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Children of the Mist #1
Highland Renegade
Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, has received title to lands in the Highlands—MacGregor lands—and after surviving an abusive marriage, she’s determined to make a new start...without a man. She just has to win over the handsome Scottish laird whose family has lived there for centuries. How hard could it be?
When Ian MacGregor heard that the Sassenach countess was actually laying claim to his lands, he figured to scare the aging widow away by showing her the hardships of living in the Highlands. She’d leave before the first snowflake fell. But he never imagined that the widow was young and beautiful and more territorial than a she-wolf. No matter, he’ll prove that a fragile, London woman like her would never survive life without her servants…and if he happens to give her the coldest and most remote rooms, all the better.
Despite his best efforts to freeze her out, things between them heat up. But Highlanders hate the Sassenach, so Ian faces a dire choice—his clan or the irresistible English aristocrat who seems to have taken not only his lands, but also his heart.
When Ian MacGregor heard that the Sassenach countess was actually laying claim to his lands, he figured to scare the aging widow away by showing her the hardships of living in the Highlands. She’d leave before the first snowflake fell. But he never imagined that the widow was young and beautiful and more territorial than a she-wolf. No matter, he’ll prove that a fragile, London woman like her would never survive life without her servants…and if he happens to give her the coldest and most remote rooms, all the better.
Despite his best efforts to freeze her out, things between them heat up. But Highlanders hate the Sassenach, so Ian faces a dire choice—his clan or the irresistible English aristocrat who seems to have taken not only his lands, but also his heart.
258 pages, ebook
Published September 21, 2020
About the author
Cynthia Breeding
96 books76 followers An avid reader of anything medieval, Cynthia Breeding has taught the traditional Arthurian legends to high school sophomores for fifteen years. She owns more than three hundred books, fictional and non-fictional, on the subject. More information on Arthur, Gwenhwyfar and Lancelot can be found on the Historical Account link.
In addition, she has won numerous awards including the Holt Medallion, Beacon Contest, Barclay Gold, More Than Magic and Ancient City Romance Authors.
Cynthia lives on the bay with her Bichon Frise and enjoys sailing and riding on the beach. Readers can reach her snail-mail at: 3636 S. Alameda, B-116, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 or visit via her website.
In addition, she has won numerous awards including the Holt Medallion, Beacon Contest, Barclay Gold, More Than Magic and Ancient City Romance Authors.
Cynthia lives on the bay with her Bichon Frise and enjoys sailing and riding on the beach. Readers can reach her snail-mail at: 3636 S. Alameda, B-116, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 or visit via her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
September 5, 2020
HISTORICAL ROMANCE THAT DIDN'T SIZZLE
Writing this review is actually kind of hard, because I was neither blown away nor sorely disappointed by this book. It was just fine, no major highs and no major lows. Just fine.
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
Juliana and Rory: My favourite part of this book was actually not the main characters, Emily and Ian (though I did like Emily). What I enjoyed the most was their siblings, Emily's sister Juliana and Ian's brother Rory. Those two had such a fun chemistry filled with banter. I am looking forward to seeing how that relationship progresses.
Emily: Emily was a nice character. She was determined to make something of herself and to prove that she could do it on her own without a man. She was tenacious and it endeared her to me.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Mary, Queen of Scots: This takes place in the highlands in the late 18th century. Many of the characters are Scotsmen. Yet they still refer to Mary, Queen of Scots as Mary, Queen of Scots! Every time I read that it rankled with me. Now, I can't prove that Scotsmen would not have called her that at this point in time - it is, after all, 200 years after her death. But I just feel like it would be more realistic if they referred to her as Mary I (which she was, in Scotland) or Mary Stuart.
Chemistry: Ian and Emily is the central couple of this story, but I didn't buy their relationship. I didn't feel any chemistry between them. It was just... nice. Nothing more, nothing less.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog Post: 49 Relatable, Bookish Quotes
Writing this review is actually kind of hard, because I was neither blown away nor sorely disappointed by this book. It was just fine, no major highs and no major lows. Just fine.
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
Juliana and Rory: My favourite part of this book was actually not the main characters, Emily and Ian (though I did like Emily). What I enjoyed the most was their siblings, Emily's sister Juliana and Ian's brother Rory. Those two had such a fun chemistry filled with banter. I am looking forward to seeing how that relationship progresses.
Emily: Emily was a nice character. She was determined to make something of herself and to prove that she could do it on her own without a man. She was tenacious and it endeared her to me.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Mary, Queen of Scots: This takes place in the highlands in the late 18th century. Many of the characters are Scotsmen. Yet they still refer to Mary, Queen of Scots as Mary, Queen of Scots! Every time I read that it rankled with me. Now, I can't prove that Scotsmen would not have called her that at this point in time - it is, after all, 200 years after her death. But I just feel like it would be more realistic if they referred to her as Mary I (which she was, in Scotland) or Mary Stuart.
Chemistry: Ian and Emily is the central couple of this story, but I didn't buy their relationship. I didn't feel any chemistry between them. It was just... nice. Nothing more, nothing less.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 49 Relatable, Bookish Quotes
April 21, 2024
I don't have enough words to express how much I detested this book
80% of this book is either
💢 History Lesson
💢 Boring political talk
The "NO ONE CARES" history lessons
I don't know (nor do I fucking care) if the historical elements mentioned here are true or not. What I do care about is having to listen to long, unending paragraphs of how the stupid dishonorable McGregors ended up where they ended up.
Every single historical fact mentioned needed to be justified by the authors.
"Right now, X because Y." Would've been enough. But it was as if she didn't have the confidence to write in a convincing way because we got
"Right now, X because Y. That can be traced back to 1*** when OOO did A, which led to B then to C and well, you know that led to E. Of course it could've been F, but as you know it was G."
This book takes place in 1770 something, why the fuck are Robert The Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots mentioned? And for all that they are where they are, the author keeps tip toeing around the Jacobites. As if she couldn't bring herself to mentioned it because it wouldn't be appropriate to say they lost.
The Jacobite Revolution/Rebellion/Insurrection whatever you wanna called it failed. See? That wasn't so hard.
The "KILL ME NOW" political talks
HOW MANY TIMES ARE THE BROTHERS GOING TO GO OVER THE SAME EXACT POINTS?!?!?!
They keep going in circle about how to treat the heroine, how they are going to have their name back, whether they go or don't go to the stupid ball, how they can use the heroine to win favors... They all come to nothing each time.
The most dishonorable hero I've ever read
➜ McGregors lost the right to their lands but are still allowed to be stewards.
➜ The heroine is given ownership of the land by the king.
➜ They don't know that, they just think she's the new overseer or whatever the correct word was.
➜ They don't want her to come so HE LIES ON HIS REPORTS. He underplays their income, the number of livestock and even hides the whiskey production and its gains.
➜ When they find out she's the owner, they double down on the strategy hoping she'll still go away.
➜ When she asks for a tour, he dupes her so he doesn't have to take her
➜ When she asks for the account books, he doesn't want to give them
All the while they complain about the dishonorable king and him not keeping the grandfather's promise to ever give their lands away.
Are. You. For. Real??????
PS: They get together. What a neat solution. How come no one thought of that? 🤡
80% of this book is either
💢 History Lesson
💢 Boring political talk
The "NO ONE CARES" history lessons
I don't know (nor do I fucking care) if the historical elements mentioned here are true or not. What I do care about is having to listen to long, unending paragraphs of how the stupid dishonorable McGregors ended up where they ended up.
Every single historical fact mentioned needed to be justified by the authors.
"Right now, X because Y." Would've been enough. But it was as if she didn't have the confidence to write in a convincing way because we got
"Right now, X because Y. That can be traced back to 1*** when OOO did A, which led to B then to C and well, you know that led to E. Of course it could've been F, but as you know it was G."
This book takes place in 1770 something, why the fuck are Robert The Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots mentioned? And for all that they are where they are, the author keeps tip toeing around the Jacobites. As if she couldn't bring herself to mentioned it because it wouldn't be appropriate to say they lost.
The Jacobite Revolution/Rebellion/Insurrection whatever you wanna called it failed. See? That wasn't so hard.
The "KILL ME NOW" political talks
HOW MANY TIMES ARE THE BROTHERS GOING TO GO OVER THE SAME EXACT POINTS?!?!?!
They keep going in circle about how to treat the heroine, how they are going to have their name back, whether they go or don't go to the stupid ball, how they can use the heroine to win favors... They all come to nothing each time.
The most dishonorable hero I've ever read
➜ McGregors lost the right to their lands but are still allowed to be stewards.
➜ The heroine is given ownership of the land by the king.
➜ They don't know that, they just think she's the new overseer or whatever the correct word was.
➜ They don't want her to come so HE LIES ON HIS REPORTS. He underplays their income, the number of livestock and even hides the whiskey production and its gains.
➜ When they find out she's the owner, they double down on the strategy hoping she'll still go away.
➜ When she asks for a tour, he dupes her so he doesn't have to take her
➜ When she asks for the account books, he doesn't want to give them
All the while they complain about the dishonorable king and him not keeping the grandfather's promise to ever give their lands away.
Are. You. For. Real??????
PS: They get together. What a neat solution. How come no one thought of that? 🤡
September 8, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💋💋
I could easily become addicted to Cynthia’s wonderful characters and Children of the Mist’s beautiful and adventurous world.
This book was so good to read , sometimes you just need a really great Highland adventure to hit the right spot and this was perfect.
Excellent characters, that I can’t wait to read more about .
A wonderful world of danger, passion and intrigue.
A family that has so many different people, all who will have their own stories to tell.
All this set in one of the most stunning backdrops on this planet.
What’s not to love?
This is definitely a series I will be looking out for in the future.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
I could easily become addicted to Cynthia’s wonderful characters and Children of the Mist’s beautiful and adventurous world.
This book was so good to read , sometimes you just need a really great Highland adventure to hit the right spot and this was perfect.
Excellent characters, that I can’t wait to read more about .
A wonderful world of danger, passion and intrigue.
A family that has so many different people, all who will have their own stories to tell.
All this set in one of the most stunning backdrops on this planet.
What’s not to love?
This is definitely a series I will be looking out for in the future.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
September 7, 2020
This was a most entertaining read that moved along at a good pace. I enjoyed the banter between both sets of siblings. There was so much to love about this story, the attraction between Emily and Ian, the dispute about regaining their name and possibly their lands and how this would affect Emily and her sisters and to discover who is trying to kill Emily. The latter will keep you guessing. There is also the back ground story as to why Emily and her sisters have ventured North and Ian and his brother’s background. I’m looking forward to reading more about their families. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 18, 2021
This was enjoyable. Not a new favorite but I did like seeing the story and romance progress. I'm interested in reading more of the series despite seriously disliking the heroines sisters. But the heroes brothers I def want to see more of.
September 19, 2020
Thank you Entangled Publishing , LLC for providing me with an ARC in return of an honest review. After the death of her husband, Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, receives title to lands owned by the MacGregors for centuries in the Highlands of Scotland. So, she decides to move along with her sisters, Lorelei and Juliana, to the MacGregor castle in the Highlands.
Ian MacGregor, the laird of the MacGregor clan is less than pleased to learn that the English countess is coming for a visit. Set in 1774, when the Scotts and the English were not in the best of terms, Ian and his brothers do not welcome the idea of the visit of the Countess. They decide to scare the old widow away by not providing her with enough aristocracy.
On the arrival of the Sassenachs, the MacGregors are surprised to find a young widow with two younger sisters and become even more displeased to learn that their castle and lands are now owned by the English Countess.
Ian along with his brothers is determined to reclaim their lands and restore their name as the clan’s protection and well being is his responsibility. But when Emily starts to take matters of the castle into her hands, Ian finds that she is not a regular English Countess, rather an independent, skilled and clever woman. Even though Ian has the best interest of his clan, he finds himself attracted towards Emily and soon learns, like him, Emily is also trying to protect her sisters.
While Emily firmly resolves to make a place for her and her sisters in the castle among the MacGregors by trying to help them restore their name and property, Ian tries to balance out the quarrels between both the families. The plot takes a turn when someone attempts to kill Emily multiple times.
By helping to restore the MacGregors properties, will Emily be able to provide shelter to her sisters or will she return to London homeless?
Overall, I loved Highland Renegade for its plot setup, characters, mystery, romance and the silly quarrels between the MacGregors and the Sassenachs. It is a highly engrossing and captivating story. I loved the characters of Ian and Emily for their family values and responsibilities. The story being set over 200 years back, Emily being a woman earned my respect for her ardent will to support her family. Also, Ian greatly managed his responsibilities as a laird and understood Emily for her decisions.
But the only reason I am rating this book 3 stars is because when Emily falls down the stairs and hit her head hard enough to be almost out of sense, Ian takes advantage of the situation to kiss her, which is unlikely of the character he evolves into in the book and this was quite unsettling for me.
But I definitely am looking forward to reading more works of Cynthia Breeding.
Ian MacGregor, the laird of the MacGregor clan is less than pleased to learn that the English countess is coming for a visit. Set in 1774, when the Scotts and the English were not in the best of terms, Ian and his brothers do not welcome the idea of the visit of the Countess. They decide to scare the old widow away by not providing her with enough aristocracy.
On the arrival of the Sassenachs, the MacGregors are surprised to find a young widow with two younger sisters and become even more displeased to learn that their castle and lands are now owned by the English Countess.
Ian along with his brothers is determined to reclaim their lands and restore their name as the clan’s protection and well being is his responsibility. But when Emily starts to take matters of the castle into her hands, Ian finds that she is not a regular English Countess, rather an independent, skilled and clever woman. Even though Ian has the best interest of his clan, he finds himself attracted towards Emily and soon learns, like him, Emily is also trying to protect her sisters.
While Emily firmly resolves to make a place for her and her sisters in the castle among the MacGregors by trying to help them restore their name and property, Ian tries to balance out the quarrels between both the families. The plot takes a turn when someone attempts to kill Emily multiple times.
By helping to restore the MacGregors properties, will Emily be able to provide shelter to her sisters or will she return to London homeless?
Overall, I loved Highland Renegade for its plot setup, characters, mystery, romance and the silly quarrels between the MacGregors and the Sassenachs. It is a highly engrossing and captivating story. I loved the characters of Ian and Emily for their family values and responsibilities. The story being set over 200 years back, Emily being a woman earned my respect for her ardent will to support her family. Also, Ian greatly managed his responsibilities as a laird and understood Emily for her decisions.
But the only reason I am rating this book 3 stars is because when Emily falls down the stairs and hit her head hard enough to be almost out of sense, Ian takes advantage of the situation to kiss her, which is unlikely of the character he evolves into in the book and this was quite unsettling for me.
But I definitely am looking forward to reading more works of Cynthia Breeding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2020
Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, has received title to lands in the Highlands, MacGregor lands,and after surviving an abusive marriage, she’s determined to make a new start with her two younger sisters. She just has to win over the handsome Scottish laird whose family has lived there for centuries. When Ian MacGregor heard that the Sassenach countess was actually laying claim to his lands, he figured to scare the aging widow away by showing her the hardships of living in the Highlands. She’d leave before the first snowflake fell. But he never imagined that the widow was young and beautiful and more territorial than a she-wolf. No matter, he’ll prove that a fragile, London woman like her would never survive life in the Highlands.
This is the first in a new series & it certainly got off to an engaging, captivating start. I loved everything about it, strong characters, a romance to warm your heart & someone out to murder the interloper. I loved the MacGregor siblings & hope they all have their HEAs, each one was very different & unique in their own way. Emily was feisty, straight talking & had certainly done her homework so often blindsided Ian. The chemistry between the pair was there from their first meeting & only grew with time. A well written engrossing read that ticked all the boxes for me
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the first in a new series & it certainly got off to an engaging, captivating start. I loved everything about it, strong characters, a romance to warm your heart & someone out to murder the interloper. I loved the MacGregor siblings & hope they all have their HEAs, each one was very different & unique in their own way. Emily was feisty, straight talking & had certainly done her homework so often blindsided Ian. The chemistry between the pair was there from their first meeting & only grew with time. A well written engrossing read that ticked all the boxes for me
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 29, 2020
This was a very enjoyable story to read and it had my interest from start to end. If you like sexy Highlanders, mystery and romance, you'll enjoy this one as well:)
Emily and her two sisters arrive in Scotland to take over the lands she has received title to. They are certainly not well received by Ian MacGregor and his brothers who are in the process of having their clan name and lands reinstated!! There's also the fact that someone is trying to murder Emily and the search is on to find out who is the culprit! While not completely trusting anyone, Emily and Ian find themselves attracted to each other but all seems doomed when Ian knows he must choose his clan over his feelings for Emily.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Emily and her two sisters arrive in Scotland to take over the lands she has received title to. They are certainly not well received by Ian MacGregor and his brothers who are in the process of having their clan name and lands reinstated!! There's also the fact that someone is trying to murder Emily and the search is on to find out who is the culprit! While not completely trusting anyone, Emily and Ian find themselves attracted to each other but all seems doomed when Ian knows he must choose his clan over his feelings for Emily.
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 10, 2020
Rating: 🍷🍷/5
🥂
Pairs perfectly with Scotch, however, the booze is waaaaay better than this book
🥂
Worth the Hangover: Nope, not even a little
🥂
Tasting Notes:
Where to even begin? Highland Renegade is not a great book, it’s not even really a good book. This is the story of Emily Woodhaven, a young English widow who, because of her financial circumstance, is forced to move to the Scottish Highlands. Of course, she is not well received but she has nowhere else to go so she must stick it out in Scotland or return to London destitute. It should come as no surprise that she meets and falls in love with the laird of the land that she’s received from the crown.
All of this would be fine if there was more to the story, but that is literally it. In fact, I was 84% into the book when it was finally revealed that she had some sort of feelings for this man, Ian MacGregor, but that’s not even acted on until almost the end of the book--which is all fine except that nothing else even goes on in this book. I figured, well maybe what it lacks in substance it will make up for in romance...I was so wrong--this book lacked both.
I would not recommend this book to anyone. Good thing it was a quick read because if it wasn’t I wouldn’t have finished. So glad I got to read this for free and didn’t have to pay for it.
Advance Reader Copy provided by @netgalley in return for an honest review
🥂
Pairs perfectly with Scotch, however, the booze is waaaaay better than this book
🥂
Worth the Hangover: Nope, not even a little
🥂
Tasting Notes:
Where to even begin? Highland Renegade is not a great book, it’s not even really a good book. This is the story of Emily Woodhaven, a young English widow who, because of her financial circumstance, is forced to move to the Scottish Highlands. Of course, she is not well received but she has nowhere else to go so she must stick it out in Scotland or return to London destitute. It should come as no surprise that she meets and falls in love with the laird of the land that she’s received from the crown.
All of this would be fine if there was more to the story, but that is literally it. In fact, I was 84% into the book when it was finally revealed that she had some sort of feelings for this man, Ian MacGregor, but that’s not even acted on until almost the end of the book--which is all fine except that nothing else even goes on in this book. I figured, well maybe what it lacks in substance it will make up for in romance...I was so wrong--this book lacked both.
I would not recommend this book to anyone. Good thing it was a quick read because if it wasn’t I wouldn’t have finished. So glad I got to read this for free and didn’t have to pay for it.
Advance Reader Copy provided by @netgalley in return for an honest review
September 18, 2020
When Emily, the Countess of Woodhaven, arrives with two younger sisters in tow to take over the lands she received titles to, Ian MacGregor and his kin determine to convince the Countess to return to the niceties of London. Showing her the hardships of living in Scotland doesn’t deter Emily, a widow who wants nothing more than to start over after an abusive and difficult marriage.
Emily and Ian grow closer, but the MacGregor’s don’t take kindly to a Sessenach in charge. Ian fears he’ll have to choose between his clan and his heart, but when strange things start happening to Emily, her life takes a dangerous turn. Emily’s life is at stake, and Ian will do whatever it takes to protect her.
Highland Renegade is a wonderful historical romance filled with interesting characters and a well-paced story-line. Emily is strong-willed and determined, and I admire her bravery and willingness to sacrifice for those she loves. Her kindness and sincerity are obvious to everyone she encounters. I also like that she is intelligent and that she challenges the gender norms of the time.
Ian is fiercely protective and loyal, and he has a deep love for his people and lands. He feels torn between a sense of duty to his people and his feelings for Emily. His conflicting emotions prove to be an interesting dynamic throughout the story.
The romance between Emily and Ian is fantastic! Their relationship began under awkward circumstances and with reluctance. However, as Ian and Emily learn more about each other, the respect, admiration, and (of course) attraction they have for each other are evident. Neither are looking for a romantic entanglement, and their growing feelings prove complicated. However, Emily and Ian both have to decide if they are willing to risk their hearts and futures for love.
A great story with well-developed characters, a chemistry-laden romance, and an intriguing mystery, Highland Renegade is the perfect story for lovers of historical romance. Thanks so much to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Emily and Ian grow closer, but the MacGregor’s don’t take kindly to a Sessenach in charge. Ian fears he’ll have to choose between his clan and his heart, but when strange things start happening to Emily, her life takes a dangerous turn. Emily’s life is at stake, and Ian will do whatever it takes to protect her.
Highland Renegade is a wonderful historical romance filled with interesting characters and a well-paced story-line. Emily is strong-willed and determined, and I admire her bravery and willingness to sacrifice for those she loves. Her kindness and sincerity are obvious to everyone she encounters. I also like that she is intelligent and that she challenges the gender norms of the time.
Ian is fiercely protective and loyal, and he has a deep love for his people and lands. He feels torn between a sense of duty to his people and his feelings for Emily. His conflicting emotions prove to be an interesting dynamic throughout the story.
The romance between Emily and Ian is fantastic! Their relationship began under awkward circumstances and with reluctance. However, as Ian and Emily learn more about each other, the respect, admiration, and (of course) attraction they have for each other are evident. Neither are looking for a romantic entanglement, and their growing feelings prove complicated. However, Emily and Ian both have to decide if they are willing to risk their hearts and futures for love.
A great story with well-developed characters, a chemistry-laden romance, and an intriguing mystery, Highland Renegade is the perfect story for lovers of historical romance. Thanks so much to Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2020
Emily, Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, survived marriage to her abusive husband to be left with nothing when he died. She was given some land in the Highlands and since she and her sisters had nowhere else to go, they decided to move to the Highlands. The land had belonged to the MacGregor clan and they were trying to petition the king to have it returned. Laird Ian MacGregor was not expecting the countess to move to the Highlands or be so young. His plan was to show her how rough life in the Highlands was so she would return to London, but Emily was stronger willed than he thought. When Emily’s life is in danger, Ian must face that he has fallen for Emily and he needed to keep her safe. Highland Renegade is the first book in the new Children of the Mist series. It was full of intrigue, mystery, humor, and Highlanders. It was well written, fast-paced, and a great way to start the series. The characters were interesting, and the future books should be just as exciting if these characters are in them.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 3, 2020
Highland Renegade by Cynthia Breeding is the First book in the Children of the Mist Series. This is the story of Lair Ian MacGregor and Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven. Emily is a strong women who has survived a lot including a very abusive marriage that has left her wanting to never marry again. Emily has acquired lands and is head there to claim them but first she must overcome the Lair. So Emily and her siblings head off to Scotland to do just that. Ian and his clan members are no fans of the English so Ian sets in motion a way to get the English women to leave but treating her to the very hardships of their lives. But what he doesn't know is how strong a women she is and how much he would be drawn to her. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for more from this series and this author.
September 22, 2020
This was a fun light hearted read. Plenty of great banter, some heat and a dash of action. The fantastic group of supporting characters made this an enjoyable story. Emily & Ian definitely don’t get off in the right foot and I was happy to see them get their HEA.
I received an arc of this book.
I received an arc of this book.
October 15, 2020
Highland Renegade is sensual, romantic story steeped in Scottish history. An interesting plot situation creates natural conflict. The author clearly did a great deal historical research about the conflict between England and Scotland in 1774, nearly 30 years after the Jacobite Rebellion. It is the first book in a new series, Children of the Mist.
Emily, Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, was a young widow that married to provide for her two younger sisters. After paying off her husband’s debts she received title to a castle and lands in the Scottish Highlands and set off to form a new life. Upon arrival she encountered the large MacGregor clan who had lost rights through English politics and were struggling to re-establish their clan and lands. Emily was determined to live amicably with the clan (she and her sisters had no where else to go), but the MacGregors, led by Ian, were suspicious and hostile.
I enjoyed both the hero and heroine. The conflict was genuine and there was a mystery about someone trying to kill Emily. The secondary characters were less satisfying. Ian had so many brothers it was difficult keep them and straight, especially in conversations. Emily’s sisters were somewhat annoying, but they will probably improve in subsequent books in the series. The overall pacing was slow and contained some unnecessary information and descriptions, however, Highland Renegade was a pleasant read and I enjoyed the historical detail.
ARC provided by the publisher.
Emily, Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, was a young widow that married to provide for her two younger sisters. After paying off her husband’s debts she received title to a castle and lands in the Scottish Highlands and set off to form a new life. Upon arrival she encountered the large MacGregor clan who had lost rights through English politics and were struggling to re-establish their clan and lands. Emily was determined to live amicably with the clan (she and her sisters had no where else to go), but the MacGregors, led by Ian, were suspicious and hostile.
I enjoyed both the hero and heroine. The conflict was genuine and there was a mystery about someone trying to kill Emily. The secondary characters were less satisfying. Ian had so many brothers it was difficult keep them and straight, especially in conversations. Emily’s sisters were somewhat annoying, but they will probably improve in subsequent books in the series. The overall pacing was slow and contained some unnecessary information and descriptions, however, Highland Renegade was a pleasant read and I enjoyed the historical detail.
ARC provided by the publisher.
December 21, 2020
Every now and then it is nice to enjoy a lovely historical fiction novel filled with suspense and a bit of sass. When The Dowager Countess of Woodhaven (Emily) shows up to claim her title and home, there are plenty of people who notice and don't like that an English lady is taking over their Scottish Highlands. There are sparks between Emily and Ian McGregor, the head of his family and protector over the people and the land. A very enjoyable read that I did not want to put down and did not want to see come to an end. This is Book One of the new Children of the Mist series so that means more stories to come!!!!
Definitely recommend for historical fiction fans, for those who like sass and fire in their enemies to lovers romances!!! Will definitely be reading more from Cynthia Breeding!!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Cynthia Breeding, and Entangled Publishing LLC for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my review is voluntary and my opinion is my own.
#HighlandRenegade #NetGalley #DebutAuthor
Definitely recommend for historical fiction fans, for those who like sass and fire in their enemies to lovers romances!!! Will definitely be reading more from Cynthia Breeding!!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Cynthia Breeding, and Entangled Publishing LLC for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my review is voluntary and my opinion is my own.
#HighlandRenegade #NetGalley #DebutAuthor
September 21, 2020
This was a fabulous quick, suspenseful, angsty romance set in the Scottish Highlands. I do love a historical romance and if you've read a few of my last reviews I was highly disappointed in my last one because I felt it was too over the top on behavior. This one however was more to my liking. It was very specific in the decorum and etiquette of the time period. Even the lack of faith the men had in the heroine's business dealings and accuem was true to form.
We get two people who are fighting for their families survival and have competing agendas. Ian is working on political survival of his family and hoping to get their name restored in England so they don't have to disappear "into the mist" again. Emily on the other hand just needs to provide for herself and her two sisters. Emily is super down to earth and somehow still fits in a lady of the times mold. She dresses appropriately, even if a season out of fashion, acts accordingly, and is super aware of how her actions reflect on the others around her. She is stubborn and willing to fight for what she wants and needs, but is also aware that men are used to controlling the situation. She handily inserts herself into Ian's family business in a way everyone, except one, accepts that she has a knack for business and good decision making skills.
Ian on the other hand is the social butterfly and constantly running around trying to smooth things over where Emily and her sisters are concerned. Don't get me wrong he acts a man of the time, but his duties as the head of household seem to be more important than the day to day issues of the estate. He is constantly working on getting his uncles, brothers, and tenants to not uprise against the English lady and her sisters. He's trying to keep quiet that fact that she really owns them and could evict them at anytime. This is rather hilarious since everyone knows how fickle the King of England can be and the family finds out anyway. Once the anger has died down, it's all about getting things prepared for the winter and saving Emily from a killer they don't know.
Turns out the castle may be haunted, but no one wants to say it's really those hidden passages they use to escape troops and other clans from, that is really causing the problems in the house. Emily takes everything like a champ and believes she can just outlast the killer by making the family love her. In part it is true, but in whole it goes back farther than Emily...she just doesn't realize it.
After much ado about kissing, a setup, a stint getting sucked into the peat bog, they set the killer up and make a Happily Ever After for us. Emily and Ian finally give in to the fact they need and want each other and that even at their age, they can find love and it's alright to go against family traditions.
As you can see I enjoyed this story with the witt of Emily and the brute strength of Ian. Just as I like my historicals. I'm only giving this one a 4 of 5 because there just wasn't something that really stood out for me except the Scotch and I'm not sure that is enough to carry a 5 rating. Does that mean I don't recommend this book?...No I'd recommend this one if you want a fun easy read that leaves you happy and satisfied in the end. I know the rest of the series is going to be about some of the rougher brothers and/or Emily's sisters so I can't wait to read those as they come out. Please give it a read and let me know what you thought.
We get two people who are fighting for their families survival and have competing agendas. Ian is working on political survival of his family and hoping to get their name restored in England so they don't have to disappear "into the mist" again. Emily on the other hand just needs to provide for herself and her two sisters. Emily is super down to earth and somehow still fits in a lady of the times mold. She dresses appropriately, even if a season out of fashion, acts accordingly, and is super aware of how her actions reflect on the others around her. She is stubborn and willing to fight for what she wants and needs, but is also aware that men are used to controlling the situation. She handily inserts herself into Ian's family business in a way everyone, except one, accepts that she has a knack for business and good decision making skills.
Ian on the other hand is the social butterfly and constantly running around trying to smooth things over where Emily and her sisters are concerned. Don't get me wrong he acts a man of the time, but his duties as the head of household seem to be more important than the day to day issues of the estate. He is constantly working on getting his uncles, brothers, and tenants to not uprise against the English lady and her sisters. He's trying to keep quiet that fact that she really owns them and could evict them at anytime. This is rather hilarious since everyone knows how fickle the King of England can be and the family finds out anyway. Once the anger has died down, it's all about getting things prepared for the winter and saving Emily from a killer they don't know.
Turns out the castle may be haunted, but no one wants to say it's really those hidden passages they use to escape troops and other clans from, that is really causing the problems in the house. Emily takes everything like a champ and believes she can just outlast the killer by making the family love her. In part it is true, but in whole it goes back farther than Emily...she just doesn't realize it.
After much ado about kissing, a setup, a stint getting sucked into the peat bog, they set the killer up and make a Happily Ever After for us. Emily and Ian finally give in to the fact they need and want each other and that even at their age, they can find love and it's alright to go against family traditions.
As you can see I enjoyed this story with the witt of Emily and the brute strength of Ian. Just as I like my historicals. I'm only giving this one a 4 of 5 because there just wasn't something that really stood out for me except the Scotch and I'm not sure that is enough to carry a 5 rating. Does that mean I don't recommend this book?...No I'd recommend this one if you want a fun easy read that leaves you happy and satisfied in the end. I know the rest of the series is going to be about some of the rougher brothers and/or Emily's sisters so I can't wait to read those as they come out. Please give it a read and let me know what you thought.
November 8, 2020
Highland Renegade is a historical romance (and a novel in the series Children of the Mist) by author Cynthia Breeding. It’s set in Scotland in the year 1774.
I found this novel to be both professionally written and entertaining. Its characters are distinct in their personalities and very well done. While I don’t do spoilers, I can give you the setup of the beginning and tell you what I found so entertaining.
Emily Caldwell’s father and mother died, leaving her nothing but debts and two sisters. The elderly Lord Woodhaven (Albert) offered for her hand in marriage and would allow her to bring her sisters. He was aged and not a particularly a good man. In fact, he was a drug addict and womanizer as well as a man who hit his wife often. Her husband died and left her only debts, which she had to sell her only house to pay. His cousin who inherited his title and entailed property will not let the ladies live with him and his wife (all three are young and lovely). However, King George had been a friend of her father’s and gave her ownership and title to a property in Scotland that her husband had leased.
In July 1774, Emily (Dowager Lady Woodhaven) is taking her sisters to Scotland to live. It was formerly the property of the MacGregor clan, but due to political issues they were not allowed to own property anymore. Although those who did not take up arms in last issue were allowed to live there. She had been running her husband’s estate and businesses, because he wouldn’t be bothered, and had become quite good at managing and improving property. She’d studied the reports of the Scotland property and had many questions and plans to improve it so they could earn a living there. However, she fully intended to cooperate with those already there.
Ian MacGregor and his brothers and uncles currently lived in Strae Castle, taking care of the clan and managing the property and distillery. Because the late Lord Woodhaven was in his mid-sixties, they assume the lady coming to see the property is aged. They intend to show her they are managing the property well, make her a bit uncomfortable in hopes she’ll quickly return to London and leave them to their business. Ian had filed reports with the late Lord Woodhaven that undervalued the property a bit, while the true profits were used to improve the property and take care of the clan. They were quite surprised to see three beautiful and young women arrive with five wagons of their things.
That is the considerably basic setup. There is much more detail that I will leave you to discover for yourself. Let me give you the reasons I found this story so very entertaining and why I am looking forward to more from this talented author.
I loved the characters. They are very well described, and each has a unique personality. The conversations are realistic, and the various personalities often clash with interesting results. The romance is at first slow to build, but the interest is immediate. I loved that. The plot is well done with lots of twists and intrigue. I found the pace to be perfect, allowing for the characters to grow to know each other and fast enough to make it a page turner. If you haven’t read this series, I urge you to give it a try. My regards to author Cynthia Breeding, thank you for a thrilling and heartfelt novel. I look forward to much more from your talented imagination.
I found this novel to be both professionally written and entertaining. Its characters are distinct in their personalities and very well done. While I don’t do spoilers, I can give you the setup of the beginning and tell you what I found so entertaining.
Emily Caldwell’s father and mother died, leaving her nothing but debts and two sisters. The elderly Lord Woodhaven (Albert) offered for her hand in marriage and would allow her to bring her sisters. He was aged and not a particularly a good man. In fact, he was a drug addict and womanizer as well as a man who hit his wife often. Her husband died and left her only debts, which she had to sell her only house to pay. His cousin who inherited his title and entailed property will not let the ladies live with him and his wife (all three are young and lovely). However, King George had been a friend of her father’s and gave her ownership and title to a property in Scotland that her husband had leased.
In July 1774, Emily (Dowager Lady Woodhaven) is taking her sisters to Scotland to live. It was formerly the property of the MacGregor clan, but due to political issues they were not allowed to own property anymore. Although those who did not take up arms in last issue were allowed to live there. She had been running her husband’s estate and businesses, because he wouldn’t be bothered, and had become quite good at managing and improving property. She’d studied the reports of the Scotland property and had many questions and plans to improve it so they could earn a living there. However, she fully intended to cooperate with those already there.
Ian MacGregor and his brothers and uncles currently lived in Strae Castle, taking care of the clan and managing the property and distillery. Because the late Lord Woodhaven was in his mid-sixties, they assume the lady coming to see the property is aged. They intend to show her they are managing the property well, make her a bit uncomfortable in hopes she’ll quickly return to London and leave them to their business. Ian had filed reports with the late Lord Woodhaven that undervalued the property a bit, while the true profits were used to improve the property and take care of the clan. They were quite surprised to see three beautiful and young women arrive with five wagons of their things.
That is the considerably basic setup. There is much more detail that I will leave you to discover for yourself. Let me give you the reasons I found this story so very entertaining and why I am looking forward to more from this talented author.
I loved the characters. They are very well described, and each has a unique personality. The conversations are realistic, and the various personalities often clash with interesting results. The romance is at first slow to build, but the interest is immediate. I loved that. The plot is well done with lots of twists and intrigue. I found the pace to be perfect, allowing for the characters to grow to know each other and fast enough to make it a page turner. If you haven’t read this series, I urge you to give it a try. My regards to author Cynthia Breeding, thank you for a thrilling and heartfelt novel. I look forward to much more from your talented imagination.
May 31, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
After marrying young following the deaths of her parents, and suffering in her marriage, Lady Emily Caldwell, Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, finally has found her feet again. Left basically penniless because of her dissolute husband, she and her younger sisters have been given a life line, when the king grants her the estate of the proscribed MacGregor clan, Castle Strae. However, when she and sisters, Juliana and Lorelei, arrive at the estate, it's clear that the MacGregor family, and especially their laird, Ian, were not expecting a young widow, nor two younger sisters, and 5 carriages full of belongings. The MacGregors are a proud clan, and though proscribed, they are hoping the former Prime Minister, Lord Bute, will be able to petition the king for them to have their rights restored. Having a group of Sassenach women come to their land, their home, claiming to own it all, and want to be involved, is hard for them, but Ian is finding it doubly difficult, with how attracted he is to Emily. And Emily is facing the same struggle too, but also her marriage has made her want to ensure she never comes under a man's 'protection' again. But when it seems Emily is at risk, and someone is actively trying to kill her, will she relent, and allow Ian to keep her safe?
I've had this book on my NG shelf for a while, and kept forgetting about it, until I was approved for book 2, and decided to spend the bank holiday weekend reading them back to back. I really enjoyed it too. Both of the main characters, Emily and Ian, had their backstories so well thought out, and reading their chapters was fantastic. Neither of them were expecting the other when they arrived, nor were they expecting the attraction between them either. I loved how both of the characters, strong willed in their own right, never gave up too much of themselves for the other, but still grew and developed, in a positive way. The dynamic of the clan, and the three Sassenach women who descend on them, was a joy to read, and seeing the banter between them all - but especially Juliana and Rory (who will be the protagonists of book 2) - and the sense of found family that grew as the book progressed, made the book wholly enjoyable.
The added sense of mystery and danger surrounding the death of Ian's stepmother all those years ago, the capture of Devon by the dragoons, and who was out to get Emily, kept us on our toes, and I honestly hadn't guessed at who the culprit was. It was woven so exquisitely into the fabric of the main plot, the recovery of MacGregor name and land, that it just improved the entire story no end. I'm so glad I've read this book now, and can't wait to read Highland Hero asap!
After marrying young following the deaths of her parents, and suffering in her marriage, Lady Emily Caldwell, Dowager Countess of Woodhaven, finally has found her feet again. Left basically penniless because of her dissolute husband, she and her younger sisters have been given a life line, when the king grants her the estate of the proscribed MacGregor clan, Castle Strae. However, when she and sisters, Juliana and Lorelei, arrive at the estate, it's clear that the MacGregor family, and especially their laird, Ian, were not expecting a young widow, nor two younger sisters, and 5 carriages full of belongings. The MacGregors are a proud clan, and though proscribed, they are hoping the former Prime Minister, Lord Bute, will be able to petition the king for them to have their rights restored. Having a group of Sassenach women come to their land, their home, claiming to own it all, and want to be involved, is hard for them, but Ian is finding it doubly difficult, with how attracted he is to Emily. And Emily is facing the same struggle too, but also her marriage has made her want to ensure she never comes under a man's 'protection' again. But when it seems Emily is at risk, and someone is actively trying to kill her, will she relent, and allow Ian to keep her safe?
I've had this book on my NG shelf for a while, and kept forgetting about it, until I was approved for book 2, and decided to spend the bank holiday weekend reading them back to back. I really enjoyed it too. Both of the main characters, Emily and Ian, had their backstories so well thought out, and reading their chapters was fantastic. Neither of them were expecting the other when they arrived, nor were they expecting the attraction between them either. I loved how both of the characters, strong willed in their own right, never gave up too much of themselves for the other, but still grew and developed, in a positive way. The dynamic of the clan, and the three Sassenach women who descend on them, was a joy to read, and seeing the banter between them all - but especially Juliana and Rory (who will be the protagonists of book 2) - and the sense of found family that grew as the book progressed, made the book wholly enjoyable.
The added sense of mystery and danger surrounding the death of Ian's stepmother all those years ago, the capture of Devon by the dragoons, and who was out to get Emily, kept us on our toes, and I honestly hadn't guessed at who the culprit was. It was woven so exquisitely into the fabric of the main plot, the recovery of MacGregor name and land, that it just improved the entire story no end. I'm so glad I've read this book now, and can't wait to read Highland Hero asap!
October 5, 2020
Firstly, can we just take a moment have a little swoon over the cover?
My goodness, isn’t it amazing? It’s super pretty and with the burst of purple, it very striking, I love it!
This is not only a brilliant introduction to a new-to-me author’s work, but also a fabulous start to what I’m sure is going to an exciting, intriguing and very sexy series, I’m looking forward to what’s to come next, reading this you get glimpses of up what I hope are up and coming stories.
I really liked the relationship between determined Emily and proud Ian, they don’t exactly see eye, to eye to begin with, but you instantly see that there is a crackling chemistry between them, but as Emily was in an abusive marriage before she has definitely put up her guard towards other sex.
Emily is a tough cookie, she is strong-willed, inspiring and brave, she has a fragility that has come from what she had to endure and it takes time for her to trust she has spades of courage that has made her determined to live her best life alone without a man in it…that is until the oh, so handsome Ian comes stomping into her life….Oh, good golly I don’t think I can take all those swoon-some brooding glares.
When Ian finds out that his ancestral lands are to be claimed by a no-good Sassenach, he is fuming and decided to show her exactly what the highlands are made of and scare the young widow off back to London with her tail between her legs. Yet, the plan doesn’t exactly go as expected because she isn’t afraid of his glowers and sterns looks as others are and soon those glares and brooding silences turn to lust and want. He is confused by his feelings for her and even more as those feelings are in stark contrast to his duty
Oh, poor Ian, what a complex loyal man you are!
Cynthia Breeding has a way of capturing the reader imagination with her airy and atmospheric words, romance and intrigue swirl around you like a magical mist luring in and making keep turning the pages. Plus let us not forget the beautiful, stunning and most mesmerizing setting, each scene is crisp in historical detail, I can see those swirling rolling glens and in my mind’s eye.
Highland Renegade has everything that a fan of a historical romance fan looks for in a book; wonderfully developed character’s, steamy and sizzling chemistry, beautiful scenery, intriguing plot with a hint of mystery, plus sexy, brooding, ravishing men in kilts…..oh, be still my Highlander loving beating heart!!
Overall, it’s a wonderful story, great escapism. If you love historical romance and too-hot-for-their-own-good, sexy highlanders then this is a must read!
My goodness, isn’t it amazing? It’s super pretty and with the burst of purple, it very striking, I love it!
This is not only a brilliant introduction to a new-to-me author’s work, but also a fabulous start to what I’m sure is going to an exciting, intriguing and very sexy series, I’m looking forward to what’s to come next, reading this you get glimpses of up what I hope are up and coming stories.
I really liked the relationship between determined Emily and proud Ian, they don’t exactly see eye, to eye to begin with, but you instantly see that there is a crackling chemistry between them, but as Emily was in an abusive marriage before she has definitely put up her guard towards other sex.
Emily is a tough cookie, she is strong-willed, inspiring and brave, she has a fragility that has come from what she had to endure and it takes time for her to trust she has spades of courage that has made her determined to live her best life alone without a man in it…that is until the oh, so handsome Ian comes stomping into her life….Oh, good golly I don’t think I can take all those swoon-some brooding glares.
When Ian finds out that his ancestral lands are to be claimed by a no-good Sassenach, he is fuming and decided to show her exactly what the highlands are made of and scare the young widow off back to London with her tail between her legs. Yet, the plan doesn’t exactly go as expected because she isn’t afraid of his glowers and sterns looks as others are and soon those glares and brooding silences turn to lust and want. He is confused by his feelings for her and even more as those feelings are in stark contrast to his duty
Oh, poor Ian, what a complex loyal man you are!
Cynthia Breeding has a way of capturing the reader imagination with her airy and atmospheric words, romance and intrigue swirl around you like a magical mist luring in and making keep turning the pages. Plus let us not forget the beautiful, stunning and most mesmerizing setting, each scene is crisp in historical detail, I can see those swirling rolling glens and in my mind’s eye.
Highland Renegade has everything that a fan of a historical romance fan looks for in a book; wonderfully developed character’s, steamy and sizzling chemistry, beautiful scenery, intriguing plot with a hint of mystery, plus sexy, brooding, ravishing men in kilts…..oh, be still my Highlander loving beating heart!!
Overall, it’s a wonderful story, great escapism. If you love historical romance and too-hot-for-their-own-good, sexy highlanders then this is a must read!
April 19, 2023
Book: Highland Renegade
By Cynthia Breeding
Series: Children of the Mist, Book #1
Publisher: Entangled
Book Length: 322
Release Date: April 20, 2023
Book Rating: 5/5 stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Stars
Scotland, 1774
This book centers on the heroine, Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven who comes from a very abusive first marriage. She now has inherited a title and lands in Scotland and feels this is her second chance at life with her two sisters. Now after her horrible experience with men she never wants to marry again! As she is determined to make this grand opportunity work for her and her siblings to stop but how wrong she is! As Ian MacGregor is not what she expected, a man who hates the English and feels his home is being stolen from him by the hated English! After all It hadn’t even been twenty years since the Battle of Culloden, especially when his lands and title it has been in the MacGregor family for generations! So he plans to make this old Sassenachs biddie regret attempting to take his home and making her visit as unpleasant as possible! Ian intends to send her home packing from the cold highlands that will freeze her old bones as quickly as possible without servants and all the niceties of London! Ian is very shocked she was a young, beautiful, widowed lass. Still his plans have not changed for him or his clan as he still planned to make her stay as difficult as possible!
Even as the attraction between Emily and Ian grew and he begins to see how his impression of her was so very wrong. Emily is a kind, intelligent, strong, woman who has survived many struggles in her young life. Yet his clan members still only see her as the enemy and want her gone. Yet soon Emily’s very life is in danger and Ian will do everything he can to save the woman who owns his heart.
So the woman Ian MacGregor planned to freeze out is warming his heart! Therefore, which will Ian choose, his clan or his heart? Read in this delicious story and find out. An absolutely fabulous start to a brilliant series that I highly recommend!
Children of the Mist Series
by Cynthia Breeding
Highland Renegade
Highland Hero
Highland Champion
Disclaimer: I received an advance reader���s copy from Entangled Publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
By Cynthia Breeding
Series: Children of the Mist, Book #1
Publisher: Entangled
Book Length: 322
Release Date: April 20, 2023
Book Rating: 5/5 stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Stars
Scotland, 1774
This book centers on the heroine, Emily, the Dowager Countess of Woodhaven who comes from a very abusive first marriage. She now has inherited a title and lands in Scotland and feels this is her second chance at life with her two sisters. Now after her horrible experience with men she never wants to marry again! As she is determined to make this grand opportunity work for her and her siblings to stop but how wrong she is! As Ian MacGregor is not what she expected, a man who hates the English and feels his home is being stolen from him by the hated English! After all It hadn’t even been twenty years since the Battle of Culloden, especially when his lands and title it has been in the MacGregor family for generations! So he plans to make this old Sassenachs biddie regret attempting to take his home and making her visit as unpleasant as possible! Ian intends to send her home packing from the cold highlands that will freeze her old bones as quickly as possible without servants and all the niceties of London! Ian is very shocked she was a young, beautiful, widowed lass. Still his plans have not changed for him or his clan as he still planned to make her stay as difficult as possible!
Even as the attraction between Emily and Ian grew and he begins to see how his impression of her was so very wrong. Emily is a kind, intelligent, strong, woman who has survived many struggles in her young life. Yet his clan members still only see her as the enemy and want her gone. Yet soon Emily’s very life is in danger and Ian will do everything he can to save the woman who owns his heart.
So the woman Ian MacGregor planned to freeze out is warming his heart! Therefore, which will Ian choose, his clan or his heart? Read in this delicious story and find out. An absolutely fabulous start to a brilliant series that I highly recommend!
Children of the Mist Series
by Cynthia Breeding
Highland Renegade
Highland Hero
Highland Champion
Disclaimer: I received an advance reader���s copy from Entangled Publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
September 24, 2020
Rating: 3.5 stars
Sacrifice and compromise is what made this gracious, but strong willed, lovely, determined leading lady stand out, my fellow romance book loving friends. It seemed Emily was always willing to see the world through other’s eyes and tried to juggle what would work out best for all parties, whenever possible. However, her biggest priority was seeing to the care and future of her younger siblings, the main reason she was the Dowager Countess of Windhaven to begin with, which in and of itself was more nightmare than marriage.
Ian, the hero, and his family seemed to play the role of mean girls at first. Except for his younger sister, they were slow to trust and care about finding any common ground. Ian was also slow to grow a backbone and take a stand against his uncles, even when he started to realize Emily was it for him.
This leading lady put up with a lot, folks, including numerous attempts on her life. It was her patience and strength that overall had me giving this book a thumbs up. She deserved a HEA, and I’m glad this English lass got the man she wanted, despite Ian’s knuckleheaded relatives.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Highland Renegade, Series: Children of the Mist (Book 1), Author: Cynthia Breeding, Pages: 400, stand-alone, HEA, clan leader hero, young guardian widow in need of funds, past spousal abuse references, get to know each other first, not steamy until near the end.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
Sacrifice and compromise is what made this gracious, but strong willed, lovely, determined leading lady stand out, my fellow romance book loving friends. It seemed Emily was always willing to see the world through other’s eyes and tried to juggle what would work out best for all parties, whenever possible. However, her biggest priority was seeing to the care and future of her younger siblings, the main reason she was the Dowager Countess of Windhaven to begin with, which in and of itself was more nightmare than marriage.
Ian, the hero, and his family seemed to play the role of mean girls at first. Except for his younger sister, they were slow to trust and care about finding any common ground. Ian was also slow to grow a backbone and take a stand against his uncles, even when he started to realize Emily was it for him.
This leading lady put up with a lot, folks, including numerous attempts on her life. It was her patience and strength that overall had me giving this book a thumbs up. She deserved a HEA, and I’m glad this English lass got the man she wanted, despite Ian’s knuckleheaded relatives.
Romance Safety Gang:
Title: Highland Renegade, Series: Children of the Mist (Book 1), Author: Cynthia Breeding, Pages: 400, stand-alone, HEA, clan leader hero, young guardian widow in need of funds, past spousal abuse references, get to know each other first, not steamy until near the end.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
September 16, 2020
This book is very hard to put down. It's so well-written and has so many interesting characters that you simply don't wish it to end. Such an interesting story, which is not a simple romance novel, but also has a hint of mystery, intrigue, and family drama set in the Highlands. In any case, I absolutely loved it!
The MacGregor clan wants to restore their name and reclaim their lands. So it comes as a shock when three English women show up out of the blue with the deed to their lands. Now they must tolerate these women and find a way to make them leave. Ian is in the middle of everything since he is the laird and he must ensure his clan's protection and well-being. The only problem is that Emily isn't someone he can resist. She isn't the usual English lady. She is capable, independent, and fiercely loyal. He is having a hard time keeping his clan first.
The real problem starts when someone tries to kill Emily. She had to leave England. Now, she is determined to make her home in the Highlands. However, it seems that the Scots are not ready to give her and her sisters a chance. They are prejudiced and to them, they will always be the outsiders. At least, one of the MacGregor brothers isn't that bad. Ian is trying everything he can to ensure her safety. Maybe that's why her feelings for him are changing. Will she ever be able to start a new life here or will she be forced to return to London once again?
Overall, an interesting historical fiction that kept me thoroughly entertained. I loved every character and the story is very well-written. I'd definitely recommend it to all historical fiction fans. This book is not to be missed. ;)
P.S. I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley.
The MacGregor clan wants to restore their name and reclaim their lands. So it comes as a shock when three English women show up out of the blue with the deed to their lands. Now they must tolerate these women and find a way to make them leave. Ian is in the middle of everything since he is the laird and he must ensure his clan's protection and well-being. The only problem is that Emily isn't someone he can resist. She isn't the usual English lady. She is capable, independent, and fiercely loyal. He is having a hard time keeping his clan first.
The real problem starts when someone tries to kill Emily. She had to leave England. Now, she is determined to make her home in the Highlands. However, it seems that the Scots are not ready to give her and her sisters a chance. They are prejudiced and to them, they will always be the outsiders. At least, one of the MacGregor brothers isn't that bad. Ian is trying everything he can to ensure her safety. Maybe that's why her feelings for him are changing. Will she ever be able to start a new life here or will she be forced to return to London once again?
Overall, an interesting historical fiction that kept me thoroughly entertained. I loved every character and the story is very well-written. I'd definitely recommend it to all historical fiction fans. This book is not to be missed. ;)
P.S. I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley.
September 24, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of this from the publisher via NetGalley and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
This is a wonderful story to just get lost in. To venture back in time when things were simpler but harsh at the same time. Dowager Countess Woodhaven travels to Scotland with her two younger sisters. Emily was given a Scottish castle and land by the King of England. She was forced to sell their London townhouse to pay off her late husband's debts. The newly minted Earl of Woodhaven (actually his wife) was not accepting of keeping the three women on. Emily was in her mid-twenties to her late husband who was in his 60's.
The Laird of Clan MacGregor, Ian, is given little warning that Emily is coming. Their name is not in good standing with the English and the MacGregors do not want them there. They plan to make their visit as unpleasant as possible so they will cut short their visit.
There is mystery and mayhem afoot in the castle and with the MacGregor's neighbors. Someone is trying to harm and/or kill Emily; but who?
I adored the secondary characters as much as the two leading ones. I look forward to read more of the Clan MacGregor.
The author did a fabulous job in writing the story. There was so much detail to help understand the turmoil of the times. Having a dual POV format also helped to making Emily and Ian more human.
This is a slightly sexy novel in the fact that the "bedroom" scene comes very late in the book. Also the author does not go into graphic detail so to offend many. If you want an absolutely clean novel, then you may not want to read or again it comes late in the book and not much to it so you could skip it. I would not recommend this to anyone under the age of 18 though.
This is a wonderful story to just get lost in. To venture back in time when things were simpler but harsh at the same time. Dowager Countess Woodhaven travels to Scotland with her two younger sisters. Emily was given a Scottish castle and land by the King of England. She was forced to sell their London townhouse to pay off her late husband's debts. The newly minted Earl of Woodhaven (actually his wife) was not accepting of keeping the three women on. Emily was in her mid-twenties to her late husband who was in his 60's.
The Laird of Clan MacGregor, Ian, is given little warning that Emily is coming. Their name is not in good standing with the English and the MacGregors do not want them there. They plan to make their visit as unpleasant as possible so they will cut short their visit.
There is mystery and mayhem afoot in the castle and with the MacGregor's neighbors. Someone is trying to harm and/or kill Emily; but who?
I adored the secondary characters as much as the two leading ones. I look forward to read more of the Clan MacGregor.
The author did a fabulous job in writing the story. There was so much detail to help understand the turmoil of the times. Having a dual POV format also helped to making Emily and Ian more human.
This is a slightly sexy novel in the fact that the "bedroom" scene comes very late in the book. Also the author does not go into graphic detail so to offend many. If you want an absolutely clean novel, then you may not want to read or again it comes late in the book and not much to it so you could skip it. I would not recommend this to anyone under the age of 18 though.
September 2, 2020
This was a 5 star read. This was a book, maybe part of a series, I don't know because I read it out of order, I don't care, it was so good.
A widow who has survived an abusive marriage, but is now penniless because her old husband smoked up enough opium to bankrupt them, has a property that was bestowed upon her father for services to the crown. So the widow has a place to take her young sisters to after her husband's death. They have to sell the London house to pay off her husband's debts and his heir refuses to house or feed them. So, she moves to Scotland to take possession of her castle. The hero has no idea that his castle and holdings have been gifted away. Three Royal leaders ago, their family was punished for siding with the losing side of an uprising and they have had to give up their name, but allowed to live in the castle. It is a hard blow to the Laird and clan that an English woman now owns their properties. And the Laird has been giving her a lower-than-honest accounting of what the property has been producing. Well, you will have to read the find out about the rest. I read this book until the wee hours of the morning. It was a mystery, a suspense, a romance and it was good. The story is continuous and makes sense. It has likeable characters that develop a relationship, and their ages are appropriate. The spelling and grammar have few errors. The title kinda matches up to the story, but the book all makes sense. It was like stepping into a movie. I heartily recommend with 5 stars.
A widow who has survived an abusive marriage, but is now penniless because her old husband smoked up enough opium to bankrupt them, has a property that was bestowed upon her father for services to the crown. So the widow has a place to take her young sisters to after her husband's death. They have to sell the London house to pay off her husband's debts and his heir refuses to house or feed them. So, she moves to Scotland to take possession of her castle. The hero has no idea that his castle and holdings have been gifted away. Three Royal leaders ago, their family was punished for siding with the losing side of an uprising and they have had to give up their name, but allowed to live in the castle. It is a hard blow to the Laird and clan that an English woman now owns their properties. And the Laird has been giving her a lower-than-honest accounting of what the property has been producing. Well, you will have to read the find out about the rest. I read this book until the wee hours of the morning. It was a mystery, a suspense, a romance and it was good. The story is continuous and makes sense. It has likeable characters that develop a relationship, and their ages are appropriate. The spelling and grammar have few errors. The title kinda matches up to the story, but the book all makes sense. It was like stepping into a movie. I heartily recommend with 5 stars.
September 8, 2020
𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒚 — Beautiful young widow and her two snarky sisters set off to Scotland but find themselves ostracized by a clan who hates Sassenachs.
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I love books about Scotland. The scenery, the clans/lairds, the descriptions... If a book is set in Scotland or has a Scottish character I definitely want to read it. So I was excited for this book but... couldn't get into it.
I think the author tried to do something ambitious by setting up so many characters. Emily and her two sisters (Juliana, who was so annoying, and Lorelai), Ian and his many siblings, uncles, the Campbell's... Unfortunately, the huge amounts of characters meant that I didn't feel particularly close to Emily or Ian. I don't think their relationship got enough time or pages to develop.
Dialogue between groups is also something difficult to do right, because it has to match wit and language to feel natural. There were several parts of dialogue that felt like long monologues to me.
I think the mystery element was so unnecessary. This could have been a great book about Scottish/English prejudices (which the book was ripe with!). The clan had a lot to be upset about, that is historically accurate... their land being given away by the King of England, who they don't recognize. I think Emily being forced to prove herself would have been sufficient. More personal conflict over "attempted murder".
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I love books about Scotland. The scenery, the clans/lairds, the descriptions... If a book is set in Scotland or has a Scottish character I definitely want to read it. So I was excited for this book but... couldn't get into it.
I think the author tried to do something ambitious by setting up so many characters. Emily and her two sisters (Juliana, who was so annoying, and Lorelai), Ian and his many siblings, uncles, the Campbell's... Unfortunately, the huge amounts of characters meant that I didn't feel particularly close to Emily or Ian. I don't think their relationship got enough time or pages to develop.
Dialogue between groups is also something difficult to do right, because it has to match wit and language to feel natural. There were several parts of dialogue that felt like long monologues to me.
I think the mystery element was so unnecessary. This could have been a great book about Scottish/English prejudices (which the book was ripe with!). The clan had a lot to be upset about, that is historically accurate... their land being given away by the King of England, who they don't recognize. I think Emily being forced to prove herself would have been sufficient. More personal conflict over "attempted murder".
September 17, 2020
I’d never heard of Cynthia Breeding before receiving an ARC of Highland Renegade but I’ll certainly be looking out for her books from now on. Set in Scotland in 1774, the story is planted firmly in a time and place where the English and the Scots were not on the best of terms and where the arrival of Emily, Countess Woodhaven and her two younger sisters was not welcomed.
Laird Ian MacGregor and his brothers are less than impressed to learn that Emily has been given their castle and lands by King George and it is fair to say that resentment is rife.
This book felt authentic to me. There is just enough highland brogue to keep you in the moment and just enough missish behaviour from Emily’s youngest sister Lorelei to remind readers of the family’s aristocratic upbringing. These three are most definitely fish out of water yet Emily’s no nonsense approach to dealing with Ian and his clan earned my respect. While Ian is clearly unsure how to cope with these three English ladies, he was also a character to like and respect. He obviously cares for his family and his clan and I liked the way he managed affairs. The romance that developed between Ian and Emily was also a nice touch, offering enough sexual tension to keep readers interested but with physical passion reigned back to a level appropriate to that era.
Overall I loved this story, not just for the romance or the setting but also for the strong family values that are evident throughout. Well that and Emily’s smart dialogue as she flummoxes Ian. Again and again I smiled and cheered for her.
Laird Ian MacGregor and his brothers are less than impressed to learn that Emily has been given their castle and lands by King George and it is fair to say that resentment is rife.
This book felt authentic to me. There is just enough highland brogue to keep you in the moment and just enough missish behaviour from Emily’s youngest sister Lorelei to remind readers of the family’s aristocratic upbringing. These three are most definitely fish out of water yet Emily’s no nonsense approach to dealing with Ian and his clan earned my respect. While Ian is clearly unsure how to cope with these three English ladies, he was also a character to like and respect. He obviously cares for his family and his clan and I liked the way he managed affairs. The romance that developed between Ian and Emily was also a nice touch, offering enough sexual tension to keep readers interested but with physical passion reigned back to a level appropriate to that era.
Overall I loved this story, not just for the romance or the setting but also for the strong family values that are evident throughout. Well that and Emily’s smart dialogue as she flummoxes Ian. Again and again I smiled and cheered for her.
July 20, 2022
I read this book for the first time in 2020 before it was released but never left a review. So I listened to the audiobook and found out that I remembered a lot more of it than I thought I did.
I really liked this historical romance a lot and if you like a murder plot, a very sweet romance, three young English ladies(Sassenachs) in distress, Highland clans in a restricted way after The Battle of Culloden and how to run a whiskey distillery in 1771 this is definitely a story for you.
I loved how Cynthia Breeding interwove history, a murder mystery and romance together but I felt like she wanted too much with this book at times and there was a lot of characters mixed together and I got a little confused with the names and who was who.
I found it very funny that Ian and his brothers thought that it would be an old sassenach dowager countess who would overtake their grounds and instead these three very young women turn up.
He doesn’t expect Emily to be very bright or inquisitive but nothing is what it seems and the more she asks questions the more dangerous her situation becomes.
I was very intrigued by the history that Cynthia Breeding writes about and that she mixes it together with some of the history of whiskey making. Scotland is very well known for their whiskey distilleries.
There is a lot of good things in this book and I can definitely recommend it.
I got this book from Entangled publishing and Netgalley and this is my honest opinion and my voluntary review.
I really liked this historical romance a lot and if you like a murder plot, a very sweet romance, three young English ladies(Sassenachs) in distress, Highland clans in a restricted way after The Battle of Culloden and how to run a whiskey distillery in 1771 this is definitely a story for you.
I loved how Cynthia Breeding interwove history, a murder mystery and romance together but I felt like she wanted too much with this book at times and there was a lot of characters mixed together and I got a little confused with the names and who was who.
I found it very funny that Ian and his brothers thought that it would be an old sassenach dowager countess who would overtake their grounds and instead these three very young women turn up.
He doesn’t expect Emily to be very bright or inquisitive but nothing is what it seems and the more she asks questions the more dangerous her situation becomes.
I was very intrigued by the history that Cynthia Breeding writes about and that she mixes it together with some of the history of whiskey making. Scotland is very well known for their whiskey distilleries.
There is a lot of good things in this book and I can definitely recommend it.
I got this book from Entangled publishing and Netgalley and this is my honest opinion and my voluntary review.
September 4, 2020
4/5 stars!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A very engaging read. I loved the mystery element in this book and how it is incorporated into the plot. The plot of this book delivered what I expected and the author did a great job in writing from the third person limited point of view for Emily and Ian, making me sympathize to both of their predicaments. The only thing I found lacking is the character depth for both main characters. I feel like I don't know them enough for me to root for anyone's success. Emily is a smart woman, until she's not. Sometimes her actions doesn't reflect on what we've known about her, and it's a little bit frustrating to read. I felt like the ending was rushed as well. Solving the mystery, getting back the lands, and proposal for marriage all happened in one chapter and I felt robbed of good resolutions from all those three. I wished the author separated the resolutions for the three situations I've mentioned and focused solely on individual matters, not the conveniently-everything-great-happened-for-a-short-period-of-time trend as the book approaches the end. Overall, this is definitely worth a read for me and despite my critique, the book still gave me what I wanted and expected from it. And I actually enjoyed reading this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A very engaging read. I loved the mystery element in this book and how it is incorporated into the plot. The plot of this book delivered what I expected and the author did a great job in writing from the third person limited point of view for Emily and Ian, making me sympathize to both of their predicaments. The only thing I found lacking is the character depth for both main characters. I feel like I don't know them enough for me to root for anyone's success. Emily is a smart woman, until she's not. Sometimes her actions doesn't reflect on what we've known about her, and it's a little bit frustrating to read. I felt like the ending was rushed as well. Solving the mystery, getting back the lands, and proposal for marriage all happened in one chapter and I felt robbed of good resolutions from all those three. I wished the author separated the resolutions for the three situations I've mentioned and focused solely on individual matters, not the conveniently-everything-great-happened-for-a-short-period-of-time trend as the book approaches the end. Overall, this is definitely worth a read for me and despite my critique, the book still gave me what I wanted and expected from it. And I actually enjoyed reading this one.
Read
October 5, 2020Emily and her sisters are starting over in the Highlands after her husband dies and she is given the title to the land. She hopes it will be a fresh start for them, but Ian MacGregor, who believes these are his and his family’s lands, has another idea. Will Emily be accepted or will the MacGregors drive her out? Or maybe something far more unexpected will happen.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the tension between Emily and her sisters and the MacGregor family. It’s that enemies-to-lovers feel and you’re just waiting for a crack in the hard exterior to break through. I found myself saying, “Come on!!” at the tension and conversations. Get together already!
I also really enjoyed reading about the historical background of the MacGregor lands and how far back some of the battles and distrust went. It’s amazing that deep-rooted anger can carry through centuries having a big impact on history.
If you’re looking for a book with strong-willed characters, some steam and history, Highland Renegades is a great fit!
Thank you to HFVBT, Cynthia Breeding and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. The review expresses my own personal opinion.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the tension between Emily and her sisters and the MacGregor family. It’s that enemies-to-lovers feel and you’re just waiting for a crack in the hard exterior to break through. I found myself saying, “Come on!!” at the tension and conversations. Get together already!
I also really enjoyed reading about the historical background of the MacGregor lands and how far back some of the battles and distrust went. It’s amazing that deep-rooted anger can carry through centuries having a big impact on history.
If you’re looking for a book with strong-willed characters, some steam and history, Highland Renegades is a great fit!
Thank you to HFVBT, Cynthia Breeding and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book. The review expresses my own personal opinion.
September 9, 2020
I've previously really enjoyed Cynthia Breeding's romances, but this one fell a little short for me. Sadly, I struggled to connect to either the hero or the heroine, partly because we got so little time with them! There's a huge cast of characters, so a lot of group dialogue, and a lot of action, so we rarely got to see the actual couple by themselves - they barely talked to one another except about specific events. Their thoughts were secondary to the plot in the narration, so I never really got a good picture of their feelings or saw them falling in love. Their chemistry seemed to just sort of happen off page - I didn't end up invested in them as a couple, which is the main thing you need in a romance!
I also found the phonetic Scottish accents rather cringeworthy, and noticed inaccuracies in the writing (several modern Americanisms as well as a couple of grammatical and historical inaccuracies.)
Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with this one; it was sweet, but not memorable. Two and a half stars.
I also found the phonetic Scottish accents rather cringeworthy, and noticed inaccuracies in the writing (several modern Americanisms as well as a couple of grammatical and historical inaccuracies.)
Unfortunately, I just didn't connect with this one; it was sweet, but not memorable. Two and a half stars.
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