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Heart of the Highlander #1
Highlander's Bride
Cruelly betrayed by the woman he loves, Alexander MacGregor vows it will be a cold day in hell before he gives his heart again.But as next in line to become laird, he is given an ultimatum; wed a mysterious lass within five days or forfeit his lands and his birthright to become the next laird. Distrust and dark secrets urge him to refuse, but the duty he has trained for all his life compels him to comply. ...At least in appearance.Katherine Gordon wants nothing to do with the arrogant Highlander to whom she suddenly finds herself betrothed. His handsome looks, intelligence and great strength mean naught. Another man had seemed just as appealing, once. That was before she learned the treachery of a heart of stone hidden behind a handsome smile. She would not let her heart be broken again.Forced together by fate, Alexander and Katherine agree on only one thing. Love is not to be trusted. Yet when nameless danger threatens Katherine, Alexander vows to move heaven and earth to save her.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2006
About the author
Deborah Gafford
5 books45 followersAward-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...
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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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
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October 6, 2012=
Reviewed for InD'Tale Magazine. http://indtale.com.
Reviewed for InD'Tale Magazine. http://indtale.com.
August 17, 2012
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review.
I really adored this book. It was very well written. The plot flowed perfectly from beginning to end.
This book had so many emotions coming out of me. I cried real tears. I laughed. I screamed and yelled. I loved that it brought out those feelings in me.
I read this book in one day. Not wanting to put it down. There was plenty of action and hot steamy romance.
Alex, a sexy highlander with honor doesnt want his Da making decisions for him, well atleast not until he meets his soon to be bride.
Katherine, a head strong beauty finds out her parents made an arrangement for her to be married. She doesnt want to marry someone she doesnt love.
This book takes you on a trip. So get ready for a wild rollercoaster ride of emotions. Treachery, betrayal, passion, lust, honor, and trust all have a big part in this wonderful tale.
You feel as if you are there within the book. The characters all shine in their own way. The secondary characters are unforgettable. The ending was beautiful!
I really enjoyed the scottish dialog and the glossary in the back explaining it all.
I adore my highlanders and will be reading more of Deborah Gaffords work.
I really adored this book. It was very well written. The plot flowed perfectly from beginning to end.
This book had so many emotions coming out of me. I cried real tears. I laughed. I screamed and yelled. I loved that it brought out those feelings in me.
I read this book in one day. Not wanting to put it down. There was plenty of action and hot steamy romance.
Alex, a sexy highlander with honor doesnt want his Da making decisions for him, well atleast not until he meets his soon to be bride.
Katherine, a head strong beauty finds out her parents made an arrangement for her to be married. She doesnt want to marry someone she doesnt love.
This book takes you on a trip. So get ready for a wild rollercoaster ride of emotions. Treachery, betrayal, passion, lust, honor, and trust all have a big part in this wonderful tale.
You feel as if you are there within the book. The characters all shine in their own way. The secondary characters are unforgettable. The ending was beautiful!
I really enjoyed the scottish dialog and the glossary in the back explaining it all.
I adore my highlanders and will be reading more of Deborah Gaffords work.
August 14, 2012
A big thank you to the author for providing a review copy and allowing me to review it!
Highlander's Bride is the first book I've read from Deborah, and she is a wonderful story teller. Descriptions are vivid. The dialogue is incredible. It's easy to see that that aspect alone took a lot of time and effort, giving the book a feel that is both authentic and genuine. Plus, there is a glossary in the back of the book for words you may not know! That said, most of the stuff is easy to translate. By the end of the story I felt like talking like a Scott.
Another great addition to the story was the French addition. I felt that along with the amazing Scottish dialogue, the bits of French here and there really strengthened the story and made it even more enjoyable.
The story is a fast and enjoyable read filled with romance, action, and lots of drama. There is never a dull moment throughout the tale. The characters are both interesting and aggravating at times. The reason for four stars instead of five is that I felt like there was just a little too much back and forth between them. Despite that, I think the two main characters still had great chemistry together during the romantic moments of the novel.
Highlander's Bride has a wonderfully sweet ending that had me smiling. I just love a happy ending. Once the tale was over I realized I'd really miss Alexander and Kathrine. As with every good story, I wish there was more, but maybe there will be a sequel at some point in time. Along with liking the main characters, I found several of the minor characters very likable as well. William, Alexander's younger brother, and Monique, Katherine's mother being two I especially loved.
I look forward to reading more from Mrs. Gafford. I thoroughly enjoyed her take on a Scottish romance. :)
Highlander's Bride is the first book I've read from Deborah, and she is a wonderful story teller. Descriptions are vivid. The dialogue is incredible. It's easy to see that that aspect alone took a lot of time and effort, giving the book a feel that is both authentic and genuine. Plus, there is a glossary in the back of the book for words you may not know! That said, most of the stuff is easy to translate. By the end of the story I felt like talking like a Scott.
Another great addition to the story was the French addition. I felt that along with the amazing Scottish dialogue, the bits of French here and there really strengthened the story and made it even more enjoyable.
The story is a fast and enjoyable read filled with romance, action, and lots of drama. There is never a dull moment throughout the tale. The characters are both interesting and aggravating at times. The reason for four stars instead of five is that I felt like there was just a little too much back and forth between them. Despite that, I think the two main characters still had great chemistry together during the romantic moments of the novel.
Highlander's Bride has a wonderfully sweet ending that had me smiling. I just love a happy ending. Once the tale was over I realized I'd really miss Alexander and Kathrine. As with every good story, I wish there was more, but maybe there will be a sequel at some point in time. Along with liking the main characters, I found several of the minor characters very likable as well. William, Alexander's younger brother, and Monique, Katherine's mother being two I especially loved.
I look forward to reading more from Mrs. Gafford. I thoroughly enjoyed her take on a Scottish romance. :)
November 13, 2014
I absolutely loved this book! What a great read! Highlanders are always a nice addition to my romance collection and who doesn't love a man with an accent? Deborah Gafford does it beautifully. A great talent for putting you in the position of understanding what it is like to have a parent that makes decisions for you and you wanting to rebel. Having an arranged marriage is that next big thing. But Alex and Katherine are a fabulous combo. I really enjoyed reading Highlanders Bride!
June 28, 2016
I'll say it again - RAPE IS NOT ROMANTIC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2012
I loved this book it was full of emotion from the hot romance to the action scenes. You really feel for the characters in the book, they want nothing to do with an arranged marriage but they really can’t do anything about it.
Katherine is strong willed and stubborn she is one woman who will not go down without a fight! She will do anything to be able to marry a man who loves her with his whole heart.
Alexander is an arrogant, rough highland warrior, who’s sexy and doesn’t fear anything. Duty bound to merry Katherine Alexander must also find a way to protect her from a threat neither of them know about. Will they find out in time or will it be too late in the end?
The Highlander’s Bride is a wonderful read that will take you back in time to the Highlands of Scotland. This is defiantly a book I will read again and recommend to my friends & readers.
Katherine is strong willed and stubborn she is one woman who will not go down without a fight! She will do anything to be able to marry a man who loves her with his whole heart.
Alexander is an arrogant, rough highland warrior, who’s sexy and doesn’t fear anything. Duty bound to merry Katherine Alexander must also find a way to protect her from a threat neither of them know about. Will they find out in time or will it be too late in the end?
The Highlander’s Bride is a wonderful read that will take you back in time to the Highlands of Scotland. This is defiantly a book I will read again and recommend to my friends & readers.
August 15, 2014
This novel has an authentic feel, taking the reader back to life in 16th century Scotland.
Read full review in the 2012 November issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2012 November issue of InD’tale Magazine.
June 14, 2016
This wasn't absolutely terrible but it wasn't good either. The book started out with both characters falling out of love. Both are betrayed or feeling betrayed by the people they loved so they both swear not to be fools over love again. Maybe it's just me but they both sounded really childish which made me think they were teenagers rather than adults. Their ages were never revealed so who knows? Maybe they were younger and more naive but that made me get off on the wrong start with both characters.
As the story progresses and Alexander continues to be a straight out ass to Katherine, I was really feeling for her. She whined about not wanting to marry him at first but she showed more patience and willingness to get along with him than I thought she would so she got more up there on my good scale.
For majority of the book, I hated Alexander. He's oblivious to his childhood friend's obvious love for him and how she weaves lies to get her way. I don't know how someone can be THAT blind. Not to mention all the fights he picks with Katherine. She tries to make their relationship work while he's on the edge of wanting her but hating the idea of a woman manipulating him with her beauty making him a fool again. For some reason, he doesn't stop to think that not all women are manipulative. Just because he had one bad experience, it doesn't mean the whole world consists of woman that want to use him. He was just so damn ignorant that I wanted to punch him.
Towards the middle of the book, Alexander thinks. I had really little sympathy for Katherine because she goaded him. She was great until she pushed his button. From here on out, Katherine doesn't make very bright decisions and she starts going lower and lower on my good side.
The thing I hate the most is people that expect things from other people that they aren't willing to give at the same time. Katherine expects Alexander to break down her door and declare her love for him when she refuses to talk to him, literally runs to hide in her room when she sees him, and asks people to tell her when he's gone so she can go out of her room. How do you expect for him to apologize when you don't let him apologize then get angry at him because he hasn't apologized? I know, it gives me a headache too.
Anyways, the ending was predictable and I really hated how quick of a wrap up it was. They spent so much time apart then suddenly everything is okay after she's rescued so throw in that epilogue, right? God, no! Where is the groveling? Where is her apology for being so stupid as to run away like a the drama queen she is? It went from rescue to baby is born and that doesn't cut it for me.
Again, this wasn't too terrible because I did like Katherine for half of the book but god what a mess the last half was.
As the story progresses and Alexander continues to be a straight out ass to Katherine, I was really feeling for her. She whined about not wanting to marry him at first but she showed more patience and willingness to get along with him than I thought she would so she got more up there on my good scale.
For majority of the book, I hated Alexander. He's oblivious to his childhood friend's obvious love for him and how she weaves lies to get her way. I don't know how someone can be THAT blind. Not to mention all the fights he picks with Katherine. She tries to make their relationship work while he's on the edge of wanting her but hating the idea of a woman manipulating him with her beauty making him a fool again. For some reason, he doesn't stop to think that not all women are manipulative. Just because he had one bad experience, it doesn't mean the whole world consists of woman that want to use him. He was just so damn ignorant that I wanted to punch him.
Towards the middle of the book, Alexander thinks. I had really little sympathy for Katherine because she goaded him. She was great until she pushed his button. From here on out, Katherine doesn't make very bright decisions and she starts going lower and lower on my good side.
The thing I hate the most is people that expect things from other people that they aren't willing to give at the same time. Katherine expects Alexander to break down her door and declare her love for him when she refuses to talk to him, literally runs to hide in her room when she sees him, and asks people to tell her when he's gone so she can go out of her room. How do you expect for him to apologize when you don't let him apologize then get angry at him because he hasn't apologized? I know, it gives me a headache too.
Anyways, the ending was predictable and I really hated how quick of a wrap up it was. They spent so much time apart then suddenly everything is okay after she's rescued so throw in that epilogue, right? God, no! Where is the groveling? Where is her apology for being so stupid as to run away like a the drama queen she is? It went from rescue to baby is born and that doesn't cut it for me.
Again, this wasn't too terrible because I did like Katherine for half of the book but god what a mess the last half was.
February 12, 2013
I'm normally more of a paranormal girl but once in awhile I like to get down and dirty with a Highlander book. I like some historical's too but I prefer Highlanders. They give me a nice break and if done right I can get lost in a story with some sexy Highlander (normally with a matching sexy Scottish accent, yum!). Deborah's Highlander's Bride is definitely one of those that I can get down with.
We have a man (Alexander) and woman (Katherine) who are forced to marry each other from their parents and neither one of them are pleased by the prospect. We don't know it until later in the book, but there is definitely a specific reason their parents want them to marry and are uniting together (the parents are friends).
Katherine is leery of men and wants a man she can love...she's already experienced one heart breaking betrayal and has no need to experience it again.
Alexander has always wanted to marry for love and is extremely put out that his Da is forcing him into this arranged marriage.
The two have some explosive chemistry right from the start and you just fall into the book, into that time, in that place and you're Katherine living it through her eyes. You grow to love and care for the characters and what's going to happen in the future..
There are some villians too...won't mention any names, but when you find out the identity of the villian its definitely a slap to the face... I never expected that so the author definitely does a good job dragging the suspense out.
If you like Highlander/Historical books you should try Deborah, she does a great job of weaving elements and keeping you hooked to the edge of your seat. Warning: Don't start reading past 9pm (unless you like bags under your eyes the next day of course.)
We have a man (Alexander) and woman (Katherine) who are forced to marry each other from their parents and neither one of them are pleased by the prospect. We don't know it until later in the book, but there is definitely a specific reason their parents want them to marry and are uniting together (the parents are friends).
Katherine is leery of men and wants a man she can love...she's already experienced one heart breaking betrayal and has no need to experience it again.
Alexander has always wanted to marry for love and is extremely put out that his Da is forcing him into this arranged marriage.
The two have some explosive chemistry right from the start and you just fall into the book, into that time, in that place and you're Katherine living it through her eyes. You grow to love and care for the characters and what's going to happen in the future..
There are some villians too...won't mention any names, but when you find out the identity of the villian its definitely a slap to the face... I never expected that so the author definitely does a good job dragging the suspense out.
If you like Highlander/Historical books you should try Deborah, she does a great job of weaving elements and keeping you hooked to the edge of your seat. Warning: Don't start reading past 9pm (unless you like bags under your eyes the next day of course.)
October 4, 2013
5.0 out of 5 stars Can I be the Highlanders Bride?, October 3, 2013
By Kathie Noblit
I love Highlander books, and this one was no exception.
Katherine wants to marry for love and have the life her parents seem to. Love, children, all of it. But a twist of fate places her in the position to be married to a complete stranger. Fighting the arrangement every step of the way, she is determined to marry for love, if only her parents would listen.
Alexander is looking forward to his retirement from the Kings service. Wanting to relax, find himself someone special to love and have a family with, he is thrown for a loop when it is declared he is to marry and his father has made the choice for him. Determined to marry by his own choice, and for love, he sets out to make sure the lady in waiting refuses him.
The bickering between Katherine and Alexander only seems to bring them closer rather than push them apart. And just when they both realize what their true feelings are... an unexpected twist takes place that could ruin any chance they may have to be together.
I fully enjoyed this story. The characters were realistic, the imagery vivid enough to pull me into Scotland and the ease of the Scottish burr was just enough to make you feel the language without any problems. Kudos to the author for her ability to accomplish it all. I will enjoy this book many times over. 5 stars! Highlander's Bride (Heart of the Highlander Series Book 1)
February 25, 2014
I don’t normally read Historical Fiction as I am a Fantasy writer and reader but I was given this book at a convention where I met the author and so decided to read it, and was glad I did.
I found Highlander's Bride to be well written with strong characters and great attention to detail. The story revolves around Alexander and Katherine. Two strong-willed people who are forced into a marriage neither wants. Their explosive relationship begins with distrust and is volatile from beginning until the end. The attraction is there but the obstacles and secrecy, along with, betrayal and duty, make for a suspenseful ride that might end up shattering not only Alexander and Katherine, but the families who are also bound to each other in a fight to make the union work. The story is full of twists and turns, villains and heroes, and enough mystery to leave you guessing what is going to happen next.
I give Highlander’s Bride 5 stars. I received this book for free and was not asked for a review.
I found Highlander's Bride to be well written with strong characters and great attention to detail. The story revolves around Alexander and Katherine. Two strong-willed people who are forced into a marriage neither wants. Their explosive relationship begins with distrust and is volatile from beginning until the end. The attraction is there but the obstacles and secrecy, along with, betrayal and duty, make for a suspenseful ride that might end up shattering not only Alexander and Katherine, but the families who are also bound to each other in a fight to make the union work. The story is full of twists and turns, villains and heroes, and enough mystery to leave you guessing what is going to happen next.
I give Highlander’s Bride 5 stars. I received this book for free and was not asked for a review.
November 18, 2012
Rating: 4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this book and the story that evolves between Katherine and Alexander. The characters are very well written and you can't help but love the hero/heroine and hate the villians. Deborah is a great writer and has a way of pulling you into the story to where you feel as if you are there. Her descriptions of the scenery and places in the book made me want to fly to Scotland to enjoy it for myself.
This was my first book by Deborah Gafford, but it definitely won't be my last. I absolutely adored this story and I can't wait to read book 2 in the series, "The Talisman". :)
I really enjoyed this book and the story that evolves between Katherine and Alexander. The characters are very well written and you can't help but love the hero/heroine and hate the villians. Deborah is a great writer and has a way of pulling you into the story to where you feel as if you are there. Her descriptions of the scenery and places in the book made me want to fly to Scotland to enjoy it for myself.
This was my first book by Deborah Gafford, but it definitely won't be my last. I absolutely adored this story and I can't wait to read book 2 in the series, "The Talisman". :)
October 26, 2012
This is the first book I have read from this author and I must say that I am impressed! It is so well written. The story is easy to follow. 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.
If you like 'highlander' tales that this book is a must.
Can't wait to start the next one!
Well done Deborah!
If you like 'highlander' tales that this book is a must.
Can't wait to start the next one!
Well done Deborah!
December 23, 2012
This book has everything you could ever ask for with a Highlander romance. Castles, kilts, bagpipes, deceit, fighting and last but not least, love. The characters are strongly built, even if I did want to kick the hero in his shins a few times, and the author does an amazing job transporting you back in time. Will definitely be reading the next in this series and keeping my eyes out for more great reads from Deborah!
July 26, 2013
This book is so captivating and love Highlander books, I love how during some scene are so vivid and well written. Have romance, drama and action and HEA.
The character:
Katherine is leery of men, because her heart was broken once.
Alexander want to marry for love.....But...Their parent force to marry them...
I recommend this book, if you like historical romance
The character:
Katherine is leery of men, because her heart was broken once.
Alexander want to marry for love.....But...Their parent force to marry them...
I recommend this book, if you like historical romance
August 28, 2014
I loved this book! The author does a great job of transporting you to ancient Scotland. The characters are both heroic and romantic. Great plot that leads to an exciting conclusion. Highly recommend. I liked it enough that I also read Gafford's second highland romance and thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
February 22, 2014
This book is a treasure! I enjoyed the era, the language, and the plot progression. It is a well written masterpiece with well-developed, complex characters, that will engage your interest from start to finish. Deborah Gafford delivered old Scotland and its people to my doorstep!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews