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Highlanders of the Mackenzie Castle #1
How to Woo a Highlander
People's arrangements cannot chain the female heart; it flutters free.
Jane Baxendale, the daughter of an English captain, ought to do her duty and marry the Mackenzie laird for the sake of her country. All she could hope for is an amicable marriage of convenience. But wishes rarely come true when one’s heart is involved…
On her way there, she sees a Highlander from her fiancé’s clan in danger, and it is her duty to aid him.
Alastair is in a tight spot. When a beautiful Sassenach saves him, he is annoyed with her intervention, though he cannot control his fast-beating heart. Alastair intended to lead a life of loneliness, and here she comes changing his plans. However, it’s not as if he’ll meet her again… Or so he thought…
One’s plans cannot compete with the twinges of fate. Jane is set to marry Alastair’s best friend, and he has to see her every day in someone else’s arms…
How will Alastair act on his feelings without betraying his best friend? And will Jane be able to stop an oncoming war between England and Scotland?
It was hate at the first sight, but then it became love…
"How to Woo a Highlander" is a STANDALONE Historical Scottish romance novel. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
*If you like brawny Highland warriors with a soft heart, and steamy romantic stories depicting the majestic and mysterious Scottish Highlands, then How to Woo a Highlander is the perfect novel for you.
Jane Baxendale, the daughter of an English captain, ought to do her duty and marry the Mackenzie laird for the sake of her country. All she could hope for is an amicable marriage of convenience. But wishes rarely come true when one’s heart is involved…
On her way there, she sees a Highlander from her fiancé’s clan in danger, and it is her duty to aid him.
Alastair is in a tight spot. When a beautiful Sassenach saves him, he is annoyed with her intervention, though he cannot control his fast-beating heart. Alastair intended to lead a life of loneliness, and here she comes changing his plans. However, it’s not as if he’ll meet her again… Or so he thought…
One’s plans cannot compete with the twinges of fate. Jane is set to marry Alastair’s best friend, and he has to see her every day in someone else’s arms…
How will Alastair act on his feelings without betraying his best friend? And will Jane be able to stop an oncoming war between England and Scotland?
It was hate at the first sight, but then it became love…
"How to Woo a Highlander" is a STANDALONE Historical Scottish romance novel. No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
*If you like brawny Highland warriors with a soft heart, and steamy romantic stories depicting the majestic and mysterious Scottish Highlands, then How to Woo a Highlander is the perfect novel for you.
- GenresHistorical Romance
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2020
194 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Shona Thompson
78 books66 followersShona Thompson is an American based author of Historical Scottish Romance. She spent her student years in the majestic city of Edinburgh, where she fell in love with the history, the legends and the people of Scotland.
Her own Highlander husband was the one who inspired her and awoke her passion for writing. He became her muse, and all her love stories are dedicated to him.
Shona is always happy to communicate with her readers. Subscribe to her newsletter to stay up to date with her newest releases and win little treats.
Her own Highlander husband was the one who inspired her and awoke her passion for writing. He became her muse, and all her love stories are dedicated to him.
Shona is always happy to communicate with her readers. Subscribe to her newsletter to stay up to date with her newest releases and win little treats.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 4, 2020
⚔️⚔️ONE WILD ROLLERCOASTER⚔️⚔️
Hatching hellions! Shona lays this baby out with all the chaos, shenanigans and mayhem, raising the stakes and keeping it real, binding this jewel together flawlessly. A churning vortex of baffling circumstances and vexing mishaps, witnessing the horrendous trials and challenging tribulations, noting the deadly twists and shocking turns, strolling with the honor, loyalty, passion and vigor, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Tempting, tangled and tightly entwined, baring the wonky quirks and defying bents, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never envisioned. Limitations are amplified and exploited, laying out all the fervent facts, feels and fiascos, unveiling revelations with such intensity and precision, riding the currents and breaching waves, blasting this gem into a frenzy with an astonishing realization. Bumbling through a minefield of perilous drama, unfolding secrets, chilling danger, intense intrigue, damning betrayal and electrifying suspense, negotiating through the cunning manipulations and malicious intent, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing thrilling emotions and a growing bond, binding them to one another perfectly. You feel everything the characters feel as if you're part of the adventure instead of on the sidelines. The complexity of the characters are realistic, authentic and original with relatable qualities and individual traits, adding depth and diversity, transforming into formidable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Shona, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Hatching hellions! Shona lays this baby out with all the chaos, shenanigans and mayhem, raising the stakes and keeping it real, binding this jewel together flawlessly. A churning vortex of baffling circumstances and vexing mishaps, witnessing the horrendous trials and challenging tribulations, noting the deadly twists and shocking turns, strolling with the honor, loyalty, passion and vigor, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Tempting, tangled and tightly entwined, baring the wonky quirks and defying bents, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never envisioned. Limitations are amplified and exploited, laying out all the fervent facts, feels and fiascos, unveiling revelations with such intensity and precision, riding the currents and breaching waves, blasting this gem into a frenzy with an astonishing realization. Bumbling through a minefield of perilous drama, unfolding secrets, chilling danger, intense intrigue, damning betrayal and electrifying suspense, negotiating through the cunning manipulations and malicious intent, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. The attraction and chemistry builds as each layer is peeled back exposing thrilling emotions and a growing bond, binding them to one another perfectly. You feel everything the characters feel as if you're part of the adventure instead of on the sidelines. The complexity of the characters are realistic, authentic and original with relatable qualities and individual traits, adding depth and diversity, transforming into formidable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Shona, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
August 4, 2020
This book is fantastic and I loved it! It was full of love, loss and a betrayal I never saw coming! Jane is the daughter of an Englishman sent to Scotland to marry William, the Laird of Clan Mackenzie. On her way there, she encounters Alastair, fighting a group of bandits. She has her men help him and is then forced to scold him when he is rude to her men. The two have a tense relationship when they meet again in the castle and he is rude to her again. But as time goes by, she must spend more time with Alastair, as William is forced to prepare for war with a neighboring clan. Over time, she and Alastair will come to love each other but he will be hurt when he overhears her father trying to force the engagement of Jane and William. It is at this time that the war begins and Alastair takes his own men to face the Grant clan army ahead of William's army and that of his allies. Jane will follow, putting her in danger and one last night spent with Alastair will have them waking up to the face of a betrayal by someone close to them all. Jane is taken by the traitor and soon William will arrive with her father and his English army as well to stop the war and save Jane. She will prove her bravery once more when all three come face to face with their betrayer. In the end, they return to the castle, William and Jane's father both give their blessing and Jane and Alastair are married and begin their life together. Three years later, a woman from Alastair's past will arrive and leave Jane to wonder how she will change the lives of her family.
I am volunteering my honest review for an ARC copy of this book.
I am volunteering my honest review for an ARC copy of this book.
August 6, 2020
How to Woo a Highlander.
Wow what a thrilling,heart stopping story.Arranged marriage to the Laird and Jane the not so happy bride.But being a duty full daughter would go ahead with it to please her father and William as he is an angel to look at and would make a good husband.But like all good story’s,the twists and turns are filled with suspense and deceit.Which you do not see coming.
Wow what a thrilling,heart stopping story.Arranged marriage to the Laird and Jane the not so happy bride.But being a duty full daughter would go ahead with it to please her father and William as he is an angel to look at and would make a good husband.But like all good story’s,the twists and turns are filled with suspense and deceit.Which you do not see coming.
August 7, 2020
The sound of metal clashing against metal could be heard carried on the wind and as Jane gave her guard the ok to go help little did she know sparks would fly when she meets Alasdair, the very brawny highlander. Alasdair, the right-hand man to Laird William, is left speechless when this most beautiful spitfire he ever sees gives him a most eloquent put down... who does this English lass think she is! As the sparks fly between Alasdair and Jane in How to Woo a Highlander will have you captivated from start to finish. Shona Thompson soul-stirring story brims with tension building twists, a story filled with characters that come off the pages and will pull into their tale, with remarkable emotions, it is well-written, with a good plott, and great dialogue. As the war with clan Grant comes closer and close for the Mackenzie clan a twisted and dangerous more than the most venomous snake weaves a web to bring down clan Mackenzie. As Alasdair and Jane search their hearts for the answers to the conflicts inside them they must battle their rising passions in this heartfelt story that unfolds beautifully with drama, sizzling passion, uncertainties, chaos, trials and tribulations, and while the suspense escalates, tensions build and treachery abounds that will bring the secrets to light makes this one outstanding story! I am looking forward to find out if William finds his Happy Ending!
September 21, 2021
An excellent plot filled with action, intrigue, danger, betrayal and romance.
This riveting story is chock-full of action, intrigue, danger, betrayal and romance. Jane is a spirited English rose sent to the Highlands in an arranged marriage by her military father to the Laird of the McKenzie clan. Laird William is not looking for a love match because his heart was already given to another woman many years ago. But Fate steps in and Jane falls in love with the Laird's best friend, Alastair. You will enjoy seeing how their love blossoms, in spite of the dangers and betrayals afoot. An excellent action-packed book, with an endearing happy ending. Kudos to Ms Thompson on an outstanding endeavor.
This riveting story is chock-full of action, intrigue, danger, betrayal and romance. Jane is a spirited English rose sent to the Highlands in an arranged marriage by her military father to the Laird of the McKenzie clan. Laird William is not looking for a love match because his heart was already given to another woman many years ago. But Fate steps in and Jane falls in love with the Laird's best friend, Alastair. You will enjoy seeing how their love blossoms, in spite of the dangers and betrayals afoot. An excellent action-packed book, with an endearing happy ending. Kudos to Ms Thompson on an outstanding endeavor.
October 15, 2024
Unexpected twist.
Jane, the daughter of an English captain is betrothed to a Scottish Laird, William whom she has never met. On the way to William’s castle her escort helps a group of 3 Scots who are outnumbered and attacked by brigands. The Scots led by Alistair are not happy about their help so the first meeting between Alistair and Jane did not go well. But there was a definite attraction on both sides. When they realize they will be living in the same castle, it is a challenge. This book kept me turning pages. Loved the characters and the storyline. So many things going on. Forbidden attraction, Longing for best friend’s girl, pending war, lost love, betrayal, passion, an unexpected twist,etc.
Jane, the daughter of an English captain is betrothed to a Scottish Laird, William whom she has never met. On the way to William’s castle her escort helps a group of 3 Scots who are outnumbered and attacked by brigands. The Scots led by Alistair are not happy about their help so the first meeting between Alistair and Jane did not go well. But there was a definite attraction on both sides. When they realize they will be living in the same castle, it is a challenge. This book kept me turning pages. Loved the characters and the storyline. So many things going on. Forbidden attraction, Longing for best friend’s girl, pending war, lost love, betrayal, passion, an unexpected twist,etc.
October 14, 2020
What do you do when’s you fall in love with your Laird’s betrothed? You pray that you are more than your weakness. The Laird needs to marry and makes a deal with an English Lord to marry his daughter. He doesn’t love Jane and doesn’t have the time to woo her. It puts her in the care of his second in command, Alastair. Jane and Alastair fall in love and there is war threatening the land. This story will keep you on the edge while wondering how are they going to be together? Jane surprised me with her attitude change, and how she stands up to her father. The characters are well developed and sometimes I could actually feel their pain while reading.
August 11, 2020
A Delightful Highland Romance
How to Woo a Highlander features Jane, who travels from England to the Scottish highlands for her arranged marriage. I really enjoyed Jane, she was my favorite character in this story. Full of curiosity, bravery, and stubbornness, she is every bit an adventurous woman stuck in a world that does not appreciate that. An enjoyable story and a fine example of sexy Scottish Highland romance.
How to Woo a Highlander features Jane, who travels from England to the Scottish highlands for her arranged marriage. I really enjoyed Jane, she was my favorite character in this story. Full of curiosity, bravery, and stubbornness, she is every bit an adventurous woman stuck in a world that does not appreciate that. An enjoyable story and a fine example of sexy Scottish Highland romance.
August 5, 2020
English lady meets her Scottish love
This young woman is very much not a lady. Her father arranges for her to marry a laird. That doesn't keep her from getting into trouble. Her motto is act first then think. My favorite kind of girl to read about. Of course no one wants to have a daughter like her. Very enjoyable story.
