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The Victorian Highlanders #5.5
Duncan's Christmas
While the woman he captures that freezing winter night is not the woman he intended to nab, she just may be the one intended for him.
Duncan McDougall lost his betrothed to another man—an English vicar, to add to the insult. Despite his hatred for London, he promises her father that he will travel to London and retrieve her. He just never counted on retrieving the wrong woman.
Jane Campbell has always lived in the shadow of her older sister. When Mary implores Jane to leave her home in the Highlands to help her sister through her difficult pregnancy, Jane sees no choice but to agree—until, one night, she is mistaken for her sister, and finds herself stolen away in the arms of a man who doesn’t even remember meeting her.
Duncan refuses to leave London without both Campbell women, while Jane has no intentions of leaving her sister. They have no choice but to spend Christmas in London, where they discover a new season—and a new love.
For readers over 18 due to some steamy content.
Duncan's Christmas was first published in the anthology, Have Yourself a Merry Little Scandal
Duncan McDougall lost his betrothed to another man—an English vicar, to add to the insult. Despite his hatred for London, he promises her father that he will travel to London and retrieve her. He just never counted on retrieving the wrong woman.
Jane Campbell has always lived in the shadow of her older sister. When Mary implores Jane to leave her home in the Highlands to help her sister through her difficult pregnancy, Jane sees no choice but to agree—until, one night, she is mistaken for her sister, and finds herself stolen away in the arms of a man who doesn’t even remember meeting her.
Duncan refuses to leave London without both Campbell women, while Jane has no intentions of leaving her sister. They have no choice but to spend Christmas in London, where they discover a new season—and a new love.
For readers over 18 due to some steamy content.
Duncan's Christmas was first published in the anthology, Have Yourself a Merry Little Scandal
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2020
30 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Ellie St. Clair
215 books374 followersEllie St. Clair writes heartwarming Regency romances with spirited heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and happily ever afters. Her passion for history shines through in richly drawn characters and romances brimming with irresistible tension.
A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.
When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.
Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.
Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.
A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.
When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.
Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.
Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 24, 2021
This is a sweet holiday romance with strong characters in Jane and Duncan. It's a humorous ,entertaining story with a cast of supporting characters who help make this a fun Christmas read. It's well written with descriptive scenes ,moves quickly and smoothly and is a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 27, 2021
Duncan’s Christmas, by Ellie St. Clair. I knew that I would love this short Christmas read. Duncan and Jane were fantastic in this book. The couple allowed me to get lost in the happy times of the holiday season for a few moments. Duncan, whose a Highlander fought hard with accepting the English traditions of Christmas. He wasn’t having any of it. Jane saw this in him. She didn’t push to hard with him, but gently guided him into participating in the activities around the house. Then things got real interesting. The writer did a great job with the telling of this love story. This was an entertaining story, without all the drama. There are wonderful characters and plenty of joy and happiness. This was a good book to read.
May 17, 2021
What an absolutely delightful Christmas tale! Duncan’s journey to London starts out so well, but when he abducts Jane, things get turned on their head. The unexpected attraction between this wonderful couple throws Duncan for a six, but he is certain that he doesn’t want a wife. I loved the Christmas celebrations with Billy’s family. Christmas miracles are definitely in the air though and the final chapters prove that love wins out above everything in the end.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 27, 2022
I read this in an anthology called "Have Yourself A Merry Little Scandal". Novella length with a Scottish Highlander in Victorian London.
So, I liked the heroine, but the hero had a little too much gruff & bossy for me. He grew on me by the end. Unfortunately, the problem with this story is the length. It's too short to get any depth to it.
The end seems rushed.
Apparently this is the prequel to a series of highlander romances.
Hot cover!
So, I liked the heroine, but the hero had a little too much gruff & bossy for me. He grew on me by the end. Unfortunately, the problem with this story is the length. It's too short to get any depth to it.
The end seems rushed.
Apparently this is the prequel to a series of highlander romances.
Hot cover!
April 15, 2021
A happy Christmas romance between a highlander and his intended bride's sister, the intended having eloped with an Englishman. A very full description of a rather sentimentalised Victorian Christmas, is the background to their unexpected romance.
May 9, 2021
I have read this story twice now. Once when it come out at Christmas in a Collection with other authors that is no longer available. The second time when I found out the story was to be a standalone. This is a great, holiday story of misunderstanding, seeing beyond pride and anger.
The future Laird McDougall, Duncan is in London a city he hates for one reason only. To find and bring the woman ,Mary Campbell, that he was betrothed to back to Scotland. She wounded him in the worst way by running off with other man, and an Englishman at that !! With the help of his two friends, Niall and Keith they find out where she is staying and Duncan kidnaps her . Only one problem, he has grabbed, wrapped up and taken the wrong Campbell woman. Jane is her sister and has come to help her. She is a healer and Mary is ill. After finding out Mary is going nowhere with him. He decides he will not leave London without Jane at least to return to her father. Only problem Jane will not leave to Mary is well again.. So starts the funny, witty advantage for one very large, handsome man who has made many mistakes. Duncan is about to have a true English Christmas, with lot of family and trimming. During which time he and Jane both find an attraction neither have felt before. This is a fun, somewhat intriguing story. How the two work things out and just maybe have not only a happy ever after but learn something about each other too.
This is a fast read, once you get started you just can't put down..
I know now is odd time to think about Christmas story, but come on a good Christmas is always a delightful read.
The future Laird McDougall, Duncan is in London a city he hates for one reason only. To find and bring the woman ,Mary Campbell, that he was betrothed to back to Scotland. She wounded him in the worst way by running off with other man, and an Englishman at that !! With the help of his two friends, Niall and Keith they find out where she is staying and Duncan kidnaps her . Only one problem, he has grabbed, wrapped up and taken the wrong Campbell woman. Jane is her sister and has come to help her. She is a healer and Mary is ill. After finding out Mary is going nowhere with him. He decides he will not leave London without Jane at least to return to her father. Only problem Jane will not leave to Mary is well again.. So starts the funny, witty advantage for one very large, handsome man who has made many mistakes. Duncan is about to have a true English Christmas, with lot of family and trimming. During which time he and Jane both find an attraction neither have felt before. This is a fun, somewhat intriguing story. How the two work things out and just maybe have not only a happy ever after but learn something about each other too.
This is a fast read, once you get started you just can't put down..
I know now is odd time to think about Christmas story, but come on a good Christmas is always a delightful read.
May 26, 2021
This author can write novella's or full novels. I'm an avid reader and I can tell you not all author's can do this. This is a novella, that is packed with so much!
I got a kick out of how Duncan and his 2 friends are sent from the Highlands to London to retrieve his betrothed. Not to bring her back for himself, but as a promise he made to her father. He ends up kidnapping her sister instead and that is where the story gets interesting.
The character's came to life in this novella. I felt I understood each of their unique personalities. Add to the secondary character's and the season of Christmas comes shining through. Our H (a big Highlander) isn't use to the traditions the English borrowed from the German's and has his eyes opened. The h feels like no-one really sees her, until the H finally sees what is in front of him. I loved the journey to HEA!
There is mild lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 2 out of 5.
No cheating, romance builds slowly and a small tad (1) of spice. (ljb)
I got a kick out of how Duncan and his 2 friends are sent from the Highlands to London to retrieve his betrothed. Not to bring her back for himself, but as a promise he made to her father. He ends up kidnapping her sister instead and that is where the story gets interesting.
The character's came to life in this novella. I felt I understood each of their unique personalities. Add to the secondary character's and the season of Christmas comes shining through. Our H (a big Highlander) isn't use to the traditions the English borrowed from the German's and has his eyes opened. The h feels like no-one really sees her, until the H finally sees what is in front of him. I loved the journey to HEA!
There is mild lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 2 out of 5.
No cheating, romance builds slowly and a small tad (1) of spice. (ljb)
May 9, 2021
Duncan McDougall is on a mission to reclaim his betrothed Mary and leave London before the beginning of the blasted English Christmas. Though the woman he captures that freezing winter night is not the woman he intended to nab, she just may be the one intended for him. Jane has travelled to London to help her sister Mary who is having a difficult pregnancy she didn’t expect to be grabbed by a large highlander.
Oh what a treat this was, the story of Duncan & Jane parents of the siblings featured in the Victorian Highlanders series. Duncan & Jane were like chalk & cheese but together sparks flew, I loved Duncan who didn’t understand the English Christmas celebrations but he did begin to embrace them, Jane was a very caring sister, however the attraction between the pair was electric. A lovely novella which I read in a sitting. I first read this engrossing novella in the Merry little Scandal box set
Oh what a treat this was, the story of Duncan & Jane parents of the siblings featured in the Victorian Highlanders series. Duncan & Jane were like chalk & cheese but together sparks flew, I loved Duncan who didn’t understand the English Christmas celebrations but he did begin to embrace them, Jane was a very caring sister, however the attraction between the pair was electric. A lovely novella which I read in a sitting. I first read this engrossing novella in the Merry little Scandal box set
May 26, 2021
Mary the woman Duncan was to marry had run away with an English man now Duncan was in England searching for Mary to return her to her father. He no longer wants to marry a woman who doesn't want him. Upon finding Mary's home Duncan breaks in during the night and steals the woman back. The next morning he must return her instead of Mary he had taken her sister. Jane explains Mary is with child and having difficulties and can not be moved. Mary had married her English man who is the vicar of the small town they love each other but agree to have Duncan stay in their home until the birth of the baby he then will return to the Highlands. Jane becomes a friend of sorts and also misses home the both are going to learn about Christmas in England and something about love. I've read this story more than once it is such a sweet heartwarming story. I received this as an ARC and this is my honest review.
May 8, 2021
This was the perfect holiday story that left you feeling very happy! Ms. St. Clair has given us a wonderful story with a handsome, future Scottish laird & a daughter of a Scottish doctor who has learned to be a healer. Duncan & Jane are blindsided when they find love together - it's a fun & humorous read with great family members, a sister giving birth, bungled kidnapping, & Scots in England as guests who celebrate Christmas. I laughed, shed a few tears a couple of times - you will love it!
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of the books I reviewed in this anthology & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of the books I reviewed in this anthology & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
May 19, 2021
This is a sweet fun read that is heart warming. It occurs during the Christmas season in London where Highlander Duncan has come on the search of Mary in order to return her to her father in Scotland. Here he meets Jane and is intrigued by her caring nature for her sister who is enduring a difficult pregnancy. Things don’t turn out like he had planned except he and Jane admit their love for each other. The story is well written and entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a hreview.
I received a free copy of this book via Bookfunnel and are voluntarily leaving a hreview.
May 27, 2021
The best kind of surprise.
I know it is not Christmas time but this steamy gem was such fun to read. Jane’s sister was betrothed to Duncan yet she married another and now is ready to give birth. This is where Jane comes in she has traveled to help her sister. Now Duncan makes a mistake and steals the wrong sister but fate has a grand surprise for him in Jane. Excellent characters and a story that will be one you will read over and over again it is that good! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I know it is not Christmas time but this steamy gem was such fun to read. Jane’s sister was betrothed to Duncan yet she married another and now is ready to give birth. This is where Jane comes in she has traveled to help her sister. Now Duncan makes a mistake and steals the wrong sister but fate has a grand surprise for him in Jane. Excellent characters and a story that will be one you will read over and over again it is that good! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
June 5, 2021
From the first page to the last you will be enjoy this short read that will keep you spellbound in Duncan's Christmas as it unfolds beautifully. Ellie St Clair has given readers a book that is well-written and well-paced, filled it with great cast of characters that come off the pages and pull you into this emotional ride that keeps you involved until the very end, sizzling passion, heartfelt dialogue, with an enjoyable plot that brings this read together perfectly!
December 20, 2025
This was just ok. I felt the vicar's family was really selfish (except for Nick) considering the hardship Mary was having. Christmas is SO important that you have to overwhelm the poor girl? The love triangle (really didn't get far enough to be considered that) was a bit meh. Also, kind of interesting that Mary has pre-marital sex with a vicar - not sure if that was meant to be some kind of author commentary.
May 27, 2021
A story to make the heart happy. A broken betrothal, the wrong sister and an English Christmas had Duncan in a tizzy. Really noticing Jane repairs his heart and makes him believe in Christmas miracles. Jane's sister broke the betrothal and ran off with someone else but Duncan realizes Jane is who he needs.
May 27, 2021
He’s stubborn.
She’s there to support her sister through her pregnancy.
He nabs the wrong sister.
Yep. Duncan is determined to bring Mary home (though she’s married to another man’s and pregnant). It’s Jane (Mary’s sister) that he gets entangled with.
Stubborn man.
Purchased in a previous anthology.
She’s there to support her sister through her pregnancy.
He nabs the wrong sister.
Yep. Duncan is determined to bring Mary home (though she’s married to another man’s and pregnant). It’s Jane (Mary’s sister) that he gets entangled with.
Stubborn man.
Purchased in a previous anthology.
August 17, 2022
I was enjoying the story of Jane and Duncan. Then along comes Nicks secret and there ya go. It did not need to be added to the story imho and ruined it for me. We get enough of that shoved down our throats daily and I don’t enjoy it my books UnLESS I choose to read that!! That was the last book of Ms. St. Claire’s I will read! This is just my opinion and review!
April 26, 2021
This was a very nice love story. The characters were well written, too. There was romance, passion, drama, intrigue (just a tad), and a small bit of angst. Definitely worthy of a Keeper for the Shelves award.
December 5, 2022
An Adorable, wonderful & Romantic Novella
This Novella was Absolutely Wonderful Story.
Jane & Duncan's story & characters were wonderful.
I don't want to spoil the story by writing anything about this Story.
I am looking forward to reading Callum's story next.
This Novella was Absolutely Wonderful Story.
Jane & Duncan's story & characters were wonderful.
I don't want to spoil the story by writing anything about this Story.
I am looking forward to reading Callum's story next.
June 18, 2023
No one in this book had any integrity. The heroine's sister had sex with a vicar and got pregeant while betrothed to the hero. The hero had sex with the virgin heroine when he was supposed to be taking her home safely to her father.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2023
Beautiful
Beautiful story of the Magic of Christmas where love is found. Duncan and Jane are wonderful characters who discover each other and grow to love each other. This is really a beautiful story.
Beautiful story of the Magic of Christmas where love is found. Duncan and Jane are wonderful characters who discover each other and grow to love each other. This is really a beautiful story.
May 26, 2021
A sweet Christmas story. Duncan leaves the Highlands to rescue one Lass and ends up with another. The story has a melodic flow to it as it tells Duncan and Jane’s love story. A easy paced holiday romanced that is sure to put stars in your eyes.
May 31, 2021
Enjoyed this story. Loved the tension between all of the characters. I received an arc of this book.
September 8, 2021
I enjoyed this story. It was a little predictable. I needed it in these days of the unknown and world troubles. Light and fun, able to escape for awhile.
December 20, 2021
Totally unique holiday romance story.
December 31, 2021
Arrangements
Enjoy your creative mind and the plots you come up with. Always a delight to read and escape the world for a little.
Enjoy your creative mind and the plots you come up with. Always a delight to read and escape the world for a little.
June 8, 2023
It was like reading a Hallmark movie ;)
May 8, 2021
Duncan is a Scot lord whose fiance eloped with an English vicar. He kidnaps her sister Jane by mistake and they fall in love. I enjoyed this romantic story when I read it in an anthology. Another lovely story by one of my favorite authors.
May 10, 2021
A promise, a vow, kidnapping the wrong person, having to wait, discovering the love for each other and so much more in this enchanting story
June 18, 2021
Duncan's Christmas is a lovely and heart warming novella by Ellie St. Clair. Duncan and Jane are wonderful characters, both Scottish and thrown together during an English Christmas. New traditions and a new love found.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews