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Cree & Dawn #5
Highland Secrets
What secret lurks in the woods and what does it want with Dawn?
Cree receives a message from an old friend, Chieftain Newlin of the Clan Strathearn. He has never asked for help from Cree until now. His people are disappearing, as if snatched away by an invisible hand and he begs Cree to help him.
Everyone fears the myth that wagging tongues claim is responsible for it. There was a time evil rose up in the land and swallowed people whole. Young or old, it did not matter, they simply vanished without a trace. Whispered tongues believed that a crack in the earth allowed demons to escape and they captured the innocent to serve their evil needs. Some believe it is nothing more than a tale to frighten people into submission. Truth or tale, no one knows for sure, all tread lightly, for if the myth proves true the demons will claim more souls to serve them
Cree forbids Dawn from going with him and naturally Dawn disagrees. In the end, Dawn has her way, but this is one time she heeds her husband’s warning to stay close and not venture off on her own. How can she when a man is found dead in the snow-covered woods, his heart missing, another person goes missing, and hoof prints of a creature are discovered not far from the keep.
Cree and Dawn’s love has survived much and it continues to do so as they face obstacles and unexpected situations to discover the truth… or the tale?
Note: Highland Secrets introduces characters from my next trilogy… Highland Myths Trilogy!
Cree receives a message from an old friend, Chieftain Newlin of the Clan Strathearn. He has never asked for help from Cree until now. His people are disappearing, as if snatched away by an invisible hand and he begs Cree to help him.
Everyone fears the myth that wagging tongues claim is responsible for it. There was a time evil rose up in the land and swallowed people whole. Young or old, it did not matter, they simply vanished without a trace. Whispered tongues believed that a crack in the earth allowed demons to escape and they captured the innocent to serve their evil needs. Some believe it is nothing more than a tale to frighten people into submission. Truth or tale, no one knows for sure, all tread lightly, for if the myth proves true the demons will claim more souls to serve them
Cree forbids Dawn from going with him and naturally Dawn disagrees. In the end, Dawn has her way, but this is one time she heeds her husband’s warning to stay close and not venture off on her own. How can she when a man is found dead in the snow-covered woods, his heart missing, another person goes missing, and hoof prints of a creature are discovered not far from the keep.
Cree and Dawn’s love has survived much and it continues to do so as they face obstacles and unexpected situations to discover the truth… or the tale?
Note: Highland Secrets introduces characters from my next trilogy… Highland Myths Trilogy!
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2022
72 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 31, 2025
Rating: 3.8 / 5
Although I didn't realize it when I first read picked it up, this book is actually more or less a set up for the Highland Myths Trilogy series. And, if only I didn't like all of the characters who will be written about in the series--and, also, have apparently read two of the books already--then maybe I would be upset.
As it is though, I was just fine with this.
The plot revolves around Cree answering a call for help from an old ally. Apparently, a "demon" is taking away some of his people, and he needs Cree to help catch the culprit. Dawn, of course, comes along as well, and together they try to work their way through the mystery, following where the clues may lead, even when they don't make sense.
Well, friends, I am happy to say that the mystery is maintained for a long time in the plot, with a lot of clues coming together bit by bit, and yet the plot STILL taking you by surprise once it comes to the climax. I think part of the reason for that is because a lot of time is spent up building the side characters, particularly three women--Tavia, Flora, and Fia--whom Dawn comes across and becomes friends with. This, of course, is because each of these ladies get a romance of their own, but...heck, when characters are good, they are GOOD, no questions asked.
The interactions were fun to get through as well and, honestly, I just love this series so much and it calms me down and relaxes me when I need it the most, so it's a definite re-read. Actually, I like how it leads into an entire trilogy series by this author, because that just gives me an excuse to linger in this world a bit longer!
Although I didn't realize it when I first read picked it up, this book is actually more or less a set up for the Highland Myths Trilogy series. And, if only I didn't like all of the characters who will be written about in the series--and, also, have apparently read two of the books already--then maybe I would be upset.
As it is though, I was just fine with this.
The plot revolves around Cree answering a call for help from an old ally. Apparently, a "demon" is taking away some of his people, and he needs Cree to help catch the culprit. Dawn, of course, comes along as well, and together they try to work their way through the mystery, following where the clues may lead, even when they don't make sense.
