A Highlander's Temptation

I've read most of Sue-Ellen Welfonder's books including the ones written as Allie Mackay. This is another pleasant romp through the highlands. Don't expect anything deep or earth-shatteringly complex and you won't be disappointed. It is a simple story that allows the reader to relax and enjoy it for what it is...simple escapism and entertainment. I enjoyed Arabella's strength and commitment to her choices. She is not a wimp, but rather a strong woman determined to win her man without losing who she is in the process. I'm looking forward to reading more of Ms. Welfonder's tales in the future!

"Ms. Welfonder has brought historical Scotland to life in this book. The characters are lively and entertaining. The scenery is enthralling and magical and you can tell that Ms. Welfonder has a special place in her heart for Scotland and these spirited characters. This enchanting tale has a little bit of everything in it. Longing, betrayal, an ancestral feud, an interfering ghost, a magical relic and so much more. Immerse yourself in these pages and you will find yourself in Scotland in the 1350's, surrounded by sexy kilted men and beautiful independent women. If you find a Scottish brogue attractive, then you will be in heaven while reading this story. Action packed and full of adventure, there is not a dull moment to be found. Darroc and Arabella's characters are top notch and they are surrounded by fantastic support characters. Many of whom I hope will one day get to have their stories told also. While the attraction that flames between Darroc and Arabella is quite strong, sex itself does not play a large part in this story. The author has done an amazing job of bringing out the sensuality of the story without overriding it with sex. There is not enough room in this review for me to tell you how much I enjoyed this book. This book is one of the best books I've read in months." - 5 Hearts, Jacquelyn R. Ward

In 1350 Lady Arabella Mackenzie argues with her father the Black Stag of Kintail (see DEVIL IN A KILT - where it all began) that she must go to her new property the Seal Isles that he bestowed on her as part of her bride price. He calls it rubbish, but she is determined to have an adventure and find her true love like her younger sisters have; her plans is to visit the legendary Giving Stone. Vikings attack her ship during a storm, but Arabella survives due to singing seals and Darroc MacConacher who takes her to his Castle Bane. Everyone at the castle hates her father especially Darroc whose clan has had deadly incidents with the Black Stag. However, sweet caring Arabella befriends all. As she and Darroc falls in love, he struggles to balance his need for the daughter with his desire to destroy her father. This is an enjoyable medieval romance starring a wonderful heroine and a conflicted confused lead male. The story line takes off with the opening clash between father and daughter as the Black Stag shouts, busters, and silences his way to what he wants, but loses anyway as he would do anything for his oldest daughter except perhaps make peace with the MacConacher clan. The story line is owned by Darroc who feels schizoid between his love for Arabella and his hate for her daddy. Sue-Ellen Welfonder has written a wonderful historical romance that will make readers feel as if they have gone back to the past as the scenes are so vividly colorful and realistic. Harriet Klausner

Afraid of growing old, never experiencing passion and love, Arabella KacKenzie seeks an adventure. When she confronts her father, the Black Stag of Kintail, Duncan MacKenzie, with her idea, he's dead set against it. But with the help of her mother and dear friend Sir Marmaduke, Duncan is persuaded into letting Arabella have her way. He is for the most part responsible for Arabella's lonely, unmarried state, refusing and scaring off potential suitors. Now on her adventure out to sea as she heads to a special island, Seal Isle, bequeathed to her by her father as part of her bride price, Arabella runs into the dreaded Black Vikings. A myth most people claim them to be. She remembers seeing the horror as the evil Vikings destroy the merchant cog ship she's on, killing everyone aboard. Yet she finds herself saved by Darroc MacConacher, Laird of the MacConachers of MacConacher Isle. Darroc MacConacher is set on vengeance against the Mackenzies for their part in the legendary slaughter of his clan many years ago. But when he realizes who the beauty is laying in his bed recovering from her wounds, a battle ignites within himself, for he wants the lass like he's never wanted one before. She fires his blood, as he fires hers. He wants Arabella, but can he put aside his dislike for the MacKenzies and accept and take the love Arabella offers him? I very much loved this sweet, and at times haunting tale. There are several things that enhanced this book, making it a pleasure to sink into. Always reading about Duncan and Linnet MacKenzie (Devil in a Kilt) puts a smile on my face. The ever proud, and stubborn it's-my-way-or-the-highway Duncan. Well, when his lovely wife Linnet isn't around, that is, putting him back in his place with her quiet and patient nature. And this one being about Arabella, Duncan's eldest daughter, he and Linnet have a nice role throughout. And of course, the ever present Devorgilla of Doon. A MacKenzie tale wouldn't be right if the old crone wasn't concocting some magic or other to ensure that love blossoms and blooms as she's tucked away on her little isle looking over those she holds dear. This installment in the MacKenzies is a true treasure, one that left me with a smile, a warm heart, and a renewal of my desire to visit the faraway land of Scotland. It's always such a pleasure to be whisked away, and in A Highlander's Temptation, Ms. Welfonder does it on the turbulent waters surrounding the Hebridean Isles off the coast of Scotland. A delightful and charming romantic tale of the healing power of love!