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Is age just a number?

Magnus Mackenzie hasn’t been to Dunbeath Castle in nearly three years. Eager to see the clan he fostered with and to visit with his half-sister, Siùsan, he welcomes a trip to visit the Sinclairs. Barely escaping a doomed betrothal, Magnus intends to put the near disaster behind him. He’s unprepared for the beautiful woman he meets just beyond the castle gates. Saoirse Sinclair is not the lass he remembers.

Is beauty only skin deep?

Saoirse Sinclair was fond of Magnus when she was a child. He was kind and fun loving, but the man who arrives to stay with her family stirs feelings in her that he never has before. Doubtful about their age difference, Saoirse’s family is less than supportive as the couple draws closer. But when an inexplicable illness threatens to steal Magnus from her, Saoirse is determined to use her healing skills to protect the man she loves and the future they plan together.

Can this unlikely couple prove everyone wrong?

Clan rivalry and failed alliances threaten to end their relationship when it’s barely begun. Determined to create a long life together, Magnus and Saoirse battle her family’s skepticism and an outside force that’s determined to prevent another Sinclair-Mackenzie bond.

If you love scorching romance that will sweep you away to the medieval Scottish Highlands, you’ll love Celeste Barclay’s newest installment to The Clan Sinclair Legacy.

Highland Jewel is the third installment in Celeste Barclay’s STEAMY spinoff from The Clan Sinclair and The Highland Ladies. This highly in demand new series takes readers back to where Celeste began with the next generation in The Clan Sinclair Legacy. This STEAMY collection will continue to prove that in the Sinclair family, the men are strong, and the women are fierce.

305 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 2, 2022

48 people are currently reading
136 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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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Julie - One Book More.
1,325 reviews238 followers
August 22, 2022
Highland Jewel is the third book in The Clan Sinclair Legacy, a historical romance series with dynamic characters and wonderful romances. The story follows Saoirse and Magnus as they reconnect and fall in love. What will they do when their age differences, their family, or the outside forces threaten to keep them apart?

Saoirse and Magnus are the protagonists in this story, and they are both layered and compelling characters. Saoirse is a healer for the clan, and Magnus is returning after several years away. I enjoyed their romance. They have a lovely connection and deep respect for each other, and I like how they see each other in a new light. Magnus and Saoirse are drawn to each other, and their devotion and chemistry are fantastic.

I didn’t really understand why the clan was so against this pairing. They’ve known Magnus for most of his life and already treat him like family, so their lack of support seems unfounded. Other obstacles stand in their way, including a threat on Magnus’s life, which makes him very ill. Magnus and Saoirse prove stronger than the obstacles that threaten to tear them apart as she works to save him, and they show the clan just how much they care for each other.

The story has a ton of characters and a lot of explanations of who they are, how they’re related and connected, and more. It does overwhelm the story at times, and I was a little confused since I didn’t read the books in the original series. That being said, many of the secondary characters are well-developed and interesting, and I like that the story delved into their feelings, relationships, and more. For those who did read the series, it will be nice to see how the couples and clan have grown and changed as years have passed.

There’s a bit of intrigue as well, and Magnus seems to be the target of some unusual threats. It’s interesting to see Magnus, Saoirse, and the rest of the clan try to figure out why Magnus is in danger and who is behind the deadly threats.

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Oliver Heber Books for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Mariana.
725 reviews83 followers
July 29, 2022
I was happy and grateful to receive an advance copy through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Celeste Barclay is a consistently good storyteller. I was introduced to her writing with the first book in the preceding series The Clan Sinclair at the beginning of the year. I immediately flew through the entire series and rated them all 4 starts. I also read the prior Legacy books in this next generation series. Although I have remained consistent with my 4 star ratings, I think this series is even better than the first. Each story is very unique, and I recommend them all if you like your HR on the erotic side. However, this can definitely be read as a standalone.

For any who have read the prior series, this was a story about Siùsan's half brother Magnus Mackenzie and Saoirse Sinclair, daughter of Alexander Sinclair and Brighde Kerr. He was about a dozen years older than she and about a dozen years younger than her parents. The age gap didn't bother me at all, nor did the fact that Saoirse looked up to Magnus in a familial way when she was a child and had no romantic interest in anyone. When the story began, they hadn't seen each other in about 6 years.

The reintroduction as adults immediately sparks attraction in both sides, but they took it slow and got to know each other better as friends. Saoirse was a lovely introverted character who was the healer of the village. She enjoyed figuring out the puzzles of sickness to help care for her patients. She was passive and did not speak up for herself. Magnus was her perfect partner. Like all of Barclays heroes, he was almost perfect - strong, handsome, passionate, protective, honorable - but most importantly, he gave Saoirse a boldness she didn't have without him. These two really got to know each other and appreciated so many qualities other than the physical. He had been celibate for about three years.

There was no lack of the spicy scenes expected from this author. There were also villains and adventure above and beyond the challenges of convincing her parents to approve of the marriage. The story was entertaining, and I look forward to reading the next one.
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,080 reviews131 followers
August 2, 2022
This author always weaves a delightful story and this is definately one to be read!

Magnus has just come out of a betrothal that did not end well, he is eager to visit the castle of the Sinclairs. Having fostered there when he was young, he could not believe the beautiful young woman Saoirse Sinclair had grown into!

Saoirse had been very fond of Magnus when she was young, but now those feelings turned into something else! Being a healer of the clan, her family was protective and felt him too old for her. But when he became ill, she was able to stay by his side.

A wonderful, romantic tale that will draw you right in!
Profile Image for Diana N..
627 reviews33 followers
August 5, 2022
I liked the romance and the overall plot in this book! The romance between Magnus and Saoirse was definitely steamy like many of the other Sinclairs.

The plot lines were well done in this book from the tension due to the age gap between Magnus and Saoirse, the illness/mystery, and brave battle. The women in this series are also always brave and come into their own.

The part I struggled a bit with was the crazy number of characters and trying to keep track of how everyone was related. I think that if I hadn't read previous books I really would have struggled. There is a family tree in the front of the book, but constantly referring to it would have distracted me too much.

I am liking this series so far and am curious what characters will have their own book next.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,565 reviews88 followers
July 26, 2022
Intensely romantic, and seasoned with suspense, I found myself being carried away by this novel as Magnus Mackenzie pays a visit to Dunbeath Castle, only to lose his heart and almost his life. The little girl Magnus used to watch over when she played with the junior family members has grown into a beautiful, albeit quiet and introspective young woman, who has become the Clan's healer. When it becomes obvious that Magnus' heart is involved, opposition arises from a number of quarters as family members determine to keep Saoirse safe from a warrior who is not only much older than her but has some unresolved issues in his life. Magnus is horrified to discover that the fallout from his lucky escape from a manipulative woman follows him to the Clan Sinclair's stronghold, creating problems and difficulties for the people he loves most. The plot comes to a surprising conclusion, but one in which Magnus and Saoirse find their place together. I received a copy of this well-written and beautiful romance as a gift through BookSprout and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Jaime.
1,804 reviews310 followers
August 11, 2022
Celeste Barclay has written another great story with characters that are easy to relate too and a plot that kept me entertained from beginning to end! Clan Sinclair is back in all its glory, a family full of stubborn yet sexy highland men - some things these guys get up to had me shaking my head. I have enjoyed this series and recommend the books when you are looking for a light, low angst, sexy romance.

Overall rating 3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts, opinions, and statements are my own and bias free. I am not being paid for the review🦄
Profile Image for Romancing the Duchess - Bethany.
275 reviews25 followers
November 7, 2022
The Review
Saoirse Sinclair grew up surrounded by the enormous Sinclair Clan. She is the eldest daughter of Alex Sinclair and is very shy and reserved. She keeps to herself as the healer for the clan. Magnus Mackenzie had the opposite upbringing, so when his sister married into the Sinclair family, he and his brother, Seamus, became foster kids to the clan as well. They spent their formative years with the clan and actually spent a lot of time looking after Saoirse and the younger children.

When Magnus comes to visit the Sinclair clan after six years and barely escaping a betrothal to a horrible woman, he is immediately taken back by Saoirse’s beauty and personality now that she is more woman than child. However, her family has a big problem with their change in relationship and the almost 15 year age difference. They sneak about seeing each other and try to show their families that they are serious about their feelings.

The real adventure begins when Magnus suddenly becomes sick and Saoirse must figure out what is wrong and take care of him. When it turns out to be poison, the clan must unravel the puzzle of who could be trying to kill Magnus!

Another great story from Celeste Barclay. Her stories read so smoothly, the romances so believable, and the adventures very exciting! I’ve yet to read a book of hers that I don’t just devour! And, bonus points, because I am ALWAYS sad when the story concludes!

I have yet to read the original Sinclair series, so I’m excited to dive in to those soon!

Tropes
Historical Romance, Medieval Era, Scotland, Gamma Hero, Highland Warrior Hero, Protective Hero, Possessive/Jealous Hero, Knife-Wielding Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Outdoor Steam, Bath/Shower Steam, Age Gap Romance, Forbidden Romance, Friends to Lovers, Abduction/Kidnapped, Mystery Romance, Nursed Back to Health, Suspene/Danger/Murder
Profile Image for Lisa C.
1,100 reviews22 followers
July 25, 2022
Mesmerizing. Magnus Mackenzie fostered with the Sinclairs when he was younger, and is pleased to return for a visit. Seeing Saoirse Sinclair all grown up is quite an eye-opener. Loved these two together - sensible yet passionate, thoughtful yet distracted, caring but leery. The family dynamics in this story is fantastic. Can be read as a standalone, as all the relationships are explained (including family tree).
Profile Image for Nicole.
1,253 reviews100 followers
October 26, 2022
It’s been three years since Magnus Mackenzie visited Dunbeath Castle to visit the Sinclairs, with whom he fostered, and his older half-sister, Siusan, who is their lady. He’s just narrowly managed to avoid a marriage that would have made him miserable and needs some time away from his role within his own clan to get over that trauma. He’s certainly not expecting his reaction when the beautiful woman he encounters outside the gates turns out to be Lady Saoirse Sinclair all grown up.

Saoirse had a fondness for Magnus when she was younger, enjoying his kindness and jovial nature. But the man who has just arrived for a visit stirs totally new feelings in her now that she’s older. Her family remain skeptical because of the age difference between them, causing them to be less than supportive of the couple’s growing feelings for one another. But when Magnus’ life is threatened by an illness Saoirse can’t identify, she calls on all her skills as a healer to save the man she loves and ensure they have a chance at the future they’ve planned.

I loved this book so much! It is rare for me lately, mostly since I’m always behind on arcs, to not want to put a book down simply because I’m enjoying the story, but that was very much the case here. I needed to know what happened next and didn’t want to stop reading. Magnus and Saoirse were perfect together and I loved that the conflict of the story was not between them but derived from other characters and circumstances. These two fought so hard to be together and it was impossible not to root for them. I found Saoirse’s introvert tendencies to be extremely relatable, as well as her inner backbone. She handled situations much the way I tend to, and I think that also helped draw me into the story and made me even more invested. Saoirse is what an independent heroine should be. She could clearly hold her own and take care of herself when necessary, but she also had no problems leaning on her husband when she needed him. She didn’t hesitate to stand up for herself and her relationship when her parents doubted their true feelings because of the age gap between them, and she was defensive of her man as well. Magnus’ backstory was so emotional and so well-handled, and I think so needed because this sort of thing just doesn’t get much attention (I won’t say more for fear of spoilers). These two seemed to have a true partnership, even if their relationship was forged relatively quickly, and I loved seeing them working together as a real team and presenting a united front to overcome all the challenges they faced. This is the sort of romance I most enjoy reading. It had plenty of steam, some suspense to keep my attention, main characters I loved, a supporting cast/family that was equally endearing, and an ending that gave me the warm fuzzies of satisfaction. In short, all the elements that are typically catnip for me. I can’t wait for the next story in this series now.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Profile Image for Janet.
5,193 reviews64 followers
August 2, 2022
Magnus Mackenzie hasn’t been to Dunbeath Castle in nearly three years. Eager to see the clan he fostered with and to visit with his half-sister, Siùsan, he welcomes a trip to visit the Sinclairs. Barely escaping a doomed betrothal, Magnus intends to put the near disaster behind him. He’s unprepared for the beautiful woman he meets just beyond the castle gates. Saoirse Sinclair is not the lass he remembers. Saoirse was fond of Magnus when she was a child but the man who arrives to stay with her family stirs feelings in her that he never has before. Saoirse’s family is less than supportive as the couple draws closer. But when an inexplicable illness threatens to steal Magnus from her, Saoirse is determined to use her healing skills to protect the man she loves and the future they plan together.
Whilst this is the third book in the series it’s very easily read on its own. I love that the author has created her own Highland world, which is a delightful mix of fact & fiction. The characters have depth & you either love them or hate them. I loved both Magnus & Saoirse who fell hard & fast for each other but their road to a HEA wasn’t easy with opposition, strange illnesses, betrayal but it did make for an engrossing read, which often had me on the edge of my seat – I loved it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for Kelsie Maxwell.
430 reviews85 followers
July 24, 2022
Highland Jewel by Celeste Barclay is book three in her The Clan Sinclair Legacy series. This series is a spinoff of Barclay’s The Clan Sinclair series.

Saoirse Sinclair has known Magnus Mackenzie all her life, but he seems different lately. The sweet little girl Magnus has known since he was a youth is no longer a little girl. Nothing has changed, but everything is different.

Celeste Barclay continues to use excellent characterization as a major feature. This novel is no exception. The continuity within this series and back to the original is superbly maintained. Extensive historical research has been done, though some literary license was taken by the author. The plot is intriguing, and the dialogue is vivid. I throughly enjoyed Highland Jewel. I give it 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to all readers of historical romance.

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Profile Image for Carole Burant.
1,277 reviews36 followers
July 13, 2022
The age gap between the hero and heroine didn't bother me at all, after all in that era it wasn't unusual for a young girl to marry a much older man. That's why it kind of surprised me that in this story it was such a problem for the hero, with only a dozen years between them. I can also understand why some readers, especially if they haven't read any of the other books, would find all the clans mentioned overwhelming. To me, it was like visiting old friends:)

Saoirse and Magnus have known each other forever, in fact he used to offer protection to her and the other bairns when she was a child. Now she's a grown woman and when Magnus comes to visit after being away for a few years, it's to find his attraction to her is fast becoming a huge problem. In the midst of this, someone is out to harm him and the quest is on to find out who!!

Celeste Barclay knows how to weave a riveting story and this one is no exception. I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Jill booksandescape.
646 reviews51 followers
August 12, 2022
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.

Highland Jewel by Celeste Barclay is the third book of the Clan Sinclair Legacy. Magnus Mackenzie is eager to return to Dunbeath Castle to see his half-sister Siùsan after nearly three years. He is completely unprepared for running into Saoirse Sinclair, who has done quite a bit of growing up. Saoirse and Magnus find themselves feeling for each other in a way they never have before. Saoirse’s family doesn’t agree with their relationship because of the age gap.

There was definitely a lot going on in this book. The main plot was the relationship between Magnus and Saoirse, which I enjoyed the most. There was clan drama and opposition. I liked how determined Saoirse was to help Magnus recover, and how determined they were to prove their love was real.
256 reviews4 followers
July 22, 2022
Once again, Celeste has done it. Back with the Sinclairs, we follow Saoirse and Magnus Org, whom we have previously met in His Highland Prize when he was just 12. I love the fact that we get to see characters evolve through different books and I am absolutely delighted to be back into that universe Celeste created with much attention to details. Saoirse and Magnus have known themselves their whole lives, but Sinclairs being Sinclairs, they are extremely protective of their daughter. This will make the path to their HEA not the easiest one. I certainly enjoyed watching Saoirse become the steadfast woman she was meant to be. I recognized Magnus’s gentle soul from the previous book, but with a determination that was taught to him while he was fostering with Liam. The plot is complex and quite unpredictable. I especially appreciated the fact that we got to see pretty much everyone in the Sinclair clan, since I truly love this family. Will read again, for sure!

I received an advanced copy of this book and I am leaving my review freely.
Profile Image for Nanna.
1,225 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2022
There is much to love about this book. There are a lot of books in the Clan Sinclair series, this is a new series about the children of the original series. All the books can be read as standalone but it's nice to know of the history of the family and couples. For me this book was live visiting old friends and family.
Magnus has had a hard three years and has come to Castle Dunbeath to rest and more importantly to see his half-sister Siusan. She has been like a mother to him and his brother Seamus and they missed her a lot. They fostered here and always felt like family. When he arrives, he sees the most beautiful women picking flowers and is shocked by how he is instantaneously aroused by her. Then he is more shocked when he sees she is the daughter of the man he trained with. She had been just a young Lady when he left but not anymore. Saoirse remembers Magnus as a young man who use to watch over her and the other children who was kind and fun loving. He is handsome as sin, big and strong men now and makes her feels things she is sure she shouldn't.
There is so much going on in this story, one is the age difference between Magnus and Saoirse which I didn't understand, yes, he is older than her by thirteen years but during this time period that is not a lot. Yet it causes a lot of ups and downs in the story with her parents as they become closer.
Magnus had a broken betrothal before coming to see his sister and is still upset with what happen.
As He and Saoirse deal with their feeling there is a new mystery as to why Magnus gets deadly sick.
As the clan healer Saoirse it is up to her to figure out why. Their are outside evil forces that make
lots of intrigue and surprises you will not see coming. Lots of twist and turns, fights, conflicts and secrets till everything is worked out. Once you start this book you will not be able to put it down.
It will have you shouting out loud, crying, laughing and lots and lots of sighs so best to read it alone
so, you don't embarrass those around you or your self. This is a steamy story for those who like to know. I hope there will be more in this series. Grab a copy and sit back to be lost to the world around you. I received and Arc from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
440 reviews2 followers
July 16, 2022
Saoirse has been content with her life but as soon as she sees Magnus for the first time in years she knew he life was going to be changed. Magnus was in her home when she was a little girl and she always loved having him around to play with. She never thought that seeing him as an adult would affect her in such a way but it sure has made her notice him. Magnus spots Saorise in a field and instantly knows she is his. Saoirse’s family is pushing against them being together all because they don’t want to loose their baby girl. While Magnus is sneaking around with Saoirse he starts to be sick and Saoirse being a healer is determined to save him and figure out what is going on. Will they be able to determine who is trying to kill Magus and sway her family to let her marry him? I was given an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
3,147 reviews25 followers
August 2, 2022
Another amazing Sinclair story!

Celeste Barclay is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors for medieval Highlander romances. The characters are vibrantly portrayed, the tension is palpable, and the action is intense. Filled with themes of duty, honor, and justice, these stories are thoroughly captivating and left me with such a huge book hangover. The author's valuable preface highlights the incredible attention to detail as well as the meticulous research.

Saoirse is 22 when Magnus, now 35, returns to visit his sister, who is her aunt by marriage. It's been three years since Magnus was there, and in that time Saoirse has really come into her own as the clan's healer. She and Magnus quickly realize that despite having known each other for more than two decades, there is now an attraction between them that cannot be denied.

At first, it appears that the age gap is going to be the main conflict, and I loved how the characters got to the root of her parents' opposition in such a loving and respectful way. But all is not smooth sailing after that, because there's a bit of unpleasantness that Magnus recently left behind that has followed him. Someone is trying to kill him, and I loved how the author teased out this mystery and involved all the neighboring clans - allies and foes and even some who were both.

The romance is charming and so very satisfying. Magnus is every woman's dream - possessive, protective, honorable, and valiant. He truly treasured everything about her, and it was very romantic to see how they took care of each other.

Saoirse wasn't completely shy anymore, either. I loved watching her stand up to anyone and everyone who stood against her and Magnus. She has just enough of her mother's spirit to get the job done, and I adored her for it.

These two get the sweetest of HEAs, and I absolutely loved the many-years-later epilogue. I had such a hard time coming back to 2022 when I finished this book. I'm keeping all these books on my To Reread shelf so I can go back there as often as I wish. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Jordan.
254 reviews9 followers
July 11, 2022
Oof, I really wanted to like this book. I've read a few other Celeste Barclay novels and have had varying emotions when it came to them, but this one was definitely at the lower end of the spectrum. From the jump, the summary even made clear that this is an age gap romance, which... great. Normally, those are really interesting, but this one has the unfortunate quirk of consistently having character repeat that Magnus "isn't technically her uncle" which routinely takes you out of the story because any sort of clarification needed on that point just feels gross, and then reminding the reader that Magnus and Saoirse have known each other her whole life and he has watched her grow up... again, gross.

The actual age gap itself doesn't really factor in, he's thirteen years older than her, and the book involves ancient Scotland, so it's hardly like that would be an age gap to raise eyebrows, especially since Saoirse is twenty-three and he's thirty-five. In that era, it wouldn't be much to take note of. But the entire situation around the age gap is what really doesn't work.

On top of this, the characters just seem to fall in love instantly and there's little attention paid to the trauma that Magnus is recovering from or their changing feelings for each other. If more time had been spent developing their relationship and dynamic with each other this might have made the book work better, instead of having the characters run off on a battle that seems like a bit of an afterthought. Honestly, by the end there are just so many different clans involved and everyone is related to each other that the motivation behind all of it feels a little confused.

ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,106 reviews19 followers
July 24, 2022
Clans, Dungeons, Family First:
This is an all-encompassing intense story that doesn't let you go until the very end.
This author knows how to capture the essence of a thrilling highland romance story.
This story has a huge cast of characters, an extremely intriguing plot with an emotionally
passionate love story that captured my heart. A few heartfelt moments had me shed a tear.
The story is filled with every situation you could possibly want in a romance story. 
A horrible mystery to solve, clan feuds, battles, sabotage, revealing confessions, along
with a terrifying capture. High level of intensity, passion, betrayals, and more.
Main plot:
Magnus journeyed to Castle Dunbenth after being gone many years. Upon arrival the first
person to greet him is Saoirse. Taking instant notice of how much she has changed into
a beautiful woman. Instant attraction floods his senses, and our romance takes off from there.
A rough start for Magnus and Saoirse when her family objects to their romance due to the
age difference between them. We follow them as they gain the families trust and take charge
of their future together.
Adulty Advisory:
Heat Level: 4-5
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Clan Sinclair Legacy:
1. Highland Lion 5 Star
2. Highland Bear 5 Star
3. Highland Jewel 5 Star 
4. Highland Rose: Coming
Profile Image for Nathathida Atirekasâra.
1,231 reviews7 followers
August 1, 2022
Óg and Saoirse have known each other like forever because Óg is a brother of Saoirse's aunt-in-law and the Sinclairs has adopted both Óg and his older brother to their family after his sister married into the clan. So the story might have a sense of forbidden if you consider Óg as one of her brother. I think Barclay knows about this problem because even if they are attracted to each other, they don't act on it as much as all previous couples of Barclay's books did. That's why I tell you it's a slow burn. But don't worry, even if the story leans toward sweet encounters, it's still full of chemistry between the couple and has steamy encounters which is one of series' traits I love.

Aside from their forbidden, the story's full of suspense and actions just like another books in the series and makes me wonder how Barclay's brain works because she involves so many clans in it but still makes it intriguing and interesting.

In conclusion, Highland Jewel is a slow burn, age-gap highland historical romance with a lot of pressure between family members and their rivals. I enjoy reading it and love to see Saoirse finally comes out of her shell.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
55 reviews
July 13, 2022
I look forward to each installment in this series and find it remarkable that the author is able to produce each story so quickly. The stories in this series are each fresh unlike the previous series, which became redundant. This story involves a hero and heroine who have known each other for most of their lives--no instalove here and discover their feelings for each other. They do not live in easy times and have to deal with clan politics and power struggles. And they must face the obstacles that threaten them.

Don't let the age gap and sketchy familial ties put you off. This was a great read! I loved seeing the characters from the other series. I only wish that the author mentioned the family ties/backstories of the other couples less. At one point, the heroine says something about it being able to keep up with all of them, and I was like yes, girl! While a little description helps new readers, there was too much and could be overwhelming. Having read the other characters' stories, I still found myself confused. It bogged down and otherwise engaging story.

I received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
353 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2022
⭐💕⭐💕⭐💕⭐💕⭐💕⭐💕

Highland jewel

This book is a must read.
It is book 3.
In the clan Sinclair series.

A Historical romance set in Scotland during the days of castles and handsome Scots living there.


The book is awesome
I was sitting on the edge of my seat, it was exciting, wonderfully written, dangerous, and so much happened as others within the castle and clan sought to arrange other people's lives to fit their own agenda.

Saoirse was mighty fond of her families foster child when she was just a little girl.

Magnus was by then a young man training to be a soldier for his clan.

Time passes by as Saoirse grows up, and learns the skills required of a Highland woman
Saoirse is beautiful,strong, intelligent, determined, to find her true love, making him her own.

This really is a wonderful story.

I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this book and this author,
Celeste Barclay to you.

Personally I prefer to read books in the order the author publishes them.
However this book can be read as a stand alone if you prefer.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,193 reviews22 followers
August 16, 2022
This is the third novel of the intriguing and delightful The Clan Sinclair series. Like the others, this book captivated me and I was immediately pulled into the story, keeping me immersed and engaged till the end. After escaping a doomed betrothal, Magnus travels back to the clan he fostered with and to his half sister. Saoirse, the little girl he remembers from his earlier days with the clan, is no longer little and has grown into a beautiful young woman. Speaking of young, there is quite an age gap between the two, but that doesn't stop the feelings they are developing for each other. Magnus loses his heart to Saoirse, but he may lose more than that when her disapproving family try to discourage their union. The plot thickens when the effect of his escaped betrothal follows him to his clan home. The storyline had me glued till the end, anxious to find out how the story ends.
This was an entertaining and well-written story with strong characters. The chemistry between the characters was great, and I enjoyed following their story.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,463 reviews28 followers
July 20, 2023
I have not read these in order but will definitely go back!
This story with Saoirse and Magnus Aka OG as he is named after another!
Magnus is at least 13 years older than Saoirse and knew her as a wean or babe!
She has blossomed into a beautiful healer and they both sense their relationship has changed,
But there is much resistance from Alex Saoirse father and her mother Brighde!
Magnus fostered with their family so no one can really understand why the hostility!
Saoirse is the first daughter interested in marriage and of course no one wants the oldest to leave because it’s only a matter of time the others will follow!
But someone wants Magnus dead he keeps getting ill and no one else does!
At one point Saoirse despairs he will die before she can determine the source!
One thing you don’t mess with is a Highlander in love! They will go to war to save their women and the women their men!
Can these two have a HEA? If Magnus can get well and stay well he has to find the woman who has stolen his heart and made him long for a family and home! Get your tissues out because no one loves a woman like a Highlander! Bravo
Profile Image for Jayne Butcher.
1,349 reviews15 followers
July 31, 2022
This is such a good series! This is a fast paced tale with deceit, action, mystery and steam. Feathers get ruffled, revenge is sought, lies are told, and love prevails. You will find yourself shaking your head, sitting on the edge of your seat, and sighing over romantic and sweet moments. This story strikes me as bringing more attention than usual to the multitide of familial connections. The relationships are so interwoven and convoluted, and the author is kind enough to explain them throughout the story, but I have decided I need to make my own relationship chart in order to keep everyone straight. That being said, you do not need to read the other books in the series (although you will probably want to after reading this story) in order to enjoy this one. It is captivating and vey difficult to put down. Loved it!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
579 reviews3 followers
July 31, 2022
"Highland Jewel" is the third book in the Sinclair Legacy. One thing about this series is that it can seem daunting to keep all of the Clans straight. Celeste Barclay does a wonderful job at the beginning of each book ensuring that the Clan connections are defined.

I continue to enjoy this series. The budding relationship between Magnus and Saoirse is complicated by his relationship with the Sinclair's and the age difference between him and Saoirse. The story is well written and keeps a good pace. There is mystery action, and steam. If you have read the original Sinclair series as well as the Highland Ladies series you will see and hear about a lot of familiar characters. One thing I love about generational series' is seeing how the characters grow and change over time. I am looking forward to the next installment in this series.

I received an advanced copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shannon Patterson.
927 reviews9 followers
August 5, 2022
As always I'm blown away by Celeste Barclay's attention to detail and the way she weaves together all her stories. Highland Jewel is the third book in The Clan Sinclair Legacy series, readers would benefit from reading these books in order due to how interconnected they are. The romance does work as a stand-alone however there are details casual readers might not understand and certain relations to do with the side plot.

This is a bit of a second chance romance as Saoirse has known Magnus her entire life, she's always liked him, but now that they're grown she sees him in a new light. I loved watching how their relationship evolved. This is a great addition to the series.

As the warnings say (if you read the description), there are some very steamy scenes, so be prepared for them or skim past them if you prefer. Their passion is more than just physical and well worth diving into.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
124 reviews
August 5, 2022
Highland Jewel

I love reading Celeste Barclay’s work. It is so descriptive and very beautiful. This story is about Magnus and Saoirse it tells of their meeting again after not seeing each other for 3 years. How Saoirse had changed. Grown up, altered, becoming a beautiful girl. She was now the clans healer and did excellent work. He fell for her and she fell for him, but her parents didn’t agree with it.. then Magnus became very poorly. Someone had tried to murder him with poison. Saoirse now had to solve the puzzle of what had happened to him. The book was historical, picturesque, told of the beauty of the home and country areas. Once I started it, I did not want to put it down. Everything was described so beautifully, how people acted in this generation.. I felt as if I could actually see it. Well done Miss Barclay, it was an excellent read.
1,000 reviews6 followers
August 13, 2022
A new generation of Sinclairs.

While this does work as a standalone, I know that I enjoyed it so much more because I've read the entire series from the beginning. While this has a great refresher of how the families are related, I love that I have the backstory of all of them. In this one, we meet Magnus, fresh off a broken betrothal who is dumbstruck by the beautiful woman he sees on his way to visit his half sister. Saiorse has become a beautiful woman but she is surprised by how attracted she is to this older man. But there are forces against them and it will take them working together to not only overcome her family's objections (although I had some trouble with them taking exception to the age difference considering the time the story is set in) and outside forces that they don't realize have taken an interest. True love, danger and suspense in this fast paced read. Likeable characters that you'll root for.
Profile Image for Naomi Bell.
325 reviews17 followers
July 26, 2022
Highland Jewel is the third book in Celeste Barclay’s The Clan Sinclair Legacy. As a fan of The Clan Sinclair and The Highland Ladies, this series features the next generation of Highland clans that include fierce warriors and equally strong woman. This story tells the tale of Magnus Mackenzie, foster child to the Sinclairs, who returns a grown man after years of being away with his own clan. Upon return, he becomes enamored with Saoirse Sinclair, but there are obstacles to their union. The chemistry between all the couples in this series sizzles and their devotion to each other is remarkable. The complicated clan politics made following who’s who a chore, but the endearing characters and exciting plot line made it a worthwhile read. I look forward to the next in the series.
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