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Highland Hearts #2
Tangled Hearts
The Tudors take on The Pirates of the Caribbean in this 16th century romantic adventure!
Pandora Wyatt is the most complicated woman alive. Raised by a pirate captain, Dory risks exposure of her magic to free the only father she’s ever known from the Tower of London. But when she’s tied to a smoldering witch’s pyre, her powers aren’t enough to save her.
Ewan Brody is on a mission to deliver a traitor’s corpse to King Henry VIII when he rescues a beautiful spitfire from a horrific fate. Saving the lass’s life leads him on an adventure he never intended. Thrust together in the roles of husband and wife, they dodge royal intrigue, dark twists, and secrets as they attempt to find the true traitor at the Tudor court.
Magic and adventure spark, igniting a fire between Ewan and Dory, consuming them and tangling their hearts together forever. But to reach forever, they first need to survive the day.
Pandora Wyatt is the most complicated woman alive. Raised by a pirate captain, Dory risks exposure of her magic to free the only father she’s ever known from the Tower of London. But when she’s tied to a smoldering witch’s pyre, her powers aren’t enough to save her.
Ewan Brody is on a mission to deliver a traitor’s corpse to King Henry VIII when he rescues a beautiful spitfire from a horrific fate. Saving the lass’s life leads him on an adventure he never intended. Thrust together in the roles of husband and wife, they dodge royal intrigue, dark twists, and secrets as they attempt to find the true traitor at the Tudor court.
Magic and adventure spark, igniting a fire between Ewan and Dory, consuming them and tangling their hearts together forever. But to reach forever, they first need to survive the day.
Audiobook
First published January 28, 2014
96 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Heather McCollum
64 books1,104 followersI am Heather McCollum, writer of 16th and 17th century Scottish romance full of adventure and intrigue, sprinkled with humor, history, and spice. Brawny Highlanders and feisty heroines are my favorite characters!
I am also a mom of three kids, dog-mom of one rescued geriatric golden retriever, and wife of one 6 foot 4 inch Highlander. When I’m not trying to help my kids make it through the day, baking things I see on The Great British Baking Show, or writing, I’m usually educating women on ovarian cancer (I’m a nine-year survivor).
I love kilted heroes, chai lattes, and eating buttered air-popped popcorn for dinner on Friday nights (my dog loves this one too).
If you’re interested in my new releases, fun historical tidbits, sales, and giveaways, sign up for my newsletter!
Newsletter https://www.heathermccollum.com/newsl...
And you are welcome to stalk me here as well:
Twitter https://twitter.com/HMcCollumAuthor
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This author also writes under: Eleri Drake
I am also a mom of three kids, dog-mom of one rescued geriatric golden retriever, and wife of one 6 foot 4 inch Highlander. When I’m not trying to help my kids make it through the day, baking things I see on The Great British Baking Show, or writing, I’m usually educating women on ovarian cancer (I’m a nine-year survivor).
I love kilted heroes, chai lattes, and eating buttered air-popped popcorn for dinner on Friday nights (my dog loves this one too).
If you’re interested in my new releases, fun historical tidbits, sales, and giveaways, sign up for my newsletter!
Newsletter https://www.heathermccollum.com/newsl...
And you are welcome to stalk me here as well:
Twitter https://twitter.com/HMcCollumAuthor
FB https://www.facebook.com/HeatherMcCol...
Pinterest http://www.pinterest.com/hmccollumaut...
This author also writes under: Eleri Drake
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 3, 2014
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3 Stars
Ending ~ 4.5 Stars with an epilogue
Overall Rating ~ 5 Stars
Gosh, how I loved this book. It had everything that makes a fantastic historical romance.
The story line was VERY exciting and fast paced. I was glued to my Kindle as my fingers swiped to turn the pages as fast as I could read. I really enjoyed the fact that a large part of this story took place in King Henry the VIII's court. It was was very well done and it added a lot of historical accuracy to the story. If that’s wasn't enough, it also included pirates dealing with snatching children to sell into slavery, then add in pirates battling at sea , YEP, VERY EXCITING!
Dory the heroine was an extremely unique character. She's a pirate, a traitor’s daughter, a possible heiress and had some VERY special magical and healing abilities.
I LOVED EWAN the hero; he was a sigh worthy Scottish warrior hunk. He was also strong and honorable, but most of all, he was really protective of those he loved.
There were only a few love scenes added. I thought they were done well and VERY sensual, just the right amount of heat to please me.
This book also grabbed me emotionally and I cried a few times while reading. I was totally invested in the story line and the characters throughout this book.
This book is the second in the Highland Hearts series. I have not read book 1, Captured Hearts and some of the characters from it were also included in Tangled Hearts, but I had absolutely NO problem reading this as a standalone.
Overall I felt this was an excellent read for me. I can honestly say that I would definitely be interested in reading more romances by the talented Heather McCollum.
This book was gifted to me for an honest review.
Story Rating ~ 5 Stars
Hero Rating ~ 5 Stars
Heroine Rating ~ 5 Stars
Romance Rating ~ 4 Stars
Heat Level ~ 3 Stars
Ending ~ 4.5 Stars with an epilogue
Overall Rating ~ 5 Stars
Gosh, how I loved this book. It had everything that makes a fantastic historical romance.
The story line was VERY exciting and fast paced. I was glued to my Kindle as my fingers swiped to turn the pages as fast as I could read. I really enjoyed the fact that a large part of this story took place in King Henry the VIII's court. It was was very well done and it added a lot of historical accuracy to the story. If that’s wasn't enough, it also included pirates dealing with snatching children to sell into slavery, then add in pirates battling at sea , YEP, VERY EXCITING!
