A Thimbleful of Honor

by Linda Lee Graham

"Years of resentment and a passionate romance throw a man into turmoil when he returns to the Scottish Highlands in this novel . . . intriguing until the end" ~ Kirkus Reviews

"With two multilayered protagonists and a strong foundation laid for sequels, this eloquent mix of historical fiction and romance will appeal to fans of both genres." ~ BookLife Reviews


Before his father offered to shelter Wylie's two sons, nothing could lure Wylie Macpherson back to Scotland. But after a bitter twenty-five-year exile, his homecoming proves even harder than anticipated. Instead of the scorn he expected, he's faced with the relief of a struggling village long awaiting his return. All Wylie wants is to retreat to his ship, yet the tug of his memories and responsibilities is difficult to ignore.

Having lost one man to the sea, Anna Macrae is cynical of men chasing dreams across oceans when everything one could want—family, community, friends—can be found in the Highlands. Though preoccupied hiding her father's infirmity while managing his business in his stead, she can't help but notice Wylie's sons need a parent, and their father is too absorbed in his own grief and anger to notice. As she grows close to them, her traitorous heart begins to spin fantasies of a life not meant to be.

Blindsided by a barrage of painful memories, Wylie pays little heed to the heat building between himself and Anna until he finds he can think of nothing else. Will he flee once again, or will he fight one more battle to claim the sweetest of prizes?

A poignant story of love, loss, and coming home, A Thimbleful of Honor is set in the heart of Scotland's Highlands, twenty-five years after the 1745 Jacobite rebellion.

350 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2020

About the author

History and real-life narratives had always blended in Graham's imagination, particularly when she delved into the stories of her family's ancestors. Eventually the engaging voices of characters who might have lived emerged. Tracing paper trails quickly gave way to creating her own stories, and she hasn't looked back since.

Reviews

[Morgan Many Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good romantic historical fiction, laying fertile ground for a strong and intriguing series looking at post-1745 Scottish life and culture through the lens of a MacPherson family’s trials and triumphs. Listening to this (with Alex Wyndham narrating beautifully) on the heels of finishing with Pamela Clare’s historicals I went in expecting dense historical narratives with characters at the center of some historical reality. Objectively, this could come off that way if all you read is HR Wallpaper, but I think what Graham’s A Thimbleful of Honor offers is more of an insight into Highland culture and life after the Uprisings and 1770s middle/merchant class—which to me is different from the romantic historical fictions from Stella Riley or Kate Mosse, for instance. I also went into this expecting a harrowing love story, but was instead greeted with something slow and quiet rather than gripping.

That is not to say that this detracted from the pleasure that this story gives, but just that reviews are chalking it up to something emotionally turbulent and epic when that is not this book at all. Rather, it felt like a gentle story of forgiveness, family, and—as the title decrees—honor.

The story circles on a group of multi-dimensional characters, including both the educated and village-dwelling Scots of a Highland parish, with the emotionally damaged Wiley and sweet, strong-willed Anna at the epicenter, as various players attempt to overcome twenty five years of unrequited love, betrayal, and misunderstandings. It is well developed, if a little ambivalent in tone at times but I think maybe Graham did this so as not to pass particular judgement on any individual misdeed. In truth, there was a lot in this that reminded me of Wolfsgate in that I frequently found myself wondering if there could be a happy way forward—if Wiley would marry Anna only to leave for the colony of Florida scarce years before the American Revolution (a very uncertain future to be sure), if they would compromise and remain in Scotland, if Wiley would leave Anna and his boys behind, if George and Wiley would ever reconcile... It was all exhausting, but in a good way, as I knew I was invested in the character’s lives.

The only reason I am not compelled to give this story a glowing 5 star review, full of waxing and tangents, is because I was not infrequently annoyed with the hero, Wiley, for his unwillingness to trust and forgive... and when that moment came I felt as though it wasn’t signposted in the internal dialogue. For the most part I really liked him and felt swoons etc., because he is brrrrraw and ginger-haired and 40 years of Scottish-come-Continental MAN . But there were three moments when he rather cruelly and incomprehensibly doubts Anna and didn’t—in my opinion—repent enough for it. I understood and was conscious of the fact that when he acted the way he did it was born for the circumstances of his exile and other subsequent life events but I was still essentially like, “Uh... Wow Wiley, way to be a NONCE.” That said, I liked his arc with regards to his two sons and his growth as a father and his eventual recognition that Anna is perfect for him and should be treated as such (wow, run-on sentence but not going to edit it because #sundayispancakesinbedday)

Anna, being both sweet tempered and not (in a very realistic way) did not stand up for herself the way I thought she should of, which annoyed me a little. She struck me as having very low-self esteem—fair, what with being a 32 year old spinster in a quaint Highland village—but it disappointed me that she didn’t seem to overtly overcome that. She still seemed to be the one trying to win Wiley when it felt like it should have been the other way around even if to just confirm to Anna, “You are worth being someone’s greatest dream.” But then, she is beautiful and tender of spirit and her harboring of a secret lifelong devotion for Wiley was really well done.

These may seem like some major gripes but they aren’t, just an observation of a flaw—in my mind—in the relationship dynamic. Overall, I think this was very, very good and I will patiently wait for more from Graham in the hopes she will continue with the MacPherson story. The resolution of all the issues in this installment were incredibly logical which we all know I would GREATLY APPRECIATE. Highly recommend if you are looking for something different, and want a stories in contexts outside the aristocracy. This is a very well researched (from the different oat cakes, to peat cutting and preparation, to Kirk [church] council dynamics) and well delivered, and I found it quite delightful.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

The reader will enjoy how the author highlights the features of the Scottish Highlands that give a vivid picture of the environment in which the main characters lived making the novel very delightful.

Read full review in the 2020 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Jamie Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Transformative Power of Love

If you are accustomed to reading the typical, relatively light historical romances (which I myself adore), this book will surprise you. I would call it more historical fiction with romance. The hero in particular is struggling, returning to Scotland from France 25 years after Culloden, heart-weary with the death of his wife while attempting to do the best for his children. Compared to most historical romance, it is sad and a little bleak at times. But, if you enjoy historical fiction, the story is incredibly heartfelt. The hero and the heroine eventually bring out the best in each other, providing hope for their futures and those in their care. This book shows the transformative power of love in difficult circumstances. As one who believes that we can become our best selves if we have such a supportive, loving relationship, I love when fiction reflects that as it does in this story. The author creates complex characters who are believable and relatable. As the hero and heroine got to know each other, the interaction between them was wonderful as well as the way she took to his sons. Not always an easy read, like much of historical fiction, but a very good one.

I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.

My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in the new Macpherson series and I think it is off to an amazing start. This is also my first time reading something by this author and I guarantee I will be reading more! The author does a really great job of bringing the story and characters to life with her vivid descriptions and attention to details. Wylie returns home after being in hiding for 25 years after the Scottish uprising. Anne has been in love with him since she was a child and still is, but Wylie has much bitterness in his heart after all that has happened. Wylie has a lot of past pains to deal with before he can start to heal and open his heart to love. This is a brilliantly written romance with great historical details and had me completely captivated. I enjoyed this first installment and look forward to reading more in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Misty Ortman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I have truly enjoyed this story. Wylie MacPherson has had a life worthy of telling.. Linda Lee Graham has done an excellent job portraying the life one would have to have lived in 1745 era. She has truly sold me on her books. The MacPherson men have had hard lives. From wars, women, and family it will keep you reading to find out how things end up. I really enjoyed the end of this book, but am so looking forward to reading the rest of her books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a good romance with lots of history. There is good dialogue between characters. There are issues that each of the characters have to deal with that make good reading. Interesting and entertaining characters and story. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reluctant Laird🐺🏰

ADULT Georgian Period Scottish Romance💕 and Adventure.
1770 Scotland..
Wylie MacPherson🐺🍆⛲💪👊, a banished Jacobite, is returning to Scotland🏰🐑🐂 after being pardoned. He arrives from France a widower with his two half French sons. He was supposed to meet his father in London, but he decided to take the boys on to Scotland where they would live with his father, the Laird, at his estate of Glencorach🏰🐑🐂 .

Wylie's plan was to go alone to the colonies in America , get established in Florida, then send for his sons.

All plans go awry when he finds out his father has died. Wylie🐺🍆⛲💪 is the Laird of Glencorach🏰🐑🐂 now! Anna MacRae💃💋, just a 👧girl when he left, is also there waiting for him to return.

ARC Provided by Hidden 💎Gems.
I also got this ebook with KU.

This is a long, emotional, deeply involved and intense book with a large amount of character development, and also quite a few characters. The ending was an unexpected surprise! This is not light 📚reading, there is a big story here!

[Rosie Trzewik · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first of a new series. The story is of Wylie MacPherson, the son of a Laird that went into hiding in France in 1745 during the Scottish uprising. Fast forward 25 years later, Wylie was given a pardon and against his better judgment returns home with his two sons. Still grieving the death of his wife, he finds that his father just passed away and he is now the new Laird. Many things have changed in 25 years, but he has not forgiven his cousin George for betraying him to the British. Anne was a little girl at the time and always was in love with Wylie, but Wylie now returns as a bitter man. A man who can wait to sell his inheritance and start a new adventure in East Florida.
There are a lot of issues Wylie needs to deal with, and hidden truths that comes to light. If you love the “Outlander” you will enjoy reading this book.
I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.

[Judymay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has just been released on audible, narrated by the dulcet voiced Alex Wyndham, so I had to listen. But while I could listen to Mr Wyndham read the phone book, it's not his narration that has me enraptured.

I enjoy a romance about grown up couples, people who have lived and know a little about life. That's this novel. Our heroine often laments being pitied as a spinster and our hero is a widowed father of a teenage son and cheeky 7 yo who regularly talks of things being long in the past.

If there's one fault it's that the hero spent too long dwelling and not enough time redeeming but that's it. The novel is not perfect but I'm not rating it on its literary merit, I rate on enjoyment and I truly enjoyed this book.

[K. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Be patient

For the first chapter or 2, I didn't much care for this book and in particular Wylie, the main character. I'd become so fond of David & Liam from the "Voices" books, and this guy didn't feel anywhere near as appealing. Give him - and this book - a chance & a bit of time! As you begin to understand why he's so grumpy, the story & the characters will grow on you. I loved learning more about Scottish customs & culture as I have Scotts ancestors. Graham did her research!

[Eszter Szika · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the Outlander series I developed a deeper interest for Scotland and it’s history. That was one of the reasons I requested a copy of this book on NetGalley.
A Thimbleful of Honor takes place twenty-five years after the Jacobites and the Battle of Culloden, which was the biggest loss in the Scottish history.
Wylie Macpherson comes back to Scotland to leave his sons with his father as he can’t fill this role properly. He soon gets to know that his father is dead and he needs to face his memories and new responsibilities. While Wylie comes to terms with his duties he can’t be a father. Anna can see the missing parent role for the man’s sons and starts to fill that position for them, with that she grows close to Wylie.
A beautifully written historical novel with realistic characters, historical background and some romance.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Victoria Rodríguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. This story takes place in Scotland, a magical and extraordinary land. Before his father offered to host Wylie's two children, nothing could attract Wylie Macpherson back to Scotland. After a long exile that lasted 25 years, his return seems to be even more complicated than what he was anticipating. Wylie encounters a village that longed for his return, but he only wants to retire to his ship. However, Wylie has crucial responsibilities that will not be easy to ignore. Anna Macrae lost someone at sea, so she is a bit cynical of men who chase their dreams across the oceans. She thinks that everything that someone could want or need as family, community, friends can be found in the Highlands. Anna runs her father's business and soon sees that Wylie's children need a parent. Not only that, Anna manages to identify the sorrow and rage that Wylie feels. Maybe, Anna's interaction with Wylie could lead to something more. I liked the details in this book because the author describes various historical elements of the time. Anna is a very tenacious and intelligent young woman. She was my favorite character because of her simple way of seeing things. The Highlanders lived through a tremendously difficult time during the eighteenth century. I think this novel manages to describe their condition of a life well. On the other hand, this was a lovely romance that made this book an enjoyable story. I thank NetGalley and Repository Press LLC for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[gj indieBRAG · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are proud to announce that A THIMBLEFUL OF HONOR by Linda Lee Graham is a B.R.A.G.Medallion Honoree. This tells readers that this book is well worth their time and money!

