My Highland Rogue

Highland Fling #1

by Karen Ranney

New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney takes readers back to beautiful Scotland in the first novel in her breathtaking new series.

Since she was a little girl, Jennifer Adaire, daughter of the Earl of Burfield, has loved Gordon McDonnell, even though his station as the gardener's son made him strictly forbidden to her. After Gordon was forced from Adaire Hall, taking Jennifer’s heart with him, he headed for London, intent on making a better life for himself. Though they’ve kept in touch through letters, and Jennifer has waited patiently for him, it’s taken Gordon five years to return to Scotland. Now, Jennifer doesn’t know if she can manage seeing again the man she loves—but can never have.

In the time since his departure, Gordon has achieved the success he’s always sought. When he learns that his father is dying, he returns home and discovers, much to his surprise, that the feelings he’s always had for Jennifer burn ever stronger.

But when a family secret surfaces, Jennifer and Gordon’s chance at a future together could be threatened…

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Scotland, Fiction, Audiobook

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 28, 2020

About the author

I’m a writer who’s been privileged to have attained the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists.

Although I've primarily written historical romance, I've also written contemporary romantic suspense, a murder mystery, and I'm having a wonderful time writing about a vampire who is being challenged by her new state of being. (The Montgomery Chronicles: The Fertile Vampire and The Reluctant Goddess coming March 12, 2015.)

I believe in the power of the individual, the magnificence of the human spirit, and always looking for the positive in any situation. I write about people who have been challenged by life itself but who win in the end.

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Website: http://karenranney.com
Email: karen@karenranney.com
Twitter: @Karen_Ranney

Reviews

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this a while ago and somehow forgot to write the review for this treasure of a read. so not sure if I will be able to give the length and depth of a review I would prefer, but here we go. My Highland Rogue is the first book of the series, and honestly might be the last book we will ever receive from this author here. I know that she passed right before this one was published, but I will say this was a beautiful treasure of a romance, and I had such a delight in the reading of it. Now I mostly listened to this book on AnyPlay and loved the narration here. It definitely drew me in so quickly into the story. So I highly recommend the narration if you enjoy audiobook style of reading. My Highland Rogue is a story that is sweet and deeply rich. Its a story of two people that were childhood sweethearts but they were from opposite sides of the tracks. The heroine is from a aristocratic family and the hero is a common man who works for her family. But then they were split apart and didn't see or hear from each other for five years. But when Gordon's mother dies, he returns back home and back to Jennifer and both he and Jennifer have to resolve what happened all those years ago and they both realize that they were duped by those they trusted the most. But when a secret come to light about Gordon's true parentage, their relationship will be tested in the worst of ways. But this is a story that shows that love is stronger than doubt and secrets.

I was so drawn into this story and I just wanted to cheer these two on through their triumphs. It definitely kept me engaged and I wanted more time of these two together. They do spend some of the story apart from each other, but I also loved seeing them find their way to each other and what they are willing to fight for. This story was GOLD in my book and I was left with such a bittersweet feeling to it. I am so saddened there won't be any more books from this author, but if this is her final work, it was beautiful. And definitely plan on purchasing it in print.

Overall I found this book to be a breathtaking addition to the works of Karen Ranney, its a story of unforgettable love, the worth of fighting and holding value to what you build in life. Breathtaking in its sincerity.

[Becky (romantic_pursuing_feels) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall: 2.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡
Romance: 💞💞
Sensuality: 💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥 - 🔥🔥
Humor: Not really

(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )

Basic plot
Jennifer and Gordon had a beautiful blooming romance. Jennifer, the daughter of the earl, and Gordon, the gardener’s son, knew their love would survive their differences in class. Until suddenly they were separated without understanding what had happened. It’s 5 years later and they are reunited, trying to understand their feelings and work through their hurt.

Give this a try if you want:
- Victorian time period – 1870
- Majority of the book takes place at the heroine’s highland estate
- Class difference/forbidden love trope
- Childhood friends to lovers trope
- Slow burn/Lower steam – there’s 2 scenes but they are directly after each other so I just counted it was 1

My thoughts:
I loved the narrator for this book – Liam Gerrard. He had a fabulous accent and I actually enjoyed the way he did the women’s voices.

But the story itself I really struggled with. And I will admit I have a harder time with second chance romance. I feel like you walk in on a story already started and miss most of the parts of falling in love that I live for with romance. Here, you don’t get many flashbacks, you just know that the earl’s daughter and the gardener’s boy love each other.

Forces are trying to keep them apart, and lies are told. Both sides believe them in some ways and leave each other, confused and hurt. Jennifer is abandoned in the highlands for 5 years while Gordon goes to London to make his own way in life. The story picks up when he returns to the highlands upon finding out his father is seriously ill.

The big reason I struggled with this book was simply that I was bored. There was a lot of internal dialogue with both characters. A LOT. And I just ended up wanting them to talk to each other and interact. I didn’t feel any tension between them and though it was kind of an angsty book with all the longing and wanting on both sides, it just didn’t engage my heart in any way.

I struggled with how once they are back together and they talk, they just love each other again. It was like, oh this was all a misunderstanding?? I love you! Then the second act of the book, the big destructive secret I won’t mention, well I just thought it was all a bit silly. Being a romance novel, we all know how it would end up, so it just made for a lot of yucky feelings and more of them not talking to each other while we waited for the big reveal that would make it okay.

I was extremely disappointed in Gordon as a hero. He just left Jennifer for 5 years upon hearing something he didn’t like, basically without question and I wasn’t too impressed with them then. But after the big secret happens towards the middle of the book, he just….ignores her??? Hoping she’ll go away and he won’t have to deal with it? Who does that? At this point they were engaged to married so it was just ridiculous for him to act like that and think it would all just ‘go away’, it made no sense.

Jennifer I liked and felt bad for. I think she deserved better than Gordon.

Content Warnings:

Possible incestuous kisses/love
Cancer
Loss of a parent
Toxic family members


Locations of kisses/intimate scenes – I had the audiobook so locations might be weird

3% - remembered kiss
9% - remembered kisses
26% - kisses
31% - kisses
92% - kisses, oral for her, first sex scene, followed by another
100% - kiss

[Mariana · Rating 3 out of 5]

It started off pretty good but took an unnecessary downturn halfway in. The hero Gordon is a coward who runs any time a challenge comes between him and his childhood sweetheart. The heroine Jennifer is braver, but she doesn't have much of an identity outside of Gordon.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Jennifer Adaire, the daughter of the Earl of Burfield, has loved the gardener’s son, Gordon McDonnell for as long as she can remember and she had dreams of forever. But five years ago, her dreams were crushed when Gordon disappeared without a trace. Her brother Harrison, the new earl, tells her that their mother left him money and he took it and ran. But that is not quite true…

Gordon left Adaire Hall after receiving a bequest from the late countess and being told that he was no longer welcome. He argued that Jennifer didn’t want him to leave and was told she no longer wanted to see him and was shown proof. With a heavy heart and a burning need to prove himself, Gordon goes to London and proceeds to build an empire. Two years after he left, Jennifer sends him a letter telling him his mother passed away – he is sorry that Betty died, but he was never close to his parents and sees no reason to return to Scotland. But when she writes again three years later to tell him his father, Sean is dying, he decides it is time to return and face his past.

They quickly learn that they were lied to and have lost five years because of those lies. Their feelings haven’t changed and they are still in love. Gordon asks Jennifer to marry him and she happily accepts, it seems like their HEA is finally within their grasp when a deathbed confession changes everything and destroys every dream they ever had about being together. Sean’s secret seems insurmountable, but Sean is not the only one keeping secrets…

This was a very well written, fast paced story with extra helpings of angst and heartache! I loved Jennifer and Gordon and my heart broke right along with theirs when Sean told Gordon the secret he had been keeping since his wife Betty died. I was absolutely devasted and couldn’t imagine how they were going to be able to overcome such an enormous obstacle! But Ms. Ranney, as usual, cleverly found the perfect way to give them their HEA. The book is teeming with secrets, lies, heartbreak, lots of tears, sweet kisses, some wonderful secondary characters, as well as some villainous ones, and finally a hard-won HEA. I truly loved this story and would happily recommend it. This is the first book in a new series – but sadly, Ms. Ranney passed away before this book was released and I have to wonder if this is her last book.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review of an eARC that was provided to me by the publisher.*

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite their difference in station, Lady Jennifer Adaire, daughter of the Earl of Burfield, and Gordon McDonnell, son of the estate’s gardener, grew up together as close friends. Jennifer has always loved Gordon, even though their relationship was forbidden. When Gordon left Scotland with no explanation, Jennifer was devastated. Gordon has spent the last five years amassing his empire in London but has only just returned to Adaire Hall, ostensibly to see his dying father, but really to finally claim Jennifer now that he is worthy of her. The two are shocked to learn of the meddlers who conspired to separate them all those years ago, but they find their love is stronger than ever and they refuse to be separated again. Just when everything is coming together for these two, a secret comes to light, threatening any hopes of a future together.

This was a strange and very slow-paced book. I enjoyed it at first, but as it continued and more side characters were added, it began to feel more and more discombobulated. There was so much misunderstanding and plot twisting that it almost felt repetitive and there were several points left totally unaddressed. I found Jennifer to be a rather flat character; there was nothing much to her beyond her love for Gordon and Adaire Hall and she was a bit too sunshiney for me much of the time. There was some great drama here, but I would’ve liked to see an actual comeuppance for Harrison, though perhaps that had been intended for a future book. Sadly, this was the late Karen Ranney’s final work, so we readers will just have to come up with our own just desserts for him. Overall, it was clear that this author was a master plotter, the family saga and slow burn just had me losing interest in places, though credit must be given for the sheer originality of the plot. This was definitely unlike anything I’ve read before.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[lauras.always.reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a well-written highland romance. While I struggled with various parts of it, I can definitely appreciate Ranney's writing and would read more from her in the future. My Highland Rogue features Gordon, the gardener's son on a highland estate, and Jennifer, the Earl's only daughter. The two grow up together along with Jennifer's brother, Harrison, despite disapproval from various people due to their class differences, including Gordon's own father. The one champion for Gordon was Jennifer's mother who leaves him a large amount of money upon her death. Gordon must leave the estate when she dies and heads to London to make something of himself, leaving Jennifer (not knowing what happened to Gordon) confused and saddened by his sudden departure.

