Highland Crown was a pleasant read that features an intriguing plot with a few unexpected surprises along the way.

Isabella Drummond is wanted by men on both sides of the Scottish rebellion, the British who think she can name the rebels and the rebels who fear she will do just that. While hiding out awaiting passage to Canada, Isabella finds a ship’s captain washed ashore after losing his ship and Isabella can’t help but save the man. But Cinaed Mackintosh is not a man without secrets of his own and soon the pair are forced to flee to the Mackintosh homestead in a bid to outrun their pursuers. With their connection deepening by the day, Isabella and Cinaed will soon be forced to decide how much they’re willing to sacrifice for a chance at happily ever after.

Isabella is a university trained physician, a rare feat for a woman of her time. I admired Isabella’s determination to practice medicine despite society ruling it a profession for men. Isabella is dedicated to her work and is very good at what she does. Prior to going on the run, Isabella was married to a reformer who gave his life for the cause leading the authorities to assume Isabella had knowledge of other reformers in the area.

Cinaed was forced to leave him home as a child and he ended up being put to work on a ship. Through years of hard work and determination, Cinaed earned a ship of his own which was ultimately destroyed at the beginning of the book. Cinaed ended up having connections is some rather unexpected places and it was those connections that put him on the path that led to meeting Isabella.

Isabella and Cinaed’s relationship is where I had a bit of trouble with this book. Personally I never bought into the quick connection between the pair and I felt there wasn’t enough build up to anything real developing between them. During their travels there unfortunately wasn’t a lot of time for the two to spend time alone together which I think is what led to my lack of interest in their pairing. However there was a section of the book that has the pair entering into a bit of a fake dating scenario which I did enjoy as that’s one of my favorite romance tropes.

This book is centered against the backdrop of the Scottish rebellion and there are a number of scenes involving protests and similar events. In addition to scenes focused on the rebels, there are also a number involving the British authorities charged with dispelling the rebellion. I have personally never read a book that focused on these events and I have to say it was quite interesting. I’m definitely going to look into it some more on my own as I only have limited knowledge from school, television, and movies.

Despite the issues I had with the romance, I still enjoyed Highland Crown and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series,Highland Jewel, which looks to be more suited to my tastes.

I liked this book just had trouble staying focuced on it. Will definitely try reading again when I can try and focus better and will look up more of her books.

POST TO GO LIVE 04/29/19 @ 8PM EST
4 Wine Glass #ARC #Review of Highland Crown by May McGoldrick

Highland Crown, a tale wrought with danger and passion as two people find a cause worth fighting for, a love worth sacrificing for, in a land rife with unrest. Get swept away in 1820's Scotland...

Isabella Drummond is a woman living in a man's world. A woman physician is practically unheard of but thanks to her father and husband, she has been able to fulfill her dreams and practice alongside of them. Her world is quickly turned upside down though when a peaceful protest in Edinburgh turns deadly. Now widowed and on the run from the English military and Scottish rebels, Isabella must put her trust in strangers if she and her young charges every hope to survive. When she comes across an injured seaman though, all caution is thrown to the wind and duty prevails. Nursing the injured sea captain back to health may bring more danger barreling down on her, but it also brings feelings she's never experienced until now. But is love worth the risk?

Cinaed Mackintosh has lived his life alone. With only his ship and crew, he's done what he feels is right for his country and men, but has never felt a part of it all. Until he meets Isabella Drummond on a deadly shoreline. Now the British military finally knows his face, Highland tempers are reaching a boiling point, and he's fighting not only for his life, but the life of the woman he loves and the country that he calls home. But Cinaed Mackintosh has more at stake then he realizes, and a past that he never imagined is quickly catching up to him. Can he prove to Isabella that the life they have only just begun to share is also worth fighting for? Or will his uncertain future send her running for good?

Highland Crown is a fascinating tale of history and romance, with equal amounts of fact and fiction woven throughout. I'm not sure that there is a historical romance reader out there who doesn't respect the strength and integrity of Scotland's ancient Highlanders. Or whose hearts don't break for the suffering and injustice that they suffered at the hands of England. And who don't fall a little bit in love with these courageous men and women. Authors May McGoldrick caption all of those feelings beautifully, weaving a captivating story that is rich and complex. With engaging characters, vivid world-building, pulse-pounding attraction, and explosive action.

Though the story started off slow for me, I quickly found myself intrigued by Isabella and her flight of survival. She's a strong heroine who was able to find her feet in the midst of peril, and as the story progressed I enjoyed watching her grow into the independent, self-assured women that wasn't afraid to fight for what she believed in. While her and Cinaed had an instant attraction, I felt that their relationship grew gradually despite the short time-line. It was well-fleshed out, and even with feigning a marriage for Isabella's protection, the author's took the time for the characters to get to know each other before declaring everlasting love. Cinaed is a delightful hero, the Son of Scotland, I can't wait to see how his story unfolds further in the next two books. I found it interesting that he was younger then Isabella, since that was uncommon for the time period. I thought that he brought some much needed light and laughter to Isabella's life, despite their dire circumstances. They were a well-matched couple that fought against all odds for their love, and I adored their story.

Bottom line is, Highland Crown is exactly the kind of historical romance that I love to read. I was easily immersed in the narrative, becoming lost in the wilds of the Highlands, and never wanting to leave. Though the ending was heart-warming, more questions arose, and I am delighted to learn that Isabella and Cinaed's story will continue with two more books in the series, that will also include Isabella's younger half-sister and step-daughter. If you enjoy being swept away into the intricacies of Scotland's past, I recommend that you pick up this book on it's release!

This was requested on a whim, even though I wasn’t sure about part of the synopsis.

I loved Isabella and Cinaed. She’s a level headed doctor and he’s a strong ship captain. Together they have a quick connection and fight for each other. I loved their chemistry and all of the scenes with them together.

Plot wise is where I struggled. I didn’t quite get invested in the thread of politics and there were a few dry parts where I skimmed. I was looking for dialogue and scenes with Isabella and Cinaed and I devoured those sections. It did seem like a slow burn with a super quick resolution and an abrupt ending.

Overall, it was the characters that kept me reading and I am eager to see how the rest of the story goes.

**Huge thanks to St. Martin’s Paperbacks for providing the arc free of charge**

As many others like me, I was attracted to this story by the idea of a female physician in the early 19th century. Unfortunately, it was nothing like I expected and the book ended up in thorough disappointment.
From my perspective, it was more historical than romantic, slow and, though I read the whole thing, I was only on board with the story for short snippets of it. During those times, I even thought I might try book #2, but when the last twist of the story was revealed, I decided my time was too valuable to follow that cliffhanger.

"Highland Crown" by May McGoldrick
For me this was a hard read... But the setting is in a hard time in Scotland's history. Yes there is romance, and violence. I think I had moments of glee and for sure fear for the characters. If you like 1820's historical fiction set in Scotland this is for you. It is the first book in a three book series. I was gifted an ARC via NetGalley and the opinions expressed are mine. I think the story is well done.. the reason for only four stars... I prefer lighter, happier, stories.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Many thanks to the author and for this opportunity.

I rarely give out a 5 star rating, for me a book must be outstanding and riveting to achieve high praise. Highland Crown by May McGoldrick has moved into that rare category. An astounding amount of research must have happened to mix fiction and history so seamlessly. I'm interested in learning more about "The Rising" thanks to the author.

Highland Crown refers to a ships name and also a mysterious part of the plot. We start with a dying Sir Walter Scott lamenting his part in the downfall of an autonomous Scotland. His reminiscing leads us into this heartrending tale.

Set in 1820 Scotland we're in what is called "The Rising", protests across the country for freedom from England. Pockets of activists, called reformers, stage work stoppages which makes the British very angry, it's considered treason. They ride in with guns blazing to "contain" the rable-rousers which really means death.

We have our hero, Cinaed MacKintosh, something of a privateer and loyal to his country. He's referred to as the "Son of Scotland". He loses his ship and cargo along a costal town where Isabella Murray Drummond is hiding out. Thanks to her late husband, our heroine is fleeing not only the British but also the reformers. The bounties on her head are astronomical. These 2 are thrown together by circumstances, there's strength in numbers. The attraction is instant, you know fate has brought them to each other, ah cupid. I'll not include any spoilers so you can enjoy this wonderful tale yourself.

Highland Crown is the first in a trilogy and is available April 30,2019, Highland Jewel will be next up. I'll be waiting. Happy reading.

#HighlandCrown #MayMcGoldrick #StMartin'sPress #historicalromance #NetGalley

Book Title: Highland Crown
Author: May McGoldrick
Pub Date: April 30th, 2019

***ARC was provided to me by Net Galley and the Publisher for a fair and honest review***

Overall rating: 5/5 If you are looking for the start of a romantic adventure, this is the story for you.

Heroine (Isabella Drummond): 5/5 She is a doctor and her first husband was involved in Scottish Rebellion meetings. She thought she never wanted to be apart of any rebellion until she is already in one.

Hero (Cinaed Mackintosh): 5/5 The Son of Scotland is a sea captain who smuggled goods and firearms for the purpose of a Scottish Rebellion.

Plot: 5/5 Isabella is on the run and in hiding from the British crown’s men when a ship’s captain washes up on the beach after an explosive ship wreck. Isabella tends to the man and they travel to what they hope is safety when they get swept up in a rebellion movement. The same movement that got Isabella’s husband killed and forced her to go into hiding in the first place. Will taking Cinaed’s name be enough to cover her identity? Will it remain only a cover?

Personal Review: I loved the story. I just finished binging Outlander on Starz and this was a great read to follow up with. There was great tension with the cat and mouse game with the antagonist. I wish we Isabella got her step daughter and sister back earlier in the story so they’re not so new in the next book. But other than that it was a fun ride.

A fast action historical fiction with memorable characters. This was my first book read of May McGoldrick but will not be my last. Truly enjoyed this one.

I am a fan of this book genre. The mix of historical data, location and unexpected (to them) romance is always a winner to me. This book kept me wanting to read more and not want to set it down....wanting to see exactly how things would work out. The dashing captain, Cinaed and the strong-willed Isabella, were meant to both clash and love. The villainous British officer and his soldiers during the turbulent uprising times of the Scottish people bring the drama to the story. Well-worth reading. Was surprised to find that this is the first in a series....but totally look forward to the next two books to see how the story of Cinaed and Isabella, family and friends plays out. Thanks to author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book in return for an honest interview, which this has been. #HighlandCrown, #StMartinsPress, #NetGalley

I enjoyed this story of Cinaed & Isabella from their unconventional meeting to how they save each other throughout the story. I love how they form a bond from saving each other & how the Scottish people respond to them. This is a great historical romance! I can’t wait for the next in the series to find out more about this story.

2.5

I went into this not realizing that it was the first in a trilogy, and was a little let down by the ending as the story line did not feel resolved. Regardless, if you're a history buff and a romance lover, you'll appreciate the time and depth McGoldrick put into the book. She seems to have perfectly captured the spirit of Scotland and woven a fun, fierce story with Isabella and Cinaed.

The authors have done such a great job with the research that its difficult to separate fact from fiction. Isabella Drummond is a beautiful woman, a physician dragged against her will into rebelling against the Scots and the British. Fleeing from her enemies it seems like she lands right into a hornets nest? or is it?

Cineaed has long stayed away from his homeland helping his turbulent clans people by riding the high seas and providing money and arms to fight against the tyranny of the British. When his ship is blown out of the water, he's cast ashore wounded. Isabella's medical skills save him putting yet another price on her head.
As the two of them sojourn in Inverness on the way home to his home in the Scottish highlands they are thrust into all manner of adventures hunted by British and Scots alike. Inverness is a hot bed and they're thrust right in the middle. Suprises and secrets await them in the highlands. The secrets so explosive that they will leave readers agog. I can't wait to see the rest of the tale unfold.
While the history is impeccable, the tale rich and explosive the book is long and the story moves a tad slow for my liking. Yet I can't wait to read the next chapter in this story.

This story follows a recent widow doctor fleeing the British Army as well as group of Radical Scots as both feel she knows too much. During her flight she saves the life of a Scottish ship captain, who in turns saves hers and their feelings for each other grow.

Things I liked about this book:
I love books that keep to the time period and include real historic events and people. This story does that so well and the writing itself is great! I also really loved the supporting characters, they were interesting, funny and really contributed to the story. The main characters were well developed and interesting to learn about as well.

Things I didn't love:
Something was lacking for me in the love story, as much as I was rooting for them I just didn't believe that they could fall so quickly. Emotions run high in high stakes situations, but something about the insta-love in this story just didn't sit quite right.
Also didn't love that some of the most exiting scenes were glossed over with a "fade to black", the sex scenes didn't bother me so much with this technique, but the biggest, most traumatic moment for the heroine is completely not there and we just see her leaving a room and then explaining vaguely what happened.

3.5 stars

This was a riveting, fast-paced romantic adventure story! The main characters were engaging, and their story and romance were captivating.

Cinaed Mackintosh has relied on no one but himself since he was a young boy when his family signed him on as ship boy to a merchant ship. Now a ship captain, Cinaed makes the difficult decision to torch his ship full of ammunition when his ship runs aground. While making his way to shore in a long boat, a local villager shoots him and he plunges into the sea. Isabella Drummond while hiding from the Crown finds Cinaed on the beach. Lucky for him, she's a doctor and she uses all her skill to to keep him alive. Thus begins their journey of hiding and confronting a determined Crown soldier bent on taking them both in custody dead or alive.

I really liked Cinaed. He was everything a hero should be--kind, considerate and a sense of right and wrong. He instantly connected with Isabelle, not only for her skill as a doctor, but on a deeper level. Something about her stirs passion within him that he hasn't felt in a long time. The same goes for Isabelle. Even though she was married before, she had never felt such passion as she does with Cinaed. Isabelle and Cinaed were both well defined characters and I enjoyed their story. I loved how the author interwove historical fact with fiction. I'm looking forward to reading the next chapter in this series.

HIGHLAND CROWN is the first book in May McGoldrick new series, Royal Highlander. While reading this book, the television series Dr. Quinn Medicine Women kept swimming in my head. So, if you loved the television show as much as I did, then you most certainly will enjoy HIGHLAND CROWN. With a fast-pace storyline and great character development, this title is a must read. HIGHLAND CROWN had a ton of history elements that will satisfy any history buff, you can tell the author took enough time to research this era. I can’t wait to see what happen next. Epic start to a new historical romance

What a great book! A fabulous mix of fiction and history wrapped up in an engaging romance. I finished it in less than a day.

Highland Crown follows Isabella Drummond, a strong willed physician, and Cinead Mackintosh through Scotland. Isabella is running for her life after a bounty is put upon her head. Both the English and the Scotts are after her for the reward and her family is hidden keep them safe. She saves Cinead after he washes up on shore after his ship is run aground and he was shot. He saves her from being caught from an English Lieutenant and their adventure starts.

I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!

I was gifted this arc in exchange for my honest review.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
The stunning Highlands Is the backdrop for this intense and emotionally charged book , the authors have once again overwhelmed my senses with such beautiful descriptions and strong characters.
I’ve immensely enjoyed reading this the first in this series and can’t tell you how much I long for the next .
The history that is built into the story , blends seamlessly with the fictional.
The colourful descriptions of the country and highlands fairly takes your breath away , giving a convincing and wholly addictive read .
I can’t praise the book enough.
Loved every page .
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

Loved it. I’m headed to Scotland this summer and have been reading a lot of fiction taking place in Scotland. So much happens to Cinead and Isabella. I was thrilled to find out that this was the first of a series, I can’t wait until to see how secrets revealed in this book play out in the next.