It’s a clan feud, a war with destiny, and a dusting of magic...
As the first-born triplet and heir of the MacLeod clan, Alastair MacLeod has always known he would return to Dunvegan Castle and succeed his father as Guardian of the Isles. He’s honed his battle skills since his betrothed left him at the altar, stole a precious artifact, and presumably died. Called by his brother, Alastair reluctantly returns home with his soldiers. As he beholds the ghost of Gwendolyn in the tower, his worst nightmare has come true—Gwendolyn’s ghost intends to haunt him.
To save her family’s lives, Gwendolyn Harris was forced by a rival clan to steal the legendary Fairy Flag and leave Alastair behind. She and her siblings have been locked in the haunted tower for five years, kept alive only to play a ghost while the rival clan plans for war.
When Alastair returns, all Gwendolyn wants is to bury herself in his strong embrace. But his presence at Dunvegan means his life is in jeopardy, and Gwendolyn will do anything to keep him safe.
Gerri Russell is the award-winning author of historical and contemporary novels including the Brotherhood of the Scottish Templars series and Flirting with Felicity. A two-time recipient of the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart Award and winner of the American Title II competition sponsored by RT Book Reviews magazine, she is best known for her adventurous and emotionally intense novels set in the thirteenth- and eighteenth-century Scottish Highlands. Before Gerri followed her passion for writing romance novels, she worked as a broadcast journalist, a newspaper reporter, a magazine columnist, a technical writer and editor, and an instructional designer. She lives in Bellevue, Washington, with her husband and three black cats.
⚔️🏴⚔️Book📚Review⚔️🏴⚔️ Book:The Return of the Heir By Gerri Russell Series: Guardian of the Isles, Book #1 Publisher : Tule Release Date: February 24, 2022 Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
The Isle of Skye, l742 Dunvegan Castle
Eight years ago, the entire Harris clan had been viciously slaughtered by the wicked MacDonald clan, the three Harris children Gwendolyn, Samuel and Arabella were the only survivors of this horrific massacre. The MacLeod clan came to aid and assist them to bury their dead and invited them to move into Dunvegan castle and become a part of their clan. After Gwendolyn turned sixteen summers, Laird Norman MacLeod arranged a betrothal between his heir, Alastair and Gwendolyn Harris. Now this was shocking since the old Laird was nicknamed the wicked man, afterall he was not a kind or honorable man that protected his clan. So him doing this orphan girl and his son such a kindness was a bit of a shock to the clan. Norman MacLeod had been cruel, aggressive and abusive to everyone living in his household this included his servants, clan members, children and especially his wife, Janet. Janet was now a ghost watching over her children in the fairy tower known as the grey lady. For this reason that part of the castle was forbidden for anyone to venture into.
It was obvious Alastair and Gwendolyn cared for each other, but right before the nuptials Gwendolyn was abducted by the devious Garrick MacDonald. A clan they had been at war for many many years. Garrick wanted revenge on the MacLeods for killing his parents though the MacDonalds started this feud and had murdered many of the MacLeod kin too. Now right before Alastair and Gwendolyn’s nuptials she was abducted by Garrick MacDonald he made it look like Gwendolyn committed suecide so they wouldn’t search for a body. Garrick also forced Gwendolyn to steal the fairy flag by threatening her siblings Samuel and Arabella’s lives! Gwendolyn ad no choice, but to do as he asked and then chained Gwendolyn and both of her siblings in the fairy tower like animals. It was the one area no one was allowed to enter due because his mothers ghost haunted the fairy tower that the clan called the Grey Lady. Now it has been five years that the Harris children had been living in captivity with no one realizing she is even alive!
Right after Gwendolyn’s disappearance Alastair left his clan as his pain was unbearable. He finally returns after his father’s death and whispers of the Jacobite war coming with the English is coming. So being a guardian of the isle Alastair wants peace as it is a bad time for the clans to be at war with each other. As all the Scottish clan truly need to support one another Excepts the MacDonald’s are relentless and with the stolen Fairy flag does not help the MacLeod warrior courage and self esteem it gave them that extra confidence they needed whether it actually has far power or not.
Alastair was returning home after five years as he left after Gwendolyn disappeared. Now with his father dead and whispers of Jacobite activity as war he must return to his clan as their laird and be the leader he was trained to be. He soon spots an image of Gwendolyn in the tower and soon finds out it isn’t his imagination. He saves her and her siblings though he is filled with guilt but things aren’t the same as he had moved on and has a new betrothed which was arranged for him. Yet he realizes his attraction and feelings have not stopped and only grown. Gwendolyn feels the same but feels she must leave Dunvegan castle. Yet Alastair is confused having two brides especially as Gwendolyn awakens feeling he long thought dead. Will he fight for the woman he loves or let others pick a woman he has no common interest in? Read and find out! Definitely not a story to miss!
All I can say is wow about Gerri Russell’s new “Guardian of the Isles” series is absolutely brilliant! It weaves my two favorite ingredients for reading a Scottish historical novel which is true Scottish history with a spectacular fictional story that swept me off my feet!. Lovers of Scotland and Scottish history will know that Dunvegan castle really does exist as does the fairy flag in the Isle of Skye and the MacLeod clan did reside there too. Plus in1742 the whispers had just begun that war was coming between Scotland and England and many of the clans wanted to put the exiled Stuart’s back on the Scottish throne.
This is one of my favorite reads for 2022 as this book checked all the boxes for me and it has mystery, suspense, paranormal, magic, abduction, deception, hatred, betrayal, history, adventure, romance, passion, and of course love! lt is filled with many surprises too that I won’t spoil for reading this captivating story . A definite riveting, fast-paced, page-turning, nail biting, romantic adventure with unforgettable characters and plotting that blew me away. I read this in one setting as it’s the type of story you can really sink your teeth into. I loved this story so very much and I can’t wait for the next book in this magnificent series!
True historical facts is during the '45 Jacobite Uprising, Clan MacLeod's main branch supported the British Government. Clan MacLeod of Raasay, however, were strong Jacobite sympathisers who fought for the House of Stuart at the Battle of Culloden and helped to hide and transport the exiled Bonnie Prince to safety.
I absolutely and unequivocally highly recommend this extraordinary novel that readers do not want to miss! It is that spectacular and a complete masterpiece in my humble opinion.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy from Tule Publishing. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advance copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.
What a thrilling read! The Return of the Heir the first book in the Guardians of the Isles Series by Gerri Russell has it all with a bit of history, a touch of mysticism, a dab of mystery, a dash of revenge and a splash of Scottish lore all together in a story of romance. So well developed the characters seemed to come off the page alive and mostly well. This is my favorite book written by this author.
The story takes place five years after a tragedy that sent Alastair MacLeod off to hone his battle skills knowing that one day he would come home since he was heir to the MacLeod Clan. The homecoming was full of surprises that lead to a conundrum for him. What is he to do with now having two brides and the British at the door too?
It is a compelling read that is both simple but complex. I highly recommend this to Scottish fans everywhere or anyone who loves a well-written historical romance.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Of wars and conflict, of family and ghostly protector, of love and betrayal. This story has all the elements to keep you engaged and engrossed. A mother's love and protection is not done, however, as there are more members of the family to watch over. Which is good news for readers, because this means more books in the series to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Guardian’s of the Isles, an Exciting New Series from Russell
The Return of the Heir is the first book in the Guardians of the Isles series. Many elements’ readers of Russell’s works have come to know and love are present in this first book. Her signature historical research and deep character development are present as are new elements. The series centers around three brothers who are the guardians of the isles. There’s great character development and each brother has unique characteristics I am excited to see developed as the series unfolds. Additionally, there is a fun folklore piece, a hint of fairy magic, and ghosts adding magical components not to be missed!
Alastair MacLeod, Heir of Dunvegan Castle, is left standing at the altar on the day of his wedding. Fiancé Gwendolyn appears to have had an unfortunate accident leading Alastair to believe she met with an untimely death. The truth however is a bit more nefarious, and this is where the story begins to unfold. Gwendolyn is forced by a rival clan member to steal an incredibly important artifact, the Fairy Flag, leaving her beloved at the altar thinking her dead. Upon unwillingly faking her demise Gwendolyn finds herself and her siblings locked in the tower of the castle she was to serve as lady of for five years. The clan is convinced noises from the tower are ghosts haunting the keep. There are many twists and turns to the eventual exposure of this cruel act and closure of the tale.
Highly recommend The Return of the Heir and I look forward to the additional stories to come in the series!
Extremely well written, full of drama, lost love, romance, action, abuse, feuds, kidnapping, pride, villains and highlanders. Fantastic characters with lots of conflict and personal growth. Alastair is back. He has been gone for five years. He returned as he is the new Laird but also brings along some of his own warriors. When he arrives he thinks he sees his lost love- Gwendolyn , in the tower that has been shut up for years. Gwendolyn and her siblings have been locked up in the tower and chained for years. Alastair and Gwendolyn were to be wed but she goes missing on the wedding day. They find her dress covered in blood near the cliff. What a shock for them both when he finds them alive in the tower. He also talks to the Grey Lady , who is his mother's ghost about what happened. Talk of wars, clans uniting, fighting and what happened in the five years Alastair wasn't around. Gwendolyn and her family are now safe at last for the moment. Has lots of action, steam and some mystery in this story. Will keep you on the edge of your seat. Would recommend to all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the setting for The Return of The Heir, which is the first book in a new series. Dunvegan Castle, on the Isle of Skye, is a worthy choice as the seat of the Macleods. Gwendolyn and Alistair were both strong characters whom I liked and respected. In addition to being an excellent clan leader who favours diplomacy over battle, Alistair is just swoon-worthy enough to haunt my dreams. I wasn’t so convinced by Garrick, the villain of the story. He was thoroughly nasty but at times seemed a little more unhinged than necessary. Despite some spots where the plot dragged a little, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable story and a great start to this series.
I really liked this novel. It had a little bit of everything. There was suspense, villains, clan wars, betrayals, romance, ghosts, and tales of the fairies. The plot was original with a few obstacles to the main couple. Gwendolyn and Alistair were destined to be together. They were a cute couple and both likable characters. Characters were well developed throughout the story, and the McLeod family was entertaining and full of love and loyalty that came through the pages. I always love a happy ending and a bit if a cliffhanger for another love match. I can not wait to read about the other siblings.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Gwendolyn is kidnapped on her wedding day and locked away with her siblings. Her death is staged so everyone thinks she is dead. Alistair leaves for 5 years. Now he has returned, after the death of his father, to take his rightful place in the clan. The Heir has returned with his betrothed. When Gwendolyn and her siblings are found in the tower in his castle he finds himself betrothed to two women. Gwen tells him that she will not hold him to their contract. Drama unfolds and the mystery of his mother and the kidnapping five years earlier. Good read!
A very welcome read. The characters were well written and the movement of the story was very interesting. The mother's spirit was a little hard to take at first, but the more the thought about that time period I can understand including it. I really liked how the sister's character was not able to manipulate her brother into get what she totally wanted. It leave an opportunity for another story line. Secret passage ways were very common in that time period. Meant to protect the home owner it can often backfire.
This first book in the Gaurdians of the Isles series is a captivating and exciting Scottish historical romance that begins in the late 1730s. The story tells of past battles and present conflicts of the clans, a kidnapping, deception, secrets, intrigue, a celestial presence, strong emotions, and issues, and twists that kept me very engaged and entertained. I enjoyed how good won out in the end. I can't wait for the next book. I highly recommend it.
Great story, wonderful characters , beautiful story line. A story of faith and courage. A will to live and survive. Being a prisoner for 5 years. The man she loves finally returns and she is rescued from her prison. Secrets are revealed at last, but they must fight for their future,and that of the Clan. Thank you ♥️
WoW, Alistair and Gwendolyn are the primary characters in this Scottish 1737 tale. A fully entertaining and engaging story of unending love, strength and heartbreak. Add betrayal and secrets for a winner of a story. This author sets the stage for the reader so that your attention is immediately captured and held until the last minute. Can't wait for the next tale.
The pain and suffering that Gwen and her siblings go through is horrible. This story is filled with the struggles of the clans and how they continue to fight and kill each other. Somehow, in the midst of it, love has a chance to prevail. A very detailed story with lots of action fills this tale. I received an advance copy of this and am leaving a voluntary review with my own opinions.
Gwendolyn's survival and care for her siblings is amazing. The connections amongst the characters is wonderful. I love the interplay of paranormal touches and historical alignment. The insight into clan politics adds depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely adored this book. Ash and Chloe were so alike and so different at the same time. Oberon had his circuits full with these two. I love the way that Oberon got them to work together. I can't say enough about how awesome this book is without giving spoilers.
War seems constant as life and danger leave many harmed. Can life become better for various people in spit of a the trouble? Hard to put down the end till the next time.
The Return of the Heir by Gerri Russell This is not the first book I've read from the area. This one is about kidnappings and revenge. Love hearing of the herbs and what they cure. Secret passage ways this sounds just so cool as a kid growing up in the castle. Fairy flag was taken 5 years ago and the death of the woman who was to wed Alastair. They find her dress and blood on the rocks and think she killed herself, jumping off the cliff. Her brother and sister were taken and held captive in a tower, and not released for any reason. All three just want to be set free one day to breathe the fresh air and feel grass under their feet. They are not very healthy but alive with the hold of the gray ghost to keep them going... The family hears what they had done to her and their siblings The flag Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion. Now that Alastair is back from his studies, 5 years later he had moved on and found a woman to marry him...they are betrothed but he's having second thoughts. The bride to be shows up... Now decisions have to be made as to who he wants as his wife while they are both having thoughts if they want to be his wife.... Like conflicts with other clans and comrades and how things are solved. Adult situations. Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.