Highland Barbarian

Highland #1

by Ruth Ryan Langan

Death and Deception . . .

Meredith MacAlpin, Scottish noblewoman, is kidnapped at the altar by infamous Highland Barbarian, Brice Campbell, and spirited away to his fortress in the Highlands. It is rumored that he is the one who has killed her people in a series of raids.

Brice Campbell is desperate to prove his innocence and bring peace to his people, but when he kills the wrong man, his enemy vows revenge.

Can enemies become lovers? Is love strong enough to defy even death?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Scotland, Medieval, Ebooks

243 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 1990

About the author

Ruth Ryan Langan (aka Ruth Langan) is an award-winning author of romance novels. She is a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award winner and has twice been nominated for Romantic Times Reviwers' Choice Awards, for Jade and Return of the Prodigal Son. She has spent much of her career writing historical romance novels for the Harlequin Historicals line of category romances. Many of her book are set in medieval times, while others are western romances. She has also written some contemporary romances, and often includes elements of suspense in her novels.

Langan began her writing career in secret. Her family discovered her writings when her children came home unexpectedly from school one day and found her writing. When Langan's husband was told of her hobby, he bought her an electric typewriter "because 'writers need tools'". Her first book was published by Silhouette Books in 1981 after an editor picked it out of their slush pile. After the first sale was completed, Langan got an agent.

Langan is a charter member of the Romance Writers of America. She has five children and lives with her husband in Michigan.

Has also written under the name of Ruth Langan and R.C. Ryan

Reviews

[ren ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance between the MC's were really cute and I really enjoyed the writing style. This was my first book by Ruth Ryan Langan, and it's evident she has great story telling abilities. It was easy to follow and I was entertained by the character's witty exchanges. However, there were many logical inconsistencies throughout the story. And weirdly enough, the heroine who is supposedly the clan leader, had a few too many TSTL moments. I will commend her for her tenacity in trying to escape though...

And what was with Mary, Queen of Scotts... She was so weird and unbelievably childish, lol! Her scenes really detracted from the story.

Rating: 2.5/5

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

3 chapters in and I'm calling it quits!

Because..




The innocent Scottish noblewoman is kidnapped by a sexy Highland Barbarian on her wedding day! All good! I'm ok with that!

BUT she knows that said barbarian has murdered her father (did or didn't is not relevant since she is convinced of it); she saw said barbarian murder her husband (the poor man practically fell dead at her feet as soon as the priest pronounced them husband and wife) and she is threatened by said barbarian to be used as spoils or bait..

AND she has the hots for him!!

To top it off, she gets locked in the barbarian's own bedroom and sleeps off in his own bed! She tries to kill him and gets her wrist almost broken in the bargain - by the savage laird of course, who else?!
And then he kisses her and she melts!! After all of that she has butterflies flying in her tummy for the guy?!

He doesn't care for her almost broken hand at all but he admires her fire?!
And when he gives her the choice to sleep in his bed or on the floor she remains in bed WITH HIM because she is too tired!!!

I'm sorry! Truly, I am! But this just doesn't sit well with me!

[Wendy, Lady Evelyn Quince · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ruth Langan wrote a series of Highland novels over the years, some of which I'm already familiar with.

Many years ago I read Ruth Langan's "Highland Heather" and "Highland Fire" the sequels to "Highland Barbarian." I enjoyed those two books so much and have very fond memories of them. "Highland Heather" was the tale of middle sister Brenna and how she was used as Queen Elizabeth's pawn and captured by the enigmatic Morgan Grey, "The Queen's Savage," to mend the rifts between the British and Scots. "Highland Fire" was about the youngest sister, Megan, and a story filled with lots of action, amnesia, and a great, strong-willed heroine paired with a yummy Irish hero.

Here in "Highland Barbarian" we see eldest sister Meredith's story. Perhaps if I had read this years ago, I would have like it, but I found the story to be a by-the-numbers tale filled with same-old/same-old.