Dory the heroine was an extremely unique character. She's a pirate, a traitor’s daughter, a possible heiress and had some VERY special magical and healing abilities.
I LOVED EWAN the hero; he was a sigh worthy Scottish warrior hunk. He was also strong and honorable, but most of all, he was really protective of those he loved.
There were only a few love scenes added. I thought they were done well and VERY sensual, just the right amount of heat to please me.
This book also grabbed me emotionally and I cried a few times while reading. I was totally invested in the story line and the characters throughout this book.
This book is the second in the Highland Hearts series. I have not read book 1, Captured Hearts and some of the characters from it were also included in Tangled Hearts, but I had absolutely NO problem reading this as a standalone.
Overall I felt this was an excellent read for me. I can honestly say that I would definitely be interested in reading more romances by the talented Heather McCollum.
This book was gifted to me for an honest review.
April 3, 2014
Highlanders delivering the body of a traitor straight to England's royal court, pirates to rescue from the Tower, a magic wielding lady pirate to the rescue, a suspicious King, traitors at court, and ah yes, things are ripe for high adventure, intrigue and romance (and not necessarily in that order). I saw all these elements and I just couldn't pass up the opportunity for a fun, swashbuckling adventure with a bit of the paranormal to make things interesting.
Pandora Wyatt is alone in England for the first time, but she pushes aside her fears because she is on a life or death mission to rescue the only family she knows. She has enough magic running through her to bring down lightning on an enemies head or heal some one who is near death, but she doesn't dare use it unless she wants to avoid getting burned as a witch. She has to make her way to The Tower of London and counted on her real father to help her secure Captain Bart and Jim's release, but her kind heart gets her into trouble before she can work out her plan.
Ewan Brody and Searc Munro agree to take the dead carcass of Boswell the traitor to London because King Henry VIII ordered it and the proof turned over to him. Along the way, Ewan rescues an unusual woman with magical powers, a conniving way about her that has him committed to a certain death venture, and yet he doesn't say no.
On the road, the little party encounters Jane Seymour who is now to be courted by the King and the pretense of Dory and Ewan being married begins. Dory does sweet, fearful Jane a service that may turn out to reap a reward later. On arriving in London, Dory is declared to be a lost Wellington, a noble family or the court. The King and some in his court are suspicious of the new arrivals, but things really start to buzz when it comes out that Boswell wasn't the only traitor seeking Henry's life. Henry exacts a promise that Ewan and Dory will run down this third traitor or suffer a traitor's fate for themselves. Meanwhile, crafty enemies close in around them and the men they came to rescue. Dory's magic might get them in trouble first. Or there is the fact, that the falsely married pair might have started to feel that it was all too real and love is the most dangerous adventure of all.
This story was a fun romp with there always being an element of danger or intrigue. There was so many things in play that it was an extensive story. It was almost too much and having all of it going on got distracting at times. This was just a minor niggle.
Just as Dory's stubborn 'I can protect myself' attitude caused some eye rolls on occasion. She gets people into deadly danger due to her leap first attitude and heavy reliance on her magic, but then afterward feels the remorse. It didn't ruin the story and in truth Dory's danger-prone ways kept things mighty interesting and they certainly had big, brawny and brave Ewan looking the hero to the rescue many times. Dory is a woman of parts. She was raised at sea by a band of rowdy pirates so she has some street savvy, but Captain Bart also kept her isolated to a certain extent so that her savvy doesn't run to the strategic planning sort who can blend in at a royal court or the sort who gets the subtleties of love and being a gentlewoman. She's brash, has a sailor's mouth, but is also a woman's winsomeness that wants to be thought beautiful and attractive by the man she admires. She gets into trouble usually because she has a heart for others particularly exploited children of the streets. She was a very likeable heroine.
Ewan amused me and had me swooning in turn. His boasting confidence and demeanor about the ladies just had me snickering that he was so going down. Dory is the opposite of his ideal woman of course, but sure enough, it's not long before he has the 'mine' attitude about her. She frustrates him, drives him wild and has him so turned around after just a few days- you go girl. He soon learns that he might have met his match with this female. I loved the way his honor and sense of duty along with his warrior skills and courage shown through. He wasn't afraid of Dory's magic nor turned away by her illegitimate bloodlines or her rougher qualities. In fact, he loved her for her differences.
And together? These two were scorching. They could passionately fight or love equally wholeheartedly. A definite match.
The historical backdrop was great. It was balanced well in the story so that it didn't push aside the romance and adventure plots. Henry Tudor's court and Tudor England need little help to be made fascinating. I loved that real historical figures like Henry, Jane Seymour and Thomas Cromwell were included.
I should also point out that this is really the second book in a series and their are glimpses of a continued plot threat from the first book. I had no trouble reading it without the benefit of having read the first book so I suppose it could be read as a standalone. Personally, I'll be going back for Caden's book and going on to Searc's as well as the two novellas. I love the Highlanders and these braw lads all appeared in Ewan's story leaving me eager for each of their own stories.
All in all, it was a grand adventure into this historical romance with so much to please for a historical romance fan who loves a fiery couple and doesn't mind a paranormal element tossed in for fun.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Pandora Wyatt is alone in England for the first time, but she pushes aside her fears because she is on a life or death mission to rescue the only family she knows. She has enough magic running through her to bring down lightning on an enemies head or heal some one who is near death, but she doesn't dare use it unless she wants to avoid getting burned as a witch. She has to make her way to The Tower of London and counted on her real father to help her secure Captain Bart and Jim's release, but her kind heart gets her into trouble before she can work out her plan.
