The Highlander's Stolen Bride: The Perfect Beach Read

Madeline Martin’s “The Highlander's Stolen Bride” (Highland Alliances Book 3) Whether it’s medieval Highlanders or World War I and II drama Madeline Martin is always an exceptional read! I am always excited when she has a new book out and this one does not disappoint. After being kidnapped by the new Laird, Calum Campbell, out of desperation to stop the warring between their clans and save his people from starving, the feisty lass, Elspeth MacMillan, filled with fighting anger at first, breaks down his defenses and these two fall in love. But what of her warring brother? Does Callum have a bargaining chip? Is there any hope for a love between these two to survive? There’s a wonderful chemistry and a blazing fire between these two that develops into a passionate love story. The buildup was perfect and the author has excellent timing as always. With so much bloodshed on both sides there doesn’t look like much chance for peace. When Elspeth starts to show compassion for the light of Callum and his clan their love story is inevitable. The characters are amazing and it’s so easy to feel for them and their situations. It’s clear to see the love between Elspeth and Callum and to root for them despite their circumstances. The tensions within this fantastic story are so palpable you could cut them with a knife. This is a fast paced, action packed, wonderful enemies to lovers tale with a well calculated and executed plot, a swoon worthy, noble and courageous hero, and an intelligent, perceptive heroine. The timing throughout the story is perfect and the author pulls you in from the start and holds you captivated until the end. Madeleine Martin does not disappoint! I loved the story, the characters and the authors writing is as always exceptional. While this book is definitely a standalone book, I must recommend the first to books in this exciting series by such amazing authors, Terri Brisbin and Jenni Fletcher. Ms. Martin did manage to wrap the series up beautifully, tying up any loose ends from previous books. I so often held my breath in anticipation and enjoyed it thoroughly! Thank you so much Ms. Martin for the beautiful story of love! You have once again transported me to the past with this splendid story.

The Highlander’s Stolen Bride by Madeline Martin, book three in the Highland Alliances series, is an enjoyable enemies-to-lovers story that I could not put down. Calum Campbell is desperate to establish peace and save his clan from the exile and starvation they are facing in Ireland. The most peaceful strategy he can think of is kidnapping Elspeth MacMillan in the hopes that he can hold her for ransom in exchange for a promise from her brother, the chieftain, to end the bloody feud between their clans. Calum is not surprised that Elspeth is spitting mad and uncooperative, but he definitely never bargained for was how quickly she makes a place for herself in his heart; unprepared for is her ability to break through the defenses of his heart. Elspeth is surprised at the difficulty she finds this clan in, wanting to help all she can. Also surprising to her was discovering that Calum was not at all the person the rumors said he was; he's a gentle soul wanting a non-violent solution, unlike his violent, destructive father. When the passion heats up between them, they both wonder if with their families at war if their dream of a peaceful, loving future can ever happen. Ms. Martin wrote an enemies-to-lovers story filled with distrust, respect, passion and romance that should not to be missed. She provided a tale rich with sizzling chemistry, clever banter, and secondary characters giving Elspeth and Calum a chance for peaceful, happy future together. I highly recommend The Highlander’s Stolen Bride to other readers. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

One of the best enemies-to-lovers books ever! When this story started and it became clear that Elspeth is going to be kidnapped by her sworn enemy, Calum, I admit, I was aghast. How can she fall for the guy who's been terrorizing her family for decades? However, my hat's off to the author for brilliantly showing us that the Calum we and Elspeth knew - mostly from rumors - is not at all who he really is. And kidnapping her is the only way he can prove that, a point with which we soon will agree. I loved how the author took the reader on the same journey as Elspeth in learning the truth about the Campbells and about Calum himself. Our hearts softened together as we recognized his honor and watched him struggle to save his clan. It's a rare book that gets me so emotionally invested, so immediately. I honestly could not put this book down, and I loved every bit of it. This is a fast-paced, action-packed romance, filled with all the drama from the previous two books and acting like a proper Act Three that ties up all the loose ends and brings a HEA to everyone involved. As a standalone it's a must-read, but I also highly recommend getting all three books and reading them together to get the entire fascinating story. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.