True to the Highlander

Loch Moigh #1

by Barbara Longley

Treachery rules the Highlands of 1423. With their king captured by the English, Scottish nobles plot to ransom James behind the back of the brutal regent holding their land in his iron grip. But not every clan wishes to see King James back on his throne…

Sitting atop this powder keg of bloodthirsty rivalries, Malcolm of clan MacKintosh takes the mysterious, lone maiden he finds along his road as a bad omen…though an undeniably beautiful one. When he attempts to save her from a rogue within his own garrison, she deftly brings Malcolm to his knees. Who is this willful lass who has so quickly laid siege to his heart?

Alethia Goodsky has met all kinds working at the New York Renaissance Festival, but no one like the fortune-teller who tasks her with a cryptic life-saving mission and flings her into the fifteenth century. Now Alethia must rely on her wits to unravel the mystery in this violent land. Malcolm has sworn to protect her, but her gifts may soon make her his protector. With enemies closing in, Alethia must choose between finding a way home…and remaining true to her Highlander.

Genres: Time Travel, Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Paranormal

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 18, 2014

About the author

Barbara Longley graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education/Human Relations, and holds a Master’s in Ed./SLD from the University of Minnesota. When the integration district where she taught dissolved in 2015, she transitioned into writing full time. Ms. Longley is listed on RWA’s Honor Roll of Bestselling Authors, and her books have garnered many awards, including a Maggie, the Holt Medallion, a National Readers’ Choice, two Heart of Excellence awards, a Bookseller’s Best award, and Diamond Award for reaching more than a million readers (2015). Ms. Longley creates memorable heroes and heroines who grow into their strength and go on to save the day.

Reviews

[♡Karlyn P♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5* -- 'IT WAS GOOD, BUT I WANTED MORE' -- Stars.

True to the Highlander is a time-travel Highlander romance with a light romance, some moderate danger and angst, and a touch of magic. Alethia is working at a Renaissance fair when a chance meeting with a fortune teller results in her being sent back in time to 1423. She was only told she needed to help save someone, but otherwise had no idea of her purpose. Fortunately, she is strong and brave but never stupid.



Malcolm and his warriors discover her, and what proceeds starts off pretty hilarious. It doesn't take Malcolm long to realize he has a connection with her, and vows to keep her safe. From there, the rest of the story focuses on her adjusting to her new environment, the people around her, or her trying to get home to modern times. She gets to use her 21st century knowledge, and even entertains everyone with her amazing violin skills. There are also elements of danger around both Malcolm and her, and despite a long lull in the middle it does pick up and we see a climactic battle toward the end.



My Thoughts
This is a tough kind of book to review, as I enjoyed it but yet not a lot really stood out for me.

On one hand, it was sweet and well written story. It had many likable characters and a bit of steamy romance (just a bit, by the way). And it even had some fun moments where we see Alethia struggle with the realization she has gone back to the year 1423. Best of all, she was able to take on Malcolm both physically and mentally, which may be the best part of this book. Alethia really was a great heroine type.



But on the other hand, it was lacking as well. The story started strong then went into a long lull. It picked up at the end and even had a nice surprise ending, but not enough. I was bored through much of it.

The romance wasn't all that interesting either, especially for a Highlander romance. Malcolm and Alethia's romance lacked heat and tension, and they really didn't spend much time together. The story focused mostly on Alethia from her POV, and so the romance gets a bit lost by too many side story lines with her learning her new environment and taking on a deaf orphaned kid.



When we did get time with Malcolm, he was aloof more often than an alpha-warrior type. I guess what I am getting at is that I didn't really FEEL much heat or passion between Malcolm and Alethia. We are told what they feel, but I didn't always see it and feel it. The heat was only tepid warm, not a hot read. And that includes both the sexual tension as well as the sex itself. The flirting was mild, their desire more implied than shown, and the 'coming together' scenes short and tasteful.

There were some other niggles, such as how quickly the deaf orphaned 5 year old picked up American Sign Language. (Literally he was fluent within a few weeks). On the plus side, I loved that kid.



Bottom line:If you are looking for a hot Highlander romance with a sexy alpha-male, this isn't it. But if you want something more sweet and character driven, this might work well for you. (Your mileage may vary.)

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Someone I care about is in grave danger, I'd do anything to help".

On walking into a fortune teller's tent at a renaissance festival in New York, Alethia is set a task –– to save the life of an unknown person. Then she passes out and when she wakes, finds herself in Scotland in the 15th century.

When Malcolm MacKintosh finds Alethia lying on the road unconscious he decides to take her to his clan home and to offer her protection. But Alethia, with her 21st century views and determination to fulfil her mission isn't all that impressed with his efforts.

As old rivalries boil over into violence, Malcolm must learn to trust Alethia who holds the future of the MacKintosh clan in her hands, and as they find a measure of love, the threat of Alethia being snatched back to the 21st century looms over them.


True to the Highlander is rollicking good fun. There is time travel, a little magic, a bit of that old Mark Twain novel A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, evil villains and heroes wearing kilts. It's not too serious, just a fun story, well told.

Many thanks to Montlake Romance and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

True to the Highlander is one of those historical romances that can lead you a bit astray with the belief that it is a paranormal romance; I grant you there is a bit of magic involved, but so many historical novels were written when magic was more accepted and understood so for me I can’t agree with that classification. What I can say is that it was a wonderfully written, sensual and spectacular historical romance that takes you back to the time of fairies, knights, and chivalry, where, though lives of women were hard, there were enough good men in the world to give you hope that love could be found. Alethia is a brilliant and breathtaking character with the will and strength to see her through even the most challenging of life experiences: falling in love with a true highlander. Malcolm is a strong alpha male, with the inner core of goodness that allows him to shine as a man to strive to find for yourself. Together Malcolm and Alethia sparkle with passion, whether they are fighting or loving, and seeing them together on the page draws you in to their every emotion. There was just enough villainy in this story, historically accurate too I might add, to give the goodness of the MacKintosh clan a foil and give all those sexy men something to do with their time, other than drive the women nuts. I have read a lot of authors still early in their careers, but I am happy to have gotten in on the ground floor with Barbara and will be spreading the word about her to all my favorite friends. I can’t wait to find out how she handles Robley and Hunter’s stories, the next two in the trilogy, but I will be sure to keep the tissues and chocolate on hand for those, after reading Alethia's story.

for full review see my blog at:
http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread for 2nd time. Time Travel.