[Helgaleena Healingline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a painstakingly realistic historical tale revolving around an exile from the Jacobite uprising, pardoned and returning to his ancestral home. The author does not shirk from describing the ubiquity of earthen floors, homespun, tithes of labor, and the young age at which children were put to work and began their sex lives.

Our hero seems far from heroic and in the course of survival has done many a deed he considers dishonorable. In the midst of switching from privateering to respectable merchantry, his father has died before he could meet his two half-French grandsons. Wylie is caught out by having the lairdship thrust on him and reacts quite poorly. It seems that only his family and childhood friends remember that following in his father's footsteps was his greatest wish.

Anna has had a crush on Wylie since childhood and her sympathetic view of him is often all that keeps us readers from washing our hands of the whole predicament in disgust. She's been functioning as the local factor herself as her father becomes ever more senile and unable to perform his factor duties. Add in the beloved cousin who was railroaded into collaboration during the Troubles in order to safeguard the entire valley, whom Wylie has never forgiven, and his wastrel Redcoat nephew selling his uncle's cattle on the sly, and the parish needs a laird that Wylie thinks he is no longer. Like the other Highland females, Anna has valiant spirit and unbelievable forbearance. If Wylie can't come to his senses and treat her as she deserves, she's honor bound to tear out her own heart and reject him, and nearly does.

Because all this is treated realistically, it takes many months and a long book to unfold. But in the end, our hero discovers in himself that his wrong assumptions of decades were only concealing his 'thimbleful'. Children mature and wrongs are righted. I'm glad I stuck it out.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌄Well done Georgian period romance💕

4.5🌟stars
Author Linda Lee Graham deftly sets the scene for a family feud drama and then introduces romance and reconciliation to this Scotland-set 1700's tale of once close family tragically affected by the Jacobite rebellion of 1745. Two cousins separated in the midst of war and distanced by resentment and betrayal. Wylie, the male lead, reluctantly returns to Scotland after decades in exile and finds a good woman and a family history that diverges from his long-held understanding. The story is filled with great characters, some tense action moments, heated though not really steamy romance, and a fair lesson in life in mid eighteenth century Scotland.

I really liked that even seemingly bad egg characters like Jay could be redeemed and the author anchored Wylie's impulsive nature with Anna, the female lead: such a strong, intelligent and compassionate character.

I thoroughly enjoyed their journey.😊

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5* Borrowed audio version-Alex Wyndham

I think I may have found a new author. Always a good thing since some of my old favorites are not working for me lately. This is the first of what is supposed to be a continuing series and that pleases me much. The Goodreads synopsis gives a very good summary of this book featuring a somewhat older couple (not really old to me but around 40 for hero and 32 for heroine). I enjoyed reading about this time in Scotland (25 years post Jacobite rebellion) and both characters were likeable to me. The hero was a widower with two sons, one in his teens. Wylie MacPherson has returned to his home in Scotland after a 25 year absence, finally pardoned for his role in the Jacobite rebellion. When Wylie was forced to leave he was only 15 and Anna, the heroine, was only 8. Of course, things are much different now and therein lies the basis for the story.

Looking forward to the follow-up and may check out the few other books (also a series it appears) that Linda Lee Graham has written.

[Just another reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful historical fiction, detailing the stories of two cousins Wylie and George, whose fates get irrevocably impacted by the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion. Whilst their fathers were lairds in the Scottish Highlands, they are forced to part during the aftermath of the rebellion. Spanning through countries and decades, the story looks at the emotional consequences of political events and how it leaves a lasting scar. The dose on Scottish history and the brilliant vivid narration of the Scottish locales are a treat to the reader. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, and my thanks to Graham, and the publishers Repository Press LLC, for gifting me with a copy of this book.

[Wendy Lewis · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's a well-written work of historical fiction, but I didn't feel much for the characters. They seemed flat and their problems didn't resonant with me. I was also confused several times as to who was being talked about, there were a lot of secondary characters to track.

[Julia · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF somewhere in chapter 16

Didn't care for the characters.

[Patricia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Audiobook