What do you think?
Rate this book
Of Mists and Mountains #1
Highland Hope
Sometimes the one you love is the very one you cannot have.
Lady Eve Sotherby dreams of escaping her horrid life in England, yet she has nowhere to run. So when she spies a posting for a companion in the Highlands, she seizes the chance to disappear. She’s heard tales about the barbaric Highlanders, of course, but no one can be worse than the beast she once foolishly agreed to wed. And never mind that she doesn’t meet any of the requirements for the position: must have no family, must love the cold, and must know the healing arts. Her depraved relations hardly qualify as family, she’ll wear a shawl, and how hard can it be to learn medicinal ways?
Laird Royce MacLeod rules the fiercest clan in the Highlands with an iron fist, but his two children are another matter. Since the death of his wife, they’ve grown quite unruly. Too busy with his clan duties to tend to them himself, he needs someone with both a spine of steel and a kind heart to subdue them. What he does not need—or want—is to get entangled with a woman who desires anything related to soft emotions from him. So when a mysterious woman appears at his holding showing the sort of mettle he requires, he takes her on, despite her two major flaws: she’s English and she’s beautiful.
Soon, Eve finds herself yearning for the one thing her past prevents her from ever having—the honorable but brooding Highlander. And the Scot who was certain he desired only order and obedience cannot explain the undeniable pull to the chaos and warmth Eve brings to his home. But the more they deny their feelings, the more impossible they become to resist, and when enemies and secrets threaten, Eve and Royce may only survive by surrendering to true love. If only it’s not too late…
Lady Eve Sotherby dreams of escaping her horrid life in England, yet she has nowhere to run. So when she spies a posting for a companion in the Highlands, she seizes the chance to disappear. She’s heard tales about the barbaric Highlanders, of course, but no one can be worse than the beast she once foolishly agreed to wed. And never mind that she doesn’t meet any of the requirements for the position: must have no family, must love the cold, and must know the healing arts. Her depraved relations hardly qualify as family, she’ll wear a shawl, and how hard can it be to learn medicinal ways?
Laird Royce MacLeod rules the fiercest clan in the Highlands with an iron fist, but his two children are another matter. Since the death of his wife, they’ve grown quite unruly. Too busy with his clan duties to tend to them himself, he needs someone with both a spine of steel and a kind heart to subdue them. What he does not need—or want—is to get entangled with a woman who desires anything related to soft emotions from him. So when a mysterious woman appears at his holding showing the sort of mettle he requires, he takes her on, despite her two major flaws: she’s English and she’s beautiful.
Soon, Eve finds herself yearning for the one thing her past prevents her from ever having—the honorable but brooding Highlander. And the Scot who was certain he desired only order and obedience cannot explain the undeniable pull to the chaos and warmth Eve brings to his home. But the more they deny their feelings, the more impossible they become to resist, and when enemies and secrets threaten, Eve and Royce may only survive by surrendering to true love. If only it’s not too late…
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2021
857 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Julie Johnstone
96 books762 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...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 18, 2021
This book lacked originality and was very predictable, but that's okay. It wasn't meant to be anything but a light, fun read. I enjoyed the simplicity of the story. Sometimes that's all you need.
I will say that with a little more twicking, this easy read could've been better. Still, it's worth a try.
I will say that with a little more twicking, this easy read could've been better. Still, it's worth a try.
September 23, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
A lovely adventure set in the Scottish Highlands, it sweet, tense, heartbreaking, full of highland warriors with muscles, a few bad guys, and it will possibly bring you to a few tears.
If your up for a wonderful journey, this is your type of read.
Julie wrote a great series a while back called Highlander Vows-Entangled Hearts , it followed a family and their lives and loves, this is the next generation.
The heroine here has a bad marriage to an abusive husband who doesn’t care for her.
The Hero is a Highland Laird who’s wife was untrue.
Both characters find trust something that’s hard to give to another due to their past experiences.
But when all said and done, sometimes no matter how hard you try, you can’t help falling in love.
The two characters of Eve/Abigail and Royce just click together perfectly, and the twins are quite funny in their meddling.
I also love the character of Alban, I feel underneath he’s a nice guy, he’s just put upon, maybe I’m wrong, see what you think.
A great first book in this new series that I loved reading. I’m very much looking forward to the other siblings books.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
A lovely adventure set in the Scottish Highlands, it sweet, tense, heartbreaking, full of highland warriors with muscles, a few bad guys, and it will possibly bring you to a few tears.
If your up for a wonderful journey, this is your type of read.
Julie wrote a great series a while back called Highlander Vows-Entangled Hearts , it followed a family and their lives and loves, this is the next generation.
The heroine here has a bad marriage to an abusive husband who doesn’t care for her.
The Hero is a Highland Laird who’s wife was untrue.
Both characters find trust something that’s hard to give to another due to their past experiences.
But when all said and done, sometimes no matter how hard you try, you can’t help falling in love.
The two characters of Eve/Abigail and Royce just click together perfectly, and the twins are quite funny in their meddling.
I also love the character of Alban, I feel underneath he’s a nice guy, he’s just put upon, maybe I’m wrong, see what you think.
A great first book in this new series that I loved reading. I’m very much looking forward to the other siblings books.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
January 23, 2023
Wanted to.like it more
I really like Julie Johnstone and her stories. They read easy and the heroes are usually faithful and the heroines sweet and I love them. I did really like this one. Eve/Abigail was an innocent married to a man in love with another man so he abused her. It was awful but she didn't give in. She ran away to the laird she thought needed a governess type for his two daughters but he didn't ask for that. His brother Brus, who is a pig and I won't read his story ever, advertised for it but it is a a sweet romance. I liked that the hero believed the heroine when many wouldn't. I liked his sister Elena, who is awesome, and the two girls, even though they were mean to the h. The ending was good but I will not read Brus's story. He was a promiscuous pig, and slept with any one because he thought his first love betrayed him. But I digress. I love JJ and I will read more of this series as long as the heroes aren't like Brus!
I really like Julie Johnstone and her stories. They read easy and the heroes are usually faithful and the heroines sweet and I love them. I did really like this one. Eve/Abigail was an innocent married to a man in love with another man so he abused her. It was awful but she didn't give in. She ran away to the laird she thought needed a governess type for his two daughters but he didn't ask for that. His brother Brus, who is a pig and I won't read his story ever, advertised for it but it is a a sweet romance. I liked that the hero believed the heroine when many wouldn't. I liked his sister Elena, who is awesome, and the two girls, even though they were mean to the h. The ending was good but I will not read Brus's story. He was a promiscuous pig, and slept with any one because he thought his first love betrayed him. But I digress. I love JJ and I will read more of this series as long as the heroes aren't like Brus!
October 2, 2021
3.5 stars
Desperate to escape her abusive husband, Eve Sotherby steals proof of her husband’s treachery against the crown and convinces her guard to let her visit the village to speak to the seer who has arrived with the “Summer Walkers”. Once in town, she comes across a posting for a governess at Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye and when her husband’s men come looking for her, the seer helps her get away by calling her Abigail and directing her to Father Murdoch, the priest who posted the job. She embraces her new identity of Abigail and flees England, praying she never sets eyes on her husband Frederick again and that she will find peace on Skye.
Widower, Laird Royce MacLeod has his hands full with clan matters, cleaning up the mess from his sister’s many broken betrothals and twin daughters that are out of control. He took over the lairdship from his father years ago when his parents left Dunvegan to go to Court and advise the King, and it is a job that he takes very seriously, so seriously he fears that he neglected his late wife and that is the reason she cheated on him and ultimately died. His pain from her betrayal and death was enough to have him swear off remarrying, a vow he has had no problem keeping until he meets Abigail. An attraction she shares, but they each have their reasons for trying to ignore it.
Abigail tries to settle into life at Dunvegan, but it is soon clear that Royce’s 11-year-old daughters Lenora and Lillith, do not want her there and start a campaign to make her leave, which causes Royce to have to intervene and bringing them into repeated contact with each other. Making them want more than either can give, but fate has a plan for these two and while the road to their HEA is filled with bumps and potholes, the final destination promises a love like no other.
This was a well-written novel with a lot going on and ties to the book: When a Laird Loves A Lady, which features Royce’s parents, Iain and Marion! As I mentioned, this book has a lot going and is filled with secrets, lies, action, mischievous (bordering on bratty) twin girls, a jealous ex-lover, spurned grooms, matchmaking siblings who are both suffering from their own broken hearts, a truly evil villain, wolf attacks, a bit of magic, very subdued love scenes (that thankfully avoiding any adultery) and more than one life or death moment before ending in a very lovely HEA. This is the first book in the series, which appears to be a spinoff of the “Highlander Vows- Entangled Hearts” series. I did enjoy the book, but I did feel like it dragged in the middle and was a bit over the top in some parts. Overall, it was an entertaining read, and would happily recommend this title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Desperate to escape her abusive husband, Eve Sotherby steals proof of her husband’s treachery against the crown and convinces her guard to let her visit the village to speak to the seer who has arrived with the “Summer Walkers”. Once in town, she comes across a posting for a governess at Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye and when her husband’s men come looking for her, the seer helps her get away by calling her Abigail and directing her to Father Murdoch, the priest who posted the job. She embraces her new identity of Abigail and flees England, praying she never sets eyes on her husband Frederick again and that she will find peace on Skye.
Widower, Laird Royce MacLeod has his hands full with clan matters, cleaning up the mess from his sister’s many broken betrothals and twin daughters that are out of control. He took over the lairdship from his father years ago when his parents left Dunvegan to go to Court and advise the King, and it is a job that he takes very seriously, so seriously he fears that he neglected his late wife and that is the reason she cheated on him and ultimately died. His pain from her betrayal and death was enough to have him swear off remarrying, a vow he has had no problem keeping until he meets Abigail. An attraction she shares, but they each have their reasons for trying to ignore it.
Abigail tries to settle into life at Dunvegan, but it is soon clear that Royce’s 11-year-old daughters Lenora and Lillith, do not want her there and start a campaign to make her leave, which causes Royce to have to intervene and bringing them into repeated contact with each other. Making them want more than either can give, but fate has a plan for these two and while the road to their HEA is filled with bumps and potholes, the final destination promises a love like no other.
This was a well-written novel with a lot going on and ties to the book: When a Laird Loves A Lady, which features Royce’s parents, Iain and Marion! As I mentioned, this book has a lot going and is filled with secrets, lies, action, mischievous (bordering on bratty) twin girls, a jealous ex-lover, spurned grooms, matchmaking siblings who are both suffering from their own broken hearts, a truly evil villain, wolf attacks, a bit of magic, very subdued love scenes (that thankfully avoiding any adultery) and more than one life or death moment before ending in a very lovely HEA. This is the first book in the series, which appears to be a spinoff of the “Highlander Vows- Entangled Hearts” series. I did enjoy the book, but I did feel like it dragged in the middle and was a bit over the top in some parts. Overall, it was an entertaining read, and would happily recommend this title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
September 27, 2021
Lady Eve Sotherby dreams of escaping her horrid life in England, yet she has nowhere to run. So when she spies a posting for a companion in the Highlands, she seizes the chance to disappear. Laird Royce MacLeod rules the fiercest clan in the Highlands with an iron fist, but his two children Lenora & Lillith are another matter. Since the death of his wife Lara, they’ve grown quite unruly. Too busy with his clan duties to tend to them himself, he needs someone with both a spine of steel and a kind heart to subdue them. So when a mysterious woman appears at his holding showing the sort of mettle he requires, he takes her on, despite her two major flaws: she’s English and she’s beautiful. The start of a new series, which I was so looking forward to as it sees Iain & Marion’s (When a Laird Loves a Lady) children all grown up. I love a series & to now have the next generation is just wonderful. I loved both Royce & Eve who each carried such a lot of baggage. Their journey to a HEA was strewn with obstacles but their adventures took me on a gamut of emotions as I routed for Royce & Eve to find a way to be together. The twins were adorable in trying to send Eve fleeing, as were Royce's siblings Brus & Elena. A very well written, engrossing read, which gave you hope.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 1, 2024
Grabs you from the first page
Quite a ‘heart in your throat’ beginning as the heroine makes a daring escape for her life.
I became quite invested in all the characters right from the beginning. But especially the heroine as she desperately needs to find a place within the world she lands in, through a false promise of employment. Yet employed she does become.
The Hero was pretty darned swoon-worthy. She has lies and secrets. He’s got baggage and lusting desires he has to keep in check. His efforts are humorously picked at by his knowing siblings whose characters we come to appreciate throughout the story.
The action is nearly non stop and kept me turning pages into the wee hours.
For this genre, I really enjoyed the story arc, the characters, and the fact that it is a series where we can revisit and watch the people who inhabit this world go on to become more than just a supporting character. I have really enjoyed this author’s Regency stories and the same great writing and storytelling is here as well. The romance is very well written. And spicy.
Quite a ‘heart in your throat’ beginning as the heroine makes a daring escape for her life.
I became quite invested in all the characters right from the beginning. But especially the heroine as she desperately needs to find a place within the world she lands in, through a false promise of employment. Yet employed she does become.
The Hero was pretty darned swoon-worthy. She has lies and secrets. He’s got baggage and lusting desires he has to keep in check. His efforts are humorously picked at by his knowing siblings whose characters we come to appreciate throughout the story.
The action is nearly non stop and kept me turning pages into the wee hours.
For this genre, I really enjoyed the story arc, the characters, and the fact that it is a series where we can revisit and watch the people who inhabit this world go on to become more than just a supporting character. I have really enjoyed this author’s Regency stories and the same great writing and storytelling is here as well. The romance is very well written. And spicy.
September 29, 2021
From Durham, England to the Isle of Skye, Scotland 1387
Prepare to be immersed into a nonstop adventure that begins on the first page! Julie weaves her magical pen, bringing the the surroundings and characters alive as the story quickly unfolds!
She's running for her life, from a brute of a husband, who has a few secrets, to a position as companion to twin girls, on the Isle of Skye. Her hope is she can hide away and not be found.
He was Laird of the keep, but chaos seemed to surround him (very funny chaos at times!). His twin girls were into mischief all the time, his brother, well.. you will just have to see, and his sister, again, will not give it away!
All she could see was the stories of these barbaric Scots in kilts was true! A tale filled with everything needed to keep the pages turning!! Here is is 1:30 and I have just finished!
With this being the first in a series, I cannot wait for the rest!!
Prepare to be immersed into a nonstop adventure that begins on the first page! Julie weaves her magical pen, bringing the the surroundings and characters alive as the story quickly unfolds!
She's running for her life, from a brute of a husband, who has a few secrets, to a position as companion to twin girls, on the Isle of Skye. Her hope is she can hide away and not be found.
He was Laird of the keep, but chaos seemed to surround him (very funny chaos at times!). His twin girls were into mischief all the time, his brother, well.. you will just have to see, and his sister, again, will not give it away!
All she could see was the stories of these barbaric Scots in kilts was true! A tale filled with everything needed to keep the pages turning!! Here is is 1:30 and I have just finished!
With this being the first in a series, I cannot wait for the rest!!
June 1, 2022
Such A Wonderful Story!
It’s great to keep reading stories of the MacLeod’s. Eve and Royce were a perfect couple. I can’t wait to read the 2nd Of Mist and Mountains book. I loved the characters and storyline so much. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
It’s great to keep reading stories of the MacLeod’s. Eve and Royce were a perfect couple. I can’t wait to read the 2nd Of Mist and Mountains book. I loved the characters and storyline so much. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
October 4, 2021
This romance is filled with intrigue, betrayal, hope and a good dose of fae magic thrown in. There’s a lot of sexual tension, loch and sea swimming, lusty stares while this couple fight the inevitable.
March 16, 2023
I so enjoyed this story, it had everything you could possibly want in a historical romance. I will need to read more of Julie Johnstone's books because I really love her writing style. It also doesn't hurt that the story takes place on the Isle of Skye, a place I am completely fascinated with!!
If anyone needed hope, it was Eve. If anyone needed saving, it was Royce. Escaping her horrid husband, Eve finds herself on the Isle of Skye taking care of Laird Royce's two daughters, not an easy feat since they fight her every inch of the way. Royce is so busy with clan matters, he doesn't have time for anything else and doesn't understand why he can't keep his eyes off the bonny Eve:) I'm still giggling at how many times he needs a frigid dip in the loch! lol With Eve's secrets and Royce's fear of having his heart broken again, it's not an easy path they have to their HEA.
An entertaining and well written story! I look forward to reading other books by this author.
If anyone needed hope, it was Eve. If anyone needed saving, it was Royce. Escaping her horrid husband, Eve finds herself on the Isle of Skye taking care of Laird Royce's two daughters, not an easy feat since they fight her every inch of the way. Royce is so busy with clan matters, he doesn't have time for anything else and doesn't understand why he can't keep his eyes off the bonny Eve:) I'm still giggling at how many times he needs a frigid dip in the loch! lol With Eve's secrets and Royce's fear of having his heart broken again, it's not an easy path they have to their HEA.
An entertaining and well written story! I look forward to reading other books by this author.
September 26, 2021
What could be more horrible than mistreatment from one's father only to be abused by a forced marriage? Your heart will immediately go out to Eve wanting wrongs to be righted. In a desperate attempt at freedom, she fleas her abusive husband and heads to the Highlands where everything she had been told about the Scottish couldn't be further from the truth. And she yearns for the laird she could never belong to. By rights, she's still married to a man who would never see her as anything but a pawn.
Royce had been wronged himself from a previous marriage but as laird of his clan and father to twin girls, that is where his devotion would be. He had no desire to ever marry again and was quite annoyed at the attention his brain was giving this new lass that arrived to care for his girls.
Their road is a rocky one, but one worth traveling. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post a review. It's a really good read with two black moments you'd never see coming.
Royce had been wronged himself from a previous marriage but as laird of his clan and father to twin girls, that is where his devotion would be. He had no desire to ever marry again and was quite annoyed at the attention his brain was giving this new lass that arrived to care for his girls.
Their road is a rocky one, but one worth traveling. I was gifted with an ARC and wanted to post a review. It's a really good read with two black moments you'd never see coming.
November 6, 2021
This is one Fantastic start of a new series, Of Mist and Mountains. I love when a book grabs you right from the start and takes you on a heart-stopping journey as in Highland Hope. It's a action-packed rollercoaster ride Eve is trying to escape her horrendous past. Julie Johnstone weaves a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, secrets, and danger. It's a well-written romance that brims with tension-building twists and turns, remarkable emotions, characters that come off the pages and pull you into their emotional ride that keeps you involved until the very end, sensual passion, laughable chaos and with one fantastic plot that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next in the series.
September 29, 2021
Highland Hope by Julie Johnstone is a wonderful read, sure to keep you in the edge of your seat! I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and characters. I laughed, I cried, I craved more! There was so much chemistry between Eve and Royce and I truly loved how their relationship played out! They were both extremely honourable characters. The twins were a nice addition to the story and definitely made me laugh. Highland Hope was just an altogether well rounded story and I would highly recommend it.
April 25, 2023
Thoroughly Enjoyable!💘
Thoroughly Enjoyable!💘
ADULT Historical Medieval 🏰Highlander🐺🐎🔪💪 Romance💕 and Adventure.
Love a well written historical romance💕!
I got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU
Thoroughly Enjoyable!💘
ADULT Historical Medieval 🏰Highlander🐺🐎🔪💪 Romance💕 and Adventure.
Love a well written historical romance💕!
I got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU
May 18, 2023
Truly Awful
I had to make myself get to the end of this book. Even skipping through pages at a time (only reading dialogue), this book wouldn’t end. The building blocks of the story were strong but the writer uses all her words to unendingly, repeatedly, constantly reiterate the following points 1) Eve is a victim who has been used by her family and husband, 2) Royce is a victim who’s dead wife betrayed him - though it might be his fault because 3) his clan comes first and he is the head of the clan, and he’s responsible for his clan … And, finally (4) these two want each other in the worst way, no matter what is going on around them including Eve being stolen and knocked around by a neighboring clansman, wolves attacking, Eve being riddled with a terrible fever for days, almost drowning at sea in a storm … blah, blah, blah. Oh. and Royce must take himself to swim in the freezing waters of either the loch or the ocean, whichever is closest at any given moment, multiple times a day.
At 85% we finally see them kiss. The book ends with an overly-detailed, ridiculous, insipid wedding night where they go at it like animals while speaking the silliest words I’ve ever read.
Just don’t waste time with this author. This book was truly awful.
I had to make myself get to the end of this book. Even skipping through pages at a time (only reading dialogue), this book wouldn’t end. The building blocks of the story were strong but the writer uses all her words to unendingly, repeatedly, constantly reiterate the following points 1) Eve is a victim who has been used by her family and husband, 2) Royce is a victim who’s dead wife betrayed him - though it might be his fault because 3) his clan comes first and he is the head of the clan, and he’s responsible for his clan … And, finally (4) these two want each other in the worst way, no matter what is going on around them including Eve being stolen and knocked around by a neighboring clansman, wolves attacking, Eve being riddled with a terrible fever for days, almost drowning at sea in a storm … blah, blah, blah. Oh. and Royce must take himself to swim in the freezing waters of either the loch or the ocean, whichever is closest at any given moment, multiple times a day.
At 85% we finally see them kiss. The book ends with an overly-detailed, ridiculous, insipid wedding night where they go at it like animals while speaking the silliest words I’ve ever read.
Just don’t waste time with this author. This book was truly awful.
October 16, 2021
Not much originality
I really wanted to like this book as I've read several books by this author and enjoyed them. Unfortunately, the premise of the story sounded familiar and I should have stopped then and there. If you've read When A Lady Loves A Laird, you'll recognize several of the same plot points and reactions by the characters. Both female leads in the books are either running away from abuse or the promise of it. Both are English. Both know nothing about Scots except ridiculous notions. Both male leads are nursing broken hearts because of their first wife. Both have meddling siblings. Both have members of the clan that want to separate the H and h and who hurt the h. In the second book they hate the English but the H's mother is English and well respected.
This book is contradictory and rather boring. The will he or won't he regarding the H's feelings for the h became tiresome. The author told a much better story in the first book.
I really wanted to like this book as I've read several books by this author and enjoyed them. Unfortunately, the premise of the story sounded familiar and I should have stopped then and there. If you've read When A Lady Loves A Laird, you'll recognize several of the same plot points and reactions by the characters. Both female leads in the books are either running away from abuse or the promise of it. Both are English. Both know nothing about Scots except ridiculous notions. Both male leads are nursing broken hearts because of their first wife. Both have meddling siblings. Both have members of the clan that want to separate the H and h and who hurt the h. In the second book they hate the English but the H's mother is English and well respected.
This book is contradictory and rather boring. The will he or won't he regarding the H's feelings for the h became tiresome. The author told a much better story in the first book.
June 1, 2022
More melodramatic than romance
Needs so much! Characters weak and so.e what sketchy. So many mishaps and she doesn't recover from one before another occurs.
Needs so much! Characters weak and so.e what sketchy. So many mishaps and she doesn't recover from one before another occurs.
October 15, 2021
📚📚📚BOOK🏴REVIEW📚📚📚
Book: Highland Hope
by Julie Johnstone
Series: Of Mists and Mountains,
Book One.
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire Publishing, 302 Pages.
Durham,England
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1387
Eve Sotherby was sold by her abusive father and step-mother just like livestock. As she went from one wicked abuser to another who was a much more aggressive tormentor! This monster just happened to be a black hearted, very rich, English Lord!
Obviously, this led Eve to have severe trust issues with men. However in this case, Eve was sold for a piece of land, as she was being used as a pawn so her father could take advantage of her value which was disgusting! Her father should have been protecting Eve, he knew beforehand all about Frederick’s horrific sadist behavior!
Now all of Eve’s dreams of having a loving husband and children went out the window. As her husband was forced to marry her by Frederick’s father. His father thought he could change his son’s behavior because of her husband’s peculiar preferences, who was his only heir. As he threatened to cut him out of his inheritance where Fredrick would lose everything!
It wasn’t until this day she knew of two secrets. One was a paper he kept in his in a faberge egg that had a list of names in it which was high treason against the crown and finding out the real reason her husband Fredrick has never slept with her. As their marriage was never consummated, and she was still the virgin she was as the day she came into the marriage. Frederick beat her constantly for no real reason, she had no friends and she tried to runaway already and had suffered the consequences.
Now Fredrick’s father was demanding a grandchild so Fredrick was furious! Even Fredericks servants who Eve stuck up for never spoke to her out of fear of their master. Now one of his men felt sorry for Eve who had a daughter himself and introduces Eve to a seer who is with the summer walkers. This gives Eve a rare opportunity to escape this horrific life she is forced to live in.
It was a posting to become a companion for a Laird’s twin daughters in the Scottish highlands. Yet it had a couple other stipulations too, it stated the applicant must love cold weather, have no family, be unwed and have experience as a healer. Eve had no experience in any of it but would lie to get away from her black hearted husband. Of course Eve’s former companion Flossie who was more like her mother, was torn away from her when she became this monster’s wife. She also told Eve how Highlander’s were barbarians and wore nothing under their kilts, to be able to take any woman they desired.
To Eve anything was worth the risk to escape her demonic husband. So Eve decided to use her middle name Abigail and escape to the Isle of Skye. Even though she feared her husband might kill her if he ever found her! So Eve finds the position the problem is the twins are a handful with a father away on clan business so often and a mother is dead. They don’t know how their mother was unfaithful etc. Laird Royce has no idea his brother Brus had been trying to find him a wife so he no longer was responsible for his nieces. The problem is Royce was not expecting this beautiful English rose and another problem is Royce is very attracted to her. Something that hadn’t happene since his dead wife’s betrayal. He also saw Abigail/ Eve’s kindness and how she was kind to his children no matter how cruel his daughters were to her.
The one thing he can’t tolerate is liars and Eve discovering feelings for this widower and his clan.She is nor used to kindness but has so much guilt telling lies, yet she fears if she tells the truth he will send her back to a husband she know will eventually kill her! Both Royce and Eve have self esteem and trust issues, Will these two ever open their hearts. Shall her husband ever find Eve as he needs her to have his inheritance? Plus there is a jealous clanswoman who wants Royce for herself. Will Royce discover all of Eve’ s lies and make her leave his home? Will his daughter’s Lenora and Lillith ever accept Eve as a new companion and teacher? Read and find out in this phenomenal novel.
Julie Johnstone writes a captivating but, highly emotional book that readers won’t be able to put down. Just make sure you have a box of Kleenex nearby. Also this book and new series follows her Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts, series. As this series is the next generation. This book is an action packed, engaging book that is fast moving from start to finish! So hold onto your seat, as it definitely will be both a bumpy but glorious ride. It is definitely a book that Scottish historical readers will absolutely love! I was absolutely blown away by this riveting novel. A book I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a gift copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/review/create-...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/high...
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Book: Highland Hope
by Julie Johnstone
Series: Of Mists and Mountains,
Book One.
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Publisher: DBA Darbyshire Publishing, 302 Pages.
Durham,England
Isle of Skye, Scotland
1387
Eve Sotherby was sold by her abusive father and step-mother just like livestock. As she went from one wicked abuser to another who was a much more aggressive tormentor! This monster just happened to be a black hearted, very rich, English Lord!
Obviously, this led Eve to have severe trust issues with men. However in this case, Eve was sold for a piece of land, as she was being used as a pawn so her father could take advantage of her value which was disgusting! Her father should have been protecting Eve, he knew beforehand all about Frederick’s horrific sadist behavior!
Now all of Eve’s dreams of having a loving husband and children went out the window. As her husband was forced to marry her by Frederick’s father. His father thought he could change his son’s behavior because of her husband’s peculiar preferences, who was his only heir. As he threatened to cut him out of his inheritance where Fredrick would lose everything!
It wasn’t until this day she knew of two secrets. One was a paper he kept in his in a faberge egg that had a list of names in it which was high treason against the crown and finding out the real reason her husband Fredrick has never slept with her. As their marriage was never consummated, and she was still the virgin she was as the day she came into the marriage. Frederick beat her constantly for no real reason, she had no friends and she tried to runaway already and had suffered the consequences.
Now Fredrick’s father was demanding a grandchild so Fredrick was furious! Even Fredericks servants who Eve stuck up for never spoke to her out of fear of their master. Now one of his men felt sorry for Eve who had a daughter himself and introduces Eve to a seer who is with the summer walkers. This gives Eve a rare opportunity to escape this horrific life she is forced to live in.
It was a posting to become a companion for a Laird’s twin daughters in the Scottish highlands. Yet it had a couple other stipulations too, it stated the applicant must love cold weather, have no family, be unwed and have experience as a healer. Eve had no experience in any of it but would lie to get away from her black hearted husband. Of course Eve’s former companion Flossie who was more like her mother, was torn away from her when she became this monster’s wife. She also told Eve how Highlander’s were barbarians and wore nothing under their kilts, to be able to take any woman they desired.
To Eve anything was worth the risk to escape her demonic husband. So Eve decided to use her middle name Abigail and escape to the Isle of Skye. Even though she feared her husband might kill her if he ever found her! So Eve finds the position the problem is the twins are a handful with a father away on clan business so often and a mother is dead. They don’t know how their mother was unfaithful etc. Laird Royce has no idea his brother Brus had been trying to find him a wife so he no longer was responsible for his nieces. The problem is Royce was not expecting this beautiful English rose and another problem is Royce is very attracted to her. Something that hadn’t happene since his dead wife’s betrayal. He also saw Abigail/ Eve’s kindness and how she was kind to his children no matter how cruel his daughters were to her.
The one thing he can’t tolerate is liars and Eve discovering feelings for this widower and his clan.She is nor used to kindness but has so much guilt telling lies, yet she fears if she tells the truth he will send her back to a husband she know will eventually kill her! Both Royce and Eve have self esteem and trust issues, Will these two ever open their hearts. Shall her husband ever find Eve as he needs her to have his inheritance? Plus there is a jealous clanswoman who wants Royce for herself. Will Royce discover all of Eve’ s lies and make her leave his home? Will his daughter’s Lenora and Lillith ever accept Eve as a new companion and teacher? Read and find out in this phenomenal novel.
Julie Johnstone writes a captivating but, highly emotional book that readers won’t be able to put down. Just make sure you have a box of Kleenex nearby. Also this book and new series follows her Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts, series. As this series is the next generation. This book is an action packed, engaging book that is fast moving from start to finish! So hold onto your seat, as it definitely will be both a bumpy but glorious ride. It is definitely a book that Scottish historical readers will absolutely love! I was absolutely blown away by this riveting novel. A book I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received a gift copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/review/create-...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/high...
https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
October 26, 2021
Highland Hope
Of Mists and Mountains #1
Julie Johnstone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Eve Southerby has a horrid life in England and dreams of escaping it, yet there is no where to run so how can she do it? Then she sees a posting for a companion in the Highlands with some very odd requirements, she jumps at the chance to dissappear. She's heard tales of the barbaric Highlanders, of course but nothing could be worse then the beast she foolishly agreed to wed. She doesn't really meet any of the odd requirements for the position, but how hard can it be to wear a shawl for the cold, and learn the arts of healing?
Laird Royce MacLeod rules his clan with an iron fist, but his two daughters are another matter altogether. Since the death of his wife they have become quite unruly. Too busy with clan matters to really deal with the girls himself, he needs someone with a stiff spine and a kind heart to win them over. What he doesn't need or want is to get attached to a woman who desires any sort of emotion from him because he believes he's not capable of trusting or giving that emotion to anyone other then his daughters. So when a mysterious woman appears at his holding who seems to have everything he requires, he takes her on, despite her two major flaws. One she's English and two she is very beautiful.
As time goes by Eve finds herself yearning for the one thing she can't have, the honorable but brooding Highlander. And Royce who was so certain of what he wanted now finds himself questioning these things as he can feel the undeniable pull towards Eve and the chaos and warmth she has brought to his home. When enemies and secrets threaten them both, Eve and Royce may only survive by surrendering to true love, if it's not too late.
Wow this book was absolutely fantastic. I savored every word of it and had a hard time putting it down when needed. The story line was perfect and the characters went so well together it was like they were made for one another. Eve did have a spine of steel or there is no possible way she would have been able to survive everything she survived. Royce just needed the right woman to come along to realize he could love and trust again.
This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to any historical romance reader. Ms. Johnstone I can't wait to see what your characters get up to in the next
Of Mists and Mountains #1
Julie Johnstone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Eve Southerby has a horrid life in England and dreams of escaping it, yet there is no where to run so how can she do it? Then she sees a posting for a companion in the Highlands with some very odd requirements, she jumps at the chance to dissappear. She's heard tales of the barbaric Highlanders, of course but nothing could be worse then the beast she foolishly agreed to wed. She doesn't really meet any of the odd requirements for the position, but how hard can it be to wear a shawl for the cold, and learn the arts of healing?
Laird Royce MacLeod rules his clan with an iron fist, but his two daughters are another matter altogether. Since the death of his wife they have become quite unruly. Too busy with clan matters to really deal with the girls himself, he needs someone with a stiff spine and a kind heart to win them over. What he doesn't need or want is to get attached to a woman who desires any sort of emotion from him because he believes he's not capable of trusting or giving that emotion to anyone other then his daughters. So when a mysterious woman appears at his holding who seems to have everything he requires, he takes her on, despite her two major flaws. One she's English and two she is very beautiful.
As time goes by Eve finds herself yearning for the one thing she can't have, the honorable but brooding Highlander. And Royce who was so certain of what he wanted now finds himself questioning these things as he can feel the undeniable pull towards Eve and the chaos and warmth she has brought to his home. When enemies and secrets threaten them both, Eve and Royce may only survive by surrendering to true love, if it's not too late.
Wow this book was absolutely fantastic. I savored every word of it and had a hard time putting it down when needed. The story line was perfect and the characters went so well together it was like they were made for one another. Eve did have a spine of steel or there is no possible way she would have been able to survive everything she survived. Royce just needed the right woman to come along to realize he could love and trust again.
This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to any historical romance reader. Ms. Johnstone I can't wait to see what your characters get up to in the next
September 5, 2024
This is a good Highlander romance, and a good start to the "Of Mist and Mountains" series. It gets 4 stars from me.
This book can be read standalone, but I believe reading the "Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts" series first would make it more enjoyable. The characters from that series are frequently mentioned/included in this book, and this series is a spin-off from it. The family/friend relationships are complex, so the reader might have a tough time understanding the characters without reading the Highlander Vows series first.
I liked Eve, and loved that she understood Royce's daughters so well. She had lost her mother at a young age, too, so she understood that they were acting out just to get Royce's attention.
I also liked Royce, and how protective he was of Eve, even before they fell in love. Even though she wasn't a member of his clan, he realized she was running from someone -- and he was willing to protect her.
No spoilers here, but I thought it was sad how Eve's father and stepmother treated her. I was glad she found her HEA with Royce.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
This book can be read standalone, but I believe reading the "Highlander Vows: Entangled Hearts" series first would make it more enjoyable. The characters from that series are frequently mentioned/included in this book, and this series is a spin-off from it. The family/friend relationships are complex, so the reader might have a tough time understanding the characters without reading the Highlander Vows series first.
I liked Eve, and loved that she understood Royce's daughters so well. She had lost her mother at a young age, too, so she understood that they were acting out just to get Royce's attention.
I also liked Royce, and how protective he was of Eve, even before they fell in love. Even though she wasn't a member of his clan, he realized she was running from someone -- and he was willing to protect her.
No spoilers here, but I thought it was sad how Eve's father and stepmother treated her. I was glad she found her HEA with Royce.
My rating system is below.
1 star -- Hated it, or did not finish. I usually only give this rating if some of the content is truly objectionable to me, like if one of the main characters does something really awful, and gets away with it.
2 stars -- Didn't like it. This rating usually means that I thought the writing wasn't very good, the editing was terrible, I didn't like the characters, or it had other major flaws.
3 stars -- I liked it, but had some minor issues with it. This rating means that there were minor editing issues, the story needed more character development, it was just too unrealistic, or had some other fairly minor issue. The majority of books I read get this rating – I do not consider it a bad rating.
4 stars -- I liked it a lot. This is a high rating for me, and I rarely give a higher one.
5 stars -- I loved it, and will probably read it again. Very few books are good enough to get this rating from me. The ones that do are usually classics.
February 23, 2024
Thanks to Amazon Prime for the e-copy of this book. It didn't take long for me to recognize the MacLeod family from the Entangled Hearts series. Iain MacLeod is Royce’s father from When a Laird Loves a Lady, and this story about Eve Abigail and Royce is very similar. The only difference is that Eve has already been married to Lord Frederick Sotherby, a man secretly in love with his bodyguard who abuses Eve on a regular basis. No one will help her to escape so she takes matters into her own hands, hoping to escape with the Summer Walkers, a nomadic tribe who are packing up to leave town. Fate seems to be shining down on her and she escapes on a boat to the sound of Frederick yelling her name. Headed to the Isle of Skye, Eve uses her middle name, Abigail, and hopes to disappear forever. Of course, we know that won't happen, but we don't know exactly what will—which provides the tension needed to propel the story forward.
Some readers complained the ending was obvious. I mean, if the guarantee of an HEA isn't your thing, maybe don't read this genre. Personally, I read for the language used, the emotions evoked, and to escape reality. Throw some poetry into the prose and I'll be a loyal reader for life. Okay with language and I will sing your praises. Here an example: “She teetered to the left, and her open palm landed on his thigh to steady her, but her touch unsteadied him.” Julie Johnstone is one of those authors I'll keep going back to read.
Some readers complained the ending was obvious. I mean, if the guarantee of an HEA isn't your thing, maybe don't read this genre. Personally, I read for the language used, the emotions evoked, and to escape reality. Throw some poetry into the prose and I'll be a loyal reader for life. Okay with language and I will sing your praises. Here an example: “She teetered to the left, and her open palm landed on his thigh to steady her, but her touch unsteadied him.” Julie Johnstone is one of those authors I'll keep going back to read.
September 27, 2021
OUTSTANDING!!!!! Highland Hope by Julie Johnstone in the first book in her new series Of Mist and Mountains and what a way to start a new series. Julie does it again. I could not put this book down so be prepared to stay up all night ladies. Julie is one of the best writers of today and I can not even wait for the next in this series, she never disappoints. I found this book easy to read, original, tragic and just so enjoyable but I do have to say the beginning was hard to read but it did held me captive from the start to the very end. Truly an AMAZING read. The relationship between Royce and Eve just sizzled and you can not help but fall in love with them both. Julie writing is so define that I feel that these people could be real and I forget that they are not. This story has an abused wife, a mistrusting Laird, a jeweled egg with a secret inside, twin daughters that like to pull pranks for attention, fae magic, being kidnaped, a loving family, being unfaithful, not wanting to let anyone close, being betrayed, murder, protection, running away, a cruel father and stepmother, betraying the king and clan, greed and finding love with a family. Yes…this book has it all and I am highly recommending that you read this book, you will not be disappointed.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
September 28, 2021
This is the first book in Julie Johnstone’s fabulous new series Of Mist and Mountain, where we journey back to the Isle of Skye and the MacLeod Clan. You need not have read previous books to follow along, although characters are mentioned they have no bearing on this story, it was good to hear how folk have faired in the intervening years though. Our heroine Eve has lived a difficult, traumatic life first with her father and now with her husband. Determined to escape the hardship, she runs away and finds herself at Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye as nanny to two rambunctious, mischievous girls. Our hero is Laird of the Clan Royce MacLeod, he has learned to hold all emotion in and not show weakness or his heart due to his upbringing and betrayal from his wife the girls mother. Although here is immediate attraction between them their pasts prevent it developing. Eve sees what a loving family is and how life is meant to be. Just as she relaxes slightly her past catches up with her forcing her and Royce to admit how they feel and fight for that love. This story shows how escaping a bad situation and beginning again is possible. Although serious matters are tackled there are some funny moments especially with the girls and Royce’s siblings. I highly recommend this book, once you finish this you will definitely want to read Julie’s other fantastic books.
December 6, 2024
I liked the basic story well enough, but it would have worked much better in a later time period— especially since it’s clear that the author knows almost nothing about medieval culture or daily life. I don’t mind when authors take liberties to make their story relatable to a modern audience, but when it damages the logic of the story or the setting, it’s a problem. And the choices the author made were completely unforced— this is a petty example, but there was literally no reason to specify that the FMC riding a destrier other than to show that she doesn’t know anything about medieval households, war horses, or her own FMC’s backstory.
It also has several of my historical romance pet peeves— No, a laird would never have instructed a household servant to call him by his first name in full view of his household. Last names for commoners wouldn’t have had enough utility for a foreigner to be asked about in the 1300s, if said commoner even had one, kilts as written didn’t exist in the 1300s… the list goes on and on. I can’t even get into the bratty children or the primary villain’s homosexuality.
I think it actually speaks highly of the author’s writing that I wasn’t annoyed into quitting and still basically enjoyed myself.
It also has several of my historical romance pet peeves— No, a laird would never have instructed a household servant to call him by his first name in full view of his household. Last names for commoners wouldn’t have had enough utility for a foreigner to be asked about in the 1300s, if said commoner even had one, kilts as written didn’t exist in the 1300s… the list goes on and on. I can’t even get into the bratty children or the primary villain’s homosexuality.
I think it actually speaks highly of the author’s writing that I wasn’t annoyed into quitting and still basically enjoyed myself.
November 8, 2021
Destiny fulfilled
Eve aka Abigail has been mistreated by her father and stepmother then sold to a man who loves another man for a parcel of land. Royce is a Laird who heart has been made cold by the betrayal of his wife Lara he found with another man. Eve still maintains her integrity even when longing for a touch of kindness.
Lies can only hide the truth for so long, Eve husband was so vile I thought he would kill her. There is an evil jealous woman in the keep and the jeweled egg that Eve took is the reason her husband won't stop looking for her.
Eve tries to resist Royce but these two fairly crackle the air with energy between the two of them! When secrets come to light will Royce trust her? Truth is revealed from a man Royce had trusted.
If you like secret passages, devilish twin girls, a jealous shrew and a ship torn apart by lightning then this mesmerising story is for you...
I believe Royce sister beloved who was believed to be dead is next is this series I am sure it will be just as amazing as this one. Wow just wow!!
Eve aka Abigail has been mistreated by her father and stepmother then sold to a man who loves another man for a parcel of land. Royce is a Laird who heart has been made cold by the betrayal of his wife Lara he found with another man. Eve still maintains her integrity even when longing for a touch of kindness.
Lies can only hide the truth for so long, Eve husband was so vile I thought he would kill her. There is an evil jealous woman in the keep and the jeweled egg that Eve took is the reason her husband won't stop looking for her.
Eve tries to resist Royce but these two fairly crackle the air with energy between the two of them! When secrets come to light will Royce trust her? Truth is revealed from a man Royce had trusted.
If you like secret passages, devilish twin girls, a jealous shrew and a ship torn apart by lightning then this mesmerising story is for you...
I believe Royce sister beloved who was believed to be dead is next is this series I am sure it will be just as amazing as this one. Wow just wow!!
Read
November 2, 2023Tim Campbell and his velvety voice.
Also as always, my reviews are less of a traditional review and more of my notes to remind myself of things that I liked and didn't like about each book, because otherwise I will not remember.
OHHHHHH It's the children of the Entangled Hearts Series! It's Iain and Marion's children! Royce was their first born... I remember when he was born in the other series. Bridget and Lachlan were mentioned, as well as their first born, Thor. And Yolanda makes another appearance! I love it!
Her marriage isn't consummated, right? So it isn't legal in the eyes of the law or God? **ETA: I was right!*
I love the Macleod motto: "Hold Fast".
Shouldn't they have made camp AWAY from the dead horse? Wouldn't the smell of that prey attract more wolves, etc. **ETA: See? What did I just say? A darn wolf."
I love that when she cried out in her fever that her room didn't have enough color, Royce hung tapestries in there to bring color.
This is the first I've ever heard of a highlander wearing anything under his kilt! (short brays)
Eve: "He could bring war upon you!" Royce: "Let them." YESSSSSS!
I love that Ragnar put his hands on either side of Royce's head and put his forehead to his to calm him and explain that they are getting close for him to rescue Eve.
Awww, Royce brought Florie to Eve! I love it so much!
I love this whole thing so much. I was heartbroken when I finished the Entangled Hearts series because I felt like there were characters that still needed their Happily Ever After, and after 10 installments, I was sad to see the characters that I've come to love go. Now I get a few more books with them.
Also as always, my reviews are less of a traditional review and more of my notes to remind myself of things that I liked and didn't like about each book, because otherwise I will not remember.
OHHHHHH It's the children of the Entangled Hearts Series! It's Iain and Marion's children! Royce was their first born... I remember when he was born in the other series. Bridget and Lachlan were mentioned, as well as their first born, Thor. And Yolanda makes another appearance! I love it!
Her marriage isn't consummated, right? So it isn't legal in the eyes of the law or God? **ETA: I was right!*
I love the Macleod motto: "Hold Fast".
Shouldn't they have made camp AWAY from the dead horse? Wouldn't the smell of that prey attract more wolves, etc. **ETA: See? What did I just say? A darn wolf."
I love that when she cried out in her fever that her room didn't have enough color, Royce hung tapestries in there to bring color.
This is the first I've ever heard of a highlander wearing anything under his kilt! (short brays)
Eve: "He could bring war upon you!" Royce: "Let them." YESSSSSS!
I love that Ragnar put his hands on either side of Royce's head and put his forehead to his to calm him and explain that they are getting close for him to rescue Eve.
Awww, Royce brought Florie to Eve! I love it so much!
I love this whole thing so much. I was heartbroken when I finished the Entangled Hearts series because I felt like there were characters that still needed their Happily Ever After, and after 10 installments, I was sad to see the characters that I've come to love go. Now I get a few more books with them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2021
Laird Royce MacLeod his children have grown unruly and he need someone to take charge of his two children. Lady Eve Sotherby dreams of escaping a bad marriage to an abusive husband, but she has nowhere to run until she see a posting for a companion and seizes at chance to hide in the Highlands. She decides to take action travels, but can she convince the Laird she’s the woman for the job. Royce can tell right away she’s too beautiful, she’s English, but she’s a sassy minx with a backbone. I love all the witty banter, the twin’s and their antics to try and scare her off and runaway and the sensual attraction between Royce and Eve. Eve doesn’t know what to expect from Royce. She sees he’s a rugged, handsome warrior who loves and takes care of his Clan, his people and most of all his family as their lives make for a very entertaining chaos at the castle. I have voluntarily read and reviewed the great book that has a story so intricately woven romance story.
April 4, 2022
My Grandmother always told me that life is similar to a tunnel. You have to walk all the way through, taking the good with the bad/painful experiences to get to the other side, our destined happiness. This book reminded me of her saying as both Royce and Eve endured many years of a painful, disappointing, existence before having the chance to fight for what their soul really wanted… complete happiness. Naturally, into every life some strife and unexplained/unexpected events happen. It’s how one approaches and deals with the devastating events that become the basis for one’s life. This is a wonderful, well written, story of the ups and downs of the the characters, Royce & Eve. Pain, betrayal, threats, action, hopelessness, and dreams all make an appearance in the story. The characters are so well designed and written that you can’t help feeling as if you know them. Excellent read, highly recommend! 5 Stars ❤️❤️
September 10, 2024
This book was a generation after the last that I read by Ms Johnstone. Like that one, there was a lot of history in this one. So much excitement and drama. I was expecting more of the king drama like the first one, but this had plenty of its own. Laird Royce and the child care taker Abigail/Eve,have instant attraction. Abigail has a secret that could lead to her expulsion from the island and Royce and the twins. Royce has trust issues that lead him away from love and happily ever after.
This story has it all while Royce and Abigail navigate horrors of her parents and alleged husband's treatment of her, her connection to the current king and his and fight to keep the throne. Also Royce challenges of ruling his clan and trying the pleasures of life and love again. Loved this book. I cant wait to read the next book in this series.
This story has it all while Royce and Abigail navigate horrors of her parents and alleged husband's treatment of her, her connection to the current king and his and fight to keep the throne. Also Royce challenges of ruling his clan and trying the pleasures of life and love again. Loved this book. I cant wait to read the next book in this series.
September 28, 2021
Royce and Eve (Sigh!) has such a lovely sound to it. A Scots widower with two twin girls, embittered by the betrayal of his first wife…and Eve, an escapee from the hardships and beatings administered by her father and arranged-for cruel husband. Sounds like an implausible match, right? But the timing of Eve’s escape was just right for responding to an ad for a companion and teacher for Royce’s two young daughters…and so began her adventure on the Isle of Skye. The rest of the story you will need to glean from your own purchased copy…but you will find it well worth your while. Julie Johnstone is an author extraordinaire of Regency and Scottish romances. She will become your go-to author, if she isn’t already, when you’ve read this lovely romantic tale.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews