Title: A Highlander in a Pickup by Laura Trentham
Highland, Georgia Series Book Two
Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 313 pages
Book Rating: B+
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley
Summary:
A Highlander in a Pickup is the second book in award-winning author Laura Trentham’s romantic comedy Highland Georgia series, full of love, laughs…and highlanders!
When a gorgeous new man—in a kilt—comes to town, life in Highland, Georgia will never be the same…
Iain Connors is the poster boy for the strong and silent type. Growing up a loner at Cairndow Castle in Scotland with only the cliffs and moors for company, it’s understood Iain will assume the mantle of Cairndow groundskeeper when his father is ready to relinquish it. But his stint in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces has opened up a whole new world—and now, rather than settle down, he accepts an invitation to travel to the States to take charge of the Highland Games. After all, he’s led men into battle, how hard can planning a party be?
Anna Maitland is ready to step up for her best friend Isabel Blackmoor, who can’t run the Games in their hometown this year. Surely Anna, a dance instructor with boundless energy, spirit, and charm, is up for the challenge? What she doesn’t anticipate is a man in a kilt who turns up claiming he’s the one in charge. What’s worse about this Iain? He’s so infuriatingly handsome that she can’t help but fantasize about him whispering sweet-nothings in her ear in his rumbly, sexy brogue. . .
Review:
A Highlander in a Pickup by Laura Trentham is a delightfully charming romance. Although this latest release is the second novel in the Highland, Georgia series, it can easily be read as a standalone.
Dance teacher Anna Maitland is in charge of organizing this year’s Highland Games. She does not want or need the assistance of Iain Connors but she eventually grudgingly accepts his help. Anna also tries to ignore her growing fascination of and attraction to Iain. But will she be able to continue to resist the kilt-wearing, reserved Scotsman?
Anna is fiercely independent and does not trust easily. She has a complicated relationship with her mother who raised her on her own after her father abandoned them. Anna is devoted to her students and she is increasingly concerned about one of her young dancers. She has also had a string of bad luck with the men has dated, so Anna has no plans to act on her growing desire for Iain.
After leaving the military, Iain returned to Cairndow Castle where he is expected to take over as caretaker when his father retires. But he becomes increasingly restless and uncertain of his future the more time he spends at the castle. Feeling a bit trapped by parental expectation, Iain readily agreed to travel to Highland to help Anna with the Highland Games. Although eager to lend assistance, Iain is a bit of a loner and lacks confidence with dating. He is immediately taken with Anna and his admiration for the sassy dance instructor continues to grow.
With Iain’s departure date looming, he and Anna are finding it more and more difficult not to give in to their mutual attraction. Finally throwing caution to the wind, they eagerly embark on a passionate fling. But what neither of them is willing to admit is their feelings for each other run much deeper than desire. But what chance do they have for a future together when Anna’s destiny is firmly in Highland and Iain is obligated to return to Scotland?
A Highlander in a Pickup is a heartwarming romance with an enchanting small town setting and marvelous cast of characters. Anna and Iain are beautifully drawn, vibrant characters that are immensely appealing. The storyline is engaging and fast-paced. The romance between Anna and Iain is sweet yet steamy. Laura Trentham brings this marvelous romance to a heartfelt and uplifting conclusion. The touching epilogue will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the marvelous Highland, Georgia series.