[Robin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have so many feelings about this book, both good and bad, that I don't quite know where to begin.

Malcolm & Alethia Romance : 1 of 5
Secondary Characters & their Stories : 4 of 5
End Result Overall : 2.5 of 5, rounded down because it was supposed to be a *romance*

This book would have been a craptastic romance between Alpha Jerk (the heroine's own words, but stunningly accurate) and Mary Sue (our oh-so-perfect heroine) if not for the book's one saving grace - the amazing secondary characters. These secondary characters kept me entertained and interested in the book long after I would have given up on the intended couple and shelved this as a DNF (did not finish).

Alethia is WAY too perfect, the personification of a "Mary-Sue" character. :(
How many modern day women do you know that are half Native American, play violin well enough to get into Julliard Music Academy (!!), have an eidetic memory, can use sign language even though they are not deaf, can hunt with a bow and arrow as well as skin their kills, can cure common ailments with locally available herbs - even herbs found in other countries hundreds of years ago, have mystical paranormal visions, etc ... Seriously?
OK, she's the perfect creation for being thrown back through time a few centuries but she's not a believable real person. This character is not at all average for our modern day, and is not the kind of person you could reasonably expect to bump into. If she exists at all, she's more like one in a million.
While she has some good qualities and could have been a likable heroine, she's not easy to relate to at all and her "oh-so-perfect" Mary-Sue qualities did impact how much I was able to enjoy the book.
Her amazing Mary-Sue-ness is explained away at the end, when there's the big reveal that along with the deaf kid Hunter, they are part fae and related to Giselle who is a fae. *eye roll*
At one point in the story, I did feel sorry for her when she was almost gang raped, but more because that's a horrible thing to have happen to ANY woman, not because I actually liked Alethia as a person.

Alpha Jerk - well, there's not much more to say there. Malcolm may be gorgeous and a good warrior, but he's a control freak to the extreme and that negated any of his other good qualities. Although he showed a few moments where you thought he may be a reasonable man, it was largely overshadowed by his alpha-jerkiness. I did not care for him at all.

My feelings varied between neutral and dislike for both of the main characters. I think they deserved to wind up together so no one else should have to suffer being with them. Their romance was nothing I cared much about or rejoiced over their coming together, as I have little concern for either of them beyond if they will care for Hunter (their adopted deaf boy).
I enjoyed the other 'secondary" characters and stories within the book, especially Hunter, but I did not enjoy the romance between Malcolm and Alethia.

I haven't read this author before, and I'm not sure if I will read her works again. On the one hand, the main "romance" was just awful. On the other hand, the secondary characters and stories were quite intriguing. If other writings of hers drop into my lap I may read them, but I will not seek out her other books.

[Lynsey is Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Time to Fall in Love

This was my first book from Barbara Longley but it definitely won't be my last. It was just pure entertainment inside and out, up and down, and all around. I loved it!

As Highlander time travel romances go, this has to be one of the best I've read, not counting the almighty Outlander, of course. (Although, I try and refrain from calling that a Highlander romance, since it's so much more). What I particularly loved here in True to The Highlander was how quickly the heroine was thrown back to the 15th century, getting the story moving straight away, while giving just enough information on Alethia's life in her own time for us to understand her uncanny ability to survive and thrive in such a traumatic situation. Next, I loved that this would have been a great Scottish romance even without the time travel aspect, and how that only added more to it. It wasn't the focus; only coming in to play at certain times, but it lent itself brilliantly to some really outstanding scenes. A particular favourite for me was Alethia playing her violin - at which she is concert-level good - to a stunned and rapt audience who had never heard anything like it. And also, interspersed, were some of the cutest dialogue sections as both Malcom and Alethia tried to wrap their head around the other's manner of speech. And lastly, on top of aaaaaalllll that goodness, I just loved the couple! Malcom and Alethia were a perfect match, and their love story was positively delicious. Although they're centuries of civilisation apart, Malcom was forward thinking enough, and Alethia, tied to her historic roots as a biracial, part Native American woman, was canny enough to meet him halfway, creating one of the sweetest, and often times hilarious, relationships I've read for a long time!

"I'm no' a Bossamee" *snort*

Recommended in particular to fans of Karen Marie Moning's Highlander series, this is the start of a series not to be missed for all lovers of Scottish Romance with a touch of magic!

4 1/2 Stars ★★★★1/2
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Emmy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half wasn't bad, but the second half started to fall apart for me a bit. When you bring a 21st century woman back in time, you expect her to have a bit of a backbone, right? She's obviously not going to just submit to the 15th century gender norms. And of course that's how Alethia is depicted - as being outspoken, independent and sassy compared to other 15th century women - but she still capitulated to Malcolm's demands quite a bit. And don't get me started on after she got pregnant. She just fell apart and become the biggest stereotype of a pregnant woman. She starts irrationally crying at everything and there's one scene where Malcolm literally carries her around and feeds her because she's too distraught and therefore helpless to think straight or take care of herself. It's actually making me angry thinking back on it. grrr

[ᑭᑌᑎƳᗩ [Punya Reviews...] · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...

True to the Highlander, book 1 of Loch Moigh series, was my first book by Barbara Longley. The story itself was so much fun that I cruised through it almost without one frustrating moment. I have to admit that I’ve been on a reading slump lately and this book, which I requested rather on whim, came as a fresh breath of air. Alongside good writing and funny moments, True to the Highlander was dramatic with a touch of mystery and a lot of Malcolm and Alethia, who came to be known as ‘True’ to Malcolm’s clan.

When I requested for this book, I had no idea it was a time travel story. I think the word ‘Highlander’ overshadowed everything else. Need I say that I love anything that says ‘Highlander’, hmm? ;) I'm not that big on time-travel theme cause more often than not I end up having to suspend my disbelief to a great level, and yet, the author was able to avoid the clichés rather well.

The story, though, starts with our h, Alethia coming out of a Renaissance fair where she was working too. An orphan, Alethia had been gifted with ‘visions’ since childhood, a fact she does everything to hide. Who wants to be known as a ‘freak’, right? Alethia is not completely comfortable with it but being of mixed origin with her Native American ancestry and heritage to guide her, she had had the teachings of the paranormal from an early age. She’s not in denial about her ‘powers’, yet she doesn’t know what she can actually do about it, or with it. The answer sort of falls into her lap when she finds drawn to the tent of Madame Giselle, an elderly gypsy fortune teller. Alethia had previously tried avoiding her because she could sense something in her that always made her uneasy. But with the old woman’s rambling about her ‘fate’ and her role as a savior to someone, Alethia becomes confused. And then, she’s thrown into the 15th century, on the path of one Malcolm MacKintosh, the heir to the MacKintosh clan.

Malcolm was returning to his home when he and some of his fellow warriors find a woman, Alethia, on their path; more precisely, right in front of Malcolm. Because she was wearing consume that looked like a medieval era dress, they had nothing to be suspicious of, not initially. Also, Alethia’s other belongings, the stuff like her violin, laptop etc. she carried with her was in her bag that laid close by. One warrior, a mean looking one named Hugh, takes particular interest in her when she regains her consciousness. He thinks Alethia’s reply about her origin is sketchy at best, so she’s fair game for whatever he wants to do with her. It also doesn’t help that her darker skin and beautiful black hair makes her exotic and very attractive. Malcolm could attest to that cause he himself starts fighting a pull the moment she’s conscious......... and then things start happening that made me laugh so hard. Alethia trying to escape, calling Malcolm names in 21st century lingo, Malcolm trying to decipher what the hell those means... gosh, it was one big mass of hilarity!

Alethia isn’t particularly amused when Malcolm, very strictly, tells her that she’s going home with him. No questions asked. Once she understood, to her absolute horror, where Giselle had send her and even though his big warrior’s body with blonde good-looks threw her completely off-kilter, Alethia keeps trying to escape him, not knowing what lies ahead of her. Is he good or a bad guy? Can she trust him? Or the biggest one; where can she actually go, if not with him? It’s not like she knows anyone here. And that Hugh gave her the scare too. So, though they fought and bit each-other...er, no Alethia did that to Malcolm (don’t ask), and even though she calls him an ‘Alpha Jerk’ (throughout the story mind you), she is forced to go with Malcolm. If just to sort out her life and regroup, then escape once she knows what da hell has happened to her!

Once at Malcolm’s keep, it doesn’t take a lot for Alethia to feel at home. The people are nice, and though they have their own suspicions about her identity, Alethia isn’t made to feel like an outsider. Malcolm’s younger sister, Elaine and their mother, Lydia were one of the firsts to welcome her with open arms. Alethia, vaguely tells William, Malcolm’s father and Laird to the MacKintosh clan about coming from a far away country. Because of her darker skin and exotic looks, they believe in her story. Alethia even draws a garbled map of the USA, not that either Malcolm or William could understand. Because her father was the chief of their tribe, both Malcolm and William deem her as the daughter of a King. But they’re still not entirely sure of what to make of this situation.

Malcolm though, makes Alethia his ‘responsibility’ and demands more than once that, if she ever, ever needs anything, she should come to him. It was just way too funny to find a pouting Malcolm when Alethia wouldn’t ask him for something she needed or looking for. And I loved when Alethia would go ‘you’re not the boss of me’ to anything she deemed Alpha Jerk-ish coming from Malcolm. Malcolm’s 15th century ear would translate it as ‘you’re not the bossame’, leaving him wondering what the hell she meant by that. There were plenty of examples like that, Malcolm or his clansmen trying to decipher Alethia’s 21st century lingo, and thinking that the odd sounding words must be something that goes around where she’s from. I especially loved Robley, Malcolm’s cousin, going ‘tam-pons’... I think I laughed for a good while. This I absolutely loved in this book; the differences shown between the languages from centuries wayyyy apart with clarity.

As Alethia tries settling in, a plan of escape begins forming in her mind. She hides her bag and all the 21st century stuff very carefully in a trunk in hopes of grabbing them when she leaves. At first, she’s not sure if she could eat the food, the hygiene level becoming a big concern. Also, tampons, an absolute necessity! She finds a pack in her bag and feels rather victorious! With Elaine’s help and friendship she also finds new clothes and learns her way about the keep. One thing Alethia doesn’t like though, is being the Alpha Jerk’s responsibility. She’s way too attracted to him for her own good, so being just a ‘responsibility’ doesn’t sit well. But that was only Malcolm’s way of telling her he has started to care for her. He was a great guy, our Malcolm; a responsible man who loved his family and his clan wit everything he has to give. He’s devoted and a worthy heir to his father. He knows he needs to marry soon as his parents have been nagging him to do... and as the days passed, the notion of marrying Miss Alethia begin looking quite pleasant to our Malcolm. :p

In the meantime, Alethia kept thinking why is she actually here. By now, she has decided it must be Malcolm who’d need saving at some point. He has already mentioned about meeting Giselle once and the information only proved strongly that she is here for him. Then there was the locket the old woman gave her. Malcolm, it seems possesses, something given to him by Giselle that looks like a match of her piece. Alethia was so uneasy about her predicament that she sold her piece to a local man at the first chance she got. She also rescues a little deaf boy, who has been abandoned after his all the members of his family perished. The boy had no one to call his own, and seeing him begging for scraps from the people as they ate, Alethia’s heart broke for him. She knows sign language and decides to teach the boy so that he can at the least communicate with her.

With Malcolm’s permission and Elaine’s help, Alethia takes the boy in, revealing his beautiful face after a thorough cleanup. She also gives him a new name as no one seems to remember what he was called by his family. Hunter becomes Alethia’s shadow in a few days, forming an unbreakable bond that came into light the same day she took him in, that they can communicate through their thoughts. He also proves to be very intelligent, getting along with sign language that Alethia has been teaching him. On this queue, Alethia thinks this would be great if the people here also learn how to communicate through sign language, a venture that proves to be successful with many, if not all.

Gradually, it’s revealed that Alethia is a girl of many talents. A gifted musician, Alethia won many fans here, including William and Lydia, also Malcolm’s uncle and aunt, Robley’s parents. At each festival or gathering, Alethia is requested to play her violin, a piece of instrument very foreign to the people here. But, like everything else, they took this as a part of a faraway tradition. Alethia also starts thinking of doing things, helping around, to earn their trust. Bit by bit she begins falling in love with this land and the people who live in it. But it’s her unwavering attraction to the Alpha Jerk is what gets to her. I thought Malcolm’s appreciation of her was plain to see, even if the portrayal was a bit medieval-ish for Alethia’s liking. This is also why she’d interpret things in a wrong way, leaving her confused about Malcolm’s feelings.

William, the Laird, goes on a mission for King James, leaving Malcolm the responsibility of the keep. He is accompanied by his brother and sister-in-law, so Robley and his elder brother, Liam are left with Malcolm to share this immense responsibility. Robley’s family keep is attacked by another hostile clan, Hugh being a part of this treachery. He was, of course, trying to bite the MacKintosh arses cause he was kicked outta here for his vile nature. Malcolm leaves home for days and takes care of it, showing that he’s indeed a fine warrior.

At this point, Liam’s restlessness catches Althia’s attention. After much cajoling, he confides in her. After learning of Liam’s dilemma, Alethia is very sympathetic. She, of all people, knows what it feels like to fall in love so unexpectedly. Poor Liam, fell in love with Mairen, the daughter of the Laird of Comyn’s, the arch enemy of the MacKintosh. They’re truly in love and the girl is entirely innocent of any treachery her father and clan have been responsible for in the past. But Liam has no idea how can he save his beloved from her piece of sh!t of a father and worse, marry her without any objection. Alethia asks him not to give up and talk to Malcolm for a solution. But Liam stalls this, knowing the situation is hopeless. Alethia also meets a handsome guy at a fair who seemed distinctly interested in Elaine. Upon query, she confesses to Alethia that she and Dylan are in love. But he’s a second son, her half sister’s brother-in-law. William wants his daughter to make a prosperous match, love doesn’t really play a big role here. Elaine knows that her man will not bring a lot as a second son, hence the prospect doesn’t look well. Moreover, William has already made a match in Dylan’s clan with his eldest daughter... so, again, another situation that leaves another couple in a tangle. Here too, Alethia asks Elaine to not to lose hope and if possible, to stand up for what she wants so badly.

When the nosy clan members decide that Malcolm is not doing enough to stake his claim on Alethia, whom they’d thought a match for him, they scurry about finding a new ‘suitor’ for her. Robley, the rogue, steps in, more than a little interested. Malcolm hears of it alright, which ticks him off rather bad. Poor guy! Finally he decides that there’s no better time than to marry Alethia just about now... which he does, without her even realizing it until after the handfasting is done. Now, Alethia should’ve been incensed and she is for some times, but she can’t deny her feelings for Malcolm’s alpha Highlander ways any longer. Giving in to him only seemed right. There’s no say what the future holds, and she can only make the best of what she found here; a new home, a man and his clan to love and care for.

Things do turn out to be rather smashing for Alethia and Malcolm when their new-found intimacy as married couple brings them even closer. Malcolm even adopts Hunter as his son not only because he knew this would a requirement if he marries his ‘True’ but also because he has come to care for the boy. Even though her life seems fulfilled at the moment, Alethia can’t but worry that someday everything would be torn away from her. She still doesn’t know what is it that she has to do in order to save Malcolm. In the meantime, a couple of months pass by while they wait for William’s return and a priest to visit the clan after the winter months to marry ‘officially’. Winter leaves and soon, Spring is upon them. Good news fills the MacKintosh keep as Alethia finds out she’s expecting Malcolm’s baby.

Just about then, King James decrees that the clans stop their eternal feuds, the son of the Laird of Comyn comes with an apparent peace offering. But Malcolm’s gut feeling warns him otherwise. It only enhances when Alethia keeps having vivid visions, the very first for her, which are as bloody and gruesome as they can get. All about Malcolm and his men falling into a trap cooked up by the Comyns and being brutally murdered in their hands. It was heartbreaking cause she would see the chaos unfolding in front of her, yet like a specter could do nothing but watch. When Malcolm learns of her dream, he doesn’t brush it aside, asking for her help. After the careful planning, what Alethia does is to tell him that she’s coming with them. Malcolm, of course, is having none of it. Logical choice, seeing how it’s so dangerous. There’s also the fact that she’s pregnant with the MacKintosh heir. Soon, one day, Alethia wakes up, to find Malcolm gone already to avoid her tagging after him.

Alethia is desperate if nothing else. Her own gut feeling is telling her that she’s going to lose Malcolm if she’s not present there and solve this puzzling piece of mystery. She thinks this is THE reason for her being here. No one would take her so she leaves on her own. I wasn’t sure I liked her taking such a big risk while she’s pregnant but soon, I think I understood where she stood. It’d make any girl desperate if she thinks the love of her life is in grave danger. Liam and Robley were probably expecting something like this, knowing how headstrong she can be. So Alethia finds them catching up on her soon enough. She requests Liam to work with her so that he can save Mairen in time before her father kills her (a part of her vision that shook Liam and enraged Malcolm). It was a bloody scene, full of death and misery, an unbelievable experience no doubt. MacKintosh warriors were ready for the Comyns and it seemed like they were winning... until Malcolm stumbles and Comyn’s son has the upper hand. Alethia was ready too, watching stealthily from the gallery, ready with her bow and arrows. She ultimately saves Malcolm’s life. When Malcolm finds out, he’s enraged because all he could think of was the danger she was in, that he was about to lose her and their baby because Comyn laird follows her to the gallery and tries to kill her when Malcolm and his men burst in to save her.

On their way home, Alethia learns from Malcolm’s talks with his men about Giselle being seen around the town. Mairen is taken in the MacKintosh clan with Malcolm and his family’s support. I thought this is the final conflict which has been solved successfully. But William was yet to return, as well as Liam’s parents. And when they do, Malcolm finds himself in another kind of trouble, something that hurts Alethia so much that she decides to ran and find Giselle, then map out her next step so that Malcolm doesn’t do anything rash and disappoint his clan’s expectations. The scene where Alethia introduces them to the wonders of the future (aka her laptop, among other things) was an amazing scene. It leaves you wondering about the possibilities. The final revelation regarding Alethia’s connection to Hunter and the Fae surprised me quite a bit because that thought didn’t even cross my mind. Giselle, unsurprisingly, is the center of it all. I was pretty happy that Alethia chose to stay here with Malcolm’s clan instead of returning to the 21st century.

Overall, a very entertaining read. Definitely recommend if you love highlander and time travel romances. 4.25 stars. The next book is Robley’s story, who, it seems, has gotten deep with Giselle as well (no, I don’t mean the way you’re thinking). Can’t wait to find out what he’s up to!


This ARC was provided to me by Montlake Romance via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.

[Maria11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story. I listened to the story on my way to work and walking.

Started slow dragged some, but overall kept me wanting to know what was going to happen.

Malcolm was humorous at times and I loved how True put him in his place. He did only have her interest in mind. He was steadfast with his love of her even in the face of leaving everything. The time travel was interesting and that gypsy woman is a ton of trouble. I am sure she will be a continuing factor in the series.

