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Return of the Highlanders #1
Secrets of a Highlander's Heart
Will the truth of the past destroy the hope of their future?
How far will he go for vengeance?
Brus Stone remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of five summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. Having been told his mother abandoned him, he’s about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. So when he’s tasked with accompanying a group of highlanders through the treacherous lands he helps patrol and he encounters a bonny lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he’s ever met, he’s surprised by his pull to the lass and more than wary because of it. He steels himself against lowering his guard, but her open nature bemuses him, and her caring heart entices him. Each time he touches her he finds himself further drawn to the warmth she exudes and the possibility that believing in her will not result in betrayal. But a shocking revelation about his past obliterates everything he holds true and leaves him with a choice—give unwavering faith to the daughter of the enemy he didn’t know he had or raise his guard once more and secure the ultimate revenge.
How much will she lose for love?
Grace MacDonald is starting to wonder whether she’ll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. To complicate matters, her father wishes her to wed her childhood friend and fortify an important alliance between their clans. Though she wants to please her beloved father, her friend does not stir her heart or her desire, so she’s reluctant to accept his offer of marriage. When the party she’s travelling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she’s immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. Not only does he display a gentle caring side, but he also listens to what she says and seems to value her opinions. His every look, touch, and kiss ignite her in the way she’s been waiting for all her life. But Brus will not completely let her in. He has erected a barrier between them, and the harder she tries to breach it, the more withdrawn he becomes. She’s determined to prove to him that he can count on her, so they can grasp the glorious love she’s sure awaits them. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with the father she’s always trusted or whether it belongs with the man she’s certain is her destiny.
How far will he go for vengeance?
Brus Stone remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of five summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. Having been told his mother abandoned him, he’s about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. So when he’s tasked with accompanying a group of highlanders through the treacherous lands he helps patrol and he encounters a bonny lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he’s ever met, he’s surprised by his pull to the lass and more than wary because of it. He steels himself against lowering his guard, but her open nature bemuses him, and her caring heart entices him. Each time he touches her he finds himself further drawn to the warmth she exudes and the possibility that believing in her will not result in betrayal. But a shocking revelation about his past obliterates everything he holds true and leaves him with a choice—give unwavering faith to the daughter of the enemy he didn’t know he had or raise his guard once more and secure the ultimate revenge.
How much will she lose for love?
Grace MacDonald is starting to wonder whether she’ll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. To complicate matters, her father wishes her to wed her childhood friend and fortify an important alliance between their clans. Though she wants to please her beloved father, her friend does not stir her heart or her desire, so she’s reluctant to accept his offer of marriage. When the party she’s travelling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she’s immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. Not only does he display a gentle caring side, but he also listens to what she says and seems to value her opinions. His every look, touch, and kiss ignite her in the way she’s been waiting for all her life. But Brus will not completely let her in. He has erected a barrier between them, and the harder she tries to breach it, the more withdrawn he becomes. She’s determined to prove to him that he can count on her, so they can grasp the glorious love she’s sure awaits them. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with the father she’s always trusted or whether it belongs with the man she’s certain is her destiny.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2024
637 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Julie Johnstone
98 books764 followersJulie Johnstone is a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author. Scottish historical romance and Regency historical romance featuring highlanders and aristocrats are her love, and she enjoys creating both with a hefty dose of twists, plenty of heartstring tugs, and a guaranteed happily ever after.
Her books have been dubbed "fabulously entertaining and engaging," making readers cry, laugh, and swoon. Johnstone lives in Alabama with her very own lowlander husband, her two children - the heir and the spare, her snobby cat, and her perpetually happy dog.
In her spare time she enjoys way too much coffee balanced by super hot yoga, reading, and traveling.
Sign up for her newsletter here: http://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/newsl...
Her books have been dubbed "fabulously entertaining and engaging," making readers cry, laugh, and swoon. Johnstone lives in Alabama with her very own lowlander husband, her two children - the heir and the spare, her snobby cat, and her perpetually happy dog.
In her spare time she enjoys way too much coffee balanced by super hot yoga, reading, and traveling.
Sign up for her newsletter here: http://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/newsl...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
January 21, 2025
2 🤔🤔⭐️s
I struggled to finish it. 🦸🏻♀️
The plot had dragging moments and switching between past and present was tedious.
I struggled to finish it. 🦸🏻♀️
The plot had dragging moments and switching between past and present was tedious.
April 21, 2024
4.5 Stars
Brus Stone remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of seven summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. Having been told his mother abandoned him, he’s about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. So when he’s tasked with accompanying a group of highlanders through the treacherous lands he encounters a lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he’s ever met. Grace MacDonald is starting to wonder whether she’ll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. To complicate matters, her father wishes her to wed her childhood friend Errol and fortify an important alliance between their clans. When the party she’s travelling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she’s immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. But Brus will not completely let her in. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with the father she’s always trusted or whether it belongs with the man she’s certain is her destiny.
The start of a new series & another gripping romance. It covers two years fifteen years apart, at first I wondered how the years were linked but the more I read the more it became apparent. Strong characters & a well paced story had me reading this wonderful story in two sittings. I loved Brus & Grace their chemistry sizzled but there were so many circumstances which could part them. He’s toe curlingly gorgeous a fierce warrior but also gentle & caring, she’s a laird’s daughter & no shrinking violet, how she wanted her attacker dealt with showed that! I loved their journey to a HEA but was left with two questions what happened to Graham & Maggie – the author is usually SO good at tying up loose ends so I sincerely hope their stories are to follow
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Brus Stone remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of seven summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. Having been told his mother abandoned him, he’s about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. So when he’s tasked with accompanying a group of highlanders through the treacherous lands he encounters a lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he’s ever met. Grace MacDonald is starting to wonder whether she’ll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. To complicate matters, her father wishes her to wed her childhood friend Errol and fortify an important alliance between their clans. When the party she’s travelling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she’s immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. But Brus will not completely let her in. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with the father she’s always trusted or whether it belongs with the man she’s certain is her destiny.
The start of a new series & another gripping romance. It covers two years fifteen years apart, at first I wondered how the years were linked but the more I read the more it became apparent. Strong characters & a well paced story had me reading this wonderful story in two sittings. I loved Brus & Grace their chemistry sizzled but there were so many circumstances which could part them. He’s toe curlingly gorgeous a fierce warrior but also gentle & caring, she’s a laird’s daughter & no shrinking violet, how she wanted her attacker dealt with showed that! I loved their journey to a HEA but was left with two questions what happened to Graham & Maggie – the author is usually SO good at tying up loose ends so I sincerely hope their stories are to follow
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 29, 2024
This is my first book by this author and I'll be reading more!
This was such a wonderful story, written beautifully and throroughly enjoyable. I haven't read a historical romance in a while and this one really hit the spot.
This was such a wonderful story, written beautifully and throroughly enjoyable. I haven't read a historical romance in a while and this one really hit the spot.
April 29, 2024
I this author but these last 3 series have just not been her usual. Hey are predictable and low emotion. This is slightly higher than 3 but not quite four. And little to no steam. The only real steam was literally the last paragraph. Plot 5 (1-10) steaminess 4 (1-10).
April 28, 2024
#bookreview #scotland #newrelease #scottishhistorical
Book: Secrets of A Highlander's Heart
Author: Julie Johnstone
Return of the Highlanders, Book #1
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire
Book Length: 238 pages
Overall Rating: 5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5 Saltire Flags
Scotland
The Past -1460
The Present - 1475
It starts with Laird Sir Gilbert Stewart, Lord of Lorn, his wife Isabella and their three young children Ross. Graeme and Mags. I loved the interaction with the children who were ages five, three and two. Also the relationship with the loving parents. I did enjoy going through two timelines which were set in 1460 at the Stewart clan castle Dunstaffnage but it also shows that a best friend is about to betray him for money and lands. A definite nail biter without giving much away.
It also goes to present time in 1475 where Grace MacDonald is traveling with the man her father who was Lord of the Isle who wants her to marry childhood friend Errol MacLaren for a political alliance. Even though her father had promised his wife on her deathbed he would allow their two daughters to make love matches. Grace just does not feel the spark plus Errol doesn’t seem to respect her opinion and treats her more like possession than an equal. Then she meets Brus Stone, a beautiful man that saves her life. Not only that but he seems to respect her and value her opinion. Except he feels she is above his station . Brus is part of the Northern Watch, a group of warriors to put a halt to fighting, stealing and ravaging to protect Scotland but they also must sign an oath to never marry and have children and stay with the Northern Warriors forever unless they get a signed release from the King of Scotland.
When Brus and Grace meet they are like a moth to a flame but he has a lot of trust issues due to his past. He seems to send her mixed signals, as he was told his mother had abandoned him. He also feels she is a Laird's daughter and he believes he was illegitimate and not good enough for her. Except Grace notices Brus has very courtly manors in the way he carries himself and she questions where he learned it from. Then the ultimate betrayal happens and it seems Brus and Grace are on opposite sides. It is obvious they both care deeply for each other but the past might come back to haunt them. Do they even have a future or will Grace hate Brus for the choices he must make? On top of that Grace must make a difficult decision that will definitely hurt one of the men in her life.
This extraordinary book is my most favorite book I ever read by Julie Johnstone that definitely checked all the boxes for me. I thought the swoon worthy hero and feisty heroine were absolutely perfect for each other! It was an emotional read that will definitely pull on the heart strings and I can't recommend it enough. What a great start to this phenomenal new series. I can't wait for the next book and it is definitely a story readers don’t want to miss!
Disclaimer: I received a free advance review copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
June 26, 2024
A lot of the time, my "reviews" are less of a review per se and more a collection of notes that I write for myself so that I can remember what happens in each story, along with what I liked, disliked, had questions about, favorite parts, etc. I have a TBI and otherwise my memory will not serve me. Others may not find them helpful, just as a disclaimer.
Tim Campbell is a God, and no I will not be accepting questions about it at this time.
Julie Johnstone has once again taken me on an adventure.
I enjoyed the memories from the past being interspersed with the present, it did a great job of setting the scene and the plot twist.
Poor Tantor! I hate when the horse dies.
Don't mind me, cheering on Connell for paralyzing the pedophile rapist Uncle Niall. I only wish we had been able to see him cut down by the McLean warriors. I was prepared to champion the McLean warriors, since their cause was revenge for the rape of his sister that lead to her suicide, until they were going to let Grace and Aria get the same treatment. The last chapter mentions Aria having nightmares because of her time with the McLean warriors, so I'm wondering if she was ravaged and, if so, will we get her and Connell's story in the next book? Maybe like a novella before we get Graham and Mags stories?
"What did you tell them?" ~Ross
"I told them to suck my very large bollocks." ~Connell
"Excellent." ~Ross
I know Erol was a good man (despite his backwards thinking with women and their "silliness"), and I know he loved Grace- I think that's why he was willing to marry her against her wishes, out of desperation for her. I thought I would be sadder about him meeting his end, maybe because he wasn't completely fleshed out as a character, which I found to be a good choice.
I like that Julie manages to tie a lot of strings back into the story- the betrothal, the Westminster Treaty, etc, while still leaving cliffhangers for the remaining books (Such as Aria and Connell, Graham and Mags, and the fate of the MacDonald stronghold). I would also have liked more details about Ross's Uncle, the roll he played in the slaughter of the Stewarts (including his own sister), etc.
My final note for Ross and Grace: Ya'll talk about his dreams of Ross and his brother as children while ya'll are getting ready to have sex for the first time? Ewwwww.
I am so glad Julie is starting another series! I can't wait to read the rest of it!
Tim Campbell is a God, and no I will not be accepting questions about it at this time.
Julie Johnstone has once again taken me on an adventure.
I enjoyed the memories from the past being interspersed with the present, it did a great job of setting the scene and the plot twist.
Poor Tantor! I hate when the horse dies.
Don't mind me, cheering on Connell for paralyzing the pedophile rapist Uncle Niall. I only wish we had been able to see him cut down by the McLean warriors. I was prepared to champion the McLean warriors, since their cause was revenge for the rape of his sister that lead to her suicide, until they were going to let Grace and Aria get the same treatment. The last chapter mentions Aria having nightmares because of her time with the McLean warriors, so I'm wondering if she was ravaged and, if so, will we get her and Connell's story in the next book? Maybe like a novella before we get Graham and Mags stories?
"What did you tell them?" ~Ross
"I told them to suck my very large bollocks." ~Connell
"Excellent." ~Ross
I know Erol was a good man (despite his backwards thinking with women and their "silliness"), and I know he loved Grace- I think that's why he was willing to marry her against her wishes, out of desperation for her. I thought I would be sadder about him meeting his end, maybe because he wasn't completely fleshed out as a character, which I found to be a good choice.
I like that Julie manages to tie a lot of strings back into the story- the betrothal, the Westminster Treaty, etc, while still leaving cliffhangers for the remaining books (Such as Aria and Connell, Graham and Mags, and the fate of the MacDonald stronghold). I would also have liked more details about Ross's Uncle, the roll he played in the slaughter of the Stewarts (including his own sister), etc.
My final note for Ross and Grace: Ya'll talk about his dreams of Ross and his brother as children while ya'll are getting ready to have sex for the first time? Ewwwww.
I am so glad Julie is starting another series! I can't wait to read the rest of it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2024
This book captivated me from the beginning and kept me enthralled to the end. Brus and Grace are so good together and the secondary characters added flair to the story and kept me turning the pages.
Brus is not yet a sworn member of a group of men who are loyal to the king and protectors. They were asked to escort Grace, her sister, and Laird Errol and their entourage across an area of land that is thick with marauders and miscreants. It's dangerous and when they're late to meet with their party, Errol makes the decision to go on without them, thinking they were stood up. He's got a party of men with him, he's a man, there are just two women with them, what could go wrong?
Grace enters this story with a bang and didn't slow down. She was on a mission to see her father, whom wasn't expecting to see her or her sister, and to deliver a message to him from the king. She's forthright, candid, courageous, and surprisingly open minded. I usually dislike heroines like her, but I didn't find her to be abrasive. They're usually overbearing know-it-alls and think they're smarter and better than a mere man. That wasn't the case here. She was true to herself, her sister, and even to Brus and respected those around her.
This was an exciting book with plenty of action, some angst, and a part that actually made me call it out verbally and raise my fist in the air, "PLOT TWIST!" I won't go on about that because I don't want to put any spoilers in my review, but it was a great moment.
I do wish there had been more descriptions of the characters. I never did get a good look at Brus and Grace was sort of sketchy. Character descriptions do help me connect with the characters and make the story much more enjoyable, but this is still a five star read.
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.
Brus is not yet a sworn member of a group of men who are loyal to the king and protectors. They were asked to escort Grace, her sister, and Laird Errol and their entourage across an area of land that is thick with marauders and miscreants. It's dangerous and when they're late to meet with their party, Errol makes the decision to go on without them, thinking they were stood up. He's got a party of men with him, he's a man, there are just two women with them, what could go wrong?
Grace enters this story with a bang and didn't slow down. She was on a mission to see her father, whom wasn't expecting to see her or her sister, and to deliver a message to him from the king. She's forthright, candid, courageous, and surprisingly open minded. I usually dislike heroines like her, but I didn't find her to be abrasive. They're usually overbearing know-it-alls and think they're smarter and better than a mere man. That wasn't the case here. She was true to herself, her sister, and even to Brus and respected those around her.
This was an exciting book with plenty of action, some angst, and a part that actually made me call it out verbally and raise my fist in the air, "PLOT TWIST!" I won't go on about that because I don't want to put any spoilers in my review, but it was a great moment.
I do wish there had been more descriptions of the characters. I never did get a good look at Brus and Grace was sort of sketchy. Character descriptions do help me connect with the characters and make the story much more enjoyable, but this is still a five star read.
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily left a review.
July 21, 2024
With Julie Johnstone, you can always rely that a good story waits for you. And this one did not disappoint.
Brus has a huge grudge where women are concerned! Well, I suppose you can’t really blame him.(His mother abandoned him as a baby.) So trust with women doesn’t come easily.
And when he’s given the job of guarding a group of highlanders as they pass through this patrol area…..
Grace isn’t a meek and mild young lady! She knows her own mind! But that doesn’t mean a thing in this era! And to top it off, her father wants her to marry her friend! What Grace wants is an equal, she’s wanting passion and fire, and she doesn’t see her friend in that way!
There is an attraction between Brus and Grace, but he’s not going to fall, he’s adamant that it’s a job, and once she’s out of his sight, he won’t think about her again…..
Grace is soooooo frustrated with Brus! She knows they would be good together, he just won’t let her in!
And the secret that is brewing between them? (I guessed it practically straight away 😉) it’s going to test both of them!
Can Brus really overcome his hate? Will Grace be the one to help him? Or will it all end on heartbreak?
Good plot, great main characters, and really great secondary characters. Which I’m hoping will get books 😉 the descriptions of the lands had me clearly seeing them, the castle in all its majestic glory. This could have been a series/film. And I would have watched it.
Think Poldark or Outlander (without the time travel)
Another really good historical read. 👍🏻
🦋
Brus has a huge grudge where women are concerned! Well, I suppose you can’t really blame him.(His mother abandoned him as a baby.) So trust with women doesn’t come easily.
And when he’s given the job of guarding a group of highlanders as they pass through this patrol area…..
Grace isn’t a meek and mild young lady! She knows her own mind! But that doesn’t mean a thing in this era! And to top it off, her father wants her to marry her friend! What Grace wants is an equal, she’s wanting passion and fire, and she doesn’t see her friend in that way!
There is an attraction between Brus and Grace, but he’s not going to fall, he’s adamant that it’s a job, and once she’s out of his sight, he won’t think about her again…..
Grace is soooooo frustrated with Brus! She knows they would be good together, he just won’t let her in!
And the secret that is brewing between them? (I guessed it practically straight away 😉) it’s going to test both of them!
Can Brus really overcome his hate? Will Grace be the one to help him? Or will it all end on heartbreak?
Good plot, great main characters, and really great secondary characters. Which I’m hoping will get books 😉 the descriptions of the lands had me clearly seeing them, the castle in all its majestic glory. This could have been a series/film. And I would have watched it.
Think Poldark or Outlander (without the time travel)
Another really good historical read. 👍🏻
🦋
April 25, 2024
Dynamic Breath-Taking Love Story.
This extremely well written love story captured my heart from the beginning and never stopped enchanting or surprising me throughout the entire story with the most shocking taking my breath away surprise that had me gasping in shock that I never saw coming. I had to stop and laugh out loud at the twist even though there are many more twists and surprises along the way.
The story is about trusting, betrayals, vows, and finding the right person to share your life with.
I loved both of the characters. Brus who had a traumatic upbringing which left him with some issues to conquer and Grace was a feisty independent dynamo who was searching for the truth. Her struggles were great along with the supporting characters that also had my heart.
The excitement and feelings I experienced while reading kept my eyes glued to each page. and "OH, My Goodness" what a deserving and fantastic ending I will never forget. It was perfect and the epilogue made it even better.
I loved the story and wish I could give it a higher than 5 rating, but I did not care for the format the author chose which did not change my rating for the review of the story itself.
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
✔Stories format went from the past then to the present for each chapter. I found that hard to follow or enjoy so I read the entire past then the present and the story was wonderful. It was like having two books in one.
This extremely well written love story captured my heart from the beginning and never stopped enchanting or surprising me throughout the entire story with the most shocking taking my breath away surprise that had me gasping in shock that I never saw coming. I had to stop and laugh out loud at the twist even though there are many more twists and surprises along the way.
The story is about trusting, betrayals, vows, and finding the right person to share your life with.
I loved both of the characters. Brus who had a traumatic upbringing which left him with some issues to conquer and Grace was a feisty independent dynamo who was searching for the truth. Her struggles were great along with the supporting characters that also had my heart.
The excitement and feelings I experienced while reading kept my eyes glued to each page. and "OH, My Goodness" what a deserving and fantastic ending I will never forget. It was perfect and the epilogue made it even better.
I loved the story and wish I could give it a higher than 5 rating, but I did not care for the format the author chose which did not change my rating for the review of the story itself.
👀I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
✔Stories format went from the past then to the present for each chapter. I found that hard to follow or enjoy so I read the entire past then the present and the story was wonderful. It was like having two books in one.
April 25, 2024
Let me first say, I could not take my eyes off the pages of this book the whole way through. Intrigue and treachery at the beginning with Sir Gilbert Stewart betrayed by his friend of many years and the escape of his children which was such a riveting opener. Fast forward 15 years. Enter Brus, fighter extraordinaire for the Northern Watch, who saves Grace MacDonalda brutal fate. Along their incredible journey to getting Grace and her sister to her father, much happens, one of which is their immediate attraction to each other, as well as Brus learns much about himself, which changes everything for him and Grace learns the kind of man her father is. This is a wonderful story, written by a very talented author. This book moves you along at a good pace, keeping you enthralled in the story and then wham, the excitement of the last couple of chapters leading to the end will envelop you, get your heart racing and the characters you have gone on this journey with will embrace you in a hard to forget finale that will have you smiling and cheering for them. Brus is a wonderful hero, great fighter and so smart; and Grace is just the kind of strong, intelligent and fearless heroine I love to read about. They were meant to be. I highly recommend this to everyone and, once again, this may well be my favorite Julie Johnstone book, but I think they all are my favorite!
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest and true review of this book.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest and true review of this book.
April 26, 2024
Secrets of A Highlander's Heart
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brus Stone doesn't really know who he is. He remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at five years of age. He was brought to the Northern Watch and raised there. He can't seem to trust a woman until he meets Grace MacDonald. Grace is as proud and brave as any warrior he's ever met, and he's surprised at the pull he feels by this beautiful woman.
Then he hears a shocking revelation that turns his world upside down and obliterates everything he has ever held true. Now it seems he must trust his biggest enemies daughter with his heart and pray that he has put his trust in the right woman.
Julie Johnsone is one of my favorite authors. This talented author writes about Highlanders and their lives, but everything is so vivid it feels like you are there on the sidelines witnessing it all in person. Grace is amazing. She is so sweet yet feisty with back of steel and Brus is not really Brus, but either way he's one hot Highlander with honest trust issues. Together these two characters learn to navigate the new lease on life they have been given and they do it well. This is one book you won't want to miss. Ms. Johnstone is amazes me that somehow your books just keep getting better and better.
Julie Johnstone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Brus Stone doesn't really know who he is. He remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at five years of age. He was brought to the Northern Watch and raised there. He can't seem to trust a woman until he meets Grace MacDonald. Grace is as proud and brave as any warrior he's ever met, and he's surprised at the pull he feels by this beautiful woman.
Then he hears a shocking revelation that turns his world upside down and obliterates everything he has ever held true. Now it seems he must trust his biggest enemies daughter with his heart and pray that he has put his trust in the right woman.
Julie Johnsone is one of my favorite authors. This talented author writes about Highlanders and their lives, but everything is so vivid it feels like you are there on the sidelines witnessing it all in person. Grace is amazing. She is so sweet yet feisty with back of steel and Brus is not really Brus, but either way he's one hot Highlander with honest trust issues. Together these two characters learn to navigate the new lease on life they have been given and they do it well. This is one book you won't want to miss. Ms. Johnstone is amazes me that somehow your books just keep getting better and better.
April 27, 2024
This is the first book in Julie Johnstone’s highly anticipated new Scottish Medieval series Return of the Highlanders. This story is full of family drama, intrigue and of course wild Scottish men fighting. Brus Stone, as we first know him has been sent with Conall Douglas, as members of the Northern Watch to offer protection and safety to a group as they journey through land that is prone to attack from the Wolf Warriors. Among the group is Grace MacDonald, who we quickly learn is the daughter of the man who is responsible for heartache and crimes against both men. Many secrets are revealed over the course of the story that our couple have to deal with. As family bonds are put to the test Brus and Grace become close and fall in love. As expected the path to a happy ever after is quite bumpy. This book has many twist and turns, with lots of action throughout. It is a very enjoyable story and I am excited to see what happens in future books in the series. As always Julie delivers not only a great read, there are also characters that are believable and you can get behind, I highly recommend this book.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my honest opinions and review.
April 24, 2024
A romance like no other. He feels she is out of his reach. She wants to marry for love, not for her father's convenience of an alliance or land.
Grace is betrothed but loves him only as a friend, not a husband. Her mother promised them they could marry of their choosing but her father has other ideas now that she's gone. It's very difficult to stand up for what you want during this day and age and Grace strives to find the truth of things before she can move forward. Can the love for a father blind you to the truth?
Brus could not fight the attraction he had for Grace but he must. His inability to trust others inhibits him from keeping friendships and relationships. Would he ever meet someone willing to have the patience to earn his trust and break down those walls? Not to mention what he has to deal with with his life story unfolding before him.
The first third of this book bounces from the past to the present (still medieval times) and you learn in pieces the lives of those affected by a castle takeover in the past. I would rate this book 4.5 stars but rounded up. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post my thoughts.
Grace is betrothed but loves him only as a friend, not a husband. Her mother promised them they could marry of their choosing but her father has other ideas now that she's gone. It's very difficult to stand up for what you want during this day and age and Grace strives to find the truth of things before she can move forward. Can the love for a father blind you to the truth?
Brus could not fight the attraction he had for Grace but he must. His inability to trust others inhibits him from keeping friendships and relationships. Would he ever meet someone willing to have the patience to earn his trust and break down those walls? Not to mention what he has to deal with with his life story unfolding before him.
The first third of this book bounces from the past to the present (still medieval times) and you learn in pieces the lives of those affected by a castle takeover in the past. I would rate this book 4.5 stars but rounded up. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post my thoughts.
April 26, 2024
Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart is an exciting beginning to a new series. The first few chapters alternate between the present and fifteen years in the past. It seemed odd until you hit the “aha” moment, and things fall into place. The characters are fantastic. Brus and Grace are strong, intelligent, and brave. The chemistry between them sizzles. The villains in the story, led by Grace’s father and uncle, are deceitful, power hungry, and dangerous. This story and the series are set in a politically dangerous time in the history of Scotland. The complex plot is full of action, secrets, intrigue, betrayal, some answers, and a touching romance. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the rest of the series. Timothy Campbell’s narration was, as always, excellent.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
April 26, 2024
I truly enjoyed the way Julie Johnstone weaves this story into the tragic past of Brus Stone. He remembers nothing of his life before he was rescued at the age of five summers and brought to live as part of the Northern Watch. He has a hard time trusting woman and finding his pace in life outside of the Watch. He rescues Lady Grace MacDonald from harm after her sister and Lord Errol are attacked. He finds himself intrigued and attracted to this vivacious young woman who speaks her mind, but can he trust her with his secrets and his heart? He knows they're on opposite sides of this war, her father is a devious man, possible a traitor and a liar. A captivating story with a few twists and turns as secrets, lies and traitors are uncovered. I have voluntarily read and reviewed this amazing story.
April 29, 2024
Trusting.
I loved this book. Ross, age 7 and his siblings were whisked from their home by trusted servants when their castle was attacked by Laird MacDonald, a traitor to the Scottish king. Ross’ parents were killed in the attack. He lost his whole family that day along with his memories. He was raised by a man who basically adopted him. For 15 years he did not know who he really was. Grace is the eldest daughter of Laird MacDonald. When she and her sister and their escorts are attacked by Wolf warriors, they are rescued by Ross. The connection between them was almost immediate. But Ross has difficulty trusting women and Grace is struggling to believe her father is not the loving man she grew up with. They both must trust in order to get to the truth.
I loved this book. Ross, age 7 and his siblings were whisked from their home by trusted servants when their castle was attacked by Laird MacDonald, a traitor to the Scottish king. Ross’ parents were killed in the attack. He lost his whole family that day along with his memories. He was raised by a man who basically adopted him. For 15 years he did not know who he really was. Grace is the eldest daughter of Laird MacDonald. When she and her sister and their escorts are attacked by Wolf warriors, they are rescued by Ross. The connection between them was almost immediate. But Ross has difficulty trusting women and Grace is struggling to believe her father is not the loving man she grew up with. They both must trust in order to get to the truth.
June 8, 2024
Brus Stone aka Ross Stewart has no real sense of belonging and the world he thought he knew is about to be torn from him!
Grace and her sister are traveling without sufficient escort and Brus and his friend Conall save their life! There is an instant chemistry between Grace and Ross and they can’t account for it!
Ross wants no part in feelings for a Lairds daughter as unattainable as the moon!
As trust slowly builds between the two can they trust not only each other but the truth when it is revealed!
But love won’t be stopped and when secrets come to light can Ross put aside the need for vengeance for a love of a lifetime? Bravo
Can’t wait to see if Ross friend Bran finds his siblings!
Grace and her sister are traveling without sufficient escort and Brus and his friend Conall save their life! There is an instant chemistry between Grace and Ross and they can’t account for it!
Ross wants no part in feelings for a Lairds daughter as unattainable as the moon!
As trust slowly builds between the two can they trust not only each other but the truth when it is revealed!
But love won’t be stopped and when secrets come to light can Ross put aside the need for vengeance for a love of a lifetime? Bravo
Can’t wait to see if Ross friend Bran finds his siblings!
July 5, 2024
This is a nice start to a new series, and this one focuses on Ross and Grace, and the many secrets that have been kept from both of them. When Grace and her sister want to get to her father, she sways her friend from a clan her father wants an alliance with to take her, but they are attacked on the journey and Errol is injured. Ross and Conal from the Northern Watch save them, and are tasked with taking the women to their father safely. But there are a lot of secrets, and some could destroy the love that Ross and Grace are findng in each other.
There was a good deal of action, and watching the love build throughout the book was a good touch and the book keeps a decent pace. This story will keep you reading until the last page and I’m looking forward to the series continuing.
There was a good deal of action, and watching the love build throughout the book was a good touch and the book keeps a decent pace. This story will keep you reading until the last page and I’m looking forward to the series continuing.
May 13, 2024
This was very enjoyable for me. I loved Grace's bravery to travel, her gumption when standing up for herself, and the willingness to apologize for what was her fault. Her attraction to Brus was strong and instant, and somewhat confusing for her. Making it to her father, she was surprised by her father's behavior. Brus was strong and protective. He received his own surprise which gave him more to deal with. Grace was willing to give up her family to stay with Brus. There was plenty of witty banter and action to keep the story rolling along, making it hard to put down.
I received an ARC, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received an ARC, and this is my unsolicited review.
April 29, 2024
Go back in time with a memorizing story of intrigue, treachery and family lies.
He does not remember anything before he was five years old, but has hardened his heart against women due to being told his mother abandoned him.
She wanted to make her own decision on who she married, but her father is pushing her to marry her childhood friend.
When they meet, the sparks are there if only she can convince him she is sincere and he can trust her.
A wonderful journey you will not want to miss!
He does not remember anything before he was five years old, but has hardened his heart against women due to being told his mother abandoned him.
She wanted to make her own decision on who she married, but her father is pushing her to marry her childhood friend.
When they meet, the sparks are there if only she can convince him she is sincere and he can trust her.
A wonderful journey you will not want to miss!
August 29, 2024
breathtaking beginning
The beginning is heart rendering and soon begins with a mystery of where are the children. The relationship between the MC is interesting and psychological. The heroine is dynamic , a bit impulsive and that causes people’s death and property loss but she improves. The hero is suppose to be the best warrior. The reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 was because several plot lines were not tied up leaving questions in answered. The story is moving and very interesting but needed a bit more.
The beginning is heart rendering and soon begins with a mystery of where are the children. The relationship between the MC is interesting and psychological. The heroine is dynamic , a bit impulsive and that causes people’s death and property loss but she improves. The hero is suppose to be the best warrior. The reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 was because several plot lines were not tied up leaving questions in answered. The story is moving and very interesting but needed a bit more.
April 29, 2024
Wonderful Story!
Such a fantastic read. I absolutely loved it. The characters and storyline were great. I hope there will be 2 more stories for his brother and sister. This kept me going from start to finish. Grace and Ross were very strong characters. Her father and uncle got what they deserved!!! Her sister Arya and Conall need a story too. On to my next book. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜😊😊😊😊😊
Such a fantastic read. I absolutely loved it. The characters and storyline were great. I hope there will be 2 more stories for his brother and sister. This kept me going from start to finish. Grace and Ross were very strong characters. Her father and uncle got what they deserved!!! Her sister Arya and Conall need a story too. On to my next book. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜😊😊😊😊😊
May 5, 2024
Well designed plot and charming characters
After partially reading so many mediocre Kindle Unlimited stories I was delighted to find one I enjoyed because it was an interesting plot with good characters but there were things that were simply not right such as two laird’s daughter’s traveling without their maids, never taking potty breaks while riding all day, little things that make a story more credible.
After partially reading so many mediocre Kindle Unlimited stories I was delighted to find one I enjoyed because it was an interesting plot with good characters but there were things that were simply not right such as two laird’s daughter’s traveling without their maids, never taking potty breaks while riding all day, little things that make a story more credible.
September 1, 2024
Excellent, Scottish Historical Romance
Brus is a man with a secret past, and Grace has a secret she knows nothing about. When their destinies collide, love will bloom, but can it flourish when revenge is dogging its footsteps?
This author’s books are a delight, and this story is no exception. I recommend it to those who like Scottish historical romance with secrets, treachery, and action that is sure to keep you turning the pages.
Brus is a man with a secret past, and Grace has a secret she knows nothing about. When their destinies collide, love will bloom, but can it flourish when revenge is dogging its footsteps?
This author’s books are a delight, and this story is no exception. I recommend it to those who like Scottish historical romance with secrets, treachery, and action that is sure to keep you turning the pages.
May 3, 2024
Wonderful start to a new series
Ms. Johnstone has a way of grabbing your attention on the first page of her story and doesn't relent until the last page.
Her characters are well developed and likeable and make you feel like you are there with them.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
Ms. Johnstone has a way of grabbing your attention on the first page of her story and doesn't relent until the last page.
Her characters are well developed and likeable and make you feel like you are there with them.
I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
May 5, 2024
Treachery
His father has been betrayed by her father but he's only 7 years old so he's hidden away. A blow to the head has taken his memories so he has no idea who he is or that he has a brother and sister also being hidden. His meeting with Grace years later begins a journey leading to trust, love and justice as only Julie Johnstone can write. Don't miss this one!!!
His father has been betrayed by her father but he's only 7 years old so he's hidden away. A blow to the head has taken his memories so he has no idea who he is or that he has a brother and sister also being hidden. His meeting with Grace years later begins a journey leading to trust, love and justice as only Julie Johnstone can write. Don't miss this one!!!
May 9, 2024
Breathtaking
Amidst the turmoil of Scotland in the 15th century, Julie Johnstone sets a glorious romance, fraught with the tension of enemies to lovers, hidden betrothals, and fated love. You can feel the cold of the windswept keeps and almost smell the blood of the battles. Quite a compelling read.
Amidst the turmoil of Scotland in the 15th century, Julie Johnstone sets a glorious romance, fraught with the tension of enemies to lovers, hidden betrothals, and fated love. You can feel the cold of the windswept keeps and almost smell the blood of the battles. Quite a compelling read.
May 13, 2024
The heartbreaking start of this novels kept me turning the pages to find out how Brus & Grace would survive all they endured. Political intrigue, backstabbing, secrets, battles, romance and castles all lead to a fabulous read! This was a great start to this new series and I am looking forward to reading the rest as they are released!
May 26, 2024
Great Book
Amazing read! Thank you Julie Johnstone for returning to the highlands I was thrilled about reading this book, and I was not disappointed the story of Ross Stewart and feisty Grace McDonald. Awesome story about Ross Stewart known as Brus Stone cannot wait for the next story hope it's on Ross siblings Graeme and Margaret.
Amazing read! Thank you Julie Johnstone for returning to the highlands I was thrilled about reading this book, and I was not disappointed the story of Ross Stewart and feisty Grace McDonald. Awesome story about Ross Stewart known as Brus Stone cannot wait for the next story hope it's on Ross siblings Graeme and Margaret.
June 15, 2024
I love Julie Johnstone's books, and this one is a keeper! Julie includes some treachery and intrique between several characters in this story1. There is a hidden betrothal as well as secrets hidden and revealed when necessary. I loved the growing relationship of trust between Brus and Grace. To them trust was everything.
I can't wait for the next book to learn about Brus's brother and sister.
I can't wait for the next book to learn about Brus's brother and sister.
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