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Christmas Wishes of Love
Her first mistake was not killing the brute when she met him. Her second was falling in love with him.
Highlander Rory Matheson knows what he wants—a biddable wife. So when an edict from the king demands Rory choose a bride by Winter Solstice from the twin daughters of his clan’s greatest enemies—The MacLeods, he knows the moment he meets the sharp-tongued, headstrong Lillith that he’ll definitely not be picking her. Not only is she far from the docile wife he craves for peace, she’s unpredictable and dangerous—she put an arrow in his shoulder! Yet, he cannot keep away from the oddly enticing lass who stirs his desire. She’s brave and cunning, and she challenges him at every turn. And as the king’s deadline draws near, Rory comes to realize that he no longer wishes to win his battle of wills with Lillith—he’s determined to claim her heart.
Lillith MacLeod wants to be a warrior, not a wife. She’s seen the havoc love creates, and she’ll pass—thank you very much. She’s determined to defy both king and clan rather than become the bride of Rory bloody Matheson, so she hatches a scheme to drive Rory away and leave her clan blame-free. But she soon finds herself entangled in fiery exchanges with the irritatingly handsome Scot that spark her interest, kisses that ignite her desire, and a competition that reveals an honorable, caring side of the Hammer of the Highlands that she never expected. As tensions rise between the women and men of her clan over the edict and the king’s deadline looms, her family’s future—and her own—hangs in the balance, and she must is love her greatest enemy or is it herself?
Highlander Rory Matheson knows what he wants—a biddable wife. So when an edict from the king demands Rory choose a bride by Winter Solstice from the twin daughters of his clan’s greatest enemies—The MacLeods, he knows the moment he meets the sharp-tongued, headstrong Lillith that he’ll definitely not be picking her. Not only is she far from the docile wife he craves for peace, she’s unpredictable and dangerous—she put an arrow in his shoulder! Yet, he cannot keep away from the oddly enticing lass who stirs his desire. She’s brave and cunning, and she challenges him at every turn. And as the king’s deadline draws near, Rory comes to realize that he no longer wishes to win his battle of wills with Lillith—he’s determined to claim her heart.
Lillith MacLeod wants to be a warrior, not a wife. She’s seen the havoc love creates, and she’ll pass—thank you very much. She’s determined to defy both king and clan rather than become the bride of Rory bloody Matheson, so she hatches a scheme to drive Rory away and leave her clan blame-free. But she soon finds herself entangled in fiery exchanges with the irritatingly handsome Scot that spark her interest, kisses that ignite her desire, and a competition that reveals an honorable, caring side of the Hammer of the Highlands that she never expected. As tensions rise between the women and men of her clan over the edict and the king’s deadline looms, her family’s future—and her own—hangs in the balance, and she must is love her greatest enemy or is it herself?
176 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
75 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Julie Johnstone
96 books763 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 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 2, 2025
Julie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to Julie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even thoughJulie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even though she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even thoughJulie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the Julie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to Julie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even thoughJulie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even though she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even thoughJulie Johnstone has written another fantastic story and I loved it, it's the last book in a series. In 1396 the king of Scotland, Robert Bruce, decreed Rory Matheson must marry one of the MacLeod twins, to stop the feuds between the two clans. Rorys parent's have a terrible marriage, so Rory wants a wife who will be biddable and easy to get along with. Lilith MacLeod one of the twins wants to be a warrior and never get married, her twin Lenora wants to marry someone else. I loved the family dynamic, even if they were disagreeing with wants spouse, you felt the love was the most important part. The grandparents, parents, other family members added to the plot, I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even though she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book., I enjoyed how hard Rory had to work to get Lillian to marry him,even though she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book. she felt her love for Rory. A wonderful story to end a series, I would recommend this book to anyone who loved a Christmas story or good Scottish highlander book.
December 1, 2025
Her first mistake was not killing the brute when she met him. Her second was falling in love with him.
I really enjoyed this story so much that I didn’t stop until the last page. It was a very entertaining and heartfelt story about being forced into an arranged marriage. Lilith MacLeod was like a thorny rosebush both beautiful but prickly. The first time she meets Rory Matheson she shoots him with an arrow. From their first encounter you knew something was brewing between these two.
At the request of the King, Rory Matheson is being forced to marry either Lilith or Lenora the twin daughters of his clan’s greatest enemy. He knows he doesn’t want a spitfire for a wife but a docile wife who will give him a peaceful marriage not a blistery one his parents.
When the twins find out they are being forced into marriage they come up with a plan to have Rory dislike both of them and refuse the marriage. But as they say, best laid plans don’t always go according to plan. Lilith wants to be a warrior and is afraid to love she wants to protect her heart and not be hurt and Lenora is in love with another.
She’s nothing like the quiet, obedient wife he thought he wanted—she literally shot him with an arrow! But Rory can’t stay away from the bold, clever woman who keeps him on his toes. As the king’s deadline approaches, he realizes he doesn’t want to win their battle of wills; he wants to win her heart.
Meanwhile, Lillith finds herself drawn to the vexing, yet irresistible Scot. Their fiery banter, unexpected stolen kisses, and fierce competition reveal a side of him she never saw coming. With family tensions rising and the king’s decree looming, she must face her biggest question: is her greatest enemy Rory—or herself?
I loved how, once Rory realized he wanted Lilith, he patiently broke down her defenses, taking the time to convince her that they were a perfect match. His determination wasn’t driven by the King’s wishes but rooted in his genuine desire to marry her for who she truly was. Despite Lilith being feisty, difficult, and staunchly opposed to marriage—Rory remained undeterred.
This delightful Christmas tale had me completely captivated—I couldn’t put it down and finished it in a single day. The heartfelt, engaging story unfolds with two feuding families, the charming Masie the dog, and a magical wishing tree, all weaving together to guide a destined couple toward their happy ending. The wonderful characters, rich family dynamics, and touches of humor kept me smiling from start to finish. Truly, an unmissable holiday story that warmed my heart and left me enchanted.
I received a complimentary advanced copy from the author, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this story so much that I didn’t stop until the last page. It was a very entertaining and heartfelt story about being forced into an arranged marriage. Lilith MacLeod was like a thorny rosebush both beautiful but prickly. The first time she meets Rory Matheson she shoots him with an arrow. From their first encounter you knew something was brewing between these two.
At the request of the King, Rory Matheson is being forced to marry either Lilith or Lenora the twin daughters of his clan’s greatest enemy. He knows he doesn’t want a spitfire for a wife but a docile wife who will give him a peaceful marriage not a blistery one his parents.
When the twins find out they are being forced into marriage they come up with a plan to have Rory dislike both of them and refuse the marriage. But as they say, best laid plans don’t always go according to plan. Lilith wants to be a warrior and is afraid to love she wants to protect her heart and not be hurt and Lenora is in love with another.
She’s nothing like the quiet, obedient wife he thought he wanted—she literally shot him with an arrow! But Rory can’t stay away from the bold, clever woman who keeps him on his toes. As the king’s deadline approaches, he realizes he doesn’t want to win their battle of wills; he wants to win her heart.
Meanwhile, Lillith finds herself drawn to the vexing, yet irresistible Scot. Their fiery banter, unexpected stolen kisses, and fierce competition reveal a side of him she never saw coming. With family tensions rising and the king’s decree looming, she must face her biggest question: is her greatest enemy Rory—or herself?
I loved how, once Rory realized he wanted Lilith, he patiently broke down her defenses, taking the time to convince her that they were a perfect match. His determination wasn’t driven by the King’s wishes but rooted in his genuine desire to marry her for who she truly was. Despite Lilith being feisty, difficult, and staunchly opposed to marriage—Rory remained undeterred.
This delightful Christmas tale had me completely captivated—I couldn’t put it down and finished it in a single day. The heartfelt, engaging story unfolds with two feuding families, the charming Masie the dog, and a magical wishing tree, all weaving together to guide a destined couple toward their happy ending. The wonderful characters, rich family dynamics, and touches of humor kept me smiling from start to finish. Truly, an unmissable holiday story that warmed my heart and left me enchanted.
I received a complimentary advanced copy from the author, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
November 20, 2025
Christmas Wishes of Love
Julie Johnstone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rory Matheson thinks he knows what he wants. He wants an easy biddable wife. One that won't make his life so tough. So when the king demands that Rory choose a bride by winter solstice, he just thinks it will be easy. You see the king has demanded that he marry one of two twins. Twins of his clans greatest enemies and he knows he must go meet them. What Rory doesn't know is that the MacLeod women are a force to be reckoned with, and it won't be easy. From the moment he meets Lilith, who is headstrong and sharp-tongued, he knows that he won't be picking her. She's far from the kind of wife he needs. Heck! She even shot him in the shoulder with an arrow, and he doesn't want or need that kind of wife. Yet, he can't seem to keep away from Lillith. She's brave, strong, feisty, and never backs down, stirring his blood like a siren in the night.
Lillith MacLeod doesn't want to be a wife. She wants to be a warrior. She's seen the hurt that love can bring and she wants no part of that. She is determined to defy both king and clan and not marry Rory. The MacLeod women are on her side, and they devise a plan to drive Rory away and leave her clan blame-free. But she soon finds her heart is not going along with her plan when the sexy Scot proves over and over that he really is honorable and caring.
As tension grows between the women and men of her clan over the king's edict and the deadline looms closer and closer she finds her future hanging in the balance, and she must decide if it's love that is her greatest enemy or if it's herself.
Julie Johnstone is absolutely brilliant. From the moment I opened the book until the very end, I couldn't put it down. It was such a lovely and touching story to read. The characters were absolutely perfect, and watching the love grow between Lillith and Rory was refreshing. All in all, if you enjoy a great Christmas themed historical book, then look no further because this book is one you won't want to miss.
Julie Johnstone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rory Matheson thinks he knows what he wants. He wants an easy biddable wife. One that won't make his life so tough. So when the king demands that Rory choose a bride by winter solstice, he just thinks it will be easy. You see the king has demanded that he marry one of two twins. Twins of his clans greatest enemies and he knows he must go meet them. What Rory doesn't know is that the MacLeod women are a force to be reckoned with, and it won't be easy. From the moment he meets Lilith, who is headstrong and sharp-tongued, he knows that he won't be picking her. She's far from the kind of wife he needs. Heck! She even shot him in the shoulder with an arrow, and he doesn't want or need that kind of wife. Yet, he can't seem to keep away from Lillith. She's brave, strong, feisty, and never backs down, stirring his blood like a siren in the night.
Lillith MacLeod doesn't want to be a wife. She wants to be a warrior. She's seen the hurt that love can bring and she wants no part of that. She is determined to defy both king and clan and not marry Rory. The MacLeod women are on her side, and they devise a plan to drive Rory away and leave her clan blame-free. But she soon finds her heart is not going along with her plan when the sexy Scot proves over and over that he really is honorable and caring.
As tension grows between the women and men of her clan over the king's edict and the deadline looms closer and closer she finds her future hanging in the balance, and she must decide if it's love that is her greatest enemy or if it's herself.
Julie Johnstone is absolutely brilliant. From the moment I opened the book until the very end, I couldn't put it down. It was such a lovely and touching story to read. The characters were absolutely perfect, and watching the love grow between Lillith and Rory was refreshing. All in all, if you enjoy a great Christmas themed historical book, then look no further because this book is one you won't want to miss.
December 3, 2025
When she was just a child, Lillith MacLeod made a wish that she would never suffer from a broken heart after seeing how unhappy her father was after losing her mother. Since that day, Lillith has dedicated herself to becoming a warrior for her clan and has made it clear that she has no plans to marry. Lucky for her, her father found love, remarried and promised that Lillith and her twin sister Lenora would be able to choose their own husbands. But that promise may be in danger of being broken, when the king demands that MacLeods end their feud with the Matheson clan by marriage! The king has declared that Rory Matheson, the heir to the Matheson laird can choose his bride between the two sisters. And after being accidentally shot with an arrow by Lillith, it is clear that he won’t be choosing her, he wants a biddable wife.
This royal decree has ramifications, if the clans do no abide the king’s command, they will lose lands and power, but if Iain MacLeod agrees and forces one of his granddaughter to wed Rory, then the cost could be his marriage, as his wife, as well as several of his other womenfolk are adamantly opposed to forcing the girls to wed. Lucky for him, the women have a plan to scare Rory off and shift the blame for the failed clan merger on the Mathesons. Lillith is more than happy to torment Rory, since she has no desire to ever get married, but why does he have to be so handsome and likable?
I really enjoyed this novella, it was well-written and nicely paced and I felt that the relationship between Lillith and Rory progressed at a believable pace. If you love a low/no steam, enemies to lovers romance, then this book is for you! This book is linked to the Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts Series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
This royal decree has ramifications, if the clans do no abide the king’s command, they will lose lands and power, but if Iain MacLeod agrees and forces one of his granddaughter to wed Rory, then the cost could be his marriage, as his wife, as well as several of his other womenfolk are adamantly opposed to forcing the girls to wed. Lucky for him, the women have a plan to scare Rory off and shift the blame for the failed clan merger on the Mathesons. Lillith is more than happy to torment Rory, since she has no desire to ever get married, but why does he have to be so handsome and likable?
I really enjoyed this novella, it was well-written and nicely paced and I felt that the relationship between Lillith and Rory progressed at a believable pace. If you love a low/no steam, enemies to lovers romance, then this book is for you! This book is linked to the Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts Series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title with no problems.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
December 29, 2025
Julie Johnstone’s Christmas Wishes of Love, is the eleventh book in her beloved Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts series.
It’s a delightful enemies-to-lovers holiday novella that packs plenty of passion, banter, and Highland heart into a compact, festive package.
Set against the backdrop of feuding clans and a royal decree forcing Rory Matheson (the “Hammer of the Highlands”) to choose a bride from the rival MacLeod twins by Winter Solstice.
This story delivers classic Johnstone magic. And I loved it.
Rory wants a biddable, peaceful wife…. what he gets is Lillith MacLeod. A sharp tongued, arrow slinging (yes, she literally shoots him in the shoulder upon meeting), and determined to become a warrior rather than anyone’s bride.
Their instant clash sparks fireworks, evolving into fiery exchanges, scorching kisses, and a delicious battle of wills.
Rory starts as the stereotypical gruff Highlander craving control but reveals layers of honor and tenderness.
Lillith, scarred by witnessing love’s destructive side, is fiercely independent yet vulnerable, her plan to scare Rory off while protecting her clan adds clever tension and humor.
Johnstone balances the push/pull romance with clan politics, family loyalties, and the looming king’s deadline, all wrapped in seasonal cheer.
As a novella, it’s briskly paced with no filler, making it perfect for a cozy holiday read.
The steam level is higher than some of Johnstone’s earlier works, expect passionate scenes that earn the “spicy” label common in her Highland tales, while staying true to the emotional depth I’ve come to love. I loved catching the cameos from previous couples, but newcomers can jump in easily as a standalone.
If you’re a Lover of spicy Scottish historicals, then this book is for you.
If you crave brawny Highlanders tamed by feisty lasses, holiday vibes, and a satisfying HEA, grab a plaid blanket and settle in, this one’s a winner!
🦋
It’s a delightful enemies-to-lovers holiday novella that packs plenty of passion, banter, and Highland heart into a compact, festive package.
Set against the backdrop of feuding clans and a royal decree forcing Rory Matheson (the “Hammer of the Highlands”) to choose a bride from the rival MacLeod twins by Winter Solstice.
This story delivers classic Johnstone magic. And I loved it.
Rory wants a biddable, peaceful wife…. what he gets is Lillith MacLeod. A sharp tongued, arrow slinging (yes, she literally shoots him in the shoulder upon meeting), and determined to become a warrior rather than anyone’s bride.
Their instant clash sparks fireworks, evolving into fiery exchanges, scorching kisses, and a delicious battle of wills.
Rory starts as the stereotypical gruff Highlander craving control but reveals layers of honor and tenderness.
Lillith, scarred by witnessing love’s destructive side, is fiercely independent yet vulnerable, her plan to scare Rory off while protecting her clan adds clever tension and humor.
Johnstone balances the push/pull romance with clan politics, family loyalties, and the looming king’s deadline, all wrapped in seasonal cheer.
As a novella, it’s briskly paced with no filler, making it perfect for a cozy holiday read.
The steam level is higher than some of Johnstone’s earlier works, expect passionate scenes that earn the “spicy” label common in her Highland tales, while staying true to the emotional depth I’ve come to love. I loved catching the cameos from previous couples, but newcomers can jump in easily as a standalone.
If you’re a Lover of spicy Scottish historicals, then this book is for you.
If you crave brawny Highlanders tamed by feisty lasses, holiday vibes, and a satisfying HEA, grab a plaid blanket and settle in, this one’s a winner!
🦋
December 1, 2025
Totally Enchanting - Perfect for Christmas!!
This Highland Vows: Entangled Hearts Christmas Novella is captivating, grabs the reader from the first page and doesn't let go until the end. First, this is a MacLeod story about the granddaughters of Iain and Marion, book one of this series! You just know it's going to be good!
This book starts with Lenora and Lillith MacLeod, twin granddaughters of Iain MacLeod, being ordered by King Robert as the solution to peace between the MacLeod and Matheson clans and that Rory Matheson will choose which twin to marry or else either clan can lose their lands. Problem is, the twins father promised they could choose their own husband. This pits all the MacLeod men against their women and that's when the fun begins.
Lenora is sweet and Lillith a hellion. Rory thinks he knows which one he wants to choose, but . . . And there is a Wishing Tree at the beginning of this story where the twins, at the age of 8, made their wishes and the seer Eolande granted. Rory Matheson wasn't particularly interested in marriage yet, but he has no choice. He just wants a peaceful marriage.
I loved the strength of both the twins, Lillith's being more obvious, but Lenora coming through when needed! And Rory! His character is awesome! He is the perfect hero and I fell for him too.
I totally enjoyed this book, the characters, the love story and the HEA! I loved reconnecting with the MacLeod beloved characters from previous books in this series, BUT, having said that, this can also be read as a standalone for sure!
This author does it again and enthralls the reader right up to the end. Much respect to Julie Johnstone. This series is my favorite!
This Highland Vows: Entangled Hearts Christmas Novella is captivating, grabs the reader from the first page and doesn't let go until the end. First, this is a MacLeod story about the granddaughters of Iain and Marion, book one of this series! You just know it's going to be good!
This book starts with Lenora and Lillith MacLeod, twin granddaughters of Iain MacLeod, being ordered by King Robert as the solution to peace between the MacLeod and Matheson clans and that Rory Matheson will choose which twin to marry or else either clan can lose their lands. Problem is, the twins father promised they could choose their own husband. This pits all the MacLeod men against their women and that's when the fun begins.
Lenora is sweet and Lillith a hellion. Rory thinks he knows which one he wants to choose, but . . . And there is a Wishing Tree at the beginning of this story where the twins, at the age of 8, made their wishes and the seer Eolande granted. Rory Matheson wasn't particularly interested in marriage yet, but he has no choice. He just wants a peaceful marriage.
I loved the strength of both the twins, Lillith's being more obvious, but Lenora coming through when needed! And Rory! His character is awesome! He is the perfect hero and I fell for him too.
I totally enjoyed this book, the characters, the love story and the HEA! I loved reconnecting with the MacLeod beloved characters from previous books in this series, BUT, having said that, this can also be read as a standalone for sure!
This author does it again and enthralls the reader right up to the end. Much respect to Julie Johnstone. This series is my favorite!
December 3, 2025
Whether you're already a fan of Julie Johnstone's Highlander Vows - Entangled Hearts series or new to these books, Christmas Wishes of Love is a story that should be on your holiday reading list.
This new novella highlights all the reasons why Johnstone is one of my favorite authors writing romance in the Medieval era. The setting, language, and characters all feel authentic to place and time. The family dynamics are an absolute delight. The characters are well developed, eliciting a range of emotions that made me smile, laugh, shed a tear or two, and cheer well-deserved happy endings.
The banter between Rory and Lillith is terrific, as are the chemistry and deepening feelings. I love a romance where both parties are against the match then slowly, over time, come to realize there really couldn't be anyone else for them but the one they were against. I adored Rory's wooing of Lillith, the care he used as well as his emotional support. especially appreciated his respect and support of her wishes for her life. I also enjoyed Lillith's evolution from fear of opening her heart to acceptance and celebration of a deep abiding love. She touched my heart and was easy to cheer for. Also, the advice from older generations to both Lillith and Rory was a delight. So much fun to see Iain and Marion (When a Laird Loves a Lady - Book 1) as meddling grandparents!
While I love and recommend all of the books in this series, Christmas Wishes of Love can easily be enjoyed as a standalone story. Don't hesitate to make this heart-tugging novella your first visit to Julie Johnstone's Highlanders.
This new novella highlights all the reasons why Johnstone is one of my favorite authors writing romance in the Medieval era. The setting, language, and characters all feel authentic to place and time. The family dynamics are an absolute delight. The characters are well developed, eliciting a range of emotions that made me smile, laugh, shed a tear or two, and cheer well-deserved happy endings.
The banter between Rory and Lillith is terrific, as are the chemistry and deepening feelings. I love a romance where both parties are against the match then slowly, over time, come to realize there really couldn't be anyone else for them but the one they were against. I adored Rory's wooing of Lillith, the care he used as well as his emotional support. especially appreciated his respect and support of her wishes for her life. I also enjoyed Lillith's evolution from fear of opening her heart to acceptance and celebration of a deep abiding love. She touched my heart and was easy to cheer for. Also, the advice from older generations to both Lillith and Rory was a delight. So much fun to see Iain and Marion (When a Laird Loves a Lady - Book 1) as meddling grandparents!
While I love and recommend all of the books in this series, Christmas Wishes of Love can easily be enjoyed as a standalone story. Don't hesitate to make this heart-tugging novella your first visit to Julie Johnstone's Highlanders.
December 1, 2025
Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts by Julie Johnstone is one of my all time favorite historical romance series. Set in my native Scotland during medieval times it follows the lives, loves and struggles of the MacLeod family of the Isle of Skye. Christmas Wishes of Love takes place years after the original story and now it’s the siblings’ children who get their HEA. Lillith, saw her father fall into despair when her and her twin sister Lenora’s mother died years ago. She made a wish at the fairy pool for her father to find peace and that she never be broken by love. Rory has lived with parents who hated each other and has sworn never to fall in love. Unfortunately for them the King has demanded they marry. As expected they loath each other from the start but as with any good romance book the more time they spend with each other they feel an attraction and eventually love. As a huge fan of the original books, this was a delight to read and catch up with beloved characters. Though the reader can read this as a standalone, I highly encourage you to read the whole series. I highly recommend this book.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
I received and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book and these are my honest opinions and review.
December 15, 2025
Christmas Wishes of Love is book 11 in the Highlander Vows Entangled Hearts series. It can be read as a standalone, but I generally recommend reading a series in order. The characters are richer and deeper that way. Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it wasn’t my favorite in the series. That honor belongs to the first ‘When a Laird Loves a Lady.’ Christmas Wishes of Love is a short novella and a nice relaxing read on a dark winter day. The heroine Lilith is yet another spitfire who gets herself in jams which lead to some genuinely humorous moments. Out of all of the characters I think my favorite one was the hero Rory. He is wise, patient and gentle. To be completely blunt as I try to be, I’m growing weary of the “spitfire Scottish lass” characters. They just feel a bit overdone. But Johnstone understands the human psyche on a deeper level and her characters are more than just another trope. Though it wasn’t my favorite of the series, I still highly recommend this one. This is a sweet romance.
November 23, 2025
The Kings Decree Changes Many Lives
This is a very good story of discovery for two characters that I felt like I actually knew them
Rory was a dream come true as far as I was concerned. He had such patience and
determination to prove to Lillith that loving someone could be wonderful and bring happiness to a marriage
Lillith was so very fearful from a young age that love meant sorrow and isolation ever since her mother's death.
This is a gripping story that I read in one day it was so heartfeltly engrossing.
Two feuding families of characters along with Masie the dog and a wishing tree were all helpful in bringing this couple to a happy ending.
A delightful Christmas tale not to miss.
This is a very good story of discovery for two characters that I felt like I actually knew them
Rory was a dream come true as far as I was concerned. He had such patience and
determination to prove to Lillith that loving someone could be wonderful and bring happiness to a marriage
Lillith was so very fearful from a young age that love meant sorrow and isolation ever since her mother's death.
This is a gripping story that I read in one day it was so heartfeltly engrossing.
Two feuding families of characters along with Masie the dog and a wishing tree were all helpful in bringing this couple to a happy ending.
A delightful Christmas tale not to miss.
December 2, 2025
King Robert has decreed that the MacLeod and Matheson Clans make an alliance through marriage. The Matheson heir, Rory, is to choose one of the MacLeod twins to wed by the end of Winter Solstice. Lilith and Leonora are not happy about this. Their father promised them they could marry for love. Rory knows that he wants a biddable wife, but the first of the twins he meets is anything but. Lilith doesn’t want a husband; she wants to be a warrior. These two can’t possibly make a match, can they? This is an enchanting Highland holiday story with delightful characters, a wonderful family dynamic, and a trip to the wishing tree for a happy ending. An enjoyable story brought to life by the talented Timothy Campbell.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 2, 2025
Two clans at war, edict from the King to wed the clans together, and Christmas wishes from the past. I really enjoyed this story. Watching Lillith be as contrary as possible to protect her heart was amusing and a bit heartbreaking. She was so strong with one real weakness, though she did not truly understand where those thoughts came from. Rory was willing to do his duty but his own family life had him approaching this wedding with fear and low expectations. The flames between Lillith and Rory were there from the start but not the reasons. Their journey was full of wit, secrets, companionship, and so much support from their families, even from opposite sides. I had tears by the end. Worth the read.
I received an ARC, and this is my unsolicited review.
I received an ARC, and this is my unsolicited review.
November 18, 2025
When you meet the woman you want to marry, but also need to convince her.
Good holiday story. I loved the patience and forward thinking that Rory had, but mostly I loved that he can see a diamond in the rough. Ok, she did shoot him with an arrow, she is fiesty, unbiddable, and does not want to get married. But still. Maybe he can sway her. Maybe. He was not the Hammer of the Highlands when it came to her, that's for sure.
Really good story to read during the holidays. A heart-warming story at a pace that will have you slowing down during the holiday rush of things.
Good holiday story. I loved the patience and forward thinking that Rory had, but mostly I loved that he can see a diamond in the rough. Ok, she did shoot him with an arrow, she is fiesty, unbiddable, and does not want to get married. But still. Maybe he can sway her. Maybe. He was not the Hammer of the Highlands when it came to her, that's for sure.
Really good story to read during the holidays. A heart-warming story at a pace that will have you slowing down during the holiday rush of things.
November 23, 2025
A fabulous highland romance, with wonderful characters. The Scottish king is demanding two of his Clans make peace between them by marriage.
Our hero is not particularly happy about the demand,but willing.
Our heroine is one of twins. Neither of them want to marry the man who has the choice between them.
It is a very enjoyable, happy story with strong family ties. Even the battles are fun.
I loved it.
Our hero is not particularly happy about the demand,but willing.
Our heroine is one of twins. Neither of them want to marry the man who has the choice between them.
It is a very enjoyable, happy story with strong family ties. Even the battles are fun.
I loved it.
December 1, 2025
Never give your heart to a man.
I loved the mystery of the wishing well and Eolande’s powers. Lillith and Leonora MacLead met fear head on and made a wish at 8 yrs of age. Roy Matherson, Hammer of the Highland, would choose a twin to marry by order of the King by the end of the Winter Solstice. The power of love never fails and neither did the Winter Solstice. Fun story, great characters and a true love story.
I loved the mystery of the wishing well and Eolande’s powers. Lillith and Leonora MacLead met fear head on and made a wish at 8 yrs of age. Roy Matherson, Hammer of the Highland, would choose a twin to marry by order of the King by the end of the Winter Solstice. The power of love never fails and neither did the Winter Solstice. Fun story, great characters and a true love story.
December 8, 2025
I love when the couple start off with strife and conflict but learn they can't resist each other in the long run. It may have been a bumpy path to happiness but it was their path all along. This was a great entertaining read with wonderful characters throughout. I couldn't put it down until I finished it then closed it with a bittersweet sigh for the happy time reading it but also sad it was over. I loved it!
December 8, 2025
Choices
The King has declared the Matheson heir choose one of the MacCloud twins to marry to stop the feud between the two clans. After meeting one twin in the forest where she shot him with an arrow and then meeting the other docile twin in the keep, his decision is obvious. Right?
The King has declared the Matheson heir choose one of the MacCloud twins to marry to stop the feud between the two clans. After meeting one twin in the forest where she shot him with an arrow and then meeting the other docile twin in the keep, his decision is obvious. Right?
December 10, 2025
Love Christmas romances Rory wants a biddable wife, Lilith wants to be a warrior and not a wife, she has seen the chaos that love can bring and wants no part of it. Despite the wishes of both King and clan, neither wishes for the match yet their attraction is almost instantaneous can they find a middle ground that will satisfy their King and stop their clans coming to blows.
November 26, 2025
A wonderful Highland romance, I loved the story and characters. Rory and Lilith have love/hate and full of desire going on... theirs is a challenging and enticing journey to a love that's deserving and everlasting.
December 2, 2025
This story bursts with tension, wit, and longing.
Rory and Lillith’s clash of wills delivers sparks, laughter, and slow-burn tenderness that feels both passionate and heartfelt.
Their journey from enemies to reluctant lovers carries a satisfying blend of fire and vulnerability.
Rory and Lillith’s clash of wills delivers sparks, laughter, and slow-burn tenderness that feels both passionate and heartfelt.
Their journey from enemies to reluctant lovers carries a satisfying blend of fire and vulnerability.
December 1, 2025
Novella. Delightful. Two twins find unexpected love. Rory courts Lilian perfectly. Love to read again. Outstanding story for the holidays!!! Love Julie’s books
December 7, 2025
What happens when the king says you have to wed your family’s enemy? Well, in Julie Johnstone’s world it’s love for them both!
A fun and short Happily Ever After for your Christmas reading.
A fun and short Happily Ever After for your Christmas reading.
December 21, 2025
If you like period romances, you'll enjoy this book. This is my first read from this author, and I liked it. I had the book on Audible, and it was done really well.
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