Member Reviews
Better than I could've hoped for, a beautifully written and fun read. McCollum wrote wonderfully believable story with flawed but truly good heroes and heroines
I loved this series. I've been looking for a new Highlands romance series and this completely fits the bill. A great romance, fun characters and enough of a cast to ensure many more books!
This is book two in Highland Isles series, and not having read the first book I can safely say that regardless of the fact, I thought this story can stand on its own.
What I liked the best in this story were the main characters. I thought they were charming and intriguing. I also found it fast moving and filled with action and the mystery surrounding the heroine kept me glued to the story.
I actually liked their instant attraction and enjoyed their road to happily ever after.
This story is for all of you Outlander fans. It’ll fill in Droughtlander perfectly! It will have you sighing from page one.
Melanie for b2b
I really enjoyed Cullen and Madeleine's story!
I loved Madeleine and the fact that even thought she had lost her memory and had no idea who she was, she was still a very strong woman. Which was needed when she and everyone else found out who she really was.
I really liked Cullen too. He was a reluctant laird, but stepped up to the plate when he was named to the position.
I'm loving this series and can't wait to see what McCollum comes up with next!
We first met Cullen Duffie in The Beast of Aros Castle, book one in the Highlands Isle series. As much as I liked that book, I loved this one even more. Cullen was one of my favorite characters from book one. His and Rose's story was a great addition to this series. The characters were wonderfully developed throughout a marvelous storyline. I prefer a storyline that has intrigue, and danger, a setting in the Highlands just puts the "icing" on the tale. Cullen finds Rose half dead with a rope around her neck on the shores of his isle. Because of her neck injuries she is unable to talk plus her memory is very fuzzy. Rose and Cullen are attracted to each other from the start. How do they handle the obstacles in the path of their HEA? This is highly recommended reading, I absolutely loved it. Hopefully there will be more books in the series.
Cullen Duffie, the new MacDonald is determined to prove he’s not like his father and that his grandfather didn’t make a mistake in picking him over his uncles in being the next chief. He’s determined to protect his clan against the English that want to overrun them. One morning, after a terrible storm, he finds a woman has washed ashore. When she comes to, she has no memory of who she is and what she’s running from. Cullen must decide if she’s worth going against his clan to save her or if he should just give her up and turn her over.
This book captured me right from the beginning. The story really pulled me in. I loved both Cullen and “Rose”. I loved how Rose’s identity slowly unraveled but none of it mattered to Cullen. The interactions between him and his cousins, Errol and Broc where hilarious. They had me laughing out loud as I read them. I can’t wait to read more from this author. I highly recommend.
**I voluntarily read and reviewed this book
This was such an interesting book!! It had so many more elements then just a love story. The characters were complex and surprising. There were many moments that took me by surprise!!! It was fun to learn and wonder about Rose, who she was, where she was from, and why how she got here. Definitely a story not to miss!!!
Posted on goodreads, amazon, bn (under Lady C)
Isle of Islay, Highlands of Scotland
December 1522
I love stories that intrigue me to the point where I am looking up more information on the time period because it is so fascinating. This is that kind of book.
I came into this story without having read the first in the series. Needless to say, it’s now on my list. I had no problems reading it as a stand-alone.
THE ROGUE OF ISLAY ISLE is an all around great read. It has action, adventure, intrigue, danger and romance. It has it all. Great secondary characters. Loved Cullen’s mother. Strongly disliked his uncles. (and some others) All the characters are wonderfully written, the plot is captivating and the sparks really fly between Cullen and Rose Madeleine. There is definitely some chemistry there. I was totally engrossed by the end of the first chapter.
This is a new author for us and I have so say I really enjoyed our first read by them.
I loved both Cullen and Rose as he called her they were perfect together both fierce and both strong willed.This story was not to involved with all sorts of drama but was a sweet romance with a cast of character filled with humor.
I loved Rose from the beginning even suffering with amnesia I always thought she was strong willed ,confident,smart sweet and kind and definitely had a keen mind.
Cullen on the other hand fierce,loyal,kind,protective,and sexy as sin.His attraction toward Rose was apparent and the sparks where there between them whenever they we in the same room.One thing I loved the most about Cullen as he gave Rose his protection and his word to protect her without even knowing who and what she was.Although the entire clan went from a spy to Courtesan .
I enjoyed the story from beginning to end and would definitely read books by this author again.I love when you able to connect with the characters that you read about and I was able to do that with Rose and Cullen they we just so love-able you could not wish for a happy ending for them.
The story was filled with romance,hunky highlanders,deceit,lies,mystery,with an amazing cast of character that added humor into the mix causing you to smile and laugh more than once.We loved it as it was love at first sight for Cullen but he was tamed by a French lassie....Who met his match!
5 stars from us
http://angelswithattitudebookreviews-joelle.blogspot.com/2017/05/blog-tour-and-giveaway-for-rogue-of.html
Second volume in the Highland Isles series, The Rogue of Islay Isle presents Cullen, who became chief of his clan after his grandfather’s death, when he saves a young woman washed up on the beach after a storm; She wakes up totally amnesiac.
Cullen is a likeable hero carrying an heavy burden: his uncles are mad at him for becoming chief instead of one of them, and they waste no opportunity to remind him he must act for the good of the clan, that his father was far from perfect, and that he’s like him (reproach visibly unfounded). I found him extremely patient with them, I’d have told them to get lost really sooner. He’s very close to his cousins and his mother, and nice with everyone. He refuses to yield to the attraction he feels for the heroine as long as she has not recover her memories, and he’s ready to protect her even while not knowing who she is and how she arrived there.
In spite of memory loss and her wounds, Madeleine, nicknamed Rose for most of the novel, is a strong heroine who refuses to feel sorry for herself. When she begins to remember she’s afraid to bring troubles to the clan but she doesn’t hide, and when troubles arise she faces them smartly. However she has a nasty tendency to jump to conclusion concerning Cullen and several times he has to explain that her conclusions are not the reality.
The secondary characters don’t sit on the sidelines, and I especially liked the bond between the hero and his cousins. However the strangers are a bit of a caricature, French as English people are all self-serving, lecherous, and in general to avoid.
What’s more I found the story in its whole cute but with a little unrealistic side. Some discussions especially left me bewildered, I was thinking “did he really say that in front of everyone?”
All in all I had a pleasant reading time, and I’ll try this author again if I have the opportunity.
Loved this Highlander romance. This story is fast paced read with plenty of drama and suspense. Cullen finds a beautiful woman washed up on shore and due to her injuries, she can’t remember who she and can’t speak. The chemistry between Cullen and Rose is steamy and the story had me hooked from beginning to end. A great read!
This was an awesome Highlander romance that I had the pleasure of reading!Cullen is the new chief of Clan MacDonald, and he's working hard to be a good laird and protect his clan.But when a beautiful woman washes up on his shores, he decides to protect her , even though he doesn't know who she is.
When she wakes up, they find out that she has amnesia and can't remember who she is.So he calls her Rose.They grow closer over a period of time, as she heals from both physical and mental injuries.But, when her memories start slowly coming back,they might have to make a decision on what to do, as she might bring danger to his clan.The English and French are at war, and the precarious position that Rose/Madeleine is in might put everything that Cullen has worked hard to build into jeopardy!
But will they listen to their hearts or the danger that beats around them?
Both the main characters were well fleshed out and quite likable without being unbearable.Rose wasn't a damsel in distress despite her situation.I loved how strong she was, even after everything that she went through.Cullen was the perfect match for her, and the attraction between them was well done in a believable manner.Though this is book two in the series, it can be read as a standalone, and I read this one without reading the first.Now that I've finished reading The Rogue Of Islay Isle, my interest has been piqued!So, I'll definitely be reading The Beast Of Aros Castle next!
Cant wait to see where the author will take this series!
Book: The Rogue of Islay Isle
By Heather McCollum
Series: Highland Isles, Book #2
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook, Administrator at Tartan Book Reviews and Purple Tulip Book Reviews. Blogger at Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog
Heat Setting: Smoking Hot!
Overall Setting: 5 Stars/Kilts
ISLE OF ISLAY, HIGHLANDS OF SCOTLAND
DECEMBER, 1522
Cullen Duffie has recently been made Chief of the ferocious Clan MacDonald. His Grandfather recently died and made him Chief, skipping over his very own sons. Cullen was Tor’s friend in Book #1,The Beast of Aros Castle.
A woman named Madeleine Renald washes up on Islay Isle, but she cannot speak and has no memory, not even her own name! As MacDonald Chief, Cullen orders everyone to call her Rose. Since she had pretty roses embroidered on her gown. As Rose’s memory starts to return in little fragments, but soon pieced it all together and realises she has put The Clan MacDonald in great danger by just being here on Islay Isle!
When Rose is disgusted as she realizes how her very own mother abused and sold her to the highest bidder! That happens to be King Louis, King of France! This could put The MacDonald clan in a very bad predicament, as the English and French are foes at this time and could call The MacDonald clan traitor! They could exile them or possibly even have them executed! Now Cullen desires Rose like no other, he will not just hand her over to the evil Sassenach! Yet he does not want his clan in danger either. Plus he gave Rose his solemn oath he would protect her, plus he wants her like no other woman!
Yet all the mama’s on the isle want their daughter to marry the new Laird even by trickery.As healer Agnes’s daughter Beatrice, who keeps chasing Cullen as many females. They are hoping he will put a babe in their belly so they get a title and all the trimming that goes with being a Laird’s wife! It has nothing to do with feelings or love and everything to do with greed! This French lass impresses Cullen not just her beauty, but with her bravery and courage too! Rose finds Cullen pretty irresistible too, with his honor and honesty, which is so refreshing and the opposite of the men in French court.
Yet Rose/Madeleine is being hunted by those she ran away from, will she be caught? Will she vanish from Cullen's life forever? What is her future to be freedom in Scotland or slavery in France? You will have to read this spectacular read and find out!
Beautiful setting, amazing dialogue, and plots that have you holding your breath in anticipation, wondering what could possibly happen next? I absolutely loved
“The Rogue of Islay Isle book #2 in the Highland Isles series. I have read all the books in the series,they are all superbly written and just keep getting better if that is even possible!
This phenomenal riveting romantic adventure read is filled with treachery, jealousy, suspense, mystery, betrayal, mistrust, clan war, joy, faith, passion and love. All the things historical romance readers love!
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
1.The Beast of Aros Castle,Book #1
2.The Rogue of Islay Isle, Book #2, Just released on May 15th
The Rogue of Islay Isle: Heather McCollum: 9781545553466: Amazon ...
Cullen Duffie's life changes when his grandfather names him chief of clan MacDonald. He can no longer stick to his roguish ways. Now his clan will always take priority. He must be cautious in his actions, his two troublesome uncles are there to remind him this fact every day. He understands his responsibilities but sometimes listening to your heart is more important...
Rose, that's what Cullen called her when he found her washed up along the shore of Islay Isle. She was badly injured and unable to speak. Now, even though she has healed she still can't remember who she is or where she comes from. But one thing is quite obvious from her speech, she is French. Her presence can cause serious trouble for Cullen's clan and yet he refuses to leave her without protection. She might turn out to be a murderer, thief, or even a spy but for some reason Cullen refuses to acknowledge that. Rose needs his help so that's what he will do, help her.
It's an interesting story, which starts with intrigue and mystery, and continues to surprise until the very end. I loved all the characters, it's well-written, and very entertaining read. I'd recommend this book to all historical fiction fans.
This book had it all: Romance, Mystery, Suspense, Love & Passion! The characters have such substance and depth to them. They are immediately likeable and tug at your emotions. All of the lush details from scenery to the character's features and traits to the clothing descriptions are rich, vivid and easy to picture in the "mind's eye". The plot moves at a steady pace and keeps you captivated as the story goes. Also, this storyline was unique and fresh, not written in the usual, predictable historical romance "formula".
I am now most interested in going back to read The Beast of Aros Castle -- the first book in the Highland Isles series. And am eagerly looking forward to future stories in the Isles collection.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley & Entangled Publishing, LLC in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
when a mysterious woman washes up ashore the isle of islay, cullen duffie has a choice. he can choose to protect this stranger or he can turn her over to the english captains searching for any excuse to invade and conquer the macdonald holdings. he might be the titular the rogue of islay isle, but there is no way he would ever turn over a woman to the english without knowing her story.
the problem is that she doesn't remember her story. he calls her rose for the roses on her gown. and as she gets glimpses of her past through her fractured memories she knows that this is not her name. but being rose allows her to be more herself than she's ever been. she knows things that hint of a sordidness in her past. and this worries her. this worries the others in the macdonald clan who are not as accepting of her presence on islay.
cullen has this feeling about this woman, he knows he cannot let her go. in spite of her past, in spite of who she could be, in spite of the danger her being there brings to his clan he knows that she is his. just like he is hers. from the moment he meets her there is no one else and over and over again he proves this.
when the truth of rose is revealed he faces another choice, another test, will he put his clan first or rose? but there is no choice there. from the moment she landed on islay she became his, and nothing will keep them apart. not french kings or english captains. not disloyal clansmen.
Cullen Duffie has been named the new Chief of the MacDonald clan, but his two old uncles don't think he is up to the job. The young women are also giving him trouble by creeping into his bedroom so that they might be the next lady of the castle.
Rose was washed up on the shore with a rope around her neck. The damage it caused means she can't speak.
This is an intense and exciting story with marvellous characters. Our poor hero is trying to keep everyone happy and safe. Our brave heroine is struggling to cope.
There is danger all around and a complicated political minefield to navigate.
This is part of a series but easily read as a stand alone.
A fascinating read. I loved it.
The new chief of Clan MacDonald is Cullen Duffie, a charming rogue and Highland warrior who’s constantly being challenged by his two uncles. Cullen is determined to prove he’s not like his father and works to secure his Clan against the English. Cullen finds a woman washed up on his shores with a rope tied around her neck, she more dead than alive especially after living through the stormy seas. She is richly dressed, she’s not able to speak and doesn’t remember her name. Is she hiding a dark secret? Cullen calls her Rose and vows to protect her from whatever evil she escaped from on that ship. When Rose starts to speaking he realizes she’s French and her very presence could put the whole Clan in jeopardy. Gradually her memory returns and she remember her name and how she ended up on the ship. Those two pesky English Captains, Taylor and Thompson (from book 1) are always lurking around looking to see who is a traitor to the English and harboring a French woman in their Clan could definitely spell trouble for Clan MacDonald. Cullen and Rose’s story is filled sizzling passion, intrigue with twists and turns, and a lot of love in between!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book from Net Galley and the publisher.
I read an advanced early copy in exchange for an honest review. Cullen and Madeleine had such passion together. Cullen finds Madeleine washed in shore unable to speak and rope burns around her neck. She has no memory of who she is or why someone would try to hang her. When. she is first able to speak everyone is shocked when she is french. I felt the story the was a little slow paced for me but still enjoyed.