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Jacobite Chronicles #6
Tides of Fortune
THE SIXTH AND FINAL BOOK IN THE CAPTIVATING SERIES WHICH FOLLOWS THE LIVES OF BETH AND ALEX MACGREGOR, THEIR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.Alex, now believing Beth to be alive, leaves Scotland and heads south to keep the promise he made to her at Culloden, determined to be reunited with his wife regardless of the danger to himself.Meanwhile the Duke of Newcastle has realised that he cannot kill Beth, either publicly or privately, without attracting the enmity of powerful people, including the heir to the throne. He hits upon a way of being rid of her forever; transportation to Antigua as an indentured servant for life. By this deed he hopes that the terrible conditions on the sugar plantations will achieve the much-desired death of the woman who has defied him for so long.Things do not go according to plan and soon Beth finds her life going in a direction neither she nor Newcastle could have foreseen, which leads her to make a decision that could have a terrible impact on Alex as he attempts to discover her whereabouts.JOIN THE REBELLION AS BETH AND ALEX FIGHT TO SURVIVE AND BE REUNITED IN…THE JACOBITE CHRONICLES
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2018
351 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
Julia Brannan
17 books334 followersJulia has been a voracious reader since childhood, using books to escape the miseries of a turbulent adolescence. After leaving university with a degree in English Language and Literature, she spent her twenties trying to be a sensible and responsible person, even going so far as to work for the Civil Service for six years.
Then she gave up trying to conform, resigned her well-paid but boring job and resolved to spend the rest of her life living as she wanted to, not as others would like her to. She has since had a variety of jobs, including telesales, Post Office clerk, primary school teacher, and painter and gilder.
In her spare time she is still a voracious reader, and enjoys keeping fit, exploring the beautiful countryside around her home, and travelling the world. Life hasn’t always been good, but it has rarely been boring. Until recently she lived in the beautiful Brecon Beacons in Wales, but in June she moved to Scotland, and now lives in a log cabin in rural Aberdeenshire, so has new countryside to explore!
A few years ago she decided that rather than just escape into other people’s books, she would quite like to create some of her own and so combined her passion for history and literature to write the Jacobite Chronicles. She’s now writing the side stories of some of the minor characters, and is researching for her next series, The Road to Rebellion, which will go back to the start of the whole Jacobite movement.
People seem to enjoy reading her books as much as she enjoys writing them, so now, apart from a tiny amount of editing work, she is a full-time writer. She has plunged into the contemporary genre too, but her first love will always be historical fiction.
Then she gave up trying to conform, resigned her well-paid but boring job and resolved to spend the rest of her life living as she wanted to, not as others would like her to. She has since had a variety of jobs, including telesales, Post Office clerk, primary school teacher, and painter and gilder.
In her spare time she is still a voracious reader, and enjoys keeping fit, exploring the beautiful countryside around her home, and travelling the world. Life hasn’t always been good, but it has rarely been boring. Until recently she lived in the beautiful Brecon Beacons in Wales, but in June she moved to Scotland, and now lives in a log cabin in rural Aberdeenshire, so has new countryside to explore!
A few years ago she decided that rather than just escape into other people’s books, she would quite like to create some of her own and so combined her passion for history and literature to write the Jacobite Chronicles. She’s now writing the side stories of some of the minor characters, and is researching for her next series, The Road to Rebellion, which will go back to the start of the whole Jacobite movement.
People seem to enjoy reading her books as much as she enjoys writing them, so now, apart from a tiny amount of editing work, she is a full-time writer. She has plunged into the contemporary genre too, but her first love will always be historical fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
May 11, 2022
Loved the series so, so much!
September 27, 2020
A glorious finale to one of the best series in historical fiction that I’ve read in ages. I just finished Tides of Fortune (after 3 nights of reading till the sun came up). This may be one of my favorite books in the series and the ending left me giddy and swept me off my feet. The Jacobite Chronicles is series that is about true love, familial love, Clan love, friendship, betrayal, adventure, and love of country - amongst others things. It’s a wonderful window into Highland life pre and post the Battle Culloden Moor. The historical detail is exceptional. It has a flavor similar to Outlander though it’s it’s own story. Like Outlander though you fall deeply in love with these characters. Brannan is a master storyteller and an incredibly good writer. Basically, this book has it all. Well, except the silly covers which don’t reflect the excellence inside them. The Jacobite Chronicles has one of the great love affairs in historical fiction. I loved each book but what was best about the series is how it builds up to a perfect finale. There are no books in this series that aren’t excellent. Brannan’s pacing is some of the best I’ve read. I will miss these characters fiercely. Endings are hard, and often they don’t take you to where you want to be, that giddy place where you know that this was the only ending, the right ending. Tides of Fortune gets a 10 on finale. I will miss Beth, Sir Anthony, Alex, Angus, Sarah, Caroline & Edwin, Graeme, John. Highbury, & Duncan and the rest. Not Richard so much, but few villains have been better written. I’m a little depressed that it’s over! I can not recommend this series enough. To be honest, I loved Outlander, but I love this better (I know...gasp!). I wish there were more books like this one, but it’s the special ones you never forget, and I will never forget this series.
September 10, 2018
On the whole, I loved Julia Brannan's Jacobite Chronicles, but it turns out that you can have too much of a good thing. While I was fascinated by the aftermath of the rebellion in Pursuit of Princes (The Jacobite Chronicles), Tides of Fortune seemed unnecessary.
Very little of significance happened in Tides of Fortune – Beth and Alex travelled through various location in Britain, France, and the West Indies, seeming to just miss each other, all the while thinking the other was dead. Alex’s time with Sarah was the only real highlight for me.
I would absolutely recommend this series; I just wish it finished one book sooner.
Very little of significance happened in Tides of Fortune – Beth and Alex travelled through various location in Britain, France, and the West Indies, seeming to just miss each other, all the while thinking the other was dead. Alex’s time with Sarah was the only real highlight for me.
I would absolutely recommend this series; I just wish it finished one book sooner.
March 12, 2018
I really loved the first five books in this series. I gave all of them four stars. They would have gotten five but I don't care for the foul language. I don't think it's necessary. The first five books are full of suspense and intrigue. They are entertaining and the characters are wonderful.
This book, the sixth in the series, I felt it fell flat. The story had no action or intrigue, no adventure really. There were so many fun ways the author could have gone with this final chapter of Beth and Alex's lives, and even in the way she took their lives, the story could have been interesting, but it wasn't.
While being historically accurate for the avenue the author chose, the book had no adventure and I feel it does not do justice to the characters I have grown to love. I would have given the book an even lower rating but because I love the first five books so much I gave this one three stars. I couldn't put the others down and finished them in less than two days with little sleep. This one, I took three days and had no problem letting it go for hours at a time. To be honest, I don't think I can go back and reread this series again because of how let down I was by the conclusion.
The more I thought about my feelings for this book the more I realized I needed to change my rating to a two star. I feel bad because I loved the first five books so much but this one was such a let down.
This book, the sixth in the series, I felt it fell flat. The story had no action or intrigue, no adventure really. There were so many fun ways the author could have gone with this final chapter of Beth and Alex's lives, and even in the way she took their lives, the story could have been interesting, but it wasn't.
While being historically accurate for the avenue the author chose, the book had no adventure and I feel it does not do justice to the characters I have grown to love. I would have given the book an even lower rating but because I love the first five books so much I gave this one three stars. I couldn't put the others down and finished them in less than two days with little sleep. This one, I took three days and had no problem letting it go for hours at a time. To be honest, I don't think I can go back and reread this series again because of how let down I was by the conclusion.
The more I thought about my feelings for this book the more I realized I needed to change my rating to a two star. I feel bad because I loved the first five books so much but this one was such a let down.
July 22, 2018
Fitting Finale
I’m SO sad the series is ended!! I’ve enjoyed all 6 of the books in this series, and have to admit to reading the last three in immediate succession, having taken a breather after the first three. It is wonderful to be able to fully immerse yourself in a different time and learn the realities in an entertaining way.
As a lover of historical fiction I found the characters to be well developed and plots both plausible but educational. I especially enjoyed the author’s notes at the end of each, adding further elucidation and clarity to these historically significant times.
I’m SO sad the series is ended!! I’ve enjoyed all 6 of the books in this series, and have to admit to reading the last three in immediate succession, having taken a breather after the first three. It is wonderful to be able to fully immerse yourself in a different time and learn the realities in an entertaining way.
As a lover of historical fiction I found the characters to be well developed and plots both plausible but educational. I especially enjoyed the author’s notes at the end of each, adding further elucidation and clarity to these historically significant times.
March 17, 2018
The final chapter is complete. This series is really one very long book and the six must be read in order. Bonnie Prince Charlie is featured in numerous historical novels but this series takes the whole Jacobian uprising from the planning to Culloden and its aftermath. Extemely interesting and well developed history and you will love the whole Scottish clan and their involvement in planning and executing of the uprising. I am sorry the final book is the weakest but the series is worth your time. Five stars for the series not a single book.
May 26, 2023
Well this one was an excellent finale for the series. The story did seem to drag out too much and then quickly come to an end in a rush. Good thing there’s now books about other characters in the series.
January 15, 2025
I loved this series and the McGregor clan (and friends) in particular. Julia Brannan brought everything together at the end. A great finish to the series.
