Highland Jewel

This is a fascinating fictionalized historical account, with real and imagined characters. I didn't read Highland Crown, and wish that I had because there was a gap in the story where Isabella met Cinaed. I didn't realize there had been another book in the series (there's also a third) when I got this from Netgalley, but I felt disoriented when the book jumped from Isabella being widowed to suddenly remarried, and all of them were transported to a new location. I understand the desire to be brief when telling a story that involves a previously told story. No author wants to bore their readers by repeating what they've already read, but in this case, I think a few more details would have been helpful to those of us who didn't.

The other problem I had with this book was the authors' failure to use the past perfect verb tense. It was another thing that I found disconcerting.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and was impressed by the weaving of historical and fictional events, to the point where I sometimes wondered what was real and what was not. I would be interested in reading more from this writing duo.

My only complaint about this book is that it was too short or maybe I just read it too fast. As the second book in the Royal Highlander series, it seems to be a nice fit between number one and the the final book. Relationships seemed to be the main point of this installment. The characters are very closely intertwined to each other. Their relationships to each other are very important to this series as a whole. More important than even the ones between couples, is the one between Isabella, Maisie, and Morrigan. In particular the development of a sisterhood between Maisie and Morrigan is very nicely done. We did not see too much of these two in the first book, but their presence and personalities make this one an interesting read. I love May McGoldrick 's books and this one does not disappoint. Morrigan's story promises to be very interesting, indeed.x

Highland Jewel
Royal Highlander #2
May McGoldrick
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Maisie Murray is a very quiet and docile girl in the eyes of her family, but all is not what it seems. She is an activist who is fearless when it comes to what she believes in. Maisie and her friend Fiona founded the Edinburgh Female Reform Society right after the Peterloo Massacre and she is proud to carry the banner for universal suffrage.

Niall Campbell is a hero of the wars. He is a former decorated officer of the Royal Highland Regiment who is now trying to live a normal life away from the military. His superiors are not very happy about his decision to leave, but they know that they can't stop him. One day he runs to save his sister Fiona when a protest goes bad. At the protest he finds his sister safe, but she asks him to save her friend Maisie which he does. He soon realizes that Maisie is everything he's ever wanted in a woman.

Then Fiona is arrested and dragged right off the street and disappeares leaving Niall to face the fact that his life is no longer his own because the British authorities have a mission for him to complete in exchange for his sisters freedom. In the span of one night Maisie loses Niall, Foina, and her home. In the wake of the riots that are happening all over Scotland, Maisie's own sister Isabella is branded a traitor to the crown, and they all must flee to the Highlands. In the Highlands months later Maisie meets up with Niall again. Now he has a new name and carrie's a secret message, but Niall has a task to complete and their future rests on them being able to overcome all of the obstacles that are set in front of them. For the sake of Scotland she must somehow put a stop to the only man she has ever and will ever love. Will she be able to do what needs to be done or will she shy away from what she believes in?

Oh my goodness. This book is fabulous. May McGoldrick does it again and it's even better then the last. From the second I started reading I surrendered my heart to Maisie and Niall. These two characters were so well matched in every way. They were both courageous, strong, and loyal to their causes. They did what had to be done with no thoughts as to how what might happen to themselves. I felt like I was part of the book. I was a simple bystander to one of the greatest stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. This book litterly blew my mind. May McGoldrick I don't know how you do it, but you never cease to amaze me.

The prologue gives an insight of how the "Son of Scotland" is in his current situation. It's informative and gives more background information to what took place in the "Highland Crown".

Niall has just left the army and is looking to have a quiet life away from the political unrest brought about by the English in their quest for power over Scotland.

Maisie is the "quiet" one in her family, but that doesn't mean that she is going to twiddle her thumbs and quietly watch the injustice of those inflicting pain because of their greed for power.

Maisie attends a peaceful demonstration with her best friend Fiona. Things get out of hands and Niall comes to her rescue. Subsequently, they fall in love and make future plans. Alas, when his sister is taken prisisoner, he has to abandon all his plans in order to save her. He is given a mission from which he might not return. This changes everything. Can he and Maisie find their way back to each other?

There are traitors amongst the mist. Those who will sell their soul for money and a title. This second installment in the series perfectly ties in with Cinead and Isabelle who are the main characters in the Highland Crown. It sheds light on some unanswered questions as well as keeping up with where they are, right now.

It's full of greed for power, cruelty and injustice. There is love and compassion too. It's very well written and although most of the contents are fictitious, there are some that are based on facts. I found it to be heartbreaking in places, but the love and loyalty are spellbinding. If you like a good historical romance, then this is definitely for you. I would recommend that you read the "Highland Crown" before reading the "Highland Jewel".

I was kindly issued with an eARC from Netgalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.

Maisey Murray lives with her sister, a doctor and her sister's husband and, his daughter. Maisey Murray is a dyed in the wool suffragette, who is fighting behind the scenes for women's rights in Scotland. While almost being arrested during a demonstration, she meets Naill Campbell, a retired lieutenant of the Royal Highland Regiment.
The attraction is immediate but, Niall has had enough of murder, death and, the politics of war to last him a lifetime. Little does he know that Maisey is quietly involved in the resistance against England and, their attempts to force Scotland and Ireland to bend to their will.
Niall and Maisey fall madly in love in a very short time, only to have Niall leave her for months, in order to find his sister, Maisieys'' partner in crime, who has been arrested and has vanished.
This story sweeps you up into medieval Scotland and England and, the horrific political unrest going on at that time.
I was fascinated!

A great historical romance. This story is full of secrets, betrayal and trying to find the hidden enemies. It’s book 2 and rejoins the characters and continues with the struggles of the time. A protest meeting brings Maisie and Niall together. Trouble parts them but fate had other ideas!

I have completely enjoyed this book. The characters have so much depth and the story had me transported into their world. I always like books that include characters from previous books. I like knowing what is going on for them. I truly look forward to reading the next installment of this series!


Great characters & story!

I love this book. It's well written, well researched and the cast of characters are likable and you cannot help rooting for them.
It's the first book I read by this author and won't surely be the last.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.

This well written historical romance tale chronicles the terrible time when the English tried to control the Scots and the Irish who didn't follow the English king without question The author details how horrible it was and develops several romances in the midst of the chaos. Her vivid descriptions of the characters brings them to life
The intrigue inherit in the circumstances peppers the pages and makes one hope for a HEA, despite the bleakness in some of the circumstances There is a HEA and I recommend for those who love a Scottish Historical romance

Maisie and Niall must overcome history itself in order to be together. Another masterpiece by May McGoldrick. To be fair, I am a fan of their work. I did read Highland Crown and loved it very much, and Highland Jewel did not disappoint. This is the second book in the Royal Highlanders series, and probably should be read in order to avoid confusion and references that are used. This book steps back in time a bit more before Highland Crown which at first left me thinking that perhaps this should have been first in the series. I really enjoyed hearing about some of the action from Highland Crown from another character’s perspective and meeting Morrigan. Highland Jewel then speeds past where Highland Crown left off and it all works itself into a beautifully woven story full of adventure and of course love. As is expected, team McGoldrick did their homework with intertwining historical events into fiction and it left me with wanting to find out more about the real life events that took place. I really appreciated seeing the character of Queen Caroline given a small storyline given her real life story.
My only negative would be that I would have liked to see this story be a bit longer in order to fully explain things more, it felt rushed to me. Maisie and Niall’s romance seemed to happen in a matter of days which to me didn’t fit either of their strong characters. I also thought that there wasn’t many scenes with just Maisie and Niall, there was always someone else or a reference back to Isabella’s story. The ending does leave many questions and things up in the air which was understandable given that there is another book due out soon (Highland Sword), but again, I thought it could use more.
Overall the storyline for Highland Jewel is strong and engaging with some unexpected twists and turns. Well done to the writing team and I cannot wait for Highland Sword and more of Morrigan!
My thanks to St. Martin's Press and May McGoldrick for an advanced e-copy in exchange for my review

Highland Jewel take you into a piece of Scottish history when social unrest is spreading. Maisie family thinks she a quite young lady with no interest. Only she not what they think she is. She an activist and part of the Female Reform Society with he friend Fiona. Fighting for change in Scotland when England is trying to take rights away. Fiona's brother Niall retires from the military is back home to see his sister when life takes a turn for all of them. Only thing is I wish know this was the second book of the Royal Highland Series. The first book is Highland crown which fallows Cinaed and Isabella's story. I enjoy the strong women characters who stand up for what the believe in. Can't wait for Morrigan's story to be published next.

The second installment in the Royal Highlander series is an intriguing walk through the sordid history of England, Ireland and Scotland in the late 1700's through the early 1800's. Princes Caroline Amelia Elizabeth of Brunswick-Wolfenbuttel is separated from your young son, but not by choice. She has married the present King (arranged, not by choice) and he wants the young child banished because he fears loosing the throne to him at some point.

Cinaed Mackintosh is banish, but at least he is not killed. At four years of age he set adrift without his mother.

Years later he becomes know as "the son of Scotland," a title that represents his position as the future leader of the Scottish people.

Young Maisie is a woman who also has been put adrift somewhat by the death of her parents. She though has remained with family and lives with her sister and brother-in-law. They think she is meek and mild manner. But what they don't know is that she is an activist working diligently to bring the rights of women to the forefront of politics.

This second story is the story of how Maisie falls in love, only to have it thwarted by the throws of anarchy. It is also the story of how Cinaed and his mother, the Queen, are reunited.

There is intrigue, deception, turmoil, desperation, betrayal and love. Each chapter brings us closer to devastation that might tear each character apart. But each chapter also brings us closer to how love, loyalty and integrity might triumph and bring victory to those who are oppressed.

While loosely tied to history, the story has enough relevance to what truly happened to make it an excellent read and insight into the times and lives of those caught up in political deception and control.

The characters are very well developed. They become the hero's that we all want to find in our lives and times. They will wow you, confuse you, devastate you, but also give you hope for a brighter future for the Land of the Scot's.

I am waiting with anxiousness for the third book in the series.

"Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review."

Loved this book very much. It had just enough sweet, sexy romance and the storyline was great! I highly recommend!

Highland Jewel is a delightful mix of strong heroines, daring men, and political intrigue. Scotland is in a uproar, people are protesting injustice and the new laws set forth by the crown make everyone a target. Maisie Murray is a docile little mouse at home but in reality she is a fiery spitfire that helped found a women's reform group with her best friend Fiona. Danger comes for the women and Fiona's brother Niall saves Maisie from the law. A soldier looking for peace, Niall Campbell finds love instead until disaster strikes and his sister is held over his head by the crown to make him pull off a dangerous mission. In the background runs the story of Princess Caroline trying to be reunited with her son and hoping to place a new man on the throne of Scotland. I love the unconventional female leads in this story and the men make you want to swoon. The pages turn quickly and the story draws you in for a sweet and addicting read with just the right dash of spice to heat up the pages. May McGoldrick has gained a new fan for life. My voluntary, unbiased review is based upon a review copy from Netgalley.

Highland Jewel by May McGoldrick is a fantastic historical romance. The actual history of the time is highlighted in this book as much as the character's story. I loved that, but folks that aren't big fans of history might not care for this book as well as others they may have read by this author. Maisie spends her time secretly writing speeches for the Female Reform Society and attending forbidden protests. Niall is a retired officer of the 42nd Royal Highlanders and just wants to find a peaceful life with his sister and nieces. Maisie and Niall's story is full of drama, humor, sexy bits, action and cover to cover suspense. I enjoyed reading Highland Jewel and look forward to my next book by May McGoldrick. Highland Jewel is book 2 of the Royal Highlander Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Great story full of twists and turns that keeps you reading page after page. Can't wait till the next installment.

Loved this book! This is a deeply engrossing story of a young woman, Maise, who is in love with a retired military man, Niall. They are caught in a time of great turmoil, as Maise leads a women's reform movement that is in direct conflict with laws. This puts her in the cross hairs of unscrupulous enforcers of the recent laws. At the same time, Niall is being pressured to take a position of authority with these same enforcers. When unimaginable events unfurl, the trajectory of their lives, and those close to them, are completely changed and redirected.

I found myself totally immersed in this book and flipping pages just as quickly as possible. The characters had depth and felt real as they came to life on the pages. I found myself invested in their story and wanting them to get their HEA ending.

While this is the first book I've read by this author, it won't be the last. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this series.

Fantastic historical romance!

As much as I loved Book 1, Highland Crown, I have to admit I love this one more. Still the same all-consuming historical detail that requires frequent reality checks to make sure you're still in the 21st Century, but this one was a little more sweetly focused on the romance.

And oh, what a romance! Maisie is so sweet, so perfect for Niall, and oh boy is he worthy of more than a few swoons! An love story for the ages, to be sure, yet it also felt like these were everyday people that we'd be friends with in real life. I was completely swept away, and I couldn't have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

I've always been intrigued by historical fiction but hold a special affection for stories that take place in the Highlands before and after the Jacobite rebellion and the battle of Culloden (cue Outlander *sigh*).

The Highland Jewel is a historical gem, highlighting the Female Reform Society in which the heroine, Maisie, was instrumental in developing.

Niall, an ex officer of the Royal Highlander Regiment, returns home to lead a quiet life until he meets Maisie, his sister Fiona's best friend.

There's plenty of intrigue and mystery as Maisie and Niall's story is further complicated by the return of the "son of Scotland" stirring up dormant Jacobite sentiments.

The writing is excellent and transported me in time for the duration of the novel. Loved it!

Maybe I'm a broken record, but I'll say it again. I love May McGoldrick's books. They are clever, have great character development, have excellent chemistry, intrigue the reader, and leave me wanting more. Also, I love how they have infused some actual events and historical accuracies into this romance. Everything about it works for me and I always dread waiting for the next book in the series.

This story focuses on Maisie Murray, Isabella Drummond's sister (from HIghland Crown - Royal Highlander book 1). Maisie is not what she seems. In fact she's been hiding in the shadows of her sister's brilliance as a doctor. What her family doesn't know is that she's involved in advocacy for women's rights, starting a women's equality group along with her best friend, Fiona. When things become unsettled with the royal government and gathering becomes illegal, she and Fiona find themselves in danger. Fiona's brother, Niall Campbell, a retired soldier helps his sister and Maisie escape some drastic "police" violence and arrests. Of course, Maisie and Niall fall in love (and it's so yummy), and they will wed. Until Fiona goes missing, arrested by the crown, and Niall is forced to complete one of the crown's missions.

This ultimately takes him into contact again with Maisie. And once reconnected, their love blooms and the plot thickens with a twist.

I love this series and eagerly await the third.

Wow, what a story. It was intense and was exciting. It is so surprising that people betrayed, killed, and were just plain nasty. The English were very cowardly. I know that not all were but they had some heavy hitters and Prinny was among them. They want the status quo and didn't care who it hurt. The authors were knowledgable about the history and it was so superbly written, there was no way you could put it down. The characters were refreshing and so in love.
Maisie Murray was the sister of a female doctor. She had been subversive, militant and started a group to fight for the rights of women and the hunger and cruelty of the government. They demonstrated, gave out handbills and peacefully protested.
Lieutenant Naill Campbell of the 42nd Royal Highlanders, rather he retired and wanted to find a simpler life. Fiona, who is Naill sister and Maisie formed the Edinburgh Female Reform Society to make people aware. I am so glad I got the chance to read the novel.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed it.

A great continuation of the Royal Highlander series! I love reading about strong characters and it is fascinating to see them interwoven into history. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

BUY BUY BUY BUY BUY>>>>> BUY!
This author never lets you down. From the first page to the last, I was totally enthralled. I was pulled into another world, another time. I must admit to being totally captivated by this story. I loved her characters, her plot and all in all this was a fantastic read for me. A compelling story that has so many layers and so much heart that it made me sad when it ended and left me wanting more immediately. So if you want a fantastic read... this is definitely the one to get. I was given this arc. However, all opinions expressed here are totally my own. So if you want a fantastic read... buy this book.
Regards,
Anna

Highland Jewel is the second book in the Royal Highlander series. The entire series has been wonderful. The author writes such detailed history to go along with her romances. The book was well written and hard to put down.

I have voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this title given to me through NetGalley. This book was just absolutely wonderful. It was just so easy to get lost in and I just couldn’t put it down. This is the second book in the Royal Highlander series and even though I hadn’t read the previous book I was just so lost within this story that I didn’t even care that I hadn’t read the previous books. I most definitely will read more by this author.

Highland Jewel grabbed me from the beginning and held my interest throughout! Great book! Highly recommend

Highland Jewel is a great addition to May McGoldrick's series, Royal Highlander. I think I loved this one even more than the first book. I give it five stars and recommend it for those who enjoy historical romance.

I have not yet read book 1 in this series but I will now do so. This story was fascinating. I enjoyed the history involved and the well defined characters. The words on the pages flow with this story!
Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and to NetGalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.