Romancing the Scot: (Pennington Family)

The Pennington Family #1

by May McGoldrick, Jan Coffey

In this stunning series starter by USA Today bestselling author May McGoldrick, meet the new generation of Penningtons...five brothers and sisters of passion and privilege. Enter their aristocratic world…where each will fight injustice and find love.

Hugh Pennington—Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts, hero of the Napoleonic wars—is a grieving widower with a death wish. When he receives an expected crate from the continent, he is shocked to find a nearly dead woman inside. Her identity is unknown, and the handful of American coins and the precious diamond sown into her dress only deepen the mystery.

Grace Ware is an enemy to the English crown. Her father, an Irish military commander of Napoleon’s defeated army. Her mother, an exiled Scottish Jacobite. When Grace took shelter in a warehouse, running from her father’s murderers through the harbor alleyways of Antwerp, she never anticipated bad luck to deposit her at the home of an aristocrat in the Scottish Borders. Baronsford is the last place she could expect to find safety, and Grace feigns a loss of memory to buy herself time while she recovers.

Hugh is taken by her beauty, passion, and courage to challenge his beliefs and open his mind. Grace finds in him a wounded man of honor, proud but compassionate. When their duel of wits quickly turns to passion and romance, Grace’s fears begin to dissolve…until danger follows her to the very doors of Baronsford. For, unknown to either of them, Grace has in her possession a secret that will wreak havoc within the British government. Friend and foe are indistinguishable as lethal forces converge to tear the two lovers apart or destroy them both.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Audiobook, Mystery, Chick Lit

319 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 14, 2017

About the author

May McGoldrick, Nik James, and Jan Coffey are pen names for USA Today bestselling authors Nikoo Kafi and Jim McGoldrick. Together, they have crafted over fifty fast-paced, conflict-filled historical, contemporary, and Western novels, and two works of nonfiction.

Nikoo’s education and training was in engineering. She worked in robotics and submarine shipbuilding. Before earning a PhD in sixteenth-century Scottish and English literature, Jim pursued a hundred and one jobs, including a decade in submarine construction.

Storytellers at heart, Nikoo and Jim were always searching for careers that gave them time for both family and writing. Then, after thirteen years of marriage, they recognized each other’s creative strengths. Nikoo is all about characters and feeling. Jim is about action and sense of place. Their first attempt in writing fiction together produced their award-winning novel, The Thistle and the Rose. Since then, their stories have touched the hearts and minds of millions of readers all over the world. Their work has been translated into over a dozen languages and counting.

Nikoo and Jim are four-time Rita Finalists and the winners of numerous awards for their writing, including the Daphne DeMaurier Award for Excellence, the Romantic Times Magazine Reviewers’ Choice Award, three NJRW Golden Leaf Awards, two Holt Medallions, and the Connecticut Press Club Award for Best Fiction.

The authors make their home in California.

Here is a complete catalogue of May McGoldrick, Nik James and Jan Coffey’s work, in chronological order.
Each book stands on its own.

MAY McGOLDRICK

Macpherson Clan Series
The Thistle and the Rose
A Midsummer Wedding (novella)
Angel of Skye
Heart of Gold
Beauty of the Mist

The Intended
Flame
Tess and the Highlander
The Dreamer (Highland Treasure)
The Enchantress (Highland Treasure)
The Firebrand (Highland Treasure)

Much Ado About Highlanders (Scottish Relic)
Taming the Highlander (Scottish Relic)
Tempest in the Highlands (Scottish Relic)

Arsenic and Old Armor
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Pennington Family Series
The Promise
The Rebel
Borrowed Dreams
Captured Dreams
Dreams of Destiny
Romancing the Scot
It Happened in the Highlands
Sweet Home Highland Christmas (novella)
Sleepless in Scotland
Dearest Millie (novella)
How to Ditch a Duke (novella)
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Royal Highlander Series
Highland Crown
Highland Jewel
Highland Sword
---

A Prince in the Pantry (novella)
Ghost of the Thames
---

Made in Heaven
Thanksgiving in Connecticut (novella)

NIK JAMES
The Winter Road (novella)
High Country Justice
Bullets and Silver
Silver Trail Christmas

JAN COFFEY
Trust Me Once
Twice Burned
Triple Threat
Fourth Victim
Five in a Row
Silent Waters
Cross Wired
The Janus Effect
The Puppet Master
Blind Eye
Road Kill
Mercy (novella)
Tropical Kiss
Aquarian
When the Mirror Cracks

NONFICTION

Marriage of Minds: Collaborative Fiction Writing
Step Write Up: Writing Exercises for 21st Century

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www.NikJamesAuthor.com
www.JanCoffey.com

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Reviews

[Beverly · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was light on a lot of things for me, even though I was expecting a frothy read. Historically, I don't get the virginal woman jumping into heavy petting in her lust at first sight meeting. Also, did they say, you complete me in the early 1800s? I am no historian, but I doubt it. Plus, her aristocratic lover was such a feminist! Wow. At 70%, I almost did not finish, but I muddled through. I really like historical romances, this wasn't satisfying at all.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace Ware's father is an Irish military commander of Napoleon’s defeated army and she has spent her life traveling around with him and being his confidant. When they arrived in Antwerp under assumed names things did not go well when some men attacked and killed Grace's father sending her on the run. Grace found herself hiding in a warehouse from the men when she is nailed into the crate she chose to hide in and loaded for shipping.

Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts is the man whom receives the crate that Grace had hidden in and when opened finds the woman on the brink of death. Rushing the strange woman to a doctor it becomes touch and go trying to nurse her back to health after her time locked up at sea. When Grace recovers however she finds herself amidst those on the other side of the war and feigns amnesia before she finds herself labeled a traitor.

Romancing the Scot by May McGoldrick is the first book in the new historical romance series, The Pennington Family. Set in 1817 after the defeat of Napoleon the book brings together two characters from each side of the war. There's romance building among a bit of a mystery to be solved while wondering who to trust.

I found that while this story is heavy on the action, even starting on the opening pages when Grace and her father are attacked, that the story could also seem to drag in part through the middle of the book. It's a bit light on the romance side though so perhaps that was what needed more of a spark to gel the entire thing together. Still a very solid start for this series for the fans of historical romances.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....

[WhiskeyintheJar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Authors holding $100 Visa gift card giveaway to celebrate new series! Click Giveaway for chance. Ends Nov. 26

3.5 stars

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

The Napoleonic Wars are over but the political maneuverings are far from, Grace and her father are traveling with messages from Joseph Bonaparte to his wife Julie. They are attacked and Grace ends up hiding in a crate that gets shipped off to Scotland. As the daughter of a French cavalry officer with Jacobite ancestors, Grace finds herself in a perilous position when she awakens in the home of a former English cavalry officer and current judge.
Hugh still blames himself for not being able to rescue his wife and son during the war; he therefore likes dangerous hobbies such as ballooning. When an unconscious woman is found in the new basket he had delivered, he can't help but be drawn to her.
Grace and Hugh may have been on opposite sides of the war but their serendipitous meeting will have them joining together.
 
"I shouldn't have kissed you," she finally managed to whisper.
"No, it was I," he said, his gaze still setting her body aflame even from two steps away. "But I don't regret it, and I don't think you do, either."
 
First in the new Pennington Family series, Romancing the Scot is a rich and intriguing tale. Hugh is our viscount, former cavalry officer, and current judge hero, whose parents you might remember from the authors' Scottish Dream Trilogy. I greatly appreciated the authors' attention to Hugh as a judge. We don't get a courtroom scene but instead an engaging look at how he approaches his cases, specifically through a case involving a deaf and mute woman accused of murdering her child (in the author's note, the case is said to be based on a real one). This approach not only allowed Hugh and Grace to bond through solving how to work the case, showing how Hugh appreciated Grace's mind and abilities, it also added unique details to an often written about time period.
 
While Hugh provided the calm and commanding demeanor, Grace gave us the action and compelling components. She at first claims amnesia because she fears that her father fighting for Napoleon and her Jacobite ancestors might land her in trouble but can't keep lying as she grows closer with Hugh. Grace was a wonderful heroine who didn't need to be dramatically overwritten to show her brilliance in strength living the everyday life she was placed in. She traveled with her French cavalry father, fighting sicknesses, helping wounded, and marching in the muck like many of the women in her time did; she's utterly capable but also so human in her vulnerability. The story's drama comes from Grace running from men who killed her father and her thinking they're after a huge diamond she didn't know until later she was transporting. There are English and French spies and some machinations.
 
The story started off right away at a bit of run and it did jolt me a bit as I had to attempt to place the characters and what exactly was going on but it does level off fairly quickly. The middle slowed a bit as I thought more of a focus on the romance between Grace and Hugh could have sparked vivacity but I also greatly enjoyed the feel of history in this historical romance. There's a mention of the Spa Fields riots, the workings of the law I mentioned, and a focus on the Scottish Clearances. If you read a fair amount of Scottish historicals from the 1800s, you've probably run across this historical event, what made this feel different was instead of just reciting what the Clearances were or did, the authors' focused on the actual people and effects, it felt more intimate. The historical components in this story felt true and woven in a way that immensely added to the feel and created a richer story tapestry.
 
I thought the middle could have used more romance between our couple but I also believed in them when they made love, the writing sometimes veered toward flowery/purple, the plot was weaving and intriguing, and the historical components highly enriched the story. Hugh's sister Jo was a touching character in her own right and with the set-up (adopted, broken engagement) the authors' have alluded to, I can't wait to read her book. Romancing the Scot was just an all around interesting read and a strong beginning to the Pennington Family series.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!

Romancing the Scot was an enjoyable historical romance with an intriguing storyline, a heroine with a unique memory and a hero determined to see justice done.

Hugh Pennington receives quite a shock when he opens an expected crate from America and discovers a nearly dead woman inside. Grace Ware took shelter in the crate while fleeing her father’s murderers before she was unexpectedly trapped inside and shipped to Scotland. Upon awakening, Grace feigns amnesia while she comes up with a plan to escape Baronsford as she is considered an enemy to the English crown. While regaining her strength, Grace and Hugh unexpectedly begin to fall for one another and she questions her decision to withhold her identity. Within the safety of Baronsford, Grace is unaware that her pursuers are desperately trying to locate her for she holds a secret that has the potential to devastate the British government.

Grace, the daughter of one of Napoleon's finest commanders, spent years following her father around the battlefields and grew accustomed to the sights of battle while her resentment for war grew. After the war, Grace spent her time taking care of her father, who was injured in one of the last battles of the war. Grace has the gift of an eidetic memory in that she is able to exactly recall everything she has ever read. Her ability proves invaluable in her quest to locate her father’s murderers and discover why they’re now after her.

Hugh was on the opposite side of the war than Grace’s father and it was because of the war that he lost his wife and young son. In the years since the war ended, Hugh has become Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts and spends most of his time working. He is considered a fair and honest man and goes to great lengths to help those less fortunate. He cares deeply for his family and is incredibly close to them. He doesn’t however get close to anyone else as he feels too guilty to move on from his late wife.

Grace and Hugh are drawn to each other from very early on due to the circumstances of their meeting. Hugh feels very protective of Grace while she feels safe when she’s with him. Hugh helps Grace see that she can want more from life and that taking the risk for love can be worth it. Grace challenges Hugh and helps him see that although he is usually fair, he does have biases against the Irish immigrants newer to the area. While I liked Grace and Hugh together well enough, I felt their relationship developed a bit too quickly and I didn’t have enough time to get fully invested.

The mystery of who murdered Grace’s father and was now after her was my favorite part of the story. McGoldrick does a great job connecting everything in a believable way and the pacing of this part of the story was very well done. The addition of spies and the connection to Napoleon only added to the mystery. With Hugh’s position as a judge, there was an emphasis on social issues of the time and the book tended to focus on the historical aspects rather than romance at times.

Overall, I liked Romancing the Scot and recommend it to people who prefer an emphasis on the historical aspect of their historical romances.

**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romancing the Scot by May McGoldrick is the First book in the New Series called "The Pennington Family". This is the story of Hugh Pennington and Grace Ware.
Grace's father was once a high ranking military commander but in the Napoleonic wars left badly injured and Grace took on the job to take care of him. One of the jobs she has taken to help him was to be his secretary of sorts and help him continue his work. But on one of these meetings her father is killed and she runs to hide inside a shipping box. These leads her to be shipped to Hugh's house. Hugh has his own issue that he is fight. The lost of his wife and young son. Hugh feels the guilt of not being there for them. Hugh is careless now with his life and has taken to do daring things that worry his family and friends. When he gets a shipping box he thinks it is his latest hobby but find a half dead women. Grace pretends to not know who she because she is not sure who she can trust. Grace thinks her lost of memory can buy her time.
I not sure I can say enough about this book. I have loved the books by this author before but this just shows me how right I am to put them so highly on my list.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review from 2018

I've given this an A- for narration and a B- for content at AudioGals

Romancing the Scot is the first book in writing duo May McGoldrick’s series of Regency-era novels about the Pennington siblings. In this story, Hugh – Viscount Greysteil – a decorated former army officer and widower of eight years, meets his match in the form of a mysterious young woman who arrives unexpectedly and in a most unusual manner at his estate of Baronsford near the Scottish border.

Ms. McGoldrick provides an interesting historical backdrop to her tale and in Hugh, has created a progressive, forward thinking hero whose position as a Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts gives him ample opportunity to observe the inequalities and injustices faced by so many of the underprivileged around him. He takes his responsibilities – to his estates and in upholding the law – very seriously and does his utmost to help those in need and to ensure that justice is well-served.

Grace Ware is the daughter of an Irish Colonel who fought for Napoléon against the English. Ware suffered a serious injury at Waterloo, but refused treatment and now, a couple of years later, Grace knows that infection has spread throughout his body, and he is dying. An only child, Grace has followed the drum with the father since the death of her mother (a Jacobite sympathiser), her eidetic memory proving a huge asset to the Colonel in his strategising and intelligence gathering. He and Grace are carrying messages from Joseph Bonaparte (exiled in America) to his wife, Princess Julie, and have arrived in Antwerp where they are resting before resuming their journey. Grace is very concerned about the state of her father’s health – he is growing weaker by the day – but he refuses to abandon their plans. Grace’s world is suddenly up-ended when she returns to their rooms to discover them in the process of being ransacked and her father dead, murdered by the intruders. Terrified, she flees to the harbour where she evades her pursuers by hiding in a large crate, intending to wait until they have passed by. Unfortunately, however, the crate is sealed before she can get out, and is lowered aboard a ship.

The crate is bound for Baronsford, where Hugh Pennington – a keen amateur balloonist – eagerly awaits delivery of his new gondola (basket). Shocked to find a young woman close to death within, he immediately carries Grace to the house and arranges for her to be tended by his sister, Josephine (Jo) and the local doctor.

When Grace regains consciousness and begins to recover, she knows she has to decide what to do in the wake of her father’s death. Being the daughter and confidante of an enemy combatant makes her a traitor to the English Crown, and no matter how much she likes Hugh and Jo and is coming to trust them, she is wary of telling them the truth and of creating trouble for them if they are found to be harbouring the daughter of people considered to be traitors. To avoid answering awkward questions, Grace pretends to have no memory of her identity or her past while she considers her options. Things are complicated further, however, by her growing fondness for Hugh; he’s handsome, kind, compassionate and protective, and Grace has never before felt such an overwhelming attraction towards a man. But how can she tell him – a veteran of the war, yet her father’s sworn enemy; a man who could not be with his wife and son in their last moments because he was unable to break through the enemy lines held by her father – the truth of her identity and watch the light and warmth in his eyes die? And while Hugh senses Grace is hiding something from him, he is equally drawn towards her, the first woman in whom he has been seriously interested since the death of his wife.

The story starts strongly, introducing us to Grace – who is, incidentally, the only HR heroine I think I’ve come across who is on the “other side” during the Napoleonic Wars – and then following her as she flees her father’s attackers and then to her dramatic arrival in Scotland. The fast pacing and structure draws the listener in as Grace’s situation becomes dire and we need to know what happens to her. But after this, things slow down and the relationship between Hugh and Grace takes centre stage as they start to dance around their attraction to each other and gradually fall in love. Normally, I’d be all for this sort of focus – I often lament the lack of organic development in romances, and appreciate it when an author takes the time to develop that side of the story. But the middle section of this book is stodgy and I couldn’t get invested in the romance between Grace and Hugh because I just wasn’t feeling that spark between them. They’re both attractive, decent characters (notwithstanding Grace’s deception, which is, at least, undertaken for a good reason), they are intellectually compatible, passionate about justice and about helping those that most need it, but the chemistry between them is not strong, and I need to experience that sense of connection and feel the sexual tension between the protagonists in a romance if I’m to get really caught up in it.

Things do pick up again around three-quarters of the way through when, with a full pardon and a life together at stake, Grace and Hugh must work together to find out what the thieves were looking for in Antwerp – and then decide exactly whom they can trust with the truth.

I have to admit that there were times – especially in the middle part of the story – when I found myself more engaged by Saskia Maarleveld’s expert narration than by the story. She’s one of my go-to narrators for romance and I always enjoy listening to her intelligent and accomplished performances. Here, the characters are all clearly differentiated, and I continue to be impressed by her portrayal of the male characters in any given story, her naturally mezzo-range voice lending itself very well to sustaining a lower pitch that never sounds strained or forced. Here, she also gets to employ a variety of Scottish and Irish accents – Scottish for Hugh, Jo and various of the estate’s servants, and Irish for Grace; in both cases, the accents are, for the most part, accurate and consistently applied, and Ms. Maarleveld does a good job of switching seamlessly between them. Overall, she delivers a well-paced, subtly nuanced and expressive performance, and while I wasn’t wowed by this particular story, she is someone whose name on an audiobook will always make me take a second look, regardless of genre.

Romancing the Scot was a pleasant listen albeit not a compelling one. The book is well written, the central characters are engaging, and I enjoyed the strong historical background to the story, but the romance is somewhat tepid, and the pacing flags in the middle section. It gets a cautious recommendation overall.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Series: The Pennington Family #1
Publication Date: 11/14/17

The first chapter sucks you in and you are held captive right through the last page. As always, the writing is superb, the pacing is just right and the characters are well developed and believable. I thoroughly enjoyed this first book in the series and can’t wait for Jo’s story in the next book!

We have murder, traitors, lies, spies, attempted kidnappings and best of all romance all packed into one excellent novel.

We first meet Grace Ware as she and her father are arriving in Antwerp – from America. Her father was injured in the Napoleonic wars and the wound has never healed correctly. Grace is his caregiver, confidant, secretary – well – just everything. She has followed her father on all of his exploits during the wars and since. She’s seen the horrors of war, cared for the wounded and since her father is a high ranking military commander, she’s been close to the emperor. Somehow, with all she’s seen, she has managed to remain a sweet, caring and very intelligent young woman who just happens to have a photographic memory.

I really liked Grace. Often, when I read these books where one main character is keeping a secret from the other – especially by lying – it really annoys me because it goes on much too long and is usually ill-advised. This time, it is completely understandable and reasonable that she does so. She has landed in a country where she and her family would be considered traitors and the home she has landed in belongs to none other than Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts. No matter how nice they may be treating her, if they find out who she is, they may very well turn her over as a traitor.

Hugh is a man of honor and is known throughout the country as a fair and honest judge who upholds the law equally – despite rank, nationality, gender, affliction, etc. He is also a man who has been grieving for the last eight years over the deaths of his wife and young son. He blames his wife for being foolhardy, he blames the French for starting the war that kept him from getting to them and he blames himself for not being there. The once joyous man now laughs or smiles very seldom. His family thinks he has a death wish because he takes up dangerous hobbies – like ballooning.

When the new basket Hugh ordered for his balloon arrives, he hurries to open it. What catches his attention when he opens the crate isn’t the basket – it is the woman lying in it. He’s sure she’s dead, but then notices slight signs of life. As she fights for her life over the next few weeks she intrigues Hugh. She’s obviously very self-confident, intelligent, well-bred and very beautiful. Both of them fight the attraction for different reasons, but neither of them is successful. It is so satisfying to watch Hugh deal with his grief and Grace come to trust and believe in Hugh and his family. Delightful!

I would have liked to see the book end with the actual wedding instead of just talking about it – but maybe we’ll get that in the next book.

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"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."

[Caitlyn Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Regency romance lover, I’ve read hundreds, probably thousands, of books in the genre. And in all those books, I’m honestly wracking my brain to think of one where the heroine wasn’t on the ‘English’ side in the Napoleonic Wars. Which makes Romancing The Scot a standout right off the bat.

Grace Ware is twice an enemy to the English crown. Her father is an Irish military commander who was once Napoleon’s best tactical officer, her mother an exiled Scottish Jacobite. Fleeing her father’s murderers while on a mission to deliver a secret message from Napoleon’s brother to his wife, she ends up trapped in a crate and almost dies before the shipment is offloaded in Scotland… at the estate of a Scottish magistrate, a hero of the wars on the English side.

Hugh Pennington prides himself on his honour and his fair treatment of everyone, regardless of their situation in life. Shocked to find a beautiful woman near death in his shipment, he cannot help but want to know the truth about her, especially when a priceless diamond is discovered sewn into the bodice of her dress. Grace’s secrets may prove lethal to more than just herself, though, and even Hugh’s sense of fairness may be tested once he discovers her true identity.

The only detail that bothered me slightly - and I have to confess that I don’t know enough about accents in the era to know if this would actually have been a factor - is that Hugh didn’t seem to note Grace had a different accent to the English and Scottish nobility he knew. Having been raised in the French court and then moving to America, it seemed to me that she would sound different. Even Grace making a conscious decision to mimic the speech of Hugh and his sister would have dealt with the matter. A small detail, and one which didn’t really affect my enjoyment of the story.

It is very clear that the author has done their research. The historical detail in this story is fantastic, though it is woven cleverly into the story rather than info-dumped. The romance part is rather slow to start, but fantastic once it gets going, and if you are a lover of genuine historical accuracy and intriguing detail in your Regency romances you are going to absolutely adore this. I most certainly did.

Five stars.

Disclaimer: I was invited by the publisher to review an advance copy of this book.

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Historical romances are some of my favorite. Throw in some mystery and heat and you've got Romancing The Scot. This book was set in the 1800's and the two characters, Grace and Hugh, are on opposite ends of the war. Hugh is a Lord Justice in Scotland (kind of like a judge) and Grace is Irish. Her father had fought the English at Waterloo and was gravely injured, leaving only Grace to care for him. His death, however, is not due to his injury (first major gut wrenching moment). Running from killers, Grace finds herself being helped by street urchins who help her hide...in a gondola box that ends up sealed up and on its way to Scotland by ship.

Cue Lord Hugh...who finds the gondola he bought and received holds a now almost dead Grace (second major gut wrenching moment...and we are only in Chapter 2!). Hugh is immediately struck by this woman, reminding him deeply of the wife and sweet child he recently lost while he was fighting the war. He tries not to get attached to, still unknown, Grace, but the attraction is too great.

Grace tries to hide her identity when she gets better, for fear of her life. Getting her strength back has her spending time with Hugh, and really growing feelings for him. Still guarding herself, Hugh wants more, but it too much of a gentleman, worrying she has someone at home she doesn't "remember".

Eventually the charade must come to an end and the two find out each other's secrets. Watching the journey they take to get to the end point had me reading this whole book in two days (and it's a longer book!). A new to me author, but I'll definitely be checking her out after this one!!

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[JoRead · Rating 2 out of 5]

The story wasn’t bad but I had a few issues that didn’t let me fully enjoy this story.
It was a good romance story, not to mention the suspense sub-plot indeed kept me turning the pages. The thing is, I think there were too many things this book could have done without and it still would have been a good story.
It all started with lots of heart-pumping action. Someone murdered Grace’s father and now she’s trying to escape the same fate. Miraculously, she ends up in the land of a well-placed family that takes her as one of their own. After that initial encounter and Grace’s convalescence, the pace starts slowing down.

The characters were charismatic and complex. Hugh was smart and charming; stern when needed yet wicked when he wanted to be. Grace was also smart with the gift of a super memory, although it took forever to get to why it was so important she had such a gift. Jo, Hugh’s sister had a tragic past, something that I also think we spend too much time on. I think they were setting ground for future books but again, I think it was not needed. The writing was impeccable and the historical accuracy was on point. The problem with that was that we spent too much time reading about history and not enough time with the main characters as people. Even the suspense that was so good at the start ends up being kind of a let down because I felt some things about Grace’s father were more guesswork than actual answers.

** I received this book at no cost to me via Netgalley and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first story in a new series focussing on the Pennington family and, in this book, the hero is Hugh Pennington, who is Viscount Greysteil and Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts. He lives on the family estate at Baronsford in Scotland after serving the Crown in the Napoleonic Wars during which his wife and son tragically died.

Grace Ware travelled incognito from America to Antwerp with her very ill father, an Irish military commander of some renown in the defeated army of Napoleon, at the behest of Napoleon’s brother. On their arrival she endeavours to get her father to safety but they are attacked. She escapes and hides in a crate in a warehouse, only to be sealed into it, unable to escape and transported, without food or drink, across the sea.

When Hugh opens the crate, he discovers Grace near to death. With no idea who she is or how she got into the crate, Hugh and his sister are determined to do all in their power to save her. Grace is unsure where she is or who she is staying with and, when she realises she is in Scotland she is reticent to confess her own identity and past for fear of being charged with treason. She has a eidetic memory but pretends she doesn’t know who she is or what has happened to her. However, as the attraction between Grace and Hugh grows, her dilemmas grow - should she confess and risk being charged with treason or escape to remove any blame being placed on Hugh and his family? When someone who knows her from Napoleon’s court visits, dangers mount and pressures increase, how can she resolve everything? Will love find a way?

Wow, from the very beginning of this story it is an action packed start to this new series. The intrigue, secrets and mystery are paramount throughout the story which has well developed characters with whom it is easy to empathise. Hugh has a tragic past and Grace has a markedly positive impact on him. She is feisty, knowledgeable and speaks her mind, sometimes revealing more than she meant to! I liked how she gets Hugh to reevaluate his attitudes to the Irish and helps him investigate matters to help a case involving a lady who is both deaf and mute. The relationships are realistically portrayed and it is a very enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more about the Penningtons in future books in this series.

I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story, Hugh and Grace are wonderful characters that having you rooting for their HEA.

When Grace Ware finds her father and their servants dead and the villains still in the room, she runs. She hides in a shipping crate and ends up being sealed in.

When Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Commissary Court, opens the crate housing his balloon gondola, the last thing he expects to find is an almost dead woman and a handful of American coins.

Grace wakes with a fever and doesn't know where she is, in her delirium and tries to find her father. What she finds is Hugh in the library. In her fevered state, she doesn't answer his questions, but does tell him her name is Grace. Since he found her, there have been more questions than answers, including who is she and why did she have an uncut diamond sewn into the lining of her gown?

Grace finally wakes and is horrified to learn that Hugh is the Lord Justice and she is in Scotland. Her Irish father was a commander for Napoleon and her mother's family were Jacobites. Afraid to reveal her identity in fear of being imprisoned as a traitor, Grace feigns amnesia. But the ruse is hard to maintain, Grace has the gift of a photographic memory, she can remember every word she has ever read and pretending to have no memory is hard for her. She wants to trust Hugh and his sister Jo, but fear keeps her quiet. In addition, she has no idea how the diamond ended up in her possession and wonders if she has unintentionally become a conspirator with her father.

Hugh is intrigued by Grace and feels alive for the first time in years. His family believes he has a death wish and that he is overcome with grief after losing his young wife and son eight years ago. But what they don't know is that guilt more than grief has kept him prisoner for all these years. Grace is the first woman he has ever met that stirs his soul.

Hugh does his best to protect Grace and as they get to know each other, something sparks between them. But Grace is still keeping secrets and Hugh has too much honor to start a relationship with a woman who might be spoken for. They continue to grow close, Grace challenges Hugh and he begins to change. When a nosy neighbor comes calling with her houseguest in tow, Jo tries to hide Grace by sending her off with Hugh, but the neighbor catches them on the road and Grace knows her time is running out, because the houseguest knows her true identity. Later Grace learns of Hugh's wife and child, she is heartbroken and finally confesses who she is.

Hugh struggles with this knowledge, he also finally faces his past and knows without a doubt that Grace is the woman he wants in his life, no matter her past or her family. When the houseguest tries to lure Grace into a trap - Hugh knows that he loves her and will never let her go.

But there are forces at work that could ruin any future between them and secrets that must be discovered and set to right before they can even consider a HEA.

This was a fantastic story, well written and fast moving. The story has action, intrigue, secrets, steamy love scenes, wonderful secondary characters and a nail biting, sigh worthy ending.

I am happy to recommend this book and look forward to reading Jo's story. FYI - The story of Hugh's brother is already available in the anthology Christmas in Kilts!

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*

[kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

As they say I wanted to love it. Loved "Borrowed Dreams " the parents story. Really like the brothers story in a Christmas Kilts. This one was just okay. I'm not a fan of the I'll never get over my first wfe trope. Nor do I understand why the first wife followed him to the war zone dragging their 3 year old with her.

I'm not a fan of insta lust. He finds the h in a crate, near death, lying in her own waste. Well it has been 5 days. How long can you hold it. They clean her up of course and ten days later still delirious she staggers into his library and he gets horny just looking at her. Seriously . An emaciated woman who is half out of it and probably hasn't has her hair washed since God knows when is your hot button. No wonder it's been 8 years. How often is that scenario going to pop up. He does feel guilty about it though.

Which brings us to...I'm not a fan of perfection. And they are both perfect. She has to many good points to list including a photographic memory and a door mat devotion to dad who is a Napolean Bonaparte groupie. Which means she is a sworn enemy of the hero.

The hero is perfect of course except when he is standing in judgement of the Irish. But don't worry she straightens him out about that. I mean who doesn't like the Irish.

They didn't seem like a couple of thirty somethings falling in love. They came across as a couple of teenagers testing boundries.. Didn't see the love connection. Couldn't see how they wouldn't have been at odds over their huge political differences. In fact I couldn't figure out why she couldn't ride side saddle. Her father was the cavalry officer that trained Napoleon's horse. They attended court functions and traveled extensively for the crown and the father didn't realize riding side saddle was not an option but a society rule. Dumb.

Nope this one didn't work for me. But I found Jo his sister interesting and am looking forward to to that book.

[etoile1996 · Rating 5 out of 5]

the first book in mcgoldrick's pennington series, romancing the scot, finds hugh, viscount greysteil opening a box he expects to contain a new basket for his hot air balloon only to discover a young woman trapped and nearly dead at the bottom of it.

he takes her in and with the help of his sister and his staff nurses her back to health. when grace awakens and realizes where she is, she is afraid to reveal herself fully. her father was a supporter of napoleon. by all rights and purposes she is considered a traitor to the english crown, and as a high justice of the court, hugh would have no choice but to sentence her. so she feigns amnesia.

but as she learns more about him, and as the intrigue surrounding her draws near, she finds it more and more difficult to hide from hugh. she is drawn to him. his compassion, his kindness, and his fair-mindedness are an incredible draw. and then there is the pull of his physical presence. a flame of attraction she's never felt for any other man before this one.

she's afraid of how her past will affect him. afraid that because she was a good and loyal daughter she'll never have the chance to live with love. because that is what hugh offers her. his love, his heart, and he does this wholly, with no reservations. and it's super dreamy. i loved this story.

i can't wait to see where the other penningtons will find true love.

**romancing the scot published on november 14, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/st. martin's press (swerve) in exchange for my honest review.

[Nadine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am going to start by saying that I need book 2 stat!

Romancing the Scot was such a good book! So it happens a few years after the Napoleonic wars and we have a bit of a murder mystery wrapped in spies and finished off with a hot romance!

There is a lot going on in the book and I really love the fact that it is not a pure romance as a lot is attached to Grace and the fact that her father was one of Napoleon's commanders. So all that intrigue was most welcome and for me took the book and the characters to the next level.

The book had some good action, which made the more emotional moments stand out a lot more. Grace and Hugh were really amazing characters too!

Another standout thus my need for book 2 like yesterday is Jo! She is Hugh's adopted sister and she is amazing! I love that we got to know her really well and I cannot wait to read her story cause the woman deserves a great one!

But back to our story, honestly I loved it! If you like a romance you would be very happy reading this, and if you like a bit of a mystery and intrigue well you would be happy too! Since I like both, I am very much ecstatic!

So it comes as no surprise that I am going to highly recommend it and so looking forward to the next books of this series!

[Ezi Chinny · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
Hugh Pennington, the Viscount Greysteil, found a half dead Grace Ware in a crate and his people nursed her back to health. When Grace was lucid, she feigned temporary amnesia so she can figure out if the Viscount was among the group who attempted to murder. They both began trying to figure out who was after Grace and who could be trusted. One thing that was clear was the chemistry between the Widowed Hugh and the fiery tempered Grace.

The best thing about this book was the kindness and big heart of Hugh and his sister. I found Grace to be almost inhuman. I mean over a week in a crate with no food or water. I don't even want to think about how she used the bathroom considering how the women's attire was so constricting and she was barely able to move around. I do like that she was no wilting flower. She was resourceful and wasn't afraid of physical intimacy with Lord Hugh.

The plot itself wasn't really memorable and I was more curious to see if she would be discovered especially with the jewels hidden in her skirts. In the end, Hugh was able to save Grace and they unmasked the people who murdered Grace's father. The conclusion was satisfying.

Special Thanks to Tantor Audio for the audiobook given in exchange for an honest review.

[Lynsey A · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was mentioned on some list I saw on Heroes & Heartbreakers, I can't recall which list. I thought it was a very sweet story. It left me with a very nice feeling. There was no strife, no anger between the hero and heroine. It was just an overall sweet story with a great hero and heroine. It's a nice warm and fuzzy read, with no angst and a low steam level. Cute story.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love it when a well-plotted and pretty darn exciting story showcases intelligent people communicating, making reasonable assumptions, sharing thoughts, and growing closer both emotionally and physically in a way that makes sense.

This kind of reminded me of Joanna Bourne, which is a Very Good Thing indeed.

I’d write a longer review but I’m too eager to read another book by this author team. What higher compliment could I pay?

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hugh Pennington—Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts, is the perfect hero. There wasn't all the lies, distrust, and back and forth due to uncertainty that is typical of the enemy to lovers trope; and I appreciated that.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romancing the Scot by May McGoldrick
The Pennington Family #1

Goodness me! This was a book well worth reading! I am so glad there is a new series by this excellent husband-wife writing team! I could not stop reading once I began and even with a house to clean, menu to plan and guests arriving tomorrow – I had to finish this story and write the review tonight!

I can’t imagine being seeking refuge from certain death only to find myself locked in a box and transported for days without food, water, light or hope of getting free. The fact that Grace emerged from what must have felt like a coffin without losing her mind is a testament to her strength of both body and mind. She continued to shower strength throughout the book and what strength it was whether applied to getting well, used in self-defense or determining what tack to take next – she was an impressive person that I wouldn’t mind calling friend.

Hugh Pennington was shocked when he found Grace inside of a box he expected to contain parts for a balloon he planned to fly. Her status was near death and his action quick in finding help and someone to help her survive – if at all possible. With his employees, sister and a doctor to assist things were tough and go but…Grace did have a fighting chance.

This is definitely a romance with intrigue, spies, danger, death and a whole lot of history that I found fascinating. I didn’t know Napoleon had a brother and didn’t realize that the Irish immigrated to Scotland. I was fascinated by some of the legal cases mentioned and references to the wars that were fought. I was reminded of bigotry and how it has reared its ugly head throughout the ages. I loved Hugh’s sense of fairness and responsibility as well as his gentle but masterful touch. I found Grace to be a woman to emulate. I found Jo’s situation sad and am happy to know that her turn for a second chance at love and happiness will arrive in book two. I have read other books by this author and loved each one. This book was rich and complex and a delight to read.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[V SB · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book definitely did not disappoint - from start to finish, it was packed with action, mystery, romance, spy vs spy, murder, you name it, it has it all! and darn, i just couldn't seem to put it down that i just had to finish it in one sitting- finally ended at 4 am ( thank you for the eye bags Ms. McGoldrick!)

It also had a different take on the highlander story line.. Instead of a Laird, you get a judge or aka Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts.. Hugh oh Hugh can i marry you instead? Anyways, the story centers on Grace Ware, daughter of one of Napoleon's military commanders who was murdered in the opening scene.. We have Grace running for her life and with the help of a couple of street urchins is made to hide in a basket not knowing that that basket will be shipped to Scotland. Trapped inside that basket for 5 days and near death, Grace is found by none other than my babe Hugh Pennington. The story takes off from there.. Oh and that scene when they finally meet up in the library and the way they both look at each other?? *sigh* made me feel like a teenager once again looking at her first crush... *giddy feeling!* The secondary characters were amazing too.. I can't wait to read the story of Jo- adopted sister of Hugh..

All in all, it was a great read, well written, superb editing and totally captivating, full of intrigue and danger so to speak..

ARC provided by NetGalley, St. Martin's Press Swerve and Ms. May McGoldrick

[A Klue · Rating 4 out of 5]

May McGoldrick once again delivers a sweet romantic tale laced with danger lurking in the shadows. If you actually like history in your historical romance, you get a touch of that, as well. Also, some perilous, even deadly drama, where blood is spilled. What you won’t get is verra much Scottish brogue. But not to worry, this leading man may come off with gentlemanly English manners true to his station in life as a highly respected judge and lord of the manor, but he isn’t a sissified dandy. No, he’ll roll up his sleeves and get to work right alongside everyone else. Just wanted to give you a heads up, the backdrop may be Scotland, but it had quite the English feel among most of the characters.

It all starts off with a bang taking Grace, the heroine, pretty much to hell and back. That is saying something, because she did not have an easy life to begin with, folks. Fortunately, she is no shrinking violet either. She’s seen humanity at its worse played out on the battlefield and thanks to her Scottish papa she’s learned a lot about survival instincts during her 28 years by his side. It doesn’t hurt she is drop dead gorgeous, speaks several languages, and has a photographic memory. Hugh, the hero, got the whole package delivered right to his door, my fellow romance book loving friends.

I did find it a little stretch of the imagination regarding some things (i.e., how a certain something was hidden and who put it there. I just couldn’t picture not detecting it sooner. It was pretty cool what it was though. Also, how no one heard her yelling as she was being crated up.) But I rolled with it, as one often has to do when reading strictly for entertainment.

Overall, I did enjoy the storyline and seeing this destined to be together couple get their HEA. I did skim through parts of it, not feeling like I had to hang onto every word, which is usually a sign it was dragging a bit in spots. However, this author tends to be a tried and true good match for me. I have yet to regret reading any of her books. She’s one of my favorite historical romance authors.

Romance Safety Gang: Hero has been a widow for 8 years. Both his wife and child died of fever. He hasn’t been celibate, but his dalliances with OW (widows and I think it was referenced he had a mistress at one point) wasn’t overly flaunted in our faces, but briefly mentioned. Ultimately, he hadn’t remarried because he felt guilty over how his family died. Also, eventually he acknowledged because he didn’t love her in return as deeply as she loved him. He was away a lot fighting in battles. It was a little bit of a flip flip as you got the impression at first they were his world, then towards the end you feel they really weren’t. Heroine was a virgin. Too busy being daddy’s helper, despite references to past marriage proposals. No cheating/no love triangle/no OW/OM drama.

Title: Romancing the Scot, Series: The Pennington Family (Book 1), Author: May McGoldrick, Pages: 284, stand-alone but part of a series, older alpha good guy widow hero; feisty, intelligent, virgin, damsel in distress heroine, a few very steamy scenes, some bloody violence, no cheating, no love triangle, no OW/OM drama, no rape.

(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship or affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)

[Shoshanna Ford · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was my introduction to May McGoldrick and I was pleasantly surprised. After realizing this book starts off the second generation series, I immediately rushed off to purchase the book about their parents. I can’t wait to start it!

The characters were witty, interesting, and possessed of both intelligence and common sense (a feature sometimes missing from the genre). There was a moment at the very beginning of the book where Grace asked some street urchin boys to help her hide from her pursuers. I thought it brilliant. Who else could know all of the best hiding places and short cuts? That was quick thinking! It was also the moment I fell in love with this heroine. She is smart, courageous and tenacious. She may be one of my absolute favorite heroines.

The Hero of the story, Hugh, had me swooning from the very first introduction. What a hero! I guess it would be kind of cliche to say this hero is the stuff of story books, because this is an actual novel, but I mean, wow. I cannot even get into it. I could easily be here all day talking about how he is protective, just, loyal, intelligent, and handsome to boot!

The story was excellent! This couple faces some severe challenges that would not easily be overcome by anyone, and yet together, they pull through and become stronger. I really really loved the story line.

In sum, this book was the best I’ve read from an author I didn’t already know in a long while. I do hope you will grab it up as soon as you have a chance.

https://wordpress.com/post/ssshwearer...

[BrandyD · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so good!

[Danielle Urban · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romancing the Scot by May McGoldrick is one of the most exciting historical romances that I've read. Scottish romances are the best. The Scottish characters like the heroine is brave, intelligent, and beautiful. Her skill of memory serves it's purpose in more ways than one. That's part of the attraction that draws in the hero of the story.

Grace Ware is a Scottish young woman. She lives her life by taking care of her father. A single parent. He has been injured in war against the English. Due to his pride, his leg's infection has spread throughout his body. Slowly killing him...then, just as they arrive to land, they're attacked. Grace finds her father dead and the men are now, chasing after her. Running, she hides in a crate. Which ends up shipped tightly to an Englishman of noble birth.

The English are the enemy...

Hugh opens the crate only to find a woman barely alive. Grace Ware is crumpled from the crate and almost left for dead. Hugh quickly takes her out and calls for a doctor. Hugh wants her to live...after losing his wife and child, Hugh feels protective over the woman. The woman goes into a fever of sorts. Her gown and spoken languages suggests she's a lady of high upbringing. Only Hugh and his sister aren't quite sure. Plus, there's the mysterious diamond found hidden in her ruined gown.
Grace Ware finds herself in a strange place. Not knowing who to trust. As she recovers, she pretends to not remember who she is...only when she finds out more of Hugh...her attraction grows and so does the danger that followed her to his home...

Can two enemies find love and be happy or will they be doomed?

Romancing the Scot was funny as well as sweet. I was hooked. My curiosity got the better of me, and I found myself in love. The characters were enticing. Their situations were entertaining to follow as the danger got more intense with every page. May McGoldrick is a talented writer. Overall, I highly recommend her historical novel to all.

I received this copy from Net Galley. This, is my voluntary review.

[Francoise · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story shines with fantastic heroes and a plot that was well thought-out and smart. I was genuinely caught up in the intricacies and details of the story and I could not put this book down!

Grace Ware’s father was an Irish colonel who fought on the side of the French during the Napoleonic wars. Her father is killed by strangers and Grace escapes sure death, trapped in a crate shipped from Antwerp to Scotland, barely surviving the crossing. The crate was sent to Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil, who also happens to be the Lord Justice in Edinburgh and was a high-ranking cavalry officer during the Napoleonic Wars. Obviously, Grace can’t tell him her true identity.

Hugh is a widow who has spent years grieving the loss of his wife and his young son. He is irresistibly drawn to Grace and is fascinated by her wit. He is a delicious hero, confident in his abilities, loyal and honorable. And yet Grace confronts him with his Court’s anti-Irish bias, prosecuting defendants for petty offences, simply because they are Irish. He accepts her findings, although it cuts him deeply that his sense of justice and fairness has failed.

The romance between Hugh and Grace is simply beautiful, I found that the attraction between them was wonderfully rendered. The authors did a great job of building up the tension. Hugh and Grace are not enemies but soulmates. Hugh fears for Grace’s safety and his love is demonstrated in actions and words.

Riveting storytelling, elegant writing style and wonderful characters, this book had it all! It was my first read by authors May McGoldrick, but it won’t be my last! “Romancing The Scot” is the first in a new series about the Pennington siblings and I can’t wait for more!
An advanced copy of this book was kindly provided by the publisher

[Kristy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Romancing the Scot is truly a complete story. There’s romance, friendship, family, suspense, intrigue...it has got a little of everything and it all melds together to create an enjoyable historical fiction romance.

Hugh as the hero was perfect. He's protective while still allowing independence and exudes kindness and mercy even while having a bit of a temper. On the other hand, it did take me a while to warm up to Grace, but she ends up a great match for Hugh. I liked all of the secondary characters, especially Jo (who I was excited to learn will be the main character in book 2!).

The writing is excellent and the story flows. Even though it takes place over a short period of time (around a month) and is fairly short (under 300 pages), I felt that the characters were able to evolve and the plot able to conclude without feeling rushed. I enjoyed the bit of suspense: who was after Grace and who's responsible for her father's death. It made the story into more than just a simple romance.

This was my first book by the writing duo known as May McGoldrick, but it will certainly not be my last. A perfect read for a rainy day under the blankets.

[Adria's Musings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews (Blog post MAY have additional content such as playlists, interviews, giveaways, etc).
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley/Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.


What’s it About? Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil, Lord Justice of the Scottish Courts finds more than he bargained for when his expected delivery contains a few unexpected items, a handful of American coins, a huge diamond, and a nearly dead woman. When she wakes with no memory of who she is or where she came from, the only thing Hugh knows for sure is that he needs to keep her safe despite the unwelcome curiosity and budding attraction he feels for her. Grace Ware is technically an enemy of the English crown. While she was in Antwerp, her father was murdered and she was forced to run for her life and hide in a crate which was then sealed and sent to Hugh. Aware that she’s in enemy territory, she pretends to have no memory of her past while she figures out what to do. In the meantime she grows close to Hugh and his sister and challenges Hugh to have a more open mind about the situations around him. Unfortunately trouble and danger follows Grace as unknown to her, she carries an important secret that could end her chance at happiness with Hugh permanently.





Overall reaction to the story? I thoroughly enjoyed Romancing the Scot! The setup and the conflicted position that Grace finds herself in made for quite the uphill battle, and Hugh? Get ready to swoon over him and fall in love with his family! The pacing and flow of the story was brisk and so easy to get into, I had fun with this historical romance because I’d never read one quite like this before. The conflict wasn’t too heavy that it outweighed the lighter aspects or the humor of the story. The characters were engaging, and like I said, Hugh’s family is the type that you fall in love with. May McGoldrick is a new-to-me-author and I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the name is the pseudonym for a husband/wife writing duo! They really balance each other out and I love their style!




Describe the hero in five words: Dashing. Kind. Funny. Daring. Nurturing.

Did you like him? Yes.

Why? I thought Hugh was absolutely delightful! He carried around a lot of heartache but instead of becoming broody and detached from the world he expressed his grief in his risky hobbies while still keeping a close relationship with his family. He was so kind and caring which isn’t common in heroes with his background. He was easy to like and way too easy to fall for but as easy going as he seemed, Hugh could turn into an alpha male in any situation that threatened his loved ones and that was also part of his appeal. He didn’t have to be in control all the time but when he did he didn’t hesitate.



Describe the heroine in five words: Courageous. Intelligent. Kind. Spirited. Loyal.

Did you like her? Yes.

Why? Grace was in such an impossible position from the very beginning and I felt so bad for her because she wasn’t a bad person, it’s just that her loyalty and love for her father put her in the enemy camp her whole life. She really had to think on her feet once she regained consciousness and found herself on Hugh’s property. I admired how she kept her wits about her and how she wasn’t prone to hysterics. I would have been understanding had she had a complete meltdown, it was a stressful situation she was in. At the same time Grace was still Grace, sweet, considerate, and unwilling to take advantage of her hosts. I loved her resilience.



Let’s talk about the romance: Hugh and Grace’s relationship was one of the best things about Romancing the Scot because it was sweet, funny, and passionate. These two were technically enemies but their compatible personalities won out over social and even political expectations. I loved the feeling of equality between this couple which normally doesn’t happen in historical romances but it did here and it felt so natural. With Grace’s background and skills it would have been odd if she wasn’t an active participant in her own rescue.



How about that supporting cast? Hugh’s family is just the best and even though you don’t meet all of them they have a big presence in Hugh’s life. The family is loving and close but it’s obvious they all have secret hurts and sorrows. Hugh’s sister Lady Josephine, or Jo as she’s affectionately known as, has such a big heart that was crushed when she was younger. She’s a definite spinster but seriously deserves someone who could see how special she is.


Click It or Skip It? Click It. Mystery, murder, passion, and friendship makes up the most enchanting romance!

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a very short space of time Grace Ware goes from looking after her ailing father to running for her life. Her special gift is not going to be much help to her when her traumatic journey ends.
Hugh Pennington, Viscount Greysteil is taking a break from his duties as Lord Justice of the Commissary Court to take delivery if his new toy. He was not expecting the gondola to be occupied.
This story is full of danger and intrigue . Our brave heroine has to use the full power of her incredible mind to ensure she will survive. Our hero is also a very clever and powerful man . He needs to use all his resources to get the future he wants.
An exciting story with fascinating characters.
I loved it.

[Deb Diem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romancing The Scot by May McGoldrick is an outstanding read. Ms. McGoldrick has delivered a well-written book. The characters in this book are phenomenal. Grace and Hugh's story is loaded with suspense, action, drama, humor and sizzle. This story grabbed me on page one and didn't let go until the last page. I loved reading Romancing The Scot and look forward to reading more from May McGoldrick in the future. Romancing The Scot is book 1 of The Pennington Family Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book that I received from NetGalley.