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Princess of the Highlands #2
Urram - Rekindled Hope
A CRY FOR VALOUR
Five years since the last blood heir to the Scottish throne was imprisoned by Danish invaders, death her only prospect.
Two since the Lowlanders rescued their princess while failing to free their country, waging a winter’s war.
One since the princess went into hiding and the Scots sent envoys to Cymru, hoping to secure aid against their common enemies.
Her country in ruins, her fighting men few, Fiona McCurragh nonetheless finds courage as the Lowlanders return from Cymru.
As winter thaws into spring, the Danes renew their hunt for the Scottish princess, nearly discovering her and the Scots’ newfound Cymreig allies. The Scots, forced to play their hand, retaliate by launching their third war against their invaders. Yet Fiona McCurragh and the elder son of Chieftain McCladden soon realise that not all battles are won with men and spears; some are of the heart.
In an unforeseen act of treachery, Fiona is captured and held prisoner at Caerloch Castle, awaiting torture and execution. Meanwhile, the Lowlanders and the Cymry find themselves faced by Lady Nuith’s innumerable hosts and beyond the reach of the silent Highlanders. Torn between surrender or death, honouring their oaths may be the Scots' final defence.
Five years since the last blood heir to the Scottish throne was imprisoned by Danish invaders, death her only prospect.
Two since the Lowlanders rescued their princess while failing to free their country, waging a winter’s war.
One since the princess went into hiding and the Scots sent envoys to Cymru, hoping to secure aid against their common enemies.
Her country in ruins, her fighting men few, Fiona McCurragh nonetheless finds courage as the Lowlanders return from Cymru.
As winter thaws into spring, the Danes renew their hunt for the Scottish princess, nearly discovering her and the Scots’ newfound Cymreig allies. The Scots, forced to play their hand, retaliate by launching their third war against their invaders. Yet Fiona McCurragh and the elder son of Chieftain McCladden soon realise that not all battles are won with men and spears; some are of the heart.
In an unforeseen act of treachery, Fiona is captured and held prisoner at Caerloch Castle, awaiting torture and execution. Meanwhile, the Lowlanders and the Cymry find themselves faced by Lady Nuith’s innumerable hosts and beyond the reach of the silent Highlanders. Torn between surrender or death, honouring their oaths may be the Scots' final defence.
372 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2024
67 people want to read
About the author
Cheyenne van Langevelde
5 books156 followersCheyenne van Langevelde is an author and musician whose greatest passion is weaving tales through story and song. When not struggling to attempt the most metaphorical prose, she enjoys composing and recording soundtrack pieces for books, practicing calligraphy and Irish dance, and studying the Welsh language. She occasionally emerges into the real world to restock her chocolate supply, of which she hoards like a dragon would his gold.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 7, 2024
What was that ending?? Cheyenne knows how to make her readers want book three. This was a really good continuation to this series. I was invested from the start. I really enjoyed the rich writing. The last quarter of this book was especially strong. That's when the stakes seemed to get even higher. I'm really excited to see how this series ends.
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April 22, 2023beta-read 💛
April 28, 2024
This book was beyond amazing! I fell in love with the first book and now this one pulled me in further.
What a masterfully crafted story. I felt as if I were really there in ancient Scotland. Experiencing each twist and turn with its colourful and very real characters. It’s themes of love and hope amidst the darkening clouds of despair ringing clear. Though night falls the sun always will rise in the morning. Even if the morn feels long in coming.
That ending absolutely wrecked me and I impatiently await the next book!
(I received an ARC copy from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
What a masterfully crafted story. I felt as if I were really there in ancient Scotland. Experiencing each twist and turn with its colourful and very real characters. It’s themes of love and hope amidst the darkening clouds of despair ringing clear. Though night falls the sun always will rise in the morning. Even if the morn feels long in coming.
That ending absolutely wrecked me and I impatiently await the next book!
(I received an ARC copy from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
March 17, 2024
This is a book I have waited to read for 2 years, and it did not disappoint! It took me on an emotional roller coaster, and there were several moments where I found myself yelling, “just kiss her already!” Cheyenne’s talent with words is on the same level as several well loved authors. A perfect combination of historical fantasy and romance, this is a book you absolutely do not want to miss out on. Urram: Rekindled Hope captivated me from the first page and the ending absolutely wrecked me and has me looking forward to book 3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2024
I put off this review for a long time because I wanted to do the book justice. Unfortunately, it seems my creative brain has a very limited capacity in the summertime, so I can only afford to wax poetic while writing my own stories, not book reviews.
But speaking of poetry, there is beautiful prose throughout Urram - Rekindled Hope, just as there was in the first book of the series. I absolutely love the way the author uses setting and description to make her scenes come alive.
The storyline felt slower than book one, but since the themes were so focused on matters of the heart, the gentler pace seemed fitting. That doesn’t mean there wasn’t any tension or excitement. One twist in particular took me totally by surprise!
As for the characters, Malcolm is still my favorite. (Of course he is! How could it be anybody else?) But the growth of both Fiona and Angus was a pleasure to read. They were so cute together! (Which is a huge compliment coming from this unromantic reader.) And there were some new characters that were really fun to get to know. ☺️
However…
That ending…
WAS
NOT
OK!
But speaking of poetry, there is beautiful prose throughout Urram - Rekindled Hope, just as there was in the first book of the series. I absolutely love the way the author uses setting and description to make her scenes come alive.
The storyline felt slower than book one, but since the themes were so focused on matters of the heart, the gentler pace seemed fitting. That doesn’t mean there wasn’t any tension or excitement. One twist in particular took me totally by surprise!
As for the characters, Malcolm is still my favorite. (Of course he is! How could it be anybody else?) But the growth of both Fiona and Angus was a pleasure to read. They were so cute together! (Which is a huge compliment coming from this unromantic reader.) And there were some new characters that were really fun to get to know. ☺️
However…
That ending…
WAS
NOT
OK!
June 29, 2024
I’m supposed to review this?? I don’t even have words. I’m barely sure what my feelings are. And I’m pretty sure keyboard smashing and 34726 exclamation points don’t constitute a coherent review. But okay, let’s try.
Sequels must almost always rise or fall by the comparison with the first book, and this one particularly because it’s a continuation of the first book, set 1-2 years after. So, first, the cover… it’s perfect and meshes so well with the first book. And the title fits in SO perfectly. The aesthetic is excellent, and the writing style is just as amazing as ever. I absolutely LOVED the deep themes of freedom and hope and light and courage. I just know this would have meant so much to me when I was in the throes of depression, and even now, when fear has me paralyzed, there were so many quotes that spoke straight to my soul. All this—5/5 continuation.
And then the characters. There’s a few subtractions and additions… notably, Cynfael, Elspeth, and Dafydd. Cynfael was not a replacement to Rhiada, yet he filled that place so well. I absolutely love that wise, quiet, noble young harper-king and cannot wait to see his story continued in book 3. Elspeth was an unexpected addition but I loved it—it fit SO well into the story’s themes and plot—and I’m cheering for her romance as hard as I can. And Dafydd, well, we had a brief time together but he still meant a lot. There’s some new villains and some new allies—I really can’t wait to meet the Highland chiefs—and the princeling is a fascinating new angle to the whole story. As for the old characters, they’re delightfully themselves, except Donald kinda broke my heart towards the end. Continuation of characters? 5/5.
Okay, and there’s the romance. Of course I shipped Fiangus after the first book, but I didn’t ship hard, because it seemed still pretty far in the future. Well, the romance RAMPED up here, and it was adorable. I don’t love this kind of romance as a rule… all the pining and yearning and inability (or incapacity) to declare it… but it worked out well in the plot and I love the characters enough to put up with their foolishness. ;) I also really appreciated how the relationship between Fiona and Angus doesn’t only focus on their romance but also on their guard/queen relationship and just plain friendship. So, romance… 4/5, but I know most people would consider it a solid 5/5.
And finally we get to the plot. It’s different from the first book, of course—and yet it has enough similarities to be a little familiar, which is a thing I personally REALLY appreciate. There was plenty of action and suspense, especially towards the end—and yet also plenty of thinking and strategizing. The book was an excellent middle: continued the story, but didn’t wrap up much until the next book. The cliffhanger took me WAY out, and I can’t help kinda hoping A Certain Event didn’t happen, but I’m also not heartbroken? somehow? because I trust the author to make it work out for the better (no pressure, haha!). And random note—fans of Rosemary Sutcliff and Redwall, I think you’d love this series.
I can’t say I loved this as much as the first book, but I’m positive it’s just because I spent the whole book tiptoeing anxiously through, hoping all my lovelies would stay okay and things would work out. #readinganxiety I absolutely know I will adore this when I reread it, now that I know how it goes, and for all my worry, I truly enjoyed the adventure in every aspect, and the message touched me deeply, and I was just in love with the characters and writing style. It was pretty much everything I hoped it was and I am just eagerly awaiting book 3. Overall, 7/10 hearts, and if you loved book one, READ THIS.
Content: mild violence; frequent but undetailed romance.
A Favourite Quote: To laugh and jest and to simply live while war and death lay on the horizon was perhaps the only way they would survive it all. For it was when fear consumed a person, when the good things in life were forgotten, that one truly lost.
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: And yet... this was not the song she had sung before. This was something else entirely, something new and hopeful, like the shy breaking of dawn after the darkest night that blossoms into glorious sunshine and chases all the shadows away.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I am starving, positively dying of hunger, and yet Father decides tha’ this is the best time to ride out—as if we somehow are faster wi’ nothing in our stomachs,” Malcolm wailed to the brilliant spring sky, attempting to look his most forlorn. The mare beside him whinnied as if in agreement.
… “I suppose we should jist hae ye frightening the Danes away wi’ yer cryin’ instead of bothering to send our warriors against them,” Angus drawled[.]
Malcolm snorted, tossing his mess of fiery curls like he were a colt. “Aye, ye jist might after this. A man is meant to eat at his leisure, no’ stuffing bread into his mouth while he runs on his feet.”
“Ye stuff bread in yer mouth regardless,” his brother retorted.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Sequels must almost always rise or fall by the comparison with the first book, and this one particularly because it’s a continuation of the first book, set 1-2 years after. So, first, the cover… it’s perfect and meshes so well with the first book. And the title fits in SO perfectly. The aesthetic is excellent, and the writing style is just as amazing as ever. I absolutely LOVED the deep themes of freedom and hope and light and courage. I just know this would have meant so much to me when I was in the throes of depression, and even now, when fear has me paralyzed, there were so many quotes that spoke straight to my soul. All this—5/5 continuation.
And then the characters. There’s a few subtractions and additions… notably, Cynfael, Elspeth, and Dafydd. Cynfael was not a replacement to Rhiada, yet he filled that place so well. I absolutely love that wise, quiet, noble young harper-king and cannot wait to see his story continued in book 3. Elspeth was an unexpected addition but I loved it—it fit SO well into the story’s themes and plot—and I’m cheering for her romance as hard as I can. And Dafydd, well, we had a brief time together but he still meant a lot. There’s some new villains and some new allies—I really can’t wait to meet the Highland chiefs—and the princeling is a fascinating new angle to the whole story. As for the old characters, they’re delightfully themselves, except Donald kinda broke my heart towards the end. Continuation of characters? 5/5.
Okay, and there’s the romance. Of course I shipped Fiangus after the first book, but I didn’t ship hard, because it seemed still pretty far in the future. Well, the romance RAMPED up here, and it was adorable. I don’t love this kind of romance as a rule… all the pining and yearning and inability (or incapacity) to declare it… but it worked out well in the plot and I love the characters enough to put up with their foolishness. ;) I also really appreciated how the relationship between Fiona and Angus doesn’t only focus on their romance but also on their guard/queen relationship and just plain friendship. So, romance… 4/5, but I know most people would consider it a solid 5/5.
And finally we get to the plot. It’s different from the first book, of course—and yet it has enough similarities to be a little familiar, which is a thing I personally REALLY appreciate. There was plenty of action and suspense, especially towards the end—and yet also plenty of thinking and strategizing. The book was an excellent middle: continued the story, but didn’t wrap up much until the next book. The cliffhanger took me WAY out, and I can’t help kinda hoping A Certain Event didn’t happen, but I’m also not heartbroken? somehow? because I trust the author to make it work out for the better (no pressure, haha!). And random note—fans of Rosemary Sutcliff and Redwall, I think you’d love this series.
I can’t say I loved this as much as the first book, but I’m positive it’s just because I spent the whole book tiptoeing anxiously through, hoping all my lovelies would stay okay and things would work out. #readinganxiety I absolutely know I will adore this when I reread it, now that I know how it goes, and for all my worry, I truly enjoyed the adventure in every aspect, and the message touched me deeply, and I was just in love with the characters and writing style. It was pretty much everything I hoped it was and I am just eagerly awaiting book 3. Overall, 7/10 hearts, and if you loved book one, READ THIS.
Content: mild violence; frequent but undetailed romance.
A Favourite Quote: To laugh and jest and to simply live while war and death lay on the horizon was perhaps the only way they would survive it all. For it was when fear consumed a person, when the good things in life were forgotten, that one truly lost.
A Favourite Beautiful Quote: And yet... this was not the song she had sung before. This was something else entirely, something new and hopeful, like the shy breaking of dawn after the darkest night that blossoms into glorious sunshine and chases all the shadows away.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I am starving, positively dying of hunger, and yet Father decides tha’ this is the best time to ride out—as if we somehow are faster wi’ nothing in our stomachs,” Malcolm wailed to the brilliant spring sky, attempting to look his most forlorn. The mare beside him whinnied as if in agreement.
… “I suppose we should jist hae ye frightening the Danes away wi’ yer cryin’ instead of bothering to send our warriors against them,” Angus drawled[.]
Malcolm snorted, tossing his mess of fiery curls like he were a colt. “Aye, ye jist might after this. A man is meant to eat at his leisure, no’ stuffing bread into his mouth while he runs on his feet.”
“Ye stuff bread in yer mouth regardless,” his brother retorted.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
September 2, 2024
I binged these two over the weekend. What a beautiful series. I can't wait for the third book.
May 31, 2024
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Wow. Oh, wow.
That was beautiful.
I can't believe it's already been two years since I read Dilseachd - but I have been very eagerly (and anxiously) awaiting this book since then. Eager, because I was dying to get more of Fiona's story, and anxious, because I was worried I wouldn't end up liking it. And yet, even after anticipating it for so long, it took me a while to read it when I got it because I kept remembering Dilseachd as being so heavy and hard to read.