Years later something happens that sends Gordon from London back up to Scotland. Here is where I began having some issues. Without ruining the story, I'll just say that various secrets and plot lines come out that just didn't work for me. While some turned out differently than they first appeared I just couldn't get past the initial reaction and my suspension of disbelief just couldn't handle some things...be it the twists and turns that come up in the story or just the way that Harrison behaves.

That being said, I do think this is a well written book. I did love the portrayal of the highlands and the culture and traditions. If you are looking for an escape this book may be for you.

I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. The opinions here are my own.

[ChasingLeslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book in the new Highland Fling series.

Lady Jennifer Adaire, daughter of the Earl of Burfield, has always loved the gardener’s son, Gordon McDonnell. After Gordon is forced from Adaire Hall, he heads for London to making a name for himself. When a successful Gordon returns years later, he learns a shocking secret from his dying father that could destroy any hope he has of finally making a life with Jennifer.

This book begins with Gordon being sent away, told that Jennifer doesn’t care about him and wants him gone, and continues five years later. Jennifer has spent that separation pining for Gordon and writing him unanswered letters. Every character - from the hero and heroine to the supporting characters - seems completely depressed and unhappy, which made it a somewhat unenjoyable start. The book gets interesting when a colossal family secret is revealed, but the fallout is predictable and I wasn’t satisfied with the ending.

* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #MyHighlandRogue #NetGalley

[Paige]

DNF at 40%

I’m going to leave this couple as they are — reunited, miscommunication cleared up, exchanged declarations of love and passionate kisses, planning to become engaged any day now.

What a wonderful happy ending. Don’t need her drunken wastrel of a brother crashing in and ruining everything, or whatever other shenanigans are in store for these two lovebirds.

8.15.25

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since she was a little girl, Jennifer Adaire, daughter of the Earl of Burfield, has loved Gordon McDonnell even though he’s the gardener’s son so forbidden to her. After Gordon was forced from Adaire Hall when the Countess died, taking Jennifer’s heart with him, he headed for London, intent on making a better life for himself. Jennifer has waited patiently for him, it’s taken Gordon five years to return to Scotland. Now Jennifer doesn’t know if she can manage seeing again the man she loves—but can never have. In the time since his departure, Gordon has achieved the success he’s always sought. When he learns that his father is dying, he returns home and discovers much to his surprise that the feelings he’s always had for Jennifer burn ever stronger. Then when a family secret surfaces, Jennifer and Gordon’s chance at a future together could be threatened.
A very well written novel with strong characters. A novel of misunderstandings, however once these are resolved a secret is revealed that will rock you. I thoroughly enjoyed it & read it in two sittings, it totally captivated me. I loved both Gordon & Jennifer who had remained steadfast for five years, he was kind considerate as well as ruthless in business & he’d made a success of his life. Jennifer was the strong woman who kept the estate together when her horrid brother Harrison left to squander everything in London. I wept when Ellen revealed all, I would have liked for Harrison to have had a total comeuppance as he despicable
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Mary Gallo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked this story. This author never fails to give a solid, satisfying tale of two strong people who deals with life's ills and overcome to find their happy ever after. The hero starts out being thrown off the estate for loving the heroine who is the daughter of the aristocrat who owns the estate and has been bequeathed a large amount of money from the countess who just passed away. He leaves for 5 years and comes back when his father, the gardener, is dying. The hero has become a successful, wealthy business man who had used the money left to him to build his business with investments and imports. The heroine was not told of him leaving. She had gone on a trip and returned to find he left the estate without a word. She had stayed to manage the estate while her brother removed himself to Lindon to drink, gamble and whore himself and his family to the poor house. But the heroine was able to manage the estate and hid funds to keep the estate functioning. This was such a heart-tugging story. There was such an outpouring of sacrifice on both sides as the worked towards their hea. Such an eloquent tale of not giving up. And the twists and turns this story takes. It is very well written and I highly recommend this book. 5 stars fir the characters and plot and cohesiveness. The author was very inventive in her story line of two people who didn't give up.

[Norah Gibbons · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book to read through Edelweiss+ in exchange for a fair review. My Highland Rogue is the first book in a new series Highland Fling that Karen Ranney was going to write, but as she passed away a few months ago, it will be I believe her last book. Initially, because of some things she said on her blog, I had decided not to review this book, but then she passed away, and I decided that I’d been reading books by her for more than 20 years and so would read and review this last one. The story is a familiar one to romance readers' best friends grow up together and fall in love, but he’s sent away as being the gardener’s son he’s not quite good enough for the daughter of the Earl. He makes something of himself and comes back, but the author throws quite a few twists in their way, and the path to HEA is not smooth at all. I enjoyed reading this book and am sad that there will be no more books from Karen Ranney. I do recommend reading the story of Lady Jennifer Adaire and Gordon McDonnell because even though the plot is a familiar one, it’s told in a way that keeps you intrigued as you wonder how are they going to solve this impasse. Light Steam. Publishing Date: July 28, 2020.
#MyHighlandRogue #KarenRanney #HistoricalRomance #HighlandRomance #ScottishRomance #AvonRomance #HarperCollinsCanada #EdelweissPlus #HarperCollinsPublishers #bookstagram

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good second chance romance. Jennifer and Gordon grew up together on her father's estate in Scotland. First, they were friends, and their feelings changed to love as they grew older. Jennifer didn't care that Gordon was the gardener's son. The forces of disapproval were strong, with Jennifer's mother Gordon's only advocate. When she died, she left Gordon a sum of money. With his only (adult) supporter gone, others on the estate forced him to leave, filling his head with lies about Jennifer wanting him gone. Broken-hearted, he headed for London. Meanwhile, Jennifer has no idea where or why Gordon has gone. She remains on the estate, running things for her useless, profligate brother, Harrison.

Five years later, Gordon has become a successful businessman. He buries his feelings for Jennifer in his work. When he receives a letter from Jennifer telling him that his father is dying, he reluctantly returns to Scotland. The first meeting between Jennifer and Gordon is awkward, as each believes the other is responsible for their separation. There are some difficult moments until the blow-up exposes the truth of what happened that day. With the air cleared, Jennifer and Gordon again find themselves growing closer. There are some terrific scenes of them together, catching up on what they've done while apart and fighting to keep their attraction under control.

Things aren't easy. Jennifer's brother Harrison is forced back to the estate from his carousing in London to witness the birth of his first child. His hatred of Gordon and disdain for Jennifer are apparent, and he takes every opportunity to make their lives difficult. Instead of driving them apart, the tension pulls Jennifer and Gordon closer until they can no longer deny their love. Meanwhile, Gordon spends time with his dying father, with whom he's never gotten along. Sean was always hypercritical of Gordon, constantly harping on the class difference between him and Jennifer. In an unexpected twist, shortly before his death, Sean drops a bombshell confession on Gordon that sends him into a tailspin. He pushes Jennifer away and flees back to London.

The news is devastating, and Jennifer reels from the implications. Heartbroken, Jennifer can't stand to stay on the estate where memories of Gordon are around every corner. She goes to Edinburgh to stay with her godmother, Ellen, who was instrumental in forcing Harrison back to the estate. I ached for Jennifer and her misery over the loss of Gordon. I loved Ellen's determination to get to the truth of Jennifer's unhappiness. Once she did, another twist turned Jennifer's problem on its head. There were some interesting developments as Gordon and Jennifer dealt with all of the ramifications. I liked the ending and how it worked out for them.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, a few things bugged me. I thought that Gordon and Jennifer were far too accepting of their separation. As deep as their love was, I didn't understand why Gordon believed the people who told him the lies about Jennifer. Even after making his fortune, he never bothered to contact her. That lack of trust didn't say much for his belief in their love. Jennifer doesn't get off scot-free either. Once she had his address, she could have gone to London to find him and demand answers. I also thought Harrison needed more consequences than he seemed to get.

[Susy Tomasiello · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://imieimagicimondi.blogspot.com/...

[Harlequin Books]

Categories
Victorian Historical Fiction, Scottish Historical Fiction, Contemporary Women's Fiction
Miniseries
The Highland Fling (Book #1)

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A romance that reads like a soap opera, this book sucked me in very quickly and had my heart tied up in knots by the time I was done reading! So much drama, mystery, villainry, and romance, the author threw in so many elements that could appeal to a variety of readers. I was very sad to hear the author passed away last month, and I assume this will be her last published work - it is a good one to end on. While it was predictable, it was also memorable in all the different facets of historical life it touched on. I can't talk about much without giving away a large portion of the plot, but suffice to say we are shown a lot of the shady elements of life in the 1800s. You certainly won't be bored!

Gordon McDonnell, the gardener's son, and Jennifer Adaire, the earl's daughter, were never meant to fall in love. Growing up, they were inseparable but doomed to be star-crossed lovers. As time passed, their friendship turned into something more, and it was then that their loved ones decided it was time to separate them. Both led to believe that the other was no longer interested in them, they were forced apart for five years. During that time, Gordon made a name for himself as the owner of two music halls and a gentleman's club, but he never forgot Jennifer. She never forgot him either, staying away from London and potential suitors, she's been running Adaire Hall virtually by herself. When Gordon's father becomes ill, Jennifer writes to Gordon, and he returns to find that their love has just been simmering all these years. Soon it is set aflame once more, but a horrifying secret threatens to doom them both to an eternity of heartbreak.

It all seems very familiar, and yet I found myself intrigued. I figured out fairly early on where the story was going to go, I had a feeling I knew how things would resolve themselves, and yet still, I couldn't help but read on. Gordon and Jennifer fit perfectly, like two puzzle pieces, and while I'm not usually a fan of love being rekindled so quickly after a long separation (I like more angst), it worked for them. We were given enough background, without settling too long on backstories, to understand how devoted they were to each other, and I also understood the variety of villains in their midst. Gordon's father and mother were absolutely dreadful, Jennifer's brother was disgusting, and it makes one wonder what Jennifer's godmother was doing all this time. She loved Jennifer, but she never did anything to help her find out what happened with Gordon all those years ago. Seemed odd to me, and I would have liked a bit more explanation there. Maggie was also a conundrum to me, for her actions didn't match what little we learned of her in the beginning of the book. Both she and Ellen (the godmother) needed more backstory, but even without it, the book flowed well.

I wish I could say I look forward to the next book, as I often do at the end of a review, but sadly there will be no more. Karen Ranney was a fine author, one who could write stories that captured the imaginations of her readers, and she will be dearly missed.

**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Highland Rogue is the first book in Karen Ranney's new Highland Fling series. I'm a long-time fan of Ms. Ranney, and I did not know until I was almost done with this book that she passed away before its publication. I was so sad to hear the news. I don't know if she had the next book of the series in the works at the time of her death. She will be greatly missed by her fans.

Jennifer Adaire and Gordon McDonnell were great friends as children growing up at Adaire Hall in Scotland, and they fell in love as they grew older. This was a match not to be countenanced, however, as Jennifer was the daughter of the Earl of Burfield and Gordon was the son of the gardener. Yet they were deeply in love, until Gordon was forced from Adaire Hall and had to make his own way in the world. Neither knew the truth as to what happened when they were separated. Five years later Gordon is a successful businessman, the owner of music halls and a posh men's club. When he receives a letter from Jennifer informing him that his father Sean is extremely ill and likely to die soon, he returns to Adaire Hall to say his goodbyes. The love between Jennifer and Gordon flares to life when they discover how they were torn apart, and they are given a second chance at happiness. Yet when a deep family secret surfaces, will they be torn apart again, this time permanently?

This was quite a lovely second chance romance between two very likeable leads. I admired Jennifer for not caring about the difference in their societal ranks. She was a strong young woman, who served as chatelaine of Adaire Hall when her odious brother Harrison deserted his young expecting wife to gamble and have affairs in London. Gordon, meanwhile, did everything he could to make his businesses a success, starting out with the money left to him by Jennifer's mother. He was strong enough to be open and honest about his love for Jennifer. When it looked like they would once again be denied a lifetime together, my heart broke for them and I cried along with Jennifer and felt the coldness in Gordon's soul. Some other characters also stood out, including Jennifer's godmother Ellen, and her mother Mary the countess, an important character even though deceased. It was a beautiful, heartfelt story.

Thank you, Ms. Ranney, for sharing your stories with us.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Alisa Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

to be honest, when I first started reading this book I didn't think I would be interested. See, I don't normally read the description of most books I request for review or even pick up to read by certain authors- and that was the case with this book. However, I loved this book!

I was so wrapped up in the story I didn't want to stop reading. At 60% I thought I had been reading this book forever but knew that there was much more to the story for it to be ending then I checked my progress and was shocked.
This story kept me so engrossed that I was fully invested in the characters lives and I just NEEDEd to know what was happening.
There were so many twists and turns and drama, lets not forget love and happy ever after.

*I received my copy in exchange for an honest review from Netgalley.com

[Eva · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I did enjoy the descriptions of landscapes, settings and Scottish folklore, I have to admit that the romance in this book didn't capture me. We meet Jennifer and Gordon when they're already in love, so there's nothing that sets my heart aflutter. There is much focus on the plot with the family secret (which I guessed very early) and the secondary characters, who seem more fleshed out than the protagonists themselves.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two children, Jennifer and Gordon, grow up together and fall in love. Due to class differences they are separated for five years. They reunite only to discover that they might not be able to be together after all. There is a nice twist to this story. I did feel it could have been a little bit shorter. I received an ARC from NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishing for my honest review.

[Ginny · Rating 2 out of 5]

Book was written fine but halfway through the "twist" was that they are maybe siblings. Being a big romance reader, I knew that they would not end up being siblings but also it was just so weird to read after that. I mean I like angst/longing/yearning but what in the world???

[Robin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Boring.

[Katy Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I sogni segreti di una gentildonna è il primo volume della serie Danze scozzesi. È un romanzo avvincente e ricco di colpi di scena, i due protagonisti dovranno faticare, e non poco, per avere il loro lieto fine.

Adoro i romanzi storici ambientati in Scozia, seppure io non ci sia mai stata, grazie a internet e ai vari documentari ho potuto apprezzare le lande dei Laird ricche di fascino e magia. Inoltre tutti i protagonisti scozzesi hanno un certo carisma capace di conquistare facilmente il cuore di ogni lettrice. Gordon McDonnell è proprio quel genere di scozzese di cui è facilissimo invaghirsi.
La storia di Gordon e Jennifer è molto travagliata, sin dalla sinossi si intuisce che siano in molti a ostacolare la loro relazione. Per prima cosa Jennifer è figlia di un conte mentre Gordon è figlio di un giardiniere, inoltre altri segreti sono stati taciuti, che alimentano la distanza tra i due che, nonostante tutto, non hanno mai smesso di amarsi.

La storia d’amore tra Gordon e Jennifer è molto romantica, ma a rendere particolarmente avvincente la lettura sono le difficoltà che entrambi dovranno affrontare. Tra loro esiste da sempre un rapporto paritario e molto intenso. Cresciuti insieme tra le mura di Adaire Hall sono diventati prima amici e poi si sono scoperti innamorati. Il primo allontanamento procura a entrambi un grandissimo dolore, ma a far vacillare pericolosamente il loro rapporto è una confessione non solo shoccante ma inaspettata che pare mettere la parola fine alla loro felicità. È una delle rare volte in cui ho temuto fino all’ultimo capitolo che, per loro, non ci fosse soluzione. Il finale è un crescendo di intensità e svolte, tuttavia ho sentito la mancanza di un epilogo che raccontasse anche se brevemente la loro vita insieme.
La trama è ricca e avvincente, la narrazione in terza persona alternata permette di comprendere in pieno la psicologia dei protagonisti. Lo stile di scrittura di Karen Ranney mi è particolarmente piaciuto: attento, diretto, minuzioso e coinvolgente. Il romanticismo è meno prevalente rispetto ad altri romanzi di questo tipo, specialmente perché l’attenzione del lettore è focalizzata sulle rivelazioni inaspettate con cui l’autrice ha tessuto la trama.
Ho particolarmente apprezzato le descrizioni riguardanti il lavoro di Gordon a Londra, il protagonista, infatti, è proprietario di diversi music hall di successo, molto in voga in epoca vittoriana. L’autrice, inoltre, è stata molto attenta a descrivere non solo i diversi stili di vita in Scozia e nella City, ma anche a fare riferimento a quei fatti storici realmente accaduti e a quelle piccole tradizioni che hanno un riscontro documentato, come spiega lei stessa a fine libro.
Sono davvero contenta di aver conosciuto il talento di questa autrice, spero di leggere presto anche gli altri romanzi della serie.

Recensione completa: https://virtualkaty.blogspot.com/2021...

[Kat · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Highland Rogue is the first book in Karen Ranney's new Highland Fling series. I'm a long-time fan of Ms. Ranney, and I did not know until I was almost done with this book that she passed away before its publication. I was so sad to hear the news. I don't know if she had the next book of the series in the works at the time of her death. She will be greatly missed by her fans.

Jennifer Adaire and Gordon McDonnell were great friends as children growing up at Adaire Hall in Scotland, and they fell in love as they grew older. This was a match not to be countenanced, however, as Jennifer was the daughter of the Earl of Burfield and Gordon was the son of the gardener. Yet they were deeply in love, until Gordon was forced from Adaire Hall and had to make his own way in the world. Neither knew the truth as to what happened when they were separated. Five years later Gordon is a successful businessman, the owner of music halls and a posh men's club. When he receives a letter from Jennifer informing him that his father Sean is extremely ill and likely to die soon, he returns to Adaire Hall to say his goodbyes. The love between Jennifer and Gordon flares to life when they discover how they were torn apart, and they are given a second chance at happiness. Yet when a deep family secret surfaces, will they be torn apart again, this time permanently?

This was quite a lovely second chance romance between two very likeable leads. I admired Jennifer for not caring about the difference in their societal ranks. She was a strong young woman, who served as chatelaine of Adaire Hall when her odious brother Harrison deserted his young expecting wife to gamble and have affairs in London. Gordon, meanwhile, did everything he could to make his businesses a success, starting out with the money left to him by Jennifer's mother. He was strong enough to be open and honest about his love for Jennifer. When it looked like they would once again be denied a lifetime together, my heart broke for them and I cried along with Jennifer and felt the coldness in Gordon's soul. Some other characters also stood out, including Jennifer's godmother Ellen, and her mother Mary the countess, an important character even though deceased. It was a beautiful, heartfelt story.

Thank you, Ms. Ranney, for sharing your stories with us.

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[MrsMascara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first in a planned series of books, but it is also Karen Ranney's last book, as she died in 2020. She is usually a reliably excellent writer, and I loved that this book had an original and interesting couple of plot twists. however, the book was not as compelling as it could have been, and I was not burning to finish it as I usually am, when I read her work.

Lady Jennifer Adaire and and Gordon McDonnell the gardener's son, have grown up together in Scotland, as they grow older they fall in love, and Gordon is taken under Jennifer's mother's wing, and taught good manners and fine speech, when the Countess leaves him some money in her will, he is forced to leave by the estate steward and Jennifer's brother Harrison. He leaves, believing Jennifer has forsaken him. Jennifer is hurt and confused by his departure, but neve quite believes Harrison's lies. When Gordon's mother Betty, dies (what a horrible woman), and his father is on his deathbed, Jennifer writes to him in London. Now rich and wildly successful, Gordon returns to see his father, but he is really there to see Jennifer and claim her as his own, now he can support her.

As Gordon works through his feelings of disassociation towards his father, and the odd way he has been treated by both his parents, he and Jennifer rediscover their connection, and just as they are about to find their happiness together, his father reveals a secret that devastates him, and ensures they can never be - this plot twist was horrific and pretty original in this genre. You can't see a way around this obstacle, and both parties are suffering badly.

How the author is going to resolve this seems to be unclear, until we get another very unexpected revelation that paves the way for their HEA.

The plotting was great, the characterisations not so much, I felt Jennifer, especially, was a ittle one dimensional, and one note. I didn't understand what Gordon was attracted to in her, and felt that she accepted the status quo too readily the first time they were separated. I also felt that Gordon's parents and Harrison did not really get any of their just desserts.

They probably wont now the author is no longer with us.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book an all opinions are my own

[Lindsay pinkcowlandreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two star-crossed lovers bound to be separated by society’s expectations…

Jennifer is the daughter of an Earl and Gordon is the son of the gardener. They are raised together on the same estate and Jennifers kind-hearted mother even has him educated with Jennifer and her son the Earl��� But as they grow up and the affection between Jennifer and Gordon becomes obvious, the Earl and his guardian conspire to have Gordon removed from the estate. He sent away without even a chance to speech to his precious Jennifer, whom he is told wants nothing to do with him.

Gordon heads to London and put an inheritance eh has received from the kind-hearted Countess to good use and in five years creates his own financial empire. When a letter from Jennifer arrives, telling him his father’s death is imminent, he finally decides to return to the estate… and confront Jennifer.

Jennifer has spent the last five years heartbroken after the sudden departure of Gordon. She has written to him many times and never heard bak… until he shows up at the estate a changed man.

Jennifer and Gordon soon reconnect only to discover more secrets and lies are afoot keeping them apart…

This was definitely a page turner for me! After the character reconnect so so early in the book, I had assumed class differences would create obstacles for them as a married couple, not that they would have major obstacles placed in their way to even getting married. I was surprised by their turn of fate and intrigued as they moved forward and made peace with their discoveries.

____________________________________

I was torn in my review for this book due to the recent racist comments the author made on her blog. I had committed to reading and reviewing this book prior to the comments being made and have kept my obligations.

I was greatly disappointed when I personally looked into the situation and saw hurtful words that were said.

I do not support her views.

____________________________________

FYI - Author Karen Ranney recently passed away, June 15th 2020.

____________________________________


My Highland Rogue by Karen Ranney is scheduled to release July 28th, 2020.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from HarperCollins Publishers, Avon Books through Edelweiss+. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.



#MyHighlandRogue #KarenRanney #Edelweiss #pinkcowlandreads

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adaire Hall, Scotland - 1865

Gordon McDonnell grew up as the son of the gardener and became friends with the Countess of Burfield. When seeing her sitting outside, he would bring her a bunch of flowers. They had nice chats and became friends. As Gordon grew up, he and Lady Jennifer, daughter of the Earl and Countess of Burfield began a friendship that turned into love. When the Countess passed away, she left Gordon a bequest and was then told to leave Adaire Hall and not return. Jennifer was heartbroken.

London - 1870

When Gordon first arrived in London, he worked and saved shrewdly, soon building a music hall followed by another. He is now very wealthy. When he learns that his father is very ill, he decides to return to Adaire Hall. Neither of his parents ever showed him love. Now his mother has passed away and his father is on his deathbed.

Gordon is welcomed at Adaire Hall by Lauren, the wife of Harrison the current earl and brother to Jennifer. Harrison always disliked Gordon because Gordon is much smarter than he is as proven when they all were educated together. Harrison stays in London, drinking, gambling, and womanizing while his pregnant wife stays at the Hall. Jennifer is happy to see him again but they are cool toward one another. Her hurt at him leaving and never returning for her has left her scarred.

Before his father died, Gordon learned a secret from the man that changed everything about who Gordon truly is. It is shocking but it also means that his love for Jennifer can never be. How can he let her go after working so hard and so long to be with her?