After the death of her father, Meredith is now leader of the MacAlpin clan and must join in an arranged marriage to an ally. However her marriage is cut short when her bridegroom is killed and Meredith is captured by Brice Campbell, the Highland Barbarian. Brice has apparently attacked the MacAlpins many times in the past (Or has he? Is he just a patsy for a more obvious, easily-telegraphed villain? Yes, he is.)

Meredith tries to escape, is thwarted, makes friends with Brice's clan members, and slowly falls in love.

But despite her love, Meredith escapes when she is conveniently captured by an enemy's of Brice who tried to rape Meredith earlier on. Brice saves the day, but Meredith flees back to her people anyway without so much as a thank you.

The only mildly amusing part is at the end when Queen Mary switches places with Meredith because they look so similar being slim redheads and all (like that's all you have to do to look exactly like someone: share the same hair color). Mary wants some alone time with Bothwell, so Meredith will stand in her stead and judge over arguments. And then the villain shows up and the predictable ending comes to its predictable end.

This wasn't a terrible book, but it just didn't excite me. The love story was bland and the action just didn't thrill me. Books #2 & #3 are much more superior to this one.

2 1/2 stars

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reread:2015

This was very well written story and was truly shocked about how munch I liked this free book.

[LadyCalico · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read a previous book by this author that was pretty good, so I was unpleasantly surprised to find this one was really dumb. The "Hero" kills the heroine's husband, as well as a dozen or so assorted innocent bystanders attending her wedding, kidnaps her, threatens to kill her, and she is immediately falling in lust with him--world's fastest case of Stockholm Syndrome, what? Then they sleep in the same bed for no good reason, even though he is trying to control his lust for her, oh yeah, and the room is full of weapons! I guess he couldn't find a spare guest room to lock her in, after all he just lives in this huge castle. Then Mary Queen of Scots drops in for a visit and finds the kidnapped heiress. Her response, rescuing her loyal subject, nah, more like--what jolly fun, everybody dance, and kiss the murderer who just tried to snap your arm! Then the hero got cornered by five assailants who stabbed him multiple times but not in any vital area so he survived...did they think his heart was located in his arms and legs? There's way more stupidity to come but let's suffice it to say that there is just no way to salvage a mess that starts like this.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love my sexy highlanders and when they come with a great love story and bad guys to fight it's all the better.
Lady Meredith McAlphin is now head of her Clan because her father has been murdered. The English have been raiding their borders for years but their neighbor Garth MacKenzie insists its another highlander who wants her land, Brice Campbell known as the Highland Barbarian. Rumors say he murders and takes what he wants and has no compassion. Garth MacKenzie tells Meredith the only way to protect her Clan and her younger sisters is to have a man to protect it so she should marry into his. In order to do that she agrees to marry his brother.

On the day of her wedding, Brice Campbell , the Highland Barbarian, and his men as vengeance for the Garth MacKenzie ruining his name by making up all the untrue stories about him and his clan go to the wedding to kill Garth to settle the debt. Not realizing but killing his brother instead and wind up kidnapping Meredith.

This is a great story of the building of trust, respect and love between two very different people and finding out some truths that it will be very hard to face.

[Tracy's Place · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 out of 5

[⚜️XAR the Bookwyrm · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had read this book several years ago, and remember absolutely loving it. However, I just re-read this book for a challenge in one of my groups, and was surprised to find that my opinion of it had changed when I finished it. It wasn't anything specific, just that I was no longer "in love" with it like I had been when I was younger. Perhaps the book wasn't in depth enough with the feelings of the characters for me, but I do know that after re-reading the book this time, this is one book series that I won't be paying a lot of money to port over to my Kindle, if I port it at all. While I enjoyed the read enough to say I like the book, I honestly would not recommend this to someone wanting a Scottish Romance. I'd be more likely to recommend Julie Garwood's The Secret than this book.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book

This was a great historical romance set in the Highlands of Scotland.

Misunderstandings, intrigue and adventure make this a wonderful story full of love between a strong H and a brave h. I enjoyed the supporting characters and will enjoy reading stories about them.

There were sexy bits which showed a deep connection between the M.C.

There were some very evil baddies and I was glad to see them dealt with.

This book was a definite 5 star read for me and I will definitely be reading more from this author.

[✨ Gramy ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

.
This is a riveting tale from medevial times. It includes clan battles, deceit, and kidnapping, but it also reflects a tenderness, deep love, and protection the highlander is not known for. The characters were both strong and independent.

It was so compelling that I read the entire book in one sitting. I was definitely not ready for it to end.

Even though it is not totally a clean read, I would recommend it.

It is able to stand on its own.

[Jennifer jennings · Rating 1 out of 5]

A murderer not a hero

Spoilers

I am sorry but he killed an innocent lad and its no big deal. That is murder, wasn't even an accident. He just killed the wrong person. But then she is making out with him a couple of hours later.

Sorry a hero doesn't kill innocent teenagers

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a very good highlander book There's a lot that doesn't seem believable to me with the heroine and hero.

[Reading Fanatic · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good Story with Issues **2 1/2 Stars**

From a technical aspect--writing, editing, presentation, etc.--this book is excellent. I would expect nothing less from a seasoned author such as Ms. Langan. Although I had issues with the story itself, I really enjoyed Ms. Langan's writing style. She clearly has a superior talent. The story should have been dynamic. It certainly had all the elements to be required; it's romantic, with a lot of intrigue in the form of deceit, betrayal, murder plots, and other nefarious deeds. The romance between Meredith and Brice is sweet, and endearing.

Meredith MacAlpin is a seventeen year old woman, whose father has just died. She's been raised and trained to be the leader of her clan. When the story begins Meredith and the rest of her clan are attending her father's funeral. Convinced by a neighboring laird that there is danger from her father's murderer our "strong" leader gives in to pressure and agrees to marry his younger brother to form an alliance between the two clans. Needless to say, his true motive for the marriage is simply to bring the MacAlpin clan under the control of his family. During the wedding ceremony, the hero shows up, causes chaos and takes off with Meredith. From there the story quickly progresses.

What killed the book for me was the heroine. Meredith is supposed to be a strong woman, trained to lead her people as their Laird. Consequently, I had high expectations, but unfortunately, she never delivers. True she is smart, determined, brave, caring, and considerate. But, honestly, she was no more so than any other female protagonist that I've ever encountered. Moreover, we are led to believe that Meredith has been trained in the art of swordplay and other forms of fighting techniques...in her own words "at my father's knee." Unfortunately, Meredith never really gets the opportunity to showcase her superior fighting and leadership skills. There is only one fighting scene where she gets to show off her skills with a sword. It was such a waste. Furthermore, in every face-off between herself and Brice, she comes off looking like a puny weakling. Ugh! Brice is always able to disarm Meredith as easily as he would a child. I didn't expect her to be Wonder Woman, but I expected more from a woman who was trained to fight. Instead she was just like any other physically weak female of that time period. I mean she could have at least made it a teeny bit difficult for Brice!

I also hated the scenes with Queen Mary, who comes across as an overindulged, self-absorbed child. That whole aspect of the story was plain stupid in my view. I was thoroughly disgusted with the fact that when Queen Mary discovers Meredith is being held captive by Brice, she thinks it's exciting and romantic, and sees it as an opportunity to be entertained. Rather than offering to assist Meredith escape her captivity. It was just dumb. I could have done without that entire part of the story; IMHO it added nothing to the book.

The final straw for me was the manner by which the HEA was brought about. In order for Brice and Meredith to be together, she renounces her position as Laird to the MacAlpin clan and goes to the Highlands to be with Brice. In other words, she abandons her clan, putting her needs and desires ahead of their welfare. Is this the behavior or a true leader? Such self-serving behavior was totally out of character for the Meredith who is portrayed throughout the story, as a person of honor who has a keen sense of loyalty and duty to her clan. In the end, Meredith's sixteen year old sister, Brenna (who is the heroine in book two) is left to be Laird, even though we are told that she does not have Meredith's leadership qualities nor has she been trained for the position, unlike her sister. So I was left thinking well, Meredith sucked as a laird so now the poor MscAlpins are really screwed. LOL FYI this book is fairly "clean" despite the love scenes, which are not graphically described and do not include the use of any crude language. Happy reading!

[MasterSal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Part of my Kindle clean-up, this was mostly an average text with too many plot tangents to be satisfying.

The writing is quite overblown and the characters are paragons which doesn’t leave much to be excited about. The book opens on a funeral where three beautiful sisters are introduced with lines like:

“Her thick dark hair, the colour of mahogany... brushed into silken waves ... green eyes ... misted with tears…

The younger sister has “hair the colour of a raven’s wing...”

My eyes spent a lot of time rolling in my head as there is such overblown descriptions throughout.

I felt that the representation of the heroine was quite inconsistent - at points she is the leader and not helpless but also shown to be soft and fragile and weak ... an “innocent” when the plot demands it and feisty and sword wielding in other parts. The hero can beat 5-10 men without issue but the thought of the heroine peril “distracts” him so the extent that he loses and almost dies from a fight. I am not sure what one is supposed to do with characters such as these.

Near the end the plot really goes off the rails with the heroine masquerading as Queen Mary (don’t ask) and unnecessary mentions of historical characters and plot which didn’t add anything to the romance.

I did get through this quickly and perhaps the blandness of the characters is a plus in that I was not irked at the end. I don’t think this is particularly good but it’s not awful either - I didn’t get a headache so that is good I guess. Not recommended unless you already have it on your Kindle, like me.

[Michele Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Destiny of Hearts

Of the hundreds of romances I've read, many depend on the cliche of poor communication or immature ramblings of figuring out first love grinding on through too many repetitions to make the story flow. Langan creates worlds and characters who move with maturity and realism that invite the reader to stay awhile and follow the intrigue of a good romance tied up in historical events and settings. She develops strong characters with powerful storylines and descriptions that draw readers emotions to mix with those of her cgaeacters. Especially well done is the audience of the villain, Gareth with Meredith posing as Queen Mary. The reasoning and wit of the author are clearly displayed in all decisions asked of her character and it was a delight to reach the happy ending made possible with that same intelligence and reasafter.

All the way through I felt as if I were there. That is what fine storytellers do with the world's they create. By opening a door for us to enter into the stories ourselves, they open parts of us that were hidden from ourselves so we can enjoy the world of make believe as much as when we were children. I recommend this book for all who want a good story and a sigh-worthy ever zfter.

[Jenika Ioffreda · Rating 1 out of 5]

I stopped reading after I had enough of characters behaving in a not-credible way or like 3-years-old children. The heroine is kidnapped by a man who killed her husband-to-be right in front of her and instead of being scared/angry/repulsed/shocked/whatever she thinks about how big and handsome he is. And accept gladly his kiss within one day of kidnapping. Seriously?
Also when the heroine says to the queen of Scotland that she had been kidnapped and kept against her will in the manor she gets in reply from the Queen this was "romantic". Excuse me? Being kidnapped by a crazed murderer is romantic? What next? Outright rape will be considered charming?
But the best (note the sarcasm) was when said queen decides to change clothes with the heroine to make a joke.
After that it was really too much and I stopped reading altogether. The writing was good so I may try more books by this author hoping in a story and characters who actually make sense.

[Vana · Rating 3 out of 5]

A typical highlander plot. I enjoyed the story but there was one or two problems that I could not get my head around. Distance related to time travelled was one. It is a long way from the lowlands to the highlands of Scotland (and it must be the border lowlands, as she mentions the Cheviots) which at the beginning of the book takes just a day and a night. Back then that was quite a feat. I found Meridith's logic at times rather lacking. She is intent on stabbing Brice to escape, when he was asleep. Why did she not just walk out of the door. She conveniently forgets about the danger posed by Mackay, and she returns back home alone instead of seeking Brice's assistance. I liked her feisty spirit at times but she did some daft things.
The author describes Mary Queen of Scots as small in stature and delicate and appearance. Mary Queen of Scots was 5'11''!
if you can overlook these things the story was entertaining enough

[Margo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Meredith's beloved father is viciously killed by the Beast of the Highlands, Brice Campbell. She becomes head of the McAlpin clan. Because she is a woman and her clan seeks support they encourage her to marry the brother of a neigboring clan leader. However her McKenzie groom is killed at the altar on her wedding day and she is kidnapped by Campbell. Of course she falls in love with him. McKenzie's brother attacks the Campbell stronghold and Brice is left for dead. Meredith nurses him back to life. But her clan and her sisters call to her and she sets off across Scotland, on her own, to return home. She is a courageous woman and I love a strong female character but the story seemed to drag a bit to me and she found more trouble than one person deserved. All in all not bad. I give it 3.5 stars.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though she really should not have fallen for him in the first place. Yes he was actually a kind caring leader, but she had no proof of that until later. However, I loved the pace, the threaded stories and the care that these two had for each other. The baddies were suitably villainous, although I did feel that Mackay went from a little bit bad tempered to all out villain a bit abruptly. Why didn’t Campbell realise his deception earlier? He was one of his best friends.
I hope to read others in the series, particularly James McDonald’s book. (Btw, what is a McDonald doing living with a Campbell? Unheard of!)

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now That Is a Love Story

This is my first Ruth Ryan Langan book and I am glad I cam upon it while browsing. It has a good balance of the elements of a romance.

The hero is a feared highlander- strong, proud warrior. The heroine is a serene yet strong woman. I love the build up to their love story. For once the hero is not the womanizing brooding hero. He is a fierce honorable warrior with a gentle heart. The heroine is not the stubborn outspoken woman but courageous and kind and wise. The heat level is mild. This is a good read for escaping into the world of highland romance. I wish there was an epilogue.

[Andrea Berner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true romantic adventure

We all expect a historical book to have a healthy dose of romance between a hunky, drop dead warrior and a feisty, beautiful heroine with adventure and twists in it. Without any of these ingredients the book is not as expected and leaves us wanting.
Dont panic, however, this one has the lot. My first time reading a book by Ruth Ryan Langan and I would happily read her work again.
Enjoy the story of Brice and Meredith. It's very enjoyable.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend

This wonderful story about the highlands has everything needed to keep the interest of the reader. It has action,battles , a wonderful hero and a feminine but strong heroine. The author has put a lot of thought into her background, characters and how the plot unfolds. I think you will really enjoy this book.

[PAMpublish · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Scottish historical romance maintained my attention from beginning-to-end. Well-written and historically correct, it depicted a realistic scenario of the era. Much action and gory, some sensual romantic scenes all were included to keep the theme moving throughout. Recommended for those who enjoy this genre and era.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Woman Chief

Meredith became the Chief of her clan when her father was killed. The Gareth the leader of Mackenzie clan blamed Brice Campbell aka The Highland barbarian for all the deaths near the border with England. He wanted all of the lowlands for himself and nobody was gonna be in his way. So read and enjoy as much as I have.

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think...

That I want to get more of this series to continue to learn about these characters. I liked the story except for the killing it seemed without mercy. I realize that was how it was but I am still a softie.

[shirlene brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding the truth

The character in this story are very strong character. Brice and Meredith they were made for each other both Lord's of their clans. They go through hard times, Brice kidnapped her and fill in love. I give this story a five star rating.

[Mary Seaman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved! This was adorable. Who wouldn't be swept up by Brice. Even when he is supposed to be 'temperamental' and 'violent' i'm still swooning. You can judge me, I don't care at all. I definitely recommend for a cute, quick read.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story even with a couple of editing errors that made me laugh. The funniest one was the touching moment that said something to the effect of wanting it to be everything and more, but instead it said mare. Apparently a female horse was wanted. Ha!

[Pipp · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read

I've recently acquired Highland Heaven in solid book copy and loved it! Then I downloaded this one free from Amazon and of course the same author was the creator! Both thrilling adventures to be read:)

[Gina Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced highland adventure....

This is my kind of storyline fast paced and full of sass and vinegar! A kidnapping at a wedding, and a stubborn Scottish lass make for a great read, had me laughing and had to get the tissues too! Can't wait to read the next in the series.