Well, I don't know whether Dilseachd was really a more intense/heavy read, or whether in two years I've changed, or whether I just happened to be in the perfect mood for that style right now, or whether perhaps it was just because I was so invested in the characters this time, but whatever it was, Urram sucked me in in a way even Dilseachd didn't do. And wow... I have no words. It was so beautiful.
The character growth... just wow. Fiona and Angus are older now, by a year, and have matured and grown separately in the time they've been apart. And yes, even Malcolm has done a fair bit of growing up. Not too much though - he's still the fun little brother character I love so much. :D All their characters have so much depth and beauty, and they've come so far... I love it.
There's also the addition of several new characters in this book - notably the young Welsh king Cynfael, who very quickly managed to establish himself as one of my favourite characters and quite rival his father for how much I loved him! (And that's saying a LOT.) I loved his almost older-brother relationship with Fiona.
And Elspeth was so sweet and I loved her story - I can't wait to see how it plays out. There's also Dafydd and Merwyn, two Welsh lads who are now close friends of Angus and Malcolm. While we didn't see much of Merwyn, he looked fun and I like that Malcolm has a friend so much like him. :D And as for Dafydd... oh, Dafydd. He was such a perfect friend for Angus, and though I was a little concerned for a bit about him and Fiona, I ended up just loving him soo much for how good a friend he was. <3 He and Cynfael are easily my two favourite characters other than Fiona and Angus. *cries*
Fiona is truly a young woman now, and slowly learning how to step into her role as (hopefully) future queen of the Scots. And oh, I loved it so much, because I love HER so much. It's rare for me to love a female lead as much as I love Fiona, especially a warrior-princess female lead - normally I'd hate it, but Fiona is one of my favourite female leads ever, I think. So realistic and so brave and so tender and loyal and true.
And Angus... oh, I love him too. I shipped them soo hard - always have, but even more so in this book! I could go on and on about them and their beautiful friendship-to-romance which was just soo lovely and sweet. While misunderstandings usually drive me nuts, this one actually made SENSE and so did the kind of awkward barrier that you could totally EXPECT to come between them. And I did appreciate how it didn't snowball out of proportion or take over the whole book. The romance unfolded beautifully and THANK YOU to the author for keeping it so clean! And can I just say... the scene in the dungeons and the scene immediately afterwards... beautiful. <3<3<3
Speaking of which, that scene and and the preceding scenes were soo suspenseful and made me love Angus even more for his loyalty and courage and love. (Not to mention the other three - I love them so much.) And I have to say I'm rather relieved about how that sequence ended, or at least I was before I realised that things might actually get worse now... So now I don't know what to think! I'm just glad certain people are out the picture, anyway. And I absolutely LOVE the addition of Henrick - and I feel soo sorry for him, but also not, because he's going to have a good life now - at least I hope so - and AHHH I love Cynfael so much.
Even the SETTING is so beautiful - the first book was set in the bleakness of winter, which intensified the general atmosphere of despair. But this was set in spring, enhancing the theme of rekindled hope - and it was beautifully described and woven in.
*Very minor spoiler*
As with the other one, Fiona accompanied the war party and shared their sleeping area, which I didn't like, BUT this was different to the first book in that she went with the understanding that she wouldn't be fighting unless she had to - and she didn't. She went as a symbol and a princess to give hope to the men, and she kept out of the fighting on all occasions that I remember. I appreciate that, and as a result had much less objection to her going than I did in the first book.
*end of mild spoiler*
There were only two other things that bothered me - one was the ritual surrounding the oath taking ceremony, which made me uncomfortable especially with how much emphasis was laid on it, and the other was the significance that was given to dreams and the idea that dreams could be a warning and that you could get a glimpse into the future through them. Those were the two things that made me lower my rating slightly, along with the occasional slightly gory descriptions that come with sword fighting and so on. But I think that was much better than in the first book.
And yes - we have to talk about the ending even though I would infinitely prefer to pretend like it just never happened and I didn't actually read that - but I will cling to the author's note and the hope that it is not what it looks like BECAUSE IT BETTER NOT BE WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE. Just when it looked like everything would actually come right - and after having prepared me for the worst only to have me think it would actually end on a high note only to realise there was a worst which I had never thought actually possible... All I can say is, it better not be true. ;P Although even if it isn't true, the connected thing that IS certain is sad enough!!! And since I've made up my mind to believe the best until proven otherwise, I'm almost more upset about THAT than anything else. *sobs* It better not be in vain... *cries more*
I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next book, so I just have to hope that it comes out very soon! This is such a good series - I've fallen soooo hard for the characters and I absolutely love the author's writing. Now, even more than I did before. I didn't want it to end, and I didn't want to rush through it, but at the same time, I didn't want to put it down! Soo excited (and anxious) to read the final installment of this beautiful, gripping trilogy!
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
P.S. Don't miss this beautiful companion song to the series! It's soo perfect and I can't stop listening to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufHqL...
Wow. Oh, wow.
That was beautiful.
I can't believe it's already been two years since I read Dilseachd - but I have been very eagerly (and anxiously) awaiting this book since then. Eager, because I was dying to get more of Fiona's story, and anxious, because I was worried I wouldn't end up liking it. And yet, even after anticipating it for so long, it took me a while to read it when I got it because I kept remembering Dilseachd as being so heavy and hard to read.
Well, I don't know whether Dilseachd was really a more intense/heavy read, or whether in two years I've changed, or whether I just happened to be in the perfect mood for that style right now, or whether perhaps it was just because I was so invested in the characters this time, but whatever it was, Urram sucked me in in a way even Dilseachd didn't do. And wow... I have no words. It was so beautiful.
The character growth... just wow. Fiona and Angus are older now, by a year, and have matured and grown separately in the time they've been apart. And yes, even Malcolm has done a fair bit of growing up. Not too much though - he's still the fun little brother character I love so much. :D All their characters have so much depth and beauty, and they've come so far... I love it.
There's also the addition of several new characters in this book - notably the young Welsh king Cynfael, who very quickly managed to establish himself as one of my favourite characters and quite rival his father for how much I loved him! (And that's saying a LOT.) I loved his almost older-brother relationship with Fiona.
And Elspeth was so sweet and I loved her story - I can't wait to see how it plays out. There's also Dafydd and Merwyn, two Welsh lads who are now close friends of Angus and Malcolm. While we didn't see much of Merwyn, he looked fun and I like that Malcolm has a friend so much like him. :D And as for Dafydd... oh, Dafydd. He was such a perfect friend for Angus, and though I was a little concerned for a bit about him and Fiona, I ended up just loving him soo much for how good a friend he was. <3 He and Cynfael are easily my two favourite characters other than Fiona and Angus. *cries*
Fiona is truly a young woman now, and slowly learning how to step into her role as (hopefully) future queen of the Scots. And oh, I loved it so much, because I love HER so much. It's rare for me to love a female lead as much as I love Fiona, especially a warrior-princess female lead - normally I'd hate it, but Fiona is one of my favourite female leads ever, I think. So realistic and so brave and so tender and loyal and true.
And Angus... oh, I love him too. I shipped them soo hard - always have, but even more so in this book! I could go on and on about them and their beautiful friendship-to-romance which was just soo lovely and sweet. While misunderstandings usually drive me nuts, this one actually made SENSE and so did the kind of awkward barrier that you could totally EXPECT to come between them. And I did appreciate how it didn't snowball out of proportion or take over the whole book. The romance unfolded beautifully and THANK YOU to the author for keeping it so clean! And can I just say... the scene in the dungeons and the scene immediately afterwards... beautiful. <3<3<3
Speaking of which, that scene and and the preceding scenes were soo suspenseful and made me love Angus even more for his loyalty and courage and love. (Not to mention the other three - I love them so much.) And I have to say I'm rather relieved about how that sequence ended, or at least I was before I realised that things might actually get worse now... So now I don't know what to think! I'm just glad certain people are out the picture, anyway. And I absolutely LOVE the addition of Henrick - and I feel soo sorry for him, but also not, because he's going to have a good life now - at least I hope so - and AHHH I love Cynfael so much.
Even the SETTING is so beautiful - the first book was set in the bleakness of winter, which intensified the general atmosphere of despair. But this was set in spring, enhancing the theme of rekindled hope - and it was beautifully described and woven in.
*Very minor spoiler*
As with the other one, Fiona accompanied the war party and shared their sleeping area, which I didn't like, BUT this was different to the first book in that she went with the understanding that she wouldn't be fighting unless she had to - and she didn't. She went as a symbol and a princess to give hope to the men, and she kept out of the fighting on all occasions that I remember. I appreciate that, and as a result had much less objection to her going than I did in the first book.
*end of mild spoiler*
There were only two other things that bothered me - one was the ritual surrounding the oath taking ceremony, which made me uncomfortable especially with how much emphasis was laid on it, and the other was the significance that was given to dreams and the idea that dreams could be a warning and that you could get a glimpse into the future through them. Those were the two things that made me lower my rating slightly, along with the occasional slightly gory descriptions that come with sword fighting and so on. But I think that was much better than in the first book.
And yes - we have to talk about the ending even though I would infinitely prefer to pretend like it just never happened and I didn't actually read that - but I will cling to the author's note and the hope that it is not what it looks like BECAUSE IT BETTER NOT BE WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE. Just when it looked like everything would actually come right - and after having prepared me for the worst only to have me think it would actually end on a high note only to realise there was a worst which I had never thought actually possible... All I can say is, it better not be true. ;P Although even if it isn't true, the connected thing that IS certain is sad enough!!! And since I've made up my mind to believe the best until proven otherwise, I'm almost more upset about THAT than anything else. *sobs* It better not be in vain... *cries more*
I don't know how I'm going to wait for the next book, so I just have to hope that it comes out very soon! This is such a good series - I've fallen soooo hard for the characters and I absolutely love the author's writing. Now, even more than I did before. I didn't want it to end, and I didn't want to rush through it, but at the same time, I didn't want to put it down! Soo excited (and anxious) to read the final installment of this beautiful, gripping trilogy!
Note: I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
P.S. Don't miss this beautiful companion song to the series! It's soo perfect and I can't stop listening to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufHqL...
July 16, 2024
This was such a beautiful, heart wrenching ride. I enjoyed this immensely and it was so nice to revisit this story and characters.
Wonderful quotes and themes, and I still love all the characters…and some new ones. Especially one man in particular 🤭
Content:
Clean
Some violence and blood
Kissing and holding each other
Wonderful quotes and themes, and I still love all the characters…and some new ones. Especially one man in particular 🤭
Content:
Clean
Some violence and blood
Kissing and holding each other
April 11, 2024
Urram was such a lovely read. It was so good to be reunited with Fiona, Angus, and Malcolm once again and continue their journey. I loved seeing the character growth since the first book, especially in Malcolm (who is one of my top favorites!)
As always, Cheyenne’s prose is lovely and evocative. It’s a beautiful journey seeing Scotland through her eyes.
Also…that cliffhanger I was left on was so not fair 😭 I need book three asap!
As always, Cheyenne’s prose is lovely and evocative. It’s a beautiful journey seeing Scotland through her eyes.
Also…that cliffhanger I was left on was so not fair 😭 I need book three asap!
May 11, 2024
FTC Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
My heart hurts now. This book takes us on a true rollercoaster ride, filled with tender moments, agonizing decisions, and brutal wars. It wasn’t what I expected, but it was exactly what was needed. And that ending… Gah!! But I get ahead of myself…
Characters: Fiona is such a good heroine! She’s a great example of how to write a strong female character: she has her own opinions and can take care of herself, but she also recognizes her need for others. She learns some hard lessons in this story, and I’m excited to see where the final book takes her!
Angus… My sweet, troubled lad. Don’t you know how much we all love you? He grows up a lot across these pages. I’m eager to see what’s in store for him.
Malcolm is still Malcolm, still thinking with his stomach but maturing nonetheless. I’d love him for a little brother.
And I’d officially like to join the King Cynfael fan club, if I may.
Content: This is in some ways a war story, and there’s lots of death and bloodshed. (Nothing’s gratuitously graphic, though.) Characters take a blood oath requiring them to cut their palms.
A few characters are said to swear. (One character is severely told off for this.)
Much of the story focuses on a budding romance between two characters. There are a few kisses, none detailed. It’s so innocent and sweet!
Writing: Van Langvelde has a delightfully poetic writing style, giving us some space from the horrors of the story while not shying away from how brutal life is for the characters. The story is a bit slow during the first half, but the ending more than makes up for that. And the cliffhanger ending nearly had me chucking my Kindle across the room. (Read the author’s note… That’s all I can say.)
Summary: If you enjoyed Dìlseachd, this sequel is a must-read! It will make you laugh, it will frustrate you, it will drive you to tears if you’re not careful. It’s a story of halting hope, a message we especially need in light of the ending. You will not be disappointed with this one!
My heart hurts now. This book takes us on a true rollercoaster ride, filled with tender moments, agonizing decisions, and brutal wars. It wasn’t what I expected, but it was exactly what was needed. And that ending… Gah!! But I get ahead of myself…
Characters: Fiona is such a good heroine! She’s a great example of how to write a strong female character: she has her own opinions and can take care of herself, but she also recognizes her need for others. She learns some hard lessons in this story, and I’m excited to see where the final book takes her!
Angus… My sweet, troubled lad. Don’t you know how much we all love you? He grows up a lot across these pages. I’m eager to see what’s in store for him.
Malcolm is still Malcolm, still thinking with his stomach but maturing nonetheless. I’d love him for a little brother.
And I’d officially like to join the King Cynfael fan club, if I may.
Content: This is in some ways a war story, and there’s lots of death and bloodshed. (Nothing’s gratuitously graphic, though.) Characters take a blood oath requiring them to cut their palms.
A few characters are said to swear. (One character is severely told off for this.)
Much of the story focuses on a budding romance between two characters. There are a few kisses, none detailed. It’s so innocent and sweet!
Writing: Van Langvelde has a delightfully poetic writing style, giving us some space from the horrors of the story while not shying away from how brutal life is for the characters. The story is a bit slow during the first half, but the ending more than makes up for that. And the cliffhanger ending nearly had me chucking my Kindle across the room. (Read the author’s note… That’s all I can say.)
Summary: If you enjoyed Dìlseachd, this sequel is a must-read! It will make you laugh, it will frustrate you, it will drive you to tears if you’re not careful. It’s a story of halting hope, a message we especially need in light of the ending. You will not be disappointed with this one!
August 14, 2024
I donnae ken I can recover from that ending in time for the next book.
Longer review to come.
Longer review to come.
October 2, 2024
Waiting for Fiangus to pull themselves together had me sighing in exasperation haha Buut it's all too relatable...those 2 are in their heads far too much; especially Fiona...& I get it. Her rampant over-thinking reminded me of me in uncomfortable ways & irritated me. & yet that's how it is; we see ourselves in certain characters & we simultaneously love & despise them 'cause they're mirrors & it hurts.
Cynfael is so intriguing...his gentleness is offset by this kind of dormant ruthlessness that you get to see in his relationship with his falcon. He's got my attention & I hope there's more exploration of his character in Book 3👌
Hope runs hard through this novel & though, at times, I did feel it all to be a bit repetitive & some of the chapters harder to get through; that theme of light in the darkness ministered to my heart.
Can't wait for Book 3, Chey!! 😊
Cynfael is so intriguing...his gentleness is offset by this kind of dormant ruthlessness that you get to see in his relationship with his falcon. He's got my attention & I hope there's more exploration of his character in Book 3👌
Hope runs hard through this novel & though, at times, I did feel it all to be a bit repetitive & some of the chapters harder to get through; that theme of light in the darkness ministered to my heart.
Can't wait for Book 3, Chey!! 😊
June 9, 2024
I feel like at this point, any review of van Langevelde’s work is just going to kick off with her very classical style and trademark gorgeous prose. I could see so much of the settings in wonderful ways. Urram also has another hallmark of her work in spades, which is an abundance of really quotable wisdom, the kind you just want to underline and think about for a while.
The story brings back favorite characters, as well as some new ones who were quick to make a home in my heart (especially Cynfael — I still am not over Rhiada’s loss in book one). I loved the themes of holding to hope, even in the darkest of times, and constantly finding courage even when you are afraid. The beginning felt a bit slow for me, but that was probably less of the writing and more of my expectations knowing what was to come. But before it knew it, I was flying through with the need to know what would happen next, and there were some twists that I did NOT see coming!
Overall, this book definitely lived up to its promise, and I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what’s next.
The story brings back favorite characters, as well as some new ones who were quick to make a home in my heart (especially Cynfael — I still am not over Rhiada’s loss in book one). I loved the themes of holding to hope, even in the darkest of times, and constantly finding courage even when you are afraid. The beginning felt a bit slow for me, but that was probably less of the writing and more of my expectations knowing what was to come. But before it knew it, I was flying through with the need to know what would happen next, and there were some twists that I did NOT see coming!
Overall, this book definitely lived up to its promise, and I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what’s next.
May 13, 2024
FTC Disclosure: I was given a free ecopy of the book from the author in exchange for an honest review. It didn't have to be a positive review. Everything expressed in here are my own thoughts and opinions.
Urram is an extremely well written story building off of Dilseached masterfully. Cheyenne has captured the emotions and thoughts of the characters, the scenery of the landscape and buildings, and the overall mood of the story being told. Full of twists and turns, this will keep you entertained until the end. You'll laugh over Malcolm's antics, ache with Fiona and Angus, and you will absolutely need tissues. New characters will endear themselves to your heart. And the end will leave you dying to know what comes next.
Urram is an extremely well written story building off of Dilseached masterfully. Cheyenne has captured the emotions and thoughts of the characters, the scenery of the landscape and buildings, and the overall mood of the story being told. Full of twists and turns, this will keep you entertained until the end. You'll laugh over Malcolm's antics, ache with Fiona and Angus, and you will absolutely need tissues. New characters will endear themselves to your heart. And the end will leave you dying to know what comes next.
June 18, 2024
What a marvelous sequel! It’s hard to believe I have to live with that cliffhanger until Book 3 though 😭😭 I gasped aloud in the doctors office, I kid you not. Highly recommend to anyone who likes the Raven King Trilogy, Prydain, or Kidnapped! by RLS.
August 5, 2025
Everything I loved about the first book was continued in the second, only this time with a heart-wrenching ending that is making the waiting for the final installment like torture! I can't wait to see how all these characters find their resolutions in the final book. Cheyenne handles character development so sensitively and I can see the influence of the authors she looks up to shine through in the best of ways. I feel like I have gained friends through this series that will last in my mind far beyond the third book.
August 6, 2025
Really enjoyed returning to this world and these characters, and I am excited for the final book in the trilogy! This one does kind of drag in the middle, unfortunately; lots of very slow buildup to a climax that felt a bit rushed. I am curious and excited to see how the cliffhanger is resolved in the final book. I LOVE the characters and they keep me coming back to this series for sure.
November 15, 2024
Still love this writing and how I can disappear so easily in this series. Was the cliffhanger cruel, yes. Yes it was! So I’m going to pretend that I can be patient.
January 27, 2025
I enjoyed this next installment. It's nice to see a certain romance *finally* working out! Looking forward to when book 3 releases!
May 19, 2024
This is the second book of The Princess of the Highlands Trilogy. I really enjoyed the first book and have read it twice. If you would like to see my review, I have it posted on Instagram as well as Goodreads and Amazon.
As for Urram, I love, as always, Cheyenne’s vivid imagery and descriptions. The setting when it comes to landscape, weather, etc. is relayed in a beautiful and eye-catching way, leaving the reader able to see clearly what she is trying to convey. Along these lines though, I do feel that there were too many opening scenes/chapters that began with a sunrise or sunset. It began to feel a little repetitive with little variance.
