His Highland Surprise

The Clan Sinclair #5

by Celeste Barclay

A confirmed bachelor with no intentions of settling down...Tavish Sinclair cannot imagine life with only one woman, not when so many catch his eye.  As the third son of Laird Liam Sinclair, he has two older brothers and their children ahead of him for the lairdship.  Tavish is stunned when his father informs him the king has arranged his marriage to a woman from the most notorious clan in Scotland, and one he has never met.  Drawn as much to her intelligence as her looks, Tavish is unprepared for his spunky bride-to-be when she goes toe to toe and head to head with him at every turn.  Can he protect Ceit from herself as much as the dangers that lurk at court?



A spirited lady-in-waiting with no plans to change...Ceit Comyn is the niece of one John Comyn and the cousin of the other, making her a member of the most despised clan in the country.  Sent to the royal court as a peace offering to mend torched bridges, Ceit is forced in the king's services just as her uncle would control her for the same purposes.  She has no interest in marrying a rogue, but when the kind-hearted and honorable warrior champions her, she may discover he's more saint than sinner. 





Meet the members of Clan Sinclair in this fifth installment of the five book Highland romance series.  The Clan Sinclair features Mairghread and her four brothers, Callum, Alexander, Tavish, and Magnus.  Each member of the Scottish clan faces challenges as they meet their fated match, but all of the Sinclairs find their HEA.  Each novel in the series is a standalone, but they are best read together.

Genres: Historical Romance, Medieval, Scotland

229 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 7, 2019

About the author

Celeste Barclay, a nom de plume, lives near the Southern California coast with her husband and sons. Growing up in the Midwest, Celeste enjoyed spending as much time in and on the water as she could. Now she lives near the beach. She's an avid swimmer, a hopeful future surfer, and a former rower. Before becoming a full-time author, Celeste was a Social Studies and English teacher. She holds degrees in International Affairs (BA), Secondary Social Science (MAT), and Political Management (MPS). She channels that knowledge into creating rich historical romances that bring the steam.

Reviews

[Mary Phelps · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half of this book was pretty good. The second half just dragged and dragged. They had sex against the cave wall, against a tree, against a wall. They had sex in a river, in a tub, on the hard ground, in the soft grass. You name it and they screwed on it. There are only so many ways to say “ put your rod in my sheath “ or “I’m going to put my rod in your sheath” .

[Brenda Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Celeste Barclay and I will be reading a lot more of her books. She is a wonderful author. This story is about Tavish Sinclair and Ceit Comyn. These two are perfectly matched. I literally could not put it down from the first page on. Tavish is told br his father, Laird Sinclair, he is to travel to court to check on his brother. And while he is there he is to meet the woman the King has decided he is to marry, Lady Cathryn Cronyn.. When these two meet, the fireworks begin. They will discover a dangerous path on their road towards love. Can they learn to trust in themselves and each other? This was a fast paced adventure from start to finish. There is also lots of passion. You will fall in love with Tavish. This is one of the best I’ve read in a while and highly recommend this book to anyone who loves adventure in their Highland romance. I was gifted this book and am voluntarily reviewing.

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

[Cindy C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping, Suspenseful and so much more! Tavishfinds himself at court to see what has become of his younger brother, Tristan, but also to meet his bride-to-be! The one brother who as sworn to never marry....well no one will make him marry if he doesn't want to. But one look and Tavish is rethinking his view about marriage. One look at the tall braw Highland and Ceit is hooked but not everything goes smoothly at court and Ceit and Tavish find themselves caught in a web of danger, jealousy, deceit and power play in His Highland Surprise. Celeste Barclay has written a fantastic story romance that brims with tension-building twists and turns, remarkable emotions, characters that come off the pages and pull you into their emotional ride that keeps you involved until the very end, sizzling passion, witty banter, with an action packed plot, trials and tribulations and as the tensions builds and court intrigue escalate with uncertainties abound that will keep you guessing until the end in this outstanding story!

[Sara K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so glad I stumbled across Celeste Barclay's books! I've binged her Clan Sinclair series in the last month! All the books have been right up my alley, plenty of steaminess with solid story lines. I often find that I end up having to compromise one for the other with most books.

Here we have the story of Tavish, the most resistant of the Sinclair siblings to the idea of true love. Enter in our heroine, Ceit and all bets are off for Tavish. He falls fast and hard for his feisty highland lass!

I'm sad there are no other Sinclair siblings as it means the end of this wonderful series. I would love to see a spin off series, maybe with some Sinclair cousins? I know I for one would love to see a book for Lady Elizabeth and Lord Edward, the sparks were flying here!

I'm for sure excited and looking forward to more from this author!

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

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tavish🐺🔪, Man In A Kilt

I liked the story behind this book a lot, which is about the Sinclair clan of the Laird, Liam, and his adult children, four brothers and a sister.
However, after a while the thick Scottish burr the characters spoke throughout the book started to get to me, and became slightly annoying. I listened to the book with my kindle and sometimes it was tuff to figure out what was being said. If you like books written in the vernacular, this is definitely one.
This is an adult romance with the brother Tavish🐺🔪 going to the King's👑court to find Ceit Comyn💃💋, a woman from another clan. His father had decreed she is the one he will marry! So it's to be an arranged marriage.

Tall, brawny, handsome men🐺🍆🌋🔪 with swords in kilts ! YEHAW! 🐎🐎🐎🐎🐎Ride em Bareback, Cowgirl!

ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got the book with KU.

[Kat Tolle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What do you get when you have a brawny and a hot Scotsmen who doesn’t want to marry? A really great book!!! His Highland Surprise by Celeste Barclay is book 5 in The Clan Sinclair series. I am new to Celeste’s book and am so happy to have found another author who I can really enjoy reading. She has a true talent for telling a story and has such wonderful characters. This highland medieval book take you on such an adventure that you are never quite sure what is going to happen next. Though in a series it can be read as a standalone. This book has evil, greed, treason, kindness, new friends, a loving family, a cruel uncle, spies, jealousy, attacks, being kidnap, being hunted, lots of injuries and of course love. I recommend this book and I can’t wait to read more of Celeste’s books.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Jenniekenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so glad I found Celeste Barclay! I love being swept away when I read her books. I LOVE LOVE LOVE the way she writes with them using the "burrs" and Irish words. (I've got a strong Irish ancestry so I love these books). I love the family relationship and I love their relationship to the King and Queen. I don't want to ruin anything by giving more details but I loved the drama in this story and that Ceit worked so hard to make him better. I love why she calls him Brodie! BRING ME MORE!

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

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I found Celeste via a Facebook post, and boy am I glad I did. She writes in one of my favorite genres, and oh yeah, she writes amazingly in this genre! I cannot wait to explore more of her books. Tavish and Ceit will definitely keep your interest! Loved them, and their story!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tavish and Cait - what a couple! I really enjoyed this book. The characters are well written and could definitely be my friends. It was full of action, intrigue and fun. This is the final book in the series, and can be read as a standalone. I have purchased the other books in this series and completely enjoyed them. Recommended read.

[Laila Viking · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well written story with nice storyline and plot. I like the characters and how the are defined and develops through the story. They are both not keen on marrying but fate has its ways to change that.
An engaging and captivating story that is recommendable to others that like to read highland stories.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I read 2 -3 books per week and found the story line and fluency in writing lead to a fantastic read.

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

[Kari Maass · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story from beginning to end. Tavish is a wonderful hero and Cait is a brave strong heroine. The story is interesting and I enjoyed watching it unravel.

I received a free copy of this book for an honest review

[Evelyn Derenzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story held my attention from the first page through to the end. It covers all of the feelings one has when experiencing falling in love. The fact that it is set in the highlands is a plus for adventure.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meeting his match

Tavish middle name Brodie has been ordered to wed by the King! He is also going to court to see about his brother Magnus who has been gone way too long! Catherine aka Ceit has been a spy for the King, her uncle and used to bring back messages to protect her mother and younger siblings! She has even been ordered to seduce the King and his brother for secrets if necessary! This story intertwined with Magnus and Diedre happy ending! Ceit is stubborn and used to taking care of herself she doesn't hesitate to kill a man for self protection! Tavish aka Tav falls fast and furious for Ceit but his past with other women are a constant factor as their are many women he's bedded at court! Just when you think they are free to love another another challenge arises! Total mayhem ensues as there are mercenaries pursuing them and it is horrific the amount of times the King Tavish godfather risked Ceits life! Can these two have a HEA!?? When both their pasts has such a grip on them?

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A right proper story smothered by sex and poor word skills

A shame. So so many errors a proofreader could have corrected. Reversing words, omitting words, adding words, using wrong homonyms.
As with the previous books in this series, it is a good story with good characters. The sex scenes, while good, and often necessary, eventually became intrusive. I found myself skipping over them in order to find out what was happening. There were also some loose threads that should have been stitched up.
The earlier books were better.

[Jas · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I’ve really enjoyed this series and can’t wait to read the prequel and spin off series, Tavish and Ceit might be my least favorite couple so far. There were times where the story seemed to drag a bit or get a little repetitive, and somehow at the same time none of the problems felt like they were ever really the focus. My biggest pet peeve was the choice of nickname. That Ceit suddenly started referring to Tavish by a completely different name was so annoying, I don’t know why that was the choice but it drove me insane.

[Elaine Gumbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fast moving and intense story that I read it in two day

Just a fantastic and wild ride. So many times I cried outloud. Just unbelievable suspense. I definitely reconditioned this story. Sexy as hell and so well written.

[Sherrylee A. Ames · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love can be forever

This book shows that love can be forever and people can accept each other’s differences. Often people lose the love they could have by trying to change each other. This books lesson is accept the differences and a couple can grow in many ways.

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good, but long

Love the Sinclair's. I enjoyed this book, but Some of the sex scenes were a little longer than needed and repeated often. Well-written, but still drawn out.

Could have just been my mood.

[Gerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

His Highland Surprise

Really enjoyed reading this book and all those before it. Highly recommend reading and look forward to reading my. Such a pleasure reading about men that appreciate the woman in their lives.

[Donna Nalbandian Woerner Homschek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tavish found out what they said was true, the bigger they are the harder they fall. Especially when he swore to never marry. Cathryn had trust issues with men, being used and taken advantage of. The story takes you through more grief and danger for these two then any of the others. Great read.

[Evelyn Derenzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable! Filled with delightful dialogue and romance. This author is recommended and I look forward to future novels.

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

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

[Debra Loewen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

I absolutely love this series. I can not say enough. I have enjoyed each of the four and looking forward to reading the last

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!
Wow! What a way to end the series. I will miss the Sinclairs so much. Will definitely read daddy Liam and mommy Kyla's story 🥺🥺🥺❤❤❤

[Angela · Rating 3 out of 5]

Epages 282

[Marika · Rating 1 out of 5]

⛔️(in notes)

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another wonderful book by Celeste Barclay. I love this series. The first quarter of the book retold part of Magnus' story that was in the previous book His Highland Pledge and it weaved in the immediate attraction between the male lead character, Tavish Sinclair, and the female lead character Cathryn/Ceit Comyn. Laird Liam Sinclair advises his middle son, Tavish, that the King has arranged his betrothal and he is being sent to court for two reasons. One is to meet his betrothed, Cathryn Comyn and two is to check up on his brother Magnus. The Laird fears there is trouble and will send with Tavish with extra money for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise. When Tavish arrives at court he takes notice of one of the Queen's Lady in waiting. Later he finds out that she is his betrothed. Now Tavish never wanted marriage and now that he is to be married, he fears that the women he has bedded that are at court may be a problem for Ceit. Ceit's clan has been disgraced by the former Laird, her uncle John Comyn. Her father is now Laird. He is a good Laird and is trying to make peace with the surrounding clans and also keep his clan together. Ceit is deliberately sent to court to spy for him. But there is another problem for Ceit. Her uncle John now in hiding has threatened to kill her family if she does not spy for him. When Ceit arrives at court, the King has ordered Ceit to spy for him by informing him of John's actions. Ceit finds herself stressed, constantly looking over her shoulder and on the defensive. There is danger around every corner. She does not know who to trust. There are spies all over the court. She must be very careful. Then the story goes into Tavish and Ceit's relationship. When they first spoke to each other they realized their mutual attraction. Ceit helps Tavish rescue his brother Magnus. Ceit is very spirited and has a wicked tongue. She does not fear to speak her mind. She treats everyone as if they could be a spy. So, she is always on the alert. Ceit is also very resourceful as she is knowledgeable in the healing arts. Every time she and Tavish talk they clash. Their bickering and banter is entertaining to read. They learn that trusting each other is not easy. Ceit only has had herself to rely on and it irritates her that Tavish wants to protect her from any harm. They go back and forth till they learn from each other that they can work together. Their adventure begins and is very exciting. I do recommend this book and look forward to the next episode. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CAB1217 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Tavish and Cathryn's story very much. It is full of action and intrigue that will keep you entertained for hours.I

Tavish is the last of Laird Sinclair's children to be married, so he and the King agreed to a marriage with one of the Queens Lady's in waiting. However Tavish wants to remain a bachelor, but when he see's Cathryn he starts to change his mind. He is not only at court to get his bride to be he is also trying g to find his brother.
Cathryn approaches Tavish with information regarding his brother and will take him to him.

Cathryn is from the hated Comyn's and not to be trusted, but no one at court knows she is a spy for the King and her hated Uncle who is forcing her to spy for him. Cathryn and Tavish work together to free not only his brother but Magnus' wife from the clutches of evil. While working g together the sparks fly between the two and they work together to save each other from harm.

This was a very entertaining read I will definitely going back to read the other books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed Tavish and Cathryn's story very much. It is full of action and intrigue that will keep you entertained for hours.I

Tavish is the last of Laird Sinclair's children to be married, so he and the King agreed to a marriage with one of the Queens Lady's in waiting. However Tavish wants to remain a bachelor, but when he see's Cathryn he starts to change his mind. He is not only at court to get his bride to be he is also trying g to find his brother.
Cathryn approaches Tavish with information regarding his brother and will take him to him.

Cathryn is from the hated Comyn's and not to be trusted, but no one at court knows she is a spy for the King and her hated Uncle who is forcing her to spy for him. Cathryn and Tavish work together to free not only his brother but Magnus' wife from the clutches of evil. While working g together the sparks fly between the two and they work together to save each other from harm.

This was a very entertaining read I will definitely going back to read the other books in this series.

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

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just Read It!

I have read all the previous books in the series. This one may just be my favorite. This may also serve as a standalone book but may I just say that I am glad I read the previous books in the series.

Ceit is a heroine that is truly admirable. She has strength of character, maturity and wisdom. She is also a lady spy. Tavish is the brave and strong hero who is also on his way to becoming a reformed rake on his way to meet his future wife, Ceit. I like how different the plot is in this story. I can name two previous books in this series that has the heroine almost raped but gets rescued in the nick of time. In this book, His Highland Surprise, Ceit is like the woman counterpart of James Bond and Ethan Hunt minus the promiscuity. Ceit is a spy who has managed to retain her honor/convictions as well as her innocence/virtue despite being in court. There were more than one instance where she was able to defend herself successfully without relying on a savior. I also like the part where she rescued Tavish (spoiler, sorry, but it is so good to read a heroine saving the hero). I like how consistent the story is. There were no side stories to distract me from appreciating the main story. There was enough action and adventure that kept me glued to this book. And the epilogue and the happy ending just tugs at the heart.

Read the whole series. You will enjoy it.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tavish Sinclair has no intention of marrying, he's got older brothers so he can enjoy life, then the King sends for him as he wants Tavish to marry also his brother Magnus may be in trouble so he travels to Stirling Castle. On arriving a lady in waiting catches his eye & Ceit Comyn leads him to Magnus who is in the dungeons. They rescue Magnus then set out to find Deirdre, Magnus’ wife who has been kidnapped. So starts a train of events that lead Tavish & Ceit to the border & back to Court, there are spies, mercenaries, kidnapping, betrayals & of course romance which all add to the enjoyment of this fast paced book.
A well written book that flows very well, it drew me in from the start & the pace gradually increased during the book until I was reading furiously & couldn’t put it down. The characters are very well fleshed & even though there is a hard, tough side to them they are also very likeable & have a gentle side. I loved Tavish & Ceit two strong highlanders, he’s large, muscular & gorgeous, she’s fiercely independent & a strong woman. They are both loyal & will lay down their lives for the ones they love. This is the finale of the series & it could easily be read on its own, however as always with series I just have to read all of the books! An enthralling read that I thoroughly enjoyed
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read