Highland Breath

by Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple

She doesn't want to marry him. He doesn't want to marry at all! Can they find the happiness they each desire? Or will their yearning for one another consume them both? ♥

Historical Scottish Highlander romance at its most passionate!

Now that his brother is married, the MacDonalds believe their rakish second son, Maddock, should wed as well. The best choice? One of the three daughters of Laird Graham, an ally and Hammer of the Campbells. An alliance with his family will strengthen the MacDonald power in the Highlands, especially with the mysterious letter still missing.

Only, getting married is the last thing Maddock wants to do.

Fair, bookish Fiona Graham has been promised that she can choose her own husband when it's time to wed. Her father goes back on that promise, yet Fiona knows that any man worth his salt will choose her more stunning younger sister. Only that does not happen.

When she accidentally meets Maddock in the woods, they strike up a bargain benefits them both. Why not pretend to be betrothed, work together to find Fiona a more acceptable husband, then go their separate ways? It seems like such a sound plan.

But even the best laid plans can fail, which is what happens when Fiona and Maddock find they cannot keep their hands to themselves. How is this plan to work if they actually desire each other?

The temptation they feel cannot be contained, and their plan seems destined for failure, until a new suitor arrives with an old family agreement in hand and offers for Fiona. This suitor seems to be exactly what Fiona needs to break this fake betrothal.

Yet, this suitor is not all he seems, and Maddock can't let go of the woman he's come to love. Will they find themselves in each other's arms again, or will the conflict in the Highlands lay their love for each other to waste?

A steamy Highlander romance with bold heroes, strong heroines, and packed with passion and adventure. Discover Highland Breath and start this Outlander-styled romance today!

The novels in this series are each stand-alone stories and can be read individually in any order, if desired. These historical romances are set in Jacobite Scottish Highlands and do not shy away from steamy scenes, occasional archaic curses, and accurate portrayals of historical violence and life!

Genres: Scotland

217 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2023

About the author

I'd love to give you some free ebooks! Sign up here for my newsletter and receive three ebooks right away, and then newsletters with new releases, discounted, and free books!
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Michelle is an author, college writing professor, mother, and wife living on the west coast. Follow her socials here: https://linktr.ee/mddalrympleauthor

This author also writes as M.D. Dalrymple
and Strawberry Chase

Reviews

[Lady Nilambari Reads HR · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

I claimed an ARC from Booksprout. All opinions expressed below are my own.

Ratings -

Overall - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/ Storyline - 📖📖📖📖📖
Romance - 💖💖💖
Feels - 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth - 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension - ⚡️⚡️
Sensuality - 🔥🔥
No of Sex Scenes - 🍑🍑
Sex Scene Length - 🍆

- My first from this author and I liked her writing.
- The story was pretty decent with the mystery, the characters and the romance.
- It was funny, emotional and sweet, but needed more depth & steam.
- A well-rounded experience.

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love it when a rake is brought down to his knees by love! I thoroughly enjoyed Maddock and Fiona's story. Even though I sometimes had to shake my head at Maddock's antics, I knew his heart was in the right place. I also loved Fiona's character, she stays true to herself and her love for Maddock is unconditional.

Between the passion and the danger, as well as the search for the mysterious letter, this story kept my attention from start to finish. I now look forward to the next book in this series!!

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

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Highland Breath
Author: Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple
Series: Glen Coe Highlanders, Book #2
Release Date: January 26, 2023
Book Length: 279 pages
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags

The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry….Robert Burns (Scottish Poet)

Scotland, 17th century

This story centers around two people Fiona Graham and Maddock MacDonald that have to marry for political reasons and seem to be opposites in personalities as well. As Fiona is a bibliophile, who always has her head in a book, where Maddock is a libertine, where he always has his head up some woman’s gown! The one thing they do agree on is neither of them wants to marry each other. Fiona and her sister’s Ann and Jemma had always been promised that they could pick their own husbands. As they each wanted a love match but now due to their father’s ambitions that was another deceitful lie! Her father, Archie Graham is selling her like livestock, only to raise himself up in politics and connect himself to a powerful clan like the MacDonalds.

Archie Graham was a widow and only a bonnet laird, with a small bit of land. He only had a few tenant farmers to aid him with the livestock and to help plant small plots of vegetables, oats and flax. He had a governess to help with his daughters and stable hands taught them how to ride horses. Historically, the term bonnet laird is a petty landowner. They wore a bonnet like the non-landowning classes. Bonnet lairds filled a position in society below Lairds. The other reason is that Graham was the Hammer against the Campbell clan and how he made a reasonable living. Furthermore when the powerful Seamus MacDonald, Laird of Glenachulish offered his philandering son he jumped at the chance! It would raise his status and possibly make him more powerful and wealthier. Of course this did not sit well with Fiona or Maddock!

As this Laird’s son is of an important clan, though his rakish ambitions are well known all over the highlands! This is part of the reason his father wants his wild son tamed, settled and married to one woman. As the men of this clan are loyal, honorable and are not unfaithful to their wives, even Maddock knew that. It is also a time when politics were stirring with King James Stuart having been exiled to Ireland which is the start of the Jacobite rebellion and a missing letter that starts this off. When Maddock realized this highland beauty had no interest in him they formed a plan together. It was a fake betrothal to everyone else they were planning their wedding but as their wedding celebrations began it would give Maddock a chance to introduce Fiona to other gentlemen who would be visiting. The one problem is as he got to know his betrothed he felt jealousy and did not want any other man touching his Fiona!

Of course these two are planning to fool everyone with a fake betrothal where Maddock promised to find Fiona a loyal loving husband for her. Except he starts to not like this idea in the least since he has fallen in love with this bookish lass! Soon Fiona is starting to fall for this rogue and knows her heart will be broken. Plus she can’t marry a man where her future will be filled with an unfaithful husband who will definitely break her heart! On the political side of things will they locate this mysterious missing letter and red box? Do these star-crossed lovers even have a chance? Will this union be doomed before it even starts? Read and find out.

Again my go to author Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple pens another extraordinary read that just kept me turning the pages late into the night. I absolutely love when author’s weave true history with a fictional romance. As for the swoon-worthy hero even with all his faults, I couldn’t help but love him! Now any reader will be able to relate to the heroine, a lover of books, who wants to be loved and marry a loyal partner. That does not seem to be asking too much or is it? This is a book I highly recommend and I look forward to the next book in this fantastic series!

Pre-Order Link:

https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Breat...

Disclaimer: I received an advance readers copy and agreed to do an honest, fair, review and blog through Booksprout. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.

[Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple]

Do you love Outlander? Is steamy Highlander romance what you are looking for?
The grab this fun, passionate, Shakespeare-inspired romance today!



“Ye deserve a man of strong repute and solid morals. But that does no’ mean I want ye any less.”
Fiona blinked rapidly, trying to control her breathing along with her thoughts.
Did he not realize he did have strong morals, just by admitting she deserved better? Just by stopping him before their kissing went any further?

Start Highland Breath today!

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always fun when two people who think that they can beat the system get caught in a trap of their own making. Maddock’s father and Fiona’s father both want their children to marry in order to form a strong alliance. Maddock, who has a well deserved reputation as a rake, does not wish to marry, and Fiona’s father has always promised her that she could choose her own husband. Both feeling betrayed by their parents, Fiona and Maddock conspire to have a fake betrothal while he helps her find a man more suitable to her taste. What could go wrong? Lots! Maddock is a sigh worthy hero, and Fiona is an underestimated delight. Underlying this ‘romance’ is the search for a mysterious letter that could have significant royal ramifications. Multiple tensions hum throughout this tale, keeping the reader engaged and on edge. Weapons are drawn, kisses are steamy, hearts are broken and there are a few twists and surprises. Most enjoyable!.

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

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a steamy, Highland Romance, with strong, heroines and hot bold heroes with enough passion and adventure, to keep my interest from beginning to end. I loved Maddock and Fiona their story was exciting romantic beautiful and steamy.

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

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the way Maddock and Fiona met in this book, aa well as the fun Maddock’s personality brings to the story. The siblings also add to the entertainment. An all-around enjoyable read.

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

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of the rake (Maddock) who falls in love with his fake betrothed Fiona. His father is tired of his rakish ways and wants to him to marry so he chose Fiona and they agree to a fake betrothal and along the way they both fall in love with each other.

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

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm jumping in the series without reading the first one, although the plot is a continuation from the previous book, it was easy enough to get caught up but it was so well written that I'm going to read the first book of the series and get myself caught up in time for the next one.

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

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Engaging Action Packed Read!

Maddock the rake of the MacDonald clan is unaware that his rakish days are numbered when he is told by his father that he must choose one of the daughters from the Graham household.

Meeting Fiona they devise a plan to become engaged to put off both sets of parents and to give each other time to get out of the situation but on the way Maddock can’t resist Fiona and falls in love with her.

Fiona is perfect for him but Maddock has always had women falling at his feet so when another suitor turns up, Maddock has to up his game and prove to Fiona that he truly loves her!

If you like sexy highland men who are brought to their knees with love, this is a perfect read for you.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written Scottish Highland romance with strong characters in Maddox and Fiona. The author does a fantastic job developing her characters and storyline and takes you back to the day with her detailed and descriptive scenes. She pulled me in and kept me reading with all of the danger as well as the romance. I enjoyed reading their story and would recommend this book.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery, Betrothals, A Box
Maddock the rake of the village has just learned that he is to be betrothed, and he is not happy about it but does except his responsibility to the clan.
Fiona and her sister Anna thought they would be allowed to choose their husband but that has changed when their father announces they are to meet.
Maddock and he will choose which lass he will marry.
The two betrothed come up with a plan. Now you know this plan has many faults right from the start. Needless to say, we follow them through the pull of attraction into a passionate meeting or two, a mystery involving a letter in a box, enough ups and downs, it was like a rocky road to hell. Will they ever find a happy ever after? Read the explosive end to find out.
Amazing story that filled my time with lots of enjoyment. Wonderful sincere characters along 
with many heartfelt moments between Mad, Fiona and both of the families.
Mature Reader:
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the Glen Coe Highlander Romance series Maddox and Fiona's story is well written and is Scottish Highland romance with strong characters. the story held my interest throughout.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the second son of a powerful clan, Maddock moves through life, enjoying all that women can bring. Anything but marriage because what man is so crazy to be with only 1 woman? Until his father decides that he should marry one of the 3 daughters of another clan to make himself stronger against the English.
Fiona is Archie's oldest daughter. She and her sisters are promised that they can find their own men until Maddock arrives. He gives her a choice; pretend to be engaged so she can find a man she can love. Fiona goes along with his plan but soon falls for the rake that he is. Maddock finds himself wanting to keep Fiona as his wife, even if it means giving up his lavish life.

Beautiful, romantic, steamy and exciting story where a missing letter remains lost.

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

[Alonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first time I read a book like this and I really enjoyed it. The plot and the Scottish heritage was an amazing mix. I do know that some history was at play, but the twists with it really was entertainment and kept me engaged. The romance was top tier and I hope I can read more from this author.

[Dia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Story about the taming of the Scottish philanderer enamored with a bookish lass — a historical spin to the playboy-falling-for-the-nerd trope. The history part was based on actual people/events too, with extra note by the author at the end of the book, which I really appreciate. Maddock and Fiona's love achieved an HEA but the whereabout of the missing letter was still unknown and that mystery will continue in the next book in this series.

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

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I can see were the name of the story comes from. Excellent story. I enjoyed it very much. I do like the way Maddock describes the way she makes him feel. I received a complimentary review copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Beth Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.2⭐️ Historical romance with some heat

This was a good story. It was long & hard to get into at first. It took me a lot longer to read than it does to read most stories. I think part of that was because there were a lot of words used to make it “authentic-sounding” that were not words commonly used today & I had to look up what they meant, which made the story take longer to read. I did like reading how Maddock & Fiona fell in love, especially when neither of them wanted to get married to the other & had an agreement to get out of the betrothal. I was happy that we got a HEA. There are only a couple of spicy scenes, but those were done well and moved the story along.

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

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was entertaining and engaging story.
Romance in Highland with some drama included abduction, killing and mysterious Red Box.
Arrange marriage for political reasons turned to perfect relationship.

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

[tburbr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second installment of the series was well written and kept my attention thanks to the endearing characters. I can't wait to see what happens next.

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

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story; Fiona was the perfect amount of fiery spirit and Maddox’s was charming and adorable. Their romance was addictive and believable; you could feel the attraction they had for one another even though neither initially wanted to admit it. This tale was both fun and steamy with lovable characters and of course, a HEA!


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

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where's the letter, the question that needs an answer. Very well written , full of love, suspense, drama and just everything. Excellent story. The author puts a lot of info into this book, making each and every character come to life. The Hero and Heroine both make an agreement to fake getting marry so they both get what they want and yet they fall in love. Both come to realize that they really do want to be with each other and marry. Can not say enough about this book, makes you want more. A MUST READ. Would recommend to everyone.

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

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their first meeting was inauspicious. Then they made plans to thwart their parents’ plans for them. They didn’t account for their attraction to each other. So, all kinds of brouhaha arises. Steamy and enjoyable read.

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

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so happy to have discovered yet another wonderful new-to-me author! I love a Scottish historical romance and this one was well-written, with likeable characters, banter, emotion, steamy scenes and historically accurate to boot. It’s always a pleasure to see a real rake falling hard for a woman and Maddock was perfect this way! I loved Fiona and her love for Shakespeare and I appreciated the references to the Bard’s work. I look forward to reading other books from this author!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highland Breath is book 2 of the Glen Coe Highlander Romance series. Michelle is a master at writing relatable plots with characters you connect to all while pulling out all your emotions before leaving you with a fantastic HEA.

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

[Nessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fake highland romance was a delight and joy to read. It got me out of a reading funk, and I really enjoyed reading about a bookish female character finding her HEA.

Please note that I did receive an ARC of this book and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.