This story is full of emotion and angst that just pulled at my heart strings all the way through the book. I loved it.

The author, Karen Ranney, passed away in June 2020. I not only loved her books, but she was also a personal friend. A quiet woman, she never sought attention and accolades. She simply shared her wonderful stories with readers all over the world. She will be deeply missed.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Federica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recensione completa su On Rainy Days

Tra vecchi segreti portati alla luce, un incendio che ha sconvolto la vita ad Adaire Hall e un conte tanto inetto quanto bigotto, l’amore tra Jennifer Adaire e Gordon McDonnel deve dimostrare di poter affrontare anche l’impossibile e una rivelazione del tutto devastante.
I sogni segreti di una gentildonna, primo volume di una serie di autoconclusivi ambientata nella Scozia di tardo Ottocento, è un romance storico privo di riferimenti troppo espliciti e incentrato più sui sentimenti dei due protagonisti che su un loro tête-à-tête continuo. Con una narrazione in terza persona, focalizzata sui punti di vista di Jennifer, di Gordon e di Ellen, madrina della giovane […].
I sentimenti […] sono il fulcro dell’interazione tra i due giovani innamorati, che si lanciano in baci mozzafiato finché la vita non li mette a dura prova.
Orgoglio e determinazione, come una grande umanità, sono le caratteristiche principali di Gordon, un aristocratico nell’animo grazie alla madre di Jennifer e anche un gentiluomo, che trova nella lady di cui è innamorato la compagna ideale.
[…] E insieme a lui Jennifer, che è una donna temprata da un fratello ingestibile e capace di grande coraggio, mentre il mondo attorno a lei crolla e si trasforma.
Personalmente amo molto i romance storici, di questo tipo e anche più espliciti, e lo stile di Karen Ranney è stato una scoperta davvero piacevole e intrigante, capace di trascinarmi e coinvolgermi nelle disavventure e nelle emozioni dei suoi due protagonisti!

[Flower · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am very sorry to hear of the passing of the author, and while this book wasn't for me, I am sure there's an audience that will very much enjoy it.

I found most of the story mired in material that didn't sit well with me, from the emphasis on how slender, thin, and pale women are who are considered attractive, to the strident heteronormativity and whiteness of the world the characters live in.

The structure of the story, where most of the romance has occurred off-page before the start of the narrative, also didn't work for me. I enjoy second chance romance, but I can't help feeling that another, better, story happened prior to these two people drifting around Adaire Hall remembering how things used to be. Then, since there's no real reason for the main characters not to be together (they're sure they're still in love at 25% and planning to marry at 50%) there's very soap opera twist to increase the amount of Drama (yes, with an uppercase D). It was at the point that the Hero knew the Drama secret but the heroine doesn't, and then he's an ass to her because how dare she make him have feelings or something, that I stopped reading. There's do romance here, just Drama, and at this point I'm pretty sure that the MCs don't belong together, and honestly, the story doesn't feel like it's about their romance but instead past events and choices made by characters that aren't them.

I do hope this book finds a readership, but it's not me.

*ARC Provided by the Publisher, all opinions my own*

[TLynn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
My Highland Rogue is the first novel in the new series A Highland Fling and it was a good start for the series. It was a forbidden childhood romance with lots of twists and drama. The book started fast-paced but slowed down in the middle and then felt rushed in the end. I feel like the book focused too much on the side characters which slowed it down.
Gordon McDonnell’s father was the gardener for the Earl of Burfield. He grew up with Lady Jennifer and fell in love with her. Gordon was devasted when he was told that Jennifer had requested he leave Adaire Hall. He left and went to London where he made his fortune. After five years of living in London, he received Jennifer’s letter telling him his father was dying and he decided it was time to return to Adaire Hall.
Lady Jennifer Adaire grew up with Gordon and never cared about him being the gardener’s son, she loved him. She never knew why he had left and when he returns and tells her he still loves her, they make plans to be married. A secret is revealed when Gordon’s father is on his death bed. It shocked them and made it impossible for them to marry until another twist changes everything.
I liked the book even though I do wish there would have been more written about Gordon and Jennifer’s relationship and their future life together.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Highland Rogue (the first in a new series: A Highland Fling Novel) by Karen Ranney is an excellent historical romance that kept me interested from beginning to end. I am so excited to hear that this is the first (in hopefully) a long and entertaining series.

I loved everything about this book: the locations, (I love anything Scotland!), the plot, which was creative and engaging, and the full character cast.

I loved the main characters: Jennifer and Gordon. Their story is of love found, lost, and luckily reconnected. It was sad to see two people that were clearly made for each other, separated due to external circumstances. Despite all, being able to find love in one another makes for an excellent story. So sweet and romantic.

I can't wait to read more from this author, and most definitely, this series.

5/5 stars

Thank you NetGalley and Avon/HarperCollins Publishers for this ARC and in return I am submitting my voluntary and unbiased review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.