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Heart of a Highlander #1
Heart of Shadows
Orphaned Isabel Fitzhugh is fourteen when she first comes to Wolvesley by the sea, traveling with her cousin to see her wed to the formidable Liam MacTavish. She’s unimpressed, with both her current situation and her cousin’s husband. She thinks he is aloof and arrogant, well deserving of her cousin. But then Liam intercedes on her behalf against a mean-spirited tormentor and everything changes. He becomes to young Isabel, one to whose memory she clings when he is gone.
Liam MacTavish is quite happy to ride away from his new bride in the spring of 1296, thrilled to rise to the defense of his beloved Scotland. He doesn’t return for five long years, many of those spent in an English prison, renounced by his own father, left to rot. He finds Wolvesley not at all as he remembered, derelict and all but abandoned, save for the redoubtable Isabel—whom he barely recalls—and an improbable cast of characters.
Both Liam and Isabel are tormented by grim shadows from Wolvesley’s past. Isabel’s fierce independence and easy smiles hide a far greater tragedy than Liam can ever imagine; Liam’s savage mien and coldness suggest he knows nothing else. And yet they are drawn to each other. Can they overcome the past, leaving behind the cruelty caused to each of them by the same person?
Heart of Shadows is the first book in the HEART OF A HIGHLANDER series. Each book is a stand-alone tale; the books can be read in any order.
Liam MacTavish is quite happy to ride away from his new bride in the spring of 1296, thrilled to rise to the defense of his beloved Scotland. He doesn’t return for five long years, many of those spent in an English prison, renounced by his own father, left to rot. He finds Wolvesley not at all as he remembered, derelict and all but abandoned, save for the redoubtable Isabel—whom he barely recalls—and an improbable cast of characters.
Both Liam and Isabel are tormented by grim shadows from Wolvesley’s past. Isabel’s fierce independence and easy smiles hide a far greater tragedy than Liam can ever imagine; Liam’s savage mien and coldness suggest he knows nothing else. And yet they are drawn to each other. Can they overcome the past, leaving behind the cruelty caused to each of them by the same person?
Heart of Shadows is the first book in the HEART OF A HIGHLANDER series. Each book is a stand-alone tale; the books can be read in any order.
332 pages, Paperback
First published June 19, 2021
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347 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
July 3, 2021
I read Ms. Ruger's previous series Highlander Heroes. Each of those books blew me away with their adventure and fabulous characters. This book Heart Of Shadows is a bit lighter on the adventure and a bit heavier on the character development. It pairs an H and h both equally damaged and stubborn and in need of soul deep love.
(Set up, but no spoilers) Apparently due to both nature and nurture, Liam has a miserable personality from the moment we meet him in this story. He goes off to war and comes back probably worse after being imprisoned for four years. His own father, laird of the Wolvesley estate, refused to pay Liam's ransom, even knowing the price his son would pay at the hands of the English. Upon Liam's return and after his father's death, Liam reclaims the family's estate, but finds it in near ruins and only barely functioning. Seven people remain on the entire property to divide up the duties with one woman, Isabel, providing the impetus to hold it all together and preventing it from falling into foreign hands. You'd think Liam would be grateful, but no, he has nothing nice to say and isn't even sure he remembers Isabel. Truth be told Isabel is a different woman than she was before Liam left for war. Back then she was a mere teenager, repressed, abused, and submissive. Now and for the past five years she's learned to be resilient and strong in the face of adversity. Liam takes back control of the manor and effectively takes measures to revive the community which, up until then, Isabel has been supporting single-handedly selling her wares at market. As Liam begins to appreciate Isabel's strength, he's also faced with her fierce independence, and although their personalities clash, he begins to admire her for those same qualities. They aren't so very different when you come right down to it. And so their tempestuous romance begins. But wait, both characters have secrets and demons that throw up obstacles to their being together.
If I have any complaints about this story it's that I wish I had more insight into the earlier lives of these two characters. Most notably how did Isabel lose her parents, and how did Liam get out of prison? I think there are stories there that may yet be told and perhaps we'll hear more in the upcoming books in the series.
The good stuff—I so enjoyed the verbal sparring and power struggles between these two characters, even if I was impatient for their romance to take off. I was intrigued by the intricately described details of what it takes to support life in a medieval castle. The world building was fantastic. I loved the general girl power of Isabel who unofficially managed the manor at barely age 20. Despite her traumatic life she was always able to bounce back. I loved that Liam had real feelings beneath his hardened exterior and let his walls down a bit once he felt loved. And I loved that Wolvesley began to thrive again through the efforts of team Liam and Isabel.
This is a lovely story of resilience, individual victories and forgiveness of self and others. It sets the tone and is a strong foundation for the books yet to come. I'm excited because this is planned to be a six book series, so there's lots more to come.
(Set up, but no spoilers) Apparently due to both nature and nurture, Liam has a miserable personality from the moment we meet him in this story. He goes off to war and comes back probably worse after being imprisoned for four years. His own father, laird of the Wolvesley estate, refused to pay Liam's ransom, even knowing the price his son would pay at the hands of the English. Upon Liam's return and after his father's death, Liam reclaims the family's estate, but finds it in near ruins and only barely functioning. Seven people remain on the entire property to divide up the duties with one woman, Isabel, providing the impetus to hold it all together and preventing it from falling into foreign hands. You'd think Liam would be grateful, but no, he has nothing nice to say and isn't even sure he remembers Isabel. Truth be told Isabel is a different woman than she was before Liam left for war. Back then she was a mere teenager, repressed, abused, and submissive. Now and for the past five years she's learned to be resilient and strong in the face of adversity. Liam takes back control of the manor and effectively takes measures to revive the community which, up until then, Isabel has been supporting single-handedly selling her wares at market. As Liam begins to appreciate Isabel's strength, he's also faced with her fierce independence, and although their personalities clash, he begins to admire her for those same qualities. They aren't so very different when you come right down to it. And so their tempestuous romance begins. But wait, both characters have secrets and demons that throw up obstacles to their being together.
If I have any complaints about this story it's that I wish I had more insight into the earlier lives of these two characters. Most notably how did Isabel lose her parents, and how did Liam get out of prison? I think there are stories there that may yet be told and perhaps we'll hear more in the upcoming books in the series.
The good stuff—I so enjoyed the verbal sparring and power struggles between these two characters, even if I was impatient for their romance to take off. I was intrigued by the intricately described details of what it takes to support life in a medieval castle. The world building was fantastic. I loved the general girl power of Isabel who unofficially managed the manor at barely age 20. Despite her traumatic life she was always able to bounce back. I loved that Liam had real feelings beneath his hardened exterior and let his walls down a bit once he felt loved. And I loved that Wolvesley began to thrive again through the efforts of team Liam and Isabel.
This is a lovely story of resilience, individual victories and forgiveness of self and others. It sets the tone and is a strong foundation for the books yet to come. I'm excited because this is planned to be a six book series, so there's lots more to come.
September 2, 2022
Heart of Shadows is book one in the “Heart of a Highlander” series by Rebecca Ruger. As with all stories by this author you can expect to experience a wide array of emotions while reading this story. The MCs are Liam MacTavish, Laird of Wolvesley by the sea, and Isabel Fitzhugh who is the orphaned cousin to Liam’s late wife, Marion. Isabel has loved Liam forever she just never imagined that there would be a time when Liam returned her love.
TW: Off Page rape, Death of a infant, and abduction
Blurb
The Hero: Liam MacTavish is a brooding alpha male. He appears perpetually angry. He has just returned to Wolvesley by the Sea after being held captive for 3-years. Although he previously married it was a marriage of duty and he had no feelings for his late wife.
The Heroine: Isabel Fitzhugh has been alone most of her life; even when surrounded by friends she has never felt the joy of loving someone and having that love returned. While Liam was held captive & reported dead, it is Isabel’s determination and fierce dedication that ultimately holds Wolvesley by the Sea together. Isabel is brave, determined, dedicated, and fierce-she will do anything to survive.
The romance between the Liam & Isabel is a perfect slow burn 🔥 and yes there is a lot of communication problems between these two hard headed characters. I was ALMOST to the point of irritation while these two continued to be utter idiots in their lack of being able to communicate 😉 Happily they do finally get it together and ultimately they earn every part of their HEA. ❤️
The chemistry between Liam & Isabel is pretty explosive and there are a few scenes that almost cause the pages to go up in flames! ❤️🔥🔥 Bring a fan & a cool drink! 😍🧯🔥
Overall I recommend this story to those who enjoy reading about brooding highlanders - you will enjoy!
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
TW: Off Page rape, Death of a infant, and abduction
Blurb
Orphaned Isabel Fitzhugh is fourteen when she first comes to Wolvesley by the sea, traveling with her cousin to see her wed to the formidable Liam MacTavish. She’s unimpressed, with both her current situation and her cousin’s husband. She thinks he is aloof and arrogant, well deserving of her cousin. But then Liam intercedes on her behalf against a mean-spirited tormentor and everything changes. He becomes a hero to young Isabel, one to whose memory she clings when he is gone.
Liam MacTavish is quite happy to ride away from his new bride in the spring of 1296, thrilled to rise to the defense of his beloved Scotland. He doesn’t return for five long years, many of those spent in an English prison, renounced by his own father, left to rot. He finds Wolvesley not at all as he remembered, derelict and all but abandoned, save for the redoubtable Isabel—whom he barely recalls—and an improbable cast of characters.
Both Liam and Isabel are tormented by grim shadows from Wolvesley’s past. Isabel’s fierce independence and easy smiles hide a far greater tragedy than Liam can ever imagine; Liam’s savage mien and coldness suggest he knows nothing else. And yet they are drawn to each other. Can they overcome the past, leaving behind the cruelty caused to each of them by the same person?
The Hero: Liam MacTavish is a brooding alpha male. He appears perpetually angry. He has just returned to Wolvesley by the Sea after being held captive for 3-years. Although he previously married it was a marriage of duty and he had no feelings for his late wife.
The Heroine: Isabel Fitzhugh has been alone most of her life; even when surrounded by friends she has never felt the joy of loving someone and having that love returned. While Liam was held captive & reported dead, it is Isabel’s determination and fierce dedication that ultimately holds Wolvesley by the Sea together. Isabel is brave, determined, dedicated, and fierce-she will do anything to survive.
The romance between the Liam & Isabel is a perfect slow burn 🔥 and yes there is a lot of communication problems between these two hard headed characters. I was ALMOST to the point of irritation while these two continued to be utter idiots in their lack of being able to communicate 😉 Happily they do finally get it together and ultimately they earn every part of their HEA. ❤️
The chemistry between Liam & Isabel is pretty explosive and there are a few scenes that almost cause the pages to go up in flames! ❤️🔥🔥 Bring a fan & a cool drink! 😍🧯🔥
Overall I recommend this story to those who enjoy reading about brooding highlanders - you will enjoy!
4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
December 31, 2023
4.25 stars
This was a rollercoaster of a story.
Didn't expect that going into it. It's heavier than I expected but it was also beautiful because the heroine found her tribe and eventually love (although no one would ever be good enough - not even the hero- for her because she's just amazing, resilient, kind and the list goes on).
I'm not gonna say any more, because it would require spoilers.
This was a rollercoaster of a story.
Didn't expect that going into it. It's heavier than I expected but it was also beautiful because the heroine found her tribe and eventually love (although no one would ever be good enough - not even the hero- for her because she's just amazing, resilient, kind and the list goes on).
I'm not gonna say any more, because it would require spoilers.
December 1, 2021
I have no words to describe my joy. This book combined my love for historical romance with my love for all things Scottish. My heart is full.
Liam and Isobelle had to fight hard for their love story. Times were hard and the secrets and lies almost destroyed them. How Isobelle was able to see the good in all people, after the unfairness, horror and sadness of her young life is admirable. She wanted to love and be loved. Liam was a hard man, made harder by the injustice his own father threw at him. It took awhile for the light in Isobelle to warm his hardened heart, but it was worth the wait.
If you love historical romance told with the grace of a true storyteller, DON'T MISS THIS WONDERFUL BOOK. This author was new to me and I feel like I have fallen into Christmas early by finding her.
