Tag Archives: Highlander

Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander by Vonda Sinclair-Interview & Giveaway

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Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander (Highlander Shifters 1) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Interview & Giveaway

 

DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER
Highland Shifters #1
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: February 9, 2022
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, paranormal, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

A devilish Highlander cursed to change form…

After defending himself in an ambush and defeating his attacker, Gavin MacTavish finds himself cursed by a woman of the enemy clan. Lady Wilona MacRae is a witch of the dark arts and the mother of his slain foe. Ensnared in the curse, Gavin spontaneously transforms into a hawk at dawn each day, then shifts back into a man at sunset. Devastated that his father has been struck with madness because of the curse, Gavin has no choice but to become chief of a dwindling clan. Fearing him as if he were the devil himself, most have fled.

A wayward lass from the future…

When Dani MacRae, a 21st century English lit professor, is given an ancient family heirloom—a brooch—she begins having sensual dreams of a gorgeous Highlander. These spellbinding dreams threaten to take over her life. But when she holds a 400-year-old claymore at a Highland games event, she’s stunned to find herself thrust back in time to 1630 Scotland, into the bedchamber of the intriguing man who invaded her dreams.

A profound love…

After kissing the bonny, unusual lass, Gavin knows she’s the only woman for him, the woman his eccentric father insists he must marry to destroy the curse. But can Gavin conceal from her what he becomes during the daytime? Surely she will reject him and leave if she finds out.

In an effort to help his ill father and his clan, Dani reluctantly agrees to marry Gavin… at least until she can find his enchanted sword, which could return her to the future. Being ripped from her beloved modern day relatives and successful career, Dani is unsure whether she can sacrifice everything for Gavin. That is… until she falls hard for him.

Once Lady MacRae learns Dani is attempting to break her evil spell, she uses any means possible to thwart the union. Can Gavin and Dani seize the magnificent love that will shatter darkness, banish evil, and restore their good fortune?

••••••••

REVIEW: Historical Romance with a hint of magic and I’m there.

This book did remind me a little of Outlander and The Discovery of Witches (with the time travel) but also a film that I love (Ladyhawke) but that’s where the similarities end.

A book I couldn’t put down once I started, really well thought out and written. Descriptions of the scenery had me easily imagining myself walking alongside Gavin and Dani. Loved the Scottish dialect and its usage in the book (some authors don’t use it correctly, and for me spoils the read.)

Gavin is the Laird of his small clan, he became the Laird after his father became mad after a curse settles on his clan! A lot of the villagers left (frightened off) so Gavin is working hard to restore both his name and reputation. Gavin is such a solid character, he’s frightened and angry at the curse, but he’s trying to live his life as normally as he can (a little hard when you turn into a hawk as the sun rises!)

Dani is our time travelling damsel. But the only distress she had was getting back to her own time, oh and avoiding marriage to Gavin! She’s an English literature professor from the 21st century, a no nonsense woman who had me in stitches with her wit and inner dialogue. Being thrown back in time would unsettle most people, and it certainly keeps Dani on her toes.

Lady MacRae is the villain in this book, casting spells and doing her best to keep the marriage from happening. She cast the curse after Gavin. I did feel a little sorry for her, and at times I wanted her to repent and change (if she does that you’ll need to read the book) but we also need a good villain to boo and hiss at, and Wilona more than adequately fit that remit.

Reading about this pair did have me chuckling as you watch them skirt around their feelings for one another. Can Gavin tell Dani about his predicament without scaring her away? Will Dani want to stay in a world that has no wifi, no lighting and no running hot water? Can the pair break the curse? Can they live as man and wife, or will Dani be forced to live a half life with her”hawk” husband?

This is the first book in a new series, and although I’ve not read this author or any of her previous books, I’m adding this series to my “watch for” list.

? Reviewed by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

TRC:  Hi Vonda and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER.

<Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much! It’s an honor to be featured on your site.

TRC:  We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow: Goodreads /Facebook /Twitter /Website /Amazon Author Page

Vonda Sinclair: I live in beautiful North Carolina but my favorite place to travel is bonny Scotland. I haven’t visited since 2017, so I’m really starting to miss it. Writing stories set in Scotland is always a great joy. My hobbies include gardening and amateur photography.

TRC:  Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Vonda Sinclair: Several years ago, before I started writing romance, I was addicted to reading it. I loved all types… historical, paranormal, contemporary, etc. One day I thought… I wonder if I could create characters and write a story. Writing romance novels started as an experiment but became a huge part of my life and a wonderful career. I became obsessed with words and how they sound together, how they evoke images and emotions. I love to create a story world full of characters and experiences for readers.

TRC:  What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Vonda Sinclair: I experienced a lot of stress in 2020 and 2021 for obvious reasons, as I’m sure everyone has. The stress, lack of focus, and difficulty concentrating hampered my creativity and inspiration. The book took much longer than it should have to complete. I hope I can keep going with a good momentum. In addition, I’m writing part time now instead of full time due to other responsibilities.

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about the premise of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair: The basic premise is can true love break a curse? Most of my stories are based on the healing power of love.

When Gavin MacTavish and his party are attacked in the forest on the way home, they’re forced to defend themselves or die. Unfortunately, the man Gavin kills is the son of a witch. Literally. She places curses on Gavin and his two friends. Gavin’s life becomes a living hell. Help comes in the form of a modern day woman. Dani has a wonderful career as a professor and a good life, but she cannot find love until she falls into the past. They complement and contrast each other in many ways. This story has a lot of steam and humor.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER?

Vonda Sinclair:  I’m always researching when I write. I like to get specific about which foods were eaten in Scotland in the early 1600s. When the characters move about the castles, details of what they’re seeing and experiencing are important. For instance, how the windows worked, how the door locks operated. What does it feel like and smell like in a castle dungeon? I’ve been fortunate to have explored several Scottish castles, both ruins and inhabited ones. This research has been invaluable for getting the details right. When I write rough draft, I don’t always include all the specifics. I’ll research the exact detail I need on later drafts. It helps that I’ve written several books set between 1618 and 1630. A lot of it sticks in my mind, and I might only have to go back and double check something. For instance, sending a missive back then required several more steps than writing a letter or email today. Everything was done differently four-hundred years ago, and I like to give readers a sense of what that was like.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Vonda Sinclair: I plan to do three books, stories about Gavin, Torr, and Brodie. Of course, I could come up with a creative excuse to add more. One of my other series, Highland Adventure, has ten books so far and I’m not finished with the series. Secondary characters keep demanding their own stories which is wonderful fun.

TRC: Believability is an important factor in writing story lines especially stories with a paranormal premise-readers like to think ‘what if?’. How do you keep the story line believable? Where do you think some author’s fail?

Vonda Sinclair: For me, believability comes from specific details, which ties into research. You have to make the story feel real by inserting the reader into the story, making them experience every aspect of the world you’ve created. Sensory details are important and so are historical setting details. Scotland has changeable, tempestuous weather, and I like to include it when I can. I would include emotions here too. Help the reader to feel exactly what the character is feeling. For paranormal elements, show how and why something so farfetched is really possible. In other words, the explanation is shown in vivid detail. In any type of story, the author has to convince the reader to suspend disbelief. I suppose this is done via the author’s craft, skill, experience, intuition, creativity, etc.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Vonda Sinclair: Yes, it does for me. I’m sure a lot of readers feel the same way. Most people ignore the old adage of don’t judge a book by its cover.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Vonda Sinclair: I would say it’s a little of both in my case. Sometimes a scene will come to me almost fully formed. Other times, I’ll brainstorm on paper… maybe this could happen or maybe that could happen. This will spur other ideas until something gels.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Vonda Sinclair: As I mentioned earlier, I feel it has to do with the details. Emotions are one of the trickier parts of writing. If it doesn’t come naturally to the writer, they’ll need to learn the skill through reading books, noticing how great writers do it, taking workshops and practicing. This is especially important in romance because it’s an emotional genre. Some new writers tell emotion (She was sad.) instead of making the reader cry. The best writers make the readers bite their nails, cry, laugh, yell, etc. You really want to get the reader involved in the story. Connected to this is creating characters that readers love. If readers care about your characters, they’re going to be invested in their emotions.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Vonda Sinclair: I sometimes listen to Celtic instrumental music or music designed for concentration and focus. I don’t want to listen to distracting music or singing. It has to fit the mood of the story, and I keep it at a low volume.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Vonda Sinclair: If their books are flamboyant and over the top, then the author will be too. A lot of us are introverts. Or maybe they think we are just like our characters. (We’re not. lol)

