found time to be alone.
Despite its short length, Sweet Home Highland Christmas packs a lot into 100 pages and was a fun read from start to finish. I highly recommend The Pennington Family series to anyone looking for a historical romance series to read that’s set in the highlands.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
July 3, 2018
Sweet Home Highlands by May McGoldrick is a quick historical romance, perfect for those with limited time for reading. Gregory was tasked with escorting a group of people to Baronsford. Included in the group are Freya and her niece Ella. I have to say, Ella stole the show in this book, everyone needs a little Ella in their life. The drama, sizzle and antics of Ella will keep readers glued to their e-readers. I love the humor. Kudos to Ms McGoldrick on the characters and dialog. Sweet Home Highland Christmas is book 1.5 of The Pennington Family Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 17, 2018
This novella first appeared in an anthology called,"Say Yes to the Scott." I had purchased that book for 2 of the other authors having never read May Mcgoldrick before. This turned out to be my favorite story of the 3.
There was so much packed into this novella. Many times I feel in novellas, you only get half the story. This story was a full romance from start to end. It was packed with every emotion. It had humor, it had sadness, it had chemistry, chivalry and of course it had its HEA.
Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. This novella was the start of becoming acquainted with a new author. Definitely 5 stars.
There was so much packed into this novella. Many times I feel in novellas, you only get half the story. This story was a full romance from start to end. It was packed with every emotion. It had humor, it had sadness, it had chemistry, chivalry and of course it had its HEA.
Once I started it, I couldn't put it down. This novella was the start of becoming acquainted with a new author. Definitely 5 stars.
June 19, 2018
Gregory Pennington has been assigned a task by his elder brother. He is to meet and escort 4 adults and 1 child to his family's estate for Christmas. As he waits in the inn, he meets a young lady, of about 5 or 6 years of age. Her name is Ella. She is precocious, funny, curious and very intelligent. She is accompanied by her aunt, Freya. They are part of the party who will be traveling with Gregory.
This is a lovely short novella.
The characters are wonderfully well developed. Gregory is shortly to retire from the army. He has been an engineer and now that the war is over, he has plans for his life. As the second son, he feels if he travels to America, he will be able to make a new life for himself. He is a kind and considerate man who has been raised in a loving family. He is enchanted by Ella and her naturally entertaining nature. He is also enchanted by Freya.
Freya has been taking care of Ella since she was born. Freya's sister died in child birth and Ella's father died in the war. So, Freya and her father have been the only family Ella has ever known. Now, the family of Ella's late father are making demands and there is a very good possibility that Freya may lose Ella completely.
Unless Freya chooses to marry a man who is a rat, she could lose Freya. She is willing to sacrifice herself in order to keep Ella at the only home she has ever known. Ella thinks she should not choose to be a martyr.
Each of these characters make this story a truly wonderful Christmas story.
Ella steals the show. She is able to become the center of attention with very little effort. She is one of the best parts of this book.
The story is well plotted. The action moves quickly. There is humor which adds a great deal to the book. But, the greatest part of the plot is devoted to family relationships and being willing to love and protect the people for whom you care.
I am a fan of these two authors who write as May McGoldrick. The have a talent for creating characters who make the reader want to quickly turn pages.
I received this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
This is a lovely short novella.
The characters are wonderfully well developed. Gregory is shortly to retire from the army. He has been an engineer and now that the war is over, he has plans for his life. As the second son, he feels if he travels to America, he will be able to make a new life for himself. He is a kind and considerate man who has been raised in a loving family. He is enchanted by Ella and her naturally entertaining nature. He is also enchanted by Freya.
Freya has been taking care of Ella since she was born. Freya's sister died in child birth and Ella's father died in the war. So, Freya and her father have been the only family Ella has ever known. Now, the family of Ella's late father are making demands and there is a very good possibility that Freya may lose Ella completely.
Unless Freya chooses to marry a man who is a rat, she could lose Freya. She is willing to sacrifice herself in order to keep Ella at the only home she has ever known. Ella thinks she should not choose to be a martyr.
Each of these characters make this story a truly wonderful Christmas story.
Ella steals the show. She is able to become the center of attention with very little effort. She is one of the best parts of this book.
The story is well plotted. The action moves quickly. There is humor which adds a great deal to the book. But, the greatest part of the plot is devoted to family relationships and being willing to love and protect the people for whom you care.
I am a fan of these two authors who write as May McGoldrick. The have a talent for creating characters who make the reader want to quickly turn pages.
I received this book from the publisher, through NetGalley. I am voluntarily writing this review and all opinions are my own.
June 25, 2018
Doesn’t matter the season, folks, May McGoldrick never seems to fail to deliver a heart melting Scottish romantic read. Sweet Home Highland Christmas just proves my point. Freya and Penn made a perfect for each other main couple, as they slowly got to know and fell for one another, while traveling with Ella, Freya’s five year old niece.
Of course, there is one major hitch in the way. Freya is reluctantly on her way to meet up with a loser of a man she feels forced to marry if she wants to keep guardianship of Ella. But, not to worry, my fellow romance book loving friends. Penn isn’t a man to stand around and just wring his hands. No, this ex-military, warrior hero guy’s got game, but in a very subtle, gentlemanly kind of way. Freya sweeps him off his feet and soon has him contemplating a whole new path for his future.
Without a whole of unexpected drama, the writing flowed and kept me fully engaged. There are a couple of brief, steamy scenes intermixed with lots of looks of longing and some passionate kisses.
If this 102 paged storyline is ringing a bell in your memory banks, it’s likely because you’ve read it before in “Christmas in Kilts, a collection of five short novellas written by various authors, in which I only enjoyed two of them (this one and Leftover Mistletoe). So I guess you could consider this book a re-release.
Whether you are stretched out in the sand enjoying the summer sun or getting cozy in front of a toasty winter fireplace, prepare to have your heart warmed up by this sweet romantic tale of Freya and Penn as they find true love in the highlands.
Title: Sweet Home Highland Christmas, Series: The Pennington Family (Book 1.5), Author: May McGoldrick, Pages: 102, stand-alone but part of a series, published before as part of Christmas in Kilts, a few graphically steamy scenes, virgin heroine, romance safe.
(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.)
Of course, there is one major hitch in the way. Freya is reluctantly on her way to meet up with a loser of a man she feels forced to marry if she wants to keep guardianship of Ella. But, not to worry, my fellow romance book loving friends. Penn isn’t a man to stand around and just wring his hands. No, this ex-military, warrior hero guy’s got game, but in a very subtle, gentlemanly kind of way. Freya sweeps him off his feet and soon has him contemplating a whole new path for his future.
Without a whole of unexpected drama, the writing flowed and kept me fully engaged. There are a couple of brief, steamy scenes intermixed with lots of looks of longing and some passionate kisses.
If this 102 paged storyline is ringing a bell in your memory banks, it’s likely because you’ve read it before in “Christmas in Kilts, a collection of five short novellas written by various authors, in which I only enjoyed two of them (this one and Leftover Mistletoe). So I guess you could consider this book a re-release.
Whether you are stretched out in the sand enjoying the summer sun or getting cozy in front of a toasty winter fireplace, prepare to have your heart warmed up by this sweet romantic tale of Freya and Penn as they find true love in the highlands.
Title: Sweet Home Highland Christmas, Series: The Pennington Family (Book 1.5), Author: May McGoldrick, Pages: 102, stand-alone but part of a series, published before as part of Christmas in Kilts, a few graphically steamy scenes, virgin heroine, romance safe.
(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 2, 2018
Captain Gregory Pennington is going home for Christmas and is newly retired from the Navy as an engineer. His older brother, Hugh, asked him to escort 4 adults and a child who were traveling to a neighbors for Christmas. Waiting for the party to arrive and an inn he's approached by the most engaging child, Ella. He soon finds Ellis is the child he's to escort along with her aunt and guardian Freya, and her nurse & husband. Colonel Richard Dunbar, the fourth hasn't arrived yet and they expect he'll join them further down the road. Freya's father has no son's and his Earldom will pass to Colonel Dunbar. He is not a nice man. Ella's grandmother is demanding Freya marry to secure Ella's care and support. Freya has raised Ella since she was born as Freya's sister died in childbirth and her father died in the war.
I have to say Ella stole the book. Sometimes an author does such a wonderful job of writing a child into the story it,s delightful. Gregory finds himself drawn to Ella. In that way he's drawn to the mother-guardian, Freya and her predicament. He's horrified that Freya is being forced to marry a man she doesn't want. Being an engineer he's skilled at problem solving. Along the way he finds himself falling in love with her. Freya knows there's no other option than Colonel Dunbar and desperately tries not to fall for Gregory.
Thank you May McGoldrick for this delightful story and thank you St Martin's Press for the NetGalley ARC for my honest review.
I have to say Ella stole the book. Sometimes an author does such a wonderful job of writing a child into the story it,s delightful. Gregory finds himself drawn to Ella. In that way he's drawn to the mother-guardian, Freya and her predicament. He's horrified that Freya is being forced to marry a man she doesn't want. Being an engineer he's skilled at problem solving. Along the way he finds himself falling in love with her. Freya knows there's no other option than Colonel Dunbar and desperately tries not to fall for Gregory.
Thank you May McGoldrick for this delightful story and thank you St Martin's Press for the NetGalley ARC for my honest review.
June 18, 2018
Sweet Home Highland Christmas really stood out for me because of the hero. Captain Gregory Pennington isn't your typical soldier or spare to inherit a title. He's an engineer! This really excited me, and I think the authors did a great job showing his intellect, curiosity, and problem-solving skills all along the journey as he escorted Freya and her five-year-old niece, Ella.
Ella really steals the show. I love when a child can be such a central part of a romance, and I don't see that very often in the historical genre. If there are just tons of these out there that I haven't heard of yet, feel free to drop the title in the comments so I can check them out. Ella is also very intelligent, and when she meets Pennington, she promptly decides that he would be a much better husband for her aunt than the cousin Freya has been dreading to marry.
While this isn't a love at first sight story, it is a case of falling in love quickly. As the small party journeys through the Scottish countryside in the winter, I was able to get to know these characters through an ice-skating break, bedtime stories, and midnight confessions. The story takes place during the Christmas season, but it really wasn't mentioned too much until the very end, which I found a tad rushed, like the authors were running into a word or page count limit, but overall a very satisfying story.
Ella really steals the show. I love when a child can be such a central part of a romance, and I don't see that very often in the historical genre. If there are just tons of these out there that I haven't heard of yet, feel free to drop the title in the comments so I can check them out. Ella is also very intelligent, and when she meets Pennington, she promptly decides that he would be a much better husband for her aunt than the cousin Freya has been dreading to marry.
While this isn't a love at first sight story, it is a case of falling in love quickly. As the small party journeys through the Scottish countryside in the winter, I was able to get to know these characters through an ice-skating break, bedtime stories, and midnight confessions. The story takes place during the Christmas season, but it really wasn't mentioned too much until the very end, which I found a tad rushed, like the authors were running into a word or page count limit, but overall a very satisfying story.
June 25, 2018
An enchanting novella that is a pleasure to read.
Freya's sister died in childbirth and so she stepped in to raise the child, Ella, since her sister's husband died in the war. This little girl is easily one of my favorite characters ever! Funny, precocious, and determined to find a husband for Freya, but not the man Freya has said she'd marry. It turns out that Ella is one great little matchmaker.
Gregory has been planning his future. After retiring from the army, he plans to go to America and start a new life there. When Ella spots him, she decides she has other plans for him.
Since his brother had asked him to escort a group of passengers to Baronsford for Christmas, Gregory soon realizes that Freya and Ella are now his responsibility. While he is delighted with Ella, he is attracted to Freya. Unfortunately, he has other plans for his future. And, of course, Freya has agreed to marry her cousin - under duress. If she doesn't marry, Ella's grandmother has vowed to take Ella away.