A sweet time traveler romance.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Julliard student violinist works a New York renaissance fair when she finds herself in the tent of a creepy gypsy fortune teller who delivers a confusing message. But that's not as confusing as finding herself suddenly lying on the side of the road surrounded by a group of Scottish highland warriors.

When the leader insists on taking her back to their clan castle, can she and her costume fool them long enough for her find her way back to the 21st century?

This is an engaging story that I couldn't put down. Modern and medieval mix for some humorous exchanges and a sometimes rocky but definitely"make you smile" love story complete with castles, kings, swords, dirks and daggers. I loved it!

[Bridget Vollmer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2 stars. I was pleasantly surprised as this was more than your typical romance novel.

[Gilgamesha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-reading this after I have read so many romance novels...I realized I love it even more but for different reasons. I really liked Alethia this time.....boy is she a resourceful and independent female...made me feel inadequate and completely unprepared for a time travel scenario. As a scientist it is not hard for me to fathom a time travel story....or a drift or gap in space time continuum...and as someone influenced by eastern cultures the magic is also easy for me to accept as it has been a part of my childhood...there are aspects of the book where you have to suspend disbelief but you are reading a romance novel lol so don't expect too much logic and sense....I guess that is why I really enjoy this book. I can experience complete abandon, pure and uninhibited love, and a bit of cute scotish drama. Great read. Definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a escape....especially if you want that escape to be in the arms of a Scottish knight...with huge muscles but a bigger heart and gentle soul. As you can tell I am completely smitten....Ohhh Malcolm 😉



Ohhh how I loved this book. I suffer from a chronic case of snorting when reading cheesy romance novels. This book had me grinning throughout the book like a fool. I can count on the digits of one hand the number of times I have come across a romantic hero like Malcolm. In real life they're extinct or gay lol (hence my choice to read romance novels instead of interacting with the opposite sex in real life). So in short I fell in love with Malcolm immediately...True was a little harder to like....but once you start seeing her through Malcolm's eyes you cant help but admire her. This is one of those books that I return to every few months to read my favorite scences like in the field when she first realizes she is in love with Malcolm or the way they get married lol. Malcolm knows her too well. Anyways I definitely Recommend it.

[Tank · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally!!! A Highlander romance author/series I can get into that has all the elements I enjoy and is as close as I can get to a Julie Garwood or Karen Marie Moning series. Wit, humor, romance, fraternity, an ALPHA bad ass and a 21st century heroine who can hold her own. A few exhausting/aggravating moments and missing the crazy clan members that make every Highlander romance hilarious. Glad I found this and can't wait to see what book two has in store for me.

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, easy, time-travel Highlander book. I liked it! I'd definitely purchase another one of Ms. Longley's books.

[Aoife · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

When Alethia Goodsky ends up in a fortune teller's tent at a Renaissance Fair, she doesn't expect to end up in 1423 Scotland, and in the arms of Malcolm MacKinley - heir of Fife. As Alethia comes to realise she is stuck in 15th century Scotland, and somehow she holds the talent to save Malcolm's life, she can't end up falling for the Scottish warrior, and finding herself at home 500 years in the past.

This book was one of those random Kindle deals I ended up accumulating, and honestly, when I pulled it from my TBR Jar, I wasn't expecting too much from it. But it ended up surprising me, and I'm all down for reading the rest of the books in the series and following the other characters on their own time travelling adventures.

Now, there are a lot of Outlander similarities here and it would be hard not to with a time travelling Scottish romance. But for anyone who loves Outlander, or wants Outlander vibes, without reading a 600+ page book and also something a bit lighter in content - this is perfect.

There are some scenes in this where sexual assault is threatened, though never acted upon, and a problematic moment when the character of Alethia is tricked into marriage that just made me uncomfortable. Alethia is also part Native American in this book though I do not believe this is own voices (I could be wrong) and I know very little about Native American history or culture, so I can't say if there's elements that could be wrong or misrepresented.

I did like the romance that played out between Alethia and Malcolm, and I enjoyed how well and quickly she settled into her life in Scotland. It was of course, very handy and lucky she just so happened to have so many skills that meant she was able to survive in the 15th century so well (I mean, knowledge of plants and medicinal herbs, archery, hunting, basket weaving, sewing and embroidery, music, come on).

Overall an enjoyable read, and I will be reading the rest in the series eventually.

[Reading Fanatic · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book. The story that unfolds is romantic, and bewitching, with a perfect touch of humor. Furthermore, the characters are all fully developed and relatable; not only the protagonists, but also the support characters, such as Malcolm's cousins, Robley (hero of the upcoming book 2) and Liam, and his sister Elaine. I also enjoyed the author's writing style, and it is obvious the book has been professionally edited (so often not the case in today's world of self-publishing, and much appreciated by this reader.) The story is engaging from the very beginning, when Alethia, a half White, half Native American woman, is sent back to the 15th century, with the dubious assignment of saving someone's life. One minute she's in the tent of a fortune teller, at a Renaissance fair, the next she's laying on the side of a "road" in medieval Scotland.

When Alethia wakes up, she finds herself surrounded by several brawny Highland warriors. She tries to bluff her way out of her situation, but when it becomes clear she's all alone, Malcolm--the leader--decides to take her with them. Alethia doesn't go quietly; however, and within minutes of their meeting she has the hunky Scot, swooning, brings him to his knees--literally--and has drawn his blood. LOL As for Malcolm, from the first moment he lays eyes on Alethia, he is drawn to her beauty. Malcolm, son of a Laird and heir to an Earldom, is all alpha-male, bossy, arrogant, and overbearing. I loved him! Almost from the very beginning Malcolm begins to plan a future for himself and Alethia, although, of course, he doesn't tell her his plans! Alethia, however, is not interested in a romance of any kind. All she wants is to find a way back to her century! It doesn't matter that she finds Malcolm attractive, or that his kisses turns her knees to water, she is determined to go home.

When she can't find a way back, Alethia then focuses her efforts on completing the task she was sent to do, but first she has to figure out exactly what that is! She's convinced that once she's done that she will be returned home. This is no rush to love romance-- despite the fact that Malcolm seems smitten with the love-at-first-sight bug. The romance that develops between Alethia and Malcolm, progresses at a slow pace--IMO, a realistic pace. As time passes, Alethia begins to realize that she may forever be stuck in the 15th century, so she turns her attention to trying to adapt to her new home, and make her own way. I loved the way the author incorporated Alethia's Native American heritage into the story. Thanks to her upbringing on an Indian Reservation, with her father' people, Alethia has learned a lot of survival skills that stand her in good stead for life in the primitive past (such as trapping, hunting, and the like.)

In the meantime, she tries to fight her feelings for Malcolm, who as the son of an Earl must make an advantageous marriage. Nonetheless, despite her efforts, her feelings for Malcolm tumble full into love. This causes Alethia a lot of anxiety, as she now knows that no matter what, her heart is destined to be broken, whether or not she returns to the 21st century--she'll either have to give up Malcolm, or else her family. There is a significant paranormal aspect in the story--aside from the time travel itself, which was the result of magic--in that not only is Alethia a truth-sayer, someone who can tell whether or not a person is lying, but she also has visions at one point in the story, and she has the ability to communicate mentally with a small boy in the MacKintosh clan.

For the most part the story is realistic--I'm not talking about the time travel or the magical aspects, which is not real (at least I HOPE time travel is not real)--but, there were a few instances where I had to stretch my imagination in order to accept what was portrayed. For instance, I didn't find it believable, that everyone so quickly became proficient at sigh language. Sign language is a complete language like any other, and takes months, even years, to master (unless, of course, one is submerged in the language, which isn't the case here.) Then there was another time, when Malcolm suffered a severe injury, where we are told the wound was so deep that you could see right down to his shoulder bone, yet within days he is performing activities that weren't the least bit feasible (the nurse in me had to scoff at that.)

Moreover, Alethia does get on my nerves a couple of times towards the end of the book, because her actions, IMO, were borderline TSTL. But, to be fair, considering the circumstances in which Alethia found herself, and her belief of those circumstances at the time, her behavior wasn't that stupid (but I was still annoyed. LOL) Nevertheless, this is a fabulous story. I loved it and highly recommend it. I would not say it's a compelling read, but it certainly is dynamic. If I could I would rate this book 4 1/2 stars. FYI, this is not a clean romance. There are a few explicit love scenes, although the sex content is much less when compared to other similar books I've read. Happy reading!

[Sophia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Delight:

A modern woman with a gift for music enters a gypsy's tent at a Renaissance Fair only to find herself in 15th Century Scotland just as a band of Scottish warriors from Clan MacKintosh ride up. Malcolm has the distinct feeling he is seeing his future in feisty Alethia's eyes when he offers her the protection of his clan. I enjoy a good time travel romance and medieval Highland Scotland and a modern heroine seemed just the thing.

True to the Highlander is the first in a series of time travel related romances. Brilliant violinist Alethia is whisked back in time with a gypsy's ominous words that she is there to save a life. When she ends up among the warring clans of the Scottish Highlands and meets warrior and protector, Malcolm MacKintosh and is nearly raped by another she has no doubt that danger is all around. But, she's a modern woman and used to doing things on her terms so Malcolm's dictates for her safety don't set well and she stubbornly goes about matters her own way captivating the hearts of an entire clan in the process. Malcolm has enemies working treachery at his doorstep and a woman who finds danger without even trying confusing him and turning his heart in knots.

This story was a mixed bag for me. If I didn't take it too seriously, it was just the thing and a good time was had by all. I enjoyed it as a light time travel romance with the excitement of clan fighting and that tension that comes with the time travel part about going back or staying. I liked the characters and had a good laugh several times, particularly when Malcolm was constantly in the dog house for being overbearing or misunderstood. They both had sweet natures underneath it all and were a good match.

But that said, I noticed other things and might have ignored some, not all. The romance was not developed. It was just suddenly there for both of them. And, I would have been all right. Just like I would have been all right with Alethia having an improbably diverse group of skills that just happen to fit each need and circumstance that she encountered. She's an excellent musician and was on her way to Julliard so the music makes sense, but then let's tack on natural healer, sign language expert, self-defense skills that drop Malcolm three times, archery champ who can shoot an arrow over several yards at a moving target from a different elevation, and wins every heart in the castle even though she tends to hide in her room or take off into the woods more often than not.


These, I might have rolled my eyes at and went along with, but then we get to what got me frustrated with her. The helpless damsel in distress five times. It got annoying when she won't listen to a word Malcolm says (and, to be fair, he got high-handed and overbearing- I get it- but don't go off half-cocked to prove his point) so she ends up in danger (one time, even a five year old knows that what she's doing is a bad idea and tells her so). She thinks she's tough, but she's in a raping and pillaging era and can't get that through her skull when she rushes outside the castle unattended when few men will go off alone. Oh, and how cute, she's going to chase after the clan warriors who are going into battle with another clan's warriors to protect Malcolm- um, twice (yes, that was sarcasm).


I loved all the characters even Alethia. I liked that the author wrapped up a couple of side character's stories and set up a few future stories. The epilogue was adorable and a good end to the story.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fan of well-written and researched time travel fiction, especially novels with a Highlander/Celtic fantasy, "True to the Highlander" was a wonderful read. The story is a delightful blend of action, witty dialog, and engaging characters. The heroine, Alethia Goodsky, was refreshingly brave, intelligent, self-sufficient, and compassionate 21st century woman who was transported, via magic, from a New York Renaissance Festival back to 15th century Scotland.

Malcolm MacKintosh, the hero, is a fierce warrior and protector of his clan and family. He was immediately drawn to this exotic young woman who simply appeared at his feet and because of an encounter with a fortune teller (the same one who has sent Alethia back in time) Malcolm has sworn to protect Alethia, his True. However, with his enemies closing in, it may be True's gifts that protects Malcolm. These two had a chemistry that was natural and poignant, it was nice to see the romance between these two develop from friendship to love. At times though, Alethia was far too stubborn when it came to trusting the Malcolm regarding her safety while at the castle keep. Her referring to Malcolm, a seasoned warrior and protector, as "alpha-jerk" got old after a while.

Still, it was the humorous incidences and secondary characters that gave the story substance. I chuckled at Alethia's excitement that she had tampons in her backpack along with soap and shampoo. It was hysterical when Malcom, his family, and friends tried use the strange colloquialisms used by Alethia, especially "bossamee."

I loved the introduction of the orphaned deaf child, Hunter, who Althea adopts as her own and teaches sign language so that he can communicate and open the world up to this lonely child. It was heart-warming to watch as this neglected deaf child become a vital and adored member of the clan. It was wonderful to see both True and Hunter become the heart of the story.

