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Annwyn Chronicles #0.5
A Highlander Christmas
A festive paranormal romance anthology featuring three enchanting stories, three sexy Scotsmen, and a magical holiday setting.
For centuries, a mystical family heirloom—the MacDonald clan pin—has been passed down through the generations, helping each owner find her heart’s desire... A lost beauty melts the cold heart of a Jacobite warrior in Dawn Halliday’s Winter Heat. Stranded in a blizzard, Maggie MacDonald is rescued by Highland warrior, Logan Douglas. But a tempest of another kind brews when Logan discovers that Maggie has been promised to a cruel suitor. Sophie Renwick brings two strangers together with an unexpected Victorian Yuletide Enchantment. Isobel MacDonald is spending Christmas at her ancestral Highland estate when she loses her treasured clan pin in the woods. The enigmatic Prince Daegan offers his help in finding it—but the stranger’s charms are more powerful than she imagines. And the haunts of the past bring new meaning to the holidays in Cindy Miles’s contemporary A Christmas Spirit. Paige MacDonald’s Highland tour takes a surprising turn when a storm forces her to take refuge in a foreboding castle—already inhabited by the dead-sexy spirit of Gabriel Munro.
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2009
11 people are currently reading
657 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Halliday
17 books54 followersRaised on a boat in the South Pacific and in the quiet rainforests of Hawaii, Dawn Halliday had plenty of time to develop her overzealous imagination. Between exploring deserted atolls, swimming in churning seas, and exploring lava tubes, Dawn started dreaming up stories of love and adventure before she could read them.
When she's not traveling to exotic lands (which she can always justify as "research"), Dawn lives with her True Love and three rambunctious children in Southern California. She writes passionate historical and contemporary romance, and loves every minute of it.
When she's not traveling to exotic lands (which she can always justify as "research"), Dawn lives with her True Love and three rambunctious children in Southern California. She writes passionate historical and contemporary romance, and loves every minute of it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 20, 2009
Winter Heat
The first story in the anthology by Dawn Halliday is an intriguing one. Halliday weaves a tale of a beautiful, wounded clanswoman lost in the snow after escaping from her would-be rapist. Logan Douglas, on his way home from war, finds her along the way but loses an important piece of jewelry she treasures in the process. When Maggie MacDonald awakens, she finds herself entranced with Logan and his powerful, quiet ways. Over the next days, as a storm rages outside, they fall in love. But will Logan win Maggie? They have much at stake when she finally returns home.
I loved this story. My only issue with it has to do with the brooch Maggie wears. I won't give away the tie-in, but it felt as if Halliday had to throw in the last twist in the story because it is billed as a paranormal. I believe the story would've worked just as well without it.
Yuletide Enchantment
Isobel has been witnessing the appearance of a white hart since childhood. Known as mythical and magical creatures warning of the Otherworld, she's told to stay away while her brother wants to hunt it and make a trophy of the enormous rack of antlers. But Isobel feels there's something more to the hart and begs her brother not to kill it.
Daegan is prince of the Sidhe, and he's been watching Isobel from afar for years. He's determined to have her as his own. He appears to her as the white hart many times, luring her to him with enchantment spells.
When Isobel discovers that her hart is not exactly a man but not exactly an animal, she's confused and isn't sure how she should react. Daegan is hurt at her seeming repulsion.
Sophie Renwick wove a story even I would read. I found the story of the hart mythical and intriguing. A sucker for myths of all kinds, I found myself wondering if the white hart was an actual myth. The writing was compelling and interesting.
A Christmas Spirit
Paige MacDonald is lonely. With no family left, she's determined to not spend another Christmas by herself. Instead, she packs up her things and decides to spend Christmas on a self-driving tour of the Scottish Highlands. But she's surprised by a snowstorm only a few days before Christmas, and her car strands her at the driveway of a bed and breakfast. There, she's met with Gabriel Munro, a beautiful specimen of a man who happens to be a ghost.
When Paige discovers that Gabriel isn't exactly alive, she wants to run. But due to the snowstorm and Gabriel's assurances that he doesn't want to hurt her, she thinks it would be best to stay warm and dry for the evening instead of trying to find a way to Inverness where she has reservations.
Over the next few days, Paige and Gabriel spend time getting to know one another, and Paige is particularly interested in why Gabriel is a ghost trapped in an old castle.
Cindy Mile wrote the last tale in the book, and I think it might be my favorite of the three. While the ending wasn't exactly believable (I felt there were some gaps in the story), I loved how Paige and Gabriel fell in love. They really seemed to be soulmates who happened to be born centuries apart instead of months or years.
The first story in the anthology by Dawn Halliday is an intriguing one. Halliday weaves a tale of a beautiful, wounded clanswoman lost in the snow after escaping from her would-be rapist. Logan Douglas, on his way home from war, finds her along the way but loses an important piece of jewelry she treasures in the process. When Maggie MacDonald awakens, she finds herself entranced with Logan and his powerful, quiet ways. Over the next days, as a storm rages outside, they fall in love. But will Logan win Maggie? They have much at stake when she finally returns home.
I loved this story. My only issue with it has to do with the brooch Maggie wears. I won't give away the tie-in, but it felt as if Halliday had to throw in the last twist in the story because it is billed as a paranormal. I believe the story would've worked just as well without it.
Yuletide Enchantment
Isobel has been witnessing the appearance of a white hart since childhood. Known as mythical and magical creatures warning of the Otherworld, she's told to stay away while her brother wants to hunt it and make a trophy of the enormous rack of antlers. But Isobel feels there's something more to the hart and begs her brother not to kill it.
Daegan is prince of the Sidhe, and he's been watching Isobel from afar for years. He's determined to have her as his own. He appears to her as the white hart many times, luring her to him with enchantment spells.
When Isobel discovers that her hart is not exactly a man but not exactly an animal, she's confused and isn't sure how she should react. Daegan is hurt at her seeming repulsion.
Sophie Renwick wove a story even I would read. I found the story of the hart mythical and intriguing. A sucker for myths of all kinds, I found myself wondering if the white hart was an actual myth. The writing was compelling and interesting.
