| Title | : | The Highlander's Heiress (Highland Heather Romancing a Scot: Castle Brides) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1966087179 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781966087175 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 426 |
| Publication | : | First published May 19, 2013 |
Yvette Stapleton, an heiress determined to defy societal expectations, sees marriage as a prison from which she has no desire to escape—until Ewan, Viscount Sethwick, disrupts her carefully guarded world. Unlike the men who covet her fortune, Ewan sees the woman beneath the wealth, challenging Yvette's resolve and awakening a desire she cannot control.
Ewan, also known as Laird McTavish, carries the burden of a secret life as a covert operative, with one final mission hanging over his head: the exposure of a traitor. Yvette was never part of his calculated plans, yet he finds himself inexorably drawn to her, even as he vows to keep her safe from the dangers that shadow his every step. Their flight to Scotland, a desperate bid for safety, results in an unintended yet binding marriage that Yvette insists must be annulled.
As they journey through the untamed Highlands, Ewan and Yvette are forced to confront their deepest fears and desires.
What began as a convenient facade evolves into a deep, soul-searing connection that defies explanation. Faced with the choice of annulment or acceptance, will they cling to their individual pasts, or will they forge a new future together? Amidst the tumult of their adventure, it becomes clear that love, once kindled, is impossible to extinguish.
The Highlander's Heiress (Highland Heather Romancing a Scot: Castle Brides) Reviews
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Well... no.. just no...
The heroine who thinks she's so clever, but actually is TSTL!!!
The hero who's so smitten with her that he thinks she hung the moon, when in fact she's being just stupid!
I don't know if during this period the Enlishmen/women actually spoke French to one another, but I didn't like it at all! Also, another pet-peeve of mine, the Italian parts were abysmal! Totally wrong! Even Google translator would have done better!!!
So, no, thanks, but I didn't enjoy it at all!
There was a teeny tiny thing that make it (barely) 2 stars: the idea. All the rest is a waste of time.. -
I'd give this debut author a 3.5 for writing a good, but not great, book. There is romance, adventure, angst, and humor, and the plot moves along briskly from London to the Scottish Highlands. The characterization is quite good, and the author did a very nice job with a variety of secondary characters, especially the odious Mrs. Pettigrove. I liked the hero and heroine and found them to be engaging and fairly believable.
But -- here is what kept this from being a four-star book for me: the accents were over the top. I realize that this is a matter of taste among aficionados of Highlander romances, but in this case I firmly believe that less is better. Frankly, I do not believe that it's necessary to write a Scottish accent for a Scots hero. Witness the success of Jennifer Ashley's Highland Pleasures series, where the Mackenzies have only the slightest hint of an accent. So, I was distracted by all of the "achs" and "dinnaes" and "yees," but, when the French villainess told the heroine that "E keeled my brother," and "Eet was peetch black dat night," well I laughed out loud. Which I do not think was what the author was striving for.
Both this book and its sequel have remarkably high ratings, so if you like Highlander stories these might be worth a try. -
This was Collette Cameron’s debut novel and the first book in her Castle Brides series. I enjoyed it immensely.
I loved Ewan’s playful nature and wit but also how strong, protective, caring and loyal he is. It was also refreshing to see him in love with a reluctant Yvette rather than the more common scenario of the heroine hopelessly in love with the hero. I understood why his fear of losing Yvette compels him to conceal the truth about their marriage and I felt he genuinely thinks he is doing his best to protect Yvette from the ever-present danger. He also willingly acknowledges how much he regrets betraying Yvette’s trust and I could feel the uncertainty he endures not knowing what her decision might be regarding the future of their marriage.
Yvette had to deal with lot – the mysterious deaths of her parents, her equally mysterious riding accident and her step-brother’s attempted abductions, culminating in her escape to England. She certainly has spirit not to mention “a gun in her valise and a blade in her reticule“! Though well-educated, strong-willed and independent, she has an air of vulnerability. Her wealth is something of a millstone because she always fears that her suitors have more interest in her money than herself. She is determined to live her own life, marrying only for love to a husband of her choice. I understand why she is so wary of Ewan’s motives for entering into the “fake” betrothal, fears which only seem to be ratified when she discovers how Ewan has tricked her. I enjoyed seeing Yvette discover that her wealth need not be a burden but a way she could not only help Ewan’s people but also Ewan.
Ewan and Yvette are an engaging couple and their romance is funny, emotional, romantic and, at times, steamy. There is an undeniable chemistry between them and watching them negotiate the rocky patches in their relationship made for a pleasurable read. Here are a few of my favourite moments:
Peeking at him from beneath her lashes, she reached to straighten her bonnet. It hung askew off the side of her head , like a giant, drooping peony. She shoved it back into place but the moment she removed her hand, it flopped over once again.
~~~
Lowering himself until his head rested on the same pillow she slept upon, he lay watching her sleep. Scant inches separated their faces. She murmured something intelligible and scooted closer to him, then nestled her head in the crook of his arm. Her silky head fit perfectly beneath his chin. Wrapping her in his arms, he snuggled her soft body closer, until she was cocooned within his embrace.
~~~
She sucked in a sharp breath, tensing as the water level rose, announcing her husband’s presence. She waited, anticipating his touch. When it didn’t come, she dared to steal a look over her shoulder, His hair was lathered with soap. Grinning, he winked at her. A nuance of desire smoldered in his eyes.
~~~
Lifting her left hand, he slipped a sapphire ring on her finger. Four sapphires framed a ruby. “The sapphires reminded me of your eyes, cherie, one for each corner of the earth, and the ruby is my heart. There’s nowhere on earth you may go, you’ll not carry my heart with you. ‘Tis wholly, now, forever and always, yours.”
~~~
The secondary characters play an important role in the story and I love Ewan’s family…the way they interact with each other and their loyalty to Ewan. I particularly like Ewan’s eldest sister, the fiercely independent, breeches wearing, Adaira. I’m looking forward to reading “ The Earl’s Enticement” to see what happens between Adaira and Yvette’s other step-brother, Roark, the Earl of Clarendon, particularly after their rather tense first meeting. I must mention the bombastic, busy-body Mrs Pettigrove, Yvette’s unwelcome companion for a time, who suffers from unfortunate “digestive disruptions”!
Ms Cameron maintains the suspense well as Ewan seeks to protect Yvette from some nasty villains and uncover the identity of the traitor within the Diplomatic Corps.
While I appreciate that Ms Cameron wanted to create authenticity with the use of the Scottish and French dialects, I just found it distracting. I couldn’t understand either why Ewan, a Scotsman, would continually use French endearments when talking to Yvette. This stopped me from giving the book a 4.5 star rating.
Despite this criticism, I did enjoy this story and certainly want to read more of Collette Cameron’s books.
REVIEW RATING: 4/5 STARS
Castle Brides series (click on the cover for more details):
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com... -
Highlander's Hope delivers a HEA love story with the intrigue of spies and danger added in. Yvette is on the run from a dangerous suitor. Ewan is determined to keep her safe and ferret out the traitor that threatens the war office. I enjoyed the chemistry between Yvette and Ewan and the added suspense of peril. Overall it was an enjoyable and satisfying read.
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Spies, traitors, attempted murder and abduction, heiress in peril, handsome Scottish hero and a secret marriage all rolled up into one wild Regency Romance adventure. Sign me up! I eagerly dove into this story with anticipation.
Yvette escapes Boston just ahead of her greedy, crazed step-brother who will do anything to get his hands on her fortune. However, London proves to be no safer as she is again pursued and this time by strangers. The man from her dreams- and yes, I mean literally- arrives in the nick of time to rescue her.
Ewan finds himself rescuing the very lady he has been asked by his best friend to escort safely to her cousin and the very person his colleagues wish to use to flush out into the open her traitorous half-brother who can give them the name of a master spy. During the war with Napoleon, he and several others were put to work spying on behalf of the Regent. Information went astray and now the Regent is set on rooting out the spy master, but someone doesn't want to be discovered and will do whatever it takes, including eliminating other spies to make sure his or her secret remains safe.
Yvette finds Ewan too good to be true and suspects his motives for assisting her when she overhears part of a conversation. Is he after her fortune she wonders? In the meantime they get into a spot of trouble where he must come to her rescue again. This time the danger is to her reputation and not to her person. Ewan's solution of pretending to be betrothed leads to further complications, but Yvette lets things slide because he's keeping her safe and deep down she is enjoying having Ewan around because he has awakened her feelings.
Ewan does quite the juggling act trying to keep Yvette safe while hunting down the spymaster. He knows that he has crossed a line with Yvette and he fears what will happen when she discovers the truth.
When I started reading this book, I was impressed with how it jumped out of the gate like a historical thriller with the girl on the run for her life, but was laced with the amusing descriptions of the vulgar cabin mate from hell. Then it took a shift into almost absurdity (in a comedic way) when Yvette gets discovered in Ewan's room, when they are treated to an interrogation by a nosy busybody and then when he covers up with the lie of their betrothal and with his friends poking then about it. The story settles down into a tension-filled journey of the romance building with the danger element of pursuit taking place and that whole 'sword of Damocles' feeling waiting for Yvette to figure out what Ewan has done.
There was so much going on in this book already with the opener in London, the journey north, the stopover in Northumberland and then finishing up in Scotland. While it was nice to meet Yvette's relations in Northumberland, I almost wish to have skipped it and had Ewan take Yvette straight to his family in Scotland for her protection because I felt like that portion caused the story to lose momentum before picking back up again. It's very possible that I might be very partial to the wonderful people and scenes once the story made it to Scotland and that's what is influencing my opinion somewhat. Haha!
The main characters were likeable and their romance was sweet even if passion got the better of them a few times when restraint would have kept them out of trouble. I couldn't figure her out at first because Yvette's emotions and decisions went back and forth, but then I thought about her level of innocence and her age and it made sense. Later in the story when Yvette feels betrayed, I loved how the author deftly handled Yvette's natural feelings without overdoing the angst. Ewan is a few years older and less naive, but he thinks on his feet and that works for short-term solutions and gets him into trouble in the long run. Because he was so cocky through much of the story, it was fun seeing what happened when he realized how much he loved Yvette. Ewan's need for Yvette and his vulnerability once she knows the truth made him very endearing. I enjoyed the introduction to Ewan's family and thought that for secondary characters they were well written. Call me bloodthirsty, but I really wanted to see Audrey, the spiteful cow, brought down for how she treated Yvette.
Overall, I had a good time reading this first time effort and look forward to more from this author. Those who enjoy light Regency Romance romps or Historical Romance with some light suspense should give this one a try.
My thanks to the author for providing my copy of this story in exchange for my honest thoughts on her book. -
This book surprised me on several levels. Though it takes an approach that appears typical for many historical romances these days—Scottish Hero, Regency Historical, and Virgin Heroine. However, nothing is completely as it seems. This very independent heroine is escaping a determined and violent suitor, and she has had persistent and sensual dreams of the hero for years. Both of these elements play into a nice mystery plot for the reader to unravel. Bravo to author Collette Cameron for carrying this off.
There is a lot to love about this book. The descriptions provide good detail about the era, the dress, and the landscape through the heroine’s eyes. This helps build a welcome and expansive picture in the readers mind. The addition of the mystery plot adds a wonderful twist to villain Edgar’s motivations, while providing plenty of external tension to keep the reader turning the pages. From the midpoint of the novel to the end, I couldn’t put it down wondering who would die and how the HEA would be fashioned. I stayed up way past my usual 1am to 2am time and dearly paid in lost sleep the next day. But it was worth it!
What makes this book really work, however, are the characterizations Ms. Cameron provides throughout her story, including secondary characters like the caustic Mrs. Pettigrove and the many individual men who are loyal to the hero and both teasing and protective toward the heroine. Most of all I fell in love with the hero and heroine, in all their complexity. From silly missteps to serious consequences, and from individual insecurities to assured self-confidence, I willingly went on their relationship journey with them.
The heroine, American Yvette Stapleton, is independent and prepared. Not only is she well-educated and speaks several languages, but she is also physically prepared to fend off rogues and ruffians with a combination of knives, guns, and her martial arts training. That is definitely unusual for a Regency novel and the way the author introduces and uses these skills throughout the novel is excellent. The hero, Scottish Lord Ewan McTavish, is the perfect combination of Regency Lord and bad boy rogue. I fell in love with Ewan from their first meeting and was pulling for Yvette and Ewan to get together permanently. Learning, along with the heroine, exactly who Ewan is and why she has dreamed of him all these years is a journey well worth taking.
This is not your average love story, nor your average hero and heroine. The characters’ flaws offer many opportunities for smiles and giggles, as well as a tear or two for lost opportunities. The love story builds on strong independence for each character, as well as intelligence and loyalty to family. This book stands up to the publisher’s moniker. Yvette and Ewan are definitely soul mates. This book was time well-spent as I followed this couple on their journey of building trust, discovering loyalty, and finding friendship. In the end, all of these qualities ensured a fulfilling forever love.
Note: I was provided an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This review will be posted on my blog as part of a virtual book tour on May 20, 2013. -
Oh. My. Gosh. I loved this story! Highlander’s Hope is an engaging read that I couldn’t put down! This Regency romance is full of action and smoldering romance.
I was hooked from the beginning of the story as Miss Yvette Stapleton is sailing to London from Massachusetts. She is being chased by her step-brother, Edgar Marquardt, whom she suspects is responsible for the death of her father and step-mother. Edgar is desperate to get his hands on Yvette’s fortune. Once in London she is still not safe, and the handsome Lord McTavish comes to her rescue!
Ewan McTavish, Viscount Sethwick and Laird of Craiglocky, also an agent for the English Government, is aware that Edgar is after Yvette. Edgar is wanted for treason, and it is Ewan’s job to protect Yvette and possibly capture Edgar in the process. Their adventure takes them all the way to Scotland - to the only place Ewan trusts to keep Yvette safe - to his estate in Scotland, Craiglocky.
Yvette trusts no man. When she marries, she wants to marry for love, and not to a man who is only interested in her fortune. She has yet to find any man that interests her at all, until she meets Ewan that is. He stirs deep feelings in her that she never knew she had. Ewan is there to protect her... But as she grows to love him, can she trust him with her heart as much as she does with her life?
Ewan has loved Yvette since he met her two years before. He will do everything he can to keep Yvette safe and to earn her love and trust. That might not be so easy when Yvette learns that while they were in Scotland they were married without her realizing it!!
What I loved about Yvette is that she is both vulnerable and courageous. She also had a knack of getting herself in awkward situations. At times, it was quite humorous!
Something else I found interesting - I knew it was very easy to get married in Scotland, which is why so many couples eloped to Gretna Green, but I didn’t realize all you needed to do is declare yourself married in front of witnesses, and just like that, you’re legally married!
I found Highlander’s Hope to be an excellent read!! It's exciting, fast paced and with Scottish accents, I loved it! I’m looking forward to Collette Cameron’s next book, The Viscount’s Vow.
**I was provided an e-arc copy of the book.** -
Though Collette Cameron's debut novel, Highlander's Hope, references highlanders in the title, it truly is a Regency mystery, and it's all the better for it. Attempted murder, spies, traitors, a beautiful and vulnerable heroine, and a handsome Scottish hero, all set against the backdrop of the Regency era, this story is a fun adventure mystery romance.
The heroine, Yvette, escapes Boston and her step-brother, who wants nothing more than to get his hands on her fortune. When Yvette is once again pursued in London, the man of her dreams arrives just in the nick of time to rescue her.
Later, when Ewan and Yvette get into a spot of trouble, he must come to her rescue again, and his solution--of pretending to be betrothed--leads to further complications.
These were likable characters, who both had their own issues to deal with. I liked how Yvette's emotions were honest without being too overly angsty, and I've always enjoyed a cocky hero. The setting was exquisite, just enough detail to give me a real feel of Regency-era England without having so much as to slow down a fast paced story.
Overall, a great book, and well done.
I received an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. -
*chuckle* What a fun ride!
Evvy is a sweet character full of spunk. It is fun to read the story from her POV. She has heart and hope and is delightfully opinionated. She is rescued on occasion, but she’s not just a hopeless heiress in pretty dresses! She wields a knife with deadly precision!
Ewan is intelligent and quick. Having half the story from his POV really takes everything to another deeper level. He is hot, which is important, coming from a handsome family (I love why's!) His character is revealed in pieces, so I wasn't sure of all his good qualities at once. Also great.
The writing style is fun, very fun, starting with the first startling rescue which had me laughing outloud. Cameron writes from exciting moment to awkward moment, so the story skips along quickly. Fun.
What I enjoyed best was the light, skipping feel of reading. The passion between these two is delightful and full of memorable moments. The awkward, fumbling moments are hilarious… the passionate moments are bone melting. They are perfect for each other. I like how they have history. I love how circumstances keep trapping them. I don’t think I’ve read a story where wishes come true TOO fast so that the main characters are confronted with resisting their own heart’s desires. Well played!!
The down-side for me was the neatness of some resolutions, a side effect of so many tangles. Evvy is irritated with passion overwhelming sense, herself, but until mid-way, she kept up her own suspicions.
The ending demanded that I remember characters from the beginning… characters who initially seemed like major characters, but slipped out of the story early on. Yes, everything is resolved, but I find myself committed more deeply to these minor characters and unwilling to accept things without the details.
Ah… and one more tiny fuss. There is more HEART in the earlier romantic scenes. This leads me to give two ratings for this book:
My Rating:
4.5 – I enjoyed the first half of this book hugely. I couldn’t put it down. Love the characters, love the pace. The war room details were a different pace, but I don’t mind strategic planning.
3 – Second half is a tad too “cute” in resolutions and tender moments. The upside of this is that the book is complete on itself. This could easily have grown into two books, which might satisfy my hopes for the story, but there’s a lot to be said for completing a wonderfully complicated story in one book!
3.75 for me overall. -
Ewan was pretty close to perfect and I loved him. Yvette, not so much. I don't know precisely what I didn't like - I just know I didn't really think she deserved Ewan. And I find it more that just a little hard to believe that a twenty year old unmarried woman in 1817 had no guardian and was able to do whatever she wanted with her money.
I did like the story and enjoyed seeing familiar characters from the first book. I think the action moved along at a good pace and nothing was completely over the top crazy.
A couple of things did seem a bit odd and never were explained were 1 - what happened to Aubry? 2 - why did the Italian assassin Pauline speak with a French accent? Didn't really bother me and in no way hurt the story, but left me feeling like I missed something.
I will definitely be reading the next book the Earls Enticement and I wonder if there will be more books in this series. -
This is a Regency Scottish This is a great 5 star read . Collette knew how to grab your attention with laughter and mystery from chapter one to the End . Evette had to leave Boston because her stepbrother was out to kill her for her inheritance . She made a reservation on one ship but set sail for England on another . Once she reaches England she gets rescued by Viscount Sedgwick . The viscount remembers her from a dance at a wedding two years ago .
Meanwhile The viscount is after a traitor that is helping the French . He suspects someone . There is an instant that happened that the Viscount and Evie have to pretend that they are Engaged.
There are a few things you need to get this to find out what happened . Who is the trailer in the Home Office. Do they get married . How do they catch Eve's stepbrother . -
Highlander's Hope ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Written by Collette Cameron
Yvette Stapleton is a hunted woman. She is hunted for her fortune. She escapes Boston and arrives in London still to be in danger.
Ewan MacTavish, the Viscount Sethwick, met Evie two years earlier at her cousins wedding and has carried a torch for her. Ewan is working for the War Office and see a connection between Evie and the spy he is tracking.
Ewan makes it his mission to protect Evie at all costs Highland style. He claims her as his bride and Evie goes along with it thinking this is a ploy for their escape. She later realizes she is married to Ewan with the I do's or a
ceremony.
This is a great story. You just love Evie and Ewan. I would highly recommend this book. -
If this book is a good indication, this author has a brite future ahead of her! I fell in love with both her hero and heroine. They were both so totally likeable and so well matched. The story line was well developed with just enough adventure and romance to keep you turning the next page. There are a few other characters introduced that I am sure will inspire future stories of their own. I can't wait to read about their adventures! A sweet romance that inspires and epitomizes the best kind of love.
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Collette Cameron's debut novel, Highlander's Hope, gifts the reader with mystery and love. There's nothing better than an evil step brother mixed up with corrupt government spies and Transatlantic intrigue. The vibrant protagonists, Yvette and Ewan, have some obstacles to overcome before they find (and admit) love.
Stylistically, Ms. Cameron writes with clarity and an innocence I enjoy in certain stories. It worked very well in Highlander's Hope. I look forward to more! -
Yvette and Ewen will capture your heart. Originally only interested in Yvette because of a traitor, Ewen quickly finds himself falling in love with the independent Yvette. Miss Cameron weaves a wonderful tale that stretches from London to Scotland.
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Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the tour organizers for review purposes. Many thanks to Collette Cameron and to
Goddess Fish Promotions for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
The characters:
Yvette and Ewan are very interesting characters: Yvette is a heiress with special skills in weapons and fluency in five languages. She isn't shy or wilting or helpless but displays incredible courage and ability when faced with a difficult situation. She's been recently orphaned and nearly raped by her stepbrother -- instead of falling apart, she and her loyal staff come up with a daring plan which allowed her to escape to London.
Ewan has two titles: one English and one Scottish -- and it is clear from the beginning that he is more loyal to his Scottish heritage. Ewan also works for the government as an agent for the Crown, tasked with keeping their country safe from internal and external threats.
Yvette was Ewan's way to her stepbrother, Edward, who is suspected of treasonous activities -- but there is a deeper connection between the two: one dance, two years ago -- and both have been ruined for other people forever. Yvette dreams about Ewan, and Ewan has loved Evvy since then.
There is instant chemistry between the two -- and the author is very good at teasing her readers with enough hints about their past. I hope that the second novel in the series, about Vangie and Ian, will elucidate this point further.
It was exciting to read about Yvette and Ewan's tentative an unconventional courtship: they were both on the run and sometimes had to rely and trust each other to make it through the danger.
The conflict:
Danger surrounds both Yvette and Ewan. Yvette is trying to elude her stepbrother, Edward, who is after her fortune. She has survived two attempts of rape and has traveled from Boston to London.
Ewan is chasing after Edward but there is a group that is chasing after him: a mysterious Italian woman and her cohorts.
Add to this, Yvette is uncertain of Ewan's intentions. Does he want her for herself or for her money?
This is another point for the author: the conflict is sufficient to move the story forward and to make the readers turn the next page, wanting to find out what happens next. The pace is also very good -- not to fast that you can't catch your breath before the next exciting scene happens.
In fact, this book reads slow and leisurely -- but it is definitely not boring. Pages are maximized to expound on the development of the conflict as well as the relationship between Yvette and Ewan.
A small niggle:
The author builds up what a dangerous villain Edward is and how resourceful and clever he is -- but how his story was resolved was a bit odd.
My favorite part:
While the title of the book is Highlander's Hope, which led me to expect the story to be set in the Highlands, Yvette and Ewan actually don't travel to Scotland until the second part of the book -- but it is my favorite part. I enjoyed reading about the easy camaraderie in Ewan's family -- this is also where Yvette truly shines through and realizes the gift that is her inheritance.
Throughout the story, she has viewed her inheritance as a curse -- her stepbrother Edward was after it and countless fortune hunters have tried to ensnare her. Yvette had grown weary of her father's legacy to her -- but Scotland and Ewan's clan gave her direction.
She has run away countless times: from Boston to London, then to Sommerfield, before finding the place that could keep her safe: Scotland.
While this is a romance novel, the focus of the story is the journey Yvette takes in order to discover her purpose and her life and the role that Ewan would play in it.
A final point:
As series go, this one follows an interesting trajectory: Yvette and Ewan's story is first. Vangie and Ian's story is next (happens 2 years before Highlander's Hope) -- and the final story will be about Rory, Yvette's other stepbrother and Addy, Ewan's sister, which, I assume, happens after this story.
This was a solid first book for Collette Cameron, and I'm looking forward to the second book in her series. -
Lots of twists and drama, political intrigue and murder all wrapped up in one very enjoyable story. Yvette, a rich heiress finds herself running for her life. Ewan (Laird McTavish) finds himself not only protecting her. At one point, the only way to protect Yvette from her mad step-brother is for Ewan to marry her and so they did, however, Yvette is determined to have the marriage annulled once this is all over. Yet it does not happen as they both realize they are in love with each other. A nice fast paced story that keeps you listening to the end.
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There's a lot going on in Highlander's Hope and for the most part Ms. Cameron keeps tight control over the action to create a satisfying story overall. From the controlled high society of Regency England, to the high seas, to the wildness of Scotland our protagonists set out on a journey full of danger, suspense, and surprising humor on their way to their HEA. This journey is vividly depicted which makes it easy to fully immerse yourself into this intriguing world Ms. Cameron has created and has me looking forward to more stories set in this world after being introduced to so many delightful characters.
Life isn't easy for heiress Yvette as her inheritance puts her life in danger as well as her heart once the man who haunts her dreams, Ewan, races to her rescue. That's not to say that Yvette is the kind of heroine constantly in need of help, because she's not. She's smart, well educated, and not afraid to stick up for herself. She's book smart but naive when it comes to love and untrusting when it comes to men. Ewan therefore has to work doubly hard to win her over. And with his charming and playful ways it's not long before he succeeds. Along with attraction, he also needs Yvette to capture her traitorous step-brother which does leave him conflicted as her safety is his main priority. Their romance evolves slowly but steadily with the sexual tension quite obvious and with a few rocky spots along the way I had some misty-eyed moments too.
The suspense revolving around the hunt for the traitors and spymaster had me on the edge of my seat, but I wish we would've dug a bit deeper into this as it felt pushed aside in deference to other parts of the storyline. I wanted to know more about the Diplomatic Corp and the men working there. I greatly enjoyed the journey to see Ewan's family as they were a delightfully colorful bunch and I look forward to their stories being told as each one is deserving of the spotlight. The sea journey too was a highlight as it brought unexpected humor to the story through Ms. Pettigrove and forced Ewan and Yvette into close quarters and set them up for their ultimately HEA. The only time the story dragged was the journey to Northumberland to meet Yvette's relations. It slowed down the story's momentum and the characters weren't nearly as memorable as Ewan's family so omitting this part in favor of more time spent in Scotland would've made the story stronger for me.
For her first published book Ms. Cameron has created an exciting story with larger than life characters amidst an intriguing mystery and an intensely emotional relationship between two strong-willed people. Highlander's Hope satisfies not only readers of Regency romance but those who love those rugged Scots and brash Americans too. With her writing talent on obvious display here I greatly look forward to what Ms. Cameron publishes next as should you. -
This review will appear at Romantic Historical Lovers Blog on July 9.
Fleeing for her life in the middle of the night, Yvette Stapleton left Massachusetts for England. Once she arrived, she felt her life was endangered yet again so she took off running through the streets of London. As her pursuers were gaining on her, a handsome stranger in beautiful carriage saved her.
Through events out of her control, she ends up sharing a room with Mrs. Pettigrove, again. Noisy, bossy, Mrs. Pettigrove. Yvette breaks into the room next to hers in order to find a little peace and quiet. Only when she wakes the next morning, she finds herself in bed with the naked handsome stranger. From there, things only go downhill.
She’s running for her life and she keeps getting caught in a calamity of errors. Errors that will ruin her reputation. Her handsome stranger, Ewan McTavish comes to her rescue again, claiming they are betrothed. In time, Yvette learns they met at her cousin Vangie’s wedding two years ago. He’s the man of her dreams. Literally. She’s been dreaming of him ever since that one dance at the wedding.
As time goes on, it only gets worse as the lies get deeper. As they flee England for McTavish’s land in Scotland, they find themselves truly married, only Yvette doesn’t know it! Ewan has to keep her safe, tell her they’re married, solve the mystery of why Yvette’s being pursued, AND find the traitor in England’s war office. A walk in the park, right?
Collette Cameron’s writing weaved a fantastic story set in post war England. Spies, traitors and espionage were the order of the day. The story of Yvette and Ewan is steeped in deception, espionage, and treason. Through it all Ewan has vowed to keep Yvette safe, while wooing his way into her heart. The passion between flares white hot, but they must resist. It’s difficult for them both, but Yvette’s reputation demands it.
Yvette was an interesting character to me. She was extremely knowledgeable, well educated, feisty and yet still a lady through it all. She was a delightful mixture of being fiercely independent without being a harridan. She knew when she needed help and wasn’t afraid to take it.
Ewan was almost perfect. He’s a typical alpha male in that he gave orders to Yvette when he felt she was in danger. He did it out of love, a need to protect her. He was also man enough to realize that Yvette needed more from him and he was willing to give it to her.
I’m so excited about this new to me author Collette Cameron. Her writing is superb and I can’t wait to read more. We had a very nice set up to another story from this family. I’m hoping that Ms. Cameron is busy writing it, I’ll definitely be reading it!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. -
Originally published at
The Rookie Romance Blog.
Highlander's Hope is a regency romance that is packed with mystery, action and passion! There's plenty to keep a reader turning the pages.
Our heroine, Yvette, is fleeing America in secret to escape the unwanted and violent attentions of Edgar, a very persistent suitor...and someone who has attempted to abduct and rape her several times. On arrival in London she is chased by one of Edgar's men, but Ewan, our hero, is there to rescue her.
Unbeknownst to Yvette, Ewan is a member of the Diplomatic Corps and is on the hunt for a traitor. He knows Edgar worked with this traitor, and is determined to catch him. Unfortunately this draws the innocent Yvette into a dangerous web, with her right in the middle.
Yvette is very wary of men, she is an heiress and she realises that most men only want her for her money. She guards her freedom fiercely and only wants to marry if it's for love. When Yvette and Ewan are thrust together, and forced to enter a fake betrothal to prevent scandal, she is very suspicious about his intentions. She's vulnerable after all she has had to endure, including the tragic deaths of her father and step-mother. Yvette is very likeable, she comes across as strong and independent but her vulnerability softens her and she has a kind heart.
Ewan comes across as a bit of a rogue, but he's actually very kind, protective and loyal. He's also very close to his large family, who we get to know quite well in the later part of the book. Ewan wants nothing more than to catch the traitor, and return to his Scottish home, Craiglocky, to settle. I thought this was a refreshing change from heroes who are often so reluctant to settle. I thought that Ewan was the perfect hero for Yvette, he's very charming and his playful manner help to draw her out of her shell more. He's determined to protect Yvette from harm, although this becomes more difficult as the story progresses.
The romance between them had it's rough patches, and though the sexual chemistry is there from the beginning, the true romance grows slowly throughout the book. I was right there with the couple, urging them towards their HEA.
The mystery part of the storyline was great, and it kept me easily intrigued. The identity of the true villain is concealed fairly well and the twists in the plot kept me hooked as Ewan tried to keep Yvette safe, whilst trying to catch a traitor.
This book has all the ingredients for a thrilling romance, with plenty of action and mystery! The secondary characters are all well developed, and I'm looking forward to reading more from Collette Cameron- particularly Ewan's sister, Adaira's story!
*I received a review copy from the author, for my honest opinion. -
Title: Highlander's Hope
Author: Collette Cameron
Review Rating: Five Stars
Genre: Historical Romance Fantasy 1817
Reviewer: Linda Hays-Gibbs
Yvette Alexandra Clarisse Stapleton is on the run, escaping a stepbrother bent on making her his wife. Edgar is obsessed with kidnapping Yvette.
Yvette runs from America to England to escape but he follows her. She is running away from men when rescued by Laird Ewan McTavish, Viscount Sethwick, a spy and covert agent of the regent.
Her dire circumstances make it necessary to protect her and take her to her relatives. Ewan suspects her and her stepbrother if being linked to a traitor that is killing agents like flies. It is urgent that this man be revealed and imprisoned. More than this though is Ewan's desire for Yvette.
This is a merry chase of an action packed exciting escape into a lively enjoyable romance. I loved the story, the beautiful descriptive prose and the intriguing tale. The characters had distinctive personalities that grew flesh and bone.
Yvette was smart and endearing even if naive and biased against men seeking her immense fortune. She was determined to only marry for love when all around her only saw her wealth never her beauty.
Ewan was determined to capture the elusive traitor but he wanted Yvette. He determined to protect her and try and win her heart.
They are surrounded by characters that make an impression from Mrs. Pettigrove, her wagging tongue and obnoxious behavior to the maid that refused to ride in the carriage; all are made unique. I found all of Ewan's Scottish relatives and Yette's English relatives superbly interesting too.
Sensual in his seduction of Yvette; Ewan never let up the action for moment.
I could not stop turning the pages in anticipation of the next excitement. I heartily recommend this book to romantic readers and adventurous ones too.
I rate it Five Stars but wish I could make it more. It is a wonderful book.
Eternal Press
And TRR
Sincerely
Linda Hays-Gibbs
Author and Reviewer -
I'm adding to my review that this is really a regency mystery romance. I believe the author references the name Highlander because the Hero is Scottish.
Loved this book! Was captivating right from the get go. The tension that builds during the mystery and intrigue made the romance that was budding, wonderful and I fell in love with them immediately.
Hunky, tall, dark, and handsome Scottish Aristocrat! Ewan McTavish, Viscount Sethwick is in the service of England's War Office. He along with his friends are trying to find and bring to justice traitors to England! One of these traitors is Edgar Marquardt the step brother to Yvette Stapleton. He will do what it takes to get info from Yvette Stapleton.
The story starts off with Yvette escaping Boston on a ship. Her parents have died under suspicious means. The suspect is none other than her step brother who seems to want her money that she has inherited. It seems that Edgar will stop at nothing. Landing in London she is being chased and who comes to her recue but Laird Sethwick! This starts the story down the mystery and intrigue. Yvette seems to be stuck in Laird Sethwick's company. Why and what is happening to Yvette. The mystery's seems to be everywhere. There are others involved and people's lives are at stake. Ewan must keep Yvette safe and accompanies her to her cousin's estate. What takes place during this journey and how they interact is quite diverting and very entertaining. The sparks are flying. Lots of intrigue and attempts on there life. Wonderful journey my only complaint and I usually feel this in all mysteries is that I wanted more answers in the end but the pertinent answers were given and I'm looking forward to more books from this author! -
A really cute and heartfelt romance
I found out about this story on Facebook when it was on sale. And, after reading the blurb I bought the book and of course I am totally into Scottish romances.
This book was full of action and suspense and romance. It also had a couple of funny moments that left me chuckling. Whenever Ewan would say something smooth I would always chuckle with him.
Yvette Stapleton, while she is on the run leaving London after being miserable on the ship with her unfortunate bunk mate. Travels to London to flee an enemy and stay out of his grasp. Some of the things she went through was absolutely hilarious and I actually felt her struggle when she tried to figure out her feelings. And, now she is traveling with the handsome Ewan McTavish. Danger lurks with each and every turn and it is assumed they being followed. But when things start heating up between them will she be able to give herself to the handsome Scot? Or is he just after her fortune?
Ewan McTavish, he was charming since the first moment we meet him in the book. I love his personality. What’s not to like about him? He’s sweet, charming, protective, and I found him quite funny. Especially within the first few chapters it had me chuckling and grinning. I just love how he was bent on protecting her from whoever was hunting her and how he would do anything to keep her safe.
The romance Between the two were absolutely amazing even though there was some unfortunate circumstances but it seemed like everything pull through in the end but I’m not going to spoil anything. I had a fun time reading this book and I am so happy that I found it on Facebook, and I am looking forward to looking at the Authors other work. -
I'm reading this (and the second book Viscount's Vow) because I'm reviewing The Earl's Enticement (book 3) for a blog, however, I'm reluctant to bother with book two after this rather staid and lackluster romance.
The not so good:
1. The hero and heroine are just not very interesting; there isn't enough "screen presence." I was never sure whether Yvette was a strong woman or not because sometimes she'd be brave and stick up for herself and other times she would act helpless. And Ewan isn't a hero to lust after, in my opinion. Together they are meh.
2. I'm just not interested in clans and clan life but if you enjoy that, you might like this story.
3. A lot of the Scottish dialect is a bit too much, making me laugh even during serious scenes.
4. Why do the Scots here use French phrases and words? I didn't understand this. Likewise the overuse of Lud and lawks and other English expressions.
5. Spelling errors or the misuse of words: complement vs compliment, desert vs dessert, dudgeon vs dungeon, fissions vs frissons, to name a few.
The Good:
1. The writing is pleasant and the story moves along at a nice pace; it doesn't drag.
2. The scary scene at the inn on their journey to Scotland. Cameron portrays the tension and danger very vividly here; Yvette's terror comes across loud and clear.
3. The fighting prowess of both Yvette and her cousin, Vangie; I would have liked to have more of the background about this.
4. Likewise, the character of Mrs. Pettigrove. She just disappears after the first few chapters.
I still plan to read book three for a review. Problems aside, it is a pleasant, if tame, historical romance. -
This one wasn't as good as the first one in the series. The beginning really dragged and introduced too many characters who had more than one name- given and then title, etc. The plot wasn't very compelling either, and I found myself bored.
The h is annoying with all of her clumsy tripping, exclamations about the H's eyes, and whatever other annoying things she did. We get it. His eyes are amazing, smoldering and make you want to do unseemly things. Ugh.
Maybe (or mayhap) I should give up on Regency romance. It does seem to be more historically accurate to have the h weak and without options. You'd think this h wouldn't be like that, given her vast amounts of money, but she still needs protection and is at the whim of men and their schemes. She also forgives the H way too easily because she loves him and really, does she have a choice? She would've been ruined in that day and age.
The H isn't all that compelling either. We never get the answer to the h pondering whether or not he's a rake. What about Aubry? What's the truth there? I needed more closure. Overall an ok read, but I wouldn't read it again. -
What a delightful read by Collette Cameron. Perfectly engaging main characters and supporting characters, some who did not have two legs. There is laugh out loud humor, mystery, attempted murders and abductions, spies, villains, and brawny Highlanders. But most of all, there is an endearing and wonderful romance between Ewan and Evvy. I loved the funny, witty, lively back and forth banter between them. They were perfect for one another. Thank you Collette. You rock as an author!
Rated: 4 1/2 - 5 Stars
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Witty; action-packed; wonderful characters; happily ever after; funny; page-turner; entertaining; romantic. -
Would you deceive some1 you love to protect them?
Well I find that answer is a little easier to give theoretically versus realistically. So I am not about to quibble w/the authors point in the story of where or when 'Enoughs enough. Tell them already.'
I enjoyed the story & loved the larger presence from secondary characters like Vangi & Ian from "The Viscount's Vow." ( in "TVV" sadly Yvette & Ewan from this book were barely noticeable. Though it was still a great read!) I love Cameron's stories! =)