May 16, 2024
I loved this series. I am sad to say goodbye to Beth,Alex, Sir Anthony, and the Macgregor clan.
I wish there was more!
I wish there was more!
March 18, 2018
OK
I have read the first four books in this fascinating and exciting series. This fifth and final book of the series is a bit of a !etdown for me, though. I have very mixed feelings here.
I love the Alex character. Brannan has created a very honorable and romantic character and blown life into him with all the emotions. His arduous and heartrending journey is we'll written and I had trouble putting the book down.
As for Beth.....I have a hard time with her experience in Martinique as regard the black slaves. I felt the plantation's cruelness and way of life was danced over somewhat. And I realize it is difficult to introduce it into a storyline especially having read the Author's Note. I just am not impressed with the light manner in which it was written and Beth's introduction to plantation life and her actions there. I agree with Brannan's assertion that black slavery should be taught in schools, and the blatant ommissions of this worldwide history should be corrected immediately. The author did not hold back the atrocities perpetrated on Scotland and its inhabitants. This bothered me no end. Beth was not more honorable for her subsequent actions in my eyes. I would have liked to know more about Raymond and Rosalie.......that part of the story just ends!
With all my criticism of this final installment of the series, I have loved reading it and anxiously awaited each new book. I have devoured this story and definitely recommend to readers of historical romance fiction. Brannan incorporates solid historical facts of the politics, customs and characters of this 18th century turbulent era in Scotland, Britain, France, Italy and the colonies. I found it thoroughly fascinating and hope to see more from this author.
I have read the first four books in this fascinating and exciting series. This fifth and final book of the series is a bit of a !etdown for me, though. I have very mixed feelings here.
I love the Alex character. Brannan has created a very honorable and romantic character and blown life into him with all the emotions. His arduous and heartrending journey is we'll written and I had trouble putting the book down.
As for Beth.....I have a hard time with her experience in Martinique as regard the black slaves. I felt the plantation's cruelness and way of life was danced over somewhat. And I realize it is difficult to introduce it into a storyline especially having read the Author's Note. I just am not impressed with the light manner in which it was written and Beth's introduction to plantation life and her actions there. I agree with Brannan's assertion that black slavery should be taught in schools, and the blatant ommissions of this worldwide history should be corrected immediately. The author did not hold back the atrocities perpetrated on Scotland and its inhabitants. This bothered me no end. Beth was not more honorable for her subsequent actions in my eyes. I would have liked to know more about Raymond and Rosalie.......that part of the story just ends!
With all my criticism of this final installment of the series, I have loved reading it and anxiously awaited each new book. I have devoured this story and definitely recommend to readers of historical romance fiction. Brannan incorporates solid historical facts of the politics, customs and characters of this 18th century turbulent era in Scotland, Britain, France, Italy and the colonies. I found it thoroughly fascinating and hope to see more from this author.
April 7, 2018
I’m sure I’m not alone when I say that the series Outlander on Starz was my first introduction to the plight of the Scots and supporters of King James. I went on to read the entire Outlander series and so when I discovered the Jacobite Chronicle series in Nov. 2017, I proceeded to read one right after the other and couldn’t wait for the March release of book 6. Rather than dive right into reading Tides of Fortune when it came out, I went back and re-read the first five...just now finishing book 6.
I grew attached to the characters all over again, and loved the books even more the second time around. The cost of war and remaining steadfast in one’s beliefs held tragic consequences for many and there were many moments throughout Tides of Fortune that I found myself saying, “Please let there be a happy ending.” Our main characters endured so much emotional and physical hardship before, during and after the events of the uprising in ‘45, they deserved closure and as a reader I was rewarded with my own sense of closure for Clan Gregor. (Although I have to admit that it’s bittersweet reading the last paragraph and having to say farewell.).
I grew attached to the characters all over again, and loved the books even more the second time around. The cost of war and remaining steadfast in one’s beliefs held tragic consequences for many and there were many moments throughout Tides of Fortune that I found myself saying, “Please let there be a happy ending.” Our main characters endured so much emotional and physical hardship before, during and after the events of the uprising in ‘45, they deserved closure and as a reader I was rewarded with my own sense of closure for Clan Gregor. (Although I have to admit that it’s bittersweet reading the last paragraph and having to say farewell.).
March 11, 2018
After having literally devoured this final installment of the Jacobite chronicles, I feel that it is only fair to post this review regarding the whole series. From the beginning of the story until its gratifying conclusion, this writer has really evolved in an impressive sort of way! I was never particularly familiar with the said period and I knew nothing of the Jacobite rebellion, yet despite my ignorance I was totally immersed by the story. I absolutely loved the plot and the character development made me care deeply for these characters and somehow be part of the story myself. Which I assure you is very difficult for someone who is not a native English speaker! So, thank you Julia Brannan and I will eagerly await your next endeavor! Highly recommended for historical fiction fans, throughout the world!
March 22, 2018
Wow - what a fantastic ending to a series that had me up all night reading! Every book in the series was grand, but this was was spectacular. From London to the West Indies, to the Highlands of Scotland - the characters are literally helpless in the grip of the "Tides of Fortune", while the reader turns the pages ever faster to see what happens next!
Beth is ever resourceful and brave, and her beloved Alex, when he finds out she's still alive, moves heaven and earth to find her.
Weaving history and romance together, Ms Brannan pens a stunning finale to her series!
Beth is ever resourceful and brave, and her beloved Alex, when he finds out she's still alive, moves heaven and earth to find her.
Weaving history and romance together, Ms Brannan pens a stunning finale to her series!
March 16, 2022
Beth's indomitable spirit prevailed through unimaginable pain and suffering in Newgate and kept her going through the ordeal that caused her to be sentenced to a life of servitude in the West Indies, with little hope of ever getting home. Home was with Alex and she sorely grieved for home.
Grief can be overpowering, bringing us to our knees, a physical pain cutting so deeply that each breath aches more than the last. Such was Alex's pain when he lost Beth at Culloden. Now, with reason to think she's still alive, Alex will keep his promise to find her and take her home.
The Duke of Newcastle knows Beth has loyal friends in high places and he could never get away with having her killed. So he sends her to Antigua as an indentured servant on a sugar plantation where working conditions are even worse than Newgate. She will not survive to defy him again.
But as is often the case with our plans, events don't always unfold as we want and Beth makes a decision that has unintended consequences as Alex is desperately trying to find her.
"Tides of Fortune" wraps up The Jacobite Chronicles in the sixth book and is simultaneously more harrowing and emotionally moving than the first five. That said, there's an awful lot packed into this last book of the series and my hat is off to Julia Brannan for her accurate portrayal of this huge chunk of history. Where the mark of excellence is really evident is the life she's breathed into the characters. Even that gawd-awful Richard Cunningham. I have to believe he's universally loathed by all Brannan's readers. On the whole, the hardships of eighteenth century clan life are fairly potrayed although possibly a wee bit romanticized. Even so, I can't fault Brannan for that. I will admit to a few times thinking Beth is nearly superhuman, being able to withstand the abuse and hardships she endured while maintaining her beauty and keeping all her teeth. Okay, okay but a month of starvation would cost anybody at least a couple of teeth. Nonetheless, I'm saddened to leave my friends in Scotland but I can do it knowing they're happy. Five stars.
Grief can be overpowering, bringing us to our knees, a physical pain cutting so deeply that each breath aches more than the last. Such was Alex's pain when he lost Beth at Culloden. Now, with reason to think she's still alive, Alex will keep his promise to find her and take her home.
The Duke of Newcastle knows Beth has loyal friends in high places and he could never get away with having her killed. So he sends her to Antigua as an indentured servant on a sugar plantation where working conditions are even worse than Newgate. She will not survive to defy him again.
But as is often the case with our plans, events don't always unfold as we want and Beth makes a decision that has unintended consequences as Alex is desperately trying to find her.
"Tides of Fortune" wraps up The Jacobite Chronicles in the sixth book and is simultaneously more harrowing and emotionally moving than the first five. That said, there's an awful lot packed into this last book of the series and my hat is off to Julia Brannan for her accurate portrayal of this huge chunk of history. Where the mark of excellence is really evident is the life she's breathed into the characters. Even that gawd-awful Richard Cunningham. I have to believe he's universally loathed by all Brannan's readers. On the whole, the hardships of eighteenth century clan life are fairly potrayed although possibly a wee bit romanticized. Even so, I can't fault Brannan for that. I will admit to a few times thinking Beth is nearly superhuman, being able to withstand the abuse and hardships she endured while maintaining her beauty and keeping all her teeth. Okay, okay but a month of starvation would cost anybody at least a couple of teeth. Nonetheless, I'm saddened to leave my friends in Scotland but I can do it knowing they're happy. Five stars.
June 22, 2018
Less than enthusiastic.
Several points that I could argue with this author and have irritated my previous knowledge since book one.
First though , this book was tedious and very word bound . I longed for a slave revolt , an eruption , an earthquake a hurricane , anything to give texture . Everyone had to explain every happening in their past two years , good for the clan to hear , but I had heard the story so often and had read the book months ago.Much need to speed read and come down every now and then to find out if whoever is "still at it "
Julia Brannon has an attitude to Charles Edward , the Bonny Prince , quite different from the norm. From all accounts he was a not very intelligent young man , reared to believe literally that he was Gods gift to Britain.
Badly educated if he did not understand the protestant succession and ignorant if he did not know what happened to Charles I or why his grandfather was run out of the country. Then on finding out the truth degenerated into a bothersome drunk hanging round the courts of Europe like a bad smell.
The Highland society before the Jacobite problems was feudal in a more modern world and not organized to form an army and fought as a primitive rabble with the leaders at odds with each other and BPC , no judge of character or warfare unable to lead.
The author sets up a little commune of bothies in the hills which seems really idealic , but quite silly .
Several points that I could argue with this author and have irritated my previous knowledge since book one.
First though , this book was tedious and very word bound . I longed for a slave revolt , an eruption , an earthquake a hurricane , anything to give texture . Everyone had to explain every happening in their past two years , good for the clan to hear , but I had heard the story so often and had read the book months ago.Much need to speed read and come down every now and then to find out if whoever is "still at it "
Julia Brannon has an attitude to Charles Edward , the Bonny Prince , quite different from the norm. From all accounts he was a not very intelligent young man , reared to believe literally that he was Gods gift to Britain.
Badly educated if he did not understand the protestant succession and ignorant if he did not know what happened to Charles I or why his grandfather was run out of the country. Then on finding out the truth degenerated into a bothersome drunk hanging round the courts of Europe like a bad smell.
The Highland society before the Jacobite problems was feudal in a more modern world and not organized to form an army and fought as a primitive rabble with the leaders at odds with each other and BPC , no judge of character or warfare unable to lead.
The author sets up a little commune of bothies in the hills which seems really idealic , but quite silly .
August 7, 2022
Fantastic series that I could not put down!
I read all 6 books so fast! A wonderful series with characters you just love and want to cry and laugh with, but also those characters you will deeply dislike. Adventure, humour, history, deep emotion. It has it all. It also has very well developed plots lines that are unrushed and that link cleverly between books - it takes an excellent writer to think ahead and and create those natural 'of course! -NOW that makes sense!' moments. The fact that it is based around a real time in history that is well researched gives it added gravitas. Sometimes I wanted to skip the more historical parts a bit as I was desperate to know what would happen next to the characters, but I think it helped having it anchored in things that really happened. I would highly recommend this series - even though the last book was SUPER frustrating as you longed for a particular occurrence that took some time to happen! However, I do understand the authors desire to delay and just wish we had more time with the characters at the end, hearing their conversations after all they had endured. This is a really wonderful series that I would highly recommend!
I read all 6 books so fast! A wonderful series with characters you just love and want to cry and laugh with, but also those characters you will deeply dislike. Adventure, humour, history, deep emotion. It has it all. It also has very well developed plots lines that are unrushed and that link cleverly between books - it takes an excellent writer to think ahead and and create those natural 'of course! -NOW that makes sense!' moments. The fact that it is based around a real time in history that is well researched gives it added gravitas. Sometimes I wanted to skip the more historical parts a bit as I was desperate to know what would happen next to the characters, but I think it helped having it anchored in things that really happened. I would highly recommend this series - even though the last book was SUPER frustrating as you longed for a particular occurrence that took some time to happen! However, I do understand the authors desire to delay and just wish we had more time with the characters at the end, hearing their conversations after all they had endured. This is a really wonderful series that I would highly recommend!
May 28, 2025
This was a great series. VERY will researched and each one is a page-turner. I also appreciated the notes at the end of each book which talk about what was historically accurate. I love history and I would recommend these books to anyone who wants to understand about the Jacobite rebellion as it teaches, but in a very fun and engaging way. I also read all of Diana Gabaldon's books and I noted that she liked this series too. The characters are well defined and very likeable (or detestable) as the case may be. I also appreciated the notes at the end of the books, as an example, the last book and slavery. Julia notes that it is sometimes considered just an "American" problem but that is NOT the case. All of the colonial powers were guilty of either trafficking slaves or owning them or both. Many OTHER parts of the world have done the same thing over the past 3000 years - or more. Children should be taught this in school - along with a lot MORE history. I find it embarrassing when some 'man on the street' interviewer asks the average college student who we (Americans) fought in the Revolutionary war and they don't know! Historical fiction is a great way to learn about history and it isn't boring!
March 29, 2020
I immensely enjoyed the six books of this saga!
My primary disappointment is that it is not printed as one volume with an uninterrupted flow of story. Then it would be one of those cherished hardcover tomes sitting on my bookshelves to reread occasionally and eventually pass on to a favorite grandchild. Regardless of this small complaint, the knowledge of Scottish Highlanders as loyal, trustworthy people of character was so well portrayed I am sorry I was not born into a clan. The historical conflicts of royalties of Britain and France are accurate as presented and portrayed; being the backdrop of this saga intricately weaving history seamlessly into the living breath of the story. Presenting profound experiences to display the battle of good over evil throughout the trials and crises in the lives of the story demonstrates everyman’s battle in their own lives. Although some of the portrayals are nearly impossible to believe, mankind’s instinct to survive is greater than we know. Compounded with love it becomes a powerful dive. I appreciated the revelation of how inner thought motivates outward responses.
My primary disappointment is that it is not printed as one volume with an uninterrupted flow of story. Then it would be one of those cherished hardcover tomes sitting on my bookshelves to reread occasionally and eventually pass on to a favorite grandchild. Regardless of this small complaint, the knowledge of Scottish Highlanders as loyal, trustworthy people of character was so well portrayed I am sorry I was not born into a clan. The historical conflicts of royalties of Britain and France are accurate as presented and portrayed; being the backdrop of this saga intricately weaving history seamlessly into the living breath of the story. Presenting profound experiences to display the battle of good over evil throughout the trials and crises in the lives of the story demonstrates everyman’s battle in their own lives. Although some of the portrayals are nearly impossible to believe, mankind’s instinct to survive is greater than we know. Compounded with love it becomes a powerful dive. I appreciated the revelation of how inner thought motivates outward responses.
July 27, 2018
Julia Brannan, what a fab series you have written!
If you are a lover of historical fiction, Scottish history (hello fellow Outlander admirers), and well developed storylines with strong characters, I think you will enjoy this series.
I read Tides of Fortune in 1 day because this series propels you to the end. Ms. Brannan has a subtle, organic way of introducing her readers to each character. You feel as if you, as the reader are in the journey with the characters, #feelingallthefeels.
This series is steeped in love, lust and framed around actual historical events. Brannan's artistry in constructing her sentences, characters and world building make it hard to put the books down and sad when you get to the final page. I love that Brannan wraps up the main storylines (except Sarahs...new series, Sarah immigrates to the Colonies with the MacGregors??)
As a Scottish descendant (my family immigrated/was forced to the 'colonies') in the time this series is set, I loved the historical notes at the end of each book Brannan includes.
If you are a lover of historical fiction, Scottish history (hello fellow Outlander admirers), and well developed storylines with strong characters, I think you will enjoy this series.
I read Tides of Fortune in 1 day because this series propels you to the end. Ms. Brannan has a subtle, organic way of introducing her readers to each character. You feel as if you, as the reader are in the journey with the characters, #feelingallthefeels.
This series is steeped in love, lust and framed around actual historical events. Brannan's artistry in constructing her sentences, characters and world building make it hard to put the books down and sad when you get to the final page. I love that Brannan wraps up the main storylines (except Sarahs...new series, Sarah immigrates to the Colonies with the MacGregors??)
As a Scottish descendant (my family immigrated/was forced to the 'colonies') in the time this series is set, I loved the historical notes at the end of each book Brannan includes.
January 6, 2019
I loved this book (As I have said with all of the other books in the Chronicle series)! I was so excited to find out what was going to happen throughout this book that I could not put it down. Every chapter was a complete surprise. I feel I am very good at predicting events as they unfold in other books I have read, but this is not the case with this series. I was totally unaware as to how everything was going to unfold and how and if the characters will ever see each other again....I was enamored to say the least.
I wish there was another book to this series & I did not want it to end!! (the ending was not disappointing, I am just in love with the charters and the story!)
Also, with all of the books in the series, I have cried, laughed, felt angry, happy, unlike other books I have read before. Julia Brennan has the ability capture the feelings and emotions of the characters like no other. I literally escape in her books as if I am there, the descriptions are amazing!!
I cannot wait to read any other books that she comes out with!
I wish there was another book to this series & I did not want it to end!! (the ending was not disappointing, I am just in love with the charters and the story!)
Also, with all of the books in the series, I have cried, laughed, felt angry, happy, unlike other books I have read before. Julia Brennan has the ability capture the feelings and emotions of the characters like no other. I literally escape in her books as if I am there, the descriptions are amazing!!
I cannot wait to read any other books that she comes out with!
September 27, 2021
The entire Jacobite Chronicles series - all six books are a must-read, page-turning delight. From the first few chapters of book 1 (Mask of Duplicity) you are drawn into the world of eighteenth century England and Scotland, the life of the high as well as the simple folk, and all the whys and hows that brought out Bonnie Prince Charlie and sadly, the end of the highland way of life. From those firey seeds, we see the disapora and destruction of the highlands, and how a few hardy souls continued on. Not all stories give us a full description of the Prince, his followers and all the reasons this came to a head on Culloden Moor. From the history, thru the lives lived and then the lense of history,I came to learn what drove so many to deeds that lead at first to ruin, then to the spreading of the cleverness and intelect that spread round the world and gave us much of our modern world. If you seek a swweping romance that is more than sugary fluff for your brain - this is the series for you
Reb
Reb
November 21, 2021
Sorry it took me so long......the
.....to review . I started with Book 1, could simply not put it down,2 weeks ago. So then Book 2, ummm same thing, etc. etc. etc. This Series is AWESOME ! s
Set at first in Country setting England in the mid 1740s, Scotland and France. We follow Beth first for a bit, then she progresses from Country life,in her not so .loving Brothers unrivaled nasty boy behavior...on to wealthy Cousins to garner advancement for said nasty Brother. It is a rapid fire, page turner you MUST read all 6 Books to catch the wicked ways, the loyalists,the Jacobites, dance in France ,experience Colodon, life ,death and love ,oh lOTS of Love and lots of Blood. It is an immersive and emotional journey you will never ever regret reading. Did I mention it was an AWESOME Series ? Yup, that too ! Thank You Julia Brennan !! You knocked this 6 Book Beauty OUT.OF.THE.PARK.!!
.....to review . I started with Book 1, could simply not put it down,2 weeks ago. So then Book 2, ummm same thing, etc. etc. etc. This Series is AWESOME ! s
Set at first in Country setting England in the mid 1740s, Scotland and France. We follow Beth first for a bit, then she progresses from Country life,in her not so .loving Brothers unrivaled nasty boy behavior...on to wealthy Cousins to garner advancement for said nasty Brother. It is a rapid fire, page turner you MUST read all 6 Books to catch the wicked ways, the loyalists,the Jacobites, dance in France ,experience Colodon, life ,death and love ,oh lOTS of Love and lots of Blood. It is an immersive and emotional journey you will never ever regret reading. Did I mention it was an AWESOME Series ? Yup, that too ! Thank You Julia Brennan !! You knocked this 6 Book Beauty OUT.OF.THE.PARK.!!
October 7, 2022
A great series well written
I read the first book free on bookbub and proceeded to buy the other 5 in the series. I don't think there can be a higher recommendations than THAT.
A sprawling tale tale from the courts of Kings to the Heather covered Highlands, a historical Game of Thrones played by Kings and pretenders throughout the United Kingdoms history.
This particular story covers the period of the Jacobite rebellion through the massacre at Culloden and beyond.
A fine Historical romance that is at times funny, endearing but chock full of History. A worthwhile read.
I leave the story outline to the other reviewers but will say that the writing is excellent, the story flows with every word placed perfectly. At no point do you feel the author was churning out pages which is refreshing. The series is 6 books long because the story telling needs it to be. An excellent read which I'm sorry I've finished.
I read the first book free on bookbub and proceeded to buy the other 5 in the series. I don't think there can be a higher recommendations than THAT.
A sprawling tale tale from the courts of Kings to the Heather covered Highlands, a historical Game of Thrones played by Kings and pretenders throughout the United Kingdoms history.
This particular story covers the period of the Jacobite rebellion through the massacre at Culloden and beyond.
A fine Historical romance that is at times funny, endearing but chock full of History. A worthwhile read.
I leave the story outline to the other reviewers but will say that the writing is excellent, the story flows with every word placed perfectly. At no point do you feel the author was churning out pages which is refreshing. The series is 6 books long because the story telling needs it to be. An excellent read which I'm sorry I've finished.
January 27, 2022
I have loved everything about this incredible series. Julie Brannon's well researched history is brilliantly woven into the fabric of this truly wonderful story that is exciting, empowering, steamy, funny, seggsy - really, all the things! I enthusiastically and wholeheartedly recommend this series!!! Two thumbs, two ears all the way up, all the stars!
The narration is stunning throughout the whole series. Duet is incredibly rewarding when it's done right and this ticks all of the boxes! Every performer brings their A game to flawlessly transition between characters of all ages, varying accents, and the full gamut of emotions throughout the series. This final book is no exception. Will Watt is an aural chameleon and continues to be one of my absolute favorite and guaranteed 1-click narrators/voice performers! If you are on the fence, don't wait - Start this series!!
The narration is stunning throughout the whole series. Duet is incredibly rewarding when it's done right and this ticks all of the boxes! Every performer brings their A game to flawlessly transition between characters of all ages, varying accents, and the full gamut of emotions throughout the series. This final book is no exception. Will Watt is an aural chameleon and continues to be one of my absolute favorite and guaranteed 1-click narrators/voice performers! If you are on the fence, don't wait - Start this series!!
June 2, 2019
Great series, compelling characters, real history.
For some reason I am ridiculously happy for these characters as I come to the conclusion of the book, and of the series. I have grown to love them (except for the one particular character we all feel disgusted by) and I can't start my next book yet as I am still thinking and smiling about this one.
I learned much more about the Jacobites from this book than I did from that other, well-known series set in Scotland (although I do love it still) and feel I understand the politics of the day much better now.
Please don't read this book unless you have started the series from the beginning as it will spoil it for you.
Well done to the author. It was a great read!
For some reason I am ridiculously happy for these characters as I come to the conclusion of the book, and of the series. I have grown to love them (except for the one particular character we all feel disgusted by) and I can't start my next book yet as I am still thinking and smiling about this one.
I learned much more about the Jacobites from this book than I did from that other, well-known series set in Scotland (although I do love it still) and feel I understand the politics of the day much better now.
Please don't read this book unless you have started the series from the beginning as it will spoil it for you.
Well done to the author. It was a great read!
April 30, 2023
Great read, great history
I thoroughly enjoyed the series. Woven as a love story with great historical meaning. I love that it wasn’t just focused on sex. As some historical romances are. I greatly like that it had such accurate historical moments woven into a good tale. I really liked the historical notes at the end and that you really needed to read the story in order so you could really understand how history of the Scottish rising came together. Wonderful tale. It’s hard for me to even express. Came together very well and I’m a real big fan of the books of Diana Gabaldon. I think this is Julia Brannan’s best I have read so far. I look forward to reading more of her books.
I thoroughly enjoyed the series. Woven as a love story with great historical meaning. I love that it wasn’t just focused on sex. As some historical romances are. I greatly like that it had such accurate historical moments woven into a good tale. I really liked the historical notes at the end and that you really needed to read the story in order so you could really understand how history of the Scottish rising came together. Wonderful tale. It’s hard for me to even express. Came together very well and I’m a real big fan of the books of Diana Gabaldon. I think this is Julia Brannan’s best I have read so far. I look forward to reading more of her books.
August 26, 2019
I have read the series of six.
This storyline is very compelling, l became a Jacobite, laughed and cried with Alex an Beth, became friends with Edwin and Caroline, fell in love with Kenneth and all of the MacGregor Clan. I love the way that each book just follows on from the previous, the story revived a lot of the Outlander series for me, and that was my previous go to when I did not have a book at hand, this series will be one l will read again because it was so hard to put down. Thank you for writing these books and giving me so much pleasure in reading them. Now I am off to read Sarah's story!! 😊
This storyline is very compelling, l became a Jacobite, laughed and cried with Alex an Beth, became friends with Edwin and Caroline, fell in love with Kenneth and all of the MacGregor Clan. I love the way that each book just follows on from the previous, the story revived a lot of the Outlander series for me, and that was my previous go to when I did not have a book at hand, this series will be one l will read again because it was so hard to put down. Thank you for writing these books and giving me so much pleasure in reading them. Now I am off to read Sarah's story!! 😊
July 1, 2021
Fantastic series of historical romance - genuine page turners!
I've read all the books in this series and have enjoyed them all immensely. The storyline follows the fateful journey of a young couple and their friends and families as they fight to hold on to each other and keep each other and their loved ones safe during the lead up to and aftermath of the battle of Culloden. The books are full of historical fact cleverly brought into the story and brought to life by this energetic writer who keeps the pace of the books quick tempo without feeling rushed. I am only sad that I've now reached the end of the series.
I've read all the books in this series and have enjoyed them all immensely. The storyline follows the fateful journey of a young couple and their friends and families as they fight to hold on to each other and keep each other and their loved ones safe during the lead up to and aftermath of the battle of Culloden. The books are full of historical fact cleverly brought into the story and brought to life by this energetic writer who keeps the pace of the books quick tempo without feeling rushed. I am only sad that I've now reached the end of the series.
March 17, 2024
Oh, my gosh. I loved this series and I wasn't sure I would. Yes, it evokes Outlander but it's also very much its own creation. The characters are similar to ones in Outlander, but they aren't just copycats, they are unique and warm and real, all on their own. It's been a long time since I felt like staying up late each night to finish each book in a series. Emotionally, I was worn out, worrying about the characters in dangerous situations and also thoroughly enjoying the joyful moments between the characters, especially Beth and Alex. The different books (all 6 of them) made history come alive. Definitely worth reading!
March 22, 2018
Wonderful story- I loved all six books and I am thrilled at the ending. The only thing I would have wanted was for Sarah and Mauri to join the MacGregor Clan so that Mauri could learn about her father and know that she has a clan and aunts and uncles that loves her and that both Sarah and Mauri have support and family. Maybe a stand alone book about Sarah- Duncan's love story, despite the sad ending due to Duncan's death at Culloden but the sense of renewal because he has a daughter. Anyone who loves the Outlander series will love Alex and Beth’s srtidy.
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