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Merry Mayhem: A Collection of Yuletide Rogues and Outlaws
Original novellas by O'Donnell... Kean... Watson... Markland... Welfonder... MacRae...
Let six award-winning and bestselling authors sweep you away to Medieval Scotland and England for the holidays, with six never-before published tales of Yuletide rogues who steal their ladies' hearts. Whether tales of midwinter legends, daring escapes, and second chance love, or pirates, bets, and outwitting villains, a merry sort of mayhem abounds! O'Donnell, Kean, Watson, Markland, Welfonder, and MacRae deliver heartwarming novellas sure to tug your heartstrings and warm your coldest midwinter days...
To Rescue a Highland Rebel - Anna Markland
Kenzie will go to any lengths to rescue her beloved Teague from the Tower of London. He is sentenced to be executed for his role in a Scottish rebellion, and few have escaped the mighty fortress prison. Will her plan succeed?
An Outlaw's Desire (sequel to A Knight's Desire) - Catherine Kean
Coerced into attacking Millenstowe Keep days before Christmas, Pitt Rutherford is surprised to discover Lady Blythe Welborne, the only woman he's ever truly loved, is within its walls. Pitt must choose whether his obligation to claim a legendary treasure is worth more than a second chance at true love.
The Highlander's Pirate Bride - Cathy MacRae
As the pirate The Black MacNeill, Rona MacNeill has stolen more than one English ship to keep her clan from starving. With Yule only days away, will the theft of the wrong ship land her in a hangman's noose? Or the arms of a Highlander?
The Capture of Finnan MacLeod - E. Elizabeth Watson
Lady Katherine MacKenzie and Laird Finnan MacLeod will be married by Christmastide, a much anticipated wedding. But when Finnan mysteriously disappears before their ceremony--after stealing her virtue--could it be that he's truly a rogue like no other? Or could it be that a plot is afoot to steal her fortune, and she must learn of Finnan's true fate?
Finnan MacLeod is a mighty warrior, but not even he can fend off the crushing ambush that has seen him imprisoned right before his wedding. When he discovers the blackguard behind his predicament, Finnan must escape before he loses Katherine. Yet he cannot do so without help, and might just need his lady to rescue a warrior in distress...
The Yule Bride - Laurel O'Donnell
Lady Harmony loves the Yule, but her father betroths her to a rogue who hates it because of the great personal loss he suffered during a past Yule. Harmony hatches a plan with her betrothed - if she can help him find the magic of the Yule in three days' time, they will proceed with the marriage. If not, he will leave. Can she help him discover the joy of the Yule or will she lose him forever?
A Yuletide Promise - Sue-Ellen Welfonder
Lady Alanna Grant might be cursed, but she still believes in wonders - until Christmas is ruined by Callum MacCulloch, a pirate who kidnaps her. A ruse pressed upon Callum by highest orders in the land, the rescue hurtling them on an unexpected path and proving a thousand-year Yuletide legend, the promise of truest love.
To Rescue a Highland Rebel - Anna Markland
Kenzie will go to any lengths to rescue her beloved Teague from the Tower of London. He is sentenced to be executed for his role in a Scottish rebellion, and few have escaped the mighty fortress prison. Will her plan succeed?
An Outlaw's Desire (sequel to A Knight's Desire) - Catherine Kean
Coerced into attacking Millenstowe Keep days before Christmas, Pitt Rutherford is surprised to discover Lady Blythe Welborne, the only woman he's ever truly loved, is within its walls. Pitt must choose whether his obligation to claim a legendary treasure is worth more than a second chance at true love.
The Highlander's Pirate Bride - Cathy MacRae
As the pirate The Black MacNeill, Rona MacNeill has stolen more than one English ship to keep her clan from starving. With Yule only days away, will the theft of the wrong ship land her in a hangman's noose? Or the arms of a Highlander?
The Capture of Finnan MacLeod - E. Elizabeth Watson
Lady Katherine MacKenzie and Laird Finnan MacLeod will be married by Christmastide, a much anticipated wedding. But when Finnan mysteriously disappears before their ceremony--after stealing her virtue--could it be that he's truly a rogue like no other? Or could it be that a plot is afoot to steal her fortune, and she must learn of Finnan's true fate?
Finnan MacLeod is a mighty warrior, but not even he can fend off the crushing ambush that has seen him imprisoned right before his wedding. When he discovers the blackguard behind his predicament, Finnan must escape before he loses Katherine. Yet he cannot do so without help, and might just need his lady to rescue a warrior in distress...
The Yule Bride - Laurel O'Donnell
Lady Harmony loves the Yule, but her father betroths her to a rogue who hates it because of the great personal loss he suffered during a past Yule. Harmony hatches a plan with her betrothed - if she can help him find the magic of the Yule in three days' time, they will proceed with the marriage. If not, he will leave. Can she help him discover the joy of the Yule or will she lose him forever?
A Yuletide Promise - Sue-Ellen Welfonder
Lady Alanna Grant might be cursed, but she still believes in wonders - until Christmas is ruined by Callum MacCulloch, a pirate who kidnaps her. A ruse pressed upon Callum by highest orders in the land, the rescue hurtling them on an unexpected path and proving a thousand-year Yuletide legend, the promise of truest love.
708 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2020
53 people are currently reading
59 people want to read
About the author
Anna Markland
246 books254 followersAnna Markland is a Canadian author with a keen interest in genealogy. She writes historical romance about family honor, ancestry and roots. Her novels are intimate love stories filled with passion and adventure. Following a fruitful career in teaching, Anna transformed her love of writing and history into engaging works of fiction. One of the things she enjoys most about writing historical romance is the in-depth research required to provide the reader with an authentic experience.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 18, 2021
“Merry Mayhem” presents six medieval tales of holiday romance where rogues and outlaws lay siege to the hearts of damsels; or perhaps they are rescued by the gift of a damsel’s love.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 22, 2020
A Yuletide Promise by Sue-Ellen Welfonder - you have got to read this book. Sue-Ellen is a wonderfully talented storyteller. If you are a lover of medieval Scotland, animals and magic her books are for you. I love Christmas stories and this one is fabulous. Once I started I couldn't stop right it right through. The way Sue-Ellen writes you can see the story before you and it unfolds. Love , magic, animal and Christmas. Doesn't get better than that. And after you read her story go ahead and and read all her book. Believe me you won't be disappointed.
November 6, 2020
4.5+ STARS - FANTASTIC BUNDLE - HOURS OF GREAT READING!
1. TO RESCUE A HIGHLAND REBEL - by Anna Markland - 4.25 STARS
Unique story about the H being in prison in the Tower of London and how the h got him out.
Interesting character's, main and secondary. Even though the H/h are apart a lot, you felt their love for each other. It also, had some sadness in it so part was emotional.
Lovemaking, within marriage, heat level barely 4 out of 5.
I wanted the h to receive information from her father or a visit. No cheating, HEA, romantic and some steam. I am not going into the blurb as I can't improve on it.
2. AN OUTLAW'S DESIRE by Catherine Kean - 5 STARS
What a great adventure this story took me on. I love when an author surprises me. First time was when our H and villain fight. I knew where the story was going and was upset. But nope, first curve ball the author through me. This happened many times which made this such a joy to read because not your normal cookie cutter story!
I’ve said it many times, I am such a sucker when H/h know each other when they were teenagers -15. They are apart for 1/4 or so of the story, but they didn’t stop loving each other. Life took them in different directions, but when they meet up again, their love was evident.
So many twists, turns and suspense that you didn’t experience any drag in the story. There is lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 2.5 out of 5.
This is not all sugar plums and such, had some heart wrenching moments to keep you engaged.
No cheating, HEA, romance, sweet epilogue and a small tad of spice. A very enjoyable read.
3. THE HIGHLANDERS PIRATE BRIDE by Cathy and DD MacRae -5 STARS
A strong spirited heroine who is perfect for the H. The h is from a poor clan and has to take to the sea to capture English ships in order for her clan to survive. She mistakenly takes a Scottish ship and that is where the adventure begins.
The H is a younger twin and happy about it. His twin is the heir, and our H wants to be on the sea and travel. He tells his brother he will not be content to have a wife who only wants to sit and enjoy needlework. He wants a wife to love the sea, adventure and travel as he does. When he meets the h, he gets exactly what he asks for.
The story has suspenseful moments and some twists. There is a part near the end that was far fetched, but I didn't care because I enjoyed the journey the story provided. Also, made me wonder what would happen next. There is also honest dialogue and funny banter.
Act of lovemaking not described. They get undressed and admire each other's bodies, no touching and scene ends.
Strong character's, no cheating, HEA and an adventurous read. Little on Christmas theme.
4. THE CAPTURE OF FINNAN MACLEOD by E. Elizabeth Watson -4.25 STARS
Little on romance because the H/h are apart for 3/4 of the story. The h started out being very insecure in how the H felt for her, but she eventually got some spunk as the story progressed.
The H is Laird of his clan and he is summoned to the King and must leave the h, two weeks before they are to marry. Of course, all isn't as it appears.
There are two nasty villains who make it awful for the h. I couldn't figure out why the H was kept alive, would have been simpler to kill him. Reason given was not strong. Then there is a fight scene near the end. *** SPOILER *** The H has been imprisoned for a month, with barely enough food and water. He was kept unconscious for almost a month. He then has a sword fight with one of the villains and holds his own. Hold could he ? *** END OF SPOILER***
There is lovemaking outside of marriage, not really described, heat level .5 out of 5.
No cheating, Lord's name used once, HEA, little on romance and suspense.
5. A YULE BRIDE by Laurel O'Donnell - 4.5 STARS
This definitely had the Spirit of Christmas. The h is very positive and loving person. The H has lead a year of drinking and whoring. Slowly the h discovers his reason he dislikes the Yule time. He hates it as much as she loves it. She challenges him that she will get him to love the Yule in 3 days. She does everything in her power to convince him.
Her confrontation with him was perfect as was the ending, even though it ended abruptly. This is a clean story, with only kisses.
No cheating, HEA, romance builds slowly and especially the H doesn't realize it.
6. A YULETIDE PROMISE by Sue-ELLEN Welfonder - 5 STARS
This isn't your normal Christmas take on traditions centuries before. I liked how the author wrote a note informing readers you need to have suspension of belief and I liked that. I also enjoyed her how she stated the bedroom door isn't as wide. How clever to let you know not explicit .
Many twists and turns in this story that I was surprised to discover. I was in the dark on most of it like the h! To say this is a unique story line is putting it mildly. I've read many stories by this author and she is another favorite of mine. She has this character with red shoes called Devorgilla of Doon who has appeared in other stories and she brings such antics that I know we are in for a treat!
Romance builds slowly and when they each realize how they are made for each other, it's magic.
No cheating, fantasy based which I loved, HEA and romance. (ljb)
1. TO RESCUE A HIGHLAND REBEL - by Anna Markland - 4.25 STARS
Unique story about the H being in prison in the Tower of London and how the h got him out.
Interesting character's, main and secondary. Even though the H/h are apart a lot, you felt their love for each other. It also, had some sadness in it so part was emotional.
Lovemaking, within marriage, heat level barely 4 out of 5.
I wanted the h to receive information from her father or a visit. No cheating, HEA, romantic and some steam. I am not going into the blurb as I can't improve on it.
2. AN OUTLAW'S DESIRE by Catherine Kean - 5 STARS
What a great adventure this story took me on. I love when an author surprises me. First time was when our H and villain fight. I knew where the story was going and was upset. But nope, first curve ball the author through me. This happened many times which made this such a joy to read because not your normal cookie cutter story!
I’ve said it many times, I am such a sucker when H/h know each other when they were teenagers -15. They are apart for 1/4 or so of the story, but they didn’t stop loving each other. Life took them in different directions, but when they meet up again, their love was evident.
So many twists, turns and suspense that you didn’t experience any drag in the story. There is lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 2.5 out of 5.
This is not all sugar plums and such, had some heart wrenching moments to keep you engaged.
No cheating, HEA, romance, sweet epilogue and a small tad of spice. A very enjoyable read.
3. THE HIGHLANDERS PIRATE BRIDE by Cathy and DD MacRae -5 STARS
A strong spirited heroine who is perfect for the H. The h is from a poor clan and has to take to the sea to capture English ships in order for her clan to survive. She mistakenly takes a Scottish ship and that is where the adventure begins.
The H is a younger twin and happy about it. His twin is the heir, and our H wants to be on the sea and travel. He tells his brother he will not be content to have a wife who only wants to sit and enjoy needlework. He wants a wife to love the sea, adventure and travel as he does. When he meets the h, he gets exactly what he asks for.
The story has suspenseful moments and some twists. There is a part near the end that was far fetched, but I didn't care because I enjoyed the journey the story provided. Also, made me wonder what would happen next. There is also honest dialogue and funny banter.
Act of lovemaking not described. They get undressed and admire each other's bodies, no touching and scene ends.
Strong character's, no cheating, HEA and an adventurous read. Little on Christmas theme.
4. THE CAPTURE OF FINNAN MACLEOD by E. Elizabeth Watson -4.25 STARS
Little on romance because the H/h are apart for 3/4 of the story. The h started out being very insecure in how the H felt for her, but she eventually got some spunk as the story progressed.
The H is Laird of his clan and he is summoned to the King and must leave the h, two weeks before they are to marry. Of course, all isn't as it appears.
There are two nasty villains who make it awful for the h. I couldn't figure out why the H was kept alive, would have been simpler to kill him. Reason given was not strong. Then there is a fight scene near the end. *** SPOILER *** The H has been imprisoned for a month, with barely enough food and water. He was kept unconscious for almost a month. He then has a sword fight with one of the villains and holds his own. Hold could he ? *** END OF SPOILER***
There is lovemaking outside of marriage, not really described, heat level .5 out of 5.
No cheating, Lord's name used once, HEA, little on romance and suspense.
5. A YULE BRIDE by Laurel O'Donnell - 4.5 STARS
This definitely had the Spirit of Christmas. The h is very positive and loving person. The H has lead a year of drinking and whoring. Slowly the h discovers his reason he dislikes the Yule time. He hates it as much as she loves it. She challenges him that she will get him to love the Yule in 3 days. She does everything in her power to convince him.
Her confrontation with him was perfect as was the ending, even though it ended abruptly. This is a clean story, with only kisses.
No cheating, HEA, romance builds slowly and especially the H doesn't realize it.
6. A YULETIDE PROMISE by Sue-ELLEN Welfonder - 5 STARS
This isn't your normal Christmas take on traditions centuries before. I liked how the author wrote a note informing readers you need to have suspension of belief and I liked that. I also enjoyed her how she stated the bedroom door isn't as wide. How clever to let you know not explicit .
Many twists and turns in this story that I was surprised to discover. I was in the dark on most of it like the h! To say this is a unique story line is putting it mildly. I've read many stories by this author and she is another favorite of mine. She has this character with red shoes called Devorgilla of Doon who has appeared in other stories and she brings such antics that I know we are in for a treat!
Romance builds slowly and when they each realize how they are made for each other, it's magic.
No cheating, fantasy based which I loved, HEA and romance. (ljb)
September 26, 2020
The Highlander's Pirate Bride
Hardy Heroine's #
Cathy MacRae
DD MacRae
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rona MacNeill is also known as the pirate The Black Mac Neill and she steals English ships to feed her clan, but this time the ship she has stolen is not an English ship at all. Once they are underway she finds out that it is a Scottish ship. Her father has no trouble accepting the goods from abord the ship however he tells her that if this comes back on them he's laying it at her door. Her father also tells her that the money from the sale of the ship will go towards her dowry and marriage is not what Rona wants at all.
Pedr MacLean is the younger son (by three minutes) of Baron MacLean and he's happy that way. As the younger son he isn't his fathers immediate heir so he fills his days running the family business and sailing from port to port. He first love is for the sea so when his father informs him and his brother that it's time to marry he is not happy at all, but then one of their ships is stolen and he has to get to the bottom of it and try to get his ship back. His findings bring him to Clan MacNeill's door and he inadvertently stumbles upon The Black MacNeill herself.
Rona's Father says that if Pedr marries his daughter he will tell him information on the whereabouts of his ship.
Will Pedr accept the offer of marriage for information and if so will Rona accept Pedr as her husband or would she rather take her chances with the hangmans noose?
Cathy and DD MacRae write a captivating tale that is chalked full of adventure with a female pirate who can make most men shudder. I adored this pirate story. Pedr and Rona were both very heroic characters who didn't back down from anything. The only thing that could scare them both was the thought of marriage until they met eachother. They were both well matched and I'm so happy that they got their happy ever after and get to sail the high seas together. All in all this is another captivating story that will leave you with a big smile and a happy feeling when you finish.
Hardy Heroine's #
Cathy MacRae
DD MacRae
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rona MacNeill is also known as the pirate The Black Mac Neill and she steals English ships to feed her clan, but this time the ship she has stolen is not an English ship at all. Once they are underway she finds out that it is a Scottish ship. Her father has no trouble accepting the goods from abord the ship however he tells her that if this comes back on them he's laying it at her door. Her father also tells her that the money from the sale of the ship will go towards her dowry and marriage is not what Rona wants at all.
Pedr MacLean is the younger son (by three minutes) of Baron MacLean and he's happy that way. As the younger son he isn't his fathers immediate heir so he fills his days running the family business and sailing from port to port. He first love is for the sea so when his father informs him and his brother that it's time to marry he is not happy at all, but then one of their ships is stolen and he has to get to the bottom of it and try to get his ship back. His findings bring him to Clan MacNeill's door and he inadvertently stumbles upon The Black MacNeill herself.
Rona's Father says that if Pedr marries his daughter he will tell him information on the whereabouts of his ship.
Will Pedr accept the offer of marriage for information and if so will Rona accept Pedr as her husband or would she rather take her chances with the hangmans noose?
Cathy and DD MacRae write a captivating tale that is chalked full of adventure with a female pirate who can make most men shudder. I adored this pirate story. Pedr and Rona were both very heroic characters who didn't back down from anything. The only thing that could scare them both was the thought of marriage until they met eachother. They were both well matched and I'm so happy that they got their happy ever after and get to sail the high seas together. All in all this is another captivating story that will leave you with a big smile and a happy feeling when you finish.
October 3, 2020
The novella by E. Elizabeth Watson, The Capture of Finnan MacLeod, is marvelous! The plot is intriguing and the characters are beautifully described. At first I was not sure I liked the heroine but that opinion quickly changed as I became involved with her in her struggle -- to the point of being unable to put it down! This is definitely a "must read". E. Elizabeth Watson is an engaging story teller and, once again, has produced a remarkable work. This novella is included in the Merry Mayhem collection and I can not wait to read the complete set.
November 3, 2020
I absolutely 💜L💜O💜V💜 E.Elizabeth Watson’s books, And The Capture of Finnan MacLeod has all the reasons why. From the first chapter the action jumps out at you and keeps building. The strength of her heroine in this story is just amazing. The loss, the joy, the sadness and loss again, it all gives her the strength she needs to pull off her plan. This is the perfect story to curl up with next to a roaring fire and forget the world.
October 30, 2020
Watson, again, had me up way past bedtime finishing this adventurous romance with a strong heroine! I can’t wait to read the rest of the collection.
November 21, 2020
Excellent
This is a must read of so many stories. Each one had something very special. I truly loved all of them
This is a must read of so many stories. Each one had something very special. I truly loved all of them
June 2, 2021
I loved Anna Maryland’s story, it shows the lengths someone will go to rescue their beloved. It’s a story of despair and hope, pain and joy and a miracle at the holidays. As always, the characters are vibrant and real and their every feeling is brought to life on the pages. I would love to read more about these characters and I hope this is the beginning of a new series by this writer.
I only read that one story, but I am looking forward to reading all of the others as I recognize and have read books by the other authors and they are all talented also.
I only read that one story, but I am looking forward to reading all of the others as I recognize and have read books by the other authors and they are all talented also.
October 25, 2020
Review for A Yuletide Promise by Sue-Ellen Welfonder.
Every time I sit down with a story from Sue-Ellen, I feel like I've pulled up a chair by a cozy fire to listen to a bard relate a tale from olde. I'm always pulled into the story, standing there watching as the characters go about their lives.
With this story I found myself quickly thinking "man oh man at these burly Highland warriors!"
I enjoyed the way she weaved a story around a legend. I do believe in the ways of olde and believe her characters speak to her from times past. This was a great read that brought warmth to my heart and I especially loved meeting up with Grim, my favorite from her books. That man...well, you can't tell me he never truly existed somewhere in time.
Sue-Ellen Welfonder is an author who knows her stuff and can draw you in with her story telling. Not to be missed! Any of her stories are well worth the read and will stick in your heart forever.
Every time I sit down with a story from Sue-Ellen, I feel like I've pulled up a chair by a cozy fire to listen to a bard relate a tale from olde. I'm always pulled into the story, standing there watching as the characters go about their lives.
With this story I found myself quickly thinking "man oh man at these burly Highland warriors!"
I enjoyed the way she weaved a story around a legend. I do believe in the ways of olde and believe her characters speak to her from times past. This was a great read that brought warmth to my heart and I especially loved meeting up with Grim, my favorite from her books. That man...well, you can't tell me he never truly existed somewhere in time.
Sue-Ellen Welfonder is an author who knows her stuff and can draw you in with her story telling. Not to be missed! Any of her stories are well worth the read and will stick in your heart forever.
December 16, 2020
To Rescue a Highland Rebel - an adventure story with very little romance - 2 stars
An Outlaws Desire - the couple fell in love years before; this story is an adventure story to get them back together, Interesting, but not a romance - 2 stars
The Highlander's Pirate Bride - She's a pirate who steals the wrong ship. Decent story and romance. 4 stars
The Capture of Finnan MacLeod - DNF 0 stars
A Yule Bride - DNF 0 stars
An Outlaws Desire - the couple fell in love years before; this story is an adventure story to get them back together, Interesting, but not a romance - 2 stars
The Highlander's Pirate Bride - She's a pirate who steals the wrong ship. Decent story and romance. 4 stars
The Capture of Finnan MacLeod - DNF 0 stars
A Yule Bride - DNF 0 stars
May 29, 2021
To Rescue a Highland Rebel - Anna Markland
This story convinced me that this couple is indeed destined and they are very well matched. Kenzie is just as much of a fighter as Teague. With their combined grit and determination in such a precarious situation they never give up even when their suspenseful adventure is extremely risky, not to mention life changing.
This story convinced me that this couple is indeed destined and they are very well matched. Kenzie is just as much of a fighter as Teague. With their combined grit and determination in such a precarious situation they never give up even when their suspenseful adventure is extremely risky, not to mention life changing.
January 3, 2021
Yule folklore
Yule stories and others that tell of Christmas myths and traditions! These stories confirm this is a wonderful time of year to find love and hope!
Yule stories and others that tell of Christmas myths and traditions! These stories confirm this is a wonderful time of year to find love and hope!
January 31, 2021
A great collection!
This collection of Highlander romance stories is a great read. So many wonderful authors. Do yourself a favor and cozy up with this book!
This collection of Highlander romance stories is a great read. So many wonderful authors. Do yourself a favor and cozy up with this book!
November 2, 2020
Great stories.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews