jasmyn9's review
5.0
This series has completely wrapped me around its finger. It's not often I give two books in a row from a series 5 stars, but A Highland Fairy Tale is just enchanting. The subtle nods to classic fairy tales, mixed with exciting highlander romance seems to be the perfect combination for me. And Lecia Cornwall does a great job mixing them together just right.
Malcolm may not look much like a highlander at first, but deep down in his blood he's highlander through and through. When his clan tracks him down in the city to come be the new Laird of Dunbronach, he thinks it's a joke. He's a lawyer - not a highlander. But to honor his estranged father's dying wish, he'll go back, but he won't be staying.
But the mysterious woman who washes up on shore may make him change his mind. The clan is convinced she's a selkie, but there's a secret that Malcolm hides from everyone - she's the daughter of a clan the MacDonald's have sworn to kill.
There's a dash of lies, some mistaken identity, and a just a hint of mermaid and selkie lore to add a hint of magic to the story. A finding of yourself theme for Malcolm, and he'll need his mystery woman to pull it all together. A great romance, and a great story. I can't wait to see what's next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
Malcolm may not look much like a highlander at first, but deep down in his blood he's highlander through and through. When his clan tracks him down in the city to come be the new Laird of Dunbronach, he thinks it's a joke. He's a lawyer - not a highlander. But to honor his estranged father's dying wish, he'll go back, but he won't be staying.
But the mysterious woman who washes up on shore may make him change his mind. The clan is convinced she's a selkie, but there's a secret that Malcolm hides from everyone - she's the daughter of a clan the MacDonald's have sworn to kill.
There's a dash of lies, some mistaken identity, and a just a hint of mermaid and selkie lore to add a hint of magic to the story. A finding of yourself theme for Malcolm, and he'll need his mystery woman to pull it all together. A great romance, and a great story. I can't wait to see what's next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
loverofromance's review
4.0
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Malcolm MacDonald, a lawyer in Edinburgh is shocked to learn that he is the next Laird. A clan that he hasn't been around for many years, and on top of everything will have to earn the trust of everyone in the clan. But there is one problem, well many problems, but when he stumbles across a injured lass wrapped in the plaid of the their enemy the MacDonald's, he hides the evidence because he has no idea what they will do to this innocent woman who has no memory of who she is even though he knows where she comes from and her life could be in danger if anyone finds out the truth. Ranat, has no memory of who she is or where she comes from. All she knows is that the sea and fresh air calls out to her. She feels drawn to Malcolm, and even though he tries to put distance between them the chemistry between them is powerful and not even he can resist what they feel for each other. But Malcolm is hiding a horrible secret and if he isn't honest with her in time he could lose her forever...
When A Laird Finds A Lass is another wonderful tale from our esteemed author Lecia Cornwall. Now this one is even better than the first book, which I didn't think was possible since I adored Beauty and the Highland Beast. Quite frankly....I had so much fun with the fairy tale that this story is based on : The Little Mermaid. Our heroine is quite the swimmer, the water calls to her and she swims naturally like a fish. Our story starts out with our heroine. She thinks she is in love but then is betrayed. So when a suitor comes calling looking to marry one of the famous Macdonald sisters, she volunteers. On the journey to her new home with her new husband, she finds a horrible truth and is betrayed once again. But is injured and finds herself without her memory and our hero finds her and is captivated!! Our hero has good reasons for keeping the truth from his clan ( I definitely understood that) however I couldn't understand why he kept the truth from Ranat ( and yes weird name but they didn't know her real name and you understand the reason behind naming her that in the book) We do have a couple of villains here actually. The first is Ranat's Husband, he is pretty horrible, wanting to use her for revenge against her clan. Then we have the cousin to Malcolm, who one of the elders of the clan is misguided and wanted him instead. Quite frankly, he should be shot. Tends to rape women whenever he gets drinking. But the clan as a whole were so awesome. They are pretty close knit to each other, which makes sense since many of their people have died from a disease. Especially in how they welcome Ranat and make her a part of the clan. They protect and care for each other. Malcolm proves to be one of the best leaders that really brings things together for them all. Malcolm has no idea what he is really doing, but he fits the role so well. The romance that develops between these two is almost a game of give and take. Malcolm wants to pursue something real with Ranat, but the secret keeps from her, eats him up inside. Ranat, knows what is between them and pursues Malcolm. I really adored the heroine here, because she just knows there isn't another man from her past she could love more than Malcolm. And not afraid to go after who she really wants!!
I did like seeing how these two in different ways fight for the love they share for each other and so many sweet and sexy moments to enjoy.
I love the dress, and the purple colored plaid with the backdrop of the sea. And you know I love the lettering used in this one.
When A Laird Finds A Lass is a charming highland romance that sweeps you off your feet with adventure, passion, and the magic of true love....ENCHANTING!!!
My choice would be If Only, from the Little Mermaid Musical. I was thinking about this whole soundtrack while I was reading this book, because it was all these little things that made me think of this fairy tale and loved seeing this adaption. Its actually rare to see an adaption of The Little Mermaid in fairytale retellings, so it made me want to get a mermaid tail of my own or maybe a sexy highland laird close to the seashore.
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Summary
Malcolm MacDonald, a lawyer in Edinburgh is shocked to learn that he is the next Laird. A clan that he hasn't been around for many years, and on top of everything will have to earn the trust of everyone in the clan. But there is one problem, well many problems, but when he stumbles across a injured lass wrapped in the plaid of the their enemy the MacDonald's, he hides the evidence because he has no idea what they will do to this innocent woman who has no memory of who she is even though he knows where she comes from and her life could be in danger if anyone finds out the truth. Ranat, has no memory of who she is or where she comes from. All she knows is that the sea and fresh air calls out to her. She feels drawn to Malcolm, and even though he tries to put distance between them the chemistry between them is powerful and not even he can resist what they feel for each other. But Malcolm is hiding a horrible secret and if he isn't honest with her in time he could lose her forever...
Plot and Story Line
When A Laird Finds A Lass is another wonderful tale from our esteemed author Lecia Cornwall. Now this one is even better than the first book, which I didn't think was possible since I adored Beauty and the Highland Beast. Quite frankly....I had so much fun with the fairy tale that this story is based on : The Little Mermaid. Our heroine is quite the swimmer, the water calls to her and she swims naturally like a fish. Our story starts out with our heroine. She thinks she is in love but then is betrayed. So when a suitor comes calling looking to marry one of the famous Macdonald sisters, she volunteers. On the journey to her new home with her new husband, she finds a horrible truth and is betrayed once again. But is injured and finds herself without her memory and our hero finds her and is captivated!! Our hero has good reasons for keeping the truth from his clan ( I definitely understood that) however I couldn't understand why he kept the truth from Ranat ( and yes weird name but they didn't know her real name and you understand the reason behind naming her that in the book) We do have a couple of villains here actually. The first is Ranat's Husband, he is pretty horrible, wanting to use her for revenge against her clan. Then we have the cousin to Malcolm, who one of the elders of the clan is misguided and wanted him instead. Quite frankly, he should be shot. Tends to rape women whenever he gets drinking. But the clan as a whole were so awesome. They are pretty close knit to each other, which makes sense since many of their people have died from a disease. Especially in how they welcome Ranat and make her a part of the clan. They protect and care for each other. Malcolm proves to be one of the best leaders that really brings things together for them all. Malcolm has no idea what he is really doing, but he fits the role so well. The romance that develops between these two is almost a game of give and take. Malcolm wants to pursue something real with Ranat, but the secret keeps from her, eats him up inside. Ranat, knows what is between them and pursues Malcolm. I really adored the heroine here, because she just knows there isn't another man from her past she could love more than Malcolm. And not afraid to go after who she really wants!!
"Kiss me," she whispered against his mouth.
"To see if you remember? It's a dangerous game."
She shook her head "No. This time it's not a game, or a test. I don't want to think about the past or the future or anyone else. I just want now, with you."
"But if--" he began, and she put her finger over his lips, silencing him.
"No, Malcolm. Tonight you are not a lawyer or a laird. I am no one's wife, or a selkie, or even your pretend bride. I am a woman and you are the man I desire."
I did like seeing how these two in different ways fight for the love they share for each other and so many sweet and sexy moments to enjoy.
The Cover
I love the dress, and the purple colored plaid with the backdrop of the sea. And you know I love the lettering used in this one.
Overall View
When A Laird Finds A Lass is a charming highland romance that sweeps you off your feet with adventure, passion, and the magic of true love....ENCHANTING!!!
Books N Tunes
My choice would be If Only, from the Little Mermaid Musical. I was thinking about this whole soundtrack while I was reading this book, because it was all these little things that made me think of this fairy tale and loved seeing this adaption. Its actually rare to see an adaption of The Little Mermaid in fairytale retellings, so it made me want to get a mermaid tail of my own or maybe a sexy highland laird close to the seashore.
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="24012"]
nogenreleftbehind's review
5.0
This series has completely wrapped me around its finger. It's not often I give two books in a row from a series 5 stars, but A Highland Fairy Tale is just enchanting. The subtle nods to classic fairy tales, mixed with exciting highlander romance seems to be the perfect combination for me. And Lecia Cornwall does a great job mixing them together just right.
Malcolm may not look much like a highlander at first, but deep down in his blood he's highlander through and through. When his clan tracks him down in the city to come be the new Laird of Dunbronach, he thinks it's a joke. He's a lawyer - not a highlander. But to honor his estranged father's dying wish, he'll go back, but he won't be staying.
But the mysterious woman who washes up on shore may make him change his mind. The clan is convinced she's a selkie, but there's a secret that Malcolm hides from everyone - she's the daughter of a clan the MacDonald's have sworn to kill.
There's a dash of lies, some mistaken identity, and a just a hint of mermaid and selkie lore to add a hint of magic to the story. A finding of yourself theme for Malcolm, and he'll need his mystery woman to pull it all together. A great romance, and a great story. I can't wait to see what's next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
Malcolm may not look much like a highlander at first, but deep down in his blood he's highlander through and through. When his clan tracks him down in the city to come be the new Laird of Dunbronach, he thinks it's a joke. He's a lawyer - not a highlander. But to honor his estranged father's dying wish, he'll go back, but he won't be staying.
But the mysterious woman who washes up on shore may make him change his mind. The clan is convinced she's a selkie, but there's a secret that Malcolm hides from everyone - she's the daughter of a clan the MacDonald's have sworn to kill.
There's a dash of lies, some mistaken identity, and a just a hint of mermaid and selkie lore to add a hint of magic to the story. A finding of yourself theme for Malcolm, and he'll need his mystery woman to pull it all together. A great romance, and a great story. I can't wait to see what's next!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book**
booksavvyreviews's review against another edition
3.0
Once upon a time I loved to read romance novels and every once in a while I will indulge in one.
Marcail MacLeod is the daughter of the barbaric Chief MacLeod, she is one of twelve sisters. She fancies herself in love with a boy and has been prompting him to ask her father for her hand, but she soon finds him to be a rather dishonorable man and finds herself in a position jumping for the next offer simply to spite him. Except the next is as dishonorable as the last and she dives into the depths of the sea whilst aboard a ship to avoid a miserable life…
Eventually, she turns up on shore, unconscious and without any knowledge of who she is.
Malcolm MacDonald grew up in Edinburgh, far away from the Highlands, he is set to be a lawyer, a husband, until he receives word of his father’s passing and is told he is to be the next Laird of Dunbronach. He knows nothing and he is met both with praise and disapproval.
He finds a little waif that has washed up on shore, nurses her back to health and when she wakes she has no idea who she is, so they begin to call her Ronat which means seal since they all believe she is a Selkie. That’s where the story really begins, where Malcolm has to prove himself to his kinsmen and even himself and Marcail “Ronat” has a hand in helping him.
Once Marcail settles into the MacDonald territory I felt as though she was weakened greatly, she was a fierce individual before and most of her time was spent in bed, or retreating when she felt uncomfortable. She didn’t possess the same strength as what she had in her homeland and not until the very end did she regain that.
I did enjoy Malcolm’s character, he was honorable and later on torn as to what to do. He grew as a character and by the end while he was still the same man, he was also a better character.
The romance was there, but it wasn’t a smut-driven story. There was a lot of build-ups, a lot of anticipation and when it finally did happen it was nearly the end. So while there is romancing, there isn’t a lot of smut! [Hardly any!]
The Little Mermaid was the gist of the plot line and though it is loosely based around this idea, you can easily see the influences added in with Scottish folklore.
All in all, it was a pretty decent, quick read. Personally, I’d love to have seen a little more depth in regard to the relationship between Ronat and Malcolm, it was a lot of denials and a little connection was truly developed in my opinion. There was more development surrounding the folklore of the selkies, I thought, rather than an actual plot.
Website - Facebook - Instagram
Marcail MacLeod is the daughter of the barbaric Chief MacLeod, she is one of twelve sisters. She fancies herself in love with a boy and has been prompting him to ask her father for her hand, but she soon finds him to be a rather dishonorable man and finds herself in a position jumping for the next offer simply to spite him. Except the next is as dishonorable as the last and she dives into the depths of the sea whilst aboard a ship to avoid a miserable life…
Eventually, she turns up on shore, unconscious and without any knowledge of who she is.
Malcolm MacDonald grew up in Edinburgh, far away from the Highlands, he is set to be a lawyer, a husband, until he receives word of his father’s passing and is told he is to be the next Laird of Dunbronach. He knows nothing and he is met both with praise and disapproval.
He finds a little waif that has washed up on shore, nurses her back to health and when she wakes she has no idea who she is, so they begin to call her Ronat which means seal since they all believe she is a Selkie. That’s where the story really begins, where Malcolm has to prove himself to his kinsmen and even himself and Marcail “Ronat” has a hand in helping him.
Once Marcail settles into the MacDonald territory I felt as though she was weakened greatly, she was a fierce individual before and most of her time was spent in bed, or retreating when she felt uncomfortable. She didn’t possess the same strength as what she had in her homeland and not until the very end did she regain that.
I did enjoy Malcolm’s character, he was honorable and later on torn as to what to do. He grew as a character and by the end while he was still the same man, he was also a better character.
The romance was there, but it wasn’t a smut-driven story. There was a lot of build-ups, a lot of anticipation and when it finally did happen it was nearly the end. So while there is romancing, there isn’t a lot of smut! [Hardly any!]
The Little Mermaid was the gist of the plot line and though it is loosely based around this idea, you can easily see the influences added in with Scottish folklore.
All in all, it was a pretty decent, quick read. Personally, I’d love to have seen a little more depth in regard to the relationship between Ronat and Malcolm, it was a lot of denials and a little connection was truly developed in my opinion. There was more development surrounding the folklore of the selkies, I thought, rather than an actual plot.
Website - Facebook - Instagram
michellini90's review against another edition
3.0
** I received a free ARC from Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review**
Malcolm Ban McDonald doesn't believe in magic and superstition like the rest of his clan, that is, until Marcail McLoad washes up on his beach....
Malcolm is by far my favorite Highland hero. He's strong, sweet, kind, and a gentleman through and through. I love the description of him, and found myself wanting to run my fingers through those golden red curls. Marcail plays the Highland heroine quite nicely, but she grated on my nerves.
This story is really just the same story we've all read before, with only. few details different. I found the writing to be average, the dialogue to be average, and the plot to be average. This wasn't a bad book to read, in all honesty I enjoyed it.... but there was nothing about it that would make it memorable.
Malcolm Ban McDonald doesn't believe in magic and superstition like the rest of his clan, that is, until Marcail McLoad washes up on his beach....
Malcolm is by far my favorite Highland hero. He's strong, sweet, kind, and a gentleman through and through. I love the description of him, and found myself wanting to run my fingers through those golden red curls. Marcail plays the Highland heroine quite nicely, but she grated on my nerves.
This story is really just the same story we've all read before, with only. few details different. I found the writing to be average, the dialogue to be average, and the plot to be average. This wasn't a bad book to read, in all honesty I enjoyed it.... but there was nothing about it that would make it memorable.
margo415's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
beth5677's review against another edition
4.0
**** I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Net-galley in exchange for an honest review. ****
This is the second book and the series but you don’t have to read the first one in order to understand the story. This book is book is a loose retelling of The Little Mermaid. It was nice to have retelling of a different fairy tale, since Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast are common to see reimagined.
Malcolm Ban Mac Donald has been brought back to the home be barely remembers. The Elders of the Mac Donald’s of Dunbronach have come Edinburgh to bring him back as their new Laird. They also need him to make the final wish in a local legend. The clan also hope that their new Laird will take a wife. Anyone will do expect for MacLeod’s of Glen Iolair.
Marcail is one of the twelve daughters of Laird Donal “The Fierce” MacLeod. She wants a marriage were she will truly be loved. When sailing home with her soon-to-be husband she goes missing. When Malcolm finds a young woman floating in the sea he knows he must help her, but she’s a MacLeod. Malcolm hides her plaid and when the woman doesn’t know it is all the better.
I liked how this story flowed I enjoyed both the main characters. There were parts in the story that did seem to drag a bit, but overall it was a great read. I look forward to more in this series. It is series that really do enjoy. If you love retelling of fairy tales and hot Highlanders give this book and series a try.
This is the second book and the series but you don’t have to read the first one in order to understand the story. This book is book is a loose retelling of The Little Mermaid. It was nice to have retelling of a different fairy tale, since Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast are common to see reimagined.
Malcolm Ban Mac Donald has been brought back to the home be barely remembers. The Elders of the Mac Donald’s of Dunbronach have come Edinburgh to bring him back as their new Laird. They also need him to make the final wish in a local legend. The clan also hope that their new Laird will take a wife. Anyone will do expect for MacLeod’s of Glen Iolair.
Marcail is one of the twelve daughters of Laird Donal “The Fierce” MacLeod. She wants a marriage were she will truly be loved. When sailing home with her soon-to-be husband she goes missing. When Malcolm finds a young woman floating in the sea he knows he must help her, but she’s a MacLeod. Malcolm hides her plaid and when the woman doesn’t know it is all the better.
I liked how this story flowed I enjoyed both the main characters. There were parts in the story that did seem to drag a bit, but overall it was a great read. I look forward to more in this series. It is series that really do enjoy. If you love retelling of fairy tales and hot Highlanders give this book and series a try.
ladywithaquill's review against another edition
5.0
LOVED this book! When an author can make me enjoy every character, they have definitely done something right. Lecia Cornwall has done it again with the second book in the Highland Fairy Tale series. It was truly magical to read. I began to believe in the magic of the highlands right along with Malcolm MacDonald.
Marcail MacLeod is not having an easy time finding love. When she discovers the man whom she thought was her true love in the arms of another woman, she recklessly accepts an offer of marriage from the first person who asks. Before they can get married, however, she discovers how horrible of a mistake she has made, and in trying to escape the situation, she seriously injures herself. She is found by a neighboring laird, and an enemy to the MacLeods, Malcolm MacDonald. Having grown up in the lowlands, Malcolm doesn't look upon Marcail as his enemy, and he seeks to protect her from his vengeful clan. When she awakens with no knowledge of who she is, he hides the truth from her until she is well again. But love has a way of ruining the best laid plans, and Malcolm and Marcail soon find themselves in a star-crossed romance.
I can't say enough about how much I loved Marcail and Malcolm! They were both utterly relatable, and I wish their story continued in a sequel so that I could read more. Malcolm is a sweetheart, who has a quirky fear of the water that is too darn cute to be considered a weakness, and Marcail is the most patient of teachers. Even when injured, she showed such spirit and inherent goodness towards Malcolm's clan, and it was obvious how nice of a person she truly is. Neither were without flaws, but Lecia Cornwall made those flaws seem everyday and not so harsh as to cause dislike of either character. You will fall in love with both of them - I guarantee it!
I am so happy I was able to read this book early! I can't wait to read more books by Lecia. She has a gift for storytelling. If you haven't read her books before...what are you waiting for?
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Marcail MacLeod is not having an easy time finding love. When she discovers the man whom she thought was her true love in the arms of another woman, she recklessly accepts an offer of marriage from the first person who asks. Before they can get married, however, she discovers how horrible of a mistake she has made, and in trying to escape the situation, she seriously injures herself. She is found by a neighboring laird, and an enemy to the MacLeods, Malcolm MacDonald. Having grown up in the lowlands, Malcolm doesn't look upon Marcail as his enemy, and he seeks to protect her from his vengeful clan. When she awakens with no knowledge of who she is, he hides the truth from her until she is well again. But love has a way of ruining the best laid plans, and Malcolm and Marcail soon find themselves in a star-crossed romance.
I can't say enough about how much I loved Marcail and Malcolm! They were both utterly relatable, and I wish their story continued in a sequel so that I could read more. Malcolm is a sweetheart, who has a quirky fear of the water that is too darn cute to be considered a weakness, and Marcail is the most patient of teachers. Even when injured, she showed such spirit and inherent goodness towards Malcolm's clan, and it was obvious how nice of a person she truly is. Neither were without flaws, but Lecia Cornwall made those flaws seem everyday and not so harsh as to cause dislike of either character. You will fall in love with both of them - I guarantee it!
I am so happy I was able to read this book early! I can't wait to read more books by Lecia. She has a gift for storytelling. If you haven't read her books before...what are you waiting for?
**I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**