I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 in the Highland Isles series. In this one Mairi is about to get married when she is abducted for revenge on her future husband. I was glad to get Mairi’s story it was really well done. I am looking forward to more from the series.

There just are not enough words to describe how much I loved this book. It has all those things I enjoy in a good read...Scottish, great characters, a bunch of character danger, and of course a bit of intrigue and a good bit of romance. Mairi MacLean is about to marry Geoff MacInnes, as a means to keep peace between the two clans. Returning to the MacInnes clan comes with horrible memories of her first marriage to the old chief and his son and their mistreatment of her, but she wants to do her part. The Wolf of Kisimul, Alec MacNeil's wife was murdered by Mairi's husband. As a means for revenge, he steals Mairi before she marries Geoff. Although his intention is marriage, she is having no part of it. From there the action really picks up. Just how do these two find a common ground? How long can Mairi fight her attraction to Alec? Will she be able to help his children...does she ever get out of the dungeon? Or course there are villains, just who are they? This book is so fast paced and attention holding that I read it in one day. One of the added bonuses was the appearances of characters from the previous books in the series. Heather Macollum is quite the storyteller!

I loved this book!!! I am looking forward to reading about Keneth and Ian. Beautiful love story .

I really enjoyed this story! Whenever Mairi and Alec were together the chemistry between them was red hot, even when they hated each other! What started out as a story of revenge, turned into a fierce passion and a never ending love story.

I really loved watching Mairi interact with Alec's children. I think that it added another aspect to the story that made it that much more enjoyable. I'm really hoping that McCollum is continuing with this series, as I've really enjoyed it.

Wowzers!!!!! This was awesome, loved ever page, story twist and the characters were fantastic!

Well written Medieval Romance with plenty of action, romance and passion. The cast of characters are believable, engaging and interesting. This story grabbed me from the beginning to end, and pulled at my heart strings. Fast paced with twists and turns, danger, and finding a HEA. The plot was intriguing, and captivating. I enjoy Ms.McCollum's writing style, her eye for details, her historical reference and her characterizations. A must read!! Can be read as a stand alone. Heart pounding romance. Another hit by this author!


Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR

4.5 Stars

Mairi Maclean is kidnapped from her clan the day she’s to wed another by Alec, Chief of the Mac Neil clan of Barra Isle. He plans on stealing her off and make her his wife as revenge against Clan MacInnes, for the murder of his own wife. He’s surprised by Mairi demanding a kiss when he barges in to steal her away (there’s a story behind that). The prospect of marrying Mairi becomes sweeter after the passionate kiss they share, but her attitude towards Alec swiftly changes when she realizes he’s come to haul her off to his island. Mairi is outraged when he demands that she marry him or become his prisoner.

Kidnapping would hardly be the way to any woman’s heart, but I was relieved to discover Alec wouldn’t force Mairi to do anything against her will. And hey, this was the 1500’s, so I guess things were a little different back then. Marriages were often entered into as a political alliance, with or without the consent of the woman. But Mairi was no pushover. She dug her heels at the idea, but getting to know Alec softened her up; especially witnessing the love and care he had for his kids. Mairi can’t help the powerful attraction she feels for Alec regardless of how she ended up at Kisimul Castle.

I had an open mind about Alec, and he didn’t disappoint. I fell for hard for this soft-hearted warrior and I even liked him a little more than Mairi. Alec had a vulnerable side to him; worried that anyone he loved would leave or be taken from him. He had good reasons to worry. There was a fair bit of tension by the end, Alec’s wife’s murder isn’t all what it seemed, and the mystery behind it ended up bringing danger to the clan!

Heather McCollum brought Alec and Mairi to life, made me care about them. I felt their emotions: fear, uncertainty, passion, and love. I do love a good historical romance with a sexy highlander. They’re usually a lot of fun, but I was pleased that The Wolf of Kisimul Castle was more.

A copy was kindly provided by Entangled Publishing for an honest review.

This review is also posted at The Readers Den.

A must read book for historical romance lovers! Definitely a highland romance to remember! Revenge does not always go as planned even for the wolf. Mairi is not a shy maiden who will do as he bids. She is a strong character who stands her ground but will the wolf wear her down? What a ride to find out how their HEA will go. It held my attention from the beginning and threw many surprises at you. It made me laugh and cry- and had my thinking about it all day today! It has strong characters, deceit, passion, humor, kilts, and dogs- what's not to love?

Vengeance with a twist.

Scottish Highlands 1523.
Mairi Maclean knew that marriages were clan alliances, no matter that her first marriage went badly. Now widowed, she's again decided to marry for clan. Just before her wedding she learned that her fiancé intended to send a handsome friend to kiss her. If she enjoyed the kiss she might break off the wedding. Not that Mairi was going to do that! As she sad though, “Drunken plans should not be made the night before weddings!”
But did her fiancé have to send someone so handsome? When Mairi kissed the stranger she almost swooned. Still, the wedding would continue Mairi decided even as the stranger was leading her out ... and away, wait a minute, to where? Oops drunken plans certainly played into the hands of Alec MacNeil!
Mairi found herself captive to Alec, clan chief known as The Wolf of Kisimul Castle! Alec has decided to take vengeance against those who murdered his wife and Mairi was the widow of his enemy!
The pages devoted to Mairi being held captive are hilarious. I would give the book five stars just for those pages of mischief. The relationship with Alec's children, the transition unbeknownst to him of dank dungeon to something other, is brilliant. Mairi and the children become a formidable team that it takes Alec some time to become aware of.
I loved this story. Marie is a treat, feisty and full of life despite the shadow of fear that hung over her from her treatment at the hands of her former husband and his family.
Alec is a man of honor, trying to keep his clan and family together, and yet so young in understanding relationships, hampered as he is by his seemingly lacklustre upbringing. All the women in his life leave the castle in someway, and yet he remains to carry on a tradition.
Neither of them dreamed where things would lead.
This definitely is the highlight of the series, humorous and heartfelt.

A NetGalley ARC
(August 2017)

This book brought it! Mairi and Alec were like oil and water. But, the sparks between them were electric.

I LOVED Mairi's strength and fierce determination! I really like a story with a heroine that won't get cow-eyed or melt into jiggling jello at the first kiss. Mairi had spunk and spice and gave back as good as she got. She didn't back down and definitely tested Alec's patience at every turn. And, once he got over himself and his need for revenge, Alec was quite a likable, sigh-worthy character.

McCollum has outdone herself!

*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.

I really enjoyed this book! I liked both characters. Love the personalities, dialog, pace. It was an interesting and fun book! Great author!!

A definite buy book! From the start I was totally engrossed and loved the way the story began. It then tapers off a little then picks up with very unique actions that you never expect! It truly was a book that surprised me in many ways. There were a few obvious problems current versus historical and perhaps the way it was full speed ahead to rowing backwards in speed at times. Even with that, I absolutely loved the story and the unique feel to it. I would wish it had been longer to have more enjoyment. I liked the way the children became focal in the story also. So a great addition to the series and a definite good read. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

Alec MacNeil is bent on getting revenge and he has the perfect simple plan - kidnap his enemy’s bride on her wedding day and marry her himself. Unfortunately for him even the best laid plans backfire! Mairi Maclean is no wilting flower, life with her abusive husband has made her stronger. She definitely will not be anyone's carpet to be stepped on she challenges him, tempts him. She will not be a pawn to any mans plotting for revenge! Will definitely not marry some man just because he decreed it. Although she's a prisoner she's treated with respect and it's not long before the tables are turned and Alec finds that the fiery woman has captured his heart. The more they are together the stronger the flames of passion burn, and it's only a matter of time before the flames consume them!

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle is an awesome read the story just pulls you in and grabs you from the very first page. The heroine is smart sassy and defies Alec with attitude and spunk. Alec is torn between avenging his wife's death but at heart he's an honest and honorable man. The sparks fly and you can feel it is only a matter of time before they both succumb to it! A delicious romance that will definitely not disappoint.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and publisher through NetGalley for my honest unbiased opinion

This was one of a series of books, so the characters were aware of each other's backgrounds. Regardless, it could be read as a standalone, but why not read them all, as they are each delightful in the strength of character development. The heroine is clever, and confident despite being kidnapped, and, while trying to resist the kisses of the "Wolf", her kind heart leads her to help his children and to resolve a mystery, bringing our hero some peace and much needed acceptance. Some unexpected funny moments add humor to the plot, which enhanced the pleasure of a quick read.

Book: The Wolf of Kisimul Castle
By Heather McCollum

Series: Highland Isles, Book #3


Release Date: August 15, 2017


Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
1)Tartan Book Reviews
2)Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3)Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating: 🔥

Book Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Scottish Highlands, 1523
It was supposed to be Mairi Maclean’s wedding day. No, she did not love her betrothed Geoff, the new MacInnes chief, since her elderly husband Fergus MacInnes death. That marriage was forced by her father, now her brother Tor is chief. Tor explains, Mairi does not have to marry anyone except for love. She feels the ties with their clans would make them so much stronger. Mairi knew her insecure groom - was sending his most handsome warrior to kiss her as a test. If she really wanted to marry him she would still meet him down the aisle. So when the most strapping, handsome, warrior she ever met gave her the most passionate kiss of her life! What is she to do? Than she realizes a decision has been made for her. Her warrior escort is taking her in the opposite direction of the chapel!

The man Mairi mistakenly took as one of Geoff’s men is actually their enemy! It isLaird Alec MacNeil, known as the Wolf and Chieftain of Kisimul. A man who decided he was going to get his revenge. Even though Fergus is dead, but he killed his wife, so he will replace her with a new wife, Fergus’s wife. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a bride for a bride, all is fair in love and war! Plus Alex needs someone to mind his children besides his close warriors friends and dogs. It was a shame Fergus MacInnes was already dead or he would of run him through. It was only fair, yet Mairi is not the docile lamb he was expecting! Nor can she be forced to do anything against her feisty, independent, will! Alex thinks a week in his dark dungeon will change her mind. Mairi does take notice of her abductor, who is kind to dogs, extremely gentle and caring with her person.

Laird Alex takes her to his rundown empty cursed Kisimul Castle, the Castle everyone thinks is cursed and leaves. Everyone leaves except his children and a couple of his men. As many believe in the curse especially after his wife was murdered. His own mother deserted him as a teenager, thank God Millie cared for him.

When Mairi refuses his marriage offer he thinks a week in the dungeon will change her mind. He doesn't realize his own children betrayed him, giving her all the comforts of a Queen! Then the tides change as Mairi starts to feel things for this gentle giant. Also his motherless children, his young son gives his puppy so she won't feel alone. His daughter Mairi gives cooking tips and the young lass makes her flower crowns. So she can't help feel anything but love for the wolf’s young children . Even the puppy his son gave her she has grown to love.

Plus the location of Kisimul Castle is inescapable so what can Mairi possibly do. Yet her brother Tor is searching for . She has no doubts her family will discover her whereabouts sooner or later. Will she stay or leave like everyone else? Readers will have to read this dazzling, memorable, story that is absolutely breathtaking and unforgettable!

Again, Heather McCollum pens another remarkable riveting action packed novel, that readers won't be able to put down. This is the third book in her magnificent “Highland Isles” series. It has all the elements Scottish-historical-romance-reader’s love! It includes a swoon worthy hero, stubborn, independent and kind
beautiful heroine. If you're a dog lover like myself you will absolutely love this novel. Any mother will love Alec’s motherless children too. There are many facets and parts to this novel that had me totally captivated and mesmerized! It totally melted my heart!

This book brought so many emotions out of me from laughter to heart tugging moments as well. A beautiful superbly written novel that readers won't be able to forget. Definitely one for your keeper shelf to re-read. I found it a total delight! I highly recommend this as you can read as a stand alone or in series order. It is always such an enormous treat when I see a new “Heather McCollum” release.

Highland Isles by Heather McCollum
1)The Beast of Aros Castle
2)The Rogue of Islay Isle
3) The Wolf of Kisimul Castle - Releasing 8/15/2017

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.



Amazon Buy Links:

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle (Highland Isles) - Kindle ... - Amazon.com


https://www.amazon.com/Wolf-Kisimul-Castle-Highland-Isles-ebook/dp/B0746MLXR4?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I was hooked on this historical read from beginning to end. The story is fast paced with loads of suspense and drama. Mairi is kidnapped and Alec is set on revenge. The chemistry between Mairi and Alex is great and the cast of characters is great. I loved it!

I'm so enjoying Heather McCollum's Highland Isles series, and this is yet another fantastically written, adventure laden story that grips from the beginning and won't let you go until the end.

This time we see Mairi MacLean, Tor from the first book's sister and Alec MacNeil and follow them on their journey of ups and downs

I received an advanced copy from Netgalley and I voluntarily leave my own opinion

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle, by Heather McCollum is a captivating historical highlander romance.

Alec MacNeil is also known as the Wolf of Kisimul Castle, and he's ready to take revenge against those who murdered his wife, so he secretly kidnaps his enemy's bride on her wedding day.

Even though Mairi Maclean is preparing for her wedding, she's not in love with her groom. However, she never expected to be kidnapped, especially by a man with two adorable children - one of my favorite aspects of the book!

As the story unfolds, Alec and Mairi are forced to deal with plenty of secrets and ensuring dramatic events. However, Mairi is still considered Alec's prisoner, until she agrees to marry him. Even though it's the third book in the Highland Isles series, it's not necessary to read the books in order.

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle is geared towards those who enjoy reading highly entertaining historical romances, particularly stories involving highlanders.


Note: I received this book from NetGalley, which is a program designed for bloggers to write book reviews in exchange for books, yet the opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Alec MacNeil has a simple plan for revenge: kidnap his enemy’s bride on her wedding day and marry her himself. But Mairi Maclean is no wilting flower. She challenges him, tempts him, and isn’t about to give in and marry some man just because he says so. But even though she’s his captive, it’s not long before Mairi is breathing new life into Alec’s home. And the longer the two of them are around one another, the more difficult it becomes for them to resist their mutual attraction…

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle is one of the most fun books I’ve read in a long time. I can’t count the number of times Mairi and Alec made me grin and Heather McCollum’s writing just plain charmed the heck out of me.

Mairi is a strong, resourceful woman who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. When taken captive she doesn’t faint with fright, but defies Alec and makes herself comfortable in his dungeon. I loved Mairi’s cleverness, attitude, and warm heart. Kisimul Castle is a dark and depressing place when she arrives and she – along with Alec’s adorable children – turn it into a home. As for Alec, though he’s determined to avenge his wife’s murder, he’s no monster. He’s a kind and loving father and a leader who wants to do what’s best for his people. I adored both Alec and Mairi, which made it easy to become invested in their love story. Their romance is lively and fun; every part of it crackles with energy. The sparks that fly from their first meeting keep flying all through the book which made this a wonderfully satisfying romance.

Some books just make you happy when you read them, and that’s definitely the case for me with The Wolf of Kisimul Castle. This is the first book of Ms. McCollum’s that I’ve read and her style reminded me of vintage Julie Garwood. I couldn’t have been more entertained by Mairi and Alec’s story and I cannot wait to go back and read Ms. McCollum’s first two Highland Isles tales!

I jumped into The Wolf of Kisimul Castle without having read the first two books in the Highland Isles series with no problems at all. The story for Alec and Mairi stands completely on it's own. Although the plot is simple and straight forward, I still enjoyed seeing the story unfold. There is a good balance between the inevitable romance between Mairi and Alec and the trouble that led Alec to kidnap her and the fall out and action that takes place afterward. McCollum provides enough tension between Mairi and Alec to help make their burgeoning relationship interesting, but without making their actions and decisions unbelievable or unrelatable.

Mairi isn't stubborn to the point that she is reckless, and Alec isn't overbearing to the point that he is a jerk and unlikable, which is a bonus when it comes to historical romance. It is nice that Mairi isn't an overly innocent virginal heroine trying to escape a horrible situation. Instead, she is a widow, who is doing what she initially feels is best for her family, even if it's not an exciting prospect for her personally.

The Wolf of Kisimul Castle is a quick historical romance that provided an enjoyable reading escape to another time and place. It's been a little while since I have read a historical romance, and I'm glad that I picked this one up.