Highland Jewel

Highland Jewel by May McGoldrick Royal Highlander 2 A mother’s promise should never be broken...even if it takes over two decades to keep. No matter how hard Caroline tried to get back to see her son – she was thwarted – until this book allowed it to finally happen. This book begins with a promise made by a soon-to-be-queen to a son she had before the marriage. Her intentions are good but political intrigue keeps her away. She will find someone to help her bring this about and that man is a man of honor, soldier and so much more! In this book we have Maisie Murray and Niall Campbell meeting when he saves her from the sword of a soldier in the midst of a rally the soldiers are to break up. Maisie and Fiona, Niall’s sister, are active in a reform group working to improve the situation of those oppressed by the English. The times are dangerous with spies and informers working against those who are activists. In spite of the tense situation Maisie and Niall eventually come to an understanding but of course, something throws a wrench in their happily ever after...at least for awhile. This book has some overlapping time with book one in the series and has a number of the same characters in both books. It is not essential to read book one to understand this book but I really did enjoy Highland Crown and highly recommend it, too. This book has murder, mayhem, intrigue, history, love, loss and a whole lot more. The history is there but not the main part of the story...though history impacts more than one person in this book in big ways. What I liked: * Maisie’s strength of character and willingness to work for what she believes is right * Niall’s commitment to family and to what he believes is right. * The romance between Maisie and Niall * The closeness that develops between Isabella, Maisie and Morrigan * Learning how people reacted when Maisie’s true self is revealed * The bad guys getting caught * Caroline being able to keep the promise she made to her son * Wondering who will have their story next...Morrigan or perhaps Fiona or maybe someone else. What I didn’t like: * The bad guys… * The way people in power use power for their own gain (I do wish this would change but it never does) * Having the book end Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Paperbacks for the ARC – This is my honest review. 5 Stars

* = I liked it. Overall an interesting story woven around the political fight between George IV and his estranged wife, Queen Caroline, but not quite as engaging as Highland Crown. The prologue describes a scene which occurs about 60% into the book; it's like a mega-spoiler and I dislike that. I found the first half, which takes place in Edinburgh starting with the political gathering at Grassmarket, much more suspenseful than the rest. Very suitable reading at the 200-year anniversary of the Peterloo Massacre in Manchester, which is referenced in the story. The political unrest, and underlying threat of government reprisal Maisie subjects herself to, create suspense and tension. Then there is the mini-courtship between Niall and Maisie in the tea shop. The latter half I found a bit deflating and rushed; here the main characters are in the realm of the Mackintosh clan (after the prologue's scene) and there is much less suspense. Kind of sleepy, but with a nice surprise at the end. I'm interested in reading how this trilogy ends. I'm interested in reading how this trilogy ends. I received an advance copy via netgalley; the above thoughts and opinions are my own.

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.