The Highlander's Christmas Bride

Logan Kendrick and Donella Haddon had each been at the center of a family tragedy in the past. Their story is compelling, entertaining and often humorous as they attempt to move beyond the mistakes, and just maybe find a future together. Logan and Donella are strong, stubborn, independent, and occasionally confused. These seem to be common Highland traits. At times, their romance seems to take one step forward, and two steps back, but they are not without help. Our hero and heroine are surrounded and supported by a wonderful cast of characters – brothers, sisters, and cousins just as stubborn as they are. I absolutely love Grandda Angus and Logan’s son Joseph. The Highlander’s Christmas Bride is part of the Clan Kendrick series, but works just fine as a standalone. I really enjoyed it and look forward to more. I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. My Review is voluntary.

The Highlander’s Christmas Bride by Vanessa Kelly Clan Kendrick #2 Donella Haddon has spent three years in a convent when she is told that she must leave because she is not a good fit for being a nun. Logan Kendrick shows up to take her to her home as requested by her grandfather but the trip is fraught with danger due to a kidnapping attempt. The two grow to know one another as they travel though neither is interested in marriage. There are ups and downs occur during the story with both of their families and Logan’s young son all hoping the two will end up together. Well, all but one or two old flames from their past who hope they might rekindle what was left behind years before. There is a HEA for the couple after balls, walks, talks and more. I have to say that I had trouble warming up to the couple and seeing them as truly “in love” with one another. I felt more that Logan was, at least at first, more interested in Donella as a potential mother for his child than wanting her as a wife for himself and Donellla, though she did feel attraction, was always down on herself, thinking about joining a convent and more interested in Logan as a way out than as the man she wanted forever. The story was a bit predictable and at times I wondered if I had missed significant stories about Logan in Canada and other couples that no doubt had starred in books off their own. Did I enjoy this book? For the most part Would I read more in this series? I believe I would Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Coporation – Zebra Books for the ARC – This is my honest review. 3-4 Stars

After three years in a convent and a few months shy of taking her final vows, Donella Haddon was dismissed and told to go home to Blairgal Castle. Logan Kendrick started a shipping and trading company while in Canada, and he hopes to do business with Donella's great-uncle, the Earl of Riddick. So when the earl asked him to escort Donella as a favour, Logan could hardly refuse. It's only a two-day journey, or it should have been, had they not met with villains along the way determined to kidnap Donella. THE HIGHLANDER'S CHRISTMAS BRIDE is such a fun book, filled with adventures, romance, and fabulous characters! Donella is a splendid heroine: she's so vital, energetic, and protective. Donella was definitely not a good fit for the convent, even though she tried so very hard. She's proper and dignified, but certainly not meek; when the chips are down, she's someone you want on your side, and she fit right in with the Kendricks. I loved that, however defiant she was, she was not reckless. She is made of stern stuff, she felt like a real person, and so does Logan. He is a giant of a man, playfully flirty without coming on too strong; he is charming and understanding, but not always the best at expressing himself. Both Logan and Donella are extremely engaging characters, she knows she can be difficult and acknowledges the fact, and Logan actually finds it amusing. The romance progressed gradually, starting with Logan and Donella's laborious trek home. This is so beautifully done, as Vanessa Kelly takes us on a little tour of the Scottish countryside, and her wonderful descriptions made me long to be there. It didn't feel like a travelogue, but like a special treat to share with friends. Logan and Donella's road to a happily ever after is not the easiest, with the boisterous Kendricks and old clan feuds, but it is a very pleasant and entertaining one. I think it's a question of balance: the dangers are believable; the characters are not perfect and feel entirely genuine, and no one is perpetually blinded by raging lust; they act like rational people! I adored Logan's grandfather Angus, and little Joseph, Logan's six year-old son. Ms. Kelly's prose flows effortlessly, and the dialogues are positively brilliant; I caught myself giggling at some heated exchanges. I will never forget the passage with the pigeons; it's priceless! And I'm so grateful that Vanessa Kelly remembers Scotland's strong connection to Canada. THE HIGHLANDER'S CHRISTMAS BRIDE is a delightful holiday romance, but the Christmassy atmosphere is not so overwhelming that the story can be enjoyed any time of the year. Happy reading!