What do you think?
Rate this book
Jacobite Chronicles Stories #4
The Highlander's Tale: Alex
1719, the Highlands of Scotland
The Jacobite rising has failed. The Stuart king remains in exile in Italy, leaving Clan Gregor’s dreams of restoring their name and lands unattainable.
In despair Alexander, chieftain of the Loch Lomond MacGregors, hopes that his young but gifted son Alex will one day restore the clan’s fortunes.
Yearning to please the father he loves, Alex embarks on a gruelling education which at times seems senseless to him. He hopes to one day exceed his father, becoming a cultured and influential chieftain, who can win battles both with words and weapons.
Clan life has always been dangerous and even more so for the MacGregors. A series of brutal events strikes at the heart of the family and threatens the clan’s very existence.
Can Alex, still a child, somehow save the clan and those he loves or must he turn his back on them and forge his own future?
Join nearly half a million readers who love Julia Brannan's books. Click the BUY button and find out why Diana Gabaldon describes her books as being 'wonderful historical fiction!'
The Jacobite rising has failed. The Stuart king remains in exile in Italy, leaving Clan Gregor’s dreams of restoring their name and lands unattainable.
In despair Alexander, chieftain of the Loch Lomond MacGregors, hopes that his young but gifted son Alex will one day restore the clan’s fortunes.
Yearning to please the father he loves, Alex embarks on a gruelling education which at times seems senseless to him. He hopes to one day exceed his father, becoming a cultured and influential chieftain, who can win battles both with words and weapons.
Clan life has always been dangerous and even more so for the MacGregors. A series of brutal events strikes at the heart of the family and threatens the clan’s very existence.
Can Alex, still a child, somehow save the clan and those he loves or must he turn his back on them and forge his own future?
Join nearly half a million readers who love Julia Brannan's books. Click the BUY button and find out why Diana Gabaldon describes her books as being 'wonderful historical fiction!'
- GenresHistorical Fiction
634 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2021
142 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
About the author
Julia Brannan
16 books339 followersJulia has been a voracious reader since childhood, using books to escape the miseries of a turbulent adolescence. After leaving university with a degree in English Language and Literature, she spent her twenties trying to be a sensible and responsible person, even going so far as to work for the Civil Service for six years.
Then she gave up trying to conform, resigned her well-paid but boring job and resolved to spend the rest of her life living as she wanted to, not as others would like her to. She has since had a variety of jobs, including telesales, Post Office clerk, primary school teacher, and painter and gilder.
In her spare time she is still a voracious reader, and enjoys keeping fit, exploring the beautiful countryside around her home, and travelling the world. Life hasn’t always been good, but it has rarely been boring. Until recently she lived in the beautiful Brecon Beacons in Wales, but in June she moved to Scotland, and now lives in a log cabin in rural Aberdeenshire, so has new countryside to explore!
A few years ago she decided that rather than just escape into other people’s books, she would quite like to create some of her own and so combined her passion for history and literature to write the Jacobite Chronicles. She’s now writing the side stories of some of the minor characters, and is researching for her next series, The Road to Rebellion, which will go back to the start of the whole Jacobite movement.
People seem to enjoy reading her books as much as she enjoys writing them, so now, apart from a tiny amount of editing work, she is a full-time writer. She has plunged into the contemporary genre too, but her first love will always be historical fiction.
Then she gave up trying to conform, resigned her well-paid but boring job and resolved to spend the rest of her life living as she wanted to, not as others would like her to. She has since had a variety of jobs, including telesales, Post Office clerk, primary school teacher, and painter and gilder.
In her spare time she is still a voracious reader, and enjoys keeping fit, exploring the beautiful countryside around her home, and travelling the world. Life hasn’t always been good, but it has rarely been boring. Until recently she lived in the beautiful Brecon Beacons in Wales, but in June she moved to Scotland, and now lives in a log cabin in rural Aberdeenshire, so has new countryside to explore!
A few years ago she decided that rather than just escape into other people’s books, she would quite like to create some of her own and so combined her passion for history and literature to write the Jacobite Chronicles. She’s now writing the side stories of some of the minor characters, and is researching for her next series, The Road to Rebellion, which will go back to the start of the whole Jacobite movement.
People seem to enjoy reading her books as much as she enjoys writing them, so now, apart from a tiny amount of editing work, she is a full-time writer. She has plunged into the contemporary genre too, but her first love will always be historical fiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
June 16, 2023
I LOVED THIS ONE…but I would’ve loved to know more about how Alex met with his Patron in TJC and what happened in Paris. I hope the author continues writing about this universe because they’re lots of fun.
April 24, 2025
As Julia Brannan continues her epic Jacobites tales, I continued reading them. This one did not disappoint at all. It was great getting to know Alex from his earliest years.
June 14, 2022
Young Alex MacGregor's destiny is all laid out for him. As the eldest son of the clan's Chieftain the future responsibilities weigh heavily on his young shoulders for he'd rather be allowed to just be a boy having fun. However, his father insists Alex must be properly educated in preparation for his future, which is why he and his brother Duncan are inside being tutored instead of outside playing with their friends. When tragedy strikes the McGregor household, Alex is forced to grow up fast, learning to fight like a man and lead by example so that when the time comes for him to take over as Chieftain, the clan will follow him willingly. But he's hoping that won't be for a long time yet as he's only fourteen.
"The Highlander's Tale: Alex" is a spin-off from The Jacobite Chronicles by Julia Brannan and gives the reader an unvarnished look at eighteenth century clan life in the highlands. Brannan tempers the physical hardships with the close-knit community that works together and cares for each other. Alex is a unique character in that he has the gift of total recall, remembering every word said within his hearing and every detail of his surroundings at any given time. That makes for a truly interesting character. Overall, I admire Brannan's writing and I'm impressed by the research she so obviously puts into her books. I think this is the sixth Julia Brannan book I've read. That said, I found the pacing of this book to be uneven. Sometimes the action was galloping along and sometimes it was mind-numbingly slow, which is reflected in my rating. Four stars.
"The Highlander's Tale: Alex" is a spin-off from The Jacobite Chronicles by Julia Brannan and gives the reader an unvarnished look at eighteenth century clan life in the highlands. Brannan tempers the physical hardships with the close-knit community that works together and cares for each other. Alex is a unique character in that he has the gift of total recall, remembering every word said within his hearing and every detail of his surroundings at any given time. That makes for a truly interesting character. Overall, I admire Brannan's writing and I'm impressed by the research she so obviously puts into her books. I think this is the sixth Julia Brannan book I've read. That said, I found the pacing of this book to be uneven. Sometimes the action was galloping along and sometimes it was mind-numbingly slow, which is reflected in my rating. Four stars.
May 29, 2023
This book is a treasure whether read standalone or if the reader is already familiar with the Jacobite Chronicles, but even moreso if you've read them. Reading the childhood of Alex, Duncan, and Angus MacGregor might not sound like compelling reading, but the story is woven so masterfully that even I, as one who isn't even fond of children, could not put it down. The heartfelt descriptions of parents observing the people their children are becoming are fascinating and touching. Knowing the story of the MacGregor brothers as adults from the main book series makes seeing how they grew up an absolute delight.
The narration by Wil M Watt and Mary Jane Wells is truly extraordinary, probably the best narration I've ever listened to. And the addition of a lovely Gaelic lullaby sung by the incomparable Karen Matheson is the icing on the cake.
This is one I know I could listen to over and over, and no doubt will.
The narration by Wil M Watt and Mary Jane Wells is truly extraordinary, probably the best narration I've ever listened to. And the addition of a lovely Gaelic lullaby sung by the incomparable Karen Matheson is the icing on the cake.
This is one I know I could listen to over and over, and no doubt will.
November 2, 2021
Brilliant
This much anticipated book on the early years of Alex McGregor and his brothers (much loved characters from the Jacobite Chronicles) doesn’t disappoint and is well worth the wait.
Once again Julia with her unique gift for storytelling, transports you back in time to the way of life in the Scottish Highlands in the early 16th century, artfully weaving actual historical events into her story( a gift which makes her a great historical fiction author)
It is a gripping, realistic and at times brutal tale, with great insight into human emotion, that you can’t help but become emotionally invested in from first page to last.
This much anticipated book on the early years of Alex McGregor and his brothers (much loved characters from the Jacobite Chronicles) doesn’t disappoint and is well worth the wait.
Once again Julia with her unique gift for storytelling, transports you back in time to the way of life in the Scottish Highlands in the early 16th century, artfully weaving actual historical events into her story( a gift which makes her a great historical fiction author)
It is a gripping, realistic and at times brutal tale, with great insight into human emotion, that you can’t help but become emotionally invested in from first page to last.
February 22, 2022
Wow!!! Even though this is a side book of the Mask of Duplicity series, If this is the only book you read you will love it. An in depth look into clan life and an amazing story of trials, tests and inner strength of young Alex as he charges through life of becoming an adult. It was breathtaking and emotionally moving. I absolutely LOVE the main series and all the characters. This is the type of author that makes you step into the characters shoes and live it with them. I cried, laughed and learned reading her books. I would love to see this as a television series. Powerful storytelling!!!!!
June 12, 2023
~*~ Audiobook Review ~*~ Absolutely stunning performances, well written, truly wonderful to get Alex's history! This brings so much to understanding what made Alex who he is when you meet him in The Jacobite Chronicles. This broke my heart in so many ways with the tragedy and the beauty of the highlanders circumstances. Historical accuracy is once again wonderfully woven into the story. I really loved experiencing Alex, Duncan, Angus, and other characters as they grew into the men and women we meet later. This story was an emotional experience, so be ready to lose yourself in the beauty and the tragedy!
Mary Jane Wells, Will M. Watt, and Karen Matheson deliver wonderful performances in DUET that really bring the story to life. I enjoyed every word and I'm so grateful this author prioritizes quality audiobooks with incredibly talented performers!
Mary Jane Wells, Will M. Watt, and Karen Matheson deliver wonderful performances in DUET that really bring the story to life. I enjoyed every word and I'm so grateful this author prioritizes quality audiobooks with incredibly talented performers!
February 6, 2025
A Great Story for a Winter Day
This episode has all the vivid detail I’ve come to expect from Julia Brannan. She brings history and her characters to life. After reading this book, I understand Alex, Duncan, and clan life much better. I almost wish that I had read the books in chronological order because these backstory books answer many questions from the main series. Almost, but not quite, because that would ruin the reveals that take place in the first two books of the chronicles.
This episode has all the vivid detail I’ve come to expect from Julia Brannan. She brings history and her characters to life. After reading this book, I understand Alex, Duncan, and clan life much better. I almost wish that I had read the books in chronological order because these backstory books answer many questions from the main series. Almost, but not quite, because that would ruin the reveals that take place in the first two books of the chronicles.
November 4, 2021
Another installment in the Jacobite Chronicles series, and this time we visit the early years of Alex McGregor and his family.
Another 5 star book in which we are transported back to the 18th century Scottish Highlands where the author's knack of description really brings it to life. I'm really enjoying this extra series to the main one where we're seeing the real detail of the characters that we've come to know.
This is an exciting addition to the set.
Another 5 star book in which we are transported back to the 18th century Scottish Highlands where the author's knack of description really brings it to life. I'm really enjoying this extra series to the main one where we're seeing the real detail of the characters that we've come to know.
This is an exciting addition to the set.
April 9, 2024
Alexander
I loved this book. It had me going through all the emotions with the characters. I don't like to give much of the story away in my reviews, because I'd rather people read it and find out themselves, but all the stuff Alex, Duncan, and Angus go through is truly heart breaking. I highly recommend this entire series. These books have always had me hooked from the 1st page to the last.
I loved this book. It had me going through all the emotions with the characters. I don't like to give much of the story away in my reviews, because I'd rather people read it and find out themselves, but all the stuff Alex, Duncan, and Angus go through is truly heart breaking. I highly recommend this entire series. These books have always had me hooked from the 1st page to the last.
December 1, 2021
The Amazing Quest For Greatness
This was the tale of Alex, from childhood to manhood, and all of his trials and tribulations along the way. In this book, the reader feels as if you are part if the clan, experiencing all of Alex’s emotions throughout. I hope for a sequel to learn the rest of Alex’s story!
This was the tale of Alex, from childhood to manhood, and all of his trials and tribulations along the way. In this book, the reader feels as if you are part if the clan, experiencing all of Alex’s emotions throughout. I hope for a sequel to learn the rest of Alex’s story!
July 30, 2022
all the emotions
This story is fascinating. I loved the Jacobite Chronicle series and this backstory on Alex, his family, and clan members is nothing short of perfection. I cried and laughed out loud many times during this story. The dialog and her writing style makes me feel apart of the story. Julia Brannan is definitely a new favorite author for me.
This story is fascinating. I loved the Jacobite Chronicle series and this backstory on Alex, his family, and clan members is nothing short of perfection. I cried and laughed out loud many times during this story. The dialog and her writing style makes me feel apart of the story. Julia Brannan is definitely a new favorite author for me.
January 7, 2023
Reading a book by Julia Brannan is always an emotional ride. She has a way to pull you into her story and her characters, she realy is an exceptional writer. Reading about Alwx younger years was a very special treat. This book made me cry, smile and giggle. I will highly tecommend to read any book by Julia Brannan, they leave a lasting impression❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
November 7, 2021
Wonderful!
If you have read the Jacobite Chronicles, you will love the story of Alex. Very well written and very interesting! Highly recommend both the Jacobite Chronicles and Alex's story!
If you have read the Jacobite Chronicles, you will love the story of Alex. Very well written and very interesting! Highly recommend both the Jacobite Chronicles and Alex's story!
November 16, 2021
Wonderful books!!!
I just finishrd Alex and am so grateful for all these books I love them all and really enjoyed the insight and a continuation..am hoping for more! (I almost think Harriet is my new favorite person)
I just finishrd Alex and am so grateful for all these books I love them all and really enjoyed the insight and a continuation..am hoping for more! (I almost think Harriet is my new favorite person)
November 21, 2021
Alex's Tale
A well written book, as we have come to expect from Julia Brannan, bringing to life the character that is Alex MacGregor. This book introduces us to Alex's parents, as well as giving the reader a deeper understanding of the strong bond between the three brothers. It brought to life all the characters we loved in Clan MacGregor who are also in The Jacobite Chronicles...a must read. This book shows us how tough their life was and takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from tears to laughter and then more tears...no spoilers!
A well written book, as we have come to expect from Julia Brannan, bringing to life the character that is Alex MacGregor. This book introduces us to Alex's parents, as well as giving the reader a deeper understanding of the strong bond between the three brothers. It brought to life all the characters we loved in Clan MacGregor who are also in The Jacobite Chronicles...a must read. This book shows us how tough their life was and takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from tears to laughter and then more tears...no spoilers!
December 7, 2021
Another excellent book to accompany the Jacobite Chronicles
Interesting back story to one of the main characters in the Jacobite Chronicles. I can't wait to read the next installment!
Interesting back story to one of the main characters in the Jacobite Chronicles. I can't wait to read the next installment!
May 23, 2022
Highlanders Tale
The book was heartwarming. A family that had been broken and the renewing of that families love and honor to one another. I would recommend this book to anyone. Julie Brennan has done so much research to bring this tale with authenticity.
The book was heartwarming. A family that had been broken and the renewing of that families love and honor to one another. I would recommend this book to anyone. Julie Brennan has done so much research to bring this tale with authenticity.
March 1, 2023
Alex; Highlander
This is an excellent prequel to the Jacobite Chronicles....best read AFTER the series because you wouldn't recognize the importance of the foreshadowing of events. Good read!
This is an excellent prequel to the Jacobite Chronicles....best read AFTER the series because you wouldn't recognize the importance of the foreshadowing of events. Good read!
August 1, 2023
I loved learning more about what made Alex, Alex; and Duncan, Duncan. The Jacobite Chronicles is an incredible series that I highly recommended to lovers of Scottish history, the highlands and its clans.
September 2, 2023
Growing up Alex
Solid background of Alex, his family and clan; lovely but terribly sad at times. Fills in the development of Alex, his siblings and Kenneth and describes their home and clan life.
Solid background of Alex, his family and clan; lovely but terribly sad at times. Fills in the development of Alex, his siblings and Kenneth and describes their home and clan life.
October 20, 2023
Good audio book. Voice actors were very good. Great accents. Very detailed research.. well written. Very close family and clan relationships, specially Alexander the McGregor clan chief and his family. Not like many people thought of the Highlanders as barbarians.
October 20, 2023
3.75 stars. I really enjoyed this back story to Alex. It's a while since I read the Jacobine Chronicles series, but I did really enjoy the detail we were given about life in the Highlands. Really well narrated too.
March 26, 2025
Highlander clan
Alex grows up in Loch Loman. There is much adventure and danger for a child who will one day be the chieftain. His close relationship with his family is contrary to beliefs about the fierce clans.
Alex grows up in Loch Loman. There is much adventure and danger for a child who will one day be the chieftain. His close relationship with his family is contrary to beliefs about the fierce clans.
November 16, 2021
Who could not love Alex.
I have loved all the stories in the Jacobite Chronicles. This is kind of a prequel to them in that we now understand what went into making the Alex we all love.
I have loved all the stories in the Jacobite Chronicles. This is kind of a prequel to them in that we now understand what went into making the Alex we all love.
November 19, 2021
Emotionally Engaging
Not a lot of action but heartwarming. There parts of this story that had me laughing out loud as well as drying my tears. Nicely done story!
Not a lot of action but heartwarming. There parts of this story that had me laughing out loud as well as drying my tears. Nicely done story!
November 25, 2021
fantastic
I felt like I was there! The characters are so detailed u feel like u know them. Can not wait for the next book!
I felt like I was there! The characters are so detailed u feel like u know them. Can not wait for the next book!
June 15, 2022
A great read.
I really enjoyed this book, I had a really hard time putting it down and it left me wanting to read more.
I really enjoyed this book, I had a really hard time putting it down and it left me wanting to read more.
Read
September 8, 2022An OK read. In someways an Outlander wanna be with no time travel. It did keep me engaged though.
November 20, 2022
...incredible depth and factual detail ! The story is engrossing and the author an extreme talent for evoking love. loyalty and historical accuracy incredibly talented . Fantastic
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews