Wonderful and Heartbreaking at the same time. Highland Swan by Anna Markland in the 12 Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms and book 5 in The House Of Pendray series is so good I just couldn’t put it down. If the rest of this collection is half as good as Highland Swan than I just can’t wait to read it. This 1700 Jacobite rebellion against the English is so original and honest. Anna is truly one of the great authors of today. I was really emotional while reading this story and you know it’s great when you own emotions are at play. This story has a surgeon that just graduated, a caring uncle, a dying betrothed, running for their lives, a cruel father, kindness, guilt, amputation, reuniting with a son, doing all that you can to help someone and falling in love. So if you are wanting to go on an emotional rollercoaster ride I highly recommend you read this book.

***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
1 Candy Briggs731 12

It is a bit short but still packs a lot into this story. Dr. Ambrose Pendray has been in Edinborough. He is met by his Uncle Giles also a Doctor. There has been a battle up by Perth and he needs help with the wounded. Ambrose wants to just go home and see his family. But he decides to go with his Uncle.
Elea Calhoun is a lovely woman whose father has engaged her to the Provost's son. Evan will do the complete opposite of what his father wishes. He ends up in the Jacobite rebellion amongst thousands of warriors. She helps Ambrose do surgery and remove his gangrene arm. She is strong, intelligent, and brave. She loves listening to Ambrose talk about his work.
I loved the tale. It was exciting, romantic and you could tell they were drawing closer. The characters were amazing and selfless. Her dad is an opportunist and a drunk. Evan's parents don't approve of her and slight her in any way they can. Ambrose is fighting to keep Evan alive and boy, do I mean fight. It has steam but if you are old enough, it is a great book.
I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.1 Carole Burant1,210 33

Such a delightful read! Although the story takes place in the Highlands during the Jacobite uprising where danger abounds, there’s also a lightheartedness to the story which balances it off. When Ambrose and Eala meet, it’s love at first sight and each knows that they have finally found their soulmate. Nothing comes easy, though, and they must go through quite a lot before they can have their HEA.

Ambrose is a newly minted surgeon and when he’s asked to go to the Highlands to take care of the wounded, it’s under the understanding that he’s not there to take sides, his only role is to be a doctor. He falls hard for Eala when he meets her but there is a problem....she is betrothed to the man whose life Ambrose is trying to save! When they find themselves on the run from English soldiers, their hearts cannot deny what is between them but there’s a few twists and turns awaiting them!!

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.1 Denise riemer89 4

I received this ebook as a Arc from Anna Markland, for my honest opinion! This story is about Doctor Ambrose Pendray and Elea Calhoun, Ambrose has studied with his uncle Giles, Ambrose is in Edinburgh and his uncle who also is a Doctor is there to. His uncle needs help taking care of the men who had survived from a battle at Perth! Ambrose really wants to go home, but agreed to go and help!The battle was from the Jacobite rebellion in the 1700, Elea Calhoun is engaged to Evan who was in the battle, and Ambrose has to amputate Evan FM because of gangrene. Elea and Evan are to have a marriage of convenience, Elea father had set it up,he was not a good person.. During the story Ambrose and Elea find a strong love,I absolutely loved this ebook, it has character,History, Love ,a very good story line. Would I received this ebook as a Arc from Anna Markland, for my honest opinion! This story is about Doctor Ambrose Pendray and Elea Calhoun, Ambrose has studied with his uncle Giles, Ambrose is in Edinburgh and his uncle who also is a Doctor is there to. His uncle needs help taking care of the men who had survived from a battle at Perth! Ambrose really wants to go home, but agreed to go and help!The battle was from the Jacobite rebellion in the 1700, Elea Calhoun is engaged to Evan who was in the battle, and Ambrose has to amputate Evan FM because of gangrene. Elea and Evan are to have a marriage of convenience, Elea father had set it up,he was not a good person.. During the story Ambrose and Elea find a strong love,I absolutely loved this ebook, it has character,History, Love ,a very good story line. Would recommend this book ,gave it 5 stars held my attention through the story. this book ,gave it 5 stars held my attention through the story. as a Arc from Anna Markland, for my honest opinion! This story is about Doctor Ambrose Pendray and Elea Calhoun, Ambrose has studied with his uncle Giles, Ambrose is in Edinburgh and his uncle who also is a Doctor is there to. His uncle needs help taking care of the men who had survived from a battle at Perth! Ambrose really wants to go home, but agreed to go and help!The battle was from the Jacobite rebellion in the 1700, Elea Calhoun is engaged to Evan who was in the battle, and Ambrose has to amputate Evan FM because of gangrene. Elea and Evan are to have a marriage of convenience, Elea father had set it up,he was not a good person.. During the story Ambrose and Elea find a strong love,I absolutely loved this ebook, it has character,History, Love ,a very good story line. Would recommend this book ,gave it 5 stars held my attention through the story. Doctor Ambrose Pendray and Elea Calhoun, Ambrose has studied with his uncle Giles, Ambrose is in Edinburgh and his uncle who also is a Doctor is there to. His uncle needs help taking care of the men who had survived from a battle at Perth! Ambrose really wants to go home, but agreed to go and help!The battle was from the Jacobite rebellion in the 1700, Elea Calhoun is engaged to Evan who was in the battle, and Ambrose has to amputate Evan FM because of gangrene. Elea and Evan are to have a marriage of convenience, Elea father had set it up,he was not a good person.. During the story Ambrose and Elea find a strong love,I absolutely loved this ebook, it has character,History, Love ,a very good story line. Would recommend this book ,gave it 5 stars held my attention through the story. Barbee643 21

Highland Swan
By Anna Markland

Series: The House of Pendray, Book #4.5

Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars

Scotland, 1715

The heroine of this story is Eala Calhoun and her name means swan in Scottish Gaelic. The meaning of swan is grace, beauty, love, trust, and loyalty, in addition a pair of Swans are soulmates for life . Eala is betrothed to Evan Bruce, a man she does not love, nor does he love her only seeing her as someone to make babies and give him an heir. A life she does not want and definitely does not desire at all!

Ambrose has recently finished his studies and received his degree as he is officially a new physician, Dr. Ambrose Pendray.Ambrose had been looking forward to seeing his family for the Yuletide holidays. His mentor, his Uncle, Dr. Giles Raincourt meets up with him at Edinburgh university. Once he discovers Ambrose has finished his studies and is now officially a physician, he persuades Ambrose to join him in saving the Jacobite survivors-#who were suffering from their injuries from the war.

This is where and how Ambrose meets and falls in love with Eala Calhoun. Her Jacobite rebel fiancé is dying of gangrene in his arm but due to Ambrose’s ethics, morals and dedication as a Doctor he must amputate Evan Bruce’s arm. Even though he knows it will mean he will lose the woman who owns his heart forever. Read this emotional story that will definitely pull the readers heartstrings.

This lengthy novella was originally in the anthology 12 days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms collection. A wonderful read that will draw readers in immediately. It has all the elements historical romance reader love plus true Jacobite history. This is my favorite combination true history weaved with a fictional historical romance. A book I highly recommend.

Disclaimer: I received an advance readers copy through the author and publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and honest review and blog. All thoughts, words and ideas are my own. Joy528


SETTING: December 1715, Scotland, during the Jacobite uprisings. We find that Ambrose is the next generation of the Pendray family, which gives an anchor to the story, and helps place this book comfortably within the series. Ambrose Pendray is a newly minted doctor who is recruited by the very physician he hopes to emulate, to accompany him to the site of a recent battle to help him care for the wounded. Despite Ambrose’s insecurities over his untested skills, he agrees. The harsh existence on the moors of Scotland that Ambrose then finds himself tests all of his medical skills He must find within himself the strength to carry out necessary, but gruesome procedures. CRITIQUE: This is a close-up look at what the medical practices of the time could, and could not, do. We see the social class conflicts of the time as well as the political sensibilities of various factions of society. The abject poverty of those living on the land when compared to modern life makes one appreciate what we have. The storyline is well thought out, and the romance delicate in its innocence. (There is not a rush to the bed as is sometimes seen in historical romance, which I appreciated.) An enjoyable addition to the Pendray saga. Jan Goodard475 3

One of the best things about Anna Markland's is her grasp and use of history. No matter what country or time period the story takes place in, it is rich and accurate in the history of that era. Her books always follow several generations of families that are often intertwined with others. This story involves Dr. Ambrose Pendray, a talented physician who is "volunteered" by his adopted uncle and mentor, Dr. Giles Raincourt to treat Jacobite casualties from the battle of Sheriffmuir. One casualty in particular, Evan Bruce whose arm wound has turned putrid leaving him gravely ill. In caring for his patient, he meets Evan's betrothed, Eala Calhoun. When their eyes met both are instantly mesmerized by the other. Thus, their adventure begins. Although, Evan does not love Evan nor he her, she does not want him to die so she can follow her heart's desire. Ambrose is first and foremost, a physician, dedicated to saving life. He will do everything he can, even at the cost of his heart, to save Evan. I was cheering for these wonderful characters all the way through the tale as they faced each obstacle. This is an excellent, fast paced read. I read it in one sitting over several hours, I really did not want to put it down. I received this ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. Alison772 6

Highland Swan
The House of Pendray #4.5
Anna Markland
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Dr. Ambrose Pendray has agreed to travel into the Highlands to treat wounded Jacobite rebels. The rebel he's taken care of has an infection and need his arm amputated. His betrothed is Eala Calhoun, and he has an instant attraction to her, but knows he has a job to do.

Eala which is Gaelic for Swan has been forced into the betrothal. And she finds herself attracted to the Doctor in a way she has never felt before, but Ambrose she knows that this feeling can't go anywhere or can it?

Now Dr. Pendray must save his patient’s life, even though it means he will lose the woman he loves.

Anna Markland pens us a fantastic tale of love and how it can grow and flourish in the most unusual place. Ambrose was such a sweet man and he really fell hard and fast for Eala. Eala is a wonderful soul who had no choice in her who her husband would be. The coming together of these two lovely people warmed my heart which is something I was desperately in need of. I really enjoyed this book. Debbie Brown1,727 18

Dr. Ambrose Pendray decides to go and help his uncle to help with the wounded after a Jacobite war. There he finds a young man Evan Bruce fighting for his life after gangrene his set arm and it needs to be amputated. Miss Eala Calhoun goes to the infirmary to help nurse to the wounded especially her fiancé Evan who has been severely wounded, his only hope is the new doctor. Eala has mixed feeling for Evan, she knows they do not love one another, but she wants him to survive and live to have the love of a good wife so she agrees to help Ambrose in any way she can. She realizes if Evan lives she cannot be with the man she’s come to desperately love, Ambrose. An enchanting story of three people all got up in the horrors of war. Ambrose the doctor who sees and falls for the beautiful young Eala who’s engaged to another, Evan the wounded solider who??s will to live is diminishing and Eala whose torn between two men. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the excellent story of love, war and finding a love of a lifetime! Cindy26

Such a good story with non-stop action and intriguing, well-written characters, whose personalities just pop off the page. I’m not normally big on the insta-attraction storyline, but this one really worked. Ambrose and Ella worked well together, both literally and romantically. Their attraction was nicely written—even though Eala was betrothed to another, they felt the pull, but didn’t act on it. Additionally, Eala made a great physician’s assistant, as Ambrose was working on Evan’s wounds and trying to save his life. They both recognized saving his life continued her betrothal, his death would free her, but violate Ambrose’s vows as a doctor to heal. It was a masterfully written dilemma, wrapped around hiding from the British and surviving the bitterly cold weather. I couldn’t put this one down. I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my freely given, honest review. Carol251 3

1715 Scotland, a country torn with war and strife. Catholic at war with Protestant. Hanover at war with a so called English heir that had grown up  in France and did not know English well at all, and the Stuart's just wanted to retain rule of Scotland but were not strong enough to do so.
Highland Swan is Book 5 in the fascinating House of Pendray series. This family, these characters, this book so strong, so steadfast in their beliefs, one which is to marry for love, and be damned the consequence. Not only marry for love, but love at first sight and in the time of horrendous war.  Brilliantly written. It has all the things that pull at your heartstrings and make you laugh and tear up, have you chilled by the weather and heated by the passion.There are times you wish for life and for death, but most of all you wish for a happy ever after. Linda J.1,281 12

I do believe in love at first sight, but this one just didn't click with me. The h is betroth to a man she doesn't love. The H enters the picture as a doctor to take care of the wounded h's betroth. From the start they are lusting for each other, or close to it. No care for the man who may lose his life - little on guilt.

When decisions are made that favor the H/h does the h go to see her betroth to talk to him or ease his fears so he knows it isn't about his health - no. Little respect from the h/H.

The background story about them fearing for their lives and how an awful time it was made me feel I was there. This author does know how to pull her reader's into their drama.

Lovemaking, within marriage, heat level 3.75 out of 5.

No cheating, HEA, little on romance and some spice. (ljb) Sharon114 1 follower

Dr Ambrose Pendray has just graduated from Medical School and upon leaving he sees his uncle who is also a doctor. His uncle pleads with him to travel to the Highlands to help treat wounded Jacobites. His first case he has to amputate the arm of a young Highlander who has a marriage contract with Eala Calhoun, arranged by their fathers. Eala's father cares only about furthering his business not that the 2 young people love each other. Dr Ambrose is instantly drawn to her and will do everything possible to save the young Highland Rebel. This story has a wonderful storyline and is filled with great characters, who are well introduced and developed through the story. It has some unexpected twists and turns, and plenty of action and adventure! Once I got started reading it, I could not put it down! A very enjoyable read with a happily ever after ending. Petula2,796 75

Eala Calhoun is betrothed to a man she doesn't love,  but her father arranged it so she has no choice. Unfortunately in the latest battle her betrothed has been seriously injured. The redcoats are combing the countryside for any of the escaped rebels, so he must stay hidden. 

Ambrose Pendray has just qualified as a surgeon and is hoping to go home to celebrate with his family.  A family member who was his inspiration to become a doctor needs his help.  It's going to be more dangerous than expected. 

This is an exciting historical romance with fabulous characters and an unusual storyline. Our heroine never imagined she was capable of so much.  Our hero comes from a family you might have met before in other stories,  but you can easily read this on it's own.  

I loved it.   Lori D3,922 115

Ambrose Pendray has just graduated as a surgeon and just wanted to go home and celebrate the season. Instead he is coerced by his Uncle Giles, who inspired him to be a doctor, to help wounded Jacobite soldiers. Of course this can be a dangerous endeavor but he knows he needs to help.

His first patient though is in dire straights and being looked after by his betrothed, Eala Calhoun, a beautiful woman. Love at first sight? Yes, on both parts, because Eala is being forced by her father in the match.

Fortunately fate steps in and it seems love may be found when least expected! As usual, a fabulous short story by one of my favorite authors! Don't miss it!emotional historical-romance love-the-author1 Kathy1,090 3

Acela and Ambrose are drawn together from the start, however circumstances conspire to make their relationship difficult. Ms. Markland’s characters are a delight, the heroes are lusty, but gentlemen; the heroines are wantons (in the bedroom), but ladies. There is lots of Scottish history interwoven in this romantic tale that takes place under the most inhospitable conditions. Grab a cup of your favorite brew and settle in for a captivating read. Roslyn Stillman461 14

This was a lovely short story of love at first sight, the sadness that comes with being betrothed to someone else, and all set during the Jacobite uprising, leading to danger, misery and suspense. I thought the characters were well written and with the unusual setting made for a different read. There was some sex in this book which this reviewer skipped as usual but it didn’t affect my enjoyment of the book. I received this as an ARC and freely give my review. Christine Woinich2,395 21

In the middle of the religious wars in Scotland, two souls find each other. Ambrose answers the call to tend to wounded and found a young man dying. He did his best to treat him and then met the man's betrothed. Attraction developed as guilt builds, and imprisonment and death threaten. As life and death surround them, Eala and Ambrose find their way to happiness. I enjoyed the story and recommend it.

I received an ARC of this story, and this is my unsolicited review.arc Annette2,908 7

Wonderful characters in a precarious situation in dangerous times and yet they still manage to find true love. Their situation was a bit tricky and I love how the author worked that out. They're clearly soul mates. Very entertaining and enjoyable highland love story. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy. Ann L4,055 26

Dr Ambrose Pendry travels to the Highlands to treat Jacobite Rebels, he meets Eala Colhoun whose betrothed is injured. They have an attraction but he has his oath. Will the two be doomed to never fulfill their dreams or will fate step in.

Wonderful historical romance.

I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion reviewed Colleen Perry248 7

A Delightful Book

a very delightful but short Love Story. I loved the characters and story. It had intrigue, excitement, romance and a bit of sensuality. I highly recommend, as I do all of this author’s books. Anne Richardson1,273 2

I think anyone who loves historical romance will really enjoy this book by Anna Markland.
Maria Taylor718 3

A short but sweet story I would recommend this Patricia766 4 Read

Really good story. I enjoyed the background of the fight of the Jacobites, who in this story, had just lost a battle and were in hiding from the English. I received an ARC of this book. Judy27

Loved the story and characters. Can’t wait for the next book! Bonny Rambarran1,378 16

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