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Wicked Willful Highlanders #2
Highlanders Never Surrender
On the path of vengeance, he unwillingly collided with love.
No one desires retribution against their enemy more than Highlander Cormac MacLean. Yet his foe has the favor of the king and Cormac lacks irrefutable proof of the man’s nefarious deeds, so revenge must be planned with calculated care. But when Cormac’s hot-headed brother impulsively attempts to kidnap their enemy’s stepsister, Cormac finds himself fleeing with the wounded beauty after she sustains an injury trying to protect him. He has every intention of returning the troublesome lass to her home, until it quickly becomes apparent that she may be the one person who can free his sister from the dark place in which she dwells. At every turn, the strong-willed woman shows bravery and loyalty, and instead of wanting to keep her at a distance as vows given and family allegiance demands he must, he aches to touch her, protect her, and possess her forever.
Desperate to escape her impending wedding to a suspected murderer, Brigid Campbell is not exactly dismayed when she’s snatched from her stepbrother’s clutches by a Scottish barbarian who she incidentally ends up saving from an arrow aimed at his heart. Still, when she awakens from her injury at Cormac’s home, she is quite upset that her dearest companion was left behind to face the wrath of her stepbrother. So, when her overbearing captor announces he’ll be keeping her to assist his sister, she makes a demand of her own—he must help her rescue her companion. When the officious man refuses, she takes matters into her own hands bringing her the startling discovery that behind the Highlander’s mask of dislike for her lies a compellingly complex man who willingly charges into peril to save her. At each brush with danger that ensues, he’s there to aid her, filling her with hope that despite the feud that brought them together, she may have finally found a family to belong to and a man to trust and to give her heart.
Brigid fuels Cormac’s desire and makes him question his oaths, but it takes his enemy making a master move for him to face the truth that since the day he met Brigid, there could only ever be one choice for him—banish his ghosts, silence his guilt, and show the woman he loves unquestionably that she is his and he is hers—if only it’s not too late.
No one desires retribution against their enemy more than Highlander Cormac MacLean. Yet his foe has the favor of the king and Cormac lacks irrefutable proof of the man’s nefarious deeds, so revenge must be planned with calculated care. But when Cormac’s hot-headed brother impulsively attempts to kidnap their enemy’s stepsister, Cormac finds himself fleeing with the wounded beauty after she sustains an injury trying to protect him. He has every intention of returning the troublesome lass to her home, until it quickly becomes apparent that she may be the one person who can free his sister from the dark place in which she dwells. At every turn, the strong-willed woman shows bravery and loyalty, and instead of wanting to keep her at a distance as vows given and family allegiance demands he must, he aches to touch her, protect her, and possess her forever.
Desperate to escape her impending wedding to a suspected murderer, Brigid Campbell is not exactly dismayed when she’s snatched from her stepbrother’s clutches by a Scottish barbarian who she incidentally ends up saving from an arrow aimed at his heart. Still, when she awakens from her injury at Cormac’s home, she is quite upset that her dearest companion was left behind to face the wrath of her stepbrother. So, when her overbearing captor announces he’ll be keeping her to assist his sister, she makes a demand of her own—he must help her rescue her companion. When the officious man refuses, she takes matters into her own hands bringing her the startling discovery that behind the Highlander’s mask of dislike for her lies a compellingly complex man who willingly charges into peril to save her. At each brush with danger that ensues, he’s there to aid her, filling her with hope that despite the feud that brought them together, she may have finally found a family to belong to and a man to trust and to give her heart.
Brigid fuels Cormac’s desire and makes him question his oaths, but it takes his enemy making a master move for him to face the truth that since the day he met Brigid, there could only ever be one choice for him—banish his ghosts, silence his guilt, and show the woman he loves unquestionably that she is his and he is hers—if only it’s not too late.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 3, 2023
472 people are currently reading
79 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 49 reviews
August 7, 2023
Loved this
At times the story reminded me of my favorite romance of all time, Honors Splendor by Judy Garwood. It was a very similar premise with the heroine helping the rape victim come back to herself. it was her Step brother that did it and it was the victims brother who had abducted her. He had lost his Fiancee the same day and time his sister was attacked. She was put into a cottage by an evil laird and burned to death. The sister survived and Brigid, whom I loved, put up with her hate and vitriol. She was a very sweet heroine and awful things happened to her but she was always forgiving. She had a hard childhood because of her Father and Step brother who were evil and mistreated her. The more I write about the plot the more it reminds me of the Garwood Novel. So similar. But the Garwood is incredible. I did like this book too. It was great and I hope the author keeps putting out great stories like this. She is one of my favorite authors too.
At times the story reminded me of my favorite romance of all time, Honors Splendor by Judy Garwood. It was a very similar premise with the heroine helping the rape victim come back to herself. it was her Step brother that did it and it was the victims brother who had abducted her. He had lost his Fiancee the same day and time his sister was attacked. She was put into a cottage by an evil laird and burned to death. The sister survived and Brigid, whom I loved, put up with her hate and vitriol. She was a very sweet heroine and awful things happened to her but she was always forgiving. She had a hard childhood because of her Father and Step brother who were evil and mistreated her. The more I write about the plot the more it reminds me of the Garwood Novel. So similar. But the Garwood is incredible. I did like this book too. It was great and I hope the author keeps putting out great stories like this. She is one of my favorite authors too.
September 18, 2023
Too perfect MCs had solved all the issues in a few weeks while being too perfect idiots!
August 8, 2023
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Excellently written and a so well deserved five stars for this book.
Julie never fails to give her best and this is most definitely one of them.
Fantastic character development, wonderful story and plot.
I can’t say enough good things about it.
I loved it
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
Excellently written and a so well deserved five stars for this book.
Julie never fails to give her best and this is most definitely one of them.
Fantastic character development, wonderful story and plot.
I can’t say enough good things about it.
I loved it
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
August 2, 2023
Great characters! A brave woman that rises above mistreatment from her father and stepbrother, and a grieving warrior battle their attraction. This story has lots of action, treachery, and passion. A quick read, this book checks all the boxes.
August 8, 2023
Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book, a truly standalone novel in the Wicked Willful Highlanders series. The story in this one is a familiar one but has a few twists to make it different. Brigid Campbell is on the verge of being forced to wed a horrible man when she is inexplicably rescued by Cormac MacLean. The plot is similar to When a Highlander Loses His Heart (where Graham MacLeod abducts Isobel Campbell on her wedding day, also rescuing her from a dreaded marriage), but the supporting characters are different. It’s also reminiscent of When a Laird Loves a Lady, in which Iaian MacLean refuses to love Marion de Lucy because he still mourns the loss of his wife (except Iaian and Marion are quickly married by order of the king). It doesn’t matter, though, because the experiences of these characters, regardless of the similarities, are quite different. Maisie, Cormac’s younger sister, and what she experienced at the hands of Ramsay, Brigid’s stepbrother, is a particular driver of this narrative.
So, if you’ve read either of those stories (or any romance, really), you have a pretty good idea of what is going to happen. But it’s never about the originality of the story so much as the way the story is told—and this one is told well. I will point out, to any of you who are new to the world of reading, when a character mentions something and then declares it must be a coincidence, that means it’s not. So when Tess mentions that Elsie (Cormac’s deceased betrothed), Aila, and Britta all grew up in the Donald Castle where Ramsay’s mother was a servant and where Ramsay spent his formative years prior to his mother marrying her father, it’s dismissed as a coincidence. Of course, it’s not.
The story is tense at times, thoughtful at others. Cormac frequently reflects on the bravery and selflessness of Brigid and his admiration for her. Likewise, she is impressed by his leadership and tenderness. They spend quite a bit of time together, while Brigid falls in love with him and he tries to fight his feelings for her. It takes a near tragedy to finally push him to admit his feelings. And when he does, there’s no denying them. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and highly recommend it, as I find I do with every Julie Johnstone story.
So, if you’ve read either of those stories (or any romance, really), you have a pretty good idea of what is going to happen. But it’s never about the originality of the story so much as the way the story is told—and this one is told well. I will point out, to any of you who are new to the world of reading, when a character mentions something and then declares it must be a coincidence, that means it’s not. So when Tess mentions that Elsie (Cormac’s deceased betrothed), Aila, and Britta all grew up in the Donald Castle where Ramsay’s mother was a servant and where Ramsay spent his formative years prior to his mother marrying her father, it’s dismissed as a coincidence. Of course, it’s not.
The story is tense at times, thoughtful at others. Cormac frequently reflects on the bravery and selflessness of Brigid and his admiration for her. Likewise, she is impressed by his leadership and tenderness. They spend quite a bit of time together, while Brigid falls in love with him and he tries to fight his feelings for her. It takes a near tragedy to finally push him to admit his feelings. And when he does, there’s no denying them. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and highly recommend it, as I find I do with every Julie Johnstone story.
August 4, 2023
This is the second book from Julie Johnstone’s brilliant new series Wicked Willful Highlanders. I thoroughly enjoyed book one, this story however is even better. Our heroine Brigid, is being forced to marry an odious man by her hateful stepbrother Ramsay, or he will kill her companion Martha, who has been like a mother to her. Sinclair’s three previous wives have died in mysterious circumstances within a year of marrying him. All her life Brigid has been treated badly first by her father, who resented her being born female. Then by her stepbrother who was treated cruelly by her father so takes his anger out on Brigid. As she is standing at the alter praying for help, she hears a commotion outside. When everyone runs out to defend the keep, Brigid attempts to save Martha, but before she gets very far she is captured by a big burly Scot. Cormac, Laird of the MacLean clan finds himself in a mess thanks to the rash actions of his younger brother Camden. Determined to make Ramsay pay for the ravishment of their sister, Maisie and the murder of Cormac’s betrothed Elsie, Camden concocts a foolish plan to kidnap Brigid. Luckily Cormac steps in and saves the day, though Brigid is injured in the escape while trying to save him.
These two tortured soles, have endured and lost a lot. Brigid longs for true love but is afraid. Cormac has closed his heart after making a vow to Elsie as she dies in his arms to never betray her.
As expected they find they have much in common and although they try to fight the attraction, love slowly builds. When Brigid returns to Ramsay in an effort to protect those she loves. Cormac realizes how much she means to him and that he cannot live without her, he races to save her and have the truth finally revealed to the King. They eventually get their happy ever after and manage to help Maisie find peace along the way.
I highly recommend this book, although part of a series it can be read as a standalone. I am sure once finished you will want to read more of Julie’s amazing works.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
These two tortured soles, have endured and lost a lot. Brigid longs for true love but is afraid. Cormac has closed his heart after making a vow to Elsie as she dies in his arms to never betray her.
As expected they find they have much in common and although they try to fight the attraction, love slowly builds. When Brigid returns to Ramsay in an effort to protect those she loves. Cormac realizes how much she means to him and that he cannot live without her, he races to save her and have the truth finally revealed to the King. They eventually get their happy ever after and manage to help Maisie find peace along the way.
I highly recommend this book, although part of a series it can be read as a standalone. I am sure once finished you will want to read more of Julie’s amazing works.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
August 3, 2023
Book: Highlanders Never Surrender
Author: Julie Johnstone
Series: Wicked Willful Highlanders, Book #2
Release Date: August 3, 2022
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire
Book Length: 276 pages
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Brigid Campbell was being forced by both her father and step-brother to marry a brutal man, Sinclair Ferguson. A man suspected of murdering his three previous wives all died before the ink on their marriage contracts was dry!
Cormac MacLean knew Camden, his younger brother, was about to get himself killed by the Campbell clan. As he didn't even borrow a Campbell kilt. He would have been recognized and killed immediately so Cormac had no choice but to detain and take his place in this unwanted mission and abduct the Cambell chit!
It was all in the name of revenge for Brigid Cqmpbell step brother had seduced MacLean's sister and murdered Cormac’s fiance. Cormac felt pure hate for this family but he thought things through not like his hot headed brother who just acted without using his head. Except during this abduction the strangest thing happened when one of Campbell’s men attempted to kill Cormac. This Campbell daughter tried to protect him and Cormac could not understand why and one thing led to another between Cormac and Brigid that turns to love.
Will the family leave them alone? Is this real love or is Cormac just using Brigid for revenge? Will Brigid return to her family to save the man she loves? So many unanswered questions in this fantastic story.
Julie Johnstone is another book readers won’t be able to put down with so many twists and turns in this exciting story! As she pens another riveting, breathtaking, fast-paced, page-turning, awe-inspiring, gripping tale that was absolutely amazing right from the start. A book that will sweep readers away in this phenomenal tale between enemies. This is Johnstone's second spectacular book in her Wicked Willful Highlanders series.
WICKED WILLFUL HIGHLANDERS SERIES
1. Highlanders Hold Grudges
2. Highlanders Never Surender
You can read in series order or as a stand alone book.
A book I highly recommend that I absolutely loved!
Author: Julie Johnstone
Series: Wicked Willful Highlanders, Book #2
Release Date: August 3, 2022
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire
Book Length: 276 pages
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Brigid Campbell was being forced by both her father and step-brother to marry a brutal man, Sinclair Ferguson. A man suspected of murdering his three previous wives all died before the ink on their marriage contracts was dry!
Cormac MacLean knew Camden, his younger brother, was about to get himself killed by the Campbell clan. As he didn't even borrow a Campbell kilt. He would have been recognized and killed immediately so Cormac had no choice but to detain and take his place in this unwanted mission and abduct the Cambell chit!
It was all in the name of revenge for Brigid Cqmpbell step brother had seduced MacLean's sister and murdered Cormac’s fiance. Cormac felt pure hate for this family but he thought things through not like his hot headed brother who just acted without using his head. Except during this abduction the strangest thing happened when one of Campbell’s men attempted to kill Cormac. This Campbell daughter tried to protect him and Cormac could not understand why and one thing led to another between Cormac and Brigid that turns to love.
Will the family leave them alone? Is this real love or is Cormac just using Brigid for revenge? Will Brigid return to her family to save the man she loves? So many unanswered questions in this fantastic story.
Julie Johnstone is another book readers won’t be able to put down with so many twists and turns in this exciting story! As she pens another riveting, breathtaking, fast-paced, page-turning, awe-inspiring, gripping tale that was absolutely amazing right from the start. A book that will sweep readers away in this phenomenal tale between enemies. This is Johnstone's second spectacular book in her Wicked Willful Highlanders series.
WICKED WILLFUL HIGHLANDERS SERIES
1. Highlanders Hold Grudges
2. Highlanders Never Surender
You can read in series order or as a stand alone book.
A book I highly recommend that I absolutely loved!
August 10, 2023
I enjoyed this story very much. Begins with sadness for both main characters so you know ahead of time, it's a long road to recovery for all.
Brigid never knew love, never felt like she had a family, never felt like she belonged so when her cruel father dies and her half-brother takes over the clan she finds herself being married off to a man she knows will kill her. Her best option? Escape and run straight into the arms of another enemy. But this man she finds honor, compassion, a love for his clan, and he holds a vow that will forever keep them separated.
Cormac vows to never love again since the woman he was to marry died in a fire. His hands are full with clan matters and a sister that has gone completely mad after a brutal rape. This new woman he saves and brings home has at least brought out his sister's voice and she has shown a reaction for the first time in a long while. Perhaps this new charge he's taken in can save his sister. But what he didn't see coming, was the possibility of her mending him too.
Good story, a lot going on and my only complaint were too many character names that were alike so that kept me pausing to realize which character the author was speaking of. Camden, Cormac, and Britta and Brigid tripped me up a bit. So pay attention and you'll not have an issue like I did. I was given an ARC and wanted to post my review. This story is full of action, history, sorrow, and new beginnings.
Brigid never knew love, never felt like she had a family, never felt like she belonged so when her cruel father dies and her half-brother takes over the clan she finds herself being married off to a man she knows will kill her. Her best option? Escape and run straight into the arms of another enemy. But this man she finds honor, compassion, a love for his clan, and he holds a vow that will forever keep them separated.
Cormac vows to never love again since the woman he was to marry died in a fire. His hands are full with clan matters and a sister that has gone completely mad after a brutal rape. This new woman he saves and brings home has at least brought out his sister's voice and she has shown a reaction for the first time in a long while. Perhaps this new charge he's taken in can save his sister. But what he didn't see coming, was the possibility of her mending him too.
Good story, a lot going on and my only complaint were too many character names that were alike so that kept me pausing to realize which character the author was speaking of. Camden, Cormac, and Britta and Brigid tripped me up a bit. So pay attention and you'll not have an issue like I did. I was given an ARC and wanted to post my review. This story is full of action, history, sorrow, and new beginnings.
August 3, 2023
Cormac MacLean is seeking revenge after his betrothed is killed & his sister ravished. Yet his foe Ramsey Campbell has the favour of the king and Cormac lacks irrefutable proof of the man’s nefarious deeds, so revenge must be planned with calculated care. But when Cormac’s hot-headed brother Camden impulsively attempts to kidnap their enemy’s stepsister, Cormac finds himself fleeing with the wounded beauty after she sustains an injury trying to protect him. Desperate to escape her impending wedding to a suspected murderer, Brigid Campbell is not exactly dismayed when she’s snatched from her stepbrother’s clutches by a Scottish barbarian who she incidentally ends up saving from an arrow aimed at his heart.
WOW just WOW the book starts at a gallop & the pace doesn’t falter all the way through. An absolutely lovely story of enemies to lovers. I loved Cormac who is trying to honour the vow he made to his dying betrothed but Brigid worms her way into his heart no matter how much he fights it. I adored Brigid one of the most selfless heroines you will ever find. I make no bones that the author is one of my must read authors but in this book she’s surpassed herself & it is one of her best. I was engrossed, enthralled & captivated – I absolutely loved it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
WOW just WOW the book starts at a gallop & the pace doesn’t falter all the way through. An absolutely lovely story of enemies to lovers. I loved Cormac who is trying to honour the vow he made to his dying betrothed but Brigid worms her way into his heart no matter how much he fights it. I adored Brigid one of the most selfless heroines you will ever find. I make no bones that the author is one of my must read authors but in this book she’s surpassed herself & it is one of her best. I was engrossed, enthralled & captivated – I absolutely loved it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 3, 2023
ANOTHER FANTASTIC READ BY JULIE JOHNSTONE!!! Highlanders Never Surrender is the 2nd book in the Wicked Willful Highlanders series and what a great read as always. Though in a series this book can be read as a standalone. What I just loved about this book was not only it romantic but very sad too. It touches on the subject of rape but I have to say the romance between Cormac and Brigid sizzled. I found this book to be easy to read, very original, had the real feel of the medieval era, so very well written and I just could not put this book down. Get ready to stay up all night reading this one ladies. Julie is sone of the most gifted and talented authors of today and her books never disappoint. This story has an abused sister, a Laird that wants revenge, death of a love one, being kidnapped, a forced marriage, an evil stepbrother, an evil betrothed, nearly drowning several times, wanting to kill her, a sister that was raped, trying to bring her back to the world of the living, an evil scheme, wanting to know the truth, a vow that is not be broken and falling in love. I am so very highly recommending you read this book, as I said… it really is Fantastic!!!!
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
August 4, 2023
Brigid Campbell has been abused and ignored in equal portions all her life, by her father and her step-brother. Cormac, Laird of Clan MacLean, seeks revenge against the
Campbell Laird, Ramsey, for the rape of his sister and death of his betrothed. He sees Brigid’s kidnapping as a step toward that revenge. It doesn’t take long to see that she is more than just the step-sister of his enemy. This gripping story takes off with a bang and the action continues all the way through. A complex plot with tension, abused sisters, kidnapping, finding a family, discovering the truth, and a slow-burn romance make this story one that is hard to put down. Brigid and Cormac are perfect for one another, although he doesn’t want to give in to the feelings. Brigid is intelligent, very kind and caring, and just a bit cheeky. Tess and Martha are great mother figures. They are tender and tough. Camden is good-hearted and means well, but is a bit impetuous. The villains are just that, and despicable. Great story, amazing characters, and an awesome ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Campbell Laird, Ramsey, for the rape of his sister and death of his betrothed. He sees Brigid’s kidnapping as a step toward that revenge. It doesn’t take long to see that she is more than just the step-sister of his enemy. This gripping story takes off with a bang and the action continues all the way through. A complex plot with tension, abused sisters, kidnapping, finding a family, discovering the truth, and a slow-burn romance make this story one that is hard to put down. Brigid and Cormac are perfect for one another, although he doesn’t want to give in to the feelings. Brigid is intelligent, very kind and caring, and just a bit cheeky. Tess and Martha are great mother figures. They are tender and tough. Camden is good-hearted and means well, but is a bit impetuous. The villains are just that, and despicable. Great story, amazing characters, and an awesome ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 2, 2023
Highlanders Never Surrender starts out right away with heart stopping action that does not slow down. Add in the intrigue, the despicable characters, Ramsay Campbell and Sinclair Ferguson, and the intelligence, bravery and pure goodness of the heroine, Brigid Campbell, who matches perfectly with brave and braw Laird Cormac MacLean, the hero, and you have a book that the reader just cannot put down. I enjoyed how Brigid and Cormac interacted, their journey to caring and loving each other and the fight for Brigid's freedom and Cormac's surrender. The secondary characters (Tess, Martha, Camden, etc) had so much personality, cheeky and just plain laugh out loud funny! Cormac's sister, Maisie, was heartbreaking and Brigid was the perfect one to help her, and I liked the way the author wrote this.
Nearing the end of this book, I was thinking, this is my favorite Julie Johnstone book so far, it has everything!
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my true and unbiased opinion of this book. I recommend it highly and totally enjoyed reading Highlanders Never Surrender.
Nearing the end of this book, I was thinking, this is my favorite Julie Johnstone book so far, it has everything!
I was given an ARC of this book and this is my true and unbiased opinion of this book. I recommend it highly and totally enjoyed reading Highlanders Never Surrender.
July 29, 2023
Revenge, Rescues, Conquering Fears, Vows:
From the first page this story explodes with such excitement and ferocity, and it continues like a dolphin crashing up and down through a turbulent ocean of waves. In other words, you're in for a very complex romance story involving several intriguing characters, that conquer many emotional situations.
Cormac and Brigid will do anything to keep their trusted family together on their way to finding love. Their way is not easy but going through hell will bring forth a very explosive and happy ending that is well deserved.
A triumphant ending that had me shouting out a huge Yahoo!
This is a really exciting story filled with love, determination, mental awareness, hatred, betrayals, trust, making friend.
✔I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion and thoughts.
✔The cover with those blue eyes is captivatingly dreamy.
From the first page this story explodes with such excitement and ferocity, and it continues like a dolphin crashing up and down through a turbulent ocean of waves. In other words, you're in for a very complex romance story involving several intriguing characters, that conquer many emotional situations.
Cormac and Brigid will do anything to keep their trusted family together on their way to finding love. Their way is not easy but going through hell will bring forth a very explosive and happy ending that is well deserved.
A triumphant ending that had me shouting out a huge Yahoo!
This is a really exciting story filled with love, determination, mental awareness, hatred, betrayals, trust, making friend.
✔I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion and thoughts.
✔The cover with those blue eyes is captivatingly dreamy.
September 25, 2023
I loved it! Highlanders Never Surrender is the second in the Wicked Willful Highlanders series that will keep you enthralled from the moment you begin the journey with Maeve and Alastair until the very end!
Both Maeve and Alastair have emotional scars that will take love, patience and understanding to heal them. But evil lurks in the background to take what they try to find. Julie Johnstone is one of those authors that's able to transport you back in time we're you are one with the story. She's filled this story with characters that come off the pages and pull you into this tale, a story that is well-written, strong plot and great dialogue, filled with drama, uncertainties, sizzling passion, secrets, trials and tribulations, turmoil and while the suspense builds and tensions escalate and deception abounds with twists and turns that will keep you wandering what's around the next corner makes this one outstanding story!
Both Maeve and Alastair have emotional scars that will take love, patience and understanding to heal them. But evil lurks in the background to take what they try to find. Julie Johnstone is one of those authors that's able to transport you back in time we're you are one with the story. She's filled this story with characters that come off the pages and pull you into this tale, a story that is well-written, strong plot and great dialogue, filled with drama, uncertainties, sizzling passion, secrets, trials and tribulations, turmoil and while the suspense builds and tensions escalate and deception abounds with twists and turns that will keep you wandering what's around the next corner makes this one outstanding story!
November 11, 2023
Cormac and Brigid definitely come from opposite backgrounds!
Cormac one of a loving wholesome family! Brigid from locked dungeons, beating for daring to speak at all!
When Cormac brother Camden thinks to kidnap her for revenge he stops the wedding of Brigid to a loathsome man!
When the get her to Cormac home not only does he resist the pull of attraction but he reaffirms his vow to never marry or touch a lass after his betrothed is murdered by Brigid stepbrother and his sister raped!
The 5 stars are for Brigid who was abused and left to drown more than once while trying to rescue Cormac sister from the darkness in herself and make a place within the clan!
Brigid just wants love and a family but that dreams seems more impossible by the day!
Cormac admits he cares but can not let her in!? When a traitor in the keep works with the enemy to take Brigid back then Cormac must decide if his vow is more important than his love for a woman who wants his complete surrender! Bravo!
Cormac one of a loving wholesome family! Brigid from locked dungeons, beating for daring to speak at all!
When Cormac brother Camden thinks to kidnap her for revenge he stops the wedding of Brigid to a loathsome man!
When the get her to Cormac home not only does he resist the pull of attraction but he reaffirms his vow to never marry or touch a lass after his betrothed is murdered by Brigid stepbrother and his sister raped!
The 5 stars are for Brigid who was abused and left to drown more than once while trying to rescue Cormac sister from the darkness in herself and make a place within the clan!
Brigid just wants love and a family but that dreams seems more impossible by the day!
Cormac admits he cares but can not let her in!? When a traitor in the keep works with the enemy to take Brigid back then Cormac must decide if his vow is more important than his love for a woman who wants his complete surrender! Bravo!
July 9, 2024
Standalone story with strong main and secondary characters. The H has vowed to not love again when he lost his betrothed and best friend. He's dealing also with guilt over his sister being raped and in a dark place. The rape is off page but aftermath in this story.
The h is loving and caring and has a bad life too. The story unravels at a perfect pace as does their romance. The H fights his feelings because he feels it betrays the women he lost.
Many nasty villains to keep the story exciting. Story has suspense, intrigue, violence and HEA. Story ended at the 91% mark on my e-reader, rest teaser for other stories.
Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and described once. No cheating, no cliffhanger, sweet epilogue one year in the future. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. I recommend this series and author. (ljb)
The h is loving and caring and has a bad life too. The story unravels at a perfect pace as does their romance. The H fights his feelings because he feels it betrays the women he lost.
Many nasty villains to keep the story exciting. Story has suspense, intrigue, violence and HEA. Story ended at the 91% mark on my e-reader, rest teaser for other stories.
Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and described once. No cheating, no cliffhanger, sweet epilogue one year in the future. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. I recommend this series and author. (ljb)
August 3, 2023
Cormac MacLean is seeking revenge for his betrothed death; he knows he must plan out his revenge very carefully. Brigid Campbell is kidnaped by her stepbrother's enemy. Then she saves the enemy Cormac's life when she takes an arrow aimed at his heart. A captivating of enemies to lovers' story as Cormac is trying to honor a vow he made to his betrothed when she was dying but finds he cannot resist Bridget and the temptation he feels her. I love the attraction between Cormac and Bridget, his wounded soul is calling out to her. True love is not always easy, fate intervenes and changes life's direction, but it's definitely worth the sacrifice. I have voluntarily read and reviewed this great story filled with the death of a loved one, kidnapping, evil family members and evil schemes. Secrets, love, lies and betrayal at its best.
August 19, 2023
Highlanders Never Surrender
The story of Cormac and Brigid is quite entailed. Brigid is from a clan whose father and brother cruelly abuse her. Her brother is also responsible for assaulting and beating Cormac's sister and killing his betrothed. Brigid is kidnapped in revenge for Ramsay's acts. Brigid is truly thrilled that she has been saved from sure death in a marriage to Sinclair. She soon finds out she is hated because of her brother and because she is a Campbell. Brigid refuses to give up, no matter what they do to her. She wants to help Maisie who has totally withdrawn within herself from the assault, even knowing she is hated. This is a story is not only about survival but exceeding under extreme physical and mental cruelties. This is a book worth reading. I highly recommend it!
The story of Cormac and Brigid is quite entailed. Brigid is from a clan whose father and brother cruelly abuse her. Her brother is also responsible for assaulting and beating Cormac's sister and killing his betrothed. Brigid is kidnapped in revenge for Ramsay's acts. Brigid is truly thrilled that she has been saved from sure death in a marriage to Sinclair. She soon finds out she is hated because of her brother and because she is a Campbell. Brigid refuses to give up, no matter what they do to her. She wants to help Maisie who has totally withdrawn within herself from the assault, even knowing she is hated. This is a story is not only about survival but exceeding under extreme physical and mental cruelties. This is a book worth reading. I highly recommend it!
January 2, 2024
I simply could not put this book down. I didn't want it to end, but Julie Johnstone keeps you turning the pages to see what it going to happen next, and after reading just 2 of her books and started the 3rd one in this collection, I can in all honesty say that I have a new favorite author.
She makes you feel as though you are fight there with the characters, that you are a part of the story. You can feel the excitement that the characters are involved in. I also like the fact that even though each book does have a romantic aspect to it, she keeps it low key enough that you don't feel like a voyeur, while still being in the story.
It is so nice to curl up in my comfy chair with a blanket and a cup of coffee and just immerse myself in a great story and live vicariously through her stories. I highly recommend this series and this author.
She makes you feel as though you are fight there with the characters, that you are a part of the story. You can feel the excitement that the characters are involved in. I also like the fact that even though each book does have a romantic aspect to it, she keeps it low key enough that you don't feel like a voyeur, while still being in the story.
It is so nice to curl up in my comfy chair with a blanket and a cup of coffee and just immerse myself in a great story and live vicariously through her stories. I highly recommend this series and this author.
August 8, 2023
Grief, vows, love, acceptance.
I loved this book. Laird Cormac is still grieving the loss of his betrothed and the ravishing of his sister a year ago. He and his brother Camden want revenge against the laird who committed these atrocities. That laird happens to be Brigid’s step brother and she has also suffered at his hand. When Cormac’s brother defies his orders and heads off to kidnap Brigid to get back at her step brother, Cormac has no choice but to follow to keep him safe. That act sets things in motion that make a great story with wonderful characters and villains. Cormac is bound by a vow he cannot break and Brigid only wants to belong and be loved. Well written.
I loved this book. Laird Cormac is still grieving the loss of his betrothed and the ravishing of his sister a year ago. He and his brother Camden want revenge against the laird who committed these atrocities. That laird happens to be Brigid’s step brother and she has also suffered at his hand. When Cormac’s brother defies his orders and heads off to kidnap Brigid to get back at her step brother, Cormac has no choice but to follow to keep him safe. That act sets things in motion that make a great story with wonderful characters and villains. Cormac is bound by a vow he cannot break and Brigid only wants to belong and be loved. Well written.
August 9, 2023
Highlanders Never Surrender
Wicked Willful Highlanders #2
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Once again, Julie Johnstone brings together fact and fiction leaving her readers feeling entirely satisfied. The two main characters are absolutely perfect together and I couldn’t see them with anyone else. They are also very passionate which I really enjoy. This book was perfect and it had everything I love about a historical romance. Julie Johnstone is one of my go to authors and this book did not disappoint in any way. It's definitely one of those books that I'll be thinking about for a long time. Ms. Johnstone, you are truly a very talented author, and you deserve so much more than five stars.
Wicked Willful Highlanders #2
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Once again, Julie Johnstone brings together fact and fiction leaving her readers feeling entirely satisfied. The two main characters are absolutely perfect together and I couldn’t see them with anyone else. They are also very passionate which I really enjoy. This book was perfect and it had everything I love about a historical romance. Julie Johnstone is one of my go to authors and this book did not disappoint in any way. It's definitely one of those books that I'll be thinking about for a long time. Ms. Johnstone, you are truly a very talented author, and you deserve so much more than five stars.
November 1, 2023
Another story that kept me reading/listening. Brigid was determined to get away from her family. Cormac and his family wanted revenge on that same family. An impromptu kidnapping brought both sides together and allowed for a mending. I loved how Cormac taught Brigid to swim and more despite the distrust between them. When necessary, he protected her. I enjoyed Brigid as she tried to better herself, accepting the caring from Cormac's clan, and wanting to share her knowledge.
The narration of Tim Campbell was as wonderful as always. I enjoyed listening to the different personalities as he read.
This is my unsolicited review.
The narration of Tim Campbell was as wonderful as always. I enjoyed listening to the different personalities as he read.
This is my unsolicited review.
November 28, 2023
Exciting
Brigid Campbell lived with her step brother Ramsey who was like her father who was also cruel to her. She is to be married to Laird Sinclair who she despised and was worried because he had already killed off 3 of his wives. She is at the alter to be wed when a commotion outside happens and everyone runs to see what is happening. She is kidnapped and taken to the MacLean castle. Where she learns that her step brother Ramsey had forced himself on the Lairds sister and killed his betroth at a tournament that Laird MacLean had beat him at. This is an excellent story, lots of excitement.
Brigid Campbell lived with her step brother Ramsey who was like her father who was also cruel to her. She is to be married to Laird Sinclair who she despised and was worried because he had already killed off 3 of his wives. She is at the alter to be wed when a commotion outside happens and everyone runs to see what is happening. She is kidnapped and taken to the MacLean castle. Where she learns that her step brother Ramsey had forced himself on the Lairds sister and killed his betroth at a tournament that Laird MacLean had beat him at. This is an excellent story, lots of excitement.
August 7, 2023
Another great one
Another book written by Julie Johnstone in my library??? Always! This one is so good. Cormack's betrothed was murdered and his sister raped by her stepbrother She was mistreated by her dad and by her step brother and now he was trying to marry her to a man who had already murdered three wives. but fate changes the course of their lives when Cormack's brother decides to kidnap her revenge for their sister who hasn't spoken since her rape. no one could have forseen the outcome for that.
Another book written by Julie Johnstone in my library??? Always! This one is so good. Cormack's betrothed was murdered and his sister raped by her stepbrother She was mistreated by her dad and by her step brother and now he was trying to marry her to a man who had already murdered three wives. but fate changes the course of their lives when Cormack's brother decides to kidnap her revenge for their sister who hasn't spoken since her rape. no one could have forseen the outcome for that.
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December 27, 2023How this woman ended up so sweet and kind is beyond me, but she is kidnapped by Laird Cormac MacLean and his younger brother Camden just before she would have been forced by her stepbrother to marry a rather evil man. There's all sorts of fun, fire, and gnashing of teeth in the process the two of them finding their way to each other, but Brigid Campbell finds the loving home and family she has always wanted. Julie Johnstone has a wonderful way of bringing it all together in a warm, witty way that makes her books so glorious. I loved it.
July 29, 2023
Beautiful story! I love the enemies to lovers love stories. I could not put it down! The plot was so heartwarming, intense, and inspiring that holds your attention until the last page of the book. The book takes you to a whirlwind of emotions through the characters trials and tribulations, and you can not wait for them to overcome their obstacles and find their happily ever after. A must read!
August 2, 2023
Scotland 1262
A journey that starts from the first page and does not end until the last!
Seeking revenge a highlander ends up with his enemies stepsister. Only wanting to get her back home, a thought comes that she may be of help to his family.
Adventure, angst, wonderful characters and a love brings this story to a wonderful ending!
A journey that starts from the first page and does not end until the last!
Seeking revenge a highlander ends up with his enemies stepsister. Only wanting to get her back home, a thought comes that she may be of help to his family.
Adventure, angst, wonderful characters and a love brings this story to a wonderful ending!
August 5, 2023
I love a book full of grudges and revenge that leads the hero and heroine on so many twists and turns that I can't stop until I've found out what happens and this book had all that and more! I also loved book 1 in this series so if you haven't read that one, be sure to go back and read. They are standalone books along the same theme. Fabulous!
October 15, 2023
Hello Brigid !!!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Cormac and Brigid, the plot that became an adventure in their lives had me hooked. I love a strong woman in any genre because Women Rock !!😇😇, this truly is a very good read and for once I was really surprised who the betrayal turned out to be so historical romance lovers don't pass this up !!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story of Cormac and Brigid, the plot that became an adventure in their lives had me hooked. I love a strong woman in any genre because Women Rock !!😇😇, this truly is a very good read and for once I was really surprised who the betrayal turned out to be so historical romance lovers don't pass this up !!!
March 1, 2024
Love melts a hardened heart.
Even with the abuse and loneliness Brigid experienced her entire life she still retains a compassionate heart and willingness to help and protect others.
Laird Cormac MacLean has built a wall around his heart and vowed to never love again after the loss of his wife. What he doesn’t know is this tiny ray of sunshine will melt his heart and change him forever.
Even with the abuse and loneliness Brigid experienced her entire life she still retains a compassionate heart and willingness to help and protect others.
Laird Cormac MacLean has built a wall around his heart and vowed to never love again after the loss of his wife. What he doesn’t know is this tiny ray of sunshine will melt his heart and change him forever.
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