I love Malcom’s character. He’s one of my favorites, as I believe he is for many. The character development was well-done and their arcs continued throughout the story in a way that showed personal growth and were relatable.
As for the themes of hope, courage, and learning to open up and rely on friendships, the characters showed the immaturities of youth while also showing growth through hardship and suffering. At times I did feel like the themes were forced and not a natural, subtle progression.
Now for Angus and Fiona. I loved aspects of their budding and blossoming relationship. However, there were times their actions and dialogue towards one another were stilted and unrealistic. I also felt this once or twice with Donald and Annag, who are married.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and am looking forward to the third book coming out.
As for Urram, I love, as always, Cheyenne’s vivid imagery and descriptions. The setting when it comes to landscape, weather, etc. is relayed in a beautiful and eye-catching way, leaving the reader able to see clearly what she is trying to convey. Along these lines though, I do feel that there were too many opening scenes/chapters that began with a sunrise or sunset. It began to feel a little repetitive with little variance.
I love Malcom’s character. He’s one of my favorites, as I believe he is for many. The character development was well-done and their arcs continued throughout the story in a way that showed personal growth and were relatable.
As for the themes of hope, courage, and learning to open up and rely on friendships, the characters showed the immaturities of youth while also showing growth through hardship and suffering. At times I did feel like the themes were forced and not a natural, subtle progression.
Now for Angus and Fiona. I loved aspects of their budding and blossoming relationship. However, there were times their actions and dialogue towards one another were stilted and unrealistic. I also felt this once or twice with Donald and Annag, who are married.
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and am looking forward to the third book coming out.
May 7, 2024
Cheyenne’s classical style, beautiful prose, and the deep emotion she writes so well, all return in Urram. I was privileged to be both a beta-reader and an ARC reader, and I've watched Cheyenne polish this story and strengthen it until it shines.
"The milky light glowed on heather moors, bending beneath a whispering breeze. Among the swaying brush, the sweet sound of harp echoed in her mind. She steadied the questions swirling in her heart and asked them silently into the night.
The moon did not answer."
The characters we’ve grown to love in book one return - Fiona, Angus, Malcolm and Annag. There are new characters as well - Cynfael, a wise and gentle leader as his father was. Daffyd, whose personality reminds me of both Angus and Malcolm in the best way. And of course dear Elspeth!
This story is one of hope and loss, of courage and fear, and of fighting for what you hold dear. I can’t wait for book three!
"The milky light glowed on heather moors, bending beneath a whispering breeze. Among the swaying brush, the sweet sound of harp echoed in her mind. She steadied the questions swirling in her heart and asked them silently into the night.
The moon did not answer."
The characters we’ve grown to love in book one return - Fiona, Angus, Malcolm and Annag. There are new characters as well - Cynfael, a wise and gentle leader as his father was. Daffyd, whose personality reminds me of both Angus and Malcolm in the best way. And of course dear Elspeth!
This story is one of hope and loss, of courage and fear, and of fighting for what you hold dear. I can’t wait for book three!
March 28, 2024
This book has been such a long time in coming, but I am so excited for you all to read it very soon! I know I am biased, but I am very proud of what this book has become. So many passages and moments are very dear to my heart and it's a privilege to finally share it with you all. As much as I love all the books I've written for different reasons, this one may be my favorite out of the trilogy.
Urram - Rekindled Hope is a book set in the spring. And, as the title suggests, it's one of hope. Of growth, of change, of second changes. The characters aren't quite the same people we left them in Book One, but not all change is bad. But I suppose you shall have to find that out for yourself!
If you read this book, I would love to hear your thoughts in an honest review! Thank you for giving this story a chance. <3
~ The Author
Urram - Rekindled Hope is a book set in the spring. And, as the title suggests, it's one of hope. Of growth, of change, of second changes. The characters aren't quite the same people we left them in Book One, but not all change is bad. But I suppose you shall have to find that out for yourself!
If you read this book, I would love to hear your thoughts in an honest review! Thank you for giving this story a chance. <3
~ The Author
November 27, 2024
Sequels are usually tricky to deal with, and I've seen many authors stumble through them, but Cheyenne managed to keep up terrific momentum from the first book in this one! Even though there was much time spent preparing and planning--something that usually struggles to keep my interest--the tension between characters and outside forces, and among interpersonal relationships, was very well-paced and brought to a head at just the right moments. This was both a great self-sustaining story and bridge between books 1 and 3. Also Cheyenne's prose is simply some of the most beautiful I've ever read. She manages to find the right balance between being delicate and forceful.
The ending though?????? I'm so anxious for the third book now.
The ending though?????? I'm so anxious for the third book now.
September 2, 2025
GOOD GRACIOUS!!! I have never sped through the last quarter of a novel as quickly as I did for this one. Chey has outdone herself; I am on the edge of my seat and ready for the last installment!!!! Please!!!!
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