But then something magical happens along the way to the Pennington estate...
Great characters and a nice Christmas read. I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Freya's sister died in childbirth and so she stepped in to raise the child, Ella, since her sister's husband died in the war. This little girl is easily one of my favorite characters ever! Funny, precocious, and determined to find a husband for Freya, but not the man Freya has said she'd marry. It turns out that Ella is one great little matchmaker.
Gregory has been planning his future. After retiring from the army, he plans to go to America and start a new life there. When Ella spots him, she decides she has other plans for him.
Since his brother had asked him to escort a group of passengers to Baronsford for Christmas, Gregory soon realizes that Freya and Ella are now his responsibility. While he is delighted with Ella, he is attracted to Freya. Unfortunately, he has other plans for his future. And, of course, Freya has agreed to marry her cousin - under duress. If she doesn't marry, Ella's grandmother has vowed to take Ella away.
But then something magical happens along the way to the Pennington estate...
Great characters and a nice Christmas read. I received an ARC copy of this book in return for an honest review.
June 12, 2018
I originally read this novella in the Christmas in Kilts anthology and it was by far my favorite in the collection.
This is the story of Gregory Pennington and Freya Sutherland. Freya is guardian to her niece Ella, but since her grandfather’s death, Ella’s grandmother has been questioning whether Freya is capable of caring for her. She has demanded Freya attend her and prove her worthiness. To prove her stability, Freya has agreed to marry her father’s heir, thus proving Ella a home and a financially stable future. She is not happy about the marriage, but the cost it worth it if it means Ella will stay with her. Her discontent grows once she meets their escort, Penn. These two have an instant chemistry, they sizzle! But Penn is not sure how he feels and has plans, plans that do not include a wife and child. And Freya has made a promise and she must marry. With a little help from Ella, these two finally get a HEA.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the Publisher*
This is the story of Gregory Pennington and Freya Sutherland. Freya is guardian to her niece Ella, but since her grandfather’s death, Ella’s grandmother has been questioning whether Freya is capable of caring for her. She has demanded Freya attend her and prove her worthiness. To prove her stability, Freya has agreed to marry her father’s heir, thus proving Ella a home and a financially stable future. She is not happy about the marriage, but the cost it worth it if it means Ella will stay with her. Her discontent grows once she meets their escort, Penn. These two have an instant chemistry, they sizzle! But Penn is not sure how he feels and has plans, plans that do not include a wife and child. And Freya has made a promise and she must marry. With a little help from Ella, these two finally get a HEA.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the Publisher*
June 27, 2018
How exciting! Christmas and a Christmas Ball at Baronsford in the Scottish Highlands! Captain Gregory "Penn" Pennington is asked by his brother to escort a party of 4 adults and a child to his childhood home for the Christmas holidays. Penn meets up with three of the adults and the charming, precicious child, Ella. Thus Penn and Freya Sutherland meet each other. Freya must marry to retain custody of her niece, Ella and has made an accommodation with her cousin, Colonel Richard Dunbar for a marriage of convenience. Dunbar is a gambler and womanizer, Freya knows this. But she has no other choice. Or does she?
May McGoldrick tells a delightful tale where girl meets boy and they fall in love with the help of young Ella. I totally enjoyed this charming tale and look forward to more stories in The Pennington Family Series.
May McGoldrick tells a delightful tale where girl meets boy and they fall in love with the help of young Ella. I totally enjoyed this charming tale and look forward to more stories in The Pennington Family Series.
July 1, 2018
SWEET HOME HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS by May McGoldrick
This was my favorite story in the previously released anthology, Christmas in Kilts. With a desperate heroine who needs a way to keep custody of her precocious niece who really made this story delightful, I loved it so much I had no problem rereading it now.
I easily see why this book received a RITA award nomination. This novella is easily one of the best I have read in the last two years.
I gave this story 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization. Will our hero be the answer to our heroines prayers?
