How To Marry A Highlander by Michele Sinclair ~ a Review

by MK French

Adanel Mackbaythe is trapped with her cruel family and finds her only respite in regular trysts with a man she refuses to learn the name of. All she knows is that he is from the opposing McTiernay clan, and hopes one day that it will be a means of escaping. When Dugan discovers her identity, he loses whatever faith he had in her. Their clans' rivalries deteriorate further, and the animosity between Adanel and Dugan is only matched by the passion and love they still have for each other.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

March 2019; Zebra; 978-1420138849
audio, ebook, print (352 pages); Scottish romance

How to Marry a Highlander is the eighth book in the McTiernay Brothers series, and I don't think I read any of the prior seven. Even so, I haven't lost any context by not reading the stories of other hardheaded McTierney men or their wives. In contrast to a lot of romance books written about the 1300's or later, the hero and heroine of the story start out with an illicit affair and don't even learn each others' names. Adanel's fiance had been murdered in front of her, so she has a good reason to avoid knowing anything about Dugan. Dugan is curious and assumes the worst when he discovers that Adanel is a Mackbaythe.

Intrigue between the clans continues to put the two of them in each others' paths, as well as a number of pranks from well-meaning friends who are certain the two remain in love despite the deep resentment and hurt they feel. They're not wrong, and the situations they deal with force Adanel and Dugan to compromise and help each other. There are arguments and some misunderstandings, but of course, they're eventually resolved; if anything, it still bothers me that Dugan never apologized for his believing the worst in Adanel and not coming to her defense when everyone accused her of treachery. We do end the book on a hopeful note, with more relationships than just theirs being repaired. It's a little pat to be resolved so quickly, but it doesn't downplay the fact that there is still a lot of work to be done, something that likely will be alluded to in future books of the series.

Buy How to Marry a Highlander at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and golden retriever. 

Get even more book news in your inbox, sign up today! Girl Who Reads is an Amazon advertising affiliate; a small commission is earned when purchases are made at Amazon using any Amazon links on this site. Thank you for supporting Girl Who Reads.