Nicola here, celebrating the publication of Claimed by the Laird, the third and final book in my Scottish Brides trilogy.
Writing a Scottish-set Regency series has been great fun. It’s allowed me to mix romance, danger, adventure, pirates and whisky smugglers with wonderful settings, feisty heroines and gorgeous heroes. I’ve been able to draw on my many trips to the Highlands and to do lots of research into everything from bagpipes to shipwrecks. I’ve flown to Fair Isle and walked the walls of ruined castles. I love my job!
Particularly lovely has been the reader feedback; I’ve already been asked if there will be any more Scottish Brides books and because I always enjoy revisiting a series, I’d never say never. There are some characters who are already asking for a sequel… One reader told me that they wanted to join the Highland Ladies Bluestocking Society, the club that two of my heroines belong to. I'd like to be a member too!
The idea for the Bluestocking Society arose from my reading about the Scottish enlightenment and the 
discussions and intellectual meetings that took place mainly in Edinburgh. The Poker Club, the Select Society and the Oyster Club were examples of real Scottish clubs where scientists, writers and thinkers met to discuss ideas and eat delicacies such as salt haddock. These were male-dominated (as in the picture) but it struck me that well-to-do, independent minded women could also form their own society. The members of the Highland Ladies Bluestocking Society discuss books and reading but they also have an improper side and an interest in activities as various as life drawing and belly dancing!
Christina, the heroine of Claimed by the Laird, does not have time for such frivolity, however. As the actual if not the titular head of the MacMorlan Clan she is the laird in all but name and runs the estates on behalf of her hopelessly inefficient father, the Duke of Forres. It is Christina who cares for the tenants, oversees the running of the castle and tries to rein in the duke’s more extravagant excesses. She also organises the local whisky-smuggling gang.
Wench Susan has written some wonderful pieces about Scottish whisky smuggling here and here so I won’t say much about how whisky was made and distributed other than that it was fun to research! I went to the Gairloch Heritage Museum where they have an exhibit showing the process of whisky distilling and giving some of its history. What particularly fascinated me was that the recipe by which the whisky was made was passed on as a closely-guarded secret. Also secret was the location of the stills since an army of “gaugers” were combing the glens on behalf of the government in London, looking for the smugglers in order to make them pay their taxes!
The location of the whisky still in Claimed by the Laird was based on a place I know well, the Tea House on the Cuillin estate in Wester Ross. Now it is a bothy offering shelter to walkers in the mountains. In the eighteenth and nineteenth century it hid a whisky still. The “tea” was a euphemism for whisky. It is the perfect spot for a whisky still, remote and hidden, with a good supply of running water. These days it’s the perfect place for a picnic!
The Cuillin estate also provided the inspiration for another element of the story. SPOILER – When 
Christina escapes the gaugers she appears to walk away across the waters of the loch. At Loch Cuillin the stony shore of the loch is forever moving with the currents and the rainwater washed down from the hills. One day we were able to walk quite a long way out into the water on a path that lay just below the surface and it was this that gave me the idea for Christina’s dramatic escape. Here I am with Angus MacLeod checking out ways to cross the water!
With a toy boy hero, a smuggling heroine, a ragged band of neer-do-wells, a second secret love story and lots of steamy romance, Claimed by the Laird was a fun way to finish the Scottish Brides trilogy.
Here is an extract:
“I do not understand how a woman like you comes to be involved in something like this,” Lucas said. He looked around the room. “You don’t need the money,” he said slowly, “and after what you have said tonight I would swear you do not do it for the excitement. So why do you do it?”
She was silent. After a moment she sat down in one of the armchairs, half-turned away from him. He watched the play of firelight and shadow across her face. She was just drunk enough to be indiscreet, he thought, whilst sober enough to be coherent. It could be interesting.
“I’m good at it,” she said, after a moment. Her chin came up. She looked defiant. “I am the taster, the only one with the ability to judge when the whisky is ready to be distilled. It’s important… a skilled job.”
“I’m skilled at picking pockets,” Lucas said. “It doesn’t mean I should do it.”
“Are you?” For a moment she sounded intrigued. “What an extraordinary talent to possess! How did you develop it?”
“I had a misspent youth on the streets,” Lucas said. He had not meant to talk about himself but with Christina it was all too easy to let down his guard and forget. He could see her looking at him curiously; it was not pity he could see in her eyes but compassion. “I was an orphan,” he said. His voice was harsh. He had never told anyone but Jack about his childhood. He was astonished to hear himself telling her now. “I had to learn any number of tricks to survive.”
“I’m sorry.” Her voice was soft. “Your parents-”
“I don’t speak of them.” He slammed the door shut before he could betray himself entirely.
“What you do is different,” he said, as much to remind himself as to provoke her.
“Of course.” A defensive note had crept into her voice. “I do not have to fight for survival. But equally I don’t act for personal gain. The rest of the gang divide up the profits. They need the money. I don’t.” She rushed on, her words tumbling out far quicker than normal in her hurry to justify herself. “You’ve seen the poverty in the village, Mr Ross. Many of the young men have left to join the highland regiments, or taken their families overseas. There is no work, nothing to keep people here ever since my grandfather put up the rents sixty years ago and offered his tenancies to the highest bidder. He drove people from the land.”
Lucas had recognised the poverty in Kilmory village within the first day of being there. What Christina said was true; there was little work on the land now, few ways to give any man a job and a living wage. And with that loss of work went a loss of self-respect. He understood that; he knew how fiercely a man’s pride and his independence were tied up in his ability to provide for his family. Christina’s grandfather had destroyed the traditional bonds between the laird and his people and it seemed that her father had done nothing to try to improve their welfare even though he was reputedly a rich man.
“Is it too late to reverse that process of decline now?” he asked.
Christina shrugged. “I do not know. But papa…” For a second she faltered as though considering the disloyalty of speaking out against the duke. “Well, he has no interest in the land, no interest in anything other than his studies. By the time he inherited his estates the damage was done and he handed his lands over to be administered by those who could make him the greatest profit.”
“It sounds as though your father is not really concerned with the future of his people,” Lucas said, “whilst you work to limit the harm he can do by feeding them and keeping a roof over their heads.”
“Oh…” She sounded embarrassed. “I would not have you think that papa cares nothing for people. Truth is he does not really notice. He is a scholar, caught up in matters of more academic importance…” Her voice faded away unhappily.
Fiddling whilst Rome burned, Lucas thought. It seemed to him that the Duke of Forres was like a great big overgrown child who indulged his whims without thought for the consequences or the toll it took on others. It was not sufficient to ascribe his neglect to eccentricity or scholarly absorption. He was draining his lands of their money and his people of their livelihoods for personal gain.
“So it is left to you to give the people of Kilmory back their self-respect,” Lucas said. “I imagine you do the same at Forres, and all the Duke’s other estates.”
“I don’t run smuggling gangs there,” Christina said, “but I do try to help the people make a living.”
“A dishonest one, in Kilmory’s case,” Lucas said.
Her lips twitched into an enchanting smile. “Do I infer that you disapprove of me, Mr Ross? I had no idea that you were so incorruptible.”
“”Smuggling is illegal,” Lucas said.
She raised a brow at his blunt tone. “Well, theoretically, yes-”
“There’s no such thing as a theoretical criminal,” Lucas said. “You either are or you aren’t.”
She shrugged. “Bad laws make for bad men.” She gave him the glimmer of a smile. “And bad women.” 
She tipped the flask to her lips again.
If you haven’t yet caught up with the series I am offering a set of the three books to one commenter today. My question: Do you enjoy a wee dram of whisky or do you prefer a different drink, alcoholic or otherwise? And have you ever made your own drinks to a secret or not-so-secret recipe?
Whisky is always fine, but I live only a few miles from Kentucky so My tipple is bourbon.
Whisky is always fine, but I live only a few miles from Kentucky so My tipple is bourbon.
Whisky is always fine, but I live only a few miles from Kentucky so My tipple is bourbon.
Whisky is always fine, but I live only a few miles from Kentucky so My tipple is bourbon.
Whisky is always fine, but I live only a few miles from Kentucky so My tipple is bourbon.
I used to like whisky, but find alcohol affects me so much more as I’ve got older. These days I prefer Bailey’s, particularly biscotti flavour. I used to make my own wine and once experimented with tea wine. Unfortunately, it all blew up in the garage, so I only got a delicious smell, but no taste!
I used to like whisky, but find alcohol affects me so much more as I’ve got older. These days I prefer Bailey’s, particularly biscotti flavour. I used to make my own wine and once experimented with tea wine. Unfortunately, it all blew up in the garage, so I only got a delicious smell, but no taste!
I used to like whisky, but find alcohol affects me so much more as I’ve got older. These days I prefer Bailey’s, particularly biscotti flavour. I used to make my own wine and once experimented with tea wine. Unfortunately, it all blew up in the garage, so I only got a delicious smell, but no taste!
I used to like whisky, but find alcohol affects me so much more as I’ve got older. These days I prefer Bailey’s, particularly biscotti flavour. I used to make my own wine and once experimented with tea wine. Unfortunately, it all blew up in the garage, so I only got a delicious smell, but no taste!
I used to like whisky, but find alcohol affects me so much more as I’ve got older. These days I prefer Bailey’s, particularly biscotti flavour. I used to make my own wine and once experimented with tea wine. Unfortunately, it all blew up in the garage, so I only got a delicious smell, but no taste!
Very nice too, Kate!
Very nice too, Kate!
Very nice too, Kate!
Very nice too, Kate!
Very nice too, Kate!
Gosh, how dramatic, Jayne! I hope no one was hurt and nothing damaged too badly. I rather like the idea of tea wine.
Gosh, how dramatic, Jayne! I hope no one was hurt and nothing damaged too badly. I rather like the idea of tea wine.
Gosh, how dramatic, Jayne! I hope no one was hurt and nothing damaged too badly. I rather like the idea of tea wine.
Gosh, how dramatic, Jayne! I hope no one was hurt and nothing damaged too badly. I rather like the idea of tea wine.
Gosh, how dramatic, Jayne! I hope no one was hurt and nothing damaged too badly. I rather like the idea of tea wine.
I only drink Pepsi. I tasted something my husband was drinking years ago and it was disgusting so it’s only Pepsi for me.
I only drink Pepsi. I tasted something my husband was drinking years ago and it was disgusting so it’s only Pepsi for me.
I only drink Pepsi. I tasted something my husband was drinking years ago and it was disgusting so it’s only Pepsi for me.
I only drink Pepsi. I tasted something my husband was drinking years ago and it was disgusting so it’s only Pepsi for me.
I only drink Pepsi. I tasted something my husband was drinking years ago and it was disgusting so it’s only Pepsi for me.
We got to drinking whisky when my family was based in India. It was one of the better options, but I always mixed it with ginger ale! I don’t drink it when there’re other options, though. I’m definitely more of a gin person.
I loved this book by the way – I read an ARC a few months ago and actually ordered myself a paperback copy this afternoon (so I don’t want to enter the giveaway).
We got to drinking whisky when my family was based in India. It was one of the better options, but I always mixed it with ginger ale! I don’t drink it when there’re other options, though. I’m definitely more of a gin person.
I loved this book by the way – I read an ARC a few months ago and actually ordered myself a paperback copy this afternoon (so I don’t want to enter the giveaway).
We got to drinking whisky when my family was based in India. It was one of the better options, but I always mixed it with ginger ale! I don’t drink it when there’re other options, though. I’m definitely more of a gin person.
I loved this book by the way – I read an ARC a few months ago and actually ordered myself a paperback copy this afternoon (so I don’t want to enter the giveaway).
We got to drinking whisky when my family was based in India. It was one of the better options, but I always mixed it with ginger ale! I don’t drink it when there’re other options, though. I’m definitely more of a gin person.
I loved this book by the way – I read an ARC a few months ago and actually ordered myself a paperback copy this afternoon (so I don’t want to enter the giveaway).
We got to drinking whisky when my family was based in India. It was one of the better options, but I always mixed it with ginger ale! I don’t drink it when there’re other options, though. I’m definitely more of a gin person.
I loved this book by the way – I read an ARC a few months ago and actually ordered myself a paperback copy this afternoon (so I don’t want to enter the giveaway).
Good to stick with Pepsi when you like it, Beth! I’ve tried some stuff that tastes foul and it gives you a nasty surprise when you first try it!
Good to stick with Pepsi when you like it, Beth! I’ve tried some stuff that tastes foul and it gives you a nasty surprise when you first try it!
Good to stick with Pepsi when you like it, Beth! I’ve tried some stuff that tastes foul and it gives you a nasty surprise when you first try it!
Good to stick with Pepsi when you like it, Beth! I’ve tried some stuff that tastes foul and it gives you a nasty surprise when you first try it!
Good to stick with Pepsi when you like it, Beth! I’ve tried some stuff that tastes foul and it gives you a nasty surprise when you first try it!
Thanks so much, Sonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the book!
My dh often adds ginger ale to whisky – unless he is drinking a malt.
Thanks so much, Sonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the book!
My dh often adds ginger ale to whisky – unless he is drinking a malt.
Thanks so much, Sonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the book!
My dh often adds ginger ale to whisky – unless he is drinking a malt.
Thanks so much, Sonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the book!
My dh often adds ginger ale to whisky – unless he is drinking a malt.
Thanks so much, Sonya. I am thrilled that you enjoyed the book!
My dh often adds ginger ale to whisky – unless he is drinking a malt.
I prefer bourbon! Straight up
I prefer bourbon! Straight up
I prefer bourbon! Straight up
I prefer bourbon! Straight up
I prefer bourbon! Straight up
I don’t normally venture north of Hadrian’s Wall, though I did once attended a summer school at St Andrews. One of the ‘social activities’ was a tour of the distilleries, with free samples. I think I might have developed a taste for fine scotch then. I like it on the rocks with ice made from Malvern spring water.
I like the sound of your historicals Nicola. As you draw on your experience from visits, your books might well inspire me to make the effort to visit more. I already feel attracted to the Western Isles, especially Iona for the spiritual connection and Skye for the Black Cuillin. If you can convince me that the hills are teaming with romance as well as the natural beauty, you might well convert me into a regular visitor.
Though if Alec Salmon gets his way, and I need a passport or visa to visit soon, I may not want to! LOL
I don’t normally venture north of Hadrian’s Wall, though I did once attended a summer school at St Andrews. One of the ‘social activities’ was a tour of the distilleries, with free samples. I think I might have developed a taste for fine scotch then. I like it on the rocks with ice made from Malvern spring water.
I like the sound of your historicals Nicola. As you draw on your experience from visits, your books might well inspire me to make the effort to visit more. I already feel attracted to the Western Isles, especially Iona for the spiritual connection and Skye for the Black Cuillin. If you can convince me that the hills are teaming with romance as well as the natural beauty, you might well convert me into a regular visitor.
Though if Alec Salmon gets his way, and I need a passport or visa to visit soon, I may not want to! LOL
I don’t normally venture north of Hadrian’s Wall, though I did once attended a summer school at St Andrews. One of the ‘social activities’ was a tour of the distilleries, with free samples. I think I might have developed a taste for fine scotch then. I like it on the rocks with ice made from Malvern spring water.
I like the sound of your historicals Nicola. As you draw on your experience from visits, your books might well inspire me to make the effort to visit more. I already feel attracted to the Western Isles, especially Iona for the spiritual connection and Skye for the Black Cuillin. If you can convince me that the hills are teaming with romance as well as the natural beauty, you might well convert me into a regular visitor.
Though if Alec Salmon gets his way, and I need a passport or visa to visit soon, I may not want to! LOL
I don’t normally venture north of Hadrian’s Wall, though I did once attended a summer school at St Andrews. One of the ‘social activities’ was a tour of the distilleries, with free samples. I think I might have developed a taste for fine scotch then. I like it on the rocks with ice made from Malvern spring water.
I like the sound of your historicals Nicola. As you draw on your experience from visits, your books might well inspire me to make the effort to visit more. I already feel attracted to the Western Isles, especially Iona for the spiritual connection and Skye for the Black Cuillin. If you can convince me that the hills are teaming with romance as well as the natural beauty, you might well convert me into a regular visitor.
Though if Alec Salmon gets his way, and I need a passport or visa to visit soon, I may not want to! LOL
I don’t normally venture north of Hadrian’s Wall, though I did once attended a summer school at St Andrews. One of the ‘social activities’ was a tour of the distilleries, with free samples. I think I might have developed a taste for fine scotch then. I like it on the rocks with ice made from Malvern spring water.
I like the sound of your historicals Nicola. As you draw on your experience from visits, your books might well inspire me to make the effort to visit more. I already feel attracted to the Western Isles, especially Iona for the spiritual connection and Skye for the Black Cuillin. If you can convince me that the hills are teaming with romance as well as the natural beauty, you might well convert me into a regular visitor.
Though if Alec Salmon gets his way, and I need a passport or visa to visit soon, I may not want to! LOL
Good choice!
Good choice!
Good choice!
Good choice!
Good choice!
Thanks for your reply, Quantum. We enjoyed a tour of the Talisker distillery a few years ago but not even that could give me a taste for malt. It did give me lots of note for my research, though!
Iona is a very special place, I think, one of the most atmospheric sites I have ever visited. Whilst we were there we also took a boat to Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave. What an experience that was. I hope you make it north of the border again and that the current debates don’t discourage us all from visiting!
Thanks for your reply, Quantum. We enjoyed a tour of the Talisker distillery a few years ago but not even that could give me a taste for malt. It did give me lots of note for my research, though!
Iona is a very special place, I think, one of the most atmospheric sites I have ever visited. Whilst we were there we also took a boat to Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave. What an experience that was. I hope you make it north of the border again and that the current debates don’t discourage us all from visiting!
Thanks for your reply, Quantum. We enjoyed a tour of the Talisker distillery a few years ago but not even that could give me a taste for malt. It did give me lots of note for my research, though!
Iona is a very special place, I think, one of the most atmospheric sites I have ever visited. Whilst we were there we also took a boat to Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave. What an experience that was. I hope you make it north of the border again and that the current debates don’t discourage us all from visiting!
Thanks for your reply, Quantum. We enjoyed a tour of the Talisker distillery a few years ago but not even that could give me a taste for malt. It did give me lots of note for my research, though!
Iona is a very special place, I think, one of the most atmospheric sites I have ever visited. Whilst we were there we also took a boat to Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave. What an experience that was. I hope you make it north of the border again and that the current debates don’t discourage us all from visiting!
Thanks for your reply, Quantum. We enjoyed a tour of the Talisker distillery a few years ago but not even that could give me a taste for malt. It did give me lots of note for my research, though!
Iona is a very special place, I think, one of the most atmospheric sites I have ever visited. Whilst we were there we also took a boat to Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave. What an experience that was. I hope you make it north of the border again and that the current debates don’t discourage us all from visiting!
I have tried whisky. However, I must confess that in spite of my hopes of being like Marion from Indiana Jones, I did not care for the burn. But as I grow older that may change. I do enjoy wine and beer of many varieties on occassion. This book sounds excellent. An intelligent and caring heroine!
I have tried whisky. However, I must confess that in spite of my hopes of being like Marion from Indiana Jones, I did not care for the burn. But as I grow older that may change. I do enjoy wine and beer of many varieties on occassion. This book sounds excellent. An intelligent and caring heroine!
I have tried whisky. However, I must confess that in spite of my hopes of being like Marion from Indiana Jones, I did not care for the burn. But as I grow older that may change. I do enjoy wine and beer of many varieties on occassion. This book sounds excellent. An intelligent and caring heroine!
I have tried whisky. However, I must confess that in spite of my hopes of being like Marion from Indiana Jones, I did not care for the burn. But as I grow older that may change. I do enjoy wine and beer of many varieties on occassion. This book sounds excellent. An intelligent and caring heroine!
I have tried whisky. However, I must confess that in spite of my hopes of being like Marion from Indiana Jones, I did not care for the burn. But as I grow older that may change. I do enjoy wine and beer of many varieties on occassion. This book sounds excellent. An intelligent and caring heroine!
I don’t drink alcohol at all. Never acquired the taste. I’m all for a big mug of hot chocolate instead.
I loved The Lady & the Laird & would love to read more of your books.
I don’t drink alcohol at all. Never acquired the taste. I’m all for a big mug of hot chocolate instead.
I loved The Lady & the Laird & would love to read more of your books.
I don’t drink alcohol at all. Never acquired the taste. I’m all for a big mug of hot chocolate instead.
I loved The Lady & the Laird & would love to read more of your books.
I don’t drink alcohol at all. Never acquired the taste. I’m all for a big mug of hot chocolate instead.
I loved The Lady & the Laird & would love to read more of your books.
I don’t drink alcohol at all. Never acquired the taste. I’m all for a big mug of hot chocolate instead.
I loved The Lady & the Laird & would love to read more of your books.
My drinks of choice are coffee, iced tea, sugar free apple cider, and diet ginger ale. Alcohol and I parted ways a long time ago. At first it was fun; later not so much.
I’m going through an author’s back list, and I desperately want to know what happens to all of the brothers. But I’ve put this on my wish list. I will be on vacation starting 27 August with lots of time to read.
My drinks of choice are coffee, iced tea, sugar free apple cider, and diet ginger ale. Alcohol and I parted ways a long time ago. At first it was fun; later not so much.
I’m going through an author’s back list, and I desperately want to know what happens to all of the brothers. But I’ve put this on my wish list. I will be on vacation starting 27 August with lots of time to read.
My drinks of choice are coffee, iced tea, sugar free apple cider, and diet ginger ale. Alcohol and I parted ways a long time ago. At first it was fun; later not so much.
I’m going through an author’s back list, and I desperately want to know what happens to all of the brothers. But I’ve put this on my wish list. I will be on vacation starting 27 August with lots of time to read.
My drinks of choice are coffee, iced tea, sugar free apple cider, and diet ginger ale. Alcohol and I parted ways a long time ago. At first it was fun; later not so much.
I’m going through an author’s back list, and I desperately want to know what happens to all of the brothers. But I’ve put this on my wish list. I will be on vacation starting 27 August with lots of time to read.
My drinks of choice are coffee, iced tea, sugar free apple cider, and diet ginger ale. Alcohol and I parted ways a long time ago. At first it was fun; later not so much.
I’m going through an author’s back list, and I desperately want to know what happens to all of the brothers. But I’ve put this on my wish list. I will be on vacation starting 27 August with lots of time to read.
I have not gotten the chance to drink whiskey or alcohol yet. I just became legally in the US a few months ago but I doubt I’ll be drinking anytime soon. I’ve seen people drink and sometimes just a small amount makes them tipsy or drunk already.
I love your series very much though. I’ve read the first two book and I’ve been wanting to read a book about the oldest sister and now it is here.
I have not gotten the chance to drink whiskey or alcohol yet. I just became legally in the US a few months ago but I doubt I’ll be drinking anytime soon. I’ve seen people drink and sometimes just a small amount makes them tipsy or drunk already.
I love your series very much though. I’ve read the first two book and I’ve been wanting to read a book about the oldest sister and now it is here.
I have not gotten the chance to drink whiskey or alcohol yet. I just became legally in the US a few months ago but I doubt I’ll be drinking anytime soon. I’ve seen people drink and sometimes just a small amount makes them tipsy or drunk already.
I love your series very much though. I’ve read the first two book and I’ve been wanting to read a book about the oldest sister and now it is here.
I have not gotten the chance to drink whiskey or alcohol yet. I just became legally in the US a few months ago but I doubt I’ll be drinking anytime soon. I’ve seen people drink and sometimes just a small amount makes them tipsy or drunk already.
I love your series very much though. I’ve read the first two book and I’ve been wanting to read a book about the oldest sister and now it is here.
I have not gotten the chance to drink whiskey or alcohol yet. I just became legally in the US a few months ago but I doubt I’ll be drinking anytime soon. I’ve seen people drink and sometimes just a small amount makes them tipsy or drunk already.
I love your series very much though. I’ve read the first two book and I’ve been wanting to read a book about the oldest sister and now it is here.
I love an slushy diet coke!
I love an slushy diet coke!
I love an slushy diet coke!
I love an slushy diet coke!
I love an slushy diet coke!
Thanks, Tai! I’m like you – I don’t really care for the way whisky burns. I drank it when I was young but have given up now. That said, I had some with lemon and honey last night as a nightcap and it was great. But I didn’t waste a malt whisky on that!
Thanks, Tai! I’m like you – I don’t really care for the way whisky burns. I drank it when I was young but have given up now. That said, I had some with lemon and honey last night as a nightcap and it was great. But I didn’t waste a malt whisky on that!
Thanks, Tai! I’m like you – I don’t really care for the way whisky burns. I drank it when I was young but have given up now. That said, I had some with lemon and honey last night as a nightcap and it was great. But I didn’t waste a malt whisky on that!
Thanks, Tai! I’m like you – I don’t really care for the way whisky burns. I drank it when I was young but have given up now. That said, I had some with lemon and honey last night as a nightcap and it was great. But I didn’t waste a malt whisky on that!
Thanks, Tai! I’m like you – I don’t really care for the way whisky burns. I drank it when I was young but have given up now. That said, I had some with lemon and honey last night as a nightcap and it was great. But I didn’t waste a malt whisky on that!
Yum! Hot chocolate with whipped cream on top is one of my absolute favourites, Linda!
Yum! Hot chocolate with whipped cream on top is one of my absolute favourites, Linda!
Yum! Hot chocolate with whipped cream on top is one of my absolute favourites, Linda!
Yum! Hot chocolate with whipped cream on top is one of my absolute favourites, Linda!
Yum! Hot chocolate with whipped cream on top is one of my absolute favourites, Linda!
Thanks, Shannon! I got into drinking iced tea recently in Texas and wish I could get it here! The cider sounds delicious. Have a great vacation and enjoy your reading.
Thanks, Shannon! I got into drinking iced tea recently in Texas and wish I could get it here! The cider sounds delicious. Have a great vacation and enjoy your reading.
Thanks, Shannon! I got into drinking iced tea recently in Texas and wish I could get it here! The cider sounds delicious. Have a great vacation and enjoy your reading.
Thanks, Shannon! I got into drinking iced tea recently in Texas and wish I could get it here! The cider sounds delicious. Have a great vacation and enjoy your reading.
Thanks, Shannon! I got into drinking iced tea recently in Texas and wish I could get it here! The cider sounds delicious. Have a great vacation and enjoy your reading.
Hi Sandy! Thank you – I hope you enjoy Christina’s story! As for the alcohol – so true. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Drink wisely would be my motto.
Hi Sandy! Thank you – I hope you enjoy Christina’s story! As for the alcohol – so true. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Drink wisely would be my motto.
Hi Sandy! Thank you – I hope you enjoy Christina’s story! As for the alcohol – so true. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Drink wisely would be my motto.
Hi Sandy! Thank you – I hope you enjoy Christina’s story! As for the alcohol – so true. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Drink wisely would be my motto.
Hi Sandy! Thank you – I hope you enjoy Christina’s story! As for the alcohol – so true. It’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Drink wisely would be my motto.
Delicious, Sue!
Delicious, Sue!
Delicious, Sue!
Delicious, Sue!
Delicious, Sue!
Actually…I prefer a cup of dark roast organic coffee. Black. Guess it takes all kinds!
Say…is that second cover the Mills & Boone? It’s exceptionally lovely.
Cheers,
Faith
Actually…I prefer a cup of dark roast organic coffee. Black. Guess it takes all kinds!
Say…is that second cover the Mills & Boone? It’s exceptionally lovely.
Cheers,
Faith
Actually…I prefer a cup of dark roast organic coffee. Black. Guess it takes all kinds!
Say…is that second cover the Mills & Boone? It’s exceptionally lovely.
Cheers,
Faith
Actually…I prefer a cup of dark roast organic coffee. Black. Guess it takes all kinds!
Say…is that second cover the Mills & Boone? It’s exceptionally lovely.
Cheers,
Faith
Actually…I prefer a cup of dark roast organic coffee. Black. Guess it takes all kinds!
Say…is that second cover the Mills & Boone? It’s exceptionally lovely.
Cheers,
Faith
Well there is something exceptionally fine about a good cup of coffee, Faith!
Thank you, I’m glad you like the covers. The lady with the parasol is the MIRA UK cover. They always give my books very pretty covers.
Well there is something exceptionally fine about a good cup of coffee, Faith!
Thank you, I’m glad you like the covers. The lady with the parasol is the MIRA UK cover. They always give my books very pretty covers.
Well there is something exceptionally fine about a good cup of coffee, Faith!
Thank you, I’m glad you like the covers. The lady with the parasol is the MIRA UK cover. They always give my books very pretty covers.
Well there is something exceptionally fine about a good cup of coffee, Faith!
Thank you, I’m glad you like the covers. The lady with the parasol is the MIRA UK cover. They always give my books very pretty covers.
Well there is something exceptionally fine about a good cup of coffee, Faith!
Thank you, I’m glad you like the covers. The lady with the parasol is the MIRA UK cover. They always give my books very pretty covers.
I don’t enjoy whisky unless it’s used in cooking a dish. I do like red wine and in the summer a beer is tasty. I haven’t made any “secret” drinks but my father use to make glogg with his spin on it. It was delicious but you couldn’t drink more than “two fingers” of it. It was strong with alcohol. Tea is my drink of choice. I have to have it everyday.
I don’t enjoy whisky unless it’s used in cooking a dish. I do like red wine and in the summer a beer is tasty. I haven’t made any “secret” drinks but my father use to make glogg with his spin on it. It was delicious but you couldn’t drink more than “two fingers” of it. It was strong with alcohol. Tea is my drink of choice. I have to have it everyday.
I don’t enjoy whisky unless it’s used in cooking a dish. I do like red wine and in the summer a beer is tasty. I haven’t made any “secret” drinks but my father use to make glogg with his spin on it. It was delicious but you couldn’t drink more than “two fingers” of it. It was strong with alcohol. Tea is my drink of choice. I have to have it everyday.
I don’t enjoy whisky unless it’s used in cooking a dish. I do like red wine and in the summer a beer is tasty. I haven’t made any “secret” drinks but my father use to make glogg with his spin on it. It was delicious but you couldn’t drink more than “two fingers” of it. It was strong with alcohol. Tea is my drink of choice. I have to have it everyday.
I don’t enjoy whisky unless it’s used in cooking a dish. I do like red wine and in the summer a beer is tasty. I haven’t made any “secret” drinks but my father use to make glogg with his spin on it. It was delicious but you couldn’t drink more than “two fingers” of it. It was strong with alcohol. Tea is my drink of choice. I have to have it everyday.
I’m over alcohol. I could only drink it if it was heavily disguised. And wine and beer…..well. No. I’ve tried some very good stuff and it still tastes unpleasant.
Probably has something to do with my taste buds as all teas taste like dried grass to me. And I come from a tea drinking family!
As for soft drinks..I was cured of my taste for them when at the age of 5, I was give Coke Syrup. I didn’t touch another soft drink until I was 16! And still don’t care for them.
So what do I drink? Water. Milk. Orange Juice. Grape Juice. Apple Juice. Hot Chocolate occasionally. Hot spiced cider.
I’m over alcohol. I could only drink it if it was heavily disguised. And wine and beer…..well. No. I’ve tried some very good stuff and it still tastes unpleasant.
Probably has something to do with my taste buds as all teas taste like dried grass to me. And I come from a tea drinking family!
As for soft drinks..I was cured of my taste for them when at the age of 5, I was give Coke Syrup. I didn’t touch another soft drink until I was 16! And still don’t care for them.
So what do I drink? Water. Milk. Orange Juice. Grape Juice. Apple Juice. Hot Chocolate occasionally. Hot spiced cider.
I’m over alcohol. I could only drink it if it was heavily disguised. And wine and beer…..well. No. I’ve tried some very good stuff and it still tastes unpleasant.
Probably has something to do with my taste buds as all teas taste like dried grass to me. And I come from a tea drinking family!
As for soft drinks..I was cured of my taste for them when at the age of 5, I was give Coke Syrup. I didn’t touch another soft drink until I was 16! And still don’t care for them.
So what do I drink? Water. Milk. Orange Juice. Grape Juice. Apple Juice. Hot Chocolate occasionally. Hot spiced cider.
I’m over alcohol. I could only drink it if it was heavily disguised. And wine and beer…..well. No. I’ve tried some very good stuff and it still tastes unpleasant.
Probably has something to do with my taste buds as all teas taste like dried grass to me. And I come from a tea drinking family!
As for soft drinks..I was cured of my taste for them when at the age of 5, I was give Coke Syrup. I didn’t touch another soft drink until I was 16! And still don’t care for them.
So what do I drink? Water. Milk. Orange Juice. Grape Juice. Apple Juice. Hot Chocolate occasionally. Hot spiced cider.
I’m over alcohol. I could only drink it if it was heavily disguised. And wine and beer…..well. No. I’ve tried some very good stuff and it still tastes unpleasant.
Probably has something to do with my taste buds as all teas taste like dried grass to me. And I come from a tea drinking family!
As for soft drinks..I was cured of my taste for them when at the age of 5, I was give Coke Syrup. I didn’t touch another soft drink until I was 16! And still don’t care for them.
So what do I drink? Water. Milk. Orange Juice. Grape Juice. Apple Juice. Hot Chocolate occasionally. Hot spiced cider.
I am a single malt scotch drinker. I start with a really good one like Macallan 18 year old. I like a double on the rocks with a twist of lemon. I paid $18 at a bar one time to learn the proper way to prepare a twist. It was worth it. The second drink is just a blended scotch Iike Grant’s since my taste buds no longer can detect the nuance of a fine single malt. Still on my bucket list is a scotch tasting tour of Scotland. Just wish my dear husband and fellow scotch savorer was still around to share the adventure.
I am a single malt scotch drinker. I start with a really good one like Macallan 18 year old. I like a double on the rocks with a twist of lemon. I paid $18 at a bar one time to learn the proper way to prepare a twist. It was worth it. The second drink is just a blended scotch Iike Grant’s since my taste buds no longer can detect the nuance of a fine single malt. Still on my bucket list is a scotch tasting tour of Scotland. Just wish my dear husband and fellow scotch savorer was still around to share the adventure.
I am a single malt scotch drinker. I start with a really good one like Macallan 18 year old. I like a double on the rocks with a twist of lemon. I paid $18 at a bar one time to learn the proper way to prepare a twist. It was worth it. The second drink is just a blended scotch Iike Grant’s since my taste buds no longer can detect the nuance of a fine single malt. Still on my bucket list is a scotch tasting tour of Scotland. Just wish my dear husband and fellow scotch savorer was still around to share the adventure.
I am a single malt scotch drinker. I start with a really good one like Macallan 18 year old. I like a double on the rocks with a twist of lemon. I paid $18 at a bar one time to learn the proper way to prepare a twist. It was worth it. The second drink is just a blended scotch Iike Grant’s since my taste buds no longer can detect the nuance of a fine single malt. Still on my bucket list is a scotch tasting tour of Scotland. Just wish my dear husband and fellow scotch savorer was still around to share the adventure.
I am a single malt scotch drinker. I start with a really good one like Macallan 18 year old. I like a double on the rocks with a twist of lemon. I paid $18 at a bar one time to learn the proper way to prepare a twist. It was worth it. The second drink is just a blended scotch Iike Grant’s since my taste buds no longer can detect the nuance of a fine single malt. Still on my bucket list is a scotch tasting tour of Scotland. Just wish my dear husband and fellow scotch savorer was still around to share the adventure.
I don’t have a secret recipe, but I’ve developed a huge taste for Mexican Martinis. Sadly most places outside of the Austin area haven’t heard of them.
I don’t have a secret recipe, but I’ve developed a huge taste for Mexican Martinis. Sadly most places outside of the Austin area haven’t heard of them.
I don’t have a secret recipe, but I’ve developed a huge taste for Mexican Martinis. Sadly most places outside of the Austin area haven’t heard of them.
I don’t have a secret recipe, but I’ve developed a huge taste for Mexican Martinis. Sadly most places outside of the Austin area haven’t heard of them.
I don’t have a secret recipe, but I’ve developed a huge taste for Mexican Martinis. Sadly most places outside of the Austin area haven’t heard of them.
I love historical romances that have adventure. I’m looking forward to reading the series.
I love historical romances that have adventure. I’m looking forward to reading the series.
I love historical romances that have adventure. I’m looking forward to reading the series.
I love historical romances that have adventure. I’m looking forward to reading the series.
I love historical romances that have adventure. I’m looking forward to reading the series.
Wow, Jackie, the glogg sounds amazing! I’m a huge fan of tea too. I have several cups a day.
Wow, Jackie, the glogg sounds amazing! I’m a huge fan of tea too. I have several cups a day.
Wow, Jackie, the glogg sounds amazing! I’m a huge fan of tea too. I have several cups a day.
Wow, Jackie, the glogg sounds amazing! I’m a huge fan of tea too. I have several cups a day.
Wow, Jackie, the glogg sounds amazing! I’m a huge fan of tea too. I have several cups a day.
Hot spiced cider. Yum! Sounds delicious and very warming, Vicki!
Hot spiced cider. Yum! Sounds delicious and very warming, Vicki!
Hot spiced cider. Yum! Sounds delicious and very warming, Vicki!
Hot spiced cider. Yum! Sounds delicious and very warming, Vicki!
Hot spiced cider. Yum! Sounds delicious and very warming, Vicki!
Nancy Alice, that sounds great! If you would like a fellow traveller on your whisky tour I volunteer!
Nancy Alice, that sounds great! If you would like a fellow traveller on your whisky tour I volunteer!
Nancy Alice, that sounds great! If you would like a fellow traveller on your whisky tour I volunteer!
Nancy Alice, that sounds great! If you would like a fellow traveller on your whisky tour I volunteer!
Nancy Alice, that sounds great! If you would like a fellow traveller on your whisky tour I volunteer!
I’ve just looked up Mexican Martini, Glenda. Sounds delicious. I must give that a try.
I’ve just looked up Mexican Martini, Glenda. Sounds delicious. I must give that a try.
I’ve just looked up Mexican Martini, Glenda. Sounds delicious. I must give that a try.
I’ve just looked up Mexican Martini, Glenda. Sounds delicious. I must give that a try.
I’ve just looked up Mexican Martini, Glenda. Sounds delicious. I must give that a try.
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the Scottish Brides!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the Scottish Brides!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the Scottish Brides!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the Scottish Brides!
Thank you! I hope you enjoy the Scottish Brides!
I much prefer Whiskey to other hard liquors, tho I have it more in the winter than the summer – some of my favorite drinks with whiskey are a whiskey sour or an Irish Coffee
I much prefer Whiskey to other hard liquors, tho I have it more in the winter than the summer – some of my favorite drinks with whiskey are a whiskey sour or an Irish Coffee
I much prefer Whiskey to other hard liquors, tho I have it more in the winter than the summer – some of my favorite drinks with whiskey are a whiskey sour or an Irish Coffee
I much prefer Whiskey to other hard liquors, tho I have it more in the winter than the summer – some of my favorite drinks with whiskey are a whiskey sour or an Irish Coffee
I much prefer Whiskey to other hard liquors, tho I have it more in the winter than the summer – some of my favorite drinks with whiskey are a whiskey sour or an Irish Coffee