"fun historical fantasy romance"

In 1597 Highlander Sir Phillip Kilpatrick arrives at Atmore Manor in England to escort twenty-four years old Lady Isobel MacDonell home at the bequest of her sire to marry Earl Nicholas Lyon. Isobel was sent to England by her father when her mother was killed as a witch twelve years ago. Isobel and her two sisters are chips off the maternal block as witches too.

Isobel is attracted to her guide, but he tries to hide his feelings from her because he finds her desirable. As they trek to Scotland, they begin to fall in love, but he feels guilty for failing his long missing then six years old younger sister and fears he will fail likewise in protecting his beloved if he makes a move; she fears placing him jeopardy because witches are hung to death. On top of that there is the alliance her father is arranging through her upcoming marriage.

MY WICKED HIGHLANDER is a fun historical fantasy romance that bewitches the audience due to the lead couple; both in denial when it comes to loving one another. Isobel is a fabulous protagonist whose efforts to hide her skills fail as her hostess for a dozen years points out to the visiting Philip; while his "trauma" seems disconnected to his feelings towards Isobel. Fans of late sixteenth century romances with a paranormal twist will enjoy this fine tale and look forward to being further bewitched by Jen Holling two more times.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted May 20, 2005

Summary

With Scotland in the grip of a nationwide witch hunt, Isobel MacDonell is hiding in England. But when Sir Philip Kilpatrick arrives to escort her to her betrothed in the Highlands, Isobel must face a harrowing journey through a land of fear and suspicion. Soon, however, Philip grows reluctant to deliver Isobel to the noble intended she has never met. Isobel has charmed her way into his heart...and yet her determination to use her magic to solve the dark mystery of Philip's tortured past could destroy them both.