29 November 2007

5 Star Review for A Restless Knight from Merrimon Books


Transfixing medieval romance: a love both sensuous and mystical in its emotional depth

~~~Merrimon Crawford, medieval scholar and romance reader

From the moment Julian, Dragon of Challon, crosses into the Scottish Highlands, ancient visions and present Medieval beauty unite in the handsome body of this one dark powerful warrior. King Edward Longshanks means to use this man in a bid to conquer Glenrogha but Tamlyn MacShane is not a woman to be easily manipulated. Then again, Julian's hot warrior blood relishes the challenge of this feisty woman, not afraid to speak her mind. Does she ever speak her mind --- with power, wisdom and humor all combined in one! As leader of her clan, however, any action against him might endanger her people and plunge them into war.

Julian is weary from the horrors he has seen in war. His very soul is enveloped in darkness. Can Tamlyn, with her gift of kenning (knowing or sight) and the blood of Sidhe inside, reach a place deep in this knight's heart and bring him home? Can Tamlyn remain faithful both to her clan and her heart? Can these two hearts find tenderness and love in a world torn by the strife of war? Can the political maneuvers of those remote from Glenrogha destroy the special haven created by their growing love?

Reading Deborah MacGillivray's A RESTLESS KNIGHT feels like coming home to this medieval enthusiast. The pure language alone, the rhythm and the imagery, intoxicates with its beauty and medieval vocabulary. A special kudo for the palfrey horses! The sensuous detail of her landscape and characterization evokes the Medieval world as if it were present to hear, see, smell, taste and touch. The emotional depth of this romance creates a love that is both sensual and mystical. Paranormal elements mix with historical authenticity, creating a fictional world that honors the full scope of the medieval literary traditions.

In Tamlyn and Julian, Deborah MacGillivray creates a medieval legend that is uniquely her own yet hearkens back to the great legends of old with just the perfect echo to delight any medieval enthusiast. If I didn't know better, I would be tempted to search the news of Medieval scholarship to discover whether a new Scottish manuscript was discovered hidden in the spine of a book in a remote library. And yet I do know better, because Deborah MacGillivray's romance is more than a beautiful medieval tale.

A RESTLESS KNIGHT is every woman medievalist's fantasy find --- the longed-for but until now unwritten romance story one had hoped to discover within or behind a Medieval text. The richness, intensity and depth of Deborah MacGillivray's writing transfixes the reader. A RESTLESS KNIGHT is quite simply a mystical reading experience for this medievalist.

Also recommended: In Her Bed by Deborah MacGillivray

5 Star Review for A Restless Knight


Single Titles.com Reviews' Choice Award Winner 2006
RIO Award Winner - Best Debut Novel 2006
Laurie Award Winner

More Than Magic Winner
Best Debut P.E.A.R.L. Award Nominee
CAPA Finalist

*****A terrific combination of love, history and destiny, rolled into an exquisite and exciting read.

The responsibility of any fiction writer who puts pen to paper (or fingers to a computer keyboard) is simple: To take care of the reader. With her historical romance A Restless Knight, writer Deborah MacGillivray not only lives up to her responsibility to take care of her readers -- she goes above and beyond it. The restless knight in question is one Julian Challon, the Black Dragon, and reluctant henchman to his liege lord, Edward Plantagenet, King of England. Edward, known as 'Hammer of the Scots,' used almost any means to crush what he considered the unruly Scots from outright warfare and destruction to subtle infiltration. Through his 'wed-and-bred' campaign, Edward commanded his English leaders to impregnate and marry Scottish women so their offspring could automatically hold Scots land. Under English law, property ownership was transferred through the father.

Using this historic and brutal time as a backdrop, MacGillivray creates a wonderful love story, finding the perfect feminine foil for her tortured, dark-haired hero -- Lady Tamlyn McShane, holder of Glenrohga in the Scottish highlands. While Tamlyn is shaken to the roots of her fiery hair by the sensuality of her dark, powerful knight and captor, Julian is shaken too. Tamlyn confounds him -- he's never met anyone like her before. For one thing, women don't hold power, title or lands where he comes from. Nonetheless, his attraction to her pagan wildness and strength is instantaneous.

Meanwhile, Tamlyn's reluctant compulsion into Julian's arms leads to love scenes hot enough to melt snow off the Scottish tors. But more is at work here than a roll in the hay between two strong-willed individuals. Deathly tired of battle, and grieving over the untimely death of his brother at the massacre of Berwick (one of Edward's bloodier battles in Scotland), Julian wants peace in his life, and a mate to share it with, rather than a vessel for his children. He believes his coming to Glenrohga is fate and Tamlyn, through her own 'kenning,' or psychic foreknowledge, ultimately realizes it, too. Don't be fooled into thinking that everything is wrapped up neatly once these two get together, though.

Throughout the book, MacGillivray continually springs surprises to the very last page. Nor is there a clean-cut ending MacGillivray leaves enough loose ends to direct readers to the sequel, Ravenhawke, scheduled for release in August 2007. A plot that skillfully weaves history with fiction, combined with an unforgettable hero and heroine ensure that anyone reading A Restless Knight is in for a rare and touching experience. Well done, Deborah MacGillivray, and thank you.

~~Amy Wolff Sorter, author, Servant of the Gods

Barnes and Noble Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk

5 Star Review for The Invasion of Falgannon Isle




Falgannon Isle is in the grips of an ancient curse placed on it by Sgathach Bnanand, Skye's Warrior Queen who cursed the isle while in a jealous rage after her lover left her with another woman and escaped into the shrouding mist of Falgannon. It states that only if the Lady of the Isle mates with an Outlander who has black hair, green eyes and is of Irish descent will any of the island's male population find true and lasting love. This curse would last for three generations. B.A. Montgomerie is on a mission to entice women to visit Falgannon Isle and hopefully fall in love with one of the two hundred thirteen single Scotsmen who currently live there. As the `Lady of the Isle' the men folk consider her off limits.


B.A. had once been married, but her husband hadn't met all the conditions to break the curse - his eyes hadn't been green. Two years after their marriage, his plane went down in the North Atlantic leaving B.A. a widow. At the age of thirty-seven, B.A. would like to find love again, but first she plans to make sure that the men have every chance possible to find a mate. To aid in that purpose B.A. has set up a website which she hopes women will find intriguing enough to give the island and her braw lads a chance.


