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The Highland Ladies #9

An Angel at the Highland Court

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A laird who fears making a mistake...

Ronan Mackinnon bears the weight of leading his clan and spares no time for his own pursuits. Summoned to court by King Robert the Bruce, Ronan diligently considers each of his words and actions to represent his clan with honor. But when King Robert demands Ronan chooses a bride, he’s forced to confront his past choices. The pleasures of the flesh play no part in his life--until Abigail MacLeod enters it. Can this reserved laird prove to Abigail what he lacks in experience he makes up for in passion?

A lady who's made one mistake after another...

Lady Abigail MacLeod’s life is filled with poor choices. She misjudged her brother Kieran’s wallflower bride Maude when she arrived on the Isle of Lewis. She misjudged the man she entered a handfast with, and it ended in disgrace. Now a lady-in-waiting at King Robert the Bruce’s royal court, Abigail finds the opportunity to redeem her past wrong deeds. But when a handsome laird arrives at court, Abigail fears her old habits haven’t died. Could a rushed judgement cost her a lifetime in a Highlander's arms?

Can two nobles from rival clans find love?

The MacLeods of Lewis are on good terms with the MacKinnons of Skye. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the MacLeods of Skye and the MacKinnons. When an old feud reignites, Abigail and Ronan are caught in the middle. Fighting against time and blizzards, can they protect their burgeoning love and their lives? Will it take stealing the MacLeods of Skye’s famed Fairy Flag?

Welcome to Robert the Bruce’s Highland Court, where the ladies in waiting are a mixture of fire and ice. "The Highland Ladies," the STEAMY spin off series from Celeste Barclay’s "The Clan Sinclair" series, returns to the Medieval royal court for love and intrigue.

The first third of this novel appeared as a novella in the Christmas anthology, Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms . Since then, more than 200 pages of new content has been added to make this a full-length novel.

367 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 5, 2020

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108 people want to read

About the author

Celeste Barclay

72 books557 followers
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.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,564 reviews89 followers
February 10, 2021
Groomed by his father to take up his mantle of responsibility and to safeguard his future marriage, Ronan Mackinnon has taken his duties to his clan seriously and avoided relationships with the women he has encountered, making him an anomaly in his time. Unlike Ronan, Lady Abigail has made more mistakes than most women of her tender age, mostly because her mother's grooming did not include compassion, kindness, or even the basic duties required of a wife. Thinking that marriage is her answer, she enters into a handfasting with a neighbouring laird, only to be dumped on her family's doorstep when he had no further use for her. Sent to Court, Abigail turns her life around and becomes a circumspect young lady, not given to gossip, silliness, or idle pursuits. Told that he has to choose a wife in order to bring some sense of order to Skye, the only woman who attracts Ronan's eye is Abigail. A tender courtship ensues but they quickly escalate to lovers as Ronan finds in Abigail a woman who needs him as much as he needs her. It would seem that marriage would be the culmination of their story, but it is the start of a fast-paced and dramatic adventure, as they come under attack by power-hungry neighbours. Abigail proves herself even more resourceful than she herself realised, bringing about the admiration of Ronan's clan members who declare she could lead an army. I love the main characters in this romance, Ronan with his quiet strength and Abigail as she faces up to her mistakes and learns to adapt to her new responsibilities. The battle scenes in this novel are pretty graphic, making one realise that if anything, battles in Medieval times were every bit as violent and bloody as they are today. The plot is well written and kept my interest throughout, making it difficult to put my kindle down. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through BookSprout and this is my honest and voluntary review.
2,447 reviews27 followers
February 15, 2021
This story started off quite slowly but then in the rest of the book, there was plenty of action, both inside the bedroom and outside with the clans. Ronan was certainly the strong, silent type but could be relied on to make good outcomes for his clan. He observed all going on and was his own man. Abigail has changed from her earlier days and had become a more thoughtful person. She can be relied upon to make the correct decisions in a crisis. I did enjoy the deep feelings all the couples had for each other. This was an entertaining read, the number of clans mentioned could be a little confusing if this is the first book read in the series. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
732 reviews3 followers
February 6, 2021
Where to begin. I will admit the first third will give you the most trouble reading but it is necessary. It sets the stage to this spell-binding nook. The adventure you go on it captivating, warm, and so engrossing. The rest of the book will have you on the edge of your seat. The characters are thought provoking. The story is realistic in word building. The plot is not shown in this detail much which is why it is so long, BUT we'll worth the read.
So with that being g said let us meet the characters......
Robert the Bruce, Queen Elizabeth de Burgh’s, Emelie and Blythe Dunbar lady's-in-waiting are minor but important ones. These are Court characters.
Kieran and Maude, Abigail 's brother and sister-in-law are important for the teaching and maturing of Abigail. It will mention her mother Adeline and sister Madeline who Abby tried to copy in attitude but ultimately didn't. Her hand fast to a disreputable Laird Lathan Chisolm, a disaster. These are also important to note only as the shape Abigail.

The main characters. Abigail MacLeod is wanting to severe in being a better person after all the trouble she caused her brother and sister-in-law, her bad handwriting and wanting a man to lover her for herself. She is trying to not judge people but finding that hard so she appears shy and reticent at court. While there she helps a knight who has gotten turned around a few time.
Which brings us to Laird Ronnan MacKinnon, a a quiet, observant, strong man who first like being around unknown people for fear he will say it do something that will make his clan appear weak or vulnerable. He is summoned to court to answer for the fighting and strife between his clan and the other branch of the MacLeod clan. He wants peace and harmony to be for all. At home he is gorgeous and friendly with a read smile, words of encouragement, and a helping hand for all in his clan.

Now for the villains. Laird Cormag, his brothers Gordan and Donovan, his wife Ceciely (A vain, greedy, spiteful, pretentious woman). Format wants to be Lord of the Isles, but lacks the compassion, and humility needed. Jordan is just reprehensible and mean, Donovan is going and follows the others lead.

The twists that are involved would give the story away but I will say this....once you start resigning the long set-up of the story is SO well worth it. The preface will give a brief Leonard history to explain the different clans and how they are related. The plot is drsmatic, exciting, and flourishes with great writing and detailed scenes. I would love to say more but will tell you there is a reckoning and happily ever after.

Family is everything in this book and it shows how differences can and do overcome any obsticle.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Books2lovenow.
414 reviews23 followers
February 22, 2021
Ronan and Abgail's was first seen in anthology but there's about three times the story in this version. If you skip reading the novel length story you'll miss out. Ronan and Abgail's story is a bit different than a typical historical. For one, Ronan is a virgin and Abgail is not. There is a lot of intrigue but at it's heart the story is about trust, love, and wanting to be your best self. This is an absolutely great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lisa C.
1,100 reviews22 followers
February 12, 2021
Wow, this is an amazing read! Loved the characters (especially Laird Ronan Mackinnon and Lady Abigail MacLeod), the adventures, the history, the story and best of all-the love/romance. This book has it all. Can't recommend enough.
Profile Image for Jas.
699 reviews14 followers
September 12, 2023
I really liked Ronan and Abigail. The story was enjoyable and it was nice to read a story where the majority of the conflict was something the MCs overcome together rather than conflict between them. This also might have been one of the sweetest epilogues in the series so far.
Profile Image for JenReviews4U.
475 reviews
February 16, 2021
Impression- this wasn’t a novel that left me sighing or feeling all warm and fuzzy, it was a lot of text to get through just to make a point. There is a well written storyline in there, you just have to weed it out.
From the start, this story has several historical inaccuracies, so much so that I found myself completely distracted by them I couldn’t fully believe or get into this story line.
For example: the author writes that this story takes place during the reign of Robert the Bruce which was (1306-1329), she says John MacDonald of Islay, Lord of the Isles was present which would have been impossible since he was Lord of the Isles from 1336–1386. The author says the clan of Donald had Armadale castle but Armadale wasn’t even built as a castle until 1815.
The entirety of the story revolves around never-ending clan feuds and it’s extremely hard to keep them all straight here. Most of the story I found very tedious and actually boring, there seemed to be too much other stuff rather the focus being on Ronan and Abigail. The entire theme of Ronan being inexperienced is fine but it became too much a focal point. The dialogue, especially at first, between Ronan and Abigail is just awkward. Ronan’s lack of self esteem is just plain maddening for such a character as he is built to be. Abigail started off being bratty and spoiled and then after being captured turned into a bad-ass, very smart heroine, then went back to spoiled. And Ronan does turn into the powerful, strong laird we wished for. But the way both characters just did a 180 in personalities was as if I was reading a completely different novel.
Not all is lost though, the story actually gets good half way through the book. When Ronan and Abby are taken prisoner, is one of the better sections of the book and the writing seemed to pick up too. It gets better from there and actually grows into a story worth reading. Although the epilogue was a bit confusing with so many new names.
Overall I’d tell a reader to jump past the first few chapters or suffer through them knowing that the story line will improve and that the author actually does a good job of story telling later on in the novel.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
557 reviews5 followers
February 23, 2021
I’ve been a fan of Celeste Barkley since the very first book I read. Her stories never fail to enthrall me as she transports me to another time and place. I was immediately immersed into this wonderful story that revolves around the Court of Robert The Bruce and two perhaps unlikely people who make the perfect couple, teammates, confidants and lovers.

I appreciate how the author set up the background of the different clans and the historical setting used for the story. It clarifies so much later on. While she did adjust some timelines for the sake of the story your sure to enjoy your the read! I have always appreciated the rich historical and geographical detail the author gives in her books.

Lady Abigail MacLeod, our heroine is the sister of Kieran and sister-in-law of Maude from book three. She was hand-fasted to Laird Lathan Chisolm who was abusive to her. After being humiliated and her failed handfasting Abigail is sent to King Robert the Bruce's Scottish Court to serve as lady-in-waiting to the queen Having behaved terribly in respect to her brother and sister-in-law and the hand-fasting disaster she is a changed young woman. A young woman who wants to be a better person.

Laird Ronan MacKinnon, a good man and Laird, a strong, intelligent, and observant man is summoned to the court of Robert The Bruce because of the fighting between his clan and the other branch of the MacLeod clan. He is noble and honorable, a kind and helpful Laird and wants peace between the clans. At court Ronan is tasked with finding a wife and a solution to the clan fighting. Meeting Abigail by accident he decides she’s the one however, he is not very experienced in romance. It seems his father in his instruction regarding responsibilities had encouraged Ronan to avoid entanglement and meaningless dalliances and relationships with women. This by no means indicates that Ronan is not manly, quite the contrary.

The author creates amazing characters who even with their flaws are so multi dimensional and complex. Her characters rise to the occasion beautifully as both Ronan and Abigail do in this story. Her attention to detail and her rich imagery enhances her stories splendidly. Her sense of humor and witty dialogue are always on point. Her plots are always well-developed, exciting and dramatic.

I loved this fast paced, action packed edge of your seat story that just sizzles with steamy chemistry, romance and love. With a dastardly evil villains Ronan and Abigail have their work cut out for them. It was so satisfying to see how these to work together and discovered that they were not only strong in their own right but stronger together. It was exciting to see their growth within themselves and watching them grow together in respect for one another. But it was the love that was shared between them that will leave you breathless.

Thank you so much Ms Barclay for such an excellent story of extraordinary love and adventure.
Profile Image for Nanna.
1,225 reviews4 followers
February 8, 2021
If you have read any of the other books in this series then you know their are a lot of clans and members. This one has a lot of history for the first part of the book. You really need to pay attention as it will be very important during the story. Its like a history lesson but the book will not make sense if you skip over it. This book could be read as a standalone but their is so much past history and characters from other books am not sure it would be as enjoyable.
Abigail Macleod has been in a couple of the prior books. She was not a very nice person in those books
her character has grown with the number of mistakes she has made. Her treatment of her sister-in-law being the worst. Her hand fasting with a man quickly because he was handsome almost caused her death and taught her not to judge people unfairly or so she thought. She is back at Robert the Bruce court as one of the Queens Ladies in waiting. She is shunned by many as most know of the hand-fasting.
Laird Ronan Mackinnon has been called to court by King Bruce where he is told to find a wife.
Ronan is a quiet man, not speaking till he weighs his words so he does nothing to hurt his clan's honor. This causes people to think he is shy or stupid neither is true.
He first meets Abigail when he gets lost at court and she finds him in the lady's hallway. He has little to say and she once again thinks he is something he is not , letting her thoughts lead her before even knowing who he is.
After the second time she gives him directions, she happens to see in training with his man and sees a very different person.
These two both have many secrets and problems to overcome. Both have been wronged by others.
Ronan by his own father telling a young man thing that changed his life and way he thinks. Not for the best in my opinion.
The twist in what Abigail knows and teaches him was great. It was refreshing and fun to see the tables turned on the man instead of the women.
There is so much going on in this book that must be read in order or the story will be ruined.
They have Blizzards to fight thru, other clans after them with fighting and many twists and turns.
As they learn about each other and work together it is a love story for the ages. Hot and steamy so
if that is not your style this is not the book for you.
The story has a lot of past characters that was fun to revisit. You will catch up with Kieran and Maude, Fingal and Madeline and Lachlan and Arabella .
There are others characters that make this story great too.
I received and ARC from the author and want to thank her.
This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily giving it. I hope you give it a read, you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Shannon Patterson.
927 reviews9 followers
February 9, 2021
I continue to marvel at how interconnected all the books in this series are. I imagine Celeste Barclay with spreadsheets and boards with strings and graphs to keep all the alliances, hostilities and courtly intrigues straight. I admit sometimes I find it hard to keep up. The thought that must go into these books is amazing and there is so much character detail and growth that is consistent throughout the series. I live how people we've once hated gain more maturity and can even become heroes in their own right earning their redemption and respect.

This is one such story. Some of you may remember Abigail, if you don't and haven't yet read Maude's story you may want to (although it's not required, just gives more depth and backstory), if you do you any not hold a favourable opinion of her. I disliked her coming in (not as much as I disliked her sister Madeline before her book) but trusted the author to change my opinion. Celeste Barclay not inky changed my opinion she made me respect the journey and the woman Abby has turned into. For someone with little experience, it was obvious that she pays attention and watched those around her. The decisions she made were all fitting of a Lady of the clan. She was brave and steadfast, her new clan welcomed her with open arms which was a nice surprise. I'm guessing there were already enough outside forces that we didn't need to add more family drama.

Ronan is a force to be reckoned with as well. He's not the typical alpha dominating many of these books. Ronan would much rather watch and learn than speak and give away his hand, he earns the respect by being a true leader instead of a forceful one. Many people underestimate him and learn too late their mistake. I enjoyed how well Abby compliments him, they work nicely together and become better together than they were apart. There is a bit of a role reversal with these two both in personality and experience.

One of my favourite parts of these stories is the glimpses we catch in the epilogue. It's a part of the story I look forward to the most because we not only see where our stories leads are later in life but we also get to see other connected pieces of this world that we've invested in before. I think the epilogue is enough to make those who haven't read other books in their series go back and read them. A glimpse is nice but not enough and they'll want more.
Profile Image for Denise .
931 reviews9 followers
February 9, 2021
“An Angel at the Highland Court” is book 11 in the Highland Ladies Series by Celeste Barclay. The author provides background about the historical setting she uses as a tweaked framework, and about some of the relevant clan dynamics. It is helpful and interesting, but if history is not your thing don’t worry about it because you can enjoy the book anyway. If you’re familiar with this series, you get to see some of the past characters appear in this story, but a prior knowledge of those other books is not necessary to enjoy this one.

Lady Abigail MacLeod is trying to be a better, less judgmental person after learning some harsh lessons in life. She realizes that she’d been very immature and selfish person, causing trouble for people including most importantly her brother and her sister-in-law. Abigail had jumped at the chance to have a handfasting with a man who turned out to be horribly using her. Now she is serving as a lady-in-waiting to the queen and trying to figure out her life. While in residence at the royal court, Abigail encounters Laird Ronan MacKinnon, who she first wrongly judges to be a meek man. It turns out he is simply a quiet and observant man who believes in thinking before he speaks. He is actually quite strong and decisive and an excellent leader. I enjoyed how the author flipped the usual gender norms with regard to sexual experience and gave the woman the more experienced role. Abigail and Ronan have terrific chemistry, and they communicate like smart adults instead of jumping to conclusions all the time.

This book starts off a little slow because there is a lot of background to set up, but then it kicks into high gear with lots of action and intensity. The bad guys are terrible, the alliances are awesome, the love scenes are sizzling hot, the humor is fun, the descriptions of the geography and locations are vivid, and the tension builds to a dramatic finish. Definitely an enjoyable story in a great series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,105 reviews19 followers
February 8, 2021
They Made Each Other A Better Person:
Book 11 continues the series of young ladies finding love at the court of King Robert.
The preface was very informative and reminded me about the fairy flag myth which plays a role in this story that is filled with fascinating characters along with many descriptive intimate love scenes, excitement, battles, emotions to conquer and so much more.
My review is going to take place with two parts. First half of book then last half.
The beginning is about two young people who have been called to court for different reasons.
Abigail a strong willed determined lass who has to redeem herself from her shamed past .
The reserved young brave laird Ronan who has been summoned to find a wife and find peace with neighboring clans.
They first meet by accident but it doesn't take long for sparks to fly.
Their sizzling attraction and intimate thoughts sets the first half of the book on a
curl your toes lust filled adventure that puts them on a rough road of growing up and
finding their HEA..
Their first kiss had me enjoying every bit of it until; Oh Dear😱
You'll have to read the story to find out why I was not expecting that.
The story is a long one but I did become more engrossed in their turmoil in the second half of the story. This is where they discover their emotions are not just lusty, they become aware of the importance of family, fight terrifying battles, surviving capture, discovering their strengths during war, the fairy flag re-emerges, and many more scenes that kept my interest to the end.
Some things I enjoyed were, heated detailed intimacy, how both matured into fantastic characters, a really good plot that was extremely engaging.
A good epilogue finished this high energy emotionally packed story that I thoroughly enjoyed.
✔️ Mature Reader Advised: If you don't like explicit content then this story might not be for you.
✔️ Descriptive Intimacy before marriage:
✔️ Heat level: 3+ out of 5
I did receive this book early through BookSprout which had no impact on my review.
Profile Image for Janet.
5,192 reviews64 followers
February 14, 2021
Ronan Mackinnon bears the weight of leading his clan and spares no time for his own pursuits. Summoned to court by King Robert the Bruce, Ronan diligently considers each of his words and actions to represent his clan with honour. But when King Robert demands Ronan chooses a bride, he’s forced to confront his past choices. The pleasures of the flesh play no part in his life--until Abigail MacLeod enters it. Lady Abigail MacLeod’s life is filled with poor choices. She misjudged her brother Kieran’s wallflower bride Maude when she arrived on the Isle of Lewis. She misjudged the man she entered a handfast with, and it ended in disgrace. Now a lady-in-waiting at King Robert the Bruce’s royal court, Abigail finds the opportunity to redeem her past wrong deeds. The MacLeods of Lewis are on good terms with the MacKinnons of Skye. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the MacLeods of Skye and the MacKinnons. When an old feud reignites, Abigail and Ronan are caught in the middle.
I first read this book as part of the Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms box set & I was blown away by it so thrilled that it is now nearly twice as long & just as engrossing & captivating. I still adored Ronan & Abigail was more than redeemed. The book starts slowly as there’s quite a bit of history surrounding clan relationships but then the pace gradually increases until the pages flew by & there was no way that I could put it down, luckily I started it early in the day so I wasn’t awake until silly hours to finish it. This is the eleventh book in the series & is still as fresh as the first. If you love medieval Scottish romances or to be honest, any romance then the author is right up your street. An extremely well written enthralling read with superb characters.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for Elaine .
659 reviews8 followers
February 13, 2021
Scotland under Robert to Bruce was a dangerous and highly political time with conflicts and intrigue between the clans and the different regions of Scotland. Abigail is a lady-in-waiting in Robert's court and Ronan is a young laird of a clan on the Isle of Skye. There is instant chemistry between them when Ronan is called to court to talk to Robert and is advised to find a suitable wife soon. This book had an interesting twist since Abigail had a disastrous year-long hand-fast (trial marriage) with a laird who abused her, so she is no longer a virgin. Ronan is a virgin after listening to advice from his father not to dally in his own backyard. It was fun and refreshing for the man to be instructed by the woman and not be a rogue. Abigail and Ronan have a very sweet, passionate and loving relationship that is very romantic. There is also a lot of action, warfare and drama when a neighboring clan, distantly related to Abigail's family, raids Ronan's clan. No spoilers but there is plenty of intrigue, angst and battle in the book. I definitely appreciate a strong female lead but I felt that the plot was not totally plausible when Abigail, after only a few days with her new clan and no experience in warfare, is planning battle strategy and barking orders at the warriors during battle. There were also a few other situations where I felt that she had an unbelievable role. The book was well written and entertaining but at times the dialog was repetitious and that Abigail and Ronan over-talked their issues.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
748 reviews11 followers
February 16, 2021
This story got better the more I read. It starts with Ronan being at court waiting to see King Robert the Bruce. Ronan listens more and weighs every word he says. He feels the weight of being a laird. He meets Abigail, who is a lady-in-waiting, when he finds himself lost in the castle. This turns out to be a good thing since the King tells him to find a wife. Abigail is not sure about Ronan as she did not have a good experience with her previous handfasting. Ronan is quiet and she can tell he isn't experienced in romance so it takes some serious conversations for her to agree. It was a bit different for the h to be more sexually experienced than the H. They found a lot in common and after arriving at her brother's castle, they decide to marry. It is at this point that the action begins to happen. They are kidnapped on their way home from her brothers. Ronan and his crew are held in the dungeons while she is given a room. Having been there as a child, she remembers the secret passages and manages to escape to her brothers for help. After a battle, they manage to get home only for Ronan to have to leave the next day to track down the warriors that sent to destroy his place. It is a trap and figures it out too late. Meanwhile Abigail realizes she has to help with the fortifications as the battle is coming by sea. Both of the main characters have strong wills and are intelligent. It is nice to see a story were the H respects the h especially since she is more knowledgeable sexually and that he is okay that she saved him. It is rather steamy so if you don't like that, then this book is not for you. While I don't mind some, it bordered on being too much which is about my only complaint about the book

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
38 reviews2 followers
February 18, 2021
A Great Read

Another fantastic book in the Highland Court series. This story has a bit of a different slant for Ronan Mackinnon and Abigail MacLeod. Ronan is a Laird and unmarried who has had it ingrained into him that sexual encounters before marriage would be devastating to the woman he marries. Abigail MacLeod is a woman who is now one of Queen Elizabeth's ladies in waiting. She was hand fasted to a cruel man who wanted her only for her land and monies. He has returned her to her clan. Her clan than sends her to Queen Elizabeth. Abigail is an experienced women having had sexual experiences with her husband. Ronan is an inexperienced when it comes to sexual experience now needs to marry for the good of his clan. Ronan and Abigain must decide if they could be together as man and wife per Robert the Bruce.

This story is so well written that characters pull at your heart strings. Scenes feel so real that you feel yourself immersed into their story. How Celeste can write a story uniquely geared for each of the many couples in her series, it is truly mind boggling. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sara K..
168 reviews2 followers
February 16, 2021
This was one of my favorites in the series, but I honestly feel like I say that with each new one! This really is turning out to be one fantastic series!
When we first met Lady Abigail MacLeod back in book 3 it wasn't particularly in her finest hour. She was the spoiled and mean spirited younger sister to Laird Kieran MacLeod, but life has dealt her some blows that have humbled her and made her take a long hard look into the person she'd become. After humiliating failed hand fast Abigail is sent to King Robert the Bruce's Scottish Court. She's decided to turn over a new leaf and is working to become a better person. It's here where she meets the strong and silent Laird Ronan Mackinnon and as the say the rest is history!
The romance between Abigail and Ronan was so sweet! Plus there was the refreshing fact that h is the one with the sexual experience and the H doesn't shame her for it! I highly recommend this one if you love a romance that has plenty of action to go along with the sweet and steamy moments! As also I look forward to what Ms. Barclay has in store for us next!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,120 reviews13 followers
February 17, 2021
Ronan MacKinnon is a dedicated, generous, and responsible Laird. He takes extremely good care of his people and their needs before and sometimes instead of his own. Ronan meets Abigail MacLeod, one of the queen’s Ladies-in-Waiting, when Robert the Bruce calls Ronan to court and “suggests” he take a wife. These two are quite taken with each other. There are some secrets and past mistakes to talk about and work through, but it seems a good match. On the way to a life together, a lot happens. The trouble begins when an old feud raises its head. This is a fast-paced full-of-action adventure that is hard to put down. The characters are awesome. Ronan and Abigail are both very intelligent. Separately and together, they handle what is thrown at them. They have bitter enemies, but they also have strong allies including Laird Kieran MacLeod, Abigail’s brother, and his wife Maude. A captivating adventure set in an interesting time in Scotland’s history and unforgettable characters make this a story you don’t want to miss. (Oh, and the preface is full of information, and the epilogue is great.)

I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout. My review is voluntary.
734 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2021
After Abigail is sent to Highland Court, she keeps mostly to herself, giving the impression she is shy and quiet. She just isn't wanting to bring attention to herself because of her failed handfasting. You will feel sorry for her because she feels guilty for treating her sister in law terribly and she was mistreated by her handfast husband. She regrets all of her past transgressions. She doesn't get a lot of attention because almost everyone knows about her being returned to her family at the end of her handfasting period.
Ronan is newly placed as Laird of his clan and he is trying to make the best he can. He has never slept around because his father made him feel guilty about leaving ladies after one night stands. When the king demands his presence he finds the king has decided he marry and since his run-in with Lady Abigail, he decides she is the one. She is quite and reserved, just what he wants in a wife.
I loved the twists and turns Abigail sends Ronan through. It is exciting and will keep you interested.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nathathida Atirekasâra.
1,231 reviews7 followers
February 28, 2021
I am so glad that Barclay rewrites this book from a novella in an anthology to a novel and adds it in her Highland Ladies series. After everything she has been through with her first marriage Abigail finally finds her own happiness. Her behavior towards Maude in the past was nasty but she has changed a lot in the better way since Maude's accident and her handfast that ended tragically. Ronan is one of a good laird and his father taught him well. They are perfect for each other. The story is a slow burn with a sizzling chemistry between Abigail and Ronan. And like every books in the Highland Ladies series, you will find steamy scenes... I think they are steamier than all the previous books so prepare for them. i also find that the plot is more intriguing, more exciting than the novella version and makes me enjoy reading the book more. I think the epilogue is the best way to end the first set of lady-in-waitings of the Highland Court before a book of the second set ladies will be published though.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
579 reviews3 followers
February 11, 2021
I love the Highland Ladies. I was very excited when I saw that the novella I enjoyed a few months ago was turned into a full length novel.

In the past Abigail has not been the best version of herself, she was downright selfish and mean even to those closest to her. Ronan is the Laird of the MacKinnon's of Skye. He is quite and reserved, more of a thinker than a talker and underestimated as a result. Abigail and Ronan meet when he is summoned to an audience with King Robert the Bruce. There is immediate chemistry between them. What ensues is a great story with fabulous characters, adventure, drama, and a lot of intimate moments.

There is a bit of a history lesson in the beginning as it is important to understand the clan intricacies of the time. Both clans are from the Hebrides which at the time had a complicated history and politics.

I really enjoy Celest Barclay's writing and love that she has created this world of King Robert the Bruce's court. I like to imagine that even during that difficult period in Scottish history that there was some happiness.
Profile Image for Carole Burant.
1,277 reviews36 followers
February 5, 2021
I love being swept away at the Highland Court! Wow, what an adventure! My mind is still reeling at how good this book was but then it doesn't surprise me as this author never disappoints. So much goes on in this story, there's never a dull moment and even when you think all is finally right with Ronan and Abigail's world...think again!!

I adored Ronan and Abigail's characters and it was also fun to see characters from previous books again as well. Ronan is a strong, quiet laird who would rather listen than talk. Abigail is more outgoing and ends up being quite the kick a$$ heroine!

Very well written and keeps your attention from start to finish. I also love it when some of the places mentioned in a story are real places because I always get on Google Earth and see exactly where these places are and it just seems to make the story that much more real.

I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Profile Image for Michelle Rupe.
412 reviews27 followers
February 7, 2021
I received an ARC from the publisher via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I feel out of my element on this one. I never read medieval romance, and I'm gonna guess that's why I didn't enjoy this so much. There were so many characters, I've never read one previous book in the series, and it felt like I was completely lost. It felt like it was a lot of history and the romance was kind of secondary. I just didn't feel the passion or chemistry. Maybe that's because I'm not used to this author or this series. It wasn't badly written, but it just wasn't my cup of tea. I also thought there were some silly misunderstandings between the couple that probably didn't need to happen. They had me rolling my eyes a couple times.

If you're already a fan of this series, then give this a try. If you've never read any of the others, proceed with caution because it makes this one a little confusing ⚠️
60 reviews1 follower
February 15, 2021
Celeste Barclay has given us another page turner! Ronan is summoned by King Robert not knowing why but determined to make a good showing for himself and his clan. Abigail is a lady in waiting to the Queen who has not always been accepting and kind to those around her. They meet at court and eventually open up to each other. Together they work through their perceived shortcomings.
Clan politics play a big role in this story. The courage and strength of both Abigail and Ronan is inspiring. They face plenty of danger and the outcome is unsure. I couldn't put this book down!
Strong, well developed and extremely likeable characters with close family ties and friendships.
Their relationship heats up and we get to know Ronan and Abigail more with each page we read.
A heartfelt and touching story set around the Christmas Holidays. The epilogue gives us a look into their future and gives us an even greater understanding of the family dynamics. Thoroughly enjoyed this book!
Profile Image for Debbie Brown.
2,042 reviews18 followers
February 17, 2021
Laird Ronan Mackinnon has been summoned to court by King Robert the Bruce and the King demands he choose a bride. Ronan keep s encountering Abigail MacLeod every time he gets lost in the castle she is always there to lend assistance. Ronan is a reserved Laird, quite, handsome Highlander and to some he lacks leadership skills because he’s so reserved. Unlike Abigail who’s made too many mistakes. She was hand fasted to another Highlander who never planned to live up to his marriage vows and sent her home in disgrace. After the King gave him the order to find a bride the first Lady Ronan thought of was the only woman who has caught his attention is the elusive Abigail. It soon becomes apparent they both need each other more than they realized. They’re threatened along the way and they both find out how strong they have become along the way, they and their love grows stronger with every challenge they face. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the excellent book.

624 reviews
February 17, 2021
Wonderful! History comes to life!

I thoroughly enjoyed this detail-rich story of life in the time of Robert the Bruce as seen by residents of the Hebrides. The author does an excellent job of introducing the places from which our Hero and heroine come, thus allowing the reader less familiar with the geography and history of Scotland to comfortably enter into the story. From that point, we settle into a nice tale that holds our interest.
The characters are well developed and multifaceted, not cardboard cutouts. The plot unfolds nicely. The friction between the clans offers drama that is woven throughout. Our H and h do reach their Happily-Ever-After. Readers who like their books to be long on historical and geographic details will especially enjoy this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6 reviews1 follower
Read
February 20, 2021
This was an interesting book with a reversal of roles in part, the man being a virgin and the woman having been handfasted prior to meeting. You took this unusual situation and molded it perfectly where she was the teacher in their love match. They were both very strong individuals in their own ways, making a perect match. Her strength and resolve quickly became apparent as the story went along, with her showing remarkable skills and growth as she encountered the various battles she was sucked up into, at time with his input, and at others with her inate growth and knowledge acquired from others over the years of stories she had heard around the evening fires. I really enjoyed this novel and your writing style coupled with your wonderful wisdom and ability to bring out the best in your characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debs.
1,189 reviews13 followers
February 20, 2021
When it comes to Highland Romance, no one does it better than Celeste Barclay. "An Angel at the Highland Court, book 11, is no exception. There are mentions of connections, but even if this is your first read in the series, this is Ronan and Abigail's story to enjoy. When Ronan, as the new laird of his clan in the Isle of Skye reports to the King, it is suggested he find a wife. A strong woman in her own right, Abigail will be that wife. Their story is filled with adventure and is action packed with some hot sexy scenes, as these two face their past mistakes and work through it all as they find a way to their own happiness. For historical romance readers that love a bit of bite to their stories, this is one not to be missed. **I was gifted "An Angel at the Highland Court" via Booksprout, leaving my review based on my reading.** 5 Stars!
Profile Image for Amy Bryant.
63 reviews
February 24, 2021
I think I say this evertime but Celeste never ceases to amaze me. This time we have Abigail and Ronan. They meet at court and there is an attraction. Abigail has a troubled past but she has grown. Some things linger and she jumps to conclusions about Ronan. When he shows her the error of her ways things spark. King Robert has insists Ronan marry and the only one Ronan has eyes for is Abby. They marry and an adventure begins and an enemy emerges. When Ronan and Abby sail to his home they are attacked and imprisoned. Will they be able to escape? All I can say is never underestimate a fierce woman and love. I so enjoyed this book. The growth of the characters is wonderful to watch and their fight is heart stopping. Do you need all the feels? Well look no further.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,955 reviews18 followers
February 11, 2021
I have enjoyed all of the stories in the Highland Ladies series and as usual this one does not disappoint. It is so well written that you are able to picture what is happening as if you were an observer on the sidelines, as the story unfolds. The story shows Abigail as she becomes the mature and self confident woman that makes her a perfect match for Ronan. Abigail becomes a much stronger woman than she ever though possible. During danger, they each fight to save their clan and way of life. The bond they have is unbreakable and their children are a testament to their devotion to each other. This is a great story that I would highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
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