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, know about you?

Vonda Sinclair: Most readers don’t know I have a BS in psychology and a minor in studio art. I studied French for four years. Believe it or not, these do tie into my books. lol

TRC: Who or what influenced your path towards a young adult, paranormal story line.

Vonda Sinclair: I wanted a short break from historical romance. Sometimes it’s fun and refreshing to work on something unusual like shapeshifters and time travel.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Vonda Sinclair: The second story in this series, the one about Gavin’s friend Torr. I haven’t finalized the title yet.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Vonda Sinclair: I just want to say thank you for this interview. It has been fun!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
I love a lot of foods, but since I’m currently doing low-carb, I’ll say bacon. lol

Favorite Dessert
Cheesecake

Favorite TV Show
Downton Abbey

Last Movie You Saw
Downton Abbey (See a pattern here?)

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Either

Secret Celebrity Crush
Jason Momoa

Last Vacation Destination
Scotland

Do you have any pets?
Yes, cats.

Last book you read
I listened to an audiobook about meditation by Emily Fletcher.

TRC: Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of DREAMING OF A DEVLISH HIGHLANDER. We wish you all the best.

Vonda Sinclair: Thanks so much!!

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER to ONE (1) lucky commentator at The Reading Cafe

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

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9. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

10. Giveaway runs from March 12-17, 2022

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Seductive Scot by Julie Johnstone & Cecelia Mecca-Review & Giveaway

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Seductive Scot by Julie Johnstone & Cecelia Mecca-Review and Giveaway

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 23, 2020

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Reikart McCaim doesn’t want to be saved—despite the fact that he’s a time traveler from 2020 New Orleans stuck in medieval Scotland. He holds his jagged secrets close to his chest and wants to keep them that way. Even if he could open up to the incredible woman fate has tossed in his path, they’d both be shredded by the things he can’t let go of. Still, he needs her help. In his time, his father lies in a coma with only one wish: to see Reikart’s mother again, whom he’s always claimed was a time traveler pulled back to her true time. Two of Reikart’s brothers already traveled back to search for her, but they are missing, too. Now, Reikart must find his family and secure the magic cross they need to return to their time. And the lass who is everything he wants but cannot allow himself to have is the only one who can recover it.

Deirdre Irvine’s life is a disaster, and it’s about to get a whole lot messier. She’s been betrayed by her brother, and she finds herself unwittingly embroiled in a plot to gain control of the Scottish throne. Not to mention she’s harboring enormous guilt over failing the sister she adores. So when the unexpected chance to prove herself to her sister arises, Deirdre will do anything to use the opportunity to her advantage. It doesn’t matter that it means putting herself in danger and joining forces with a man who claims he’s from the future. But she is woefully unprepared for the jeopardy he puts her heart in.

For a scarred man and wounded lass, their greatest obstacle may not be the centuries that divide them, but the walls they’ve erected themselves. As Deirdre’s and Reikart’s lives intertwine and they’re confronted with dangerous enemies, she’s about to discover a strength she never knew she had, and he’s about to learn that facing his ghosts may be the only way to save not only himself but the woman he now loves.

••••••••

REVIEW: Seductive Scot by Cecelia Mecca and Julie Johnstone is the third novel in the Highlanders Through Time series. This is the story of Reikart McCaim and Lady Deirdre, daughter of the Earl of Fife.

If you read the first two novels in this series, you’ll recognize the brothers of Reikart McCaim, from Ian who is still with him in the future to the two, Rhys and Greyson who are in 1286. If you haven’t read them…more’s the pity?

What you haven’t been told about Reikart is that he’s damaged himself with guilt over the accidental death of a woman he was with in the future. He had a car accident, being a little reckless and she died. But it wasn’t all his fault, but he has conveniently or perhaps inconveniently forgotten everything that was not his fault. So, although he still has had sex with women, he refuses to truly care for any of them. In fact, he’s been very careful to pick only those who want an evening of uncommitted fun.

You should also be familiar with the character of Lady Deirdre. She’s been portrayed as a possible villain. However, we find that while she believed in her brother, Yearger, she was unaware of his plans and schemes and didn’t know he was an actual villain. There are, however, some truths she must face and does.
I don’t like spoilers, and this is a great series, so I won’t tell you everything, just the things I found fascinating and so very well written.

Reikart and Ian do the chant again, after seeing that their cousin would take care of their father and the family shipping business, just in case…
Reikart actually lands on top of Lady Deirdre in 1286. So, is there some design in where the cross and chant lands someone traveling? Hummmm… food for thought! Anyway, he was immediately being attacked by those invading the castle. No, I’m not going to go into why…that little wonderful part you’ll just have to read for yourself. However, he was defending himself and the lady he’d landed on, with encouragement from her. He was in trouble when a familiar voice stopped the fight. Low and behold it was his brother, Rhys! Okay, that’s enough spoilers.

Here’s the questions I came up with. Is Reikart attracted to Deirdre and her to him? Can these two characters forgive themselves for their human failings enough to live life? How does all this wonderful healing come about? Can they recover the imperative fae cross? How will they get away (truly unique answer)?

These are just a few of the details of this marvelous story. Authors Johnston and Mecca do a marvelous and inventive job of giving us pivoting plots, ingenious saviors, family situations and love and so very much more. Yes, of course the romance is sizzling…how could it not be? BTW, I love the cover!

Reading order and Previous Reviews
Sinful Scot
Sexy Scot

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S

 

About Julie Johnstone

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

•••••••••

About Cecelia Mecca

Follow: Goodreads/Twitter/Website / Bookbub

Cecelia Mecca is the author of historical romance and also writes paranormal romance as C.L. Mecca.

Every heroine, from Lady Sara in the Border Series to Alessandra Fiore in Bloodwite, is your best friend– the one who kicks ass and takes names. When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to take control, sparks fly until the very last page.

Cecelia writes the Amazon bestselling Border Series and brand new Order of the Broken Blade series which take readers to an admittedly romanticized time of knights and castles in medieval England and Scotland.

She also has her hands full with the ultimate bad boys– sexy, wealthy and swoon-worthy vampires– a venture not for the faint of heart. Her debut paranormal romance series, Bloodwite, released in 2019.

​Our Highlander-loving, vampire-writing author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania​, chai in hand, thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and paranormal playboys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor.

 

Cecelia Mecca and Julie Johnstone are graciously offering an ebook copy of SEDUCTIVE SCOT to ONE (1) commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

IMPORTANT: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please CLICK on the title, and it should take you directly to the post.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Follow Cecelia Mecca on GOODREADS

4. Follow Julie Johnstone on Facebook.

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

9. Giveaway is open internationally

10. Giveaway runs from April 25-29, 2020

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Sexy Scot by Cecelia Mecca & Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

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Sexy Scot by Cecelia Mecca & Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

SEXY SCOT
Highlanders Through Time #2
by Cecelia Mecca and Julie Johnstone
Release Dat: March 31, 2020
Genre: adult, time travel, Highlander, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Released Date March 31, 2020

A ᴍᴏᴅᴇʀɴ ᴍᴀɴ, ᴀ ᴍᴇᴅɪᴇᴠᴀʟ ᴡᴏᴍᴀɴ. Fᴀᴛᴇ ʙʀᴏᴜɢʜᴛ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴛᴏɢᴇᴛʜᴇʀ, ʙᴜᴛ ᴡɪʟʟ ʜɪsᴛᴏʀʏ ᴛᴇᴀʀ ᴛʜᴇᴍ ᴀᴘᴀʀᴛ?

When his older brother disappears in front of his eyes, Greyson McCaim is determined to find him—even if he has to travel back in time. Because it turns out their “crazy” father was right: their mother didn’t leave them willingly. She’s a time traveler, and someone pulled her back to her original home in medieval Scotland.

Now Rhys is there too, and the other McCaim brothers are stuck in modern-day New Orleans. They keep repeating the chant that sent Rhys back, and it finally works—but only for Greyson. Miserably unprepared for medieval life, he is saved by fate’s choice to dump him at the feet of the uncle he never knew he had. The two set off to learn what happened to Greyson’s mother, but their journey is derailed when they encounter an earl’s daughter in need of help.

Marian is sent from the only home she’s ever known to marry a stranger—a Scottish noble with a poor reputation. But her fear of the unknown is soon replaced by a completely different terror when her group is viciously attacked by reivers. The Scot who saves her is unlike anyone she’s ever met—his accent is strange, his words stranger, and he’s completely ignorant to etiquette. And yet this man awakens something in her, as does her newfound freedom from her father.

Greyson’s secret opens a whole new world for Marian, and her love makes him a stronger man. But can they possibly find a happy ending? Because his family is at the center of a conspiracy that promises to change Scotland forever, and from the perspective of history, he knows it doesn’t turn out well.

••••••••

REVIEW: Sexy Scot by Cecelia Mecca and Julie Johnstone is the second novel in the Highlanders Through Time series. This is the story of Greyson McCaim and Lady Marian, daughter of the Earl of Fife.

If you read the first novel Sinful Scot, you’ll recognize the brothers of Rhys as they try to follow him. Greyson is the next to go through time as the brothers try to perform the ancient chant many times. On the last attempt, Greyson tries hard to say it the way he remembered Rhys saying it. Greyson lands in an English pub just south of the Scottish border, in the year 1286.

He wakes up being nudged by boots. As he stands and stubbles outside, he’s followed by a large man that turns out to be his uncle Ross, his mother’s brother. Greyson manages to convince Ross of his linage, and Ross takes him under his protection and helps him acclimate to the times and place. Ross has volunteered to take a message from the Guardians of Scotland to Quinton castle where the English King’s regent is currently staying. Then they will continue on to Hightower where Greyson’s mother is living.

On the way, they come across the party of Lady Marian, who is being taken to Pittillock, to be married to seal an alliance her father wants with the English king. She is not happy about the marriage but is duty bound to do as her father says. She has a strange but immediate reaction to the strange man with the group of Scots. The group is set upon by bandits and Marian is told to go into the trees and hide. The men fight, including Greyson. The bandits are killed, but so are Marian’s men. Greyson finds her and their attraction grows quickly. They decide to keep her with them until they deliver their message, then she can decide to return home or go on to her marriage.

That’s the basic setup. I have, of course, left out all the great dialog and many interesting items. I don’t do spoilers. This is a very romantic novel. The love scenes are steamy and interesting. The pace is quick and dangerous. There is a lot of plots within plots as the storyline progresses.

Authors Johnstone and Mecca have done another remarkable job of joining history and romantic fiction into an exciting story. If you haven’t done so already, grab a copy and delve into this marvelous tale.

Click HERE for Georgianna’s review of book one SINFUL SCOT

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S

About Cecelia Mecca

Follow: Goodreads/Twitter/Website / Bookbub

Cecelia Mecca is the author of historical romance and also writes paranormal romance as C.L. Mecca.

Every heroine, from Lady Sara in the Border Series to Alessandra Fiore in Bloodwite, is your best friend– the one who kicks ass and takes names. When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to take control, sparks fly until the very last page.

Cecelia writes the Amazon bestselling Border Series and brand new Order of the Broken Blade series which take readers to an admittedly romanticized time of knights and castles in medieval England and Scotland.

She also has her hands full with the ultimate bad boys– sexy, wealthy and swoon-worthy vampires– a venture not for the faint of heart. Her debut paranormal romance series, Bloodwite, released in 2019.

​Our Highlander-loving, vampire-writing author can be found in Northeast, Pennsylvania​, chai in hand, thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and paranormal playboys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor.

•••••••••

About Julie Johnstone

Follow: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Newsletter

Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Cecelia Mecca and Julie Johnstone are graciously offering an ebook copy of SEXY SCOT to ONE (1) commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

IMPORTANT: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please CLICK on the title, and it should take you directly to the post.

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Follow Cecelia Mecca on GOODREADS

4. Follow Julie Johnstone on Facebook.

5. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

6. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

7. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

8. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

9. Giveaway is open internationally

10. Giveaway runs from April 5-10, 2020

Share

Highland Defender (Renegade Scots #2) by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

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Highland Defender (Renegade Scots #2) by Julie Johnstone-Review & Giveaway

HIGHLAND DEFENDER
Renegade Scots #2
by Julie Johnstone
Release Date: December 26, 2018
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 26, 2018

To protect herself, she’ll deny her powers. To save her, he’ll break every rule he’s vowed to live by.

Lillianna de Burgh knows all about the legend surrounding the women in her family—that true love awakens the gift of sight within them. But given the horrific betrayals the power has brought her ancestors, she wants no part in true love or the supposed gift. Avoiding her fate seems simple enough since men have proven time and again that they wish to use her, not cherish her, even her own kin. Thankfully, when she flees England to escape her evil uncle, she finds herself in the company of a seemingly hard-hearted Highlander who thinks the legend nothing more than a myth. As they travel together, she comes to discover that behind his cold facade lies a fierce and honorable protector, whose mere touch ignites the passion within her. Yet, the more she tries to resist it, the more she seems to fall.

Renowned Highland warrior Angus MacLorh lives by three principles: put country above self, protect family at all cost, and never become entangled with a lass—not again. So when his future king needs him to accompany the far-too-lovely Lillianna to safety, Angus agrees, confident he can keep her at a distance, as he does all women. Yet the gentle, fiercely determined lady intrigues and tempts him at every turn, and when his greatest enemy captures her, he finds himself breaking all his rules to save her.

As the fight for the Scottish throne embroils Lillianna and Angus deep in danger, enemies near and far hunt them threatening their very lives. When the truth of the legend finally comes to light, can a lady determined to escape her destiny and a Highlander bent on facing his future alone overcome the barriers they’ve created and trust in their hearts to lay claim to the most glorious of love?

••••••••

REVIEW: Highland Defender is the second book in this new series by author Julie Johnstone, and what a series it’s becoming. Well written, imaginative, and twisty! I loved the first book Outlaw King and this one is a wonderful continuation of it.

This is the story of Lilliana de Burgh and Angus MacLorh. Lilliana is the cousin of Elizabeth de Burgh, wife to Robert the Bruce. Angus is Laird to his own clan and friend and follower of Robert. Robert and Angus are pretending to be loyal to Edward, King of England, while organizing the Scots to rebellion.

Angus has sworn never to fall in love again. He doesn’t mind a roll in the hay, but only with a woman who expects nothing else. He was distracted by a scheming woman once, and his father died as a result. His mother followed her husband in death soon after. The woman betrayed him, and her father attacked his castle and killed his father while he rode to protect her. He swore never to let his focus fade from his duty ever again and for years has kept that oath.

Lilliana is the legendary daughter of the seer of the MacLeod clan. She’s the focus of a legend that has men trying to use her powers or win her heart to get those powers. She has sworn never to fall in love or marry for that matter. Her father and uncle have tried to use her to get her powers and are still trying. To do so, they must find the amulet of legend that will awaken those powers or make her fall in love to awaken them.

Robert has asked Angus to take a message to his men in Ettrick Forest, that the King’s men are coming. He also tasked Angus with escorting Lilliana to Scotland and the Macleod clan. They must travel together for a long time to do this. The wonderful experience of learning about each other along with the denied, but mutual attraction makes this trip intriguing and fun. It is, however, also dangerous.

That’s the basic setup. Author Julie Johnstone has written another thrilling tale of the highlands that will entice you into this world. It’s a wonderful and exciting read that I loved! It’s full of danger, sensual and growing love, and even a bit of magic. I urge you to begin and continue this series…quite a ride!

Click HERE to read Georgie / Julie’s dual review of book on OUTLAW KING.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S

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Author Julie Johnstone first fell in love with romance fifteen years ago when she picked up her first romance novel in an airport gift shop on the way to Conroe, Texas for a family reunion and spent her whole weekend reading rather than water skiing, which up until then was one of her favorite things to do.

Julie is staying up way too late and typing furiously on her keyboard to finish her next book or blog with her fellow authors at Ladyscribes. Julie is married to an amazing lawyer and when she is not running her two precocious children to one activity or another she is trying to seek out some time to stay in shape and see her dearest friends.

Julie Johstone is graciously offering an ebook copy of HIGHLAND DEFENDER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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The Highlander’s Viking Bride by Cathy MacRae-Review, Giveaway & Excerpt Tour

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THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE (Hardy Heroines #2) by Cathy MacRae-Review, Giveaway and Excerpt Tour

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THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE
Hardy Heroines #2
by Cathy MacRae
Release Date: May 22, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highlander, slightly paranormal, romance

The Highlander's Viking Bride

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

Add to Goodreads: https://goo.gl/k5LpBx

About the book: Release Date May 22, 2017

Calder MacGerry, laird of an impoverished clan, has resolved to end the bitter feud between the MacGerrys and Sinclairs. He jumps at Laird Sinclair’s offer of marriage to his only daughter, Katja, to seal the agreement between their clans—only to get more than he bargained for.

Katja’s chance to escape her father’s harsh treatment appears to be too good to be true. But becoming Lady of a clan that despises her because she’s a Sinclair, doesn’t make her life any easier. When the attacks turn deadly, she fights her way out, making a dangerous passage to the Shetland Isles for refuge with her Viking family.

Calder and Katja’s marriage, built on mistrust, rushes quickly into disaster. As Calder seeks to repair the damage, Katja discovers not another enemy, but a husband who pledges a new beginning.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is the second installment in Cathy MacRae historical, slightly paranormal HARDY HEROINES romance series. This is Laird Calder MacGerry, and Katja Sinclair’s story line. THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Calder and Katja) THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE follows Laird Calder MacGerry as he must make peace and end the feud with Clan Sinclair upon the death of his father. Without food or supplies for the upcoming winter, the new Laird is desperate for find provisions for his suffering clan. When Earl Sinclair offers a truce, the truce comes with a caveat-a proviso of sorts-Calder MacGerry must marry the Earl’s only daughter, and in doing so would be granted the woman’s dowry and everything that comes with. Enter Katja Sinclair, the mysterious and only daughter of Earl Sinclair, and the woman with whom Calder will fall in love. What ensues is the tepid but growing relationship between Calder and Katja, and the struggle for Katja to trust the man who has all but destroyed her heart and her soul.

THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is a story of romance, betrayal, revenge and mistrust. Calder never thought about taking a bride but with his clan in total disrepair, Earl Sinclair’s offer is something he could not refuse. Katja is an independent young woman who has struggled all of her life to find a place in her father’s heart only to be rejected time and again. Her marriage to Laird Calder MacGerry comes with a promise of love but a love that will be threatened by sins of the past. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE, like many of Cathy MacRae’s previous Highlander tales finds our couple apart for a good portion of the building story line. Katja believes she is better off, away from the Laird and his clan, and finds herself on the run, searching for family she hasn’t seen in years. Meanwhile Calder MacGerry must go in search of his wayward bride. More time together would have increased my enjoyment of the overall story. The premise is entertaining and passionate; the characters are colorful, strong willed, and charismatic; the romance struggles in the face of mistrust and threats against the heroine’s life. THE HIGHLANDER’S VIKING BRIDE is a dramatic and energetic story where a young woman finds happiness against the odds.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Excerpt

(Katja meets Calder)
Katja reluctantly heeded her father’s summons to the great hall. She much preferred taking meals in her chamber, as constant criticism and scorn from her father made for poor company. Her only regret was not spending the time with her brothers. She remembered the days before her amma died when mealtimes were pleasant, even enjoyable. She did not remember the days when her ma was alive.
Everyone in the keep knew guests had arrived—rumored to be the hated MacGerrys. Her father would likely use the opportunity to dangle her as bait again for some sort of alliance, her hand in marriage as part of the bargain. She grimaced. The MacGerry laird was as old as her sire—as were all the men her da had presented as prospective husbands.
“I willnae marry a man thrice my age. Why does he keep bringing such old relics about, Freki? Has the man not made the acquaintance of anyone younger than two score?”
Her companion did not answer.
Katja hurried to the great hall with Freki at her side. If she allowed her sire to wait too long, he would add to her humiliation by displaying her like a freshly caught trout in front of his guests. Much as she disliked appeasing him, flaunting her disdain was far worse.
When they reached the door to the hall, she raised a hand, whispering a command for her companion to wait outside the door as she perused the people seated in the great hall. Pale auras of color surrounded each man, giving the room a festive look were it not for the unsettling tale each told her. The reds of anger and lust, the brown of dishonesty, gray and sulphur of dark thoughts and pain. From long practice, she ignored the pale green of pity she knew were aimed at her.
Skirting the red auras, Katja moved silently into the room, attracting no attention. Years of avoiding her father gave her the skill to move about the castle like a ghost, finding tremendous value in being invisible when the need called for it. It wasn’t until she stood near the foot of the lower tables that anyone noticed her. Laird Sinclair’s eyes gleamed.
“Ah, here is my daughter. Katja, meet the new MacGerry Laird.”
The sight of a young man instead of the old laird she expected startled Katja. Tall, lean of muscle with dark brown hair and fair skin, his deep blue eyes were the color of sapphires or perhaps the ocean on a calm day. A high forehead, strong jaw and full lips made for a very handsome face. Lips which curved into a kind smile at her.
His eager blue eyes stared at her, as if caught in a pleasant dream. Katja’s stomach twisted in a way she’d not experienced before. Heat scorched its way from her head to her shoulders, tingling along her breasts and descending lower. She didn’t recognize or understand the strange awareness. Her breathing picked up its pace as her heart beat tripled. How could one look from a man inspire such a reaction?
She averted her gaze in an effort to wrestle her body and emotions under control. Inhaling deeply, she raised her eyes again only to find the same sensations slamming into her anew. She needed a distraction.
Use the sight. It doesnae lie.
Looking past her normal ability to see, she glanced first at her father. The darkening gray aura surrounding him reflected his greed, his nature growing more corrupt with time. A band of deep brown layered on top of the gray was new today. She knew it as a sign of deceit and wondered what he was up to. Scanning the rest of the table, the light blue surrounding her brothers Bjorn, Christer and Patrik reflected

About The author

Cathy MacRaeFollow Cathy: Twitter / Goodreads / Website / Facebook

Cathy MacRae lives on the sunny side of the Arbuckle Mountains where she and her husband read, write, and tend the garden—with the help of the dogs, of course.

 

You can visit with her on facebook, or read her blogs and learn about her books at www.cathymacraeauthor.com. Drop her a line—she loves to hear from readers!

 

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