This young woman is very much not a lady. Her father arranges for her to marry a laird. That doesn't keep her from getting into trouble. Her motto is act first then think. My favorite kind of girl to read about. Of course no one wants to have a daughter like her. Very enjoyable story.
August 15, 2020
Mix up or fate
I liked Jane and her independent spirit. I could understand how she felt to be ignored by the man she was supposed to marry. He kept throwing Alasdair and her together so how could they not become friends?
A traitor in the castle add twists and turns you will not see coming.
I liked Jane and her independent spirit. I could understand how she felt to be ignored by the man she was supposed to marry. He kept throwing Alasdair and her together so how could they not become friends?
A traitor in the castle add twists and turns you will not see coming.
August 5, 2020
"There truly is no black and white in life"
It was a slow build up but boy did the surprise make up for it. I was stunned! I didn't see that coming! It's bloody, brutal, and unbelievably multilayered.
It was a slow build up but boy did the surprise make up for it. I was stunned! I didn't see that coming! It's bloody, brutal, and unbelievably multilayered.
August 7, 2020
Entertaining story about an unwanted arranged marriage. Trouble is Jane’s middle name and it certainly finds her in Scotland. Lots of exciting twists and turns keep you turning the pages. A good read.
August 9, 2020
Absolutely a ***** Book!!
I loved this story so much! Shona you outdid yourself with this one. I just can’t wait for you to release your next Book! Thank you for sharing your beautiful story! 💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰
I loved this story so much! Shona you outdid yourself with this one. I just can’t wait for you to release your next Book! Thank you for sharing your beautiful story! 💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰
August 9, 2020
A must read
A very captivating story. I love the chemistry between the characters, the adventure, suspense and the action. The plot was well written not rushed it was like watching a movie unfold. Great job as usual.
A very captivating story. I love the chemistry between the characters, the adventure, suspense and the action. The plot was well written not rushed it was like watching a movie unfold. Great job as usual.
September 28, 2020
A great love story
I reviewed this book on my other iPad and I don’t know why it didn’t come on this one. This was a exciting story and kept me reading. I wonder if there is a book with the lady mentioned in the last of the extended epilogue.
I reviewed this book on my other iPad and I don’t know why it didn’t come on this one. This was a exciting story and kept me reading. I wonder if there is a book with the lady mentioned in the last of the extended epilogue.
May 25, 2022
How to Woo a Highlander
A good and enjoyable story about a young woman promised to marry a laird but she fell in love with his advisor The characters are courageous and determined Well written and I loved reading
A good and enjoyable story about a young woman promised to marry a laird but she fell in love with his advisor The characters are courageous and determined Well written and I loved reading
June 24, 2025
Hearts desire
Another excellent book by Shona Thompson. This book has a variety of things going on. A bride to be falling in love. The betrayal of a friend and a Laird trying to do what is right for the clan. A great start to
The new series.
Another excellent book by Shona Thompson. This book has a variety of things going on. A bride to be falling in love. The betrayal of a friend and a Laird trying to do what is right for the clan. A great start to
The new series.
Want to read
August 4, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/4/2020)! 🎁
August 6, 2020
Entertaining
I am amazed that many books show a highlander marrying an English female. It seems a common thread. Good story.
I am amazed that many books show a highlander marrying an English female. It seems a common thread. Good story.
August 11, 2020
Loved this book
Fell.in love with the characters of this tale of adventure love betrayal heartache and happiness kept me on the edge of my seat looking forward to.the sequel
Fell.in love with the characters of this tale of adventure love betrayal heartache and happiness kept me on the edge of my seat looking forward to.the sequel
August 25, 2020
Worth reading.
A wonderful read. Jane a feisty English Lady and Alistair a fearless Scottish fighter. Shona wrote a book with good plot with likeable characters.
A wonderful read. Jane a feisty English Lady and Alistair a fearless Scottish fighter. Shona wrote a book with good plot with likeable characters.
September 3, 2020
The book is fantastic! I really loved it. I still have to read the extended epilogue. I loved the story and the ending was just perfect.
June 5, 2021
Great story
Interesting characters and a believable plot .if you enjoy Scottish adventure this is one. Plenty of action mixed with surprises
Interesting characters and a believable plot .if you enjoy Scottish adventure this is one. Plenty of action mixed with surprises
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews