She runs from a forced marriage. He runs from lies. They both run from love.
"No! Absolutely not! Never! He dictates and drinks until drunk. I’d kill him before our wedding day has ended."
Sorrell let’s her step-brother know that she wants no part of the marriage he arranged for her. Unfortunately, the Clan Macardle is in dire straits and this marriage would prove beneficial. Besides, it’s not like there’s a line of suitors vying for her. She’s a spitfire, though you would never know it with her petite size. Unafraid and strongminded, Sorrell lets nothing stand in her way. Not even the giant of a man who arrives at Macardle keep looking for shelter and food for a couple of days.
John is surprised by the wee woman’s fearlessness, by her foolishness, and by her beauty. She gets herself into more difficult situations than he thought possible. But it is none of his concern. He is there only for a few days, then he’ll be gone. His life has been a hellish nightmare for the past two years. He is looking for a place where he can be alone to think and decide what to do next. He needs to find out who is responsible for all the lies and deceit that has torn his life apart.
John finds himself protecting Sorrell, more like saving her time and again, and Sorrel finds herself relying on him, something she rarely, if ever, does with anyone. Chaos breaks loose when the pair find themselves in a compromising position. But the chaos is nothing to what Sorrell finds out about John’s true identity.
Sorrel must face leaving her sisters, settling in a castle with a husband she’s not sure she knows, with a father-in-law who put a price on his son’s head, all while trying to figure out who wants her dead. Could things get any more complicated? Enter the horde of barbarians. Nothing is as it seems, but Sorrell is fearless… until she faces true fear.
A new series by one of my favorite historical romance authors off to a great start!
Sorrell is the fiery-tempered and adventurous middle daughter of the former clan Macardle chief who passed away and has been replaced by her older, half-brother James. Though Sorrell and her sisters (Willow and Snow) did not know James as children, their mother (also recently deceased) told them to trust him as she believed him to be a good man much like their father was. So when James decrees that Sorrell must marry to improve the clan's precarious position, both financially and with respect to protection from bordering clans), she knows she must do her duty regardless of how distasteful she finds her soon-to-be-groom.
John is a man not only without a clan, but also with a price on his head placed there by his own father who has disowned his only son following rumors that John's mother was unfaithful. John refuses to believe the lies as his mother was very dedicated and in love with his father, and vice versa (at least until his father believed her capable of betrayal because of an alleged death bed confession). As a wanderer, John travels from place to place, never staying very long, and he happens upon a small sprite in a mud ball battle with a teenage boy.... He soon discovers it is Sorrell defending her sister Snow's (who is blind as the result of a recent accident) honor as the little bully threw a mud ball at Snow and laughed at her inability to fight back. When the boy tries to take his revenge on Sorrell, John steps in to save her. Sorrell believed she had the bully right where she wanted him --- his eyes widening as he backed away from her and ran, so she turns around with a strong feeling of satisfaction only to stumble into what can only be described as a giant standing directly behind her. When John asks if he may exchange some food for his working abilities, Sorrell agrees as he seems to be honorable... except for the cuff on his arm indicating he was a (likely escaped) prisoner. John refuses to discuss the cuff only to say that he was wrongly accused, so Sorrell directs him to the cook, then puts him to work on repairing the damaged roofs in the village. John proves to be a hard worker, and also a man Sorrell can't seem to stay away from despite her status as a betrothed woman. John seems to suffer from a similar state when he is around Sorrell, and he struggles to remain honorable as she is not only affianced (though he finds her fiance to be despicable, abusive, and weak), but because he is not the drifter he claims to be, and he does not want Sorrell to be subjected to his current life. Fate has other plans, however, and they are soon unable to remain apart. But what will happen when Sorrell discovers the man she thought to be her kind, strong, and loving John is not who she thought he was? And who is so determined to see "John" dead regardless of his parentage?
What I liked: --- The main characters were very engaging and likeable - they made the reader root for these two to make it and achieve their HEA --- Interesting plot points with several twists and turns along the way --- I appreciated that while Sorrell's character could easily have gone the more angsty route when she discovered that John was not who she thought he was, the author did not draw that out which felt true to the character and made me happy as a person who detests unnecessary angst --- Solid steamy goodness!
What I didn't like as much: --- There were some parts that were a little confusing to follow; for example, the barbarian aspect (I didn't feel like there was enough background on that to understand why they became so involved in the story) --- Still not sure why John's father was so convinced that his wife strayed, especially given the resemblances between him and "John" and the relationship he had with his wife which was supposedly very loving, not to mention the relationship he had with "John" prior to that which was described as very close
Overall, another very solid HR from Ms. Fletcher who continues to deliver an interesting story line with a healthy helping of steamy goodness!
Plot --- 4/5 Main Characters --- 4.5/5 Supporting Cast --- 4/5 Steam Level* --- 3.5/5 Language --- not egregious Violence --- nothing graphic POV --- 3rd
*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild; 2/5 - sensual but nothing descriptive; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere; 4/5 - yes please! ; 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all
Ever since I first read Donna Fletcher, my goal has been to find something that's just like Highlander Unchained. I love absolutely everything about Cree and Dawn, from their personalities to their constant lovemaking, to the pacing of the plot and the hidden secrets, to Dawn disobeying Cree and Cree constantly protecting Dawn--ALL OF IT.
Ever since then, I've been reading Donna Fletcher books with the intent to find something as similar in plot and pacing to that as I could.
Unfortunately, even some of my favourite other reads--Dark Warrior comes to mind--doesn't exactly mimic the formula, and so I was wondering if that was a one-time thing with Cree and Dawn
Well, as Sorrell and John prove....it. was. NOT.
Their story, in terms of the general feel of it and overall formula, is the closest to Cree and Dawn's. We have Sorrell, tiny but mighty, and John, giant and mighty, coming together (and cumming together) in a love story that's interlaced with multiple love scenes and attempts on their lives. Mysteries and secrets are quite abound, and I was surprise with how the author was able to bypass my expectations for who I thought was behind it the entire time.
Everything was entertaining from start to finish, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I absolutely loved the characters themselves and how NOT stupid they are in trusting each other, telling each other everything, etc.
Suffice to say, this will be a multiple re-re-re-read in the future, and that I will look forward to proceeding with the entire series. On to the sensible Willow's story next!
Highlander Of My Heart by Donna Fletcher is book One in the Macardle Sisters of Courage Series. This is the story of Sorrell Macardle and John. Sorrell's step brother James has set in motion a marriage for Sorrell that will help their Clan Macardle, but Sorrell doesn't want to do so. John is out to find the person responsible for his hardships/hell these last few years. On his travels he stops to stay a few days at the Clan Macardle where he finds Sorrell who keeps getting into different scraps and dangers. The more he gets to know her and save her the more she is becoming to mean more to him. But there might be more to John than meets the eye. I can never get enough of Ms. Fletcher's books. I have been a fan of her writing since the start of it. I highly recommend any book with her name on it. Loved this book!
Highlander of My Heart Macardle Sisters of Courage Book 1 by Donna Fletcher
This was EPIC! Donna Fletcher has a new winner with this new series, it hit all the marks and feels for me. Intriguing full of mystery, villains and their cohorts and plenty of sizzle!
Sorrell Macardle is a force to be reckoned with, she’s feisty and doesn’t back down from a challenge. She’s fierce with protecting those she loves and always defends the unfortunate ones. Her forceful nature compensates her petite stature.
Unfortunate for her, her stepbrother James has arrange a betrothal to save their clan and Sorrell wants nothing to do with the man and the marriage, only fate and a miracle can save her.
John has been looking for answers to the lies that ruined his life, looking for a man that might hold the answers, he stops at clan Macardle for some solitude. Instead he comes across a whirlwind of a woman besting a lad twice her size! What’s a man to do but save the woman, and the more he gets to know Sorrell the more she steals his heart. John might very well be the miracle Sorrell has been wishing for. Being caught in a compromising situation finds Sorrell marrying John. What she never expected was her new husband wasn’t who he claimed to be!
Donna Fletcher is a master at writing intriguing plots, she keeps you on edge with very entertaining alpha males and the women that bring them to their knees. I loved loved Sorrell she definitely is no wilting flower she’s her husbands perfect match. The hero is absolutely swoon worthy and their chemistry just sizzled the pages! As always when I pick up a Donna Fletcher novel I always read it in one sitting. I HIGHLY recommend this new book. Can’t wait to read the next one!
I received a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
5 stars ( 5/4 stars Margaret Mallory, Julie Johnstone, Monica McCarty, Lynsay Sands, Donna Fletcher)
5 stars: This book was great, truly awesome, couldn’t and wouldn’t put it down. It hit all my personal markers for a great read...1. smart and engaging writing, 2. Humorous, 3. sexy interactions and 4. stories with family/friends.
I love series around family members or a group of friends. I love the series even more when the author intertwines those characters throughout the book series (it’s a pet peeve when authors don’t do that because what’s the point of the series and introducing the characters if they are not going to interact throughout the series).
Totally engrossed with the development and interest in main characters and secondary characters. Will definitely read the next book by this author.
Laugh out loud...humorous all through the book. The give and take of all the characters are ridiculous awesome.
Movement of the book was a sweet flow. Book writing/conversation super engaging.
I loved the writing around the women empowerment (it wasn’t over the top for me). Badass women rock.
Romantic/sexual content (kissing, oral, love making scenes) was throughout the book. Nothing over the top; again nicely intertwined in the story. 3/5 hotness and steam.
I’m not a huge fan of ‘internal dialogue’ in books. I can only take so much before I start skimming through pages. This book did not have me doing that...the internal dialogue was placed appropriately throughout the book.
Will definitely re-read this book/series to enjoy it again.
Highlander of My Heart by Donna Fletcher Macardle Sisters of Courage Series Book One Sorrell lived in a small clan with her two sisters and half brother. Both Sorrell and her oldest sister, Willow, watched over the youngest, Snow, who had been blinded in a fire. Sorrell was content until the day James announced that Willow and she would have to marry to help the clan. An arranged marriage...not a love match.
John was after the person who had ruined his life. He'd been gone from home for two years but was getting closer to it. Just another village to stay for a few days for some rest and food. Only...it wasn't the usual village. It had Sorrell in it. An independent woman who seemed to get into trouble on every turn.
Life changed quickly in Clan Macardle. Between Sorrell's arranged marriage, her time spent with John, and other happenings. Love Donna's writing. It always keeps me turning the page to see what will happen next. **Sexual content https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Sorrell doesn���t want anything to do with the arranged marriage her brother has set up for her. She is a strong woman who does what she pleases no matter what anybody thinks often landing her in trouble. When a stranger shows up at Sorrell’s home wanting a few days rest, Sorrell finds more trouble than she knows what to do with.
Once again this author has brought another Highlander story to life, which has the reader turning the pages anxiously wanting to know “what happens next”. Highlander of my Heart is pure romance. The heroine stands firmly by the hero’s side, not letting anything or anybody get in the way of her love for this strong, loving man. As well as romance there is a big mystery that needs to be solved and the reader is totally surprised as to who the bad guys are. Also thrown in is some heartbreak so there are a few tears as well. The plot is written so well, flows smoothly with an ending wrapped up quite nicely for a happy ever after. I’m very anxious for book 2 in this series. Another hit for this author who is definitely at the top of my TBR list.
Oh my gosh! I just finished Sorrell and John’s story! Donna has done it again! I can’t put her books down! My first Donna book was The Irish Devil and I still go back to it every now and then to read it again! This book is no different and I’m so glad to be able to enjoy such well written characters and sub-characters. This story grabs you and hangs on for dear life. Twists and turns and an ending I didn’t expect! John is the alpha Highlander that we all want to keep and Sorrell is a strong, resourceful and witty heroine that we all want to be. I like the way John let her be who she is and embraced her rather than try to control her! Well done Donna! I highly recommend this first of 3 books in this trilogy. You won’t be disappointed. I don’t know how I’m going to be able to wait for Wiilow’s and Snow’s stories! Ugh! This my honest and unsolicited review.
Ruddock and Sorrell's story was excellent! I was not sure how I felt starting a new series after Dawn and Cree, but I was thrilled with the mention of my favorite pair in this story. There was never a dull moment in this entire story. I loved how fiery Sorrell was and how strong Ruddock was in turn. They were definitely a perfect match for one another. The plot was amazing as well!
I wanted to give this 5 Stars, but there was an error with a name and an error with Finn's age. He was 18 when he had his first arranged marriage, which lasted a little over a year, then his second arranged marriage was for three years. He then said with Alida he was 19. He had to have been between 24 or older depending how much time lapsed in between marriages.
This was a great start to this new series and I look forward to the next story in this series! I hope it does not take too long. I also hope we have more info about Dawn and Cree!
Enjoyable, if a little mushy. Overall this booked was very enjoyable. The setting was well described, the action was exciting and the mystery was pretty solid. The relationship between Sorrell and her warrior is healthy, if a little mushy. They understand each other and appreciate their flaws (although I felt like he had very little, so maybe not totally realistic). For the first half of this book I could hardly put it down, for the second half I felt it almost, but not quite dragged-which is a little disappointing, since it started so well. This was my first time read a novel by Fletcher, but I am looking forward to the second in this series.
I love the chemistry between Ruddock and Sorrell from the first time they met. They could not be more different in size and temperament but that doesn’t stop the attraction from growing. Sorrell is blunt and wild and impulsive and Ruddock is a loner who enjoys the quiet and holds secrets. He comes to her rescue on numerous occasions. When they are forced to wed their adventure begins. There is a lot of excitement, intrigue, secrets, revenge, and family drama in this book.
I found the first few chapters slow to gain my interest. I put it aside and read another, but since I had received it as an ARC for an honest review, I started reading it again. Wow, it took off and it was difficult to put it down. I had to know what happened next. I should have known this author would not disappoint. Great story, family issues, love, tragedy, revenge and mystery abounds. Highly recommend
Donna Fletcher has nailed it again.... John & Sorrell's story is a must read, can't put down, and leave you wanting to get to the next page. John a mysterious stranger and Sorrell ( one of the Macardle sisters ) who just can't seem to stay out of trouble, what a great pair. They work together to find out who has caused John's troubled past. Can't wait to read the next in the series about Sorrell's sisters Willow & Snow. A Super Must Read!!!!!!
I wonder how she keeps it so fresh. This story has twists and turns, so it is refreshing. I love the main couple. They are solid and loving. They show that to truly love someone you have to have trust. It has a lot of humor. A great read showing heart and love of family. Try this author. You won't ever regret your choice.
An exceptional adventure. It was excilerating and intriguing! The characters were awesome and very very brave. The puzzle they had to solve was not how I expected it to turn out. Great writing!!! Thanks for sharing your story and can't wait to read the next adventure!!!
I enjoyed reading Ms. Fletcher’s new series and I’m looking forward to reading the next one. The character development was well thought out and has a good plot that can be easily followed.
What a great introduction to this author this book is! I love the sisters and in this case Sorrell. Who could not fall for Ruddock?? This is a masterpiece of romance and mystery. I’m sorry it’s ended. Superb.
I really enjoyed the mystery in this s book. Who was John, who was the honest healer, who was loyal. Also, the romance was exceptional. It is easy to envy Sorrell with her great courage.
I’ll definitely read the next books. This one was so refreshing a strong woman and a sweet caring and fierce man. I want to know about Snow story. Also James.
Can't wait for the other two sisters stories! The first one is very good. A strong sassy opinionated heroine and a strong hero who loves that trait in her and not intimidated by it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was an enjoyable read! I would recommend this one to anyone who enjoys Ms. Fletcher's books. Looking forward to the other two sister's books, especially Snow!