Ewan Brody and Searc Munro agree to take the dead carcass of Boswell the traitor to London because King Henry VIII ordered it and the proof turned over to him. Along the way, Ewan rescues an unusual woman with magical powers, a conniving way about her that has him committed to a certain death venture, and yet he doesn't say no.
On the road, the little party encounters Jane Seymour who is now to be courted by the King and the pretense of Dory and Ewan being married begins. Dory does sweet, fearful Jane a service that may turn out to reap a reward later. On arriving in London, Dory is declared to be a lost Wellington, a noble family or the court. The King and some in his court are suspicious of the new arrivals, but things really start to buzz when it comes out that Boswell wasn't the only traitor seeking Henry's life. Henry exacts a promise that Ewan and Dory will run down this third traitor or suffer a traitor's fate for themselves. Meanwhile, crafty enemies close in around them and the men they came to rescue. Dory's magic might get them in trouble first. Or there is the fact, that the falsely married pair might have started to feel that it was all too real and love is the most dangerous adventure of all.
This story was a fun romp with there always being an element of danger or intrigue. There was so many things in play that it was an extensive story. It was almost too much and having all of it going on got distracting at times. This was just a minor niggle.
Just as Dory's stubborn 'I can protect myself' attitude caused some eye rolls on occasion. She gets people into deadly danger due to her leap first attitude and heavy reliance on her magic, but then afterward feels the remorse. It didn't ruin the story and in truth Dory's danger-prone ways kept things mighty interesting and they certainly had big, brawny and brave Ewan looking the hero to the rescue many times. Dory is a woman of parts. She was raised at sea by a band of rowdy pirates so she has some street savvy, but Captain Bart also kept her isolated to a certain extent so that her savvy doesn't run to the strategic planning sort who can blend in at a royal court or the sort who gets the subtleties of love and being a gentlewoman. She's brash, has a sailor's mouth, but is also a woman's winsomeness that wants to be thought beautiful and attractive by the man she admires. She gets into trouble usually because she has a heart for others particularly exploited children of the streets. She was a very likeable heroine.
Ewan amused me and had me swooning in turn. His boasting confidence and demeanor about the ladies just had me snickering that he was so going down. Dory is the opposite of his ideal woman of course, but sure enough, it's not long before he has the 'mine' attitude about her. She frustrates him, drives him wild and has him so turned around after just a few days- you go girl. He soon learns that he might have met his match with this female. I loved the way his honor and sense of duty along with his warrior skills and courage shown through. He wasn't afraid of Dory's magic nor turned away by her illegitimate bloodlines or her rougher qualities. In fact, he loved her for her differences.
And together? These two were scorching. They could passionately fight or love equally wholeheartedly. A definite match.
The historical backdrop was great. It was balanced well in the story so that it didn't push aside the romance and adventure plots. Henry Tudor's court and Tudor England need little help to be made fascinating. I loved that real historical figures like Henry, Jane Seymour and Thomas Cromwell were included.
I should also point out that this is really the second book in a series and their are glimpses of a continued plot threat from the first book. I had no trouble reading it without the benefit of having read the first book so I suppose it could be read as a standalone. Personally, I'll be going back for Caden's book and going on to Searc's as well as the two novellas. I love the Highlanders and these braw lads all appeared in Ewan's story leaving me eager for each of their own stories.
All in all, it was a grand adventure into this historical romance with so much to please for a historical romance fan who loves a fiery couple and doesn't mind a paranormal element tossed in for fun.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 28, 2014
Tangled Hearts by Heather McCollum is a January 2014 Entangled Pubication. I was provided a copy of the this by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Pandora Wyatt was raised by pirates, is a witch, and is the daughter of an alleged traitor to the king.
Ewan Brody is a Scottish Highlander on a mission to bring the deceased traitor to Henry the 8th. Along the way he rescues Pandora from certain death, as she was about to be executed for being a witch. Ewan gets more than he bargained for when Dory convinces him and his cousin to help her rescue the pirate captain that raised her, who happens to be imprisioned in the tower.
Passing themselves off as a married couple, things get complicated for the couple as Dory's true parentage is discovered, there is a plot to kill the king, and Ewan could be blamed. Amidst all the drama and intrigued Dory and Ewan fall in love.
This story has a mixture of fantasy, history, the paranormal, and romance but is set against the backdrop of actual history during the Tudor years. The author embellishes history and turns it into speculative fiction and it turns out to be quite a charming story.
Dory is an awesome character with magical abilities and fierce loyalty. Ewan is very honorable and a true gentleman. You will love Dory and Ewan as well as the secondary characters.
The only issue I had with the story was that it was little confusing at times, maybe complicated would be a better word. In other words I had to really slow down and read carefully or I would have lost the thread. A time or two the story lost a little momentum, but not for long.
Although this is the second book in the series, you will not have a problem reading it as a stand alone. If you like pirates, magic, history, highlanders, adventure, and romance you don't want to miss this one.
This one gets an A.
Pandora Wyatt was raised by pirates, is a witch, and is the daughter of an alleged traitor to the king.
Ewan Brody is a Scottish Highlander on a mission to bring the deceased traitor to Henry the 8th. Along the way he rescues Pandora from certain death, as she was about to be executed for being a witch. Ewan gets more than he bargained for when Dory convinces him and his cousin to help her rescue the pirate captain that raised her, who happens to be imprisioned in the tower.
Passing themselves off as a married couple, things get complicated for the couple as Dory's true parentage is discovered, there is a plot to kill the king, and Ewan could be blamed. Amidst all the drama and intrigued Dory and Ewan fall in love.
This story has a mixture of fantasy, history, the paranormal, and romance but is set against the backdrop of actual history during the Tudor years. The author embellishes history and turns it into speculative fiction and it turns out to be quite a charming story.
Dory is an awesome character with magical abilities and fierce loyalty. Ewan is very honorable and a true gentleman. You will love Dory and Ewan as well as the secondary characters.
The only issue I had with the story was that it was little confusing at times, maybe complicated would be a better word. In other words I had to really slow down and read carefully or I would have lost the thread. A time or two the story lost a little momentum, but not for long.
Although this is the second book in the series, you will not have a problem reading it as a stand alone. If you like pirates, magic, history, highlanders, adventure, and romance you don't want to miss this one.
This one gets an A.
January 29, 2014
Tangled Hearts by Heather McCollum, book two of The Highland Hearts Series,
Dory is on a mission to save her Captain Bart and almost brother Will from the Tower of London.
Ewan has one mission: to return the traitorous corpse to the King. But along the way he sees Dory in distress and leaps to her protection, which starts a series of events that neither could have foretold.
The character interactions were intense and the way Ewan and Dory worked together to just survive the Kings court was exceptionally well written! Between the King, his advisor, the hanger ons, past enemies, along with the unexpected arrival of compatriots, and not forgetting Ewan's trusty stead Goath, the story just twists and turns in directions you couldn't imagine, with many challenges abound!
Tangled Hearts was the first book I've read by Heather McCollum and I was not disappointed.
The characters were a good pairing in their strengths and views, with action, suspense, romance, intrigue and laugh out loud moments plentiful in this book! A magnificent read that I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend!
Five Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC received for an honest review.
www.talkingbooksblog.net/?p=1255
Dory is on a mission to save her Captain Bart and almost brother Will from the Tower of London.
Ewan has one mission: to return the traitorous corpse to the King. But along the way he sees Dory in distress and leaps to her protection, which starts a series of events that neither could have foretold.
The character interactions were intense and the way Ewan and Dory worked together to just survive the Kings court was exceptionally well written! Between the King, his advisor, the hanger ons, past enemies, along with the unexpected arrival of compatriots, and not forgetting Ewan's trusty stead Goath, the story just twists and turns in directions you couldn't imagine, with many challenges abound!
Tangled Hearts was the first book I've read by Heather McCollum and I was not disappointed.
The characters were a good pairing in their strengths and views, with action, suspense, romance, intrigue and laugh out loud moments plentiful in this book! A magnificent read that I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend!
Five Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC received for an honest review.
www.talkingbooksblog.net/?p=1255
February 5, 2014
Scot Ewan is on a mission for his clan, to bring the body of a traitor to the King in London, and return safe and sound. Along his way, his path crosses with Pandora, a woman bound to find her way to save her Captain from the Tower. That the corpse in Ewan´s custody happens to be her father, must be chance.
Historical Romance with smutty fluff, action and suspense. Twists and danger will keep you on your toes to the end.
Historical Romance with smutty fluff, action and suspense. Twists and danger will keep you on your toes to the end.
Read
October 7, 2018DNF at 35%. I tried to keep going after the hero had the thought that he deserved a kiss from the heroine because he saved her life out of the goodness of his heart, even though expecting physical affection in return negates the goodness of the heart argument. I tried to keep going after the hero told the heroine he wanted a list of every man who ever touched her so he could murder all of them. The heroine was so annoying and the plot was so ridiculous and her power set was so confusing, but I still tried to keep going! Then the hero griped at her because the king leered at her, and then he started trying to find a jacket to cover her up, because OBVIOUSLY the leering is her fault for not covering up her distracting woman parts and not the fault of the old lech who ogled her. And then I just gave up.
August 27, 2024
It was ok
January 9, 2014
A thrilling, action-filled romance, Tangled Hearts was a wonderful read. This book was great and I really enjoyed reading it.
Dory was a good heroine. She was very strong and extremely loyal to her loved ones. She was definitely not someone to mess with. My only problem with her was that she tended to be a bit shrewish and manipulative. But, overall, I liked her.
Ewan was wonderful. He was so sweet and utterly determined to protect his loved ones, even if it meant he was on the chopping block. I really liked him. He was perfect.
The romance was lovely. Dory and Ewan were wonderful together. I thought it was so sweet how, despite all the chaos going on and despite their previous expectations about what they wanted, they still managed to fall for each other. And, there was some hot chemistry between them. I thought they were a lovely couple.
My favorite part of this book was the truth about Dory's "pirate" family. I thought that was well done and I really liked that unexpected twist.
The plot was okay. For some reason, I couldn't get totally hooked. Even with all the action and thrills that I was interested in, I still wasn't completely drawn in. And, there were some parts that I skimmed because they started to drag. But, I was still kept interested. I enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was lovely, particularly with what happened in the epilogue.
Tangled Hearts was a lovely historical romance. It wasn't perfect, but I still enjoyed reading it and I ended up liking it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Dory was a good heroine. She was very strong and extremely loyal to her loved ones. She was definitely not someone to mess with. My only problem with her was that she tended to be a bit shrewish and manipulative. But, overall, I liked her.
Ewan was wonderful. He was so sweet and utterly determined to protect his loved ones, even if it meant he was on the chopping block. I really liked him. He was perfect.
The romance was lovely. Dory and Ewan were wonderful together. I thought it was so sweet how, despite all the chaos going on and despite their previous expectations about what they wanted, they still managed to fall for each other. And, there was some hot chemistry between them. I thought they were a lovely couple.
My favorite part of this book was the truth about Dory's "pirate" family. I thought that was well done and I really liked that unexpected twist.
The plot was okay. For some reason, I couldn't get totally hooked. Even with all the action and thrills that I was interested in, I still wasn't completely drawn in. And, there were some parts that I skimmed because they started to drag. But, I was still kept interested. I enjoyed the story and I thought the ending was lovely, particularly with what happened in the epilogue.
Tangled Hearts was a lovely historical romance. It wasn't perfect, but I still enjoyed reading it and I ended up liking it. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
February 5, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the Entangled Publishing and the author in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.
I think you will find that this is going to be a light-hearted tale. Heather writes a scene where Dory comes upon a woman who reminds me of a certain actress – but make sure to read to the very end. Our author puts in a “Historical Note” that explains more about this lady (but I still thought of the actress which gave me a great character reference while reading).
There may be times where you may not want to be reading on a full stomach or even eating. Our author’s descriptions are that realistic. You can just about picture everything that’s going on – as well as the smells. Heather has given our couple a grand adventure but it’s not all serious – it kept me laughing that’s for sure. I think that if you’ve never read any of her work before, this is the perfect introduction.
Heather gives her readers the perfect ending. And she continues the action almost to the very end. She is one of those authors that makes me enjoy a historical romance. She turns something that wasn’t very interesting when I was in school into a history lesson that I thoroughly enjoyed. This is a book that can be read as a stand-alone but I found that I wanted to know more about a couple of her characters. In order to do this, I will need to go back and read book one.
I think you will find that this is going to be a light-hearted tale. Heather writes a scene where Dory comes upon a woman who reminds me of a certain actress – but make sure to read to the very end. Our author puts in a “Historical Note” that explains more about this lady (but I still thought of the actress which gave me a great character reference while reading).
There may be times where you may not want to be reading on a full stomach or even eating. Our author’s descriptions are that realistic. You can just about picture everything that’s going on – as well as the smells. Heather has given our couple a grand adventure but it’s not all serious – it kept me laughing that’s for sure. I think that if you’ve never read any of her work before, this is the perfect introduction.
Heather gives her readers the perfect ending. And she continues the action almost to the very end. She is one of those authors that makes me enjoy a historical romance. She turns something that wasn’t very interesting when I was in school into a history lesson that I thoroughly enjoyed. This is a book that can be read as a stand-alone but I found that I wanted to know more about a couple of her characters. In order to do this, I will need to go back and read book one.
January 20, 2014
I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Pirates, magic, and Highlanders—OH MY! I loved this novel! I haven’t been able to say that in a long while, but really did enjoy this one. Set against the real of Henry VIII, this novel spoke to my not-so-hidden Anglophile like no other. The Tudor rule, fraught with intrigue, ambushes, and beheadings, is one of my favorite time periods, and when you mix that with a handsome Highland warrior and a witchy female pirate, well, how can it miss the mark? I enjoyed nearly every part of the novel.
The action is fast-paced, and the scenes are vividly painted. McCollum’s characters are endearing and realistic, and her descriptions of court life are as laced with danger as the actual viper-infested period must have been. I found myself as anxious as Dory herself, and let’s not forget about Ewan, the strapping, scarred Scots who swoops in to rescue his lady love (who rescues him right back before it’s all done). While the story may have been a bit less than 100% historical, the plot remains viable, and the love is steamy though a little sedate by many romance novel standards, but overall, a fine read.
4.5 stars
Pirates, magic, and Highlanders—OH MY! I loved this novel! I haven’t been able to say that in a long while, but really did enjoy this one. Set against the real of Henry VIII, this novel spoke to my not-so-hidden Anglophile like no other. The Tudor rule, fraught with intrigue, ambushes, and beheadings, is one of my favorite time periods, and when you mix that with a handsome Highland warrior and a witchy female pirate, well, how can it miss the mark? I enjoyed nearly every part of the novel.
The action is fast-paced, and the scenes are vividly painted. McCollum’s characters are endearing and realistic, and her descriptions of court life are as laced with danger as the actual viper-infested period must have been. I found myself as anxious as Dory herself, and let’s not forget about Ewan, the strapping, scarred Scots who swoops in to rescue his lady love (who rescues him right back before it’s all done). While the story may have been a bit less than 100% historical, the plot remains viable, and the love is steamy though a little sedate by many romance novel standards, but overall, a fine read.
4.5 stars
August 27, 2014
I was absolutely captivated by this book! A rich story with absolutely adorable characters: the heroine of the story is a badass, don't-mess-with-me kind of girl with a kind heart whom I love! The story draws you in from page one and takes on a literary ride chock full of danger, intrigue, humor, and romance. I highly recommend this book!
November 17, 2020
Tangled Hearts was a lot of fun, for the most part, but unfortunately I once again had to dock points for sexism, which unfortunately is beginning to be a recurring issue with Heather McCollum's books for me.
While I really enjoyed the pirate and the political intrigue elements, I thought it was strange, and a little jarring, that it was a completely different setting and style of plot than the first book in the series. In saying that, I really enjoyed the setting and the plot, I just found it a little jarring - it felt like an entirely different series, despite the few recurring characters. For the most part, I liked Dory and Ewan as main characters, and I definitely enjoyed them together. I thought that Tangled Hearts did much better than Captured Heart in terms of pacing, and the balance between the romance plot/outer plot was much better, although if you're not very familiar with Tudor history it's quite confusing.
There weren't as many major plot holes as in the first book, although there were a few with Margery - she was just used as a plot device, rather than a well developed character, and Dory and Ewan were terrible guardian/adult figures. And then she kind of just disappeared? Writing wise, were a couple of instances where the POV suddenly (and I'm assuming accidentally?) switched without warning (ie using my instead of his, switching characters), which was quite off putting/confusing while reading. I also thought the last line of the last chapter was so sickeningly sweet and really didn't fit the vibe of the rest of the book - I hate when romance novels put a disgustingly cheesy line at the end, it really leaves the book on a sour note for me.
Honestly, this would've been a 3.5/4 star read for me if it wasn't for the sexist elements - Ewan suggests he deserves a kiss because she tricked him, there was a bit too much of a focus on purity/virginity (and an instance where Ewan and Cromwell literally discuss rape so that she can't get an annulment, as if it's just a joke?), Ewan tells Dory that 'taunting men will only get you into trouble' (because yes, let's victim blame instead of holding men accountable for their actions), there was unnecessary slut shaming of prostitutes, not to mention the numerous insinuations that all women want to get married and have children (not to mention the suggestion that women can't raise children on their own?) - “The thought of her never wedding, raising someone else’s children without the help of a husband, twisted Ewan’s gut.” And let's not forget Dory clarifying that she's 'not in the habit of kissing women', which was unnecessary and came across as a bit homophobic.
It appears Heather McCollum has a recurring issue for me - I enjoy her writing style, but I have issues with sexism and plot holes in her book. Honestly, if she could fix these issues (especially the sexism, because I always have to dock points for that), her books would be at least one star higher for me. I enjoy the characters and the stories, for the most part, but the underlying sexism is just unnecessary and off putting.
While I really enjoyed the pirate and the political intrigue elements, I thought it was strange, and a little jarring, that it was a completely different setting and style of plot than the first book in the series. In saying that, I really enjoyed the setting and the plot, I just found it a little jarring - it felt like an entirely different series, despite the few recurring characters. For the most part, I liked Dory and Ewan as main characters, and I definitely enjoyed them together. I thought that Tangled Hearts did much better than Captured Heart in terms of pacing, and the balance between the romance plot/outer plot was much better, although if you're not very familiar with Tudor history it's quite confusing.
There weren't as many major plot holes as in the first book, although there were a few with Margery - she was just used as a plot device, rather than a well developed character, and Dory and Ewan were terrible guardian/adult figures. And then she kind of just disappeared? Writing wise, were a couple of instances where the POV suddenly (and I'm assuming accidentally?) switched without warning (ie using my instead of his, switching characters), which was quite off putting/confusing while reading. I also thought the last line of the last chapter was so sickeningly sweet and really didn't fit the vibe of the rest of the book - I hate when romance novels put a disgustingly cheesy line at the end, it really leaves the book on a sour note for me.
Honestly, this would've been a 3.5/4 star read for me if it wasn't for the sexist elements - Ewan suggests he deserves a kiss because she tricked him, there was a bit too much of a focus on purity/virginity (and an instance where Ewan and Cromwell literally discuss rape so that she can't get an annulment, as if it's just a joke?), Ewan tells Dory that 'taunting men will only get you into trouble' (because yes, let's victim blame instead of holding men accountable for their actions), there was unnecessary slut shaming of prostitutes, not to mention the numerous insinuations that all women want to get married and have children (not to mention the suggestion that women can't raise children on their own?) - “The thought of her never wedding, raising someone else’s children without the help of a husband, twisted Ewan’s gut.” And let's not forget Dory clarifying that she's 'not in the habit of kissing women', which was unnecessary and came across as a bit homophobic.
It appears Heather McCollum has a recurring issue for me - I enjoy her writing style, but I have issues with sexism and plot holes in her book. Honestly, if she could fix these issues (especially the sexism, because I always have to dock points for that), her books would be at least one star higher for me. I enjoy the characters and the stories, for the most part, but the underlying sexism is just unnecessary and off putting.
May 12, 2025
The plot drew me, but I stayed for the high seas adventure!
Tangled Hearts is a blend of magic, romance, and high-seas adventure that captivated me from the very first page. Pandora, a pirate raised on the open sea, is a heroine with unique magical and healing abilities. Her mission to rescue her surrogate father from the Tower of London leads her into a web of intrigue and danger. Ewan Brody, a formidable Scottish warrior, becomes her unexpected ally. Strong, honorable, and fiercely protective, Ewan's character adds depth and warmth to the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
🔥🔥 (2/5)
“Tell me what they did to ye.”
Her breath caught at the intensity in his gaze.
“Why?”
“So I know exactly how much pain to inflict on each bloody bastard as I slice them open for touching ye.”
The plot is rich with excitement—pirates battling at sea, a sinister child slavery ring, and the perilous politics of King Henry VIII's court. The romantic tension between Pandora and Ewan is palpable, with a few sensual love scenes that are tastefully written and add just the right amount of heat. The side characters are well-developed and contribute meaningfully to the story, making the world feel lived-in and real.
The story's pacing keeps you engaged, and the emotional stakes are high, making it hard to put the book down. This story is a must-read in the historical romance genre, offering a perfect mix of adventure, magic, and heartfelt romance.
Tangled Hearts is a blend of magic, romance, and high-seas adventure that captivated me from the very first page. Pandora, a pirate raised on the open sea, is a heroine with unique magical and healing abilities. Her mission to rescue her surrogate father from the Tower of London leads her into a web of intrigue and danger. Ewan Brody, a formidable Scottish warrior, becomes her unexpected ally. Strong, honorable, and fiercely protective, Ewan's character adds depth and warmth to the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
🔥🔥 (2/5)
“Tell me what they did to ye.”
Her breath caught at the intensity in his gaze.
“Why?”
“So I know exactly how much pain to inflict on each bloody bastard as I slice them open for touching ye.”
The plot is rich with excitement—pirates battling at sea, a sinister child slavery ring, and the perilous politics of King Henry VIII's court. The romantic tension between Pandora and Ewan is palpable, with a few sensual love scenes that are tastefully written and add just the right amount of heat. The side characters are well-developed and contribute meaningfully to the story, making the world feel lived-in and real.
The story's pacing keeps you engaged, and the emotional stakes are high, making it hard to put the book down. This story is a must-read in the historical romance genre, offering a perfect mix of adventure, magic, and heartfelt romance.
March 2, 2021
I am so enjoying this series and I sure wish I had Dory's powers:) This was quite a riveting story with strong characters and a plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Taking place in London, England when King Henry VIII was in power, visiting the royal court was not for the faint of heart!
Ewan is on a mission from Scotland to England and expects to return home quickly but when he meets Dory and ends up helping her, little does he know the trouble she brings him! As for Dory, she's also on a mission and needs the huge sexy Highlander to help her, even if she has to trick him and they have to pretend they're married!! With her magical powers for healing and turning the weather, it leads them on quite a few adventures. I also loved the humour throughout.
Well worth the read and I love the thought that not all pirates were bad, some were good:)
Ewan is on a mission from Scotland to England and expects to return home quickly but when he meets Dory and ends up helping her, little does he know the trouble she brings him! As for Dory, she's also on a mission and needs the huge sexy Highlander to help her, even if she has to trick him and they have to pretend they're married!! With her magical powers for healing and turning the weather, it leads them on quite a few adventures. I also loved the humour throughout.
Well worth the read and I love the thought that not all pirates were bad, some were good:)
July 22, 2025
A bit of everything thrown together: beautiful female pirate with magical abilities and mysterious origins, virile and heroic Highlander, plot against King Henry, child trafficking, a joust, imprisonment in the Tower of London… and pretty soon you have pirates and Highlanders joining forces against corrupt courtiers to solve a mystery and protect the king. Pandora and Ewan are intriguing characters whose bickering quickly builds an attraction that neither wants to admit. Lovely chemistry between two passionate but ill-suited people who can’t resist each other. Wonderful humor that made me chuckle and a few cliffhanger threats - overall an entertaining listen. And Tim Campbell again makes an otherwise mediocre book into a captivating story with his excellent narrating.
September 11, 2021
This book has everything! Magic! Pirates! Highlanders! The tower! Mystery! Feminism! Henry VIII! Successfully destroying and child slave trader and his business… but in an engaging way that makes everything feel more noble and important in that way that trusts the reader to understand the horror without preaching… and really passionate sweet and dorky love. This was the perfect romantic escape.
I love historical fiction like this that takes the time and place seriously, doesn’t change established facts, doesn’t make it overly rosy, but adds fun and intrigue. The magical realism doesn’t get overly fantastical and fits in without a ton of needless exposition. A delight.
I love historical fiction like this that takes the time and place seriously, doesn’t change established facts, doesn’t make it overly rosy, but adds fun and intrigue. The magical realism doesn’t get overly fantastical and fits in without a ton of needless exposition. A delight.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2023
As always, Tim Campbell's voice is top notch.
As for the plot, I really enjoyed it! That being said, in the last book, Ewan was very charming and diplomatic- he wasn't like that in this book. I almost wish he had been instead of frowning so much. I feel like it would've added to the dynamic.
I am so glad that in the end things were... settled down... with King Henry. I hope that means that he leaves them in peace. I also love that Dory took down the child molester pirate... I hope it was painful. The book said he screamed, so maybe it was. I'm hope the sweet little girl he captured, Charissa, recovers along with Steven. I can't wait to see what happens next.
As for the plot, I really enjoyed it! That being said, in the last book, Ewan was very charming and diplomatic- he wasn't like that in this book. I almost wish he had been instead of frowning so much. I feel like it would've added to the dynamic.
I am so glad that in the end things were... settled down... with King Henry. I hope that means that he leaves them in peace. I also love that Dory took down the child molester pirate... I hope it was painful. The book said he screamed, so maybe it was. I'm hope the sweet little girl he captured, Charissa, recovers along with Steven. I can't wait to see what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2018
This book was better then the first book in the series. I did not like this book, either. I only liked Dory. I don't understand why authors create a male character who is a lady's man and the female to be a virgin. That is so common and old and annoying. Also, while the guy manwhore, he gets all growly, angry, and territorial about the idea that the heroine may not be a virgin. ugh.... I hate reading about men like that. This was a small part of the book.
Other parts of the book was ok, i guess.
Other parts of the book was ok, i guess.
August 14, 2025
Full of intrigue!
A lot of places I left at the antics and the remarks between the two, Ewan & Dory. It's a well written whodunit. I had three guesses as to who the traitor was. Not the one that the book kept talking about, but the one that really mattered. And all three had roles in that disaster. It kept me guessing and wondering, it intrigued me! And had me laughing, and getting frustrated. Very suspenseful! At times I had to put it down just to get my heart to slow down, but I always picked it back up and finished it. I think you'll enjoy it!
A lot of places I left at the antics and the remarks between the two, Ewan & Dory. It's a well written whodunit. I had three guesses as to who the traitor was. Not the one that the book kept talking about, but the one that really mattered. And all three had roles in that disaster. It kept me guessing and wondering, it intrigued me! And had me laughing, and getting frustrated. Very suspenseful! At times I had to put it down just to get my heart to slow down, but I always picked it back up and finished it. I think you'll enjoy it!
