I enjoyed this friends-to-lovers romance. It took me a minute to get into it, but it was entertaining and kept my attention for the most part. Will try this author again.

Kiernan and Ella have known each other all their lives and have been best friends. Kiernan is the only living heir of the Sinclair Laird, who despises him because of the betrayals of his mother. As a result of her betrayals, Kiernan grew up with a father who wanted nothing to do with him. But he found love and belonging with his best friend Ella, who always stood by his side. Although they have known each other all their lives, they never had any romantic intentions towards each other. When his father arranges for him to marry, it forces Ella's eyes open, and she begins to see her friend in a new light and they both realize the romantic feelings they have for each other. It looks like they may have a chance together when the marriage contract is breached, but a terrible war breaks out and secrets are revealed that will forever change their lives.
This was an entertaining and enjoyable read with interesting characters. A friends to lovers story with well-crafted characters that kept my interest all the way through.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.

So amazing! This was a wonderful book with just the right amount of spice. The characters and story were amazing! This is one you won't want to miss!

A nice book, it explores the slow realization of ones feelings. Especially in the wake of news that changes our main characters entire world. I found this book to be a slow burn and well written.

*I did receive this as an eARC from NetGalley*

The Highland Heir is the story of Kieran and Ella. Kieran is the heir to the Sinclair land and his father, Rolfe, has not been the best. His father married the love of his life, Muriel, and together they had Brody. Muriel died, and Rolfe got Kieran's mother pregnant and married her. While Rolfe was away, Kieran's mother let Brody go out to sea and he was never to be seen again. He banished the mother and she committed suicide as a reaction. This whole scenario led Rolfe to dislike Kieran because he looked exactly like his mother. Anyways, Kieran is best friends with Ella, but she is of a lower status than he. Kieran finds out that he is to be married to someone that he has never met before to form an alliance. They are to be married in a few months time. While these months play out, Kieran and Ella are starting to realized their feelings for each other. They have been friends for so long that they were used to each other's presence and were having to think about a time where they might not see each other. They will not admit their feelings to each other, though. When Ella's aunt falls sick, Kieran and Ella go visit her to make sure that she is ok. While they are there they meet Arran. Arran is very flirty with Ella. Kieran and Ella must decide to give up on their love or to fight while they can.

This was not the finest piece of literature, but I enjoyed reading it. I liked most of the plot, it was a quick read, none of the characters annoyed me, and I did not think there were too many random details like I do with most books. The one thing that was kind of icky to me was that they were doing ~things~ while he was still engaged to another women. Like, I know that they both agreed that I would mean nothing and that they knew their fate, but it felt like cheating (even though I know he still had not met her). Like everything worked out in the end and everyone is happy, I just feel bad that it took Kieran 20 years to get the love that he deserves.

The overall vibe of the book is a historical friends to lovers.
It was definitely super cute, just not one of my favorite tropes.
it was kind of in the middle for me, not the worst at any means that I have read.

ONE thing you must know about me is that i love highland romance, clans and the whole betrothal plots are so chef kiss for me, and this book has everything so for me it's perfect!!!!!!

Everything I want in a Scottish romance novel can be found in this book. There is a great romance between two characters that are enjoyable to read about. The book offers enough drama to make you want to read more. The trope of friends to lovers is present.

So the book pretty repetitive, but it was a fun quick read! Could have had just MORE, more plot, longer, etc.

Book: The Highland Heir
Author: Allison B. Hanson
Book Length: 291 Pages
Publisher: Hanson Books
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating:5 Saltire Flags

Scottish Highlands, 1546

Kieran is being raised and educated to become the leader of Clan Sinclair by his father, Laird Rolfe Sinclair, a very cold, heartless and calculating man. However Kieran is now his father’s heir, but not by his fathers choice! He had been born as the second son which had been just fine with Kieran where he could have lived his life as he chose! He would not have to settle clan feuds, worry about alliances, or be told who he was forced to marry for political reasons which definitely would not be for a love match! His father never gave him any encouragement or praises even though Kieran was a good, strong, honorable warrior and honest man! Kieran pretty much lived in his missing brother's perfect shadow. A young toddler who was presumed to be dead and has been missing since he was four years old.

Rolfe Sinclair absolutely worshiped his first son Brody as he was madly in love with his wife and absolutely hated Kieran with every fiber of his being. Since he reminded him so much of his second wife’s deception with so many similarities like her hair eye and hair coloring. On top of that he would put him down and criticize on every possible occasion never saying he made him proud or happy.

Rolfe Sinclair was a block of ice and continued to deny his second born son any love, affection or approval his entire life , making him suffer for his mother’s betrayal which is something that Kieran had nothing to do with! As Kieran was not even born and never asked to be born, his second wife took advantage of this grieving Laird. A woman who deceived his father into marriage, but she is also deceased since Kieran was an infant. He blames Kieran for all of his mothers shortcomings and sins! It is ridiculous considering he was an infant and he has been suffering his entire lifetime for his mother’s mistakes!

His father will always grieve over his first wife Muriel, and his first son Brody, no matter what Kieran does to try to get his fathers acceptance or approval he will always be criticized and never get any praise or approval from his father. In addition there are many stories about her death too which happened under very mysterious circumstances too. Yes there are many dark clouds hanging over the Sinclair castle! Afterall Kieran is only being taught to be the clan leader because his father has no other choice or son any other siblings available.

The only person that Kieran feels connected to who has given him kindness and acceptance his entire life is his best friend Ellie. Ellie’s father is the Sinclair war chief, but behaves like Kieran’s true father and gives him the love, acceptance, and support he never got from his own cold hearted and bitter father! However these two best friends' relationship changes after it is learned he was going to have a forced betrothal and marry a stranger soon for an alliance. After Kieran and Ellie share a meaningful kiss they both realize they are much more than friends! Kieran must marry due to his lairdship status, something Ella knew would happen. Except she wasn’t expecting her feelings to change and realizing she was madly in love with Kieran Sinclair! Most likely she always had been!

Kieran also realizes that his Ellie is the love of his life as he is not happy about this forced alliance betrothal! How was he to get out of this prison and marry the woman he loves? Realizing he has always loved Ellie! Except if he ends this marriage alliance it could very well start a war! Fantastic story that readers definitely don’t want to miss!

Wow! Allison B. Hanson is an extraordinary story teller as this friends to lovers romance absolutely swept me to the stars and back! It is filled with twists and turns and so many shocking events that definitely gave me chills up my spine! This book will definitely knock your socks off as this friends to lovers romance is a definite winner! A book I will definitely be rereading again! I totally loved The Highlanders Heir and definitely was reading this book late into the night! I can’t wait for my next Hanson read!

Disclaimer: I received an advance reader’s copy from Hanson Publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.

Well written and enjoyable story. Great plot with some twists and turns.
I will read more from this author!
Highly recommend

“The Highland Heir” by Allison Hanson is a delightful historical fiction novel set in the rugged Highlands. This friends-to-lovers story with an arranged marriage twist offers readers a sweet and heartwarming escape. The book falls into the “closed door, low spice, sweet” category, making it a perfect interlude between more intense reads.

The story revolves around Kieran, who has lived in the shadow of his late older brother, Brody. While Brody was the favored heir his father adored, Kieran, born to a woman his father despised, found a true family in his best friend, Ella. The two characters share a lifelong bond that evolves as circumstances change.

Expecting Kieran’s duty to his clan, Ella never expected her feelings for him to shift so drastically when he became engaged. The novel skillfully explores their evolving relationship as they navigate their arranged marriage and the unexpected emotions that come with it.

“The Highland Heir” is told from a dual point of view, allowing readers to delve into the inner thoughts and emotions of the main characters. This story stands out because of the strong friendships that build over time, leading to the realization of love.

What I Loved:

*The lifelong friendship that blossoms into love creates a relatable and endearing connection between the characters.
*This very sweet tale provides a perfect break from more intense reads, offering a heartwarming story that captivates emotions.
*Well-researched with an even pace and no grammatical errors, ensuring a smooth reading experience.
*A satisfying happily-ever-after ending, complete with a charming epilogue.

What I Disliked:

*The ending felt rushed, with conflicts resolved too neatly, leaving a desire for more complexity.
*The laird’s lack of consequences for years of mental abuse towards Kieran could have been more adequately addressed.
*Ella’s abrupt decisions, while fortunate in their outcomes, could have introduced more tension and consequences to the plot.

Overall, “The Highland Heir” easily receives a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating. It’s a sweet and emotionally engaging story that provides a refreshing change of pace from heavier books, serving as a palate cleanser. Readers who enjoy this genre will likely eagerly anticipate more works from this promising author..

The Highland Heir is a wonderful Highland romance.

Kieran has been raised to be the heir to the clan Sinclair. His father Rolfe has ruled with an iron fist and has spared little time or love towards Kieran. Rolfe has been grieving since his first wife Muriel died and their son soon after. Tricked into marrying Kieran's mother he has not bothered to know Kieran. Kieran will do his duty regardless of his own wants.

Kieran has spent a lot of time with Ella while growing up. They are best of friends and can tell each other everything. Ella's father has helped raise Kieran and shown him the love his father never did. As he is told that he is to marry the Mackenzie daughter Isla, Kieran is not happy but agrees to do his duty.

Ella knew one day Kieran would be called on to do his duty to his clan and marry for an alliance. But she never expected his engagement would suddenly force them to see each other in a different light. When the marriage contract is broken, Kieran hopes it means freedom for them to be together, but instead, it leads to the possibility of war, and an unexpected secret will change all of their lives forever.

This was a wonderful afternoon read. Friends to lovers is always a fun story to read. I really enjoyed the shocking twist that changed the direction of the story.

Kieran has spent his life living in the shadow of his late older brother. Brody had been the heir his father had loved and wanted, while Kieran was born to a woman his father despised for her betrayal. Kieran has only ever felt the bond of family with his best friend, Ella. Ella knew one day Kieran would be called on to do his duty to his clan and marry for an alliance. But she never expected his engagement would suddenly force her to see him in such a different way. When the marriage contract is breached, Kieran hopes it means freedom for them to be together, but instead, it leads to war and a secret that will change their lives forever.
A well written romance, the characters have depth & are likeable. I liked both Kieran & Ella but didn’t love them, I did enjoy their journey to a HEA but wasn’t captivated by it. It was an average read for me & one that I’d not reread, I found it to be a sweet romance of friends to lovers & I must admit I like a bit more umph
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

Thank you to the author & Hanson books for the e-arc.

This book was the perfect palate cleanser if you’re in between intense reads. A Scottish romance that follows Kieran and Ella who are meant to be, but of course, it takes a bit to get there.

The writing was good & the characters were easily my favorite. If you like Scottish romances & forbidden love, you’ll like this.

I loved The Highland Heir with its best friends who do not realize their friendship has grown into a true love match. It takes them being separated by duty to make them recognize their feelings for the other. Kieran and Ella have seen, witnessed and learned a lot about life during their growing years together. Their conversation of such events is endearing and sweet. Their own experimental kissing as young teens is a good example of how close they were that they felt such comfort in trying. Even the scar each of them has shows their trust, friendship and ‘blood’ bond. I even love that they are both virgins. It just took a bit for them to realize it is probably because of their relationship with each other that neither had lain with another.

Ella and Kieran seem to both care for each other in a deep unusual way. Kieran sees that Ella is his anchor. He even tells her his wife will just need to accept their friendship. Neither want to give up the other. Just as they did so many ‘firsts’ together, so is their first experience in passion. What a beautifully loving and innocent way for them to experience physical love.

I have read the Clan MacKinlay series which brought a bit of insight into a part of this romance. But, it is not at all necessary to have read that series, although it is a great read, tool

This was a highly enjoyable Scottish romance read. I'll admit, Scottish romances don't normally appeal to me all that much. Clan politics can get a bit boring for my taste. But this book was focused entirely on the relationship between the two love interests. This book has a friends to lovers premise, and it did not disappoint. Both of the main characters are fleshed out people and the reader can tell what they see in each other. The ending of the book kind of hand waved away the central problem, but the rest of the story was sweet enough that I didn't really mind all that much. This one is definitely for those of us that like tender romances and characters that actually like each other.

This book was exactly what I was looking for - a relatively uncomplicated, quick, light read at the end of a long day. A classic friends to lovers with some kilts thrown in for good measure. There were some elements of the plot that I think could have been handled with a little more nuance, and maybe a little more complexity in the characters, and the plot in general would have been nice. Things almost all worked out exactly too perfectly. This almost felt more like a long novella or epilogue where its wrapping up loose ends more than weaving a complicated story. That being said - I read it in one sitting and enjoyed the perfect 'hallmark' storyline- it was a lovely escape into the Scottish highlands.

Historical Friends-to-lovers.

Kieran and Ella have been friends for years, and not it's time for Kieran to get married. He's supposed to marry someone else to keep bloodline but in that moment he realized he had feelings for Ella. How can they be together when he is supposed to marry someone else.

It was cute. Not the best book I've ever read and not the worst.

Thank you NetGalley for the e-arc version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Kieran is the only living heir of the Sinclair Laird. He has spent his life in the shadow of his deceased older brother Brody. Brody was the heir his father wanted but instead was stuck with Kieran, a son he had with a woman who tricked him into marriage. Kieran has only ever felt a family bond with his best friend Ella. But all that changes when his father surprises him with an arranged marriage.
Ella knew eventually Kieran would have to marry for the sake of the clan. With the news of his impending marriage Ella is forced to see Kieran in a different light. They had known each other all their lives but neither had thought romantically about the other. As the time for his marriage nears they both face the feeling they have. However, the marriage contract is breached. For Kieran that might mean freedom for the two of them to be together but instead it leads to a possible war and secrets revealed.
I have always been a big fan of historical romances. I enjoyed this one it was like going back to my roots. A simple but good read. I loved the friendship between Kieran and Ella. Before the point of romantic chemistry the two had a natural flowing friendship that was evident in the writing. Once they did reach a romantic point it flowed naturally in that direction just as it was supposed to. It was not jarring as it sometimes can be.
Kieran as a character to me seemed very soft spoken. He has issues with his dad but didn’t speak up until the very end. When he did speak up he was dismissed rather quickly by his dad and I wish that had been drawn out more. I think the Laird deserved to feel more guilty over his actions. Ella, was described as more of an outspoken lady who curses and does things men do. I was hoping to see more of that from her. Much of the two characters personality comes from the fact that this is written in dual POV. I would consider this more of a slow burn. The spice I would consider sweet.
I liked this book. It was a cute read. Who wouldn’t love friends to lovers, arranged marriage, and forbidden romance.