Liam and Isobelle had to fight hard for their love story. Times were hard and the secrets and lies almost destroyed them. How Isobelle was able to see the good in all people, after the unfairness, horror and sadness of her young life is admirable. She wanted to love and be loved. Liam was a hard man, made harder by the injustice his own father threw at him. It took awhile for the light in Isobelle to warm his hardened heart, but it was worth the wait.
If you love historical romance told with the grace of a true storyteller, DON'T MISS THIS WONDERFUL BOOK. This author was new to me and I feel like I have fallen into Christmas early by finding her.
September 27, 2021
One of a kind
Wow. I have yet to find the words to describe how brilliant this book is. But man its been a long time since ive read a book that affected me so. Beautifully written. Oh my gosh i love it.
Wow. I have yet to find the words to describe how brilliant this book is. But man its been a long time since ive read a book that affected me so. Beautifully written. Oh my gosh i love it.
January 4, 2023
I loved the story between Liam and Isabel. Even the remaining seven of Wolvesley are all wonderful. While I had an idea of what some of the secrets might be, it was still heartbreaking to read. Definitely check the content warnings.
dnf
February 28, 2025DNF at 52%
Just not holding my attention. Secret keeping for secret keeping’s sake. Clearly leading up to some big dramatic violent end.
2.28.25
Just not holding my attention. Secret keeping for secret keeping’s sake. Clearly leading up to some big dramatic violent end.
2.28.25
November 10, 2021
Love conquers all.
Isabel’s cousin is to marry Liam the son of the laird and she goes along. Isabel is marked by a birth mark on her face and is often ridiculed. Liam is stern and wears a constant scowl. When he is held captive by the English for 4 years and his father refuses to pay the ransom, he becomes even more hardened. His father and his wife are both dead now. He returns home to find his home abandoned except for 7 people, including Isabel, and the place in disrepair. They had been told he was dead. He can’t believe how hard Isabel works to keep everything going and doesn’t understand her commitment to it when he doesn’t know if even he will stay. When 3 of his former war buddies arrive by sea unexpectedly, he decides with their help to rebuild his clan and his attraction to Isabel grows. However they both have secrets that keep them apart until…..
Isabel’s cousin is to marry Liam the son of the laird and she goes along. Isabel is marked by a birth mark on her face and is often ridiculed. Liam is stern and wears a constant scowl. When he is held captive by the English for 4 years and his father refuses to pay the ransom, he becomes even more hardened. His father and his wife are both dead now. He returns home to find his home abandoned except for 7 people, including Isabel, and the place in disrepair. They had been told he was dead. He can’t believe how hard Isabel works to keep everything going and doesn’t understand her commitment to it when he doesn’t know if even he will stay. When 3 of his former war buddies arrive by sea unexpectedly, he decides with their help to rebuild his clan and his attraction to Isabel grows. However they both have secrets that keep them apart until…..
October 31, 2021
Too much history
Isabel has a birthmark on her face and is treated like a servant/slave by her cousin she has followed her at the young age of 14 to assist her in wedding the Laird son Liam! Liam is the first man to defend her and she was full of starry eyed hero worship for him! Liam left and was captured and spent 5 years away from Worsely his clan and keep turning mercenary after his father refused to pay ransom!
Isabel has survived unspeakable horrors at the hands of her cousin and Liam's father! Isabel survived horrors to stabilize the keep and help the remaining members survive after the evil vile Lairds death!
Candle making became a way to earn coin and help them survive! Liam comes and is shocked by the neglect and abandonment of the keep as he decides whether to stay and try to right all the wrongs he is drawn to Isabel and she to him!
There are so many heart wrenching secrets between them It does not seem like a future for them is possible built on love! Love does do d a way! This beautiful love story will make you laugh, cry and scream for some of the injustice! These two deserve a happy ending!
Isabel has a birthmark on her face and is treated like a servant/slave by her cousin she has followed her at the young age of 14 to assist her in wedding the Laird son Liam! Liam is the first man to defend her and she was full of starry eyed hero worship for him! Liam left and was captured and spent 5 years away from Worsely his clan and keep turning mercenary after his father refused to pay ransom!
Isabel has survived unspeakable horrors at the hands of her cousin and Liam's father! Isabel survived horrors to stabilize the keep and help the remaining members survive after the evil vile Lairds death!
Candle making became a way to earn coin and help them survive! Liam comes and is shocked by the neglect and abandonment of the keep as he decides whether to stay and try to right all the wrongs he is drawn to Isabel and she to him!
There are so many heart wrenching secrets between them It does not seem like a future for them is possible built on love! Love does do d a way! This beautiful love story will make you laugh, cry and scream for some of the injustice! These two deserve a happy ending!
Read
November 6, 2021I am stopping at 43% right now. I have lost interest in the story and MCs. Maybe I will finish it one day.
October 28, 2021
Great love story
I enjoyed this book. I have read so many with my unlimited and ran out of books to read and came across Liam and Isobel’s story and couldn’t put it down.
I enjoyed this book. I have read so many with my unlimited and ran out of books to read and came across Liam and Isobel’s story and couldn’t put it down.
October 21, 2021
You will enjoy!
I liked this book..I knew it was going to be a happy ever after but the happenings getting there just kept coming making it even more interesting!
I liked this book..I knew it was going to be a happy ever after but the happenings getting there just kept coming making it even more interesting!
August 10, 2021
At first I didn't think I'd like this. The beginning was a little dark. Isabel, 14, is mistreated by cousin and Liam is very severe. But glad I hung in there. Liked it quite a bit. Good writing, interesting story, like having an epilogue even though it was a tad sappy. Two passionate love scenes. I will look for more books by this author
September 2, 2021
Great story and characters
I love a good historical romance. Especially set in the Highlands. This book is far and away better than anything I’ve read recently. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
Just the right amount of steam, story progresses nicely without dragging, there’s some action, and the characters are relatable.
I love a good historical romance. Especially set in the Highlands. This book is far and away better than anything I’ve read recently. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
Just the right amount of steam, story progresses nicely without dragging, there’s some action, and the characters are relatable.
June 27, 2021
Stay with it
At first I thought that there was just too much arrogance and indifference in our hero, but he really he managed to show himself worthy of Isabel. I could hardly read for the tears. Can't wait to read the next book!
At first I thought that there was just too much arrogance and indifference in our hero, but he really he managed to show himself worthy of Isabel. I could hardly read for the tears. Can't wait to read the next book!
September 18, 2021
beautiful
Had me in tears in parts. An original story with a HEA. Loved all the characters and their struggles. A lot of reflect dialogue at first but then the story and mystery takes off and your fully absorbed.. really loved this story! Highly recommend
Had me in tears in parts. An original story with a HEA. Loved all the characters and their struggles. A lot of reflect dialogue at first but then the story and mystery takes off and your fully absorbed.. really loved this story! Highly recommend
September 21, 2021
Touches our soul
This is one of those books that touches your heart and soul. The characters, Liam and Isabel both have demons they must conquer. They each battle their demons then each other until love finally wins. Great story.
This is one of those books that touches your heart and soul. The characters, Liam and Isabel both have demons they must conquer. They each battle their demons then each other until love finally wins. Great story.
June 27, 2021
Excellent
This is a wonderful story. I truly enjoyed reading this entire story. It was exciting and had a great plot
This is a wonderful story. I truly enjoyed reading this entire story. It was exciting and had a great plot
July 19, 2021
Good story — Well written
Good story with unexpected twists and turns. Interesting descriptions of life in a castle in the Scottish highlands in the 13th century.
Good story with unexpected twists and turns. Interesting descriptions of life in a castle in the Scottish highlands in the 13th century.
January 18, 2022
I'd like to believe red deer, Bridget was incarnated by her babe. 🦌 Or at least watch over her. 🙏
Liam❤️ Isabel
Liam❤️ Isabel
August 29, 2024
When I picked up this highlander romance with a brooding man on the cover, I wasn't expecting to stay up to 2AM crying about it. But alas...
It was a really heartwarming story with a sweet romance to boot. The characters were well-rounded and likable, from the FMC and MMC to the cast of side characters. It wasn't mind-blowing by any stretch, and definitely not historically accurate, but I still enjoyed it a lot for what it was.
ROSE 🌹: CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, WELL-WRITTEN TRAUMA
I absolutely adored the two main characters, Isabel and Liam. Coming back together after 5 years of unimaginable hardship and trauma, their stories and actions made sense. They both had the right amount of flaws, and there was growth/development for both of them over the course of the story, both individually and together. The side characters were also great, particularly Dougal and Violet. The found family worked and didn't feel cliche.
The romance was very sweet, even though it was filled with ups and downs. There wasn't insta-love (besides the crush Isabel had on Liam as a young teenager), and they way they grew together was very well done. I adored how the thing they loved most about each other was their flaws.
This was definitely a lot heavier than I expected, as Isabel in particular goes through immense trauma during the 5 years apart (it is not graphic and only told through dialogue after the fact but trigger warning for sexual abuse). I was surprised with how well-written it was - the trauma deeply affected Isabel and wasn't suddenly just fixed by another man. Liam was gentle with her, and she knew and implemented her boundaries.
THORN 🗡️: HISTORICAL ACCURACY, UNNECESSARY DRAMA PLOT AT THE END
I didn't pick this up expecting historical accuracy, but it was still noticeable enough that it bothered me, especially the dialogue. Ruger puts in the classic "Scottish" terms and language to give it an authentic feel, but other times the dialogue felt so modern and anachronistic. I can't remember specific examples, but there were some egregious ones.
BUD 🌷: NEXT BOOK
I think I'm just going to go read the second book right now because it was overall an enjoyable reading experience, and I'm in the mood for more highlander romance.
It was a really heartwarming story with a sweet romance to boot. The characters were well-rounded and likable, from the FMC and MMC to the cast of side characters. It wasn't mind-blowing by any stretch, and definitely not historically accurate, but I still enjoyed it a lot for what it was.
ROSE 🌹: CHARACTERS, ROMANCE, WELL-WRITTEN TRAUMA
I absolutely adored the two main characters, Isabel and Liam. Coming back together after 5 years of unimaginable hardship and trauma, their stories and actions made sense. They both had the right amount of flaws, and there was growth/development for both of them over the course of the story, both individually and together. The side characters were also great, particularly Dougal and Violet. The found family worked and didn't feel cliche.
The romance was very sweet, even though it was filled with ups and downs. There wasn't insta-love (besides the crush Isabel had on Liam as a young teenager), and they way they grew together was very well done. I adored how the thing they loved most about each other was their flaws.
This was definitely a lot heavier than I expected, as Isabel in particular goes through immense trauma during the 5 years apart (it is not graphic and only told through dialogue after the fact but trigger warning for sexual abuse). I was surprised with how well-written it was - the trauma deeply affected Isabel and wasn't suddenly just fixed by another man. Liam was gentle with her, and she knew and implemented her boundaries.
THORN 🗡️: HISTORICAL ACCURACY, UNNECESSARY DRAMA PLOT AT THE END
I didn't pick this up expecting historical accuracy, but it was still noticeable enough that it bothered me, especially the dialogue. Ruger puts in the classic "Scottish" terms and language to give it an authentic feel, but other times the dialogue felt so modern and anachronistic. I can't remember specific examples, but there were some egregious ones.
BUD 🌷: NEXT BOOK
I think I'm just going to go read the second book right now because it was overall an enjoyable reading experience, and I'm in the mood for more highlander romance.
August 1, 2024
I’m a relative newcomer to reading romance novels. I only started reading them on a regular basis about a year and a half ago, and so I’ve mostly been trying to figure out what sub-genres and authors I like. I’ve picked up a lot of free books as I explored, and also have a preference for books in Kindle Unlimited. I don’t mind paying a reasonable price for a book, but when I have no idea whether I’ll love it or hate it, I don’t want to spend actual cash out of my retirement income.
Heart of Ice by Rebecca Ruger was one of those free books. I liked it so much, I wanted to read more by Ms. Ruger. That’s when I discovered I’d started with book 6 of a six book series. So, of course, I went back to Amazon to find the first book. (Note: Book 6 really is a standalone novel. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything by not having read prior books.)
Heart of Shadows is that first book and did not disappoint. As I raced to the end (staying up far later than I should have to reach it), I started thinking about why I could not put this book down and go to bed. (Yeah, hazard of being a writer. Sometimes you jump out of the story to analyze why it does or doesn’t work.) And what I figured out was that it had the perfect balance of push/pull or why?/why not? (should they be together). They would come together, only to pull apart again. And it was all realistic.
At the same time, both the hero and the heroine kept thinking about the fact that there were events in their past that made them unworthy of love. What could they have done that was so awful? And who was buried in that unmarked grave?
So, propelled by the questions and the seesawing of emotions, the story moved forward as the external plots of rebuilding Liam’s (the laird’s) estate and Isabel’s drive to be independent of him by growing her own business drove the action. There wasn’t a single slow section in this book to start me skimming.
There were very few proofing errors and nothing that drew me out of the story. (My tolerance for poor punctuation and grammar mistakes is low and the number one reason for not finishing a book.)
Overall, I’d rank Heart of Shadows as 6 stars out of 5. It was that good.
Heart of Ice by Rebecca Ruger was one of those free books. I liked it so much, I wanted to read more by Ms. Ruger. That’s when I discovered I’d started with book 6 of a six book series. So, of course, I went back to Amazon to find the first book. (Note: Book 6 really is a standalone novel. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything by not having read prior books.)
Heart of Shadows is that first book and did not disappoint. As I raced to the end (staying up far later than I should have to reach it), I started thinking about why I could not put this book down and go to bed. (Yeah, hazard of being a writer. Sometimes you jump out of the story to analyze why it does or doesn’t work.) And what I figured out was that it had the perfect balance of push/pull or why?/why not? (should they be together). They would come together, only to pull apart again. And it was all realistic.
At the same time, both the hero and the heroine kept thinking about the fact that there were events in their past that made them unworthy of love. What could they have done that was so awful? And who was buried in that unmarked grave?
So, propelled by the questions and the seesawing of emotions, the story moved forward as the external plots of rebuilding Liam’s (the laird’s) estate and Isabel’s drive to be independent of him by growing her own business drove the action. There wasn’t a single slow section in this book to start me skimming.
There were very few proofing errors and nothing that drew me out of the story. (My tolerance for poor punctuation and grammar mistakes is low and the number one reason for not finishing a book.)
Overall, I’d rank Heart of Shadows as 6 stars out of 5. It was that good.
May 29, 2024
Love this book, I've read it several times.
I love the progression of the characters. From her being abused by her cousin and his father to her hero worship of Liem. Liems initial indifference to his realization that she was everything he wanted is very enjoyable. I adore female characters who are strong and speak their mind and the men who are strong and confident enough to love them. As for the men, I love male leads who are ALL MAN. A true highland warrior and not afraid to fight for what and who they want. If they have a great smirk and love a challenge then even better. With a lot of steam because, let's face it steam is part of life...even hundreds of years ago. The just weren't willing for people to know about it, but just because they didn't want it known doesn't mean it wasn't happening.
I gave this a 5 star rating because I truly enjoyed this book.
What I TRULY hate, and I know you may not agree is, when the cover images don't match the characters description. I find it weird to try to reconcile the book description of the characters with the cover. Why have a cover with images if the images have nothing to do with said book.
I love the progression of the characters. From her being abused by her cousin and his father to her hero worship of Liem. Liems initial indifference to his realization that she was everything he wanted is very enjoyable. I adore female characters who are strong and speak their mind and the men who are strong and confident enough to love them. As for the men, I love male leads who are ALL MAN. A true highland warrior and not afraid to fight for what and who they want. If they have a great smirk and love a challenge then even better. With a lot of steam because, let's face it steam is part of life...even hundreds of years ago. The just weren't willing for people to know about it, but just because they didn't want it known doesn't mean it wasn't happening.
I gave this a 5 star rating because I truly enjoyed this book.
What I TRULY hate, and I know you may not agree is, when the cover images don't match the characters description. I find it weird to try to reconcile the book description of the characters with the cover. Why have a cover with images if the images have nothing to do with said book.
March 30, 2023
This is my introduction to Rebecca Ruger’s writing and I am hooked. She masterfully crafted rich characters whose relationships developed slowly. The ML is the recently returned laird who has anger issues stemming from his cruel father. His take-charge leadership style disrupts the small group of residents left at his home. Isobel is the FL who has kept the estate running since the late laird died. Coming from a life of poverty and abuse, she nevertheless has a bright, happy outlook. They’re destined to be together but both are so stubborn and their communication so difficult that at times I despaired a HEA. Thankfully it happened. And thank you, Ms. Ruger, for the wonderful epilogue. I loved reading about their lives going forward.
It is also my first time hearing Stewart Crank, who did a nice job narrating the Audible version of the book.
5-Stars all around.
It is also my first time hearing Stewart Crank, who did a nice job narrating the Audible version of the book.
5-Stars all around.
December 19, 2023
What a wonderful story of hardship, loss, personal, struggles, and healing. I really liked how this situation portrayed a laird in a from a perspective of defeat, and needing to rebuild their home. Within the context of this and the battles taking place, this surely was the reality for many clans as well as the common people living there. Both Liam and Isabel were wonderful in their own tortured way. Each had personal demons to vanquish while hoping for a deeper connection with someone who actually and genuinely cared them. I thoroughly enjoyed how the story progress and eventually arrived at a satisfying HEA.
April 22, 2024
Wow, this book grabbed onto me and wouldn't let me go. I'm definitely adding Rebecca Ruger to my favorite author list.
Isabel is such a strong and determined woman. I wished she had told her secrets to Liam...it would have saved lots of miscommunications and heartache. Liam can be such a jerk, but I liked how he always tried to reach out to Isabel. I did wonder how come he never asked how . He's got some nice dirty talk too.
All the side characters came to life for me and I felt like I was at Wolvesley along side them.
The epilogue was wonderful.
Isabel is such a strong and determined woman. I wished she had told her secrets to Liam...it would have saved lots of miscommunications and heartache. Liam can be such a jerk, but I liked how he always tried to reach out to Isabel. I did wonder how come he never asked how . He's got some nice dirty talk too.
All the side characters came to life for me and I felt like I was at Wolvesley along side them.
The epilogue was wonderful.
October 19, 2024
Well written, but...
I truly despise this particular trope. The two spend most of the book getting and staying in their own way. They each have moments (especially Liam) where you think, ah they will fix it here. But they don't and I just kept getting angrier.
This could have been a better story had they relented sooner and been together when danger threatened them. I simply will not put myself through any more of this by reading more in this series.
I truly despise this particular trope. The two spend most of the book getting and staying in their own way. They each have moments (especially Liam) where you think, ah they will fix it here. But they don't and I just kept getting angrier.
This could have been a better story had they relented sooner and been together when danger threatened them. I simply will not put myself through any more of this by reading more in this series.
July 8, 2025
Well formed and seamless
Big props to the author for doing their research regarding the time the story is set in and how accurate they kept it. The story was rather long and built up slowly but it all flowed seamlessly, at least to me it felt like a soft stream of reading. One could easily get lost in the story and feel like a part of it. An emotional roller coaster at times but in all the good ways.
Big props to the author for doing their research regarding the time the story is set in and how accurate they kept it. The story was rather long and built up slowly but it all flowed seamlessly, at least to me it felt like a soft stream of reading. One could easily get lost in the story and feel like a part of it. An emotional roller coaster at times but in all the good ways.
December 14, 2021
A heartfelt story......
Loved it...had all kinds of characters that you love to hate. Not all the the characters are so beautiful, but are beautiful skin deep, loved Isabel , laughed with her and cried with her, the hero? He needed a little work, great read, beautiful sexy love scenes, way too hot, will read the rest in this series.
Loved it...had all kinds of characters that you love to hate. Not all the the characters are so beautiful, but are beautiful skin deep, loved Isabel , laughed with her and cried with her, the hero? He needed a little work, great read, beautiful sexy love scenes, way too hot, will read the rest in this series.
January 20, 2022
Sweet story but could use some editing. There was frequent (and rather bizarre) misuse of the the word "that". Instead of using "so that" or "such that" or "leading to" or even just "so," the word "that" was used by itself. It was confusing. These errors were on nearly every page, I found it very distracting.
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