Scottish pride, persuasion, and passion–this is Highland romance at its breathtaking best. From USA Today bestselling author May McGoldrick comes Highland Sword, the third book in the Royal Highlander series. A VOW FOR VENGEANCE Fleeing to the Highlands after her father’s murder, fiery Morrigan Drummond has a score to settle with Sir Rupert Burney, the English spymaster responsible for his … Sir Rupert Burney, the English spymaster responsible for his death. Trained to fight alongside the other rebels determined to break Britain’s hold on Scotland, she swears to avenge her father’s death–until a chance encounter with a barrister as proud and principled as she is presents her with a hard choice…and a bittersweet temptation.
A PLEA FOR PASSION
Aidan Grant has never encountered another woman like dangerous beauty Morrigan–and he has the bruises to prove it. Yet she could be the key to defending two innocent men, as well as striking a death blow to the reprehensible Burney. Convincing Morrigan to help him will take time, but Aidan is willing to wait if it means victory over corrupt government forces and freedom for his people…and Morrigan’s hand in marriage. Can two warriors committed to a cause stand down long enough to open their hearts to a love fierce enough to last…forever?
more
Recommend reading all three books in this series. All the characters intertwine in their fight to separate Scotland from England in the mid 1800’s. This is Morrigan Drummond’s story and her single focus of revenge. The opening chapter is the first encounter between Morrigan and Adrian Grant, a barrister. A very unusual encounter, which includes a fat lip and a black eye. Adrian is on my list of top heros. “SIGH.” A slow beginning that really takes off later in the book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Barbara’s Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
Series: Royal Highlander #3
Publication 3/31/20
Number of Pages: 320
May McGoldrick has brought the Royal Highlander series to a nice tidy end with this book. The loose ends are nicely tied and the last of the ladies has finally gotten her HEA with a very likable hero. The story is well written and well-plotted. It was nice to have a visit from previous characters and to finally see Cinaed find the life he wanted.
Times are dangerous in Scotland. The English are cracking down on the Scots because they are afraid of an English uprising similar to the one in France. Instead of making laws that would make life easier for the masses, the English passed heavier and heavier tax levies. Workers were having meetings to protest those laws, and the English were infiltrating them, attacking them, and then trying them for treason. In the first book (Highland Crown), we got a look at one of these attacks first hand. Isabella Drummond and her husband are both gifted doctors who take care of anyone who comes into their clinic. Just after an attack by the English, their surgery clinic was filled. Then, the soldiers attacked the clinic killing anyone inside. Isabella’s husband was killed, but she managed to escape with her sister, Maisie (Highland Jewel), and her stepdaughter Morrigan. After harrowing adventures across the Highlands, they are all safe at Dalmigavie Castle. But, never fear, the evil spymaster for the Crown, Sir Rupert Burney, isn’t through with them yet.
We’ve surmised that Morrigan Drummond had secrets – and boy does she. She has been training with the men at Dalmigavie Castle and her skills are sharply honed. When she sees an old enemy in Inverness, she is off after him without thinking of the dangers to herself. He is in her sights – she almost has him – and some dunderheaded idiot attacks her! After she leaves her attacker bleeding on the ground, her quarry is lost. She has no choice but to return to her party and head back to Dalmigavie Castle.
Aidan Grant is a barrister from Edinburgh and he goes around defending those falsely accused of treason. He’s been looking for a witness who can clear his current clients – and he’s just spoken with him. As he is leaving, he sees this woman following his witness – and she has a knife. He has to stop her because that witness is the only thing that will keep his clients from hanging. As he tries to stop her, he ends up bleeding on the street. Not exactly how he expected things to work out, but at least his witness escaped.
Aidan’s next stop is Dalmigavie Castle to meet with the Son of Scotland and to find a place to safely keep his witness. Lo-and-behold, who is also at the castle? It is that termagant who tried to murder his witness.
I loved Aiden and Morrigan working through their enmity – and then their attraction. Aidan’s patience was wonderful and the way he supported and cared for Morrigan was delightful.
I loved that all of the ends were tied up and all of the appropriate people got their rewards or punishments. While this is the end of this series, there are some characters I would hope would have their own books at some point in the future.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Morrigan Drummond is on a mission. She wants revenge for the murder of her father. He was a doctor who was killed by the English as he tried to defend his patients. I loved this heroine! She’s a skilled warrior and has a fierce desire to protect those she loves. She won’t let the pain and betrayal she has suffered stop her. I was upset at what Morrigan endured at the hand of a someone she trusted. I wanted her to be able to escape her memories. When she meets Aiden, he prevents her from killing the Sparrow, a turncoat. She bests him and escapes, but they are destined to meet again. I disliked this lowly villain. He has caused so much pain. He hurt Morrigan and now wants forgiveness. Unbelievable! Aidan is intrigued by this beautiful woman but she rebuffs him. She has closed her heart to love. I was thankful that Aidan won’t give up. They have so much chemistry. As they fight to save Scotland from the oppressive political machinations, they open their hearts. Can Aidan’s determination overcome Morrigan’s fear? I hoped so. Highland Sword is an exciting story filled with romance and danger. May Mcgoldrick kept me enthralled with her well written story, vibrant characters and passionate romance. This series pulled me in. I can’t wait for more.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
@Celticbarb BOOKREVIEW
Book: Highland Sword
by May McGoldrick
Series: (Royal Highlander, Book #3)
Release Date: March 31st 2020
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
Tartan Book Reviews
Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews, Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: Heartwarming
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Warning: Spoilers from “Highland Crown” and “Highland Jewel”. Thought the connections and character backgrounds might help readers who were reading “Highland Sword” first.
Dalmigavie Castle, the Highlands
September 1820
The heroine of this story is Morrigan Drummond. A woman whose father is murdered several years earlier, because of that corrupt unscrupulous, English Spymaster, Sir Rupert Burney! She definitely wants vengeance against this treacherous black guard! Morrigan felt so helpless on the day her father was murdered. Now with the help of her step-mother’s new husband and his men, they teach her how to be a proficient fighter and how to protect and defend herself. She trains with the Macintosh men everyday in the lists, some might call her a warrior, some might call her a trained assassin, and some might possibly call her an overachiever and perfectionist!
Slight spoilers from Highland Crown and Highland Jewel:
Morrigan’s physician-step-mother, Isabella
Murray Drummond has a new husband. His name is Cinaed Macintosh. A man with royal bloodlines and is called {The Son of Scotland} on the broadsheets. Her step-mother’s younger sister is Maisie Murray, whose best friend is Fiona Campbell, a widow with two of the bonniest, sweet, young, daughters. Fiona was captured by that knave Rupert Burne, due to their strong beliefs and allegiance to the women’s suffrage and reform movement. This is how Maisie meets and falls in love with Fiona’s retired war/hero brother, Niall Campbell. He is now her husband and they do finally get Fiona out of prison eventually.
The hero of this story is Barrister, Aidan Grant. He is surprised that Burne informer and spy Robert Sparrow, enters his office. He looks at his brother Sebastian shaking his head, knowing what his brother is thinking, “do not trust this crooked and despicable liar! Aidan just needs him to be alive through the trial. So he must know the reason why he chose him and Sparrow replies, simply wanting the best lawyer in Scotland! Aidan realized he can’t work anymore due to his illness. Now he wants to retire and end his filthy dishonorable career. This double agent finds out many want him dead, as he has too much information about these corrupt officials and government. He promises Aidan he will give him names, places, dates, times. Sparrow just wants a peaceful death. Can Aidan even trust this traitor and will his word even mean anything in court. As he knows the home office will paint Sparrow as a dishonorable employee possibly another trait
Morrigan is shocked to see the cause and reason of the worse turmoil of her past life, besides her father’s murder. She can share her grief with others about her father’s death, but her father was the only person that knew about her past secret trauma. This would never ever go away and let her move on. She could never be a normal person with a bright future, as long as this corrupt man was alive because of this. With his death will her scars disappear? He is the reason for her invisible scars that are She feels the only way to possibly have a normal future is to remove this monster from the earth and let him burn in hell for eternity! She honestly feels the only way to end her agony is to end his miserable life! This was a spontaneous move as good samaritan who looked at her as if she was absolutely insane. Of course Sebastian was loving this that a lass was kickinh my Aidan’s arse plus she got away.
Aiden’s brother Sebastian, does not trust Sparrow for good reason and worries he is going to betray them. So they follow him to through the alley and spots this beauty ready to do Sparrow some serious harm. and follow him down an alley in Inverness. Lawyer Aiden, notices a woman is following Sparrow and then watches her taking sgian dubh out of her boot. He sends Sebastian ahead to follow and keep a tail on Sparrow and then steps in to stop her assault and was not ready for her full attack on him! He was shocked he was physically fighting with a beautiful woman who fought like a man. Plus she gave him such a thrashing and got away from him! Aiden was the fellow who didn’t even get scratch from Waterloo yet this young woman (Morrigan Drummond) unknown to him gave him so many injuries! Of course his brother Sebastian who lost an arm in the war thought this was hilarious looking at Aidan’s swollen face! Done in by a bloody woman yet he did feel guilty for hitting her as he did not believe in raising a hand to the fairer sex.
A few days later, it turns out the Grant brothers ironically brought Sparrow so Dr. Isabella Macintosh could care for their ill informant. Plus both Morrigan and Adrian both had swollen faces, she realized how this brilliant lawyer might even get a spot on Parliament according to Isabella . The worst of it is the man she does not care he is dying and hopes he suffers for it and in lots of pain! This made her want to vomit as she is furious, shaken and tormented that this poor excuse of a human being is even here!
As time goes on Aidan sees how beautiful, intelligent and brave Morrigan Drummond is. He also discovers another secret Sparrow is holding. He sees Morrigan is from and understands Sparrows bad character this man’s bad character and the harm he caused other people. He doesn’t know the reason for Morrigan wanting to kill Sparrow , but understands he probably deserved it!
Now Aiden sees how perfect Morrigan is, plus he is very aware what a piece of rubbish that Wemys is! As feelings develop very quickly between these two, could it be love? The first man to open Morrigans heart and is seeing what a brave, smart, kind hearted, man Aidan is! She also believes she’s not good enough for him, if he ever found out her secret it would destroy his promising future and career. Although Aidan will not take no for an answer and continues to woe Morrigan and put everything aside for the woman he loves. Another dangerous enemy has incriminating information on Morrigan plus he despises Aiden Grant who has made a fool of him more than once. Desperate times take desperate measures. Will this enemy destroy this star crossed couple forever? Will Aiden take his seat at Parliament and forget all about Morrigan? Could Aidan’s career survive a scandal? Is Morrigan safe from government manipulation and harm? Will the corrupt home office incarcerate Morrigan? Will Isabella and Cinaed also be caught and incarcerated? Will Isabella deliver a baby in prison? Is Queen Caroline’s life in danger? Will Cinaed be the next King in Scotland? Is Morrigan and Aidan free from harm or possible destruction? Does Aidan have a chance to win Morrigan over, or is it too little-too late? So many unanswered questions and a definite must read! A book readers definitely don’t want to miss!
This is sadly the last book in the Royal Highland trilogy. I loved all the characters from all three books and even a cameo from May McGoldrick’s classic Pennington series which was a lovely surprise. I did give a quick description of each book in this review. I would recommend you read each book in this series, as it is like connecting the dots. I personally think readers will understand the connections to Isabella, Maisie, and Morrigan. Each book centers around these three powerful women and the men that capture their hearts. They will understand what issues they are passionate about with each relationship to each other. Although Isabella is Morrigan’s step-mum they are more like sisters-
as Isabella was quite a bit younger than her first husband, Morrigan’s father. I found all of these relationships fascinating!
This book has my favorite ingredients for reading books. I love when true history is weaved with a fictional story – that was an absolutely masterpiece! Also I love some cameo from true historic figures in history too! I loved the pairing of Morrigan and Aidan. Plus a mini reunion as all the main characters from this series was in this book. To me these are some of the reasons it was super fun read! These two authors Nikoo and Jim McGoldrick are super multi-talented storytellers, an absolute dynamic duo and I love every story they create! I have been reading them for nearly twenty-five years and am totally devoted! Love each and every book I have read by May McGoldrick! As each and every book is absolutely a riveting, historical, action-packed, romantic adventure that is awe-inspiring, fast-paced, page turner. This ‘book includes all the elements historical ‘romance readers love! The plotting was amazing, as it had so many twists and turns too which was absolutely exhilarating too! The setting was beautiful, with amazing dialogue. The multi dimensional characters both good and bad ones were magnificent, bonnie children and the games were absolutely enchanting too. I would love to see a future book for Aidan Grants war hero and armless brother Sebastian. He definitely deserves a happily ever after, a book for Fiona and John world be lovely too.
You can definitely read Highland Sword as a stand alone! I personally think you will get more out of it reading the entire series. I definitely recommend “Highland Sword” it is such a spectacular read from start to finish!
Another McGoldrick Masterpiece!
Disclaimer: I received this book from St. Martin’s Paperback publishers for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review, blog and promote through netgalley. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own. Go join Tartan Book Reviews for Buy Links & more McGoldrick book promotions
Fantastic historical romance for history lovers!
This entire trilogy has been absolutely wonderful, rooted in historical accuracy and loosely based on historical facts and figures, yet filled to the brim with amazing detail and fictional characters that bring the history to life. While each (including this one) is a standalone romance, there are quite a lot of interconnected people and events that tie all the books together to make one epic historical adventure.
In this final book of the trilogy, we have a warrior maiden named Morrigan, a woman with her own plans for vengeance, and a brilliant lawyer, Aidan, a man who will risk everything for truth and justice. These two at first seem to be on opposing sides (their “meet cute” is most definitely anything but cute) but their shared passions soon have them fighting together against a common foe.
As a history buff as well as a romance enthusiast, I love the way this series mixes fact and fiction. I absolutely adored the way Aiden arranged things for Morrigan once she made up her mind. His tender insight into what she needed was beyond sweet, and proved just how perfect he was for her. Their pairing brought out the best in each of them, and together they’re a truly unstoppable team.
I want to warn sensitive readers that this story contains the brief description of a sexual assault on a child, told in retrospect. It was handled delicately and respectfully, but it was crucial to the overall story and therefore could not have been omitted.
Highlander romances is one of my all-time favorite genres, and I especially love this book (and the entire trilogy) because of the ring of authenticity wrapped around life-and-death adventure and a legendary romance. It’s everything I could want in a historical romance. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Highland Sword is the third book in the Royal Highlander series by May McGoldrick, which is the nom de plume of the phenomenal writing team of Nikoo and Jim McGoldrick. This book can stand alone, but I highly recommend you read the previous two books first. If you don’t, you’ll be missing a lot of background and the development of the characters. This story was the perfect blend of history, politics and, of course, romance. Trigger warning and possible spoiler alert: This volume contains references to a sexual assault.
Morrigan Drummond fled to the Highlands with her family after her physician father was murdered. She vows revenge on English spymaster Sir Rupert Burney, the man ultimately responsible for his death. She trains with the other rebels at Dalmigavie Castle, biding her time. While going after a man she plans on killing, she is confronted by barrister Aidan Grant, who needs said man as a witness in order to save two innocent clients. In the battle between Morrigan and Aidan, he basically had his butt handed to him. Is he humiliated? Not Aidan; he is extremely intrigued by this warrior woman. He does his best to convince Morrigan to help him in order to put an end to Burney’s reign of terror.
I was intrigued by Morrigan in the glimpses we received of her in the previous books; I couldn’t wait to read her story. She was truly a warrior, but also a woman conflicted and hurt about an incident in her past. My heart broke for her, yet I also admired her strength. And then there is Aidan…I LOVED Aidan! I’ve put him on my list of favorite romance heroes ever. Aidan does his best to seek justice for his Scottish countrymen and women, first by being a barrister and also by his future plans to become a member of Parliament. He was intrigued by Morrigan from the start, and the two first became friends before deeper feelings rose to the surface. He had the deepest respect for Morrigan and refused to give into passion unless they married. ~Sigh~ The romance was beautiful, but I also loved the witty banter between the two. It was wonderful to see the couples in the previous books, and I adored Aidan’s brother Sebastian. I would love to see funny and endearing Sebastian have a book of his own. Don’t miss this fascinating series!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
The development of this story is slow in places, but very well described. The characters are lovable and the plot is interesting.
Aidan and Morrigan are strangers at their first brutal and unusual first encounter. What they didn’t know is that they are both fighting for the same cause and destined to meet again. Unknowingly Aidan revives Morrigan’s horrid past. A past that she has kept buried even when it weighs her down. She is quite positive that her future is bleak, despite all the family support. Can Aidan restore her faith in a happy future?
Aidan is patient and his sense of humour makes light of dire circumstances. He is also very good at his job, and his reasoning is quite impressive. Morrigan is hot headed, which often lands her in hot waters, but as the story develops she becomes more sensible about thinking before acting. They balance each other nicely and get their happily ever after. The manipulations are portrayed and handled very nicely. Beat the enemy at his own game.
I was kindly issued with an eARC from Netgalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
This was a wonderful conclusion to this series. I have enjoyed all of the books. This is Morrigan’s story. She and the hero, Aidan Grant, butt heads at the beginning; we all know the old adage… “opposites attract”, it’s true in this case. Morrigan has relocated to northern Scotland with her step mother and step sister; since the tragic events that occurred in Highland Jewel. While on a trip to Inverness; Morrigan sees a man from her past and decides she needs to confront/eliminate him and hopefully, her long repressed demons along with him. Morrigan has learned how to protect herself and always carries a sgian dubh in her boot. She trains most mornings at the castle with the head of the guard. She is so focused on her revenge that she doesn’t realize she’s been followed. What ensues is her and Aidan’s story; sprinkled, of course, with the history of the times, including the need for reforms and acknowledgement of Scotland by the English monarchy, etc.
First of all i want to say I immensely enjoyed reading Highland Sword. The story let me feel like I was a part of some very important historical event. It kept me in a loop of hope, frustration and wish for the better.
This book was a masterpiece of nultiple stories beautifully entwined together. The one couldn’t exist without the other.
I love historical romance and this one with all the intrigues, fighting for the rights of Scotland, fighting enemies, who were always steps ahead was no exception.
I fell in love with Aiden Grant and wanted to push Morrigan over her boundaries to finally except her feelings for Aiden. But that’s just it, this is a great story with great characters meant to stay in your memory forever.
Highland Sword is the final book in the Royal Highlander trilogy.
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway and in return promised my honest review.
Morrigan Drummond has a short temper and a knife handy at all times. She promised herself that she would never be hurt again, so she learned to fight. Morrigan and her step-mother fled to the Highlands, Scotland, after her father was murdered and she wants to see Sir Rupert Burney, an English Spymaster, be held responsible. On a visit to The Maggot, Iverness, Morrigan slipped away from the Mackintosh men and followed the evil man that ruined her life. But she encounters a proud and handsome man that gives her no choice but to fight and flee…
Aidan Grant, Barrister, has never met a woman like the one he fought off to save a client; even if the client is first rate scum. Aidan is drawn to the strength and beauty of Morrigan and knows she may be the key to bringing down Burney. But convincing her to help him will take some time but Aidan doesn’t mind the wait if it means they get a victory in taking down a corrupt government and it’s forces. As the game of “cat and mice” comes to a head Aidan realizes he wants Morrigan’s hand in marriage. Can he convince his lady warrior to stand down only long enough to commit her heart to a lasting love then take up the Highland Sword beside him forever?
Highland Sword
A Royal Highlander Series #3
May McGoldrick
https://www.facebook.com/MayMcGoldrick/
Release date 03/31/2020
Publisher St Martin’s Paperbacks
Blurb :
A VOW FOR VENGEANCE
Fleeing to the Highlands after her father’s murder, fiery Morrigan Drummond has a score to settle with Sir Rupert Burney, the English spymaster responsible for his death. Trained to fight alongside the other rebels determined to break Britain’s hold on Scotland, she swears to avenge her father’s death—until a chance encounter with a barrister as proud and principled as she is presents her with a hard choice…and a bittersweet temptation.
A PLEA FOR PASSION
Aidan Grant has never encountered another woman like dangerous beauty Morrigan—and he has the bruises to prove it. Yet she could be the key to defending two innocent men, as well as striking a death blow to the reprehensible Burney. Convincing Morrigan to help him will take time, but Aidan is willing to wait if it means victory over corrupt government forces and freedom for his people…and Morrigan’s hand in marriage. Can two warriors committed to a cause stand down long enough to open their hearts to a love fierce enough to last…forever?
My review :
When a woman seeking revenge meets a man wanting justice, can they find a common ground…
This is my first read by the duet of authors, and
as the third book in a series, I had to catch up with the many characters from the two previous stories, and even if this one is a standalone some side characters from the other tales interact with the main protagonists, it takes some time to get acquainted with everyone.
I even googled for some historical informations as England history was not on my cursus, it cleared some parts of the background plot, as grand history is mixed with fiction.
On the romance part, it is a slow burn one, going on the long run. Nothing is rushed between Morrigan and Aidan.
Their first encounter is quite a thing, one for memory with fists and daggers involved. From there, their relationship moves from physical interactions to battle of wits.
I quite loved to see them slowly fall for the other, as much seduced by the brain than the aspect of one another.
Still they have to navigate the Intricate webs of lies, betrayals and deceits surrounding them and only waging to pounce on them.
Aidan is a superhero of the courtrooms, he uses his profond knowledge of human nature to drive people where he wants them to be.
He is clever and open minded, why he does not renege his attraction for Morrigan, if her fiery temper is far from ideal at first for a barrister looking for a political outcome, he does not let it deter it from pursuing her. She is the woman he wants and he uses his praetorian talent to woo her.
Morrigan is a woman of many layers, she rebuilt herself as a stronger woman, one to attack first and question later. She refuses to ever be again a victim. Her past wound is still raw, it is at the root of her attitude. I loved she gave herself the strength to rise from her ashes. Yet, the past always lingers at the border and until she confronts it in the face, she will still be a prisoner of her own fear, mind and scars. Despite her mistakes, she braves her worst nightmares and refuses to cower when threatened of exposure.
I do not know how narrated are the other romances by this duet but here I felt like I was watching a movie unfolding before me, with actions, many protagonists playing their own part, a driving plot and a romance brewing slowly as a conducting wire.
4.5 stars for this tale of resilience and faith.
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher St Martin’s Paperbacks through Netgalley.
I purchased my own. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272830/posts/563241374265038/?d=n
The Highland trilogy comes to a worthy – and fast paced – end. (Or will this no longer be a trilogy?)
Morrigan was not a character I much cared for in the previous books, but here she comes to life. She must literally face her past and come to terms with it.
As a barrister representing accused enemies of the crown, Aidan has to be – and is – a very cautious man. And patient. His patience helps him in dealing with Morrigan.
I was drawn into their world and stayed up very late to finish reading.
I especially enjoyed the sarcasm and dry humor of Aidan’s brother and sidekick, Sebastian. He never missed a chance for some good-natured ribbing of his older brother, which Aidan weathers with much aplomb. Hmm, could there be a spin-off with Sebastian’s story?
There was very little to no description of the discussion and planning of the revenge against Sir Rupert; suddenly all was in place.
I read an advanced reader copy I received via NetGalley; the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Highland Sword
A Royal Highlander Novel by May McGoldrick is Book 3 of “A Royal Highlander” series, while, it can be read as a stand alone, however, I would recommend reading HIGHLAND CROWN and HIGHLAND JEWEL, first, just to have a better understanding of the characters, however, you don’t have to in order to enjoy HIGHLAND SWORD. Set in 1820 Scotland, during what was dubbed “Radical War of 1820. Fast paced, well crafted and expertly excuted.
May McGoldrick has weaved actual facts and real historical characters with fiction, brilliantly.
A tale of intrigue, danger, bits of humor, and romance. A Historical adventure that’s fun, intriguing, romantically engaging with magnetic characters. Readers with be drawn into Aidan and Morrigan’s story. Political intrigue, parliamentary reform, strong heroine, revolutionary militant and a brawn, brave hero, will keep readers on the edge if their seats. Dangerous and compelling story. The epilogue pulls everything together. I believe this is the final book in A ROYAL HIGHLANDER series. A magnificent, climactic finish! Highly recommended for fans of historical facts, Scottish history, revolutionary war, strong heroines, brave, brawn heroes, romance, and finding a HEA
“I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however, these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review.”
#NetGalley, #HighlandSword,#MayMcGoldrick
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewer: AprilR
Highland Sword is a spectacular historical romance by May McGoldrick. Ms. McGoldrick has once again produced a well-written book populated with an outstanding cast of characters. Morrigan is wanted but continues to do what she thinks is best, often putting herself in danger. Aidan is a barrister and will be defending 2 innocent men. Morrigan and Aidan share a secret. Their story is packed with drama, humor, sizzle, action and suspense. I loved this book from cover to cover and look forward to my next book by May McGoldrick. Highland Sword is book 3 of the Royal Highlander Series and reading books 1 & 2 would help you understand the back-story, it can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
ssshwearereading.wordpress.com/2020/01/26/highland-sword-by-may-mcgoldrick/
Another absolute stunner by May McGoldrick!
Before I even started Highland Sword, I already knew I would love this book. There is no one who writes like the McGoldricks do. I love every single one of their books. The history flows so effortlessly in and through every story. The balance of story to history is perfect. It is rare to find an author(s) that is able to keep the historical detail in the forefront, without overwhelming the story. Highland Sword lived up to my every expectation.
The vibrant characters are three dimensional and vivacious. Morrigan is one of my all time favorite heroines. She doesn’t just get mad, she gets stabby. I love her. Though she has experienced traumatic experiences, she does not let them define her. She is fierce. Aidan is an equally perfect hero. A barrister with a reputation for defending the innocent against an increasingly corrupt government. They are a match made in heaven!
The plot is well developed, easy to follow, and fun to read. Highland Sword kept me on the edge of my seat. I particularly enjoyed the appearance of beloved characters from earlier in the series.
Highly recommend this and every May McGoldrick book to all fans of excellent historical fiction.
Excellent! Very well written historical romance. Perfect blend of intrigue, adventure, history and romance. Morrigan is feisty, practical, a pillar of strength, courage and compassion. Absolutely loved her interactions with Aidan, that are so comical yet serious. I laughed my way through several pages after their first encounter which is one of the most unforgettable, engaging and instantly gripping scenes I’ve read. Aidan is a great character as well, very kind, determined and patient. This was such a joy to read and will be my go-to when I need to read a book that I am guaranteed to love revisiting. I was provided a free copy by NetGalley without obligation and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Morrigan Drummond has so far led a life full of danger. Her father was a doctor but involved with the rebellious causes. After his death she travelled with her stepsister and step-mother, also a doctor into the Scottish highlands. She has learned to protect herself by training with the men. The sight of an old enemy sends her rushing for revenge.
Aidan Grant is a laywer who defends those accused of offences against the crown. The biggest problem he has is the courts and officials he must deal with are corrupt. He needs an informant to testify.
This is an action packed story full of excitement, danger and humour. Fabulous characters many of which were in the previous books in the seried. You can enjoy this on it’s own but the series is better read in order.
Very exciting.
I always enjoy it when an author takes some true historical facts and weave their own story around it! I love nothing better than to research those true facts afterwards and learn even more about history, my favourite subject:) This was a wonderful story to read and the author knows how to keep your attention from start to finish.
Morrigan (love that name!!) is quite the fierce warrior and wants nothing but revenge for what was done to her and her family in the past. Aiden is a barrister who is looking at getting into politics and when they meet, sparks fly….as well as fists! I don’t think I’ve ever read about such a first meeting! lol The story takes place during the era when England has a hold of Scotland and the fight is on for their freedom, as well as peace. You will encounter corrupt government, danger, blackmail, backstabbing, and you will also encounter passion, love, loyalty and redemption.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Highland Sword is the third book in the Royal Highlander series. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series that is strongly entrenched in history. Morrigan Drummond is a fierce fighter for Scottish rights after seeing her father killed by the British. She is bent on revenge, training with swords and knives, solely focused on her purpose. That is, until she meets Scottish barrister, Aidan Grant. Is there room in their busy lives for love?
I recently heard the McGoldricks (Nikoo and Jim) explain the differences between historical fiction and historical romance. They stated that this series is historical fiction. I see their point, but the three books in the series hit me a little differently. The first and third books clearly read as historical romance to me (a heavy focus on the romantic relationship), but the second book was more historical fiction.
This is a very solid series that illuminates the challenges of the Scottish to rule themselves in the years after their defeat at Culloden. There was lots of danger and intrigue happening while people still had ordinary lives to live. If a reader has any interest in Scottish history they should not miss these excellent books.
ARC provided through Netgalley. Apologies to the McGoldricks and St. Martin’s for how long it took me to write this review. I’m blaming it on the virus.
Highland Sword is the 3rd installment in the Royal highlander Series by May McGoldrick. This is the first book I have read by this author. Even though this is the 3rd and final book in this trilogy it can be read as a standalone. The story is well written and the characters well defined. I enjoyed this book but I would suggest reading the other two previous books. Previous characters make appearances in this book and it helps to have a little more background. This book does tie up all loose ends and provides closure. I would recommend this book to Historical Romance Readers.