My one criticism...I agree with one reviewer's distain of the brutal beating of the pregnant female character. I detest violence against women in romance stories. Nevertheless, unlike the overwrought and over-written brutalities and rape-fests of Galbadon's"Outlander" doorstoppers, "True to the Highlander is a poignant, uplifting, and beautiful time travel love story. I look forward to reading the next three books in this fantastic series.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars!

New York- Present Day

Alethia Goodsky has the gift of being able to read people.... knowing if they tell the truth or lie. She's working at a Renaissance Festival and feels like the fortune teller is always watching her. She always tries to give her a wide berth but one day finds herself walking past the tent and getting invited in. Madame Giselle gives her a pendant with a crane on it which takes her by surprise because her father's people, the Anishinaabe, belong to the Crane clan. Another surprise is that the pendant was crafted long ago in Scotland. Her mother had Scottish ancestry. She had been a MacConnell. Giselle tells her she has deeper gifts than she realizes. Alethia had lost both her parents at a young age and her grandmother raised her. As she goes to leave the tent she finds herself flung into the past.

Northern Scotland - 1423

Malcolm MacKintosh is heading to his father with an important missive when he finds Alethia passed out cold on the ground. He and his men are wondering who she is and why she's there, alone. They clearly think she's highborn because of her clothing and jewelry. She comes to, he snatches her from the ground and puts her on his horse and refuses to go back for her bag which was a huge mistake. Malcolm cannot know why her belongings mean so much to her, especially her violin. She uses her self defense tactics and presses on his neck putting him to sleep. She jumps from the horse and runs. He comes to and goes after her, finding one of the men who was with his group, a Hugh Fraser, circling her. He makes Hugh leave which angers Hugh. Malcolm thinks him a spy for the Red Comyn and knows him to be cruel, spiteful, and perverse. They've made an enemy.

These two.... they keep me laughing! Alethia is a spitfire. Malcolm is entranced by her and loves her spunk even though at times he surely could find himself pulling his hair out. She wins the love of his people and her sight will save his clan. Their way will be full of deadly threats but the love they share will see them through.

This is the first book I've read by Barbara Longley and as soon as I finished reading this I bought HEART OF THE DRUID LAIRD. I find myself anxious for book 2 in the Loch Moigh series, THE HIGHLANDER'S BARGAIN.

[Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" · Rating 3 out of 5]

I WANTED TO LOVE IT BUT DIDN'T

I was prepared to give True To The Highlander 5 stars. Until near the end of the story when Alethia was leaving Malcolm to find the Fairy Giselle. She is brutally attacked by an old enemy Hugh and his gang of thrugs beaten and brutalized while pregnant. This was to much You don't beat up the lead pregnant heroin. What is it with us women who think its ok to write such abuse? Ms. Longley the author ruined the story in my opinion with this scenario. The story was very well written without this scene.. True to the Highlanders resembles The famous books Outlander series by Diane Gabaldon. Now a Starz TV show Outlander. Ms. Longley has borrowed some of the scenes from Outlander and made them her own. Which was a good take on her version of time travel. Until she decided to do her own take of a violent attack on Alethia. I went from Oh WOW this is a awesome story to What the Heck this is BAD!!

Alethia is at a present day New York a Renaissance fair when she meets and gives a helping hand to Madame Giselle. Madame Giselle give Altheia a pendent to wear that throw he back into the past 1423 Scotland. Malcom comes upon Altheia passed out on the road. This love story begins and it is very good. Malcolm calls Alethia True becasue she has the gift of foresight and being able to tell if a person is lying or telling the truth. This comes in handy and Alethia saves Malcolm's life several time. Her visions also, help save Malcolm's Clan. All the secondary characters are well written and the story is very fast paced. I really felt like I was there. I just wished that the author Barbara Longley had pulled back her hand an stopped writing before the attack on a child and a pregnant women. Sorry the Book Went down hill for me after those scenes. I was all tuned to read bk2 but have decided I better move on from this series.

[Carolina Firefly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh. The FMC was what failed me in this book, mainly because she was just too perfect for time travel, too perfect to exist.

Half Native American, half Scottish? Perfect. Means she knows how to hunt with a bow and arrow and set traps, and then kill and skin her rabbits, tan their hides and make jerky. (Btw, she also got a deer. Tell me how she carried the whole carcass back to the castle with only a 5 year old to help, and no one asking her any questions?)

Need to know how to navigate the Middle Ages? No worries, she’s practiced her curtsy while working at Renaissance Faires.

Need to charm her way into the good graces of the castle denizens? She’s a master violinist.

Need to fight off her rescuer/attacker? She took some self defense classes once.

Need to cure the weaver’s son of dysentery? She has a handwritten book of the herbal medicine of her tribe, and has no trouble sourcing the plants (a continent and an ocean away) that will cure that right up.

Need to know the womanly arts of the 15th Century? No problem, she sews moccasins, knows beading, and makes her own Ren Faire costumes, so sewing is easy.

Need to save a deaf orphan? She knows ASL because her grandmother was deaf. Need to teach said orphan everything he needs to know to sign? Mystical mental connection.

Need to save Medieval Hottie’s life? BAM! She’s half-fae and gets visions.

Need to move the “romance” along? Perfect. She can just forget all that self-defense mastery and the fact that she’s a crack archer and instantly become helpless in the presence of the Enemy Laird or the Foster Traitor and thus need rescuing by the Grand Alpha Jerk Hero.

You can’t have it all. Leave Outlander to what it does best.

[Hollie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a creative time-travel historical romance

I have to say, I enjoyed this book. I think this would be a good read for my friends that prefer "safe" reads. The heroine is a virgin (and I'm thinking the hero may have been as well, this was never really addressed, but at one point when the deed was finally done, he made the comment that it exceeded his fantasies. He could have been referring to sex with the heroine, or sex in general, but I prefer to think he was referring to both.) The characters came across as solid and likeable. The plot was fast paced and engaging. While this book should have had an insta-love feel to it, I never really got that vibe. It felt as if their relationship developed over time which is exactly how I prefer it. The reason I am rating this as a 4 star book rather than 5 is because there were so many instances of LACK OF COMMUNICATIOIN. This really started to annoy me. I wanted the hero and heroine just to TALK things out and address their issues. This happened on numerous occasions, they just didn’t communicate well and this led to unnecessary angst, hurt feelings and misunderstandings. Overall, this was still a good book that I would easily recommend. I plan to see what else this writer has available.

[JJH--Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, finally, finally--a time travel romance I really got into! I really love this genre, but it's been awhile since I read one that I didn't think was silly--I know, time travel romance--not very realistic stuff to begin with, but they usually end up with me rolling my eyes quite a few times. I wouldn't consider it a "fluff" piece--but it wasn't dark either. I thought the story line was well thought and flowed well. I am not a history nut, so I can't vouch for factual validity, but I thought it was very entertaining. I thought Characters were well defined, and multi-dimensional. The H and h both make mistakes, but it felt their actions were explained well. Very good action/suspense, and spicy sex scenes that were well written. (I also liked the fact there was a build up to their relationship--no instant fall into bed). Good writing style, and easy to follow dialogue. Probably the only complaint I had was the quickness in which the heroine accepts she traveled through time. Besides that, definitely a keeper for me!

[Carla Hostetter · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I thought, ho-hum, another modern woman is send back in time in this case by a supernatural being to meet a studly highland lord who will steal her heart ala Outlander. However, this story had some refreshing twists and a fair amount of humor. Coincidentally, the young woman is appropriately dressed since she is working at a Ren Fair and comes prepared with a backpack full of useful items and her violin. Still, when Lord Malcolm attempts to rescue her from the side of the road, Alethia does not take to him immediately and regards him as a macho jerk. Her use of modern terms that the Scots take to and her use items such as antibiotic cream to heal though she has to squeeze it into another container provide some of the humor. She earns a place in the castle with her ability to entertain, but as all tell her, she needs to marry and gain a protector. Well, you can figure the rest out. A nice twist at the end and more laughs when she uses the last of her laptop battery power to show a few amazed Scotsmen the future--and entices one to go there in a sequel. I enjoyed it.

[Amanda Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would probably rate this closer to 3.5 stars, but I rounded up to 4. I liked the story, I really liked the hero in the story. The heroine, she was a little too much, she was too capable, too strong, and did not trust the hero enough. Malcolm wanted to protect her, but Aletheia would take off and take herself out of his protection for no real good reasons.
I also think the feast with the Comyn's was too much of a rip off of Game of Thrones. The love scenes were pretty good, I like them hotter, but they were okay. I think I am tired of books filled with misunderstandings that could be cleared up in a conversation between the hero and heroine.
I would try reading something else by this author, she does tell a good story.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

A trip back in time opens up new problems.

Read to find out the language barriers and obstacles that need to be overcome. Very interesting as to how well written the storyline was and the outcome.

[Constance Gillam]

Enjoyed it.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out full video review on my YouTube channel❤️

https://youtu.be/0JSJHp9ga8I?si=LLMY2...

Such a great start to the series, I love the time travel aspect, the story flowed nice together, and the plot was really strong.

I enjoyed watching True adapt to a life in the 14th century, I love stories like this where the main character is plucked out of their own time and put into a new environment where they have to figure out how to adapt to their new reality.

The romance between True and Malcolm was written really beautifully. I love the buildup, the banter was really good. I was on the edge of my seat with all the different revelation as the story progresses, true finding out that she’s part fae and the reasons she was sent back in time.

Overall really great read.

[Victoria (nocturnalintimacy) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kindle Unlimited.

I really liked this author’s writing. I’ll look for other books by her.

[Tickled Pink for Book Ink · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical romance will have you drooling over hot men in kilts with sexy brogues.


Alethia Goodsky is working at a renaissance festival until she is ready to attend Juilliard. This beautiful and talented violinist finds herself in 15th century Scotland after a cryptic conversation with a creepy fortune-teller. Somehow, this fortune-teller knows she has special abilities and now she has been given the task of saving someone’s life. Malcolm MacKintosh, aka “Alpha-jerk”, finds this lost maiden on his land and as intriguing and beautiful as she is, he will soon find out that she someone whose abilities have the power to save him and his clan. If he can only make sure the mysterious fortune-teller doesn’t show up to take Alethia back to her own time.

It’s not hard to understand why Alethia has a hard time remembering she should want to go home to the 21st century to her family. Malcolm takes over all her senses and makes her want to stay in the past with him. He messes up time and time again, but you can’t help but want them together. He is a completely bullheaded alpha male and although Alethia is from the 21st century, he shows her there is a bright side to a dominant man.

I loved the humor of the 21st century woman being caught in the 15th century. Alethia is so excited to remember that she had tampons in her backpack! Seriously, what did they even do back then when Aunt Flow came to visit? The men are scandalized by her feisty nature and attracted to it at the same time. Alethia must learn quickly that women were expected to act a certain way in those times, but of course, she keeps showing them that empowered women are a force to be reckoned with.

“Had he thought her delicate? Nay, he’d misjudged her. She was a wildcat. A cornered wildcat. He tried to raise his hand out of her reach. “Foolish woman, a broken finger is naught to me.”
“Fine, I’ll break it then.” Keeping her tenacious hold, she increased the pressure. “If you mean me no harm, then let me go.”
“Nay.”
“Let. Go.”
“You first.” The rise and fall of her breasts against his chest stirred his blood to a boil. His gaze roamed her face, settling on the fullness of her lips pursed into a determined pucker. An idea formed in his mind. Raising his eyes to hers, he grinned.
Her eyes widened, then narrowed. “Oh no.”
He covered her lips with his. She gasped, and he took advantage, deepening the kiss and drawing her closer. She sucked his lower into her mouth, and desire surged through his body in a rush so strong, ‘twould have brought him to his knees had he not already been on them.
Then she bit him. Damnation!
Never had he been in a more absurd predicament. How the devil had one tiny female managed to best him?”

There are plenty of twists and turns in the story and tons of action. Scotland is rife with rivalries after all. Alethia is constantly at odds with what her mission is and how she’s supposed to protect someone when Malcolm won’t let her out of the castle. Her relationship with Hunter, an orphaned deaf child, is endearing and very important to the story. The curveballs don’t stop and will keep you engrossed until the very end.

TRUE TO THE HIGHLANDER is a easy read, but also very entertaining and well written. Barbara Longley’s writing sets you in 15th century Scotland so clearly you would think you are really there. If you love historical romances with a supernatural twist, then TRUE TO THE HIGHLANDER is one to get.

✳✳ Copy provided by the author/publisher for an honest review.

✳✳ Reviewed on I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews