Tag Archives: Vonda Sinclair

Charming a Cursed Highlander by Vonda Sinclair-review & excerpt

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Charming a Cursed Highlander (Highland Shifter 2) by Vonda Sinclair-review & excerpt

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 14, 2024

The myth and magic of the Scottish Highlands comes to life in this fun, historical, fantasy, paranormal romance.

A Determined Lass…

Since Catriona MacCain was a young girl, she has been in love with Torr MacElrath, but he doesn’t seem to realize she exists. His recently acquired curse of shapeshifting into a kelpie, or water horse, at night doesn’t deter her. Brodie, her older brother and the MacCain chief, is also entangled in the curse. He has abandoned the clan, and in his absence, their mother negotiates a marriage alliance for Cat with the cruel Chief MacPeter in exchange for his protection. After rejecting the atrocious marriage plans and learning what will destroy the curse, Cat runs away to find Torr and gain his help.

A Cursed Highlander…

Torr, trapped by the curse, hates his dark and lonely existence. With her ginger hair and sunny enthusiasm, Cat bursts into his life like a fiery explosion. He remembers her as a wee lass and can hardly believe the beautiful, tempting young woman Cat has grown into at age twenty. He wants to help her escape marriage to a vicious beast, but how will he resist her, especially when she’s determined to captivate him and shatter his curse? Falling for her would surely destroy his friendship with Brodie and bring destruction upon their clans.

The previous year…

Lady Wilona MacRae has been honing her malicious witchery skills for years. When three friends—Gavin MacTavish, Torr MacElrath, and Brodie MacCain fight in a battle in which her son is killed, she accuses them of murder and condemns them to live under a curse for the rest of their lives. Against their will, they transform into beasts daily.
Gavin’s story: Dreaming of a Devilish Highlander
Torr’s story: Charming a Cursed Highlander
Brodie’s story: (coming soon)

A magical, opposites attract, grumpy-sunshine fairytale romance novel with shifters, a witch, a sorcerer, Scottish legends, steaminess, adventure, madness, and mayhem.

•••••

REVIEW:Torr and Catriona work hard to achieve their HEA, but things don’t go according to plan….

This is the second book in the trilogy. It’s not really necessary to read book one. It gives you a little background on the curse, but you get just as much info in here, so it’s really your choice. I read (and loved book one) and I’m looking forward to book three.

Torr is best friends with Brodie and Gavin. They’ve been friends and allies for years. Being cursed because of a mothers broken heart isn’t how the three friends thought their lives would turn out….

Gavin was cursed to live his life a Hawk (first book in the series) His two friends have different curses, Torr turns into a kelpie (water horse) so having a relationship isn’t in his future, slowly turning him into a grumpy and angry character.

Catriona has loved Torr for years, but has convinced herself that he never really saw her other than the annoying little sister of his best friend.
After her brother was cursed and abandoned his clan, his mother decided to marry off Catriona to protect the clan. But she has no wish to marry the vile MacPeter. So Cat needs to find and break their chiefs curse.

I have to admit I would have like to have seen more action between Cat and MacPeter, we only really got snippets! ?

Lady Wilona doesn’t see the curses as being enough. They killed her son, revenge will be served…..
I liked the fact we got to see the villains points of view and thoughts.

It’s a fast paced read with lots of humour. A feisty female that drags Torr back to life. But can they really break the curse? Or will Torr return to the water and never know love again?

A highly recommended read. ??

Click HERE for Julie’s review of book one DREAMING OF A DEVILISH HIGHLANDER

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Julie B ?

 

Catriona shivered as the ferryman—she’d learned his name was Hamish—oared his small wherry along the length of dark Loch Mirich. Thankfully, no storm raged this night as it had the previous one.
She had not told Hamish their true names lest he tattle if her clansmen came searching. At the moment, no one would guess she was a lady, thanks to the cow dung aroma from the byre that clung to her old clothing and her grimy face.
Despite the chill breeze, she could not help but admire the stark white full moon and the millions of stars that twinkled in the midnight blue sky. She focused on the splash of the oars leaving the water and plunging in again. She prayed no giant loch monsters lurked beneath, waiting to rise up and devour them. She forced herself to take a deep breath of air scented with fish and peat bog.
Aggie gripped her hand and scooted closer. Despite her maid’s physical toughness, it seemed she was losing courage on the water and in these strange surroundings. She had never traveled far from home before.
“‘Tis all right, Aggie,” she whispered, squeezing her hand. “We shall be there forthwith.”
Hamish huffed as his robust arms pumped the oars. She’d told him she wanted to arrive quickly. And, of course, he wanted to hurry home and eat his supper.
When they arrived an hour later, Hamish jumped into the shallows and tugged the boat toward the bank. He held a hand up and helped her alight. Icy-cold water splashed onto her shins and filled her shoes.
She released a short scream. “Blast! I hate getting wet.”
“Pray pardon. ‘Twas as close as I could get.”
“Grrr.” Catriona dug into her pocket for the number of coins they’d agreed upon and pressed them into his palm.
“Many thanks.”
While he helped Aggie off, Catriona lifted the bottom edge of her skirt and squished onto dry land. She convulsed into shivers.
“Hurry, Aggie. My feet are like blocks of ice now. And we need to reach Castle Dubhuisge before it gets much darker.”
Aggie grabbed her arm, stopping her. “What’s that?” she whispered.
Catriona followed her gaze to a large white horse standing in the moonlight at the wood’s edge.
Hamish cried out a prayer and paddled away quickly. Why had he done that?
The horse snorted, then pranced before them, showing off his long mane.
“Oh, he’s magnificent,” Catriona breathed.
“Lass,” Aggie whispered, her eyes as big as the moon overhead. “Is that a kelpie?”
“Nay! ‘Tis but a beautiful horse. Someone’s prized stallion who’s escaped his stall. ‘Haps he belongs to Laird MacElrath.”
“And what do you think kelpies appear as? Bonny white horses. Look, his eyes glow evil green. ‘Tis a kelpie, I vow. Come! He will eat you alive.”
Aggie dragged Catriona away from the loch shore and toward a path. They ran a short distance.
“Are kelpies real?” Catriona paused and glanced back at the white horse that now calmly nibbled grass in the distance.
“Aye.” Aggie caught her breath as they continued to walk. “Selkies are real. So why would kelpies be only a legend?”
“But selkies are nay a threat to people.”
“‘Tis how they differ. A kelpie will lure you onto his back with his beauty and friendliness, then he’ll dive into the loch and eat you! Does nay matter to him if you’re alive or drowned when he has his meal.”
Catriona scowled at the images Aggie’s words conjured. “But horses neither eat meat nor live in lochs.”
“He’s nay a horse, lass; he only looks like one! You cannot apply reason to the world of magic.”
A stick snapped behind them. Catriona jerked around. The white horse stood close, watching them, his sleek coat glowing in the moonlight. His head held high, he sniffed the air and switched his tail. His breath fogged the chill night air.
“He’s following us,” Catriona whispered, now a bit uneasy because she hadn’t heard him approach.
“Run!” Aggie grasped her sleeve and took off.
Catriona had no choice but to sprint alongside Aggie if she wanted to keep her sleeve. “We cannot outdistance a horse!”
“If ’twas only a horse, I would nay be running.” Aggie huffed. 


 

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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?

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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

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10. Giveaway runs from March 12-17, 2022

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Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

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Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair- Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

HIGHLANDER ENTANGLED
Highland Adventure #9
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: December 8,2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highland, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 8,2017

Lady Kristina MacQueen suffered devastating injuries at the hands of a ruthless Highland chief, Blackburn MacCromar. Two years later, he kidnaps her for a journey across the chilly, windblown Scottish Highlands to flush out her sister, Anna—the woman Blackburn forced to wed him. Red Holme, Blackburn’s second-in-command, is equally brutal and determined to possess Kristina.

A Highland warrior and future chief, Colin Cameron has no intention of becoming entangled in the whims of another highborn lady. However, upon witnessing Lady Kristina being held hostage by the enemy, a knife to her throat, he resolves to rescue her and bring her to safety. When R

ed Holme sees Colin Cameron, he recognizes his enemy from a decade earlier and craves revenge even more than he lusts for the lady. But he is determined to have both.

Colin is the most charismatic and heroic man Kristina has ever met, and he awakens her woman’s instincts. He might be her only chance to experience a brief moment of passion. Even so, she holds no illusions about marriage, for no worthy man will find her blindness and scars appealing, or see them as beneficial traits in a wife. But she can’t see how he looks at her. Though Colin has sworn to never fall in love again, he cannot defend his heart against the strong, spirited and lovely lass who is like none other he has ever met.

••••••••••

REVIEW: 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

FANTASTIC BOOK! I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I am very eager to dive in and perhaps get some back stories on other characters. I did not feel this took away from any enjoyment I had reading this story, it was very easy to follow.

Highlander Entangled by Vonda Sinclair is the ninth book in the “Highland Adventure” series and let me say one thing … ADVENTURE is the perfect word they could of used. A highland historical romance, you will find yourself completely immersed into the past, where men were gruff, unapologetic, prideful, egotistical, full of revenge, passionate and so much more, and the ladies made sure they have met their match. The side of sexy love completely sold me and solidified my “must read more” attitude for this author.

Lady Kristina McQueen is our leading lady and I completely adore her. She is the kind of character you will be all in with, and your heart will break a hundred times, but you deep down will know she will make it through. She is carrying many scars, both emotional and physical and this has left her blind. She is kidnapped by the man who gave her her scars to try and get to her sister. Kristina possess a strength that I am uncertain many woman can achieve in that time and under these circumstances. She is resigned to what she has been dealt with in life, and believes she is fated to live tortured and lonely. Her attitude isn’t woo is me however, she threw no pity party. She has mourned what she has gone through, but it hasn’t completely consumed her and when her leading man comes into the picture, she doesnt recognize him as her partner, but as a strength she can draw from.

Colin Cameron is the future chief of his clan, and a fierce enemy of the men that have kidnapped Kristina. When he sees her kidnapped he does right by her and gets involved. He saves Kristina from more than physical harm, he saves her from a future of loneliness. Colin is the real deal. He is a good man, cares strongly but is no pushover. He is enchanted by this woman that has crossed his path and while there are certain attributes that a chiefs wife must possess, he doesn’t seem to give two cares about it. He is protective and loving of Kristina, and she openly embraces this caring and love and finds herself returning it.

This book is full of adventure and emotion. You will feel like you have been on the most intense roller coaster ride of your life, and I as an emotional read love that! Vonda is an excellent historical romance author and I say this because she writes vivid images and makes me feel like you have been thrown back in time, living this story with the characters.

I am very interested in reading more from Vonda, and certainly am going to go back and snag this series. I am completely impressed and really looking forward to more!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Researching on Location in Scotland
By Vonda Sinclair

There’s nothing I like better than exploring castle ruins in the remote areas of Scotland. On one such research trip, I drove 25+ miles beyond Glenfinnan with my friends to visit Castle Tioram. We passed through sparsely populated, wild areas with amazing scenic beauty, and drove along narrow winding roads, most of them single track. There were a few houses, crofts, and tiny villages or communities here and there. The drive took twice as long as it should have because we had to stop several times along the way for photo ops. We passed lochs, mountains, and old bridges. We could’ve seen the Jacobite steam train (aka “Hogwarts Express”) if we’d been willing to linger in a certain spot long enough. We didn’t, but we did see the train the next day as it passed over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
We wanted to get to Castle Tioram (pronounced Cheeram) as quickly as possible. This is a privately owned castle in a dangerously ruinous state. It was unsafe for us to go inside because of the hazards of possible falling stones from the masonry. But what a spectacular location! The castle sits on a small island called Eilean Tioram (meaning ‘the dry island’ in Gaelic) in Loch Moidart near where the River Shiel empties into it.
I had craved visiting this castle for years, from the first time I saw a photo of it online. It had always captured my imagination. I wanted to use it in a story but was unsure how until I started writing My Captive Highlander.

When I was writing a shipwreck (or technically a galley wreck) scene for the story, I thought, okay, where could the hero’s galley crash during the storm and where could he be taken hostage and tossed into the dungeon? It needed to be on the west coast of Scotland somewhere between Inveraray and Isle of Skye. I decided that even though my castle would have a fictitious name, Bearach Castle, I would base it on Castle Tioram, a MacDonald stronghold back through history. And the heroine would be a MacDonald—the chief’s sister. About twenty years earlier in actual history, the hero’s clan, the MacKenzies, had experienced a conflict and a battle with these MacDonalds. Perfect for drama, conflict and action.

I’ve since set two more books there including Highlander Unbroken and, my newest, Highlander Entangled. Highlander Unbroken features the new chief of the MacDonald clan, Neacal, while Highlander Entangled features his friend and foster brother, Colin Cameron, as the hero. All three stories are stand-alone but are linked.
Castle Tioram occupies a place, near the River Shiel, which was strategic for Scotland’s defense centuries ago, because it allowed easy travel by boat toward the Great Glen and the center of Scotland, along Loch Shiel and other inland lochs. Even during the Iron Age, long before the current castle, this site was important. Artifacts from the time have been found. There is also much evidence of Vikings’ presence in the area during medieval times. The beaches around the island would’ve been ideal for sheltering galleys, ships and other boats.

Even though I couldn’t explore the inside of the castle, I walked almost all the way around it. In some areas I was close enough to touch it, but in other areas I had to climb rocks or walk along the sea loch’s shore and view it from a distance. It was a nice, sunny day and I took several hundred photos. Because I was able to explore the rough and rocky terrain around the castle, I could accurately describe it in many of my books’ scenes, including battle scenes. I absolutely love to bring the readers fully into my scenes and make them feel a part of the story.

Vonda Sinclair writes wildly romantic Highland adventures about brave Highland warriors and their unconventional ladies. She takes readers back through the mists of time into a different world—17th century Scotland.

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Vonda Sinclair is the USA Today bestselling author of award-winning Scottish historical romance novels and novellas. Her favorite pastime is exploring Scotland and taking photos along the way. She especially loves ancient castle ruins! She also enjoys writing about hot Highland heroes, unconventional ladies and the healing power of love. Her series are the Highland Adventure Series and the Scottish Treasure Series. Her books have won the National Readers’ Choice Award, the CRW Award of Excellence, the Winter Rose Award of Excellence in Published Romantic Fiction–1st Place Historical, and an EPIC Award. She lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she is crafting another adventurous, wildly romantic Scottish story. Please visit her website at www.vondasinclair.com

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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Kissing the Highlander Anthology – Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

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Kissing the Highlander Anthology-Review,Guest Post & Giveaway

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Kissing The Highlander Anthology
by Terry Spear, Eliza Knight, Willa Blair, Vonda Sinclair, Victoria Roberts
Release Date: February 10, 2015
Genre: historical, romance, Highlander

Kissing the Highlander

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KISSING THE HIGHLANDER anthology
by Terry Spear, Eliza Knight, Willa Blair, Victoria Roberts, and Vonda Sinclair
RELEASE DATE: February 10, 2015

KISSING THE HIGHLANDER is an anthology consisting of five Highland historical romance storylines set in the 1600s of the Scottish Highlands. Some of the tales are steeped in Scottish brogues, superstitions and legends of fae, witches and magic. Most of the storylines reference a circle of Standing Stones where legends are born and magic ensues. Because of their fast paced, short length each relationship is a story of insta-love or one of immediate attraction where in the end each of our couples will get their happily ever after. All five short stories can be read as a standalone novella within each respective series but Victoria Roberts’s KILTS AND KISSES ends on a slight cliff hanger leaving the reader wanting to know what happens next.

All of the relationships are love matches; the $ex scenes are intimate without graphic imagery; there is some violence but not vivid. All five authors pull the reader into the sweeping Highlands where green pastures and blue skies make way for building romance between warring clans. Five short stories where Highlanders find their one true love.You can never go wrong with a Highlander !!

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His Wild Highland Lass by Terry Spear

Terry Spear: https://terrylspear.wordpress.com/

Lady Sorcha Barclay fled her brother-in-law’s castle because of his unwanted advances. An awe-inspiring circle of standing stones captures her attention and she captures the attention of the laird who owns the land.

Laird Ronan Daziel takes Sorcha to his castle to protect her and give her a home. Before long, he wants much more. He’s duty-bound to take a wife whose clan wishes an alliance with his. So why does he long to have something more? Everyone loves the lass as much as he does. But he has pledged his loyalty to his clan. Taking Sorcha to wife could lead to battle on several fronts. How can he wed another when she stole his heart from the first moment he laid eyes on her near the ancient standing stones on his lands?

REVIEW: HIS WILD HIGHLAND LASS is a prequel novella to Terry Spear’s THE HIGHLANDERS historical romance, (slightly paranormal) series. For fans of the series you may recognize James MacNeil; in the novella James is only five years old.

The storyline follows the introduction and subsequent marriage of Laird Ronan Daziel and Lady Sorcha Barclay. Sorcha is on the run from her brother in law and finds solace in the arms of Laird Ronan. What ensues is a story of insta-love in the Highlands of Scotland. The novella can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. If you are a fan of historical romances blended with Highlander heat, then Terry Spear’s The Highlanders series is sure to please.

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The Highlander’s Charm by Eliza Knight

Eliza Knight: http://www.elizaknight.com/

They should be enemies… But passion and love know no bounds.

Returning from France to his family’s manor in England, Samuel de Mowbray discovers that his two younger sisters have been stolen away to the Highlands by the Sutherland brothers. Determined to save his sisters from the hands of vicious warriors, he convinces the king to send him north on a mission. While there he discovers not only that his loyalties are beginning to waver but that a head-strong, feisty lass could destroy everything he believes.

Catriona Buchanan needs to travel north to gain the help of her distant relations in saving her brother and ridding her castle of brutal English knights. Unfortunately, it appears the only way to escape their clutches is by trusting in the very thing she mistrusts the most—an Englishman. Minute by minute, the man who should be her enemy breaks down her defenses. There is something different about him and she can’t help but be captivated by Samuel, and his steamy kisses.

REVIEW: THE HIGHLANDER’S CHARM is an historical, Highlander romance novella focusing on Samuel De Mowbray and Catriona Buchanan. For fans of Eliza Knight’s STOLEN BRIDES Highlander series, Samuel is the brother of Arbella and Aliah Mowbray first introduced in The Highlander’s Reward (book 1) and The Highlander’s Conquest (book 2).

The storyline follows Catriona and Samuel’s escape from Castle Buchanan. When an English regiment invaded the castle, Catriona found her knight in shining armor was none other than one of the Englishman who stormed the castle. A journey across country finds Catriona and Samuel falling in love but not before Samuel’s life is threatened and he nearly dies.

The reader is reintroduced to Arbella and Aliah, as well as their husbands and we get a little more information about their history and story. This novella can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. The epilogue fast forwards the series six months where Samuel will be offered a liaison position between Scotland and England.

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Heart of Stone by Willa Blair

Willa Blair: http://willablair.com/

Riding home after two years away, Gavan MacNabb encounters a lass and her deerhound in a moonlit circle of standing stones. Little does he know the garland of bluebells she weaves and the spell she sings will change the course of his life.

Marsali Murray doesn’t really believe the old wives’ tale that making a chain of bluebells by the standing stones under a waxing moon will bring true love, but she’s desperate to try anything to escape the boring, everlasting sameness of her life. Anything except marrying a man her father chooses for her. When her deerhound, Corrie, insists on following Gavan, Marsali decides that’s the excuse she needs to have the adventure she craves. She’ll go where he goes, whether or not he is the man promised by her spell.

Gavan has already seen much of the world denied to Marsali. He’s ready to settle down. She is eager to spread her wings. Can they find what they need with each other?

REVIEW: HEART OF STONE is a prequel novella to Willa Blair’s Highland Talents historical, Highland romance series. This is Gavan MacNabb and Marsali Murray’s storyline. Some of the series characters are introduced and fans of the Highland Talents will recognize some of the names.

Marsali is a woman who knows her prospects for a husband are slim at the family Keep, so she tempts fate and magic-enter Gavan MacNabb-the man with whom she would start her new adventure but a man betrothed to someone else. While Marsali looks to the future, her father will see that her future is with someone else.

HEART OF STONE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. No prior knowledge of the series is necessary for your enjoyment. The premise looks at family life and duty when your are neither the heir nor ‘the spare.’ Sometimes you have to create a new path from which to carve your own future.

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Kilts and Kisses by Victoria Roberts

Victoria Roberts: http://victoriarobertsauthor.com/

Since the deaths of her parents, Ceana Gunn has lived in the shadow of her uncle and his family. She wants nothing more than to see her clan the way it was when her father was still laird. But her uncle has other ideas. Ceana soon discovers that the only refuge to be found is in the last place she expects—the arms of her enemy.

Luthais MacKay wants to be left alone. His only interest is training his prized hawks. He certainly doesn’t have time to listen to the petty squabbling of his clan when his father travels to Edinburgh and leaves him in charge. But when Luthais discovers a mysterious woman on his lands, he’s determined to unravel her secrets…one layer at a time.

REVIEW: KILTS AND KISSES is the second installment and first novella in Victoria Roberts’s historical, romance Highland Spies series. This is Ceana Gunn and Luthais MacKay’s storyline.

Victoria Roberts pulls the reader into a tale of forbidden love between enemy clans. While Ceana believes the magic of the standing stones has brought Luthais MacKay into her life, it is the thawing heart of her cousin Sorcha that seals the deal for our Highland couple.

KILTS AND KISSES is a story of insta-love between Luthais and Ceana. As Ceana longs for a husband and lover, she is doomed to watch from the sidelines as her aunt and uncle bring any number of suitors for her younger cousin. What ensues is a case of mistaken identity and apologetic amends from a woman who has uncovered a lie.

KILTS AND KISSES can be read as a stand alone but ends on a bit of a cliff hanger. I am not sure when and if the story is to be continued, but it does leave the reader wanting more.

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My Captive Highlander by Vonda Sinclair

Vonda Sinclair: http://www.vondasinclair.com/

Can unexpected passion and a little ancient magic turn enemies into lovers?

During a fierce storm on the west coast of Scotland, Shamus MacKenzie barely survives a galley wreck only to be captured and held for ransom by the enemy MacDonalds.

Aided by the gift of second sight, Maili MacDonald, sister of the ruthless chief, senses the handsome, dark-haired stranger will somehow be important in her life. Compelled to help him, she insists on providing him food and a healer to see to his injuries. She knows she is daft to fall in love with this captivating warrior after one forbidden kiss but cannot help herself. With each visit from Maili, Shamus finds his thoughts consumed by the enchanting lass.

Can he convince her to help him escape the dungeon and prevent the impending battle between the two clans?

REVIEW: MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER is a Highlander novella in Vonda Sinclair’s HIGHLAND ADVENTURE historical romance (slightly paranormal) series. This is Shamus MacKenzie and Maili MacDonald’s storyline-a tale of forbidden love between warring clans.

Maili has the gift of second sight and she is drawn to Shamus MacKenzie-a prisoner, held for ransom, in her brother’s dungeons-a man she believes to be her future mate. Beaten but not down, Shamus finds himself drawn to his captor’s sister and pleads with Maili to help him escape but Maili’s brother has other plans for both the prisoner and his sister.

MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER is another short story of insta-love between two people from warring Highland clans. Vonda Sinclair pulls the reader into a story of romance where falling in love can be a dangerous thing.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Guest Post

It’s wonderful to be back at The Reading Café today. Thanks so much for having us.
Willa Blair, Eliza Knight, Vonda Sinclair, Terry Spear and I are here to celebrate our newest release Kissing the Highlander. The anthology contains five brand new novellas by bestselling authors of Highland romances that will delight you with mystery, intrigue, romance, drama and so much more!

This was such a fun project, especially since we love all things Scottish. Set in different time periods, our five tales share a common theme: that love can be found with a little help from ancient standing stones and a wee kiss or two.

We hope you enjoy the blurbs from our wee tales.

Victoria

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Willa BlairWilla Blair, author of Heart of Stone:
Marsali Murray doesn’t really believe weaving a chain of bluebells within the circle of standing stones under a waxing moon will bring true love, but she’s desperate for more adventure than she’ll ever have in her remote village. Little does Gavan MacNabb know the lass he meets one moonlit night, the spell she sings and her determined deerhound will change the course of his life.

 

Eliza KnightEliza Knight, author of The Highlander’s Charm
English knight Samuel de Mowbray is determined to save his sisters from the Highlanders who stole them. But while in Scotland his loyalties waver and a feisty, headstrong lass could destroy everything he believes. Determined to save her clan, Catriona Buchanan must travel north to ask for help. Unfortunately, to do so, she must trust the Englishman. But there is something different about him and she can’t help but be captivated by Samuel, and his steamy kisses.

 

Victoria RobertsVictoria Roberts, author of Kilts and Kisses
Ceana Gunn wants nothing more than to see her clan the way it was when her father was still laird. But her uncle has other ideas. Ceana soon determines that the only refuge to be found is in the arms of her enemy. When Luthais MacKay is left in charge of the MacKay clan, he discovers a mysterious woman on his lands and vows to unravel her secrets…one layer at a time.

 

Vonda SinclairVonda Sinclair, author of My Captive Highlander
After a galley wreck in a storm, Shamus MacKenzie is taken hostage by the enemy MacDonalds. Maili, sister of the ruthless chief, feels compelled to bring this dark warrior food and see to his injuries. With one forbidden kiss, Shamus steals her heart. Can he convince the enchanting lass to help him escape the dungeon, preventing a battle between their clans and saving many lives?

 

Terry SpearTerry Spear, author of His Wild Highland Lass
Lady Sorcha Barclay fled her brother-in-law’s castle due to his unwelcome advances. A circle of standing stones captures her attention and she catches the eye of the local laird. Laird Ronan Daziel gives Sorcha a home. He’s duty-bound to take a wife to ensure a clan pact. Taking Sorcha to wife could lead to battle. How can he wed another when she stole his heart?

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Giveaway-Black and Yellow

Scotland’s dramatic landscapes have witnessed thousands of years of human history. No one truly knows what secrets the mysterious standing stones hold. What do you believe? One commenter will receive a paperback copy of Kissing the Highlander (US and Canada only, please.)

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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3. PLEASE answer the following question: Scotland’s dramatic landscapes have witnessed thousands of years of human history. No one truly knows what secrets the mysterious standing stones hold. What do you believe?

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8. Giveaway open to USA and CANADA only

9. Giveaway runs from February 20-24,2015

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