Desmond Mershan invades Falgannon with an agenda of his own. He's been plotting for years to enact vengeance for injustices that had been done to his family in the past. While B.A. immediately senses that Desmond is deceiving her somehow, the other residents of the isle view him as the answer to the curse. He's got all the traits needed to fulfill the terms of the curse and ensure all of their happiness, if only B.A. would admit that she has feelings for him. There's no doubt that he's arrived on the isle to pillage and loot, but she has a bad feeling it's not her that he's after.


With an island full of men desiring female companionship, B.A.'s website is the perfect way to attract women to the isle. It's set up as a dating service complete with profiles and an application. The men are able to select the women who interest them from the ones who apply. Of course, now that Desmond has invaded their island, the men are even more hopeful that this plan to bring women to the isle will work. After all, if their lady is finally mated to the man who will finally break the curse than their chances of finding love will be drastically increased. Will they be able to convince Desmond and B.A. to overlook their distrust of each other?


Deborah MacGillivray's THE INVASION OF FALGANNON ISLE is a delightful mixture of contemporary setting with historical Scottish brogues and mannerisms. There's even a little bit of kilt action here and there. I love the idea of this tiny isle somewhere that has the basics of modern conveniences but for the most part untouched by greed and mistrust that is so prevalent in today's society. Everyone on the isle has a descriptive tag added to their name in a bid to keep their identities straight. This is a book that I just know readers are going to love. Every single character has endearing characteristics that will endear them to you. You'll find yourself engrossed in the story and laughing at the antics of the Islanders, especially those of `The Cat Dudley' who has a personality all his own. Desmond and B.A. make a perfect couple, even though they do have obstacles to overcome. There's no doubt that if there is a curse their union will be it's undoing.


This is the first book in Ms MacGillivray's SEVEN SISTERS OF COLFORD HALL series. I'll be anxiously awaiting the next book in this series: RIDING THE THUNDER which will contains B.A.'s sister Asha and Desmond's brother Jago's story.


Also recommended: Riding the Thunder, In Her Bed, A Restless Knight
~ C. Dionne, Romance Junkies

28 November 2007

Cat Wars!!




Though I am sure he will sell more than me in the long run,
it's still fun to see this! (P.S. I had the title first!!)



Cat O'Nine Tales [SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION] (Paperback)
by
Deborah Macgillivray (Author), Monika Wolmarans (Editor)

Amazon.com Sales Rank: #33,176 in Books (See
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Cat O'Nine Tales: And Other Stories (Hardcover)by
Jeffrey Archer (Author)

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27 November 2007

Cata-Romance reivew of Cat O'Nine Tales





Genre: See Review
ISBN: 0978713907
Page Count: 274
Price: $12.49
Reviewer: Donna Zapf

Sensuality Rating: SensuousStar
Rating: 4.5 Stars

Author's Website: http://www.deborahmacgillivray.co.uk/

CAT O’NINE TALES is a special anthology edition of nine delicious award winning stories of romance and the kitty cats that help it along!

Bad Cat
Katlyn and her part Scottish wildcat live on the beach in Destin, Florida next door to hunky Ian Giles. Katlyn conspires with Auggie to lure Ian over with his bad cat behavior. But Ian needs no excuse to be seduced by the lovely Katlyn since seduction is on his mind as well.

Getting It in the End
Romance writer Catlynne Falconer and her half Scottish wildcat Jack attend the Writers Renfaire in York, England. There they run into the one man Catlynne hates, book reviewer James Douglas Kinloch. He has bad mouthed every one of Catlynne’s books and despite their physical attraction she only wants to distance herself from him. The rub is James has Jack and he will not give him up without confronting Catlynne and what a confrontation it is!


Double, Double, Toil & Trouble
This is a contemporary tale with paranormal elements. Observed by their ghostly grandparents, Gillian Grant and Cian Mackinnon both lay claims to the Castle Dunnascaul but Cian was given the castle by his grandfather and the outlying cottage was given to Gillian. Gillian feels loyalty to her family and the legendary treasure to be found at the castle, even though she loves Cian, and so stubbornly continues the Grant vs Mackinnon feud. Cian is besotted by Gillian and tries to convince her to forget the feud and come, with her cat Basil, to live with him in Dunnascaul. Could love be the real treasure?


Rider in the Storm
Seven years ago to the night, Ciara MacIan lost her fiancĂ©e in a tragic car accident. After a goodbye visit to Derek’s grave, vowing to go on with her life, Ciara rounds the very curve in the road where he was killed and sees another red car in trouble. A strange man flags her down and Ciara takes him to her home as the weather rages. Strangely she is not afraid and as the night progresses she and her cat Sinnjinn feel as though this man is someone they both know. Who is this man and will he be the one to help Ciara love again?

Devil in Spurs
A historical tale during the days of highway men and the ton, Devil in Spurs is also known as Desdein Deshaunt, otherwise known as the Marquis de Fournier, a nobleman by day and highway man by night. Desdein’s brother has been mistakenly arrested as the Devil in Spurs and Desdein must find a way to save him. He decides to kidnap his enemy’s daughter, the man that shot Desdein’s father, and exchange her for his brother’s freedom. As it turns out, Lady Ashlyn Findlater is a lonely young lady loved only by her aging cat Cyril. Ashlyn captures Desdein’s heart but has little value to her father. As this emotional story reaches its climax, nothing is as it seems.

All I Want for Christmas is a Hula-Hoop and a Mother
This is a precocious Christmas story that will have you grinning ear to ear. Five year old Allison contrives to bring her father and her ballet teacher, Leslie, together to make her Christmas wish come true. All she wants is a kitty, a pony, a hula-hoop and a mother. As a blizzard descends, Keon Challenger and daughter Allison drive Leslie and her cat Alvin home so she can take care of her pony and are promptly snowed in for Christmas. Do Christmas wishes really come true?

Blue Christmas Cat
Dara Seaforth is alone on Christmas, her beloved kitty Dexter has “crossed the rainbow bridge” and she has never found a love to replace her childhood crush, Rhys St. John. After fifteen years away, Rhys has returned to his home in hopes to find Dara and claim the love that family obligations denied him so many years ago. But Rhys hesitates and only the search for his wayward cat Elvis brings him to Dara’s door. Will the magic of Christmas and Elvis help the two to find their fated love?

Chicken What Du Hell
Catonia Flemy confronts Remy and his naughty cat Bubba again with evidence in hand, a snake brought to her by an adoring Bubba. Remy Kinross wants Catonia and puts on his Cajun personality to woo her. It works until Catonia finds out from a tabloid that Remy really is Royce Kinross, Marquis of Dunmoor and Seafeld, and that he has lied to her. It takes some fast talking and more snakes to convince her that Remy and Bubba are genuine. This is a witty tale guaranteed to keep you laughing.

A Very Special Man
Desdemona “Dezzy” Vashon confides to her cat Simon that all she wants is a special man to love her. Simon wants that too. He is a man trapped in a cat body for hundreds of years. He loves Dezzy and knows she is the one to break his curse if only he can convince her.

A purrrfect read for romance and cat lovers alike; CAT O’NINE TALES by award winning Deborah MacGillivray has something for everyone. From contemporary to historical and paranormal to comedy these stories will delight and entertain with amazing characters, unique plots and varied settings. Ms. MacGillivray showcases her signature razor-sharp style in this special collection that must be read and read again.

Written by - Visit Website

25 November 2007

5 Star Review for In Her Bed



*****The Perfect Augmentation!!!, November 24, 2007
By A. Will (Ft. Campbell, KY USA)


"In Her Bed" by Deborah MacGillivray

So often I've read books that have secondary characters in them that I've wondered what was going on with them while the main story was taking place. Where did they go when they disappeared? What happened to them? Who were they with? Deborah MacGillivray has such a talent for bringing to life these secondary characters by giving them their own storylines and their own books!

For those who haven't read "A Restless Knight", I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading this first before you read "In Her Bed." These two books are linked not just by the characters, but they take place at the same time. "A Restless Knight" slightly precedes "In Her Bed." This is why it is important for you to read "A Restless Knight" first.

Damien St. Giles, Lord Ravenhawke, thinks he's in love with his cousin's bride and it is tormenting him to watch the two of them together. Although he is happy for them, he can't shake the pain his heart feels for the woman he thinks he's been seeing in his dreams for years.

Aithinne Ogilvie is in desperate need of securing her future and the future of her people. She needs to be with child and sends her three brothers and servant to find her a man who will serve that purpose. Unknown to her, they bring her the cousin to the infamous Black Dragon of Challon, who is her cousin Tamlyn's new husband!

(Taking a deep breath...LOL)

On the night of the Beltane celebration, Damien finds himself drugged and chained to the bed of Aithinne Ogilvie. In his altered state of mind, he thinks it is Tamlyn who he makes love to; he has no clue it is her cousin who has captured him.

Aithinne is devastated when Damien calls her by her cousin's name. She had already fallen in love with this man who she bedded and had made passionate love to. Heartbroken, she gives him a potion that will make him forget her and their time together. (by this part of the book, I was in tears!!!!)

When Lord Ravenhawke and his cousin come to lay claim to Aithinne and all her holdings, Damien is drawn to this woman who resembles Tamlyn.
Damien can't ignore the fact that his body, heart, and soul desire Aithinne more than he understands or cares to admit. He craves this woman who feels she is a poor comparison to her beautiful, perfect cousin.

My heart ached for Aithinne and I cried, ok, sobbed at her anguish that she may never have the love of Damien the way Tamlyn and Julian love.

"In Her Bed" completely augments "A Restless Knight" but holds its own story well.

My heart was captured by the love story between Damien and Aithinne! There was so much passion and desire between these two people who have lived their lives in the shadows of their cousins.

Once again, I give my highest rating of * * * * * stars to another of Deborah MacGilllivray's books!

I cannot wait until the next book in "The Dragons of Challon" series and have found myself yet again in love with another Dragon!

Hugs and kisses and happy reading!
Annie

19 November 2007

Winners of Name that Cat Contest


Clint The Cat wants to thank everyone that entered The Name that Cat contest for
Riding The Thunder!



He says to tell you the winners are>>>>

Sanjay Srinivas
Jessica Todd
Angie Thompson
Cherinda Wendt
Maria Gross

Congrats to the Winners!!

CK2s Kwips and Kritiques review of Riding the Thunder



Superb, absolutely superb!, November 19, 2007
By
Deborah Wiley (Winter Haven, FL)


True love can survive anything....


Jago Mershan knows the value of love; it's the reason he's willing to continue with the revenge plan his brother is insisting on. Of course, Jago didn't expect to fall for Asha Montgomerie, one of the women his brother's plan will destroy. Asha doesn't trust Jago initially as he identifies himself as Jago Fitzgerald, the representative for the developer Trident Ventures. Asha doesn't intend to sell her restaurant no matter how much money is offered! After all, the ghostly inhabitants of Tommy and Laura won't allow any changes to The Windmill. Will Jago and Asha find true love even as their differences separate them?


I think this may be my favorite book yet by Deborah MacGillivray. Considering I have enjoyed each and every one to date, that is saying quite a bit! RIDING THE THUNDER is the sequel to INVASION OF FALGANNON ISLE although the events are happening almost simultaneously in both books. Regardless as to whether you've read the first book, RIDING THE THUNDER is easily understood and enjoyed.


Deborah MacGillivray creates characters who are so vivid that one believes they must be real. Even her secondary characters are phenomenal. Who can't help but love Oo-it? Asha and Jago practically spring to life off the pages as the reader is drawn into their beautiful, almost breathtaking love story.


Deborah MacGillivray reaches into the hearts of her characters and captures each emotion so poignantly. Her exquisite use of language is unparalleled as she is an author clearly at the top of her game. RIDING THE THUNDER is a story that take you through the entire gamut of emotions as you will laugh, cry, scream, and cheer for joy.

Atmosphere is critical to the success of RIDING THE THUNDER, and Deborah MacGillivray delivers exactly what is needed. The ambiance of The Windmill is perfect for the ghostly apparitions of Tommy and Laura. The added touch of the seemingly haunted Wurlitzer jukebox is sheer genius.

RIDING THE THUNDER showcases the superb writing skills of Deborah MacGillivray. No matter what story or time period, Ms. MacGillivray thoroughly enchants her readers with her delightful tales. RIDING THE THUNDER is highly recommended!

COURTESY OF CK2S KWIPS AND KRITIQUES

17 November 2007

Review for Love Under The Mistletoe







Love Under the Mistletoe Anthology
Contemporary, Paranormal and Historical Romances
Authors: Deborah Macgillivray, Leanne Burroughs,
Amy Blizzard, Gerri Bowen, Billie Warren Chai and
Judith Light
Available from Highland Press
ISBN: 978-0-9800356-2-9
November 2007




First in this book is the story entitled Forever Love. This is a historical work concerning a man named Hank Beaumont, his horse Stripper, and his rescuing a woman kidnapped after her stage was robbed. Her “husband” was killed. Do you believe in ghosts?


It Must Have Been The Mistletoe told of Kacey Michaels who moved to Mistletoe, Tennessee, and Nicholas Klaus, a widower with eight children, who owned a toy store. This tale will make you question magic and whether or not mistletoe has magical powers.

Building gingerbread houses has been a long-standing tradition at Christmastime. Gingerbread and Mistletoe brought together a competition, with Matt Watson from Hoosier Bakery and an unlikely partner, Riley Callahan, trying to win a $2,000 prize. What can you substitute for mistletoe?

If you like stories about expectant mothers you will love Calling Hailey’s Bluff. Hailey, a computer program specialist, was called cross country to work on a program for Johnson Space Center. Her baby’s father, Lt Col Todd Coopersmith, was stationed there. This novella gives new meaning to surprise delivery.


A little bit mystical, along with ‘wild blood,’ slanted this book from its basic historical genre. Melody had loved Trevor Wilde, Earl of Ardmoor, for over ten years. He did not love her. A Chorus Singing Love by Gerri Bowen addressed the question of true soul mates.


Finally, A Very Special Man, written by Deborah MacGillivray, spanned three centuries with Simon, a big black cat, and Desdemona Vashon (Dezzy) and a spell begging to be broken to assure true love.This anthology is available at the perfect time of the year -— Christmas. We love the holiday season and now we have another reason to add to our list. Love Under the Mistletoe is a six-author 

anthology which has something to offer anyone who loves to read. Whatever your genre, you’ll find a novella which addresses your desires.

The varied stories were great reads and the characters were well thought out and likeable. They worked well together as stories with good background information and wonderful endings. I recommend this book to everyone. You won’t be sorry.


Reviewer: Brenda Talley
November 16, 2007
The Romance Studio

15 November 2007

17 months and still selling as strong as ever




A Restless Knight in it's second printing for Kensington Books

A Restless Knight (Zebra Debut) by Deborah MacGillivray

mass market paper: Kensington Publishing Corporation;
July 6, 2006; $3.99
ISBN: 0821780360
ISBN-13: 9780821780367

Book Description

~ A Defiant Lady ~
In Scotland's darkest hour, an English warrior dressed all in black has come for her. Blessed with the kenning, Lady Tamlyn MacShane foresaw this day, when the ruthless Lord Julian Challon would conquer her land -- and her heart. She is determined to resist him...but she is no match for his strength...or his sensuality...
~ A Resolute Lord ~

To Julian, the proud Scotswoman should be nothing more than a captive. Yet Tamlyn's fiery Beauty ensnares him, body and soul. Now, the warrior known as the Black Dragon is in danger of falling under the spell that cannot be broken---the spell of love....

To order: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0821780360



http://DeborahMacGillivray.co.uk


A Restless Knight , Kensington - July 2006, CATA-Romance Reviews' Choice Award Winner, a Laurie Wiiner, Best Debut P.E.A.R.L. Nominee, CAPA Finalist Best Historical; a More than Magic Winner for Best Historical; RIO Award of Excellence Winner Best Debut

12 November 2007

Coffeetime Romance Review of Cat O ' Nine Tales



CAT O’NINE TALES
DEBORAH MACGILLIVRAY
ISBN# 978-0978713904
October 2007
Highland Press
PO Box 2292, High Springs, Florida 32655
Trade Paperback
$12.49
274 Pages
Romance Anthology

Rating: 5 cups


Bad Cat

Katlyn MacKenzie only recently moved into her Aunt’s beachfront property in Destin, Florida. Her part Scottish wildcat Auggie Moggie has every animal within a ten block radius terrified, and a few people too. However, he does not terrify her sexy neighbor.

Ian St. Giles is a writer, and a transplant from Britain. He is very attracted to Katlyn, and uses every excuse he can to see her, including her cat Auggie.

When Auggie steals Ian’s steak dinner before he can make it, and gobbles it, it is the last straw for Ian. Will Ian be able to use Auggie’s antics to his advantage, or will his very real irritation with the cat lose him Katlyn?

Bad Cat is hilarious and one of my favorite stories in this anthology. The attraction between Ian and Katlyn is explosive. You will not want to miss this one!

Getting it in the End

Catlynne Falconer is a romance novelist. Her cat Jack is half Scottish wildcat, and huge. She based one of her heroes, a man turned into a cat by a powerful witch, on him. Because of this she brings Jack with her to the Writers Renfaire in York, England. She does not figure on meeting her arch enemy.

James Douglas Kinloch pens a monthly column on books for Money & Trends Magazine. He takes to Catlynne right away when he sees her sexy self. However, he does not know who she really is.

When James gets tangled in Jack’s leash and crashes to the ground, he meets Catlynne for the first time. The attraction is mutual until he introduces himself and Catlynne realizes just who he is; the book reviewer who has trashed every one of her romance novels and caused her sales to drop. Will Catlynne be able to get past what James has done, or will she accept their mutual attraction?

Like Bad Cat, Getting It In the End is highly entertaining. Jack cracked me up with how he takes to James right away when he normally does not take to anyone but Catlynne. I also loved Catlynne’s reaction once she finds out who James is. The attraction is sizzling and very much worth reading.

Double, Double, Toil & Trouble

Gillian Grant has just moved into a tiny cottage on Mackinnon land with the laziest cat in the world, Basil. She is not a happy camper because the previous owner, her grandmother’s lover, did not leave her Castle Dunnascaul as he promised; instead leaving it to his grandson. Instead, he left her the cottage.

Cian Mackinnon thinks it is only his right to have been left the castle, although he does not begrudge Gillian the cottage. He thinks Gillian is very sexy, but is not so enamored of her antics.

When Gillian puts up a chain to prevent him using the driveway to the castle, Cian decides he has had enough. One in a long line of incidents to show her displeasure not getting ownership of the castle, she does her best to keep the feud between the Grants, the original owners of the castle, and the Mackinnon’s the newest ones, going strong. Will Cian be able to convince her that the feud is meaningless, and best put to rest? Or will Gillian keep it going and refuse to give into their very real attraction?

Double Double Toil & Trouble had me roaring with laughter. Gillian's determination to show her displeasure in any way she can, including and up to laying down in the driveway so cars can't pass had me roaring with laughter. This story is a keeper!

Rider in the Storm

Ciara MacIan lost her fiancé Derek whom she loved very much seven years before. Her heart has never healed from the loss and if not for his cat Sinnjinn, she would possibly not have survived the loss.

Roarke Devlin has just moved to the Palisades area in Kentucky. He nearly died seven years before when a virus destroyed his heart. If not for a life saving transplant he would never have survived. Now he has memories he cannot explain; memories that include Ciara.

When Ciara goes to her finace’s grave hoping to bid him a last farewell for good, she instead gets roaring drunk, cuts herself, and goes to sleep on his grave. Desperate to put the horrible memories of how he died to rest, she takes the road where his fatal car crash took place. Just as she arrives on the scene, a car and a man that remind her of Derek are there ahead of her. Everything about Roarke reminds her of Derek. Will she be able to accept that love is eternal and anything is possible? Or will she turn Roarke away when she discovers his secret?

Rider in the Storm is a real tear jerker. Unlike the previous three stories this one grabs you by the heart and will not let go. The idea of eternal love is rampant throughout, making this one a keeper.

Devil in Spurs

Lady Ashlyn Findlater has only her cat Cyril to truly love her. Her father has ignored her her entire life, and only recently brought her into society with the idea of marrying her off.

Desdein Deshaunt, otherwise known as the Marquis de Fournier, breeds horses and plays the role of disenchanted nobleman by day, and the highwayman ‘the Devil in Spurs’ by night. He is out for revenge against Ashlyn’s father who killed his own father in a duel twenty years earlier.

When Desdein’s young brother Jeremy is arrested as the Devil in Spurs by mistake, he will do anything to get him out, including kidnapping Ashlyn in order to exchange her for Jeremy. However, Ashlyn is not at all what he thought, and it becomes obvious once he gets to know her that she is the woman for him. But he has gone down a road there is no turning back from and he cannot allow his brother to go to Newgate for something he himself has been doing. Will Ashlyn find a way to help him as she longs to do once she discovers who he is? Or will someone she loves die?

Another tear jerker, Devil in Spurs is none-the-less very heartwarming. Ashlyn as the child who was never really loved and always ignored is still quite a strong personality. I liked how Desdein comes to understand what is truly important in this story. A wonderful romance worth every dime.

All I Want for Christmas is a Hula-Hoop and a Mother

Leslie Seaforth is a ballet instructor. She is divorced and longs for a husband and child of her own. When she gets a gander at Keon Challenger, one of her student’s fathers, she is very attracted.

Keon Challenger loves Kentucky and is a transplanted Brit. He adores his daughter Allison and will do just about anything for her, although he has no idea how he is going to fulfill her request for a mother.

When a blizzard hits the area, Keon sees it as his prime chance for him and Allison to spend some time with Leslie, getting to know her better. When she will not come home with him and Allison, he insists on driving her home. Because of the weather conditions they end up staying at Leslie’s home. In a very short amount of time it becomes clear to all of them that they are each what the other needs, but will Keon be able to convince Leslie that he is the real thing, and that he loves her? Or having been burned once, will Leslie turn away her heart’s desire?

All I Want for Christmas is a Hula-Hoop and a Mother is a precious story. I loved Allison’s perkiness and how smart she was. Keon is the perfect dad and one that any little girl would be proud to call her own. The author portrayed Leslie’s pain over her past and her reaction to what had happened in a realistic fashion. A heart warming story you will not want to miss.

Blue Christmas Cat

Dara Seaforth has loved Rhys St. John her entire life. Sure that she can never love another, she chooses to live alone. Her beloved cat Dexter has gone to kitty heaven and she longs for another cat to love.

Rhys St. John did what his family wanted when he was young. He took over the family business, building it up from the ruin his father made it, and married the so-called suitable woman when his mother played the guilt card to get him to do it. Now newly divorced, he has returned home to try and get the woman he loves back. He and his cat Elvis, that is.

When Dara asks the spirit of Dexter to bring her another cat to love, she is astonished when seconds later she hears a cat crying on her front stoop. She brings in the cat called Elvis, never knowing that he belongs to Rhys. When Rhys shows up to get his cat back, he uses it as a ploy to get to Dara to realize he loves her. Will Rhys be able to convince her that he has always loved her and wants her now? Or will Dara be to afraid to trust him?

A cute story where the magic of Christmas is rampant. I really enjoyed reading about Elvis the cat and his people. The love story here is one to be treasured and Dara and Rhys felt like old friends by the time I had finished reading about them. A well thought out and beguiling story.

Chicken What Du Hell

Royce “Remy” Kinross, Marquis of Dunmoor and Seafeld, is hiding out in Louisiana with his Cajun relatives. Tired of women throwing themselves at him for his money, including an ex-wife, he longs for a woman who will love him for himself. He thinks that someone might be Catonia Flemyn. One thing is for sure, his cat Bubba is in love with her.

Catonia Flemy used to be a super model until she left it all behind, including her ex-husband who did not like the idea of losing his jet setting lifestyle. She too longs for love, but is willing at least for the moment to settle for a house in Louisiana that is all her own.

When Bubba leaves a love gift of yet another dead snake on Catonia’s bed, she has had enough. As with the other two “gifts” she brings it right back to his owner Remy. Remy might give her the hots, but the huge feline continuing to leave her gifts is getting on her nerves. When Remy tries to use the incident as an excuse to get her to have dinner with him, she turns him down flat. Eventually she lets her guard down and they get close; that is, until she sees something in the tabloids that makes her blood boil. Will she listen to him when he tries to explain, or turn her back on him?

Chicken What Du Hell had me roaring with laughter, particularly Bubba’s antics and his obvious adoration for Catonia who does not quite know what to do with him. Remy is a wonderful hero, and I really enjoyed how the author got this couple together.

A Very Special Man

Desdemona “Dezzy” Vashon is an aspiring author. She lives alone in the house her grandmother left her with her cat Simon.

Simon is more than just a cat. He is Simon Ravensdale, Viscount Moordon, only he has been a cat for so long he often forgets. He is in love with Dezzy.

When Simon discovers that he can communicate with Dezzy in her sleep, he uses it to his advantage, for it is then he can make love to her in her dreams. However, Simon wants more. He wants the reality. If only he could remember what he needed to have her do to return him to his normal state. When he finally does remember and gets Dezzy to do what needs to be done to free him, they are both ecstatic. However, Dezzy sees more problems ahead; ones that she thinks are insurmountable. Will Simon be able to convince her that together they can do anything?

A Very Special Man is a magical tale of true love that is perfect for Christmas. I loved reading about how Dezzy brings out what is necessary in Simon to help him help her to break the spell. Simon and Dezzy are perfect together and it was a joy to read about how Simon convinces her anything is possible.

Cat O’Nine Tales is definitely a keeper. The sex is hot and varied, but shot through with a lot of emotion making each story one to be savored while reading. The cats added a lovely dimension that only cats can, and I adored their individual personalities. Each story is one to be treasured, and I know I will be rereading them over and over for many years to come. If you love cats, and a good love story as I do, then you will not want to miss this wonderful collection as it is phenomenal. This anthology belongs on every romance lovers bookshelf!

Regina
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books

11 November 2007

5 Star Review for Riding the Thunder



"Riding the Thunder" by Deborah MacGillivray


"Riding the Thunder" is the 2nd installment of the Sisters of Colford Hall Series. (The first being "Invasion of Falgannon Isle")

Jago Mershan and his brothers are dead set on distroying the dynasty left behind when Sean Montgomerie, the man responsible for he death of their father, passed away.
While his brother, Des, was at Falgannon working on taking over the island and it's lady, B.A. Montgomerie, Jago was in Kentucky working on Asha, B.A.'s sister.
Ever since Jago laid eyes on Asha at her grandfather's funeral, he was obsessed with not only possessing the Montgomery fortune, but Asha as well. Ok, so obsessed is a mild word. As a man who when he saw something he liked, he just bought it...cars...motercycles...etc...etc...he was dead set on claiming Asha as his own. Only he found Asha could not be bought.

This book also contains another story of mystery...one of the haunting of a small town in Kentucky where Asha lives that includes a Wurlitzer 2700 jukebox that has a mind of it's own. And there are the ghosts of Tommy and Laura who frequent Asha's resturant, The Windmill, who died back in 1964.

Oh, yes, just as in "...Falgannon Isle", we get the chance to fall in love with another adorable feline who remains nameless until the end of the book! I love it when authors bring animals into the storyline! Pets are such a big part of our lives that they should be allowed in our stories from time to time.

I loved "The Invasion of Falgannon Isle" so much that I couldn't wait for the next in the series. When "Riding the Thunder" was released, it took a bit for me to read it. Not because I didn't want to, but because I was afraid that it wouldn't live up to "...Falgannon Isle." Oh, boy was I wrong! I loved this book!!!

There is an abundance of heat and passion between Jago and Asha! Ms. MacGillivray has such a talent for creating characters that draw you in and make you care about their lives! Her heroes and heroines are intelligent, strong, and sexy! Jago and Asha are no exception!

Deborah paints such a lovely picture of small town Kentucky that I could just envision it! Wait...let me look out my window! Oh, there it is!!!! LOL
I would recommend reading "The Invasion of Falgannon Isle" first. That way, when you are reading "Riding the Thunder," you already have some knowledge of who some of the other characters are.

I now can't wait until the next book in this series is released!!!!!
I'm giving this book * * * * * stars for another amazing tale of love, intrigue, and of course, ghosts! LOL

Hugs and kisses and happy reading!
Annie
Annie's Celtic Home

10 November 2007

You can vote for Riding the Thunder video

Riding the Thunder, my book video, is up for the Covey Award. The video has the beautiful song, Lost for Words by Mike Duncan (Mike-Duncan.org) http://thenewcoveytrailerawards.blogspot.com/ there are two categories to vote. Riding the Thunder is 21






Riding the Thunder (Remix version) from D Macgillivray and Vimeo
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07 November 2007

5 Star Review for In Her Bed from Beverly Romance Books


Masterfully Written Sequel!

Review By Beverly Romance Books "Beverly" (St. Petersburg, Florida)

If you are one of the many readers who enjoyed The Invasion of Falgannon Isle, you will be blown over and entertained to the maximum with DeborahAnne MacGillivray's sequel "Riding Thunder." This is a writer that just keeps getting better with each book release. Her unique talent, knowledge base, writing prose, story and character development are truly amazing. This is definitely one of those stories that readers will not be able to put down and will probably read in a day, unable to pull themselves away from the sensual mystique of the story and its characters. Only Ms. MacGillivray can write a contemporary Scottish romance and construct it in such a way that it has the feel of a Medieval Historical and a Paranormal with a mix of suspense added to the story. If you are a cat lover, you will smile and laugh as she has the superb capability of inserting a feline character that actually fits into the storyline, adding an additional dimension to the Falgannon Isle series, as well as the other stories she writes.

Taking place in parallel with the first book, while the eldest and leader of the Mershan family, Desmond, is boiling over with vengeance and is conquering the Falgannon Isle's leader and granddaughter, B.A. (BarbaraAnne Montgomerie), he sends his brother Jago to the State of Kentucky to zero in on B.A.'s sister Asha. In a very creative contemporary paranormal twist, there are numerous other strange happenings while the planned vengeance and takeover of Montgomerie Enterprises is taking place and the handsome Mershan men on different continents are sensually drawn to the beautiful, strong, intelligent and willful Montgomerie women.

Similar to her sister B.A., Asha is responsible for her business and the livelihood of several unique secondary characters that are just as interesting and fun as the 213 Single Scotsmen B.A. is responsible for on Falgannon Isle. Asha is the owner of a unique 1960's period Diner and cottage rental that carry a mystique regarding the tragic death of two lovers back in the 1960's. The old jukebox at the Diner continues to randomly keep playing the tragic favorite love song of Jenny and Tommy. Very similar to the people of Falgannon Isle with their strange quirks, the people of Leesburg, Kentucky do not want any changes made to their small part of the world run by Asha. Stuck in the 60's they are as confused as Asha with the arrival of the sexy and handsome outsider, Jago Fitzgerald, (really Jago Mershan). Mystery begins to build and more than sparks fly. As Asha rides the thunder with Jago, they are not only enmeshed in the Montgomerie/Mershan ordeal, with Jago hiding his identity and the truth of the overtaking of Montgomerie Enterprises from Asha and her family, but Asha begins to have blackouts, not only reliving portions of the former 1960's tragic lovers lives, but suspicious parts of their tragic deaths. While giving into the sparks of desire and the wild ride of sensuality Asha and Jago's passion develops into a deep love. Jago struggles with the realization that he must tell Asha the reasons for his being in Leesburg and about the plan his brother Desmond has constructed to destroy the Montgomerie family. Just as everything is coming together for Jago and Asha, the true tragedy of Tommy and Jenny is revealed and Asha gets caught up in the danger while at the same time discovering that Jago has been lying to her. Can the handsome Jago regain her trust while at the same time save her and their love in time? Or will Leesburg once again experience a Jenny and Tommy tragedy?

Don't miss reading this wonderfully entertaining story and series that is a Contemporary Romance with a mixture of the mystique of a Scottish Medieval Historical, Paranormal and Romance Suspense novel that is a true delight and masterpiece. I was awestruck by this story and highly recommend it for an extremely entertaining read! But don't miss the first book, The Invasion of Falgannon Isle. If you haven't had the pleasure yet, make a MacGillivray weekend and read them both!

06 November 2007

Single Titles.com 5 star review of Riding the Thunder


Genre: contemporary
ISBN: 0505526921
Page Count: 354
Price: $6.99
Reviewer: Donna Zapf
Sensuality Rating: SultryStar
Rating: 5 Stars

Award winning author Deborah MacGillivray continues her creative Sister of Colford Hall series with her hauntingly magic novel, RIDING THE THUNDER.

Content to own and run the 1960s style Windmill diner, motel, drive-in theatre and swim club in rural Kentucky, Asha Montgomerie relishes the slower pace. Her employees are like family, all finding their home at the Windmill. There are even resident ghosts haunting the diner; two star crossed lovers killed in a questionable car accident and a manic juke box that plays tunes from the 60s at will. Oddly enough, Asha seems to have a connection with the ghostly lovers through her fey Picish powers her Grandmother told her all Montgomerie women posses. Unfortunately, Asha’s contentment is threatened by a large conglomerate, Trident, that sent a representative, Jago Fitzgerald, with offers to buy the Windmill and her brother Liam’s horse farm. Of course Asha has no intention of selling but Jago certainly plays havoc with her libido the minute she lays eyes on him.

Jago Fitzgerald Mershan is struck by the beauty of the feisty auburn haired Asha. He rapidly falls for her and immediately begins a battle with his guilt. Jago is deceiving Asha and plans to “take over” the Montgomerie holdings in Kentucky even as his brothers are doing the same in England and Scotland. Jago begins to make himself at home at the Windmill by first buying a vintage Shelby Mustang then a classic Electra Glide motorbike and finally being adopted by a large black cat. With Jago becoming part of the Windmill family, who will he betray, Asha or his brothers?

RIDING THE THUNDER rumbles along taking readers on an entertaining ride. Deborah MacGillivray gifts us with well matched heroes, luscious love scenes and engaging secondary characters that ensnare us in the suspenseful plot of her witty romantic story with a paranormal touch. My advice; get this book and ride the thunder!

03 November 2007

5 Star Review for In Her Bed from Beverly Romance Books





Stupendous Sensual Sequel!, November 1, 2007
By Beverly Romance Books "Beverly" (St. Petersburg, Florida)

DeborahAnne MacGillivray debuted on the Historical Romance scene with "A Restless Knight," one of the best Scottish Medieval Romances ever written. It was amazing to believe this book was a debut. The release of the sequel, "In Her Bed," will awe historical romance readers even more with another beautiful storyline with depth of research and character development. Very few writers have the ability to continue a series without having the following books go flat, thus disappointing fans. Not with DeborahAnne MacGillivray! Nobody does it better!

Continuing where the previous story left off, Julian Challon, known as The Black Dragon, has been declared the overlord of all Scottish lands surrounding Glenrogha by decree of King Edward I and marriage to the beautiful Lady of Glenrogha, Tamlyn MacShane. We leave the Beltane festivities and upcoming marriage celebration of Julian and Tamlyn who have found true love and happiness in this arrangement, only to have Julian's cousin and right-hand man, Damian St. Giles, Lord Ravenhawke, confused, depressed and missing.

The handsome Damian feels he is in love with his cousin's future wife, Lady Tamlyn, as he believes it is she that continues to rescue him in a recurring dream he has had for years. Damien's duty toward his cousin, Lord Challon, and to King Edward, is to become the Lord of Lyonglen, lands rightfully his as the old Barron's grandson, which just happen to be close to Glenrogha and currently occupied by Lady Tamlyn's look-alike cousin, Lady Aithinne Ogilvie. Lady Aithinne has been under the guardianship of the old Lord of Lyonglen for years and now that he has passed away, upon hearing the rumors of King Edward's invasion and The Black Dragon is concerned about the precious lands and people of Lyonglen. She is also troubled as many Scottish lairds have tried to steal Lyonglen through marriage to her. In her attempt to save herself and Lyonglen she feels she must convince everyone that she had married the old Barron of Lyonglen before his death and that she is with child; a child that would be considered the true heir to Lyonglen. But Aithinne is an innocent virgin, so she turns to the old healer Oona to produce a potion that would draw a handsome and strong man to her bed for a period of time so that she can conceive. She sends her brothers out to the Beltane festivities to find and bring back a strong and handsome man for her to bed, not realizing they would return with the true Lord Ravenhawke, the long lost grandson of the Barron of Lyonglen.

Oona's powerful potion works and for seven beautiful nights Aithinne has the handsome Damian in her bed, bound and captive, being fed the potion until she can conceive. With this powerful potion Aithinne and Damien experience passion beyond their wildest dreams. While Aithinne discovers passion that soon turns to love, Damien, confused by the potion and the beauty in his bed that strongly resembles Tamlyn, believes he is with Tamlyn, and cries out Tamlyn's name during intense passion. Not realizing her own special beauty, Aithinne has always felt second best to her beautiful cousin and is crushed at discovering Damien's love for Tamlyn. Once Oona confirms that Aithinne is with child, Aithinne realizes she must let Damien go, not realizing who he truly is and that Tamlyn is in love with and is going to marry The Black Dragon. Damien is given another potion in order for him to forget and he is released. He returns to Glenrogha even more confused, arriving just in time to celebrate the upcoming wedding of Julian and Tamlyn and witnessing their intense love. How could Tamlyn bed him so passionately when her love for Julian is so obvious?

Aithinne is left alone, hurt, and in love, but happy to be carrying Damien's child. When Damien returns to Lyonglen as Lord Ravenhawke, the grandson and rightful heir, chaos begins. Aithinne is carrying Damien's child and is in love with him, but he does not remember her. Once Damien takes over the duties as Lord of Lyonglen, the more time he spends with Aithinne, he begins to remember parts of the recent past until finally he remembers all and that it was Aithinne he has bedded. He comes to realize that not only has he fallen in lust, but in love and that the child Aithinne carries is his. But most important, he realizes it has been Aithinne who has been the woman in his dreams, not Tamlyn. Can Damien forgive Aithinne for her deception? Will Aithinne forgive her own deception as well, now realizing her error, but most of all; can she forget Damien's declaration of love for Tamlyn during their time of intense passion and ever come to realize that Damien's love for her is true? Or will both realize that their love is stronger than any deception, dream, magical potion or spell can produce?

Once again the beauty and magic of "A Restless Knight" is re-created and becomes something better and difficult to describe in its intensity. A fan of medieval romance cannot read anything better or more enjoyable. This sensual story of love keeps the reader spellbound to the pages in a way only DeborahAnne MacGillivray can. "In Her Bed" is a stupendous read and a true match to the first book in the series. It is a definite keeper for those who love Scottish folklore and the true magic of love.

Summoning Thunder













Where Inspiration is Found or How to Summon Thunder
by
Deborah Macgillivray




I leave pieces of myself in my contemporary paranormal romances. In The Invasion of Falgannon Isle and now Riding the Thunder I draw heavily on memories of growing up, of places and people that touched me in some form. Most of these people and many spots are now long gone, though they still live in those shining memories dear to me. In The Invasion of Falgannon Isle, it was the Scots and their wonderful humor, the ability to accept there’s more to this world than just what we see, their ability to laugh at any situation. Not just at, but with. I took those wonderful memories and spun a fantasy that created an imaginary isle with 213 bachelors and with only three unmarried women―two were gay and the remaining one was a woman the males couldn’t court because of an ancient curse! It’s a Brigadoonish romp that came straight from my heart.

When I moved to the second book in the series, I wanted to do something fresh, not a carbon copy of the first book, so I looked to the other half of my roots―Kentucky. One reader who recently read Riding the Thunder said she loved the book so much she wished there really was a place called The Windmill. Well, in truth there was. There actually was once upon a time a small restaurant with that name on Lexington Pike, that was about halfway between Lexington and Nicholasville. Long ago, the suburban sprawl of Lexington saw the distance between the massive college town and the small southern community fade. My parents were separated, then later divorced; Father lived in Britain, while my mum lived in Kentucky. I stayed with her during the school year, but holidays and summers I spent in England and Scotland. Sadly, my parents still cared about each other, so it was too painful for them to face each other when they ‘handed me over’, so for a week or two I was sent to stay with Mum’s step-sister, until I was collected by the other parent. I always enjoyed those stays.

I got to see the beautiful horse farms in the bluegrass area. I enjoyed the small town pace, where everyone knew each other, where eccentrics and oddballs were relished, much in the same manner the Scots did. These out of way places have their own pace, and it touched my imagination. So, yes, the Windmill did exist. A horse farm was across the road from it. It had a Wurlitzer that tended to play the wrong tunes at times. There was a swim club, a motel and a Drive-in. And there was even a young man nicknamed Oo-it!

Over the years, I visited the area less and less. It hurt to see the city sprawl, the giant Lexington pushing closer and closer, until finally consuming the tiny town of Nicholasville. All its special flavor, its quirkiness was lost. Only those images, those seeds lived in my mind. I wanted to capture that timeless feeling, so thus my stage was set for Jago Mershan and Asha Montgomerie.

My stories always evolve with the questions of who and why. I see a scene in my head, such as the opening of Chapter One. I saw Jago sitting at the bar, waiting, and drinking a beer.
Who is he? Why is he there? Whom is he waiting for? Why is he waiting? He’s waiting for Asha naturally. Then when Asha enters, it’s more questions. Where did she just come from? I knew who she was basically, since she was the little sister of the heroine in the first book in the series, but the questions then moved me to defining Asha and her quirky world.

Cats seem to wander into my stories, so I wasn’t surprised the nameless cat appeared and took up with Jago. I kept trying to name the black cat, only he defied being named, so that became a part of the story as well.

As for the tune Tell Laura I Love Her―the song was very popular when I was a child and it seemed play endlessly on the Jukebox at the real Windmill Restaurant. Everything is so sharp in my mind. I recall the beautiful Wurlitzer, the wallet changers on the walls by each booth, the way the sun came through the plate glass windows that ran across the front. The Drive-in showing Vincent Price movies, the scent of baby oil and chlorine from the swim club, the smells, the diner’s chatter, the Kentucky River, Lock 8, all of these elements created vivid memories within me that lived and were nurtured within my heart.

The one day, Riding the Thunder was born.