September 22, 2021
Bewitching.
Ewan is sent to London to deliver the body of a traitor to the king. Dory is the daughter of the traitor even though she never met her father. Ewan and Dory meet along the road to London when Ewan rescues her from the fire when the village was planning to burn her for being a witch. They pretend to be married for safety reasons in the London court. The rest is brilliant. Suspense, intrigue, deception, pirates, conspiracy, and of course love.
Ewan is sent to London to deliver the body of a traitor to the king. Dory is the daughter of the traitor even though she never met her father. Ewan and Dory meet along the road to London when Ewan rescues her from the fire when the village was planning to burn her for being a witch. They pretend to be married for safety reasons in the London court. The rest is brilliant. Suspense, intrigue, deception, pirates, conspiracy, and of course love.
February 8, 2023
Ewan & Pandora
2.5 stars
Trigger: child sexual abuse and trafficking
Era: Reign of Henry VIII, Tudor
I probably won't continue with the series. I was glad to find something other than a "Regency" romance, but I'm not loving the paranormal/magic/healer/good witch aspect of these books.
I'd prefer a straight-up Tudor romance.
This one was also a little all over the place: good pirate, bad pirate, witch, Highlander...you get the idea. How about we pick one of these and run with it?
2.5 stars
Trigger: child sexual abuse and trafficking
Era: Reign of Henry VIII, Tudor
I probably won't continue with the series. I was glad to find something other than a "Regency" romance, but I'm not loving the paranormal/magic/healer/good witch aspect of these books.
I'd prefer a straight-up Tudor romance.
This one was also a little all over the place: good pirate, bad pirate, witch, Highlander...you get the idea. How about we pick one of these and run with it?
February 6, 2024
Ewan is on the way to visit King Henry to bring him the body of a traitor along with the proof of the traitor’s misdeeds. At one of their stops there is a notice about a witch and her trial. They end up rescuing the witch – who insists she had it under control. Pandora (Dorry) does have magic and has the same birthmark as Ewan’s sister-in-law. Having magic is just one of Dorry’s secrets. She manages to trick Ewan into pretending to be the husband. So many twists and turns!
June 16, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ewan & Pandora "Dori"
◦Being burned on a pier for witch craft
◦Fake Married
◦Pirates
◦Dead Bodies from the first book stinking up the place
◦Pretending to be fancy in court
◦Healing Powers
◦Prison Break
◦Attempted Poisoning
◦Jousting with the Enemy
◦False Imprisonment
◦Tornado Wielder
◦Slave Trading Ships (kids)
◦Orphan Pick-Pocket
◦The Claiming
◦The Big Lie
◦HEA
◦I listened to the 10 hour audiobook
◦Narration: Timothy Campbell
Ewan & Pandora "Dori"
◦Being burned on a pier for witch craft
◦Fake Married
◦Pirates
◦Dead Bodies from the first book stinking up the place
◦Pretending to be fancy in court
◦Healing Powers
◦Prison Break
◦Attempted Poisoning
◦Jousting with the Enemy
◦False Imprisonment
◦Tornado Wielder
◦Slave Trading Ships (kids)
◦Orphan Pick-Pocket
◦The Claiming
◦The Big Lie
◦HEA
◦I listened to the 10 hour audiobook
◦Narration: Timothy Campbell
October 24, 2017
A real Pandora's Box
Ewan Brody of the Scotland Highlands must deliver a traitor to the English crown. Doing so he discovers a first lass being tried ads a witch. Ewan helps her escape not realizing she is the perfect lady for him! He quickly discovers her many talents while in the midst of English Intrigue!!
Fantastic tale of love and intrigue!!
Ewan Brody of the Scotland Highlands must deliver a traitor to the English crown. Doing so he discovers a first lass being tried ads a witch. Ewan helps her escape not realizing she is the perfect lady for him! He quickly discovers her many talents while in the midst of English Intrigue!!
Fantastic tale of love and intrigue!!
November 4, 2017
Damn good read! Keep them coming girl. I finally found someone who knows how to bring an adventure in a book!!! By the way.. I found my Highlander living in Cali😎
Great book! Couldn't put it down..lol my husband wasn't happy that I gave so much attention to the book..more please😀
Great book! Couldn't put it down..lol my husband wasn't happy that I gave so much attention to the book..more please😀
February 28, 2023
Perfect intrigue and Love
This is a very great read from first page until the last page. Heather McCollum can make even me enjoy the English court, as long as there are Scots involved and some magic didn’t hurt either.
This is a very great read from first page until the last page. Heather McCollum can make even me enjoy the English court, as long as there are Scots involved and some magic didn’t hurt either.
October 28, 2017
I like Ewan but not sure I like all the scheming it felt it dragged a bit.
I'd like to see more on building Dory and Ewan relationship.
I'd like to see more on building Dory and Ewan relationship.
April 22, 2019
wow another great adventure.......................
September 13, 2020
Loved it!
Great characters and story! Descriptive and colorful. Didn't want to stop reading this book and hated to see it end.
Great characters and story! Descriptive and colorful. Didn't want to stop reading this book and hated to see it end.
February 9, 2021
Beautiful story...
Very well written...
Humour
Fight..
Magic..
Dedication..
Lies..
love..
A wonderful work...
Very well written...
Humour
Fight..
Magic..
Dedication..
Lies..
love..
A wonderful work...
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