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Wicked Willful Highlanders #1
Highlanders Hold Grudges
He kidnapped her to save his clan, not to lose his heart.
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and no one is more desperate than Highlander Alasdair MacRae. His clan is on the verge of disaster, thanks to continuous raids from the lying, thieving, murdering MacKenzies. Their latest strike has left Alasdair’s family on the precipice of starvation and his brother badly wounded. The time has come to hit back, and what better blow to deliver than to kidnap his enemy’s daughter and use her to negotiate much-needed peace. His plan is simple: wed the lass. It’s well-known that she’s beloved by her father, and the doting Highlander certainly won’t go to war with Alasdair’s clan if he’s married to the man’s daughter. Once the vows are spoken, he plans to send her to a nice little cottage on his land, where she can live her life as she wishes, and he can live his as if he’s not wed. But his plan meets an obstacle he didn’t foresee, and suddenly, Alasdair finds himself fighting to protect a woman he thought was his enemy and questioning whether he’s wooing the lass to see out his scheme or to truly capture her heart?
When Maeve MacKenzie discovers her adoring father has denied his own heart’s desire so that she may find hers, she resigns herself to stop delaying and finally honor the betrothal to her childhood friend. Their union will strengthen her clan and give her father a second chance at love. But when tragedy strikes, she’s snatched from her home by Alasdair MacRae: the barbaric Highland beast who long ago awakened cravings in her that are impossible to forget. As the heiress of a strategic fortress coveted throughout the Highlands, she’s well-aware the Highland fiend wishes to gain her castle. She has no intention of falling prey to his transparent ploy to woo her, though, and every intention of escaping him. Except the blasted Highlander still possesses an extraordinary ability to kiss, and beyond that, he has the nerve to display seemingly honorable qualities at every turn. How’s a lass to know if it’s all simply a ruse by a cunning, too-handsome foe or if the man she believed to be her enemy is really her greatest hope?
Winning Maeve’s love isn’t something Alasdair ever expected to want, but the sharp-tongued, iron-willed lass ignites a yearning in him that can’t be denied. And when enemies threaten to take her from him forever, Alasdair will do whatever it takes to make her his, even if he has to fight a war to win his bride and lay claim to her heart.
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and no one is more desperate than Highlander Alasdair MacRae. His clan is on the verge of disaster, thanks to continuous raids from the lying, thieving, murdering MacKenzies. Their latest strike has left Alasdair’s family on the precipice of starvation and his brother badly wounded. The time has come to hit back, and what better blow to deliver than to kidnap his enemy’s daughter and use her to negotiate much-needed peace. His plan is simple: wed the lass. It’s well-known that she’s beloved by her father, and the doting Highlander certainly won’t go to war with Alasdair’s clan if he’s married to the man’s daughter. Once the vows are spoken, he plans to send her to a nice little cottage on his land, where she can live her life as she wishes, and he can live his as if he’s not wed. But his plan meets an obstacle he didn’t foresee, and suddenly, Alasdair finds himself fighting to protect a woman he thought was his enemy and questioning whether he’s wooing the lass to see out his scheme or to truly capture her heart?
When Maeve MacKenzie discovers her adoring father has denied his own heart’s desire so that she may find hers, she resigns herself to stop delaying and finally honor the betrothal to her childhood friend. Their union will strengthen her clan and give her father a second chance at love. But when tragedy strikes, she’s snatched from her home by Alasdair MacRae: the barbaric Highland beast who long ago awakened cravings in her that are impossible to forget. As the heiress of a strategic fortress coveted throughout the Highlands, she’s well-aware the Highland fiend wishes to gain her castle. She has no intention of falling prey to his transparent ploy to woo her, though, and every intention of escaping him. Except the blasted Highlander still possesses an extraordinary ability to kiss, and beyond that, he has the nerve to display seemingly honorable qualities at every turn. How’s a lass to know if it’s all simply a ruse by a cunning, too-handsome foe or if the man she believed to be her enemy is really her greatest hope?
Winning Maeve’s love isn’t something Alasdair ever expected to want, but the sharp-tongued, iron-willed lass ignites a yearning in him that can’t be denied. And when enemies threaten to take her from him forever, Alasdair will do whatever it takes to make her his, even if he has to fight a war to win his bride and lay claim to her heart.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 11, 2023
853 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Julie Johnstone
96 books764 followersJulie Johnstone is a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author. Scottish historical romance and Regency historical romance featuring highlanders and aristocrats are her love, and she enjoys creating both with a hefty dose of twists, plenty of heartstring tugs, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Her books have been dubbed "fabulously entertaining and engaging," making readers cry, laugh, and swoon. Johnstone lives in Alabama with her very own lowlander husband, her two children - the heir and the spare, her snobby cat, and her perpetually happy dog.
In her spare time she enjoys way too much coffee balanced by super hot yoga, reading, and traveling.
Sign up for her newsletter here: http://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/newsl...
Her books have been dubbed "fabulously entertaining and engaging," making readers cry, laugh, and swoon. Johnstone lives in Alabama with her very own lowlander husband, her two children - the heir and the spare, her snobby cat, and her perpetually happy dog.
In her spare time she enjoys way too much coffee balanced by super hot yoga, reading, and traveling.
Sign up for her newsletter here: http://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/newsl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 19, 2024
3 💘🤔🤔⭐️s
The story was interesting, the plot had intrigue, suspense, betrayal and the flow was good.
The ow drama could have been shorter.
It just didn’t grip me and I was anxious to finish it.
The story was interesting, the plot had intrigue, suspense, betrayal and the flow was good.
The ow drama could have been shorter.
It just didn’t grip me and I was anxious to finish it.
May 21, 2023
One true love
As a girl of 15, Maeve had been kissed by a boy in the forest and fell in love! But she was promised to another. Several years later she still thought about the boy, and still was promised to another. But a series of events brings about the need for her decision to be made. But luckily it was taken from her. True love prevailed but not without some tragedy. Trust no one. I really liked this story and I pleased with the ending and epilogue. There is OW drama unfortunately with the Lairds prior mistress. He broke off with her when he went to steal his bride but she didn't get the message. But once Alisdair found her again, he was true to Maeve. There are kidnappings, murders, betrayals and twins. So be prepared for a ride!
As a girl of 15, Maeve had been kissed by a boy in the forest and fell in love! But she was promised to another. Several years later she still thought about the boy, and still was promised to another. But a series of events brings about the need for her decision to be made. But luckily it was taken from her. True love prevailed but not without some tragedy. Trust no one. I really liked this story and I pleased with the ending and epilogue. There is OW drama unfortunately with the Lairds prior mistress. He broke off with her when he went to steal his bride but she didn't get the message. But once Alisdair found her again, he was true to Maeve. There are kidnappings, murders, betrayals and twins. So be prepared for a ride!
June 4, 2023
It's okay.
The heroine is a strong character who doesn't go easily.
The plot is not difficult to see straight away.
There is other woman drama, an ex, she conives and plots and makes a blatant offer to the Hero.
The Hero is not interested in looking outside his marriage.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
The heroine is a strong character who doesn't go easily.
The plot is not difficult to see straight away.
There is other woman drama, an ex, she conives and plots and makes a blatant offer to the Hero.
The Hero is not interested in looking outside his marriage.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2023
Desperate times call for desperate measures, and Alasdair MacRae's clan is on the verge of starvation. So he has a plan kidnap his enemies daughter & marry her. When Maeve MacKenzie discovers her adoring father has denied his own heart’s desire so that she may find hers, she resigns herself to stop delaying and finally honour the betrothal to her childhood friend Colin. Then she’s kidnapped by Alasdair MacRae. she has every intention of escaping him. Except he still possesses an extraordinary ability to kiss, and beyond that, he has the nerve to display seemingly honourable qualities at every turn.
The first in a new series & another very well written engrossing captivating read. I was drawn in from the prologue & left with a smile on my face a few hours later. The characters have depth & are well portrayed, the pace is very good & the chemistry sizzles. I loved both Alasdair & Maeve who met several years ago & neither has forgotten that encounter but now they lock horns, their verbal banter is a delight, their chemistry is hot but can they trust each other? I loved the mix of intrigue, betrayal, humour & romance. The secondary characters are also a delight especially a wily priest & a conniving healer. I devoured this book in a sitting & highly recommend it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The first in a new series & another very well written engrossing captivating read. I was drawn in from the prologue & left with a smile on my face a few hours later. The characters have depth & are well portrayed, the pace is very good & the chemistry sizzles. I loved both Alasdair & Maeve who met several years ago & neither has forgotten that encounter but now they lock horns, their verbal banter is a delight, their chemistry is hot but can they trust each other? I loved the mix of intrigue, betrayal, humour & romance. The secondary characters are also a delight especially a wily priest & a conniving healer. I devoured this book in a sitting & highly recommend it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 12, 2023
Book: Highlanders Hold Grudges
Author: Julie Johnstone
Series: Wicked Willful Highlanders, Book #1
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire
Book Length: 290 pages
Release Date: May 11, 2023
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5 Saltire Flags
Scottish Highlands, 1262
Five years later
Maeve MacKenzie knows the MacRae's are their enemies yet Alastair MacRae’s kiss was still the most rare and extraordinary thing she ever felt! Of course this was before she knew she was kissing the enemy. An enemy she gave her most favorite and unique ribbon in remembrance of their secret kiss.
For Laird Alastair MacKenzie, Maeve is the perfect woman not only in her beauty but in intelligence too. She could down the most deadly animal in the forest with perfect accuracy with her bow and arrow! It was why he was following her five years ago before he discovered what clan she belonged to.
Unfortunately desperate times call for desperate measures, even when the actions seem very extreme! Especially when you need to do it out of revenge and desperation! Especially when this clan has murdered their your Da, the MacRae Laird, stolen their animals and destroyed their foodstock! Now Alasdair is the Laird, where he has no choice and wants peace between the clans. Even though he knows many of his clan won’t be happy to have a MacKenzie as a wife!
As for grudges some people want revenge, some hold grudges and some try to make the clan’s chieftain change its mind by forcing its hand. For the MacKenzie’s this by stealing what is most precious to them. It is the MacKenzie’s daughter, by forcing a marriage between the two enemy clans so they can stop ravaging their clan so they have a clan alliance and live in peace. The problem is Maeve is already betrothed through the powerful Fraser clan. It is to the chieftains son too and this clan is another enemy of the MacRae’s! It is also to a man Maeve respects, but does not love yet she being a dutiful daughter she will do as her father commands. The thing is her father finally decides Maeve should pick her own husband with a man she is passionate about. He goes to the Frasers to break off the betrothal realizing his daughter should marry for love but returns dead from a supposed riding accident. Except he was an expert horseback rider which sounds rather suspicious and the Frasers claim the betrothal was never broken. Is that the truth or a deceitful lie?
Furthermore, Alasdair MacRae is filled with guilt and not expecting to abduct this chieftain's daughter on the saddest day of her life! A daughter who will become Laird to Eilean Donan castle on this day, unknown to her abductors Alasdair MacRae and his best friend Brodick. On top of that-Alastair has been obsessed with Maeve for the past five years, since sharing their extraordinary kiss yet she just wants to go home. Even though this is the man no other had ever measured up to. As both want to marry for love but so much about deceit abd dishonesty clouds their judgement where Maeve feels escape is her only option. However she does not see the reality or the dangers that could befall her!
However, trust is a difficult thing for Maeve, especially since every man that tried to court her was only using her for her title, lands and Eilean Donan Castle. The thing with Alastair is she did have feelings for him. Plus all the MacRae’s were saying the most horrid and despicable things about her clan and father that she knew in her heart was untrue! On top of this a former mistress is trying to come between Alasdair and Maeve which only makes Maeve questions Alasdair’s integrity and loyalty even more? There is so much against this joining starting with dishonesty and trickery. Will Alasdair and Maeve ever truly be honest with each other and open their hearts?
What future did Maeve and Alasdair have read and find out in Julie Johnstone’s brand new series “Wicked Willful Highlanders”.
Buy Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Highlanders-Ho...
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
Author: Julie Johnstone
Series: Wicked Willful Highlanders, Book #1
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire
Book Length: 290 pages
Release Date: May 11, 2023
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5 Saltire Flags
Scottish Highlands, 1262
Five years later
Maeve MacKenzie knows the MacRae's are their enemies yet Alastair MacRae’s kiss was still the most rare and extraordinary thing she ever felt! Of course this was before she knew she was kissing the enemy. An enemy she gave her most favorite and unique ribbon in remembrance of their secret kiss.
For Laird Alastair MacKenzie, Maeve is the perfect woman not only in her beauty but in intelligence too. She could down the most deadly animal in the forest with perfect accuracy with her bow and arrow! It was why he was following her five years ago before he discovered what clan she belonged to.
Unfortunately desperate times call for desperate measures, even when the actions seem very extreme! Especially when you need to do it out of revenge and desperation! Especially when this clan has murdered their your Da, the MacRae Laird, stolen their animals and destroyed their foodstock! Now Alasdair is the Laird, where he has no choice and wants peace between the clans. Even though he knows many of his clan won’t be happy to have a MacKenzie as a wife!
As for grudges some people want revenge, some hold grudges and some try to make the clan’s chieftain change its mind by forcing its hand. For the MacKenzie’s this by stealing what is most precious to them. It is the MacKenzie’s daughter, by forcing a marriage between the two enemy clans so they can stop ravaging their clan so they have a clan alliance and live in peace. The problem is Maeve is already betrothed through the powerful Fraser clan. It is to the chieftains son too and this clan is another enemy of the MacRae’s! It is also to a man Maeve respects, but does not love yet she being a dutiful daughter she will do as her father commands. The thing is her father finally decides Maeve should pick her own husband with a man she is passionate about. He goes to the Frasers to break off the betrothal realizing his daughter should marry for love but returns dead from a supposed riding accident. Except he was an expert horseback rider which sounds rather suspicious and the Frasers claim the betrothal was never broken. Is that the truth or a deceitful lie?
Furthermore, Alasdair MacRae is filled with guilt and not expecting to abduct this chieftain's daughter on the saddest day of her life! A daughter who will become Laird to Eilean Donan castle on this day, unknown to her abductors Alasdair MacRae and his best friend Brodick. On top of that-Alastair has been obsessed with Maeve for the past five years, since sharing their extraordinary kiss yet she just wants to go home. Even though this is the man no other had ever measured up to. As both want to marry for love but so much about deceit abd dishonesty clouds their judgement where Maeve feels escape is her only option. However she does not see the reality or the dangers that could befall her!
However, trust is a difficult thing for Maeve, especially since every man that tried to court her was only using her for her title, lands and Eilean Donan Castle. The thing with Alastair is she did have feelings for him. Plus all the MacRae’s were saying the most horrid and despicable things about her clan and father that she knew in her heart was untrue! On top of this a former mistress is trying to come between Alasdair and Maeve which only makes Maeve questions Alasdair’s integrity and loyalty even more? There is so much against this joining starting with dishonesty and trickery. Will Alasdair and Maeve ever truly be honest with each other and open their hearts?
What future did Maeve and Alasdair have read and find out in Julie Johnstone’s brand new series “Wicked Willful Highlanders”.
Buy Link:
https://www.amazon.com/Highlanders-Ho...
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
April 19, 2025
Grappig tussendoor boekje
May 12, 2023
Highlanders Hold Grudges
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alasdair MacRae is pretty desperate. His clan is almost ruined from the continuous raids from the MacKenzies. Their latest raid has left Alasdair's family almost starving, and his brother badly wounded.
Now, the time has come to strike back, and what better way to do it than to kidnap the enemies daughter and use her to negotiate peace.
His plan is simple, but as far as plans go, they never really work out, do they? He plans to wed the lass because he figures that the lasses father will not go to war with the clan that his daughter is married into. Then he plans to send her off to a nice little cottage on his land where she can quietly live her life as she wishes. He doesn't know her too well, though, does he?
When Maeve MacKenzie has found out that her father has given up his own hearts desire so that she can have hers, she decides to stop wasting time and finally honor the betrothal to her childhood friend as their marriage will strengthen her clan and give her father a second chance at love. But then tragedy strikes and things don't go according to plan at all. She's snatched away from her home by Alasdair MacRae, a man she would rather forget but can't.
Wow, just wow, another fantastic book by Julie Johnstone. This book has it all. It's chalked full of love, hate, history, grudges, and oh the sweetest kisses. I was hooked from the first few pages and loved every word of it. The main characters were well matched, and it seems Highlander's can hold grudges after all. All in all, this was a wonderful book, and I truly enjoyed every word.
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alasdair MacRae is pretty desperate. His clan is almost ruined from the continuous raids from the MacKenzies. Their latest raid has left Alasdair's family almost starving, and his brother badly wounded.
Now, the time has come to strike back, and what better way to do it than to kidnap the enemies daughter and use her to negotiate peace.
His plan is simple, but as far as plans go, they never really work out, do they? He plans to wed the lass because he figures that the lasses father will not go to war with the clan that his daughter is married into. Then he plans to send her off to a nice little cottage on his land where she can quietly live her life as she wishes. He doesn't know her too well, though, does he?
When Maeve MacKenzie has found out that her father has given up his own hearts desire so that she can have hers, she decides to stop wasting time and finally honor the betrothal to her childhood friend as their marriage will strengthen her clan and give her father a second chance at love. But then tragedy strikes and things don't go according to plan at all. She's snatched away from her home by Alasdair MacRae, a man she would rather forget but can't.
Wow, just wow, another fantastic book by Julie Johnstone. This book has it all. It's chalked full of love, hate, history, grudges, and oh the sweetest kisses. I was hooked from the first few pages and loved every word of it. The main characters were well matched, and it seems Highlander's can hold grudges after all. All in all, this was a wonderful book, and I truly enjoyed every word.
May 11, 2023
When kidnapping and trickery pay off! An enemies to lovers romance!
An early accidental meeting between Alasdair and Maeve leaves them both strongly attracted to one another, until they realize they are enemies.
But a kiss from the lass has Alasdair continually thinking of the lass and it comes a time where their union could benefit both families. Without me going into any details, there is much to investigate events that have unfolded between these two clans. Some things do not add up....someone is scheming to keep these two families enemies.
Knowing a bit of the history to Eileen Donan and the MacRaes, I was anxious to see how the author would turn this story since Maeve's betrothed was a Fraser. The motto that still hangs above the door to the castle tells a tale in itself. This author did not disappoint me and the history lives on as it did.
Loved the chemistry between these two, I was cheering them on throughout the story and kept hoping that good would override evil. I would rate this book 4.5 stars and rounded up. Normally there are twists a reader doesn't see coming but the ones that occurred were predictable for me. Other than this small tidbit, it's an excellent read and I enjoyed the story. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post my thoughts.
An early accidental meeting between Alasdair and Maeve leaves them both strongly attracted to one another, until they realize they are enemies.
But a kiss from the lass has Alasdair continually thinking of the lass and it comes a time where their union could benefit both families. Without me going into any details, there is much to investigate events that have unfolded between these two clans. Some things do not add up....someone is scheming to keep these two families enemies.
Knowing a bit of the history to Eileen Donan and the MacRaes, I was anxious to see how the author would turn this story since Maeve's betrothed was a Fraser. The motto that still hangs above the door to the castle tells a tale in itself. This author did not disappoint me and the history lives on as it did.
Loved the chemistry between these two, I was cheering them on throughout the story and kept hoping that good would override evil. I would rate this book 4.5 stars and rounded up. Normally there are twists a reader doesn't see coming but the ones that occurred were predictable for me. Other than this small tidbit, it's an excellent read and I enjoyed the story. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post my thoughts.
May 13, 2023
This is the first in the fabulous Julie Johnstone’s new Scottish Medieval series Wicked, Willful Highlanders. As always it is written with a degree of fact mixed in with the romance and drama of the story. Our hero is Alasdair, Laird of the MacRae clan following the murder of his father by their rivals the MacKenzies and Frasers. As he struggles to come up with a plan to save his clan from a harsh, hungry winter and stop the raids of his lands he realizes that the only plan to save them is daring and bold. It involves the lass he met years ago who captivated him body and sole. Only problem she is the daughter of the man responsible for his fathers death, our heroine, Maeve MacKenzie. As the story unfolds we discover a web of secrets and lies that threaten not only our brave couple but their clans and the Scottish crown. Eventually the truth is revealed and our couple find love and their happy ever after. Julie yet again delivers a story whose characters have depth and a realness to them. You find yourself transported back to the wild beauty of a time long gone through her words. I never tire of these wonderful stories. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for next installment.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
May 19, 2023
WOW…FANTASTIC!!! Highlanders Hold Grudges by Julie Johnstone is the first in her new series Wicked Willful Highlanders and what an incredible way to start a new series. Julie is one of the best writers of today and she never disappoints. This book held me captive from page one to the very end. I really liked the mystery behind this book… the “who started it” mystery. It was just brilliant. I found this book very easy to read, so very well written, had the real feel of the medieval era, wonderful characters, a fantastic story and just a joy to read. If you have not read a Julie Johnstone book you are in for quite a treat with this book. This story has a young girl that is out hunting by herself and gets her first kiss, a young man that follows her to make sure she is safe (so he saids), raids, death, blame, being tricked into marriage, becoming Lairds, traitors, wanting to prove that he is a good person, kindness, wanting to runaway, a sister that like to stir up a little trouble but thinks she is helping, being ask to join the counsel, having no trust and failing in love. I am so very highly recommending you read this book. I said it and I am going to say it again… FANTASTIC!!!
May 12, 2024
Book has more ups and downs than a rollercoaster, which made for an exceptional read.
More than 1 villain to keep the story interesting. I did figure out the one villain but was surprised at another. Parts of the story seemed familiar to me, but I couldn't see where it was part of a bundle.
Fantastic main and secondary characters. The H is severely injured, but no mention was made after a few days. He could wield a sword and make love?
The way the two met, years ago was heartwarming, you could feel their connection. The lovemaking scenes, within marriage later were filled with passion and love! Heat level 4 out of 5.
Our h isn't a weak woman and I loved that about her. The H was the perfect fit for her too. Story is filled with suspense, violence, sadness, exciting ending that will have you on the edge of your seat, twists, and intrigue. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic and steam. Lords name used in vain once. Attempted rape scene touched on.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide whether to purchase, which I recommend. (ljb)
More than 1 villain to keep the story interesting. I did figure out the one villain but was surprised at another. Parts of the story seemed familiar to me, but I couldn't see where it was part of a bundle.
Fantastic main and secondary characters. The H is severely injured, but no mention was made after a few days. He could wield a sword and make love?
The way the two met, years ago was heartwarming, you could feel their connection. The lovemaking scenes, within marriage later were filled with passion and love! Heat level 4 out of 5.
Our h isn't a weak woman and I loved that about her. The H was the perfect fit for her too. Story is filled with suspense, violence, sadness, exciting ending that will have you on the edge of your seat, twists, and intrigue. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic and steam. Lords name used in vain once. Attempted rape scene touched on.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide whether to purchase, which I recommend. (ljb)
May 9, 2023
Julie Johnstone has once again written a book that captures your attention from the Prologue right through the Epilogue. The story of Maeve MacKenzie and Alasdair MacRae starts out when Maeve is just 15 and Alasdair saves her life in the woods and steals a kiss, Maeve not knowing who he is, that his father and clan is her father's greatest enemy, until afterwards. Going forward 5 years, much hatred by these 2 clans has only gotten worse. I loved reading Maeve and Alasdair's journey from anger and hatred for each other, to getting to really know each other and realizing there is much that doesn't make sense. Maeve learns much about the man Alasdair has become when he kidnaps her for revenge, the kind of Laird and leader he is and he learns much about who Maeve is, what she is looking for in a husband and her valuable skills as a leader too. I read this book so fast because I literally couldn't put it down.
I highly recommend this book, not because I was given an ARC to read, but because this is my honest and sincere opinion of this book.
I highly recommend this book, not because I was given an ARC to read, but because this is my honest and sincere opinion of this book.
August 24, 2023
Prepare to be up all night and don’t stop until you finish! These two will live on in your memory!
Maeve is a somewhat self centered young lady as she could see her father was having an affair with what was essentially her godmother or nanny!
They had both promised her mother that she could wed for love!
Maeve is a skilled hunter and felled a boat and cut off the head of a snake in a woods while meeting Alastair at aged 15!
That meeting and kiss would set the tone for the rest of their life!
When things get really bad for the clan Alastair kidnaps her and then the truth starts to unravel! But there are traitors in both clans than would kill to keep those secrets!
Hang on to your seat and get ready for a rollercoaster ride!
A love stronger than the Highlands winds spring up and nothing but death can separate these two! I love a man who treats Maeve as his equal!
Let us hope that love wins! Bravo!
Maeve is a somewhat self centered young lady as she could see her father was having an affair with what was essentially her godmother or nanny!
They had both promised her mother that she could wed for love!
Maeve is a skilled hunter and felled a boat and cut off the head of a snake in a woods while meeting Alastair at aged 15!
That meeting and kiss would set the tone for the rest of their life!
When things get really bad for the clan Alastair kidnaps her and then the truth starts to unravel! But there are traitors in both clans than would kill to keep those secrets!
Hang on to your seat and get ready for a rollercoaster ride!
A love stronger than the Highlands winds spring up and nothing but death can separate these two! I love a man who treats Maeve as his equal!
Let us hope that love wins! Bravo!
September 25, 2023
Wow! What a Magnificent story! Highlanders Hold Grudges will keep you enthralled from the moment you begin the journey with Maeve and Alastair until the very end! Julie Johnstone has a writing style that I thoroughly enjoy; she's filled this story with characters that come off the pages and pulled me into this tale, a story that is well-written, strong plot and great dialogue, with setting descriptions and action sequences that are wonderfully vivid which brings this read together perfectly. While each of them slowly reach out to the other in this heart felt story filled with drama, uncertainties, sizzling passion, secrets, villains who spin a web of lies, deception and deceit until slowly all the pieces start falling together that solve who the real villains are, trials and tribulations, turmoil and while the suspense builds and tensions escalate and mayhem abounds with twists and turns that will keep you wandering what's around the next corner makes this one outstanding story!
October 30, 2025
what grudge. the story was so insta love that everything just felt superficial. it had an interesting premise, but it was so unbearably predictable that even before i got 100 pages in i could already tell what the plot layout was gonna be and i was right.
it also felt like the author was trying to prove to us that the mmc was a good guy and this super progressive romantic man but it just came off as ingenuine and i just wasn’t convinced i believed the mmc when he said he loved the dmc
the story wasn’t terrible per say, but just so insanely dull and lackluster that there’s nothing memorable about it. the first chapter was probably the most interesting one cause it promised a build up, but instead we got a bunch of juvenile insta love and filler chapters where nothing happened majority of the time
only finished it to say i finished it. not bad but not good
it also felt like the author was trying to prove to us that the mmc was a good guy and this super progressive romantic man but it just came off as ingenuine and i just wasn’t convinced i believed the mmc when he said he loved the dmc
the story wasn’t terrible per say, but just so insanely dull and lackluster that there’s nothing memorable about it. the first chapter was probably the most interesting one cause it promised a build up, but instead we got a bunch of juvenile insta love and filler chapters where nothing happened majority of the time
only finished it to say i finished it. not bad but not good
May 10, 2023
Wedded To the Enemy or Not?
After reading the first two pages of this story I was so thrilled with hoping the rest of the story would continue this high level of excitement and, drama and it did, Yeah! What a terrific love story with an awesome cast of characters. The priest was so clever with his input.
The story is filled with lies, deceit, romance, apologies, a tornado of desire throughout this emotional love story with a bit of mystery thrown in.
A terrifying and twisted conclusion makes for an excellent story with a happy ending.
Book 1 of the new series Wicked Willful Highlanders. I will be looking for more of this series for sure.
✔Loved the cover picture.
✔I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
After reading the first two pages of this story I was so thrilled with hoping the rest of the story would continue this high level of excitement and, drama and it did, Yeah! What a terrific love story with an awesome cast of characters. The priest was so clever with his input.
The story is filled with lies, deceit, romance, apologies, a tornado of desire throughout this emotional love story with a bit of mystery thrown in.
A terrifying and twisted conclusion makes for an excellent story with a happy ending.
Book 1 of the new series Wicked Willful Highlanders. I will be looking for more of this series for sure.
✔Loved the cover picture.
✔I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
May 14, 2023
Highlanders Hold Grudges is the first in the new Scottish Medieval series Wicked, Willful Highlanders. Alasdair, Laird of the MacRae clan, is struggling to come up with a plan to save his clan from the harm done by raids by the MacKenzie and Fraser clans. He needs an ally to help defend the clan, and he has an idea about how to get one. He will kidnap Maeve Mackenzie, whom he met years before, and marry her to secure an alliance with her clan. Secrets, lies, betrayal and murder will make it difficult to deal with each other. The plot is complex and unpredictable. The characters are well-developed. Alasdair and Maeve are perfect once they stop butting heads. The secondary characters range from awesome to completely awful. Beitris and Father Bernard are in the awesome group. An exciting story and a great start to the new series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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May 24, 2023I loved this book! A fiery Heroine, Maeve MacKenzie, captures the heart of her neighboring Laird, Alasdair MacRae. She's supposed to marry Colin Fraser, son of the Laird Fraser, but she could never bring herself to go through with it, as she had this notion she should marry for love, as her mom had.
Alasdair kidnaps Maeve on the same day she finds out her Da was killed in a hunting accident. They fight, she tries to escape, but the longer they are together, the more they come to realize how they feel about each other. There are, of course, complications, such as the scheming Frasers, and a few other problems, but the ending was very satisfying. I can't wait to read more Julie Johnstone.
Alasdair kidnaps Maeve on the same day she finds out her Da was killed in a hunting accident. They fight, she tries to escape, but the longer they are together, the more they come to realize how they feel about each other. There are, of course, complications, such as the scheming Frasers, and a few other problems, but the ending was very satisfying. I can't wait to read more Julie Johnstone.
April 20, 2024
Highlander’s Hold Grudges
Julie Johnstone
Oh my goodness, what a wonderful book In 13th century Scotland clans were fighting other clans. The reivers were stealing horses, cattle and sheep to drain the enemy clans of their food supplies. Then comes a girl who can hunt with the best of her male counterparts and captivates her enemies’ laird. They start by hating each other and not trusting each other at all but then go from enemies to lovers. Their love story is endearingly romantic. They are totally unique and 3 dimensional characters whose story captivates me and whose lives I was enthralled by. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next two stories in the series. Well done Julie
Julie Johnstone
Oh my goodness, what a wonderful book In 13th century Scotland clans were fighting other clans. The reivers were stealing horses, cattle and sheep to drain the enemy clans of their food supplies. Then comes a girl who can hunt with the best of her male counterparts and captivates her enemies’ laird. They start by hating each other and not trusting each other at all but then go from enemies to lovers. Their love story is endearingly romantic. They are totally unique and 3 dimensional characters whose story captivates me and whose lives I was enthralled by. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next two stories in the series. Well done Julie
April 20, 2024
Alasdair & Maeve: triggers: sexual assault, kidnapping. I've never heard of this author but I thought this book was good. It was your typical Highlander historical romance where two clans are against each other and marriage is needed to bring peace to the clans. I loved that Maeve started of very strong, hunting and riding on her own but the author didn't take her much farther than that. I expected her to be a lot stronger. I also didn't like the idea that Maeve was expected to live in the same castle where her husband's mistress was the healer... WTF.. though it made for a lot of drama. This story has a lot of mystery and confusion and a great plot twist. So I thought that it was really good.
July 2, 2025
I'm still reading this book, but there are parts of it where I think the author has not proofread. For instance during one of the dinner scenes the hero mentions that everyone is at the table including his brother then a few pages later they are talking about how the brother has just entered the great hall for the first time after having been on his sick bed. Another discrepancy is when the hero talks about the fact that he wants to have women on the council because his mother helped his dad and that's one of the reasons why he felt they were so good in marriage, but then a couple of chapters later he's saying women should be on the council and that's the first he thought of it. I hate discrepancies like that in books and in movies. It's irritating.
May 9, 2023
Highlanders Hold Grudges is book one in the Wicked Willful Highlanders series. I really enjoyed this book. I especially liked the hero- Alasdair. He has a kindness and gentleness that is rare in historical romance heroes. Maeve is a very relatable character and I liked how she matured throughout the story. “His kiss was not what she remembered. It was more. So much more. It was a swirling wind and crashing waves. It was searing heat on the hottest of days, and a storm that swept you up and changed you forever.” So beautifully written! There are a number of very steamy scenes in this book. I can’t wait to read more.
May 19, 2023
Highlanders Hold Grudges
Alasdaire and Maeve were blinded by the belief that each other's clans had initiated the attacks on their lands. This caused the blind need for revenge against their enemies. The truth is buried by one clan's need to gain control of the Castle Eilean Donan and it's vast holding and it is not Alasdaire or Maeve's Clansmen."Oh, What A Wicked Web We Weave....." Is perfect to describe the Evil in this story. They struggle to understand the truth that caused the death of both of their fathers and so much more. I highly recommend this book! Thank You Julie Johnstone!
Alasdaire and Maeve were blinded by the belief that each other's clans had initiated the attacks on their lands. This caused the blind need for revenge against their enemies. The truth is buried by one clan's need to gain control of the Castle Eilean Donan and it's vast holding and it is not Alasdaire or Maeve's Clansmen."Oh, What A Wicked Web We Weave....." Is perfect to describe the Evil in this story. They struggle to understand the truth that caused the death of both of their fathers and so much more. I highly recommend this book! Thank You Julie Johnstone!
July 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this story. Maeve was a surprise. She was quite a hunter, very caring of her people, and loyal to the clan. She was willing to give up her future for her father's happiness. When things went wrong, she kept her wits about her, finally determining what was best for her and her heart. Alasdair had his clan's best interests in mind when he set about a kidnapping that changed his life. I loved how both were open to different perspectives and found a way to right wrongs. A great story.
The narration by Tim Campbell was well done. He kept me listening to this wonderful story, bringing substance to the characters.
The narration by Tim Campbell was well done. He kept me listening to this wonderful story, bringing substance to the characters.
October 9, 2023
Hello Alasdair & Maeve !!!!!
First time reading this author and being a lover of historical romance I was not disappointed. I truly enjoyed this adventure in the lives of Alasdair and Maeve, their strength and passion captured me the plot, betrayal, heartache, heartbreak, friendship, loyalty, family, humor and most of all the love and forgiveness shown held me captive. Character's well written both main and supporting I especially loved the strong will Maeve had because Women Rock !!!😇😇, So again I enjoyed this adventure in the lives of Alasdair and Maeve a very good read from beginning to end !!!!
First time reading this author and being a lover of historical romance I was not disappointed. I truly enjoyed this adventure in the lives of Alasdair and Maeve, their strength and passion captured me the plot, betrayal, heartache, heartbreak, friendship, loyalty, family, humor and most of all the love and forgiveness shown held me captive. Character's well written both main and supporting I especially loved the strong will Maeve had because Women Rock !!!😇😇, So again I enjoyed this adventure in the lives of Alasdair and Maeve a very good read from beginning to end !!!!
May 9, 2023
What's a lass to do when a man who kissed her when she was fifteen, comes back five years later?
He was desperate. Their clan was in trouble, due to their greatest enemy driving them almost to starvation. Taking the daughter of that clan and marrying her, should help their cause.
She remembered him, but could not believe he really wanted to woo her. Of course the second kiss they had made it realize, it was so much more than those years back. Could she trust him?
A journey of discovering truths and a love that hopefully will pull them together!
He was desperate. Their clan was in trouble, due to their greatest enemy driving them almost to starvation. Taking the daughter of that clan and marrying her, should help their cause.
She remembered him, but could not believe he really wanted to woo her. Of course the second kiss they had made it realize, it was so much more than those years back. Could she trust him?
A journey of discovering truths and a love that hopefully will pull them together!
June 26, 2023
This book has it all.
I loved this book. Great characters and a storyline that kept me turning the pages til the end. Laird Alisdair MacCrea is tired of the constant attacks by the MacKenzie clan and has to do something about it so his people will not starve. So, he abducts the MacKenzie lairds daughter Maeve to wed her and to negotiate for peace between the clans. The abduction was the easy part. The road to happily ever after was complicated but made for a great story. This book has everything….betrayal, revenge, grudges, jealously, hatred, murder, and so much more.
I loved this book. Great characters and a storyline that kept me turning the pages til the end. Laird Alisdair MacCrea is tired of the constant attacks by the MacKenzie clan and has to do something about it so his people will not starve. So, he abducts the MacKenzie lairds daughter Maeve to wed her and to negotiate for peace between the clans. The abduction was the easy part. The road to happily ever after was complicated but made for a great story. This book has everything….betrayal, revenge, grudges, jealously, hatred, murder, and so much more.
September 18, 2025
When Maeve and Alasdair were teens they had a chance meeting in which they kissed. Neither one ever forgot the other. Now their clans are enemies and Alasdair comes up with a plan to kidnap Maeve and marry her to unite them.
They start out as enemies but he falls first quickly. His family is smitten with her. I'm glad to say that they get on the same page fairly early on and face the villains as a united front. There's lots of feel good smooshy face vibes going on between the two and it made my heart happy.
They start out as enemies but he falls first quickly. His family is smitten with her. I'm glad to say that they get on the same page fairly early on and face the villains as a united front. There's lots of feel good smooshy face vibes going on between the two and it made my heart happy.
February 29, 2024
A wonderful start to a fantastic series by one of the world’s favorite Highland authors!
This is a story of survival of a clan, lying, murder, sacrifices of the heart and triumphant love.
Ms. Johnstone quickly sweeps you into the lives of Alasdair and Maeve and their willingness to put all else before themselves.
This is absolutely a Must Read!
Warning: as you turn the last page, prepare yourself to immediately pick up Highlanders Never Surrender.
This is a story of survival of a clan, lying, murder, sacrifices of the heart and triumphant love.
Ms. Johnstone quickly sweeps you into the lives of Alasdair and Maeve and their willingness to put all else before themselves.
This is absolutely a Must Read!
Warning: as you turn the last page, prepare yourself to immediately pick up Highlanders Never Surrender.
September 29, 2024
I absolutely love this!!!!!!!!!!
Enemies to lovers at its finest. They met five years ago and kissed. Both never forgot it. Her dad wants to arraigned her marriage to a guy she doesn't love. When her father dies, she agrees. That is when the hero steals her away in the woods. Can enemies fall in love?
I absolutely couldn't stop reading for a single second and loved every minute of this book. It was so compelling that I wanted to know what happened next. I recommend this book.
Enemies to lovers at its finest. They met five years ago and kissed. Both never forgot it. Her dad wants to arraigned her marriage to a guy she doesn't love. When her father dies, she agrees. That is when the hero steals her away in the woods. Can enemies fall in love?
I absolutely couldn't stop reading for a single second and loved every minute of this book. It was so compelling that I wanted to know what happened next. I recommend this book.
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