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When Ailis O'Brien's family is murdered in the Highlands, she vows to find the murderer and repay the blood debt. Though not of his clan, Laird Gavin MacPherson vows to aid her. Will their growing love fill the emptiness in their hearts or will a talisman shatter it forcing them to choose between love and vengeance?

381 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 14, 2011

12 people are currently reading
65 people want to read

About the author

Deborah Gafford

5 books45 followers
Award-winning author Deborah Gafford is known for her "love conquers all" romance novels. Whether an uproariously funny award-winning romantic comedy or historical romance set in the Highlands of medieval Scotland, Deborah Gafford writes the kind of books readers love to read.

Her talented world-building skills transport you back in time to the Scottish Highlands and create action-packed romance filled with castles, clans, strong heroines, and kilt-clad romantic heroes.

Readers have described her writing as "…laugh out-loud hilarious" and "…captivating and beautifully written with well-developed, complex characters, that engage your interest from start to finish."

Her romantic comedy, You're in Good Hands with Al Tate, received the Crowned Heart Award, was a Finalist for InD'Tale Magazine's RONÉ AWARD for best contemporary romance of 2012, and is a Finalist in the 2015 PRIZE WRITER International Competition in romance.

Highlander's Bride, book 1 in her Heart of the Highlander series, received the Crowned Heart Award, and is a Finalist in the 2015 PRIZE WRITER International Competition in romance as well.

After a rewarding 23-year career as a teacher which included living in Japan and visiting Korea, Hong Kong, Mexico, and Scotland, Deborah now lives in Texas with her high school sweetheart husband who is her role model for her romantic heroes.

Deborah loves hearing from her readers. You can contact her through:

Email: deborah@deborahgafford.com
Website: www.deborahgafford.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Deborah...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeborahGafford
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/1010106...

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5 stars
30 (47%)
4 stars
17 (26%)
3 stars
12 (19%)
2 stars
3 (4%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
Profile Image for Scott Sillars.
217 reviews1 follower
August 8, 2019
Riveting

I found this story to be very enjoyable and worthwhile
I found that there were parts that I didn't know what would happen next
I would recommend it for fans of Scottish historical fiction
Profile Image for Kathie.
8 reviews
November 29, 2012
I received this book from the author as a result of winning a contest.


A wonderful story. Ailis's family has been murdered and her only clue is a talisman and a questionable memory of a kilt. Taken in and cared for by a clan whose colors seem to resemble those in her memory, she is torn between her feelings of welcome and her vow to avenge her family.
I was drawn into the story quickly and shared Ailis's feelings throughout the book. From her friendship with Megan to her growing feelings for Gavin, her own insecurities about the possible guilt of someone in this clan being her families murderer and her own oath of revenge. This story has it all and kept me turning those pages slowly to savor each word.
Very well written with just enough Scottish brogue to keep you in the highlands without being hard to follow.I will recommend this book as well as the others in this series to anyone who enjoys highland romance novels.
Profile Image for Suzie.
6 reviews8 followers
March 4, 2012
This is my first novel by Deborah Gafford, and it was not the best book I had ever read....

The first 30% of the book drags on about how our main character Ailis was traumatized by her families murder. I understand that it was a trying time, and sets up the framework for the rest of the book- however it seemed to drag on FOREVER. Once we get past this oppressive portion of the book however, the story really takes off and is quite pleasant. Hence the four star rating. I enjoyed the last 70% of the book, and was glad that I made it through the front portion.

It's an alright way to spend an afternoon, not sorry I purchased it, but may or may not re-read.
Profile Image for Libby.
24 reviews2 followers
October 26, 2012
A must read for any lover of highland romances! It is so well written. The story is easy to follow and the characters are very believable. Many times I find that 'highlander' tales that are written using spelling that infers an accent lose me along the way, they become complicated and I have to constantly reread passages but that is not the case here. There is just enough included to remind you were the story is set without being overwhelming. Definitely one of my favourite authors.
Profile Image for Margie.
47 reviews
October 5, 2013
As I had said before I really don't read historical romance books, but was looking forward to read this one and I was not disappointed . This book is set in the 14th century scottland and has everything from murder , secrets and passion, mrs gafford takes you right there with the characters and you feel like you are living at that time and place along with them. this is a must read even if you don't like historical romance you will love these ones .
Profile Image for Lori.
202 reviews12 followers
February 13, 2013
I actually enjoyed this book more than book 1 in the series, and I didn't think that was possible. I adored Ailis and loved seeing how the story progressed her and Gavin and the pursuit of vengeance. I am definitely a fan of this series and can't wait for Book 3. :)
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews

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