I gave this story a sensual rating of 4.25 of 5.0 flames. It was one of the more sensual novellas in the collection it originally appeared in.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novella to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
This was my favorite story in the previously released anthology, Christmas in Kilts. With a desperate heroine who needs a way to keep custody of her precocious niece who really made this story delightful, I loved it so much I had no problem rereading it now.
I easily see why this book received a RITA award nomination. This novella is easily one of the best I have read in the last two years.
I gave this story 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization. Will our hero be the answer to our heroines prayers?
I gave this story a sensual rating of 4.25 of 5.0 flames. It was one of the more sensual novellas in the collection it originally appeared in.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novella to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
July 3, 2018
Prepare to be delighted in the Christmas novella set in the Highlands. Having taken care of her niece Freya, since Freya's parents had passed away, Ella is desperate to keep custody of her. When Freya's late fathers family begin to make demands to take her, Ella decides the only solution would be for her to marry her cousin. Captain Gregory Pennington, recently retired from the military is tasked by his brother to escort a family to their neighboring estate before he makes in home. Not expecting beautiful Ella, he and she are both instantly attracted to each other. Throw in five year old Freya and the adventure begins! The only problem is Pennington has plans of his own and a wife and child are not part of it. But as fate often does, it is the holidays and sometimes magic happens.
Loved this story and cannot wait to read more by this author!
Loved this story and cannot wait to read more by this author!
July 2, 2018
Another buy buy buy novella...
One of the things I love the most reading through this novel, It captures, it titillates as well as being entertaining. What a super addition to the Pennington Family series. This author impresses me every single time I open a book from her. I am engrossed all the way through. I am entertained and I just keep wanting more and more of the stories. What a superb writer she really is. One thing I absolutely hated about this novella.. .it was too short! I just want more right now. So if you want a very quick super read, buy the book sit and enjoy and go back for more! I was given this arc via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own and done willingly and voluntarily. Regards, Anna Swedenmom
One of the things I love the most reading through this novel, It captures, it titillates as well as being entertaining. What a super addition to the Pennington Family series. This author impresses me every single time I open a book from her. I am engrossed all the way through. I am entertained and I just keep wanting more and more of the stories. What a superb writer she really is. One thing I absolutely hated about this novella.. .it was too short! I just want more right now. So if you want a very quick super read, buy the book sit and enjoy and go back for more! I was given this arc via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own and done willingly and voluntarily. Regards, Anna Swedenmom
July 2, 2018
Sweet Home Highland Christmas by May McGoldrick is book 1.5 in The Pennington Family series. This is the story of Freya Sutherland and Captain Gregory Pennington.
Freya is has custody of her Niece Ella, but Ella's grandmother is questioning Freya's care. Freya is a single women but to keep her niece Freya will marry to do so. But when she meets Penn there is a immediate attraction but she knows that Penn hasn't any plans to marry nor have a child. So trying to stick to her plan to keep her niece and fight the attraction she has for Penn. But little Ella has her own ideas and still the show...but she does help with a happy ending!
A very sweet romance for Christmas or just any time really....loved it!
Freya is has custody of her Niece Ella, but Ella's grandmother is questioning Freya's care. Freya is a single women but to keep her niece Freya will marry to do so. But when she meets Penn there is a immediate attraction but she knows that Penn hasn't any plans to marry nor have a child. So trying to stick to her plan to keep her niece and fight the attraction she has for Penn. But little Ella has her own ideas and still the show...but she does help with a happy ending!
A very sweet romance for Christmas or just any time really....loved it!
November 14, 2018
4.5 Stars for a rather fine Christmas romance. An army engineer and a woman desperate to retain custody of her beloved niece, whom she's raised since birth, are traveling across Scotland to the same estate for the holidays. Allowing time for the leads to get to know each other and fall in love, and with a delightfully precocious and wise-for-her-years child who conspires to bring them together, this author knows how to craft an oh-so-satisfying romantic novella. Features a swoon-worthy hero and a very festive Christmas gathering at the end too. I will definitely be reading more by May McGoldrick.
June 27, 2018
*I was kindly offered to read this book by the publishers in exchange of an honest review*
Well, it's only the second book that I read by these authors and my opinion didn't change, so far these two books were mediocre for me.
It seems like I read this story hundred times already. From the beginning I knew the ending of this story, the characters were pretty good, but also nothing memorable about them.
However, I think that for the days when you feel stressed and want some comforting read, this book is definitely for you. It's like a cup of coffee: you drink it and forget about it.
Well, it's only the second book that I read by these authors and my opinion didn't change, so far these two books were mediocre for me.
It seems like I read this story hundred times already. From the beginning I knew the ending of this story, the characters were pretty good, but also nothing memorable about them.
However, I think that for the days when you feel stressed and want some comforting read, this book is definitely for you. It's like a cup of coffee: you drink it and forget about it.
July 3, 2018
Sweet Home Highland Christmas by May McGoldrick
The Pennington Family 1.5
As I began to read I realized I had read this delightful novella in the anthology Christmas in Kilts. What a delightful story of an aunt doing all that she can to retain guardianship of her niece…the little girl she has taken care of since her sister’s death…the little girl who starts the story playing matchmaker. I truly enjoyed this the first time I read it and equally so this second time around.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press – Swerve for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
The Pennington Family 1.5
As I began to read I realized I had read this delightful novella in the anthology Christmas in Kilts. What a delightful story of an aunt doing all that she can to retain guardianship of her niece…the little girl she has taken care of since her sister’s death…the little girl who starts the story playing matchmaker. I truly enjoyed this the first time I read it and equally so this second time around.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press – Swerve for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4.5 Stars
June 25, 2018
Very sweet novella with delightful characters in Freya, Gregory, and Ella. Gregory is asked to escort a party, which includes Freya and her niece Ella and well, the sparks fly! Freya is engaged but no so happy about it. What's important to her is Ella, who is a terrific little girl. You can guess where this is going but you'll wish it was longer. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A quick, nice read.
June 12, 2018
Sweet Home Highland Christmas - what can I say, I LOVED Ella (the child)! It was fun watching how the H/h felt the instant attraction and how they both handled it while dealing with an extremely strong willed and voiced child. The ending was especially hilarious!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and these are my thoughts on the book!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and these are my thoughts on the book!
July 2, 2018
Here's the funny thing about my reviewing this book - I didn't even realize I had read it already! I just saw the name May McGoldrick and automatically went "Hell yes, where do I sign up?" I love this author's books, not only because the writing is amazing but also because she includes so much history in her books. I love learning more about the time period, the wars going on, how marriages were made - it's all so interesting to me! May introduces some great historical events that tie really well with the plot and doesn't make it super complicated. That is a great storyteller!
The last person Gregory Pennington is expecting to escort to his family home for the holidays is a precocious 5-year-old who looks like a child but speaks with more wisdom than most adults. Let alone her aunt, Freya Sutherland, who takes his breath away the moment he sees her. Expecting to marry her cousin in order to gain custody of her orphaned niece, Freya is at the end of her rope. Willing to sacrifice whatever is necessary, she now finds herself torn between the life, and the man, she wants and securing her niece's future. If only there were a way for her to have both love and security...
I have said this before and I will say it again - when the child in the story grabs my heart, you know it's a good book. Because typically, I feel children can put a damper on the romance, and I stay far, far away. But in this case, she really was the cherry on top of this delicious treat of a story. Her humorous dialogue with both Gregory and Freya was hysterical, and I wanted to read more about her. I loved Freya and Gregory, of course, as their characters had instant chemistry. Both had such kind hearts, and you could tell that they were drawn to each other from the start. The fact that Freya was willing to do anything for her niece provided just the right amount of conflict, and Gregory worked hard to help her achieve everything she wanted, including love.
As always, May McGoldrick impresses with a delightfully charming story full of history. I can't wait to read what's next for the Pennington family!
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review**
The last person Gregory Pennington is expecting to escort to his family home for the holidays is a precocious 5-year-old who looks like a child but speaks with more wisdom than most adults. Let alone her aunt, Freya Sutherland, who takes his breath away the moment he sees her. Expecting to marry her cousin in order to gain custody of her orphaned niece, Freya is at the end of her rope. Willing to sacrifice whatever is necessary, she now finds herself torn between the life, and the man, she wants and securing her niece's future. If only there were a way for her to have both love and security...
I have said this before and I will say it again - when the child in the story grabs my heart, you know it's a good book. Because typically, I feel children can put a damper on the romance, and I stay far, far away. But in this case, she really was the cherry on top of this delicious treat of a story. Her humorous dialogue with both Gregory and Freya was hysterical, and I wanted to read more about her. I loved Freya and Gregory, of course, as their characters had instant chemistry. Both had such kind hearts, and you could tell that they were drawn to each other from the start. The fact that Freya was willing to do anything for her niece provided just the right amount of conflict, and Gregory worked hard to help her achieve everything she wanted, including love.
As always, May McGoldrick impresses with a delightfully charming story full of history. I can't wait to read what's next for the Pennington family!
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review**
July 7, 2018
A delightful story of an aunt who takes care of her niece ,after her mom dies. They loved each other very much. Then we have Captain Gregory Pennington who is an officer in the Royal Engineers, building roads and bridges.
The aunt is Freya Sunderland who's father is a Baron and a grandfather to little Ella who is her niece. She is one precocious and loving little girl.. The characters help enact the story with joy and love of life.. The descriptions are wonderful and vivid. The plot has a few surprises in it. I think the authors have done a great job. It is well written, keeps your attention and is worth the time to reads.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Merged review:
A delightful story of an aunt who takes care of her niece ,after her mom dies. They loved each other very much. Then we have Captain Gregory Pennington who is an officer in the Royal Engineers, building roads and bridges.
The aunt is Freya Sunderland who's father is a Baron and a grandfather to little Ella who is her niece. She is one precocious and loving little girl.. The characters help enact the story with joy and love of life.. The descriptions are wonderful and vivid. The plot has a few surprises in it. I think the authors have done a great job. It is well written, keeps your attention and is worth the time to reads.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
The aunt is Freya Sunderland who's father is a Baron and a grandfather to little Ella who is her niece. She is one precocious and loving little girl.. The characters help enact the story with joy and love of life.. The descriptions are wonderful and vivid. The plot has a few surprises in it. I think the authors have done a great job. It is well written, keeps your attention and is worth the time to reads.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Merged review:
A delightful story of an aunt who takes care of her niece ,after her mom dies. They loved each other very much. Then we have Captain Gregory Pennington who is an officer in the Royal Engineers, building roads and bridges.
The aunt is Freya Sunderland who's father is a Baron and a grandfather to little Ella who is her niece. She is one precocious and loving little girl.. The characters help enact the story with joy and love of life.. The descriptions are wonderful and vivid. The plot has a few surprises in it. I think the authors have done a great job. It is well written, keeps your attention and is worth the time to reads.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.
July 10, 2018
previously released in a highland christmas anthology, sweet home highland christmas is a sweet novella that continues the pennington family story. captain gregory pennington has been commissioned by his brother to accompany family friends back home. penn doesn't know who to expect, but a little sprite named ella and her guardian freya sutherland isn't quite it.
because meeting freya and her young charge changes everything. freya is set to meet with ella's grandmother and has to prove that she has the stability and the means to provide for her. to that end she's convinced that she must marry her cousin in a marriage of convenience that she dreads. that everyone dreads for her, because her cousin isn't a good man.
penn realizes quickly that he needs to make things right for freya. and while he does swoop in and fix everything, he does so without expectations. but his kindness, his friendship, his ability to see the freya before all the responsibility she bears makes him irresistible to her.
this sweet story is a feel-good holiday tale, and releases just in time for christmas in july.
**sweet home highland christmas will publish on july 3, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/st. martin's press (swerve) in exchange for my honest review.
because meeting freya and her young charge changes everything. freya is set to meet with ella's grandmother and has to prove that she has the stability and the means to provide for her. to that end she's convinced that she must marry her cousin in a marriage of convenience that she dreads. that everyone dreads for her, because her cousin isn't a good man.
penn realizes quickly that he needs to make things right for freya. and while he does swoop in and fix everything, he does so without expectations. but his kindness, his friendship, his ability to see the freya before all the responsibility she bears makes him irresistible to her.
this sweet story is a feel-good holiday tale, and releases just in time for christmas in july.
**sweet home highland christmas will publish on july 3, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/st. martin's press (swerve) in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2018
Freya Sutherland has been mother to her niece Ella since Freya's sister died in childbirth and her brother-in law was killed in the wars. Problem is that Freya's aunt is insisting that she marry her cousin or, Freya will be taken away from her. She is traveling with Ella to meet her cousin when she meets Captain Gregory Pennington, who is supposed to escort her the rest of the trip. Ella feels an immediate affinity for Gregory and, decides that Freya needs to marry him instead of "that other man!"
This is another absolutely charming, steamy addition to the Pennington family saga and, I couldn't put it down!
Be warned that you will fall in love the Elsa just as much as Freya and Gregory!!!
This is another absolutely charming, steamy addition to the Pennington family saga and, I couldn't put it down!
Be warned that you will fall in love the Elsa just as much as Freya and Gregory!!!
June 27, 2018
Capt. Gregory Pennington was tasked with escorting 4 adults and a child on his way home by his brother.
Freya Sutherland, her niece Ella and two servants were his to escort to Baronsford. The fourth, Freya's intended, was not in the party.
Ella's a charming imp and is trying to matchmake the pair, much to his amusement. Over the length of the journey, they formed a familial unit and he sought a way to become one in actuality.
A short sweet tale written with a bit of angst ( the former betrothed), much humor and romance.
I requested ans received a NetGalley copy to peruse..
Freya Sutherland, her niece Ella and two servants were his to escort to Baronsford. The fourth, Freya's intended, was not in the party.
Ella's a charming imp and is trying to matchmake the pair, much to his amusement. Over the length of the journey, they formed a familial unit and he sought a way to become one in actuality.
A short sweet tale written with a bit of angst ( the former betrothed), much humor and romance.
I requested ans received a NetGalley copy to peruse..
July 22, 2018
Sweet Home Highlands finds engineer Capt. Greg Pennington thinking of retiring and moving to Boston. For now, he’s escorting Freya, her 5-year-old niece Ella and their servants to the estate next to his parents. Ella’s paternal grandmother wants to meet her and maybe take her away from Freya. Ella’s mother died soon after having Ella and Freya has raised her. Freya plans to marry a cousin to have a better chance of keeping Ella, but will that happen? Ella is a marvelous character, 5 going on 25 and determined to get what she wants. I enjoyed this novella very much.
July 1, 2018
I loved this novella, it was an enjoyable and fun read. The characters are well developed, I loved Ella, and it communicates a lot of emotions, from sadness to happiness.
I will look for other books by this writer.
Recommended.
Many thanks to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for this ARC
I will look for other books by this writer.
Recommended.
Many thanks to St Martin's Press and Netgalley for this ARC
July 3, 2018
Please note this story was in the previously released collection, Christmas in Kilts. I really liked this historical read. Ella is such a great character and Gregory and Freya have wonderful chemistry. This fast-paced read holds your interest throughout. I liked it.
July 4, 2018
A very pleasant,easy to read book ,right for a summer read or just relaxing.A pleasant plot,and good description of characters,you can almost feel that you are there with the description of skating,and the journey.
July 8, 2018
Another excellent foray into the Highlands from this imaginative author, I was whisked away into an adventure along with Penn and Freya, this was unputdownable, i loved it from the first page.
I received a copy from Netgalley and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion.
I received a copy from Netgalley and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion.
August 29, 2018
I enjoyed Sweet Home Highland Christmas. This short story makes me want to pick up more by May McGoldrick. A well deserved five plus stars.
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