Review: Lovely highland romance
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 08 5, 2013
Highland Seer is the second book in Willa Blair's Highland Talents series. I did not read the first book, and although characters from the first book make a guest appearance, I did not feel at any time that the first book was mandatory reading in order to understand this one.The story begins with the arrival of several Lathan clan members at the MacKyrie holding. Imagine their surprise when they learn that the present Laird, Ellie MacKyrie, is a woman and seer. The Lathan warriors seek to instate a peace treaty among key clans and they need Ellie's signature. They quickly surmise that although her clan possesses wealth in the shape of whiskey and valuable land, they sorely lack able-bodied soldiers to protect them since most died in battle. They realize the MacKyrie clan needs them while a rival Laird is set on making trouble by refusing to acknowledge Ellie's rejection.During the treaty negotiations with the Lathan group, Ellie meets the man who has haunted her visions, Donal MacNabb. Ellie is immediately taken by this hardened warrior and requests that he stay and help her clan by training her inexperienced, young soldiers. Donal's sense of honour and conflicting feelings make him refuse her offer, even when Ellie wishes to offer him much more.Ellie is a very strong character. She makes her feelings and objectives known from the start and Donal doesn't stand a chance. She is a beloved leader and bravely faces the handicap of being a female Laird in a world ruled by male physical strength. Donal is forced to recognize his love for Ellie while he battles to protect her and her clan. He is loyal as well as strong, and he respects her as chief. He wants her, but he feels he's not good enough for her, that she deserves better. I loved how Donal faced his insecurities and finally accepted his worth as Ellie's mate.Their love story develops slowly, in a physical setting that I felt was both romantic and rough. The descriptions transported me to the highlands. I liked that Ellie went after what she wanted; it was refreshing to depart from the typical timid maiden and meet a heroine who is both wise and mature. Ellie doesn't have too many visions throughout the book, and her gift as seer is sorely downplayed. The ending was a bit rushed, but it was also heart-warming. We do get a lovely HEA and I am left wondering who the next book will be about...ARC received from Willa Blair in exchange for an honest review