Bas Sinclair, named for death by his father as his mother died giving birth to him. Bas and his 3 older brothers were called the four horsemen. He meets Shana Drummond while she is on the run with her nephew and ends up near his cottage in the woods. After hearing part of her story, Bas promises to help Shana but she lives one night but leaves her nephew at home with Bas. Bas, who is not comfortably around people, takes the baby to his brother's castle Grinigoe for his sister to care for until he can find Shana. While at the castle, he is tasked with deciding the fate of someone that one of the clans is accusing of murdering the chief's son. Bas soon learns that the person he has been called to execute is none other than Shana. He and his family make arrangements to rescue Shana and her nephew and also end up saving her sister, Ivy, who is married to the chief of the clan holding them hostage. A very adventurous tale of love, betrayal and family/clan loyalty. It was great to see Bas experience love and overcoming the stigma he had associated with his name and the unfortunate task he was given by his sire. Looking forward to Hannah's story.

I received an ARC from Netgalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review

Don't judge a man by his reputation!

I've been looking forward to this story, as I felt the author set up the executioner side of Bàs in the earlier books while still giving us a tiny glimpse of his inner self as the youngest brother. I really loved the way his character was developed, the balance between the profession he never had a choice about and the gentle, vulnerable man he's always been inside.

Shana is light and love and life, and she's the perfect counterpart to both the dark side of Bàs and his true decency. The conflict that brought them together and the way it played out among all the clans was breathtaking in scope and drama and I loved every bit of it.

This book was everything I was hoping for and then some. If you enjoy medieval highlanders, you owe it to yourself to read this series and, really, everything by this author. Each book is an exquisite adventure with an epic love story at its heart. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

This book definitely was great! There is an opposites-attract trope happening, with Bas is "Death" and Shana is a Midwife, bringing people into the world.

Both were strong characters, and this was a super enjoyable read. I recommend!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this read.

While this is thefourth book in the series, I read it as a stand-alone with no trouble. I loved it so will now be heading back to read the first three books.
Set in the north of Scotland late in the sixteenth century, Highland Beast is a real page turner. It’s very much a character-driven story and the two leads are both immediately likeable.
Despite being known as the Horseman of Death and the Sinclair clan executioner, Bàs Sinclair is a gentle, caring man, who loves animas more than people. He has quite the menagerie living with him, inclduding Betty, the red squirrel, whose life he saved and who now lives in his house, occasionally peppering unsuspecting visitors with nuts.
Shana Drummond enters Bàs’s life early in the book after his pet wolf Beo frescues her from a pack of wolves. She’s a nurturer at heart, having trained as a midwife, and it’s very clear that her first priority is to protect her baby nephew Edward and rescue her sister Ivy. Despite her attraction to Bàs, she has trouble accepting his profession. I loved that he showed her that sometimes helping people to die is a great kindness.
The romance between these two fairly sizzles and when that’s not centre stage, there’s plenty of action to keep readers interested. I really loved this book.

𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧 took me back to my early romance reading days. Back then I only ever read historical romance books. Once I started reading contemporary romance, I stopped. But this book reminded me of just how much I love this genre/trope.

Bàs Sinclair won me over from page one and was a strong reminder to never judge a book (or man) by its cover. I loved everything about him. He was such an amazing character. Big. Strong. Kindhearted. And so very misunderstood. He made this the five star read that it is. I also loved Shana. She was the most imperfect, yet perfect match for Bàs.

𝗛𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗕𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧 gets the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

Sons of Sinclair series continues with Bas (Death) Sinclair. He swings a cold, brutal sword to serve justice throughout the highlands. He’s the tortured, misunderstood brother whose mother died birthing him. While I’ve enjoyed reading this series, this book left me a bit bored. I wanted more highlander romance and less of the story about Shana’s sister. This couple were hardly together in the story, and I wanted to witness more of Bas romantic side when alone with one who making him feel.

Thank you Entangled Publishing for the complimentary copy.

Highland Beast by Heather McCollum
Sons of Sinclair #4

Youngest of the Sinclair sons, Bàs, meets the woman that will become his mate in this superb historical romance.

What I liked:
* Bàs: given the name Death at birth, raised to be the clan executioner, had a difficult father, loves animals, is gentle inside but has had to harden himself to do his job, more than he and others realize, is rather taken with Shana
* Shana: midwife, loving sister, has suffered loss, caring, kind, strong, protective, reacts without thinking things through, slowly comes to care for Bàs
* The menagerie at Bàs’s house with cats, dogs, cows, a wolf, a squirrel and more – anything with a name is safe on his property
* Getting to see Bàs’s older brothers, their wives, and children
* The romance between Bàs and Shana and how it evolved in a believable way, their communication with and care for one another
* The plot, pacing, story, and writing
* That I was drawn into the story, felt part of it and cared about the conclusion
* Knowing that the Sinclair sister, Hannah, will have a book of her own soon
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about the era, the witch prickers, and how some people could be so evil and care so little about others

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

The fourth Sinclair brother, Bás, the Horseman of Death, proves he hides his true self to the woman and child he saves. A man of patience, kindness and compassion, death has always been his moniker since his father told him the identity of his first victim. Bás may change as the executioner when the woman he loves brings him hope for a new life. The Sinclair band of four brothers, wives and a sister are a force to be reckoned with. The long awaited book for Bás was worth the wait.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

Wow! What a Fantastic Story! Highland Beast, the fourth in the Son's of Sinclair series will keep you spellbound as it takes you on a rollercoaster ride that weaves a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, suspense and family unity. Heather McCollum has written a story that's filled with characters that weave a story that will hold you entralled as their individual personalities become more than just part of the tale they come off the pages and pull you in, sizzling passion, the book flowed well from one subject to another without being forced, plot brims with tension-building twist, and great dialogue. With setting descriptions and action sequences that are wonderfully vivid that brings the story to life and as the unrest escalates the suspense builds and uncertainties abound which brings this read together perfectly!

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing it.

If you like highlander’s with passion, brawn and sensitivity, read this book
I have eagerly awaited Bás Sinclair’s story. It is so touching when we read how he became aware that his father’s expectations may have differed considerably from the child he might have been. At five-years-old Bás was more inclined to pick flowers over sword fighting, but alas his mad father has groomed all four of his boys to be the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. I will admit that when they begin to recite the verses from Revelation describing their role, it can be thrilling. Although each book encompasses its own love story, it is truly best to read them all to get a greater appreciation of their “trials and tribulations.” Lastly, there will be a book about the lone sister, Hannah. I am so glad.
Bás is the Horseman of Death. His name means death and his father named him that because his mother died giving life to him. Now he carries his title like a burden until he meets Shana Drummond. Shana is found by Bás after his wolf Beó raises the alarm. Bás finds Shana who has fallen from a tree while trying to save a baby from wolves. Shana is a midwife which is a total 180-degree shift from the Horseman of Death. Can they be friends, or more?
This was a total page-turner. Beyond the romance, there’s a very intriguing story which will have you rooting for the Horsemen and their wives as well as Shana’s little family. Some moments were so stirring, so electrifying. I LOVED THIS BOOK. When it comes out, I must read Hannah’s story who has strength in a very quiet way. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Entangled/NetGalley.

A spicy Scottish Highland historical romance full of highlanders, Witches, Midwives, Castles, the Horseman of Death, clans, battles, and much, much, more from the Sinclair family as they fight to survive.

Bas Sinclair is a lover of animals and a savior to those who can't speak for themselves. Growing up he associates death from his touch. What will it take to recognize that not everyone he loves will die from his touch?

Shana tries to do the right thing for her sister and winds up injured and running from those who wish her dead. What will happen when the man who rescues her is the Horseman of Death? Can she escape her fate? What will happen when she discovers her feelings and that they are meant to be?

For ease of reading Heather includes a "mini" dictionary of frequently used Scots Gaelic, Foreign, Old English words to make reading easier. In addition, the epigraphs are welcome nuggets before each chapter.

This was a highly entertaining read! It is the fourth book in the series but can be read as a standalone. It was my first read by this author, and I definitely want to go back and read the rest of the series. Bas was such an interesting and complex character, and I really felt for him. Shana was such a strong heroine, and I absolutely loved how she made Bas feel and how their relationship became and grew. I would highly recommend this book!

This was a good pace story with engaging characters. How I felt for Bas..with a father like his! What a way to bring up a small child! No wonder he felt as he did. Shana was so different, she was a midwife and was all about preserving life and caring for her sister. She did feel a connection to Bas but she didn’t really know him. Also, she had an enemy in her brother in law and he was a vicious man. I loved the strong family ties of the Sinclairs including the banter and how they always back each other up. I was hoping Bas would have some lightness in his life. There are some dangerous moments and passionate times. I enjoyed how the author described the scene, particularly when the armies were gathered, it was made it easy to imagine the scene. I’m looking forward to reading the sister’s story now. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was an exciting new adventure by one of my favorite authors. Ms McCollum writes her stories that show a true talent in her craft. Weaving so much into making the reader hold their breath while turning the pages to see what the next one will bring. I just adore this series about brothers who stick together through thick and thin. The characters were fully developed with thoughts and feelings of their own. It had me at first chapter and never let go.
You have a man who grew up to be a executioner in his clan to claim justice for any deeds that needed his skill. His name is Bas and he wears a skull face mask when doling out his duties. He is a gentle man when he's with his animals, not like that around people who are afraid of him.
One day he's to kill a woman who supposedly done away with her sister's baby. But things are not all what they seem to be. The only thing that Shana Drummond has done was to protect her sister's baby from her hellish brother in law. She finds sanctuary with Bas who will give her protection. These two find a love that will heal hearts and find a life which was meant to be together.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.

Bàs Sinclair is the cold and brutal hand and sword of justice across the Highlands. He’s built himself a home on the edge of his family's lands where he can be himself & care for his animals. One day he finds an unconscious young woman & a young baby, when she recovers she leaves to rescue her sister, Ivy. Then he is called to execute a midwife for her crimes, he cannot raise his weapon. For Bàs already knows this lovely, young woman. Now her cruel, merciless brother-in-law has called upon Bàs to have Shana killed for crimes she didn’t commit. But mercy from Bàs can only lead to one thing: war among the clans.
The fourth book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. Bàs has been something on an enigma throughout the series & I loved getting to know the real man & it was a revelation as he's nothing like the image he's portrayed for years, he melted my heart when Hamish died. Shana is a woman who has known grief but has become stronger because of it. I loved that Shana saw the real Bàs & I loved how they grew closer & fell in love. Their journey to a HEA wasn’t smooth but it made for an enthralling read. There’s a horrid villain who did get his justly deserved comeuppance
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

"Highland Beast" by Heather McCollum is an excellent addition to the Sons of Sinclair series. This book centers around the character Bàs Sinclair, a cold and brutal executioner who has been shrouded in mystery since the first book in the series.

The story follows Bàs as he grapples with his identity and comes to terms with his past. He is a man who has been forced from childhood to become something he despises, and it takes him a long time to reconcile the different parts of himself. The author does an excellent job of showing the different facets of Bàs's personality, including his unfeeling, heartless, and distanced outward persona, which is very different from the guilty, lonely, and sensitive man he is inside.

The story also introduces the character of Shana, a brave and kind midwife who will do anything to protect her sister. When her brother-in-law calls upon Bàs to have Shana killed for crimes she didn’t commit, Shana finds safety with Bàs. Over time, the two develop feelings for each other, and Shana helps Bàs see himself as more than just a killer.

The book also has a lot of suspense and intrigue, as Shana is pulled into danger and murderous plots that go way deeper than she imagined. Luckily, Bàs and his brothers are there to help her. The author also includes a menagerie of non-human friends, and Bàs has a gift for caring for, befriending, and understanding these creatures.

Overall, "Highland Beast" is a well-written and engaging addition to the Sons of Sinclair series. The characters are well-drawn, and the story is a nice mix of action, intrigue, character growth, and romance. However, it's worth noting that the book includes elements of violence and abuse, so it may not be suitable for all readers.

I liked this book. Here we get to know the story of Bàs and Shana.
Bàs, whose name means death, has been trained since he was a child to become the executioner of a scottish clan. One day, he meets Shana, who’s trying to escape from a pack of wolves, and he rescues her.
They slowly fall in love with each other, but they have to fight a lot of difficulties.
I loved the two main characters, they are opposites, but that’s probably the reason why they fit so well. Bàs is fierce, but also sweet and struggling with insecurities, Shana is strong and always manages to see the beauty and love in the world.
I also liked the setting of the story, the scottish Highlands, the nature, and the animals.
I didn’t like Bàs father’s behaviour, especially because of the fact that he seemed to lack sympathy towards his own son, but I also can understand that in the 16th century everything was very different than today.
A good book in any case.

Bas Sinclair, the Horseman of Death, finds true love. He has always been a solitary soul until he meets Shana Drummond. This story, like the others, is filled with interesting facts. The plot of the story is interesting and has surprises. Readers will be delighted with outcome as Bas comes into his own and fights hard for his happiness.

I'm such a huge fan of this series and I've been looking forward to reading Bàs's story for awhile now. I'm so happy he's finally getting his turn. On the surface, Bàs appears to be cold and merciless, dedicated to his duty as executioner for Clan Sinclair. But deep down, Bàs is tormented with guilt and lives a life of solitude. When Shana whirls into his life, he doesn't know what to do with these new feelings and revelations. She gets under his skin and forces him to look deep within himself in a new light.

I definitely liked the dynamic between these two, would have loved to see them together more! There were times when the Ivy/Edward/Erskine drama overshadowed Bàs/Shana's story but I still really enjoyed the plot. I also loved all of the animals! Bàs's love of animals was one of my favorite aspects of his personality. It added a really nice touch to the story.

Overall, I think this was a really sweet story with some exciting plot elements. I liked the characters, and was very happy to have gotten Bàs's story. Very much looking forward to reading the sister's story!

4 stars

You can read all of my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.

This is a sweet historical fiction romance set in medieval Scotland. This is book 4 in the series, but can be read as a stand alone. This book focuses on the youngest brother, Bas Sinclair, dubbed the fourth Horseman of the Apocalypse, Death. Not only a fierce warrior, he is the executioner of the clan's Justice. He dreads his job but does his duty. However, the way all but his family fear and avoid him weighs heavily on him. He's resigned himself to lead a lonely, solitary life, until one day Shana falls into his life. Literally.

Shana is a midwife that attended her sister Ivy's birth. When she learns that Ivy's despicable clan-leader husband Erskine plans to kill Ivy's son believing it not to be his, she sneaks the babe out of the castle and runs. As she darts through the forest she's injured trying to avoid a pack of wolves. Bas finds her and cares for her and the baby in his hidden cabin. Shana sneaks out to rescue Ivy but is caught and ordered executed for "killing" Ivy's baby. When Bas discovers that Shana is the person he's supposed to execute, he stays his hand, putting his clan at war with Erskine's.

I really enjoyed Shana and Bas and their slow-burn romance was sweet to read. It takes all of Shana's care and patience to convince Bas he's worthy of kindness and love. Bas still doesn't believe that she'll actually stay with him, but he's determined to free her and Ivy from Erskine's control and doesn't care if it means war. I love the interactions between the brothers, and their gentle teasing provided great levity to the story. This is a quick and easy read that will provide you an afternoon of sweet romantic reading.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC. All opinions are my own.