Wednesday, January 30, 2019

The Devilish Lord Will by Jennifer Ashley. The Mackenzies Ancestral trilogy, #10, Five Kilts. Celtic Barb says reading the marvelous Mackenzie novel is like a special gift on Christmas morning! Love!Love!



Book: The Devilish Lord Will
by Jennifer Ashley

Series: (Mackenzie Trilogy) Book #10

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating:

Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts



I have been reading Jennifer Ashley novels for years. Here she pens another Mackenzie masterpiece with fascinating multi-dimensional characters written so beautifully with all the elements us Mackenzie readers love! A story that will make you both laugh and cry-hanging onto every word from start to finish! Another book to definitely read more than once!

Scotland
June 1747

This story starts after the Battle of Culloden also known as The Rising. Will MacKenzie the hero of this is trying to locate missing French gold. Of course Will being Will is in the midst of being tortured by the English for information. In the middle of this the love of Will’s heart shows up. As she had drugged his captors to make an escape. It turns out Josie like Will was also looking for the Spanish gold, but for different reasons. Will was upset she wasn’t with her daughter Glenna. The only reason he left her as he knew with his dangerous life they would both be safer and out of harm way. Not in the middle of Scotland in a villainous enemy  camp - filled with evil treacherous English soldiers! The shocker is she and a bunch of highland women abduct Will!

It turned out though Will and his brothers are on the the list of Jacobite’s who perished. The problem is not everyone believes this to be true. Plus Will is obsessed with getting his destroyed family home back fir his brother Mal. Plus what they didn’t burn or destroy they stole. Like the expensive furniture, priceless paintings and water of life! Will plans to have his brother  Malcolm ( the runt) resurrected from the dead and become The Duke of Kilmorgan. Plus continue building their ancestral home and successful whiskey business.

Josie is hiding out with a bunch of highland ladies. She is hoping the gold will help locate the women’s missing husbands or at help them start a new life alone. She is also hiding with Will the love of her life for personal reasons she has not revealed.  Josie also knows what it’s like to be a single mother. How difficult it was until she met Alec and Will Mackenzie who helped her and gave her choices. Plus Oliver Chadwick biological father of Josie’s daughter Glenna is blackmailing her. A man who never wanted her daughter,  as Will is the only father Glenna has ever known. This attempt would betray Will so she is hoping the gold will be enough to satisfy Chadwick and leave them alone forever. The two people Josie love the most is her daughter and Will Mackenzie. Will Josie even have a choice? Plus there is a jealous jacobite traitor who hates The Mackenzie’s and will do anything to make sure they are  all suffer and makes sure they all are dead! He is stealing all the items from Kilmorgan and trying to purchase Kilmorgan and its land for himself. Just because his mother jilted his brother so many years in the past!

Do Will and Josie have a second chance at romance? Will Josie betray Will  to protect her daughter? With so many British soldiers in Scotland does Will even have a  fighting chance to survive? This is definitely a novel that readers don’t want to miss!

Ms. Ashley does it again and pens another phenomenal action packed page turning romantic adventure that I simply could not put down! I have loved this three book trilogy about the Mackenzie eighteenth-century ancestors, right after the battle of Culloden. Sadly this is the last one in this series, which I have enjoyed immensely. Having Scottish heritage, one of my favorite things is when authors weave true historical facts in their fictional romance novels!  ILike the dress act of 1746, Act of Proscription where tartan and kilts were illegal to wear and even to own weapons like broadswords, muskets, dirks, even playing of bagpipes! Plus mentioning Eilean Donan Castle my personal heritage Clan MacRae. In addition, the story of the gold from France is true. You must read this story to find out about its location and the true background story.

The passion just sizzles right off the pages that to pages were smoking! Plus the antics of Will and Josie are hilarious, yet the sorrowful, forlorn, moments made me emotional too. As you can’t help but feel for both of them. Life has not been too kind to either one even though Will was was raised in wealth and Josie suffered in poverty to feed her daughter. Both the main and secondary characters were just brilliant too and
another devine dialogue. There were so many different twists and turns and amazing plotting that I never know what to expect next!  One of my favorite parts was the magnificent epilogues which was absolutely exhilarating! Plus it had all the elements historical romance readers love from swoon worthy Scottish hero, independent beautiful French heroine, suspense, mystery, abusive villains, treachery, passion, love and happiness.

MacKenzie Three Book Arc
By Jennifer Ashley

1)The Stolen Mackenzie Bride-
(Malcolm and Mary)

2)Alec Mackenzie’s Art of Seduction
(Alec and Celia)

3)The Devilish Lord Will
(Will and Josette)

I can’t recommend “The Devilish Lord Will” by Jennifer Ashley enough. It is another masterpiece in my opinion.  It is like Christmas morning every time I get to read another Mackenzie book. A total treat from start to finish which I always love!

You can read any of The Mackenzie novels as stand alone books too. Happy Reading!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy from the author. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advance copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.



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Friday, January 25, 2019

Katie’s Highlander by Maeve Greyson. Highland Protector series, Book #3, five Kilts. CELTIC BARB LOVED RAMSAY AND KATIE’S TALE




Book: Katie’s Highlander by Maeve Greyson
Series: Highland Protector, Book # 3

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts
Eons ago...
Of all the Druid clans, the strongest was the goddesses of the MacDara bloodline. More devoted and trained by the warrior goddess. MacDara men and their sons mastered the four relic weapons sword, hammer, shield  and spear. No better archers could be found but MacDara females.

Yet the MacDara clan were gifted with the highest honor. That is to guard and protect the blessed Heartstone. This is an ancient relic that contains a special unique energy that made every human’s life special, unique and worth living. To love, hope, evolve and live, without this gift civilization on earth would not be the same. Plus eventually the world would cease to exist. Yet as time went on the meaning of the stone and the lore was forgotten, lost in the circle of time and the mist. Though not forgotten by all existing by the Druid clans.
The MacDara descendents know exactly the cost. As in the tenth century they were brutally attacked and knows what it nearly cost their existence! Yet the three goddesses save Ramsay Danaan MacDara, his two older brothers, his parents, younger sister and bring them to North Carolina in the twenty-first century . The MacDara’s will protect the blessed stone at any cost. As they know they must thrive and never cease to exist! No matter what century the goddesses place them in to save and protect.

17 years later in the future.
North Carolina, present day 2018



I have been reading Ms Greyson  for years and again another book I loved! **

On a personal note my husband has been working for Princeton University for over 25 years!

The MacDara Family in 900 a.d. broch in the highlands of Scotland were under attack and wouldn't have survived. So the Goddesses sent them to the future to present day, North Carolina. This was not only to preserve their lives but so they could continue to protect the Heartstone as this was their legacy. Theses stories began when the four sons were ages twenty through fourteen. The first book, Sadie’s Highlander is  20 year old Alec’s story began 15 years after they were relocated in the future. The second story, Joanna’s Highlander, was Grants story, 16 years later. Now is is the third brother Ramsay Danaan’s turn 17 years later. As they are all aging naturally after their time-travel shift.


Brady North Carolina, present day 2019
Seventeen years since shifted to the future.


The hero of this story is Ramsay Danaan MacDara known as Ramsay. He thought by now like his older brothers Alec and Grant, he would be married by now. Unfortunately he came close, but the woman was only using him for his family's wealth with no love in her heart. He now wishes the Goddesses had left him back in the tenth century with no broken heart! So he has trust issues now with the fairer sex, plus he has always been more comfortable with his four legged furry friends. Plus he being from another time it is difficult for Ramsay to see and detect a woman’s duplicity, treachery and  
betrayal him and using him for her own selfish, deceptive, and disloyal desires. Now he just spends his time alone with his animals.

That is until one day he is taking his horse for an evening ride and hears a car accident. Of course the honorable highlander he is  goes to help the lass. After all that has been imbedded in him since birth. So he goes and finds a bonny female arse sticking out of the mangled car. He then rescues his damsel in distress bringing her home. Although he keeps thinking this is a big mistake, but how could he turn his back and not leave the lass stranded in the dark woods!

Katie Jensen, the heroine of this story is an archeologist. She is taking a six month sabbatical leave from her job, in the garden state. This is at Ivy League, Princeton University, on Nassau Street in Princeton, New Jersey. Her father passed away a few weeks ago as she is still grieving. In addition her fathers last dying wish was for Katie to appreciate, savor and live her life to the fullest and highest degree of happiness! So on impulse she decided to do a road trip to her friend’s beach house in North Carolina. Unfortunately this is when she totals her vehicle!  Luckily she finds herself rescued by the hottest man she has ever seen in her life! On top of that he has the most sexy Scottish brogue, dressed in a kilt, with a body to match. Yet as she gets to know Ramsay her inquisitive and curious mind wants to find out more! The attraction is instant between both of them, yet she also gets mixed signals from Ramsay. To Katie, he is like a traffic light she doesn't know if she should stop of go?

Will Ramsay continue to believe that the Goddesses put Katies in his path or will he trust his own heart? Could it be his forced destiny or true love? However he so suspicious and untrusting of his attraction to Katie. His heart had been so shattered  and trust broken by his ex-fiance he can’t believe in faith or love? In addition he worries its supernatural elements trying to force the match. He isn't sure what and who he can trust?

Are Katies feelings for Ramsay true? Could he be just another test sample from the past to be examined, tested and analyzed? Possibly her best subject and finding of a lifetime!

Will Ramsay feel used again but not for wealth this time? As it would be for his families treasured secrets, due to Katie’s archeologists interest and curious mind. Can these two ever find a happily ever after? A book readers don't want to miss!

Highlander Protector Series
by Maeve Greyson
1)Sadie’s Highlander
2)Joanna’s Highlander
3)Katie’s Highlander


Again, Maeve Greyson pens another winning, captivating, fast paced, pulse racing, enchanting, riveting time-travel adventure, that will pull readers heartstrings and soften their souls. It is both mesmerizing and sizzling that any romance reader will love. This is the third book I have read, as I have read all the books in “The Highland Protector”series, but (Katie’s Highlander) is definitely my favorite. I absolutely loved Ramsay and Katie’s story and highly recommend it!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy from the publishers through netgalley. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advance copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.


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Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Highlander Ever After by Paula Quinn. The MacGregors: Highland Heirs series. Five Kilts! Celtic Barb says it is most romantic book ever!

Book: Highlander Ever After
by Paula Quinn

Series: The MacGregors: Highland Heirs, Book Eight

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating: Smoking Hot!🔥🔥🔥

Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts

The most romantic book I ever read!  Wish someone would collect the most heather to prove they love me the most! Those MacGregors sure know how to turn a lassies head!

Camlochlin Castle
The isle of Skye
Summer 1714

Melusina MacGregor’s father is the Prince elector, George of Hanover and heir to the throne. Plus he is next in line to be King. His mistress is Melusina’s mother but Melusina who is called Sina is illegitimate. Although a royal bastard but still a bastard! She also has never been acknowledged as her father's daughter. The one thing she wants more than anything is to have a real family something she's been denied her entire life. Her entire life she also thought she would marry her best friend William Standish. The one she  had known since she was eight years old and is her betrothed. Yet the Queen whom she thought was her friend ordered this forcing her to marry a savage outlaw. The next in line to become Chief, Adam MacGregor, son of the proscribed chief. Why were they even forcing this alliance?

Adam knew this was the only way to protect and save his outlaw clan. This was something he fought forever never wanting to be in love or to be responsible for his people, his clan. He didn't want this marriage either but he also knew the Queen was his clans protection. Though physically they were both extremely attracted to each other but he didn't like the idea of being married to a woman who loved another.  Plus she was terrified of his best friend his dog. Yet he understands due to his status he has to marry a royal heir, who has been taught nothing but lies about his clan. He plans to prove her wrong that they are not savages or barbarians! However, he will never be
like his kin trying to make his wife happy by picking the most heather. Especially since she was pining over another man.

Yet as they get to know each other feelings are brought out and feelings. As Sina sees the one thing she has wanted her entire life is here, a loving family. Then just as she is about to open herself up and show her love she is requested to return to London. Adam just lets her go which makes her miserable realizing she loves Adam and what she felt for William was brotherly love. Plus William is not the gentleman she thought after spending three years away. Plus there os treachery and betrayal at every corner. Not the kindness, friendship, honestly and love she felt in Scotland. Though when Adam returns to get her father's blessing she is deliriously happy. Especially that her  father postponed her marriage to Lord Standish!

Yet then both their Sina and Adams lives are in danger. Who can they possibly trust, royal secrets are revealed. There are many who don't want these two together and will do anything to win their selfish desires. Plus both Adam and Sina have not exactly been honest to Sina’s father. He has enough power to end their unity and possibly hang Adam, as he despises the savage MacGregor clan, just from gossip and hearsay. What will the destiny for Adam MacGregor and Sina de Arenburg be? Doom and gloom or a happily highlander ever after?

This is definitely a book readers don’t want to miss. Sadly this is the last  book finale of The MacGregor: Highland Heirs series. Where every book in this beautiful series has been filled with all the elements that Scottish historical romance readers love. From page turning, awe inspiring, non-stop action and riveting adventures. Each novel is filled with
betrayal, miscommunication, treachery, suspense, mystery, hatred, passion and love. They are filled with breathtaking settings, characters you never forget, mind-blowing plots and exhilating dialogues! I know I always get swept away in Paula Quinn books with her swoon worthy heros, feisty heroines and spectacular stories!

I think Highlander Ever After is my favorite story of the series. Although I have loved them all as this author is extremely talented! This is a phenomenal book readers definitely don’t want to miss. No worries if it  is your first book or your last book of the series. As you can read any of these books as stand alone books too.

I received a complimentary ARC copy from the Forever, Grand Central publishers through netgalley. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advanced copy of this book. All opinions, ideas, words and thoughts are my own.

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Tuesday, January 22, 2019

The Bride Choose’s A Highlander by Adrienne Basso.The McKenna’s, book #3. 5+ Kilts Celtic Barb was blown away by this awe-inspiring novel! Another Masterpiece!





Book: The Bride Chooses A Highlander
by Adrienne Basso

Series: The McKennas, Book Three

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating: Smoking Hot!🔥🔥🔥

Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts


This is the third book of the McKenna series.



Scottish Highlands
Winter, 1335

In this story, the heroine who is definitely ahead of her time, is independent, strong, adventurous, spirited, intelligent, bold, unique, beautiful daughter Katherine, of Laird Brian McKenna. She is this sister of Malcolm, James and Graham. Her parents gave her the rare privilege most women do not have, as she can pick her own husband. The problem is she is already 22!  An embarrassment to her clan and family, so this decision lays heavy in her heart.

The problem is she wants a successful loving marriage like her parents and brothers. Yet she knows it has to be an advantageous match too.  It must be rank high to her station in life too as a Laird's daughter, plus for her family one of their neighbors on their borders. She finally selects Hamish Drummond, heir to their neighbor Laird Drummond. She is pretty secure she will find love with him, just like her parents and brothers found with their wives. On the evening the betrothal ‘as contracts are signed and during the betrothal celebration, she catches her betrothed with another woman he is in love with. She knows this marriage will be miserable before it even begins. As Hamish won’t end it, so she writes a quick note to her parents and takes a few of her father’s guards with her and leaves. As far as she was concerned this marriage would never happen! Unfortunately she is kidnapped on her way home by one Aiden MacTavish!

Lachlan MacTavish, Laird of a starving clan, just because they choose the wrong side against “Robert the Bruce”. Unfortunately this happens often and the smaller clans suffer the most with healthy land, livestock and castles taken away. His clan is really suffering so when he finds out his jealous, vein younger half brother Aiden just kidnapped Laird McKenna’s daughter and lost her as well. He is absolutely furious! They were told their younger brother Robbie might possibly be imprisoned there. Aiden thinks he can do a trade, yet this is the richest clan with the strongest warriors in the highlands! Plus he went against Lachlans orders to do nothing! So Lachlan goes to locate the Lass and finds her very ill and this is when the attraction starts. He cares and heals her to the best of his knowledge and ability. This is where their attraction  and feelings of love begins….

He knows it’s wrong to want the McKenna Lass as his clan is starving, but he just can’t help himself. He has to bring her back to her family ASAP. Then they find themselves near the McKennas enemy, Laird Archibald Fraser  and lies to them about her identity-so they have another strong wealthy clan that might want to destroy them. Yet Lachlan will do anything to save his Lass, he knows of Archibald’s bad reputation of his cruelty and wicked temper. Yet when he finally does decide to bring her back to her clan, he knows things won’t go easy on him.

Will it be the end before it even begins for these star crossed lovers? On top of this Hamish wants to marry her immediately and accused Lachlan of stealing his betrothed!Yet it is only to be in the good graces of his father as Hamish loves another.

Now Lachlan knows he is not good enough for Katherine. Plus how can he ask a pampered princess to stay with him forever? Katherine knows Lachlan is the only man for her! In addition she knows his clan is in dire need of so much which she could help him and contribute to him and his entire clan. Yet will a prideful Laird Lachlan accept it or
let her go?Due to his stubborn pride and foolish misguided honor!

What will her Da’s reaction be? Kidnapping a Laird'sm daughter and harming McKenna soldier  guards is a capital offense! Will he allow Laird MacTavish to even live? After-all she had been been originally kidnapped by his brother foolish pigheaded brother Aiden. Even though Lachlan had no part in this stupid plot what will the McKenna possibly believe. Is this couple destined to stay together forever or live apart with shattered hearts?

I have been a fan of Ms Basso books for many years and each and every book are always action packed with captivating characters from heroines, hero’s to criminal, violent lawbreaking, villains. Always a riveting phenomenal read from start to finish, with breathtaking setting, brilliant dialogue, multi-dimensional characters that steal your heart! Plus amazing plots that has your holding your breath with your heartbeat racing wondering what could possibly happen next?!

I absolutely and unequivocally love Adrienne Basso’s Scottish historical novels and this one is an absolute winner!



The McKennas Series by Adrienne Basso
1)The Highlander Who Loved Me
2) No Other Highlander
3) The Bride Chooses A Highlander

Note: You can read all the books in this series as stand alone books. I personally like reading them in book order to connect the character dots. It’s totally a reader's’ personal choice.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy and an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.


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