A Christmas Spirit
Paige MacDonald is lonely. With no family left, she's determined to not spend another Christmas by herself. Instead, she packs up her things and decides to spend Christmas on a self-driving tour of the Scottish Highlands. But she's surprised by a snowstorm only a few days before Christmas, and her car strands her at the driveway of a bed and breakfast. There, she's met with Gabriel Munro, a beautiful specimen of a man who happens to be a ghost.
When Paige discovers that Gabriel isn't exactly alive, she wants to run. But due to the snowstorm and Gabriel's assurances that he doesn't want to hurt her, she thinks it would be best to stay warm and dry for the evening instead of trying to find a way to Inverness where she has reservations.
Over the next few days, Paige and Gabriel spend time getting to know one another, and Paige is particularly interested in why Gabriel is a ghost trapped in an old castle.
Cindy Mile wrote the last tale in the book, and I think it might be my favorite of the three. While the ending wasn't exactly believable (I felt there were some gaps in the story), I loved how Paige and Gabriel fell in love. They really seemed to be soulmates who happened to be born centuries apart instead of months or years.
December 21, 2015
Scottish romances are my favorite stories from the historical romance genre. So when I ran across this book, I knew I had to read it for the holidays and I loved it! Which you can tell by my rating. It is a rare occurrence for me to rate an anthology five stars, but this book is exactly what I needed at the moment.
You will find that these stories are tied together by a common denominator, the MacDonald clan pin, which is passed down from generation to generation. All three stories also have a paranormal twist, the first one tells us about the magical ability of the pin, the second one involves a part Seelie part Unseelie (Fey) prince, and the third one has a sexy Highland ghost.
A great book for any historical/paranormal/holiday romance fan out there!
You will find that these stories are tied together by a common denominator, the MacDonald clan pin, which is passed down from generation to generation. All three stories also have a paranormal twist, the first one tells us about the magical ability of the pin, the second one involves a part Seelie part Unseelie (Fey) prince, and the third one has a sexy Highland ghost.
A great book for any historical/paranormal/holiday romance fan out there!
October 26, 2009
Usually, I don't rate anthologies very high-- average rating, about a 3.5 or so is common for me. But with Highlander Christmas, there was no doubt in my mind that it would receive a 5 Star rating when I finished the last page!
When you get three very talented, very popular authors together, and have their stories all published in one book, you're sure to get one spectacular novel out of the deal! And with Highlander Christmas, that's what happened!
I don't even know where to begin-- all three stories were great, and I so loved reading each and every one!
Dawn's story, the first in the novel, could quite possibly be my all-time favorite of the three, if I had to choose. I almost forgot that her story was supposed to be a novella, part of an anthology, and therefore shorter in pages than usual-- you can't even tell! Why? Because the characters came alive in the pages, flourished and developed, and the connection, the love, between hero and heroine was clearly there, and very well done. Something that, usually, can be a bit challenging to accomplish in a shortened novel.
But Dawn, well, I already knew from her previous work that she could do it, and once again she managed to grab me from page one, and wrap the magic of her story-telling around me until the very end. Touching, passionate, and witty, I loved her "Winter Heat", which will definitely help to keep a reader warm during the upcoming winter evenings, snuggled up by the fire with this book!
Next up was Sophie's "Yuletide Enchantment". Now, I've not yet read any of Sophie's contemporary romances, but I've been anxiously awaiting her upcoming paranormal series-- and this short novel is a bit of a prequel, I guess you could call it, for said series.
After reading this one, my mind was still a bit numb-- wow! I thought the plot/theme alone was very unique, not the usual ones filling the shelves today, and the story flowed nicely-- again, I almost couldn't tell it was a novella instead of a full length! The only problem, if you could call it that, is that the story teased me, leaving off at the end, and torturing me until the first novel, Velvet Haven, comes out this next year! *Cries* Otherwise, the characters were well done (and the hero, by the way, is very yummy!), there was plenty of romance, action, and a good dash of magic to captivate the reader!
The last story was Cindy's "A Christmas Spirit". I've read one of her books before, and I did enjoy it, so I had a fairly good idea of what to expect in this one-- and again, I wasn't disappointed. Although, to be honest, out of the three I would have to say this one would receive my lowest rating on it's own (but no lower than 4 stars, if that!), it was only because I didn't quiet feel the pull between the hero and heroine in her story. It was there, but it felt like it was a bit, well, rushed, like most novellas, and it only came in stronger at the very end. But I do enjoy her writing still, I always find a few witty areas and more than a few "Aw!" ones as well.
5 STARS! Over all, these three well-known authors worked their magic over the reader, pulling them in, and holding them in thrall until the very end. Wonderful, enchanting, and passionately written, these three paranormal Christmas novellas will leave you wanting only one thing: the hero to have as your own! Move over, fated heroines, you're going to have competition soon!
When you get three very talented, very popular authors together, and have their stories all published in one book, you're sure to get one spectacular novel out of the deal! And with Highlander Christmas, that's what happened!
I don't even know where to begin-- all three stories were great, and I so loved reading each and every one!
Dawn's story, the first in the novel, could quite possibly be my all-time favorite of the three, if I had to choose. I almost forgot that her story was supposed to be a novella, part of an anthology, and therefore shorter in pages than usual-- you can't even tell! Why? Because the characters came alive in the pages, flourished and developed, and the connection, the love, between hero and heroine was clearly there, and very well done. Something that, usually, can be a bit challenging to accomplish in a shortened novel.
But Dawn, well, I already knew from her previous work that she could do it, and once again she managed to grab me from page one, and wrap the magic of her story-telling around me until the very end. Touching, passionate, and witty, I loved her "Winter Heat", which will definitely help to keep a reader warm during the upcoming winter evenings, snuggled up by the fire with this book!
Next up was Sophie's "Yuletide Enchantment". Now, I've not yet read any of Sophie's contemporary romances, but I've been anxiously awaiting her upcoming paranormal series-- and this short novel is a bit of a prequel, I guess you could call it, for said series.
After reading this one, my mind was still a bit numb-- wow! I thought the plot/theme alone was very unique, not the usual ones filling the shelves today, and the story flowed nicely-- again, I almost couldn't tell it was a novella instead of a full length! The only problem, if you could call it that, is that the story teased me, leaving off at the end, and torturing me until the first novel, Velvet Haven, comes out this next year! *Cries* Otherwise, the characters were well done (and the hero, by the way, is very yummy!), there was plenty of romance, action, and a good dash of magic to captivate the reader!
The last story was Cindy's "A Christmas Spirit". I've read one of her books before, and I did enjoy it, so I had a fairly good idea of what to expect in this one-- and again, I wasn't disappointed. Although, to be honest, out of the three I would have to say this one would receive my lowest rating on it's own (but no lower than 4 stars, if that!), it was only because I didn't quiet feel the pull between the hero and heroine in her story. It was there, but it felt like it was a bit, well, rushed, like most novellas, and it only came in stronger at the very end. But I do enjoy her writing still, I always find a few witty areas and more than a few "Aw!" ones as well.
5 STARS! Over all, these three well-known authors worked their magic over the reader, pulling them in, and holding them in thrall until the very end. Wonderful, enchanting, and passionately written, these three paranormal Christmas novellas will leave you wanting only one thing: the hero to have as your own! Move over, fated heroines, you're going to have competition soon!
April 14, 2015
LOVED the book! I wasn't aware it was by 3 different authors until I started it. Loved each of the romance stories that centered around the magical time of Christmas, the new Laird, the Fey, and a Ghost! I loved every story and was sad when I finished it!
December 15, 2020
I don’t know, maybe it’s the swooning romance, or the brawny Highlanders, or I’m just feeling the spirit of the season (no, seriously, there’s a lot of whiskey in my eggnog) but - that was a fantastic book!
Fellow readers, this anthology may not be everyone’s cup o’ tea (if not, just turn it into a hot toddy and call it a day) but if one is looking for short but steamy stories with a mystical Yuletide feel and a Scottish brogue, then these authors may have the perfect gift wrapped in a bow...or, in this case, a plaid?
Oh my.
There are three separate stories however, they are all linked by a seemingly magical brooch, passed on between generations of MacDonald women.
The first story ‘Winter Heat’ by Dawn Halliday is a historical romance between Maggie MacDonald and Logan Douglas. It more or less had a feel of two lost souls fortuitously finding one another in their troubling lives, based not only on true love but also devout honour. My only teeny tiny minor criticism is that sometimes both hero and heroine became annoying in being so dutiful that it morphed into a stubbornness that almost ruined their HEA (not to worry, everyone thankfully came to their senses). A great story, though, with a good dose of steam!
The second story ‘Yuletide Enchantment’ by Sophie Renwick was my favourite, also a historical romance but centred around Celtic mythology between Isobel MacDonald and Daegan, Prince of the Sidhe. Seductive is the word I would use to describe this story, as well as being ‘verra’ steamy. No worries, the heroine isn’t lured into the clutches of the hero against her will. On the contrary, true love prevails in overcoming obstacles that seemingly stand in the way of a happily ever after. It was also surprising to find out that this author is a fellow Canadian, from Ontario no less! I liked the story so much that I’ll definitely look into more reading material by this writer.
The third story ‘ A Christmas Spirit’ by Cindy Miles is a contemporary/paranormal romance between Paige MacDonald and Gabriel Munro. This was more of a sweet and most certainly emotional story of a love that spanned centuries and yet brought the hero and heroine together at last. A misunderstanding of course almost brings about the demise of their love for one another, if not for a chance encounter with one of Gabriel’s descendants who luckily saves the day. Again, just a minor criticism is the story feels a little rushed near the end with a few details left unexplained, presumably in a bid to wrap things up (no pun intended) as it is after all meant to be a short story. Nevertheless, this was a sigh worthy romance with a little steam at the end. Oh yeah, there’s also a ghost. And, an enchantment that lasts more than seven hundred years. Don’t ask me how the author makes it work, she just does.
Three great romances that’ll warm things up during a chilly Yuletide in the Highlands or anywhere one may be trying to keep cozy. These stories may be a little far fetched for some but they are fictional and, if nothing else, at the very least entertaining.
Mmm, I think reading this book may become a yearly holiday tradition for me. Have a Yule that’s cool, everyone!
Fellow readers, this anthology may not be everyone’s cup o’ tea (if not, just turn it into a hot toddy and call it a day) but if one is looking for short but steamy stories with a mystical Yuletide feel and a Scottish brogue, then these authors may have the perfect gift wrapped in a bow...or, in this case, a plaid?
Oh my.
There are three separate stories however, they are all linked by a seemingly magical brooch, passed on between generations of MacDonald women.
The first story ‘Winter Heat’ by Dawn Halliday is a historical romance between Maggie MacDonald and Logan Douglas. It more or less had a feel of two lost souls fortuitously finding one another in their troubling lives, based not only on true love but also devout honour. My only teeny tiny minor criticism is that sometimes both hero and heroine became annoying in being so dutiful that it morphed into a stubbornness that almost ruined their HEA (not to worry, everyone thankfully came to their senses). A great story, though, with a good dose of steam!
The second story ‘Yuletide Enchantment’ by Sophie Renwick was my favourite, also a historical romance but centred around Celtic mythology between Isobel MacDonald and Daegan, Prince of the Sidhe. Seductive is the word I would use to describe this story, as well as being ‘verra’ steamy. No worries, the heroine isn’t lured into the clutches of the hero against her will. On the contrary, true love prevails in overcoming obstacles that seemingly stand in the way of a happily ever after. It was also surprising to find out that this author is a fellow Canadian, from Ontario no less! I liked the story so much that I’ll definitely look into more reading material by this writer.
The third story ‘ A Christmas Spirit’ by Cindy Miles is a contemporary/paranormal romance between Paige MacDonald and Gabriel Munro. This was more of a sweet and most certainly emotional story of a love that spanned centuries and yet brought the hero and heroine together at last. A misunderstanding of course almost brings about the demise of their love for one another, if not for a chance encounter with one of Gabriel’s descendants who luckily saves the day. Again, just a minor criticism is the story feels a little rushed near the end with a few details left unexplained, presumably in a bid to wrap things up (no pun intended) as it is after all meant to be a short story. Nevertheless, this was a sigh worthy romance with a little steam at the end. Oh yeah, there’s also a ghost. And, an enchantment that lasts more than seven hundred years. Don’t ask me how the author makes it work, she just does.
Three great romances that’ll warm things up during a chilly Yuletide in the Highlands or anywhere one may be trying to keep cozy. These stories may be a little far fetched for some but they are fictional and, if nothing else, at the very least entertaining.
Mmm, I think reading this book may become a yearly holiday tradition for me. Have a Yule that’s cool, everyone!
December 31, 2018
The final story, "A Christmas Spirit," began as my favorite; I saw a lot of myself in the female lead and could definitely imagine myself doing exactly what she did, with the ill-conceived trip overseas to escape the uneventful, intensely lonely Christmas at home. And then, as the conclusion of the tale approached, the male lead started telling the female lead, over and over and over again, that she was his. This is an issue I've had before with romance novels, and it still holds true. It's the freaking 21st century; why are male leads still calling their ladies "Mine" as if they're property to be owned? And as I've said before, it would bother me a lot less if the ladies would do the same thing, but they're always too busy kissing these possessive boobs to say anything. I just want a little reciprocal possession! Either respect me as a people and not your property, or let me talk about you like you're my property, too! >.<
I found the second story, "Yuletide Enchantment," creepiest. It was kind of rapey. "I've been watching you for years and now that you're old enough (barely, and only because this is supposed to be the 1800s), I'm going to make you come to my bedroom with a spell, and then we're going to have sex, but you won't know it until we're done." Dude.
The first story, "Winter Heat," is objectively the best, but I connected with it less than "A Christmas Spirit." It probably wins the title of "favorite," but if the ghosty had said "I'm yours" instead of "You're mine," it would not have won that honor.
I found the second story, "Yuletide Enchantment," creepiest. It was kind of rapey. "I've been watching you for years and now that you're old enough (barely, and only because this is supposed to be the 1800s), I'm going to make you come to my bedroom with a spell, and then we're going to have sex, but you won't know it until we're done." Dude.
The first story, "Winter Heat," is objectively the best, but I connected with it less than "A Christmas Spirit." It probably wins the title of "favorite," but if the ghosty had said "I'm yours" instead of "You're mine," it would not have won that honor.
November 27, 2012
This anthology is not only about Highlanders and Christmas (two of my favorite things) but it also intertwines each story into the MacDonald (or Munroe) clan throughout 3 different time periods.
Winter Heart by Dawn Halliday
Scottish Highlands, 1715
When Maggie MacDonald is abducted from her cottage by Innes Munroe she knows that she faces defilement, abuse and violence if she can't escape. Innes intentions toward the lovely window will happily involve assault if she fights because he's tired of waiting for her to come around on her own. After suffering a few of Innes blows and learning that her young cousin and Laird Torean has promised her to Innes, the Munroe lairds brother, Maggie devises a risky plan. Using the only weapon she has, her deceased mother's unusual brooch, she stabs Innes and flees into a blizzard. Innes quickly abandons his search in favor of a willing wench to warm his bed this night. If Maggie wishes to die in the blizzard rather than warm his bed then so be it.
After escaping capture by the Duke of Argyll's men, Logan has been endlessly walking back home. When a blizzard and his on weariness take there toll he must stop at an abandoned cabin for a few hours rest. He's returning after the battle at Sheriffmuir where he suffered a bayonet wound to his thigh and lost his Laird and brother. He must return home and assume his brother's responsibilities which include his lands and family. After a night of sleep he sets out and discovers a frozen and lifeless Maggie buried in the snow. He doesn't know how she got there but he feels instantly protective of her and vows that whoever hurt her will pay.
This is a straightforward story where the characters, who are both needing and missing something in their lives build a cozy little connection while living together in an abandoned cottage during a blizzard. The care for one another, the laugh with one another and eventually the love one another but when they return Maggie to her clan they both realize that they want more. But Maggie has been promised in marriage to a neighboring clan in an effort to build an alliance. There is a bit of grit and violence and sweetness with plenty of steam for the time period and length.
Yuletide Enchantment by Sophie Renwick
December 20, 1869 The Highlands of Scotland
Isobel MacDonald has seen the White Hart many times throughout her life. The first being at age 6 and the most recent being today at age 21. Her brothers have decided that the elusive hart needs hunted and mounted on her father's hearth - a fitting Christmas gift. Isobel demands that they leave the majestic beast alone and her supporters, the superstitious retainer Alistair Douglas and the Earl of St. Clair, agree but are outnumbered. The stag who remains at a distance until the brother's reveal that Isobel has been promised to the Earl, at which point the stag charges, right toward St. Clair.
Daegan, Prince of the Sidhe (and The White Hart) has watched the mortal Isobel for years. When Isobel returns to the woods that night and finds him wounded, in his hart form, she is gentle and caring and Daegan revels in her touch and smell. He has decided that she is his soul mate and nothing will keep him from her, even if he had to break Sidhe law to have her.
If you don't know the story surrounding the Sidhe and the White Hart this short story offers a nice introduction into the mysticism of the Sidhe which also comes with a dark side. This story was really great up to a point and I was really impressed. Then suddenly Isobel and Daegan's story felt more like an antecedent event and not it's own story. There was this sort of long build up with a bit of steaminess and other-worldliness then bam! there's a rushed conclusion and the you realize that shape shifter Bran's story (Daegan's cousin) is really who you are being prepped for. I was satisfied with the tale in the end and it did make me curious to know if this story is a prelude to more (It is) but because of the darkness of most Sidhe stories I'm not sure I will rush to read the rest of this series though I am adding it to the TBR pile.
A Christmas Spirit by Cindy Miles
December, present day. Somewhere near Inverness, North West Highlands
Paige MacDonald has decided that she won't spend another lonely holiday in her tiny apartment in Virgina so she's bought herself a self-driving tour to visit from where her ancestors hail. She hadn't anticipated the snow storm moving in or that fact that her rental car would strand her in the middle of nowhere though. Wrapping her scarf more tightly around her she trudges her way through the snow in the direction of a B&B she saw a sign for.
Gabriel Munro has been trapped in Gorloch castle since his murder on the eve of his 28 birthday in 1143. He lives with the elderly Craigmire couple who run the castle as a B&B when not in London visiting their kids and grandkids. It's just Gabriel's luck that a lovely, melancholy, nearly frozen tourist would end up on his doorstep now. He refuses to answer the door until she begs to just use the phone to call for help. When he opens that door and admits Paige MacDonald in he has no idea that his whole life, I mean afterlife, is about to change.
I won't lie and say I don't like (need/want) some naughty bits with my stories but this one had nearly none seeings how she's a human and he's a ghost but it was still such a steamy little story and really sweet. A quick perusal of Miles' other books reveals that this ghost stuck in the present is kind of her shtick. Characters Amelia and Ethan Munroe (of the Munroe's from story #1) make an appearance and are the H/h in Highland Knight. I think I'll be adding these to my TBR pile.
Winter Heart by Dawn Halliday
Scottish Highlands, 1715
When Maggie MacDonald is abducted from her cottage by Innes Munroe she knows that she faces defilement, abuse and violence if she can't escape. Innes intentions toward the lovely window will happily involve assault if she fights because he's tired of waiting for her to come around on her own. After suffering a few of Innes blows and learning that her young cousin and Laird Torean has promised her to Innes, the Munroe lairds brother, Maggie devises a risky plan. Using the only weapon she has, her deceased mother's unusual brooch, she stabs Innes and flees into a blizzard. Innes quickly abandons his search in favor of a willing wench to warm his bed this night. If Maggie wishes to die in the blizzard rather than warm his bed then so be it.
After escaping capture by the Duke of Argyll's men, Logan has been endlessly walking back home. When a blizzard and his on weariness take there toll he must stop at an abandoned cabin for a few hours rest. He's returning after the battle at Sheriffmuir where he suffered a bayonet wound to his thigh and lost his Laird and brother. He must return home and assume his brother's responsibilities which include his lands and family. After a night of sleep he sets out and discovers a frozen and lifeless Maggie buried in the snow. He doesn't know how she got there but he feels instantly protective of her and vows that whoever hurt her will pay.
This is a straightforward story where the characters, who are both needing and missing something in their lives build a cozy little connection while living together in an abandoned cottage during a blizzard. The care for one another, the laugh with one another and eventually the love one another but when they return Maggie to her clan they both realize that they want more. But Maggie has been promised in marriage to a neighboring clan in an effort to build an alliance. There is a bit of grit and violence and sweetness with plenty of steam for the time period and length.
Yuletide Enchantment by Sophie Renwick
December 20, 1869 The Highlands of Scotland
Isobel MacDonald has seen the White Hart many times throughout her life. The first being at age 6 and the most recent being today at age 21. Her brothers have decided that the elusive hart needs hunted and mounted on her father's hearth - a fitting Christmas gift. Isobel demands that they leave the majestic beast alone and her supporters, the superstitious retainer Alistair Douglas and the Earl of St. Clair, agree but are outnumbered. The stag who remains at a distance until the brother's reveal that Isobel has been promised to the Earl, at which point the stag charges, right toward St. Clair.
Daegan, Prince of the Sidhe (and The White Hart) has watched the mortal Isobel for years. When Isobel returns to the woods that night and finds him wounded, in his hart form, she is gentle and caring and Daegan revels in her touch and smell. He has decided that she is his soul mate and nothing will keep him from her, even if he had to break Sidhe law to have her.
If you don't know the story surrounding the Sidhe and the White Hart this short story offers a nice introduction into the mysticism of the Sidhe which also comes with a dark side. This story was really great up to a point and I was really impressed. Then suddenly Isobel and Daegan's story felt more like an antecedent event and not it's own story. There was this sort of long build up with a bit of steaminess and other-worldliness then bam! there's a rushed conclusion and the you realize that shape shifter Bran's story (Daegan's cousin) is really who you are being prepped for. I was satisfied with the tale in the end and it did make me curious to know if this story is a prelude to more (It is) but because of the darkness of most Sidhe stories I'm not sure I will rush to read the rest of this series though I am adding it to the TBR pile.
A Christmas Spirit by Cindy Miles
December, present day. Somewhere near Inverness, North West Highlands
Paige MacDonald has decided that she won't spend another lonely holiday in her tiny apartment in Virgina so she's bought herself a self-driving tour to visit from where her ancestors hail. She hadn't anticipated the snow storm moving in or that fact that her rental car would strand her in the middle of nowhere though. Wrapping her scarf more tightly around her she trudges her way through the snow in the direction of a B&B she saw a sign for.
Gabriel Munro has been trapped in Gorloch castle since his murder on the eve of his 28 birthday in 1143. He lives with the elderly Craigmire couple who run the castle as a B&B when not in London visiting their kids and grandkids. It's just Gabriel's luck that a lovely, melancholy, nearly frozen tourist would end up on his doorstep now. He refuses to answer the door until she begs to just use the phone to call for help. When he opens that door and admits Paige MacDonald in he has no idea that his whole life, I mean afterlife, is about to change.
I won't lie and say I don't like (need/want) some naughty bits with my stories but this one had nearly none seeings how she's a human and he's a ghost but it was still such a steamy little story and really sweet. A quick perusal of Miles' other books reveals that this ghost stuck in the present is kind of her shtick. Characters Amelia and Ethan Munroe (of the Munroe's from story #1) make an appearance and are the H/h in Highland Knight. I think I'll be adding these to my TBR pile.
September 23, 2019
I really enjoyed all three stories in this collection and they couldn't have been more different. The first is a historical romance, the second is more magical with fairies and the third is modern with a ghost. I think my favorites were Dawn Halliday's Winter Heat (the historical) and Cindy Miles' Christmas Spirit (the modern ghost), although I did have a slight issue with how that one ended I liked it enough to want to read more by Miles. The second one (with the fairies) was well written and kept my attention but the ending kind of felt rushed (perhaps because this is a prequel to her Annwyn series??).
But a great collection and if you like Christmas romance and Scottish romance this is a great combo
But a great collection and if you like Christmas romance and Scottish romance this is a great combo
May 28, 2018
Are there better things than highlanders?No! <3
April 2, 2022
Smoking hot stories!
December 26, 2024
A lovely collection of Highlander romance stories set during Christmas time.
October 19, 2015
My review originally posted on Joyfully Reviewed: http://www.joyfullyreviewed.com/revie...
“Winter Heat” by Dawn Halliday
Maggie MacDonald’s mother always told her that her clan brooch would lead a MacDonald woman to her soul mate. Maggie doesn’t believe the legend, but she does find the brooch helpful in her last-ditch attempt to flee a brutish suitor. Her escape sends Maggie into a blizzard…and then into the arms of warrior Logan Douglas. Attraction flares, but in order for their holiday romance to last, Logan must find a way to free Maggie of the villain who wishes to possess her.
The protagonists in this enjoyable story by Dawn Halliday could melt snow with the kind of heat they generate. “Winter Heat” is a sexy story about finding love where you least expect it. Both Maggie and Logan are likeable characters, each with strengths and weaknesses that complement one another. The villain is suitably despicable, making the reader cheer all the more for Maggie and Logan. This is the first story I’ve ever read by Ms. Halliday and I look forward to reading more of her work.
“Yuletide Enchantment” by Sophie Renwick
All her life, Isobel MacDonald has felt a connection to the white hart in the woods. She doesn’t put much stock in the ancient tales of Annwyn or the Sidhe said to inhabit the woods, but Isobel can’t put her finger on why she is repeatedly drawn to the forest. At least not until she loses her clan pin. It’s then that she meets Daegan, the Sidhe prince, and also the white hart Isobel has seen since she was a child. But love between a Sidhe and a mortal is forbidden, so when Daegan and Isobel fall for one another, what are they to do?
Something sensual lurks in the woods in the magic-filled “Yuletide Enchantment.” Sophie Renwick creates two likeable protagonists and sets the stage for some interesting scenes as Isobel and Daegan fall in love. However, I was left with many questions at the end of the story which kept me from liking “Yuletide Enchantment” as much as I wanted to. However, I am excited to read Ms. Renwick’s book for Daegan’s nephew Bran.
“A Christmas Spirit” by Cindy Miles
Paige MacDonald doesn’t know what possessed her to book a self-driving tour of the North West Highlands in December. When her car breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, Paige takes refuge at the Gorloch B&B, a castle inhabited by the most unusual of Highlanders.
Gabriel Munro can’t believe the innkeepers left him alone for the holidays. He was sure the weather would keep visitors away, but he can’t very well turn out a woman in the middle of a blizzard. Especially not a woman as tempting as Paige. But what will Paige say when she learns that the man she is trapped in the castle with is a ghost?
Spirits have never been so sexy as in this enchanting story by Cindy Miles. “A Christmas Spirit” is my favorite story in this anthology; it’s both charming and unique. I liked Paige immensely. She’s intelligent, hardworking, and not used to a man practically falling all over himself for her. As for Gabriel, he’s a Highland ghost worth sighing over (and I admit I did).
“A Christmas Spirit” is the first story I’ve read by Ms. Miles, but it won’t be the last. Characters from Ms. Miles’s Highland Knight appear in this tale and I liked them so much I want to go back and their story.
A Highlander Christmas features stories that span over nearly three hundred years. The only connection between each tale is the heroines’ pin. I enjoyed the concept and the progression through time and each story featured its protagonists overcoming seemingly impossible odds to be together. A Highlander Christmas was a satisfying anthology, perfect for curling up with on a cold winter’s night.
“Winter Heat” by Dawn Halliday
Maggie MacDonald’s mother always told her that her clan brooch would lead a MacDonald woman to her soul mate. Maggie doesn’t believe the legend, but she does find the brooch helpful in her last-ditch attempt to flee a brutish suitor. Her escape sends Maggie into a blizzard…and then into the arms of warrior Logan Douglas. Attraction flares, but in order for their holiday romance to last, Logan must find a way to free Maggie of the villain who wishes to possess her.
The protagonists in this enjoyable story by Dawn Halliday could melt snow with the kind of heat they generate. “Winter Heat” is a sexy story about finding love where you least expect it. Both Maggie and Logan are likeable characters, each with strengths and weaknesses that complement one another. The villain is suitably despicable, making the reader cheer all the more for Maggie and Logan. This is the first story I’ve ever read by Ms. Halliday and I look forward to reading more of her work.
“Yuletide Enchantment” by Sophie Renwick
All her life, Isobel MacDonald has felt a connection to the white hart in the woods. She doesn’t put much stock in the ancient tales of Annwyn or the Sidhe said to inhabit the woods, but Isobel can’t put her finger on why she is repeatedly drawn to the forest. At least not until she loses her clan pin. It’s then that she meets Daegan, the Sidhe prince, and also the white hart Isobel has seen since she was a child. But love between a Sidhe and a mortal is forbidden, so when Daegan and Isobel fall for one another, what are they to do?
Something sensual lurks in the woods in the magic-filled “Yuletide Enchantment.” Sophie Renwick creates two likeable protagonists and sets the stage for some interesting scenes as Isobel and Daegan fall in love. However, I was left with many questions at the end of the story which kept me from liking “Yuletide Enchantment” as much as I wanted to. However, I am excited to read Ms. Renwick’s book for Daegan’s nephew Bran.
“A Christmas Spirit” by Cindy Miles
Paige MacDonald doesn’t know what possessed her to book a self-driving tour of the North West Highlands in December. When her car breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, Paige takes refuge at the Gorloch B&B, a castle inhabited by the most unusual of Highlanders.
Gabriel Munro can’t believe the innkeepers left him alone for the holidays. He was sure the weather would keep visitors away, but he can’t very well turn out a woman in the middle of a blizzard. Especially not a woman as tempting as Paige. But what will Paige say when she learns that the man she is trapped in the castle with is a ghost?
Spirits have never been so sexy as in this enchanting story by Cindy Miles. “A Christmas Spirit” is my favorite story in this anthology; it’s both charming and unique. I liked Paige immensely. She’s intelligent, hardworking, and not used to a man practically falling all over himself for her. As for Gabriel, he’s a Highland ghost worth sighing over (and I admit I did).
“A Christmas Spirit” is the first story I’ve read by Ms. Miles, but it won’t be the last. Characters from Ms. Miles’s Highland Knight appear in this tale and I liked them so much I want to go back and their story.
A Highlander Christmas features stories that span over nearly three hundred years. The only connection between each tale is the heroines’ pin. I enjoyed the concept and the progression through time and each story featured its protagonists overcoming seemingly impossible odds to be together. A Highlander Christmas was a satisfying anthology, perfect for curling up with on a cold winter’s night.
January 20, 2012
Winter Heat review- This story wasn't really a paranormal story it was just a Christmas romance with a twist. The paranormal aspect of this story felt like it was throw in at the end almost like the author remembered at the end that it was supposed to be a paranormal story. Having said that I liked this story it was sweet and but don't feel like it's a story that is very memorable. I did like the story enough that I will look up this author and read other books.
Christmas Spirit review- I really liked this story Paige was a very likable character and Gabriel was the kind of Highland hunk I love to read about. I found that I couldn't wait until the end to see how these two would be able to be together. Lots of couple have problems but being a spirit is a huge problem. These two couldn't touch but they end up falling in love. I will most definitely get other books by this author.
Yuletide Enchantment- This was my favorite of the three. This is the beginning of the series and I'm trying to get the others now. The connection between Prince Daegan and Isobel McDonald was jumping off the page as I read. I could feel the love and devotion Prince Daegan felt for Isobel in the way he protected her as the years went by. Isobel is a sweet and caring young woman that is easy as a reader to care about. My only complaint would be that the book ended to soon I could have read their story for another hundred pages or more.
This was the first time I read a story by each of these authors and I liked them all. I would recommend this book to anyone with a love of paranormal romance.
Christmas Spirit review- I really liked this story Paige was a very likable character and Gabriel was the kind of Highland hunk I love to read about. I found that I couldn't wait until the end to see how these two would be able to be together. Lots of couple have problems but being a spirit is a huge problem. These two couldn't touch but they end up falling in love. I will most definitely get other books by this author.
Yuletide Enchantment- This was my favorite of the three. This is the beginning of the series and I'm trying to get the others now. The connection between Prince Daegan and Isobel McDonald was jumping off the page as I read. I could feel the love and devotion Prince Daegan felt for Isobel in the way he protected her as the years went by. Isobel is a sweet and caring young woman that is easy as a reader to care about. My only complaint would be that the book ended to soon I could have read their story for another hundred pages or more.
This was the first time I read a story by each of these authors and I liked them all. I would recommend this book to anyone with a love of paranormal romance.
November 12, 2012
I thought this anthology was a very enjoyable read.
The first story by Dawn Halliday was wonderful. It was the first I have read of her work, and If you love a sexy, strong, protective hero you will love this story. I definitely will be reading more of Halliday's stories.
The second story by Sophie Renwick has more of a paranormal slant to it. It reminded me a bit of Moning's work about the Sidhe or the Fae, but with a little different slant to it. The end of the story left me with questions, but now that I learn that the story is supposed to be a lead-in to a series, it makes more sense.
The third story by Cindy Miles was wonderful. I loved the unfolding love story of the lost American tourist and the sexy ancient Highland warrior ghost. It may sound like a very unbelievable premise, but the author makes it easy to just believe and get lost in the story. I even found myself teary-eyed when
it seemed like they would never be able to be together. I won't spoil it with the ending. I will definitely be looking for more of Cindy Miles' stories.
All in all, the book was a fun and heartwarming read. I just happened to read it during some of the first snowfalls of the season here in Minnesota, which fit right in with the stories. I highly recommend this book
The first story by Dawn Halliday was wonderful. It was the first I have read of her work, and If you love a sexy, strong, protective hero you will love this story. I definitely will be reading more of Halliday's stories.
The second story by Sophie Renwick has more of a paranormal slant to it. It reminded me a bit of Moning's work about the Sidhe or the Fae, but with a little different slant to it. The end of the story left me with questions, but now that I learn that the story is supposed to be a lead-in to a series, it makes more sense.
The third story by Cindy Miles was wonderful. I loved the unfolding love story of the lost American tourist and the sexy ancient Highland warrior ghost. It may sound like a very unbelievable premise, but the author makes it easy to just believe and get lost in the story. I even found myself teary-eyed when
it seemed like they would never be able to be together. I won't spoil it with the ending. I will definitely be looking for more of Cindy Miles' stories.
All in all, the book was a fun and heartwarming read. I just happened to read it during some of the first snowfalls of the season here in Minnesota, which fit right in with the stories. I highly recommend this book
October 25, 2010
I purchased this book because Sophie Renwick had contributed a piece that was a pre-read for the Annwyn series. The first novella was a nice read. It was romantic and made me want to curl up in front of a fire with a hot highlander. The Yule story was a welcome backdrop to this contribution. The story of the pin carried through the three stories. Novella two was Sophie's. It was a magical tale that involved shapeshifting. It wasn't my favorite that she's done, but was enjoyable. My favorite piece was the third novella about a Highlander ghost and an American woman who found herself stranded near a castle. The story was heart-felt and romantic. None of the novellas were overtly sexual in nature, but were steamy-pleasing just the same. I would recommend this read to anyone wanting to curl up on the couch and prepare for a "hot Yule!"
August 30, 2016
It's a little difficult to rate this since it's 3 stories by 3 different authors. On the other hand it's interesting how other readers like this or the other story best. :)
My favourite was the third story that I enjoyed the most - loved the characters, it was sweet and fun and made me want to read more.
The other two stories were just a little... less to me.
I liked the first story, but the paranormal touch seemed a little constructed to me. The story could have done without it as it didn't seem that relevant really.
The second story was a great idea, but (yes, I know it's a short story) in the end was too rushed. It left me feeling like... what? What now? That was kind of an abrupt ending and all... If you know what I mean.
All in all an enjoyable and *different* winter / Yule / Christmas read. :)
My favourite was the third story that I enjoyed the most - loved the characters, it was sweet and fun and made me want to read more.
The other two stories were just a little... less to me.
I liked the first story, but the paranormal touch seemed a little constructed to me. The story could have done without it as it didn't seem that relevant really.
The second story was a great idea, but (yes, I know it's a short story) in the end was too rushed. It left me feeling like... what? What now? That was kind of an abrupt ending and all... If you know what I mean.
All in all an enjoyable and *different* winter / Yule / Christmas read. :)
January 30, 2010
Published in November, 2009, this is a delightful anthology in which three excellent writers give us some really great stories. I love Scotland and I adore Highland novels. These stories are winsome and so readable, embracing characters that are believable, warm, genuine, and people you would love to know in real life. Set in a variety of historical periods, they propel the reader into their scenarios so easily and the reader is immediately engaged in the story. All are such good romantic tales. In the UK, especially in Scotland today, both men and women use the work "lovely" to describe something that inspires a positive response. I can say that these stories--this anthology of stories--are truly lovely.
October 1, 2010
This book was to be the prequal/intro to the Chronicals of Annwyn. It touches back on the ancestry of the Velvet Haven Charcters. Its 3 short stories in 1 book. Each story is unique and good. However, I found it a bit confusing trying to figure out the ties between the 1st and 3rd stories. The 2nd story is more based on Chronicals of Annwyn - Bran and his curse, his uncles and why he cursed. Over all, it was a good read, but I liked the 2nd story the best and wish there was more to lead up to Velvet Haven and answer more of the hows and why (ie. Suriel and what happened w/whom and some of the others).
October 7, 2021
I bought this back in 2009 when it was first published...because of the cover. I read it every year at Christmas. Three stories, involving MacDonald ladies of 1715, 1869, and present day. Each story has a paranormal aspect to it involving a clan pin passed down through the generations. Three intelligent ladies who meet three heroes. Each story is well developed and well written. I will keep reading this each year until my copy falls apart and then I'll get the ebook.
December 2017: Surprisingly I really like the present day story as well as the others even though I tend to favor historical.
September 2021: One of my favorite Christmas reads.
December 2017: Surprisingly I really like the present day story as well as the others even though I tend to favor historical.
September 2021: One of my favorite Christmas reads.
November 3, 2010
I waited a very long time to get this book and once I did I started it the same day and finished it the next. My favorite story was Dawn Halliday's story. I loved the storyline and the characters. I was not quite as taken with Sophie Renwick's story but it was just ok. Cindy Miles story was also quite good - not quite as good as Dawn Halliday's but close.
I rated it an overall 4 - it captured my interest! First time reader of Dawn Halliday - I am going looking for more of her books.
I rated it an overall 4 - it captured my interest! First time reader of Dawn Halliday - I am going looking for more of her books.
October 12, 2010
The first story was a fairly typical period romance, though it accomplished its purpose in terms of sucking me in. The second was maybe a bit too supernatural for my taste, but surprisingly well written. The third story in the set turned me off quite a bit. Not a fan of dialect carrying over to narration, and as my first "ghost" romance experience I'll confess it left me far behind. Overall the anthology is worth picking up, but I'll probably skip the next Cindy Miles piece I see.
November 1, 2010
I found this book on a super duper clearance sale and bought it because I love Christmas anthologies. I have no idea why I decided to read it before Halloween. I liked this book okay, there was paranormal slant which isn't really where my interest lies but the stories were good. I liked story 3 the best maybe because it was a contemporary or maybe because the writing was just detailed enough that I really saw the story.
September 17, 2012
These stories were ok… typical "lite" fare for an anthology, with a little paranormal thrown in. I liked the story by Cindy Miles the best. I had never read anything by her before, but I liked Paige and Gabriel and her writing really captured the essence of a deserted Scottish castle on Christmas. The only complaint I have (it was the same in one of the other stories, too) is that the big obstacle keeping the two from having a future just disappeared with no explanation!!!
December 23, 2012
Dawn Halliday's Winter Heat -
I really enjoyed this story! Great characters and a great story. This little story packed just the right amount of fun into it.
Sophie Renwick's Yuletide Enchantment -
This story fell flat in many ways for me. I almost just skipped it. had it been longer I might not have finished it.
Cindy Miles's A Christmas Spirit -
This was a really cute story!! Wish it was longer so they could flesh out the characters a little bit more (pun intended).
I really enjoyed this story! Great characters and a great story. This little story packed just the right amount of fun into it.
Sophie Renwick's Yuletide Enchantment -
This story fell flat in many ways for me. I almost just skipped it. had it been longer I might not have finished it.
Cindy Miles's A Christmas Spirit -
This was a really cute story!! Wish it was longer so they could flesh out the characters a little bit more (pun intended).
December 10, 2011
I liked all of the stories in this anthology, but I wanted a just a tiny bit more from the 2nd story. It felt just a little unfinished. Otherwise I liked it.
This gave me a chance to check out three new-to-me authors. They were slow to get to the steamy, but it definitely was there.
Great holiday read.
This gave me a chance to check out three new-to-me authors. They were slow to get to the steamy, but it definitely was there.
Great holiday read.
December 13, 2016
I blew through this book like it was a tasty spiked hot chocolate. I have read it before, it is kind of my own little holiday tradition to read it at Christmas every year. My favorite is the last story; the Cindy Miles one. Hot hot hot.
August 8, 2023
Read this book before joining Goodreads in May 2010 , so I rated this just by what I feel after I finish read. Of course I already forget the story, it's been more than 13 years.
October 16, 2010
I ended up only finishing the first story in this book by Dawn Halliday. It was good, but nothing spectacular. I tried the others, but they just weren't for me.
May 29, 2011
I loved all the story especially from Sophie and Cindy.
July 4, 2015
My favorite of the three stories was Winter Heat by Dawn Halliday. I liked the other 2 stories as well.
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