Well, friends, I am happy to say that the mystery is maintained for a long time in the plot, with a lot of clues coming together bit by bit, and yet the plot STILL taking you by surprise once it comes to the climax. I think part of the reason for that is because a lot of time is spent up building the side characters, particularly three women--Tavia, Flora, and Fia--whom Dawn comes across and becomes friends with. This, of course, is because each of these ladies get a romance of their own, but...heck, when characters are good, they are GOOD, no questions asked.
The interactions were fun to get through as well and, honestly, I just love this series so much and it calms me down and relaxes me when I need it the most, so it's a definite re-read. Actually, I like how it leads into an entire trilogy series by this author, because that just gives me an excuse to linger in this world a bit longer!
April 11, 2022
Not once during the entire book did I have an inkling of what was going to happen or who was the ultimate culprit! I was so annoyed by Newlin’s narrow-minded superstitions and had to keep reminding myself that this would have been the normal thought pattern of that time. But still-I wanted to smack him! It did take me longer to get through than normal. I’m not sure why, but I think I was just highly annoyed by the “demon” theme and was waiting for Cree to tell Newlin to stuff it and look for the human culprit! I felt that it would have been more suspenseful to have Cree’s warriors find evidence of the mercenary band a bit earlier. Regardless, I couldn’t have come up with this story and it makes me want to reread the first D&C book!! Super glad for the promise of a new trilogy because I am 100% invested in Fia, Flora, and Tavia!!! Looking forward to seeing how Tavia grows in self-confidence and if she can be a strong character to defend others! Oh I can’t wait to read those stories!!! I also can’t wait to read the next D&C to see what happens to Hana & Trent!!
Now, to what I love most about all of Donna’s stories!! I love how in all of her books the female characters are never weak. They may find themselves in situations where their partner comes to their rescue but it is never because the woman is too weak and unable to fight for herself. It’s a true partnership in the deepest of meanings… you save me and I save you…you give me strength and I give you strength… you also allow me to save myself. Never are these relationships one-sided. I don’t think that people always look at romance stories close enough to understand that this is something to emulate. We all have this strength inside of us! Being strong is NOT wrong and needing support is not weakness! Way to go Donna Fletcher for creating characters that highlight the positive qualities of a successful personal and partner relationship!
Now, to what I love most about all of Donna’s stories!! I love how in all of her books the female characters are never weak. They may find themselves in situations where their partner comes to their rescue but it is never because the woman is too weak and unable to fight for herself. It’s a true partnership in the deepest of meanings… you save me and I save you…you give me strength and I give you strength… you also allow me to save myself. Never are these relationships one-sided. I don’t think that people always look at romance stories close enough to understand that this is something to emulate. We all have this strength inside of us! Being strong is NOT wrong and needing support is not weakness! Way to go Donna Fletcher for creating characters that highlight the positive qualities of a successful personal and partner relationship!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2022
Powerful Love Story, A Mystery, and More:
A large cast of characters make up this all-encompassing epic story.
Book 5 brings us ahead a few years with Cree, Dawn, and the Beast.
A lovely refreshing introduction of the main characters sets the stage for another emotional and electrifying story that finds them on a mission like no other.
This mysterious plot thickens as Cree and Dawn discover more pieces of this puzzling and scary mystery.
Many new characters arrive, and the story gets much more intriguing.
Are they there to help or hinder while making this the most thrilling and,
terrifying ending, I couldn't possibly imagine.
Clan troubles, mysterious murder, demons, unwanted betrothal's, heartfelt loving moments, sweet love, heated passion, and the promise of more fantastic stories for this amazing series to come.
Mature Reader Advisory:
Personal Note: I am not an experienced writer and so my review does not
do this story justice. It really is an amazing continuation of the Cree and Dawn
series but yet it can be a stand-alone story.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this story for my honest opinion.
A large cast of characters make up this all-encompassing epic story.
Book 5 brings us ahead a few years with Cree, Dawn, and the Beast.
A lovely refreshing introduction of the main characters sets the stage for another emotional and electrifying story that finds them on a mission like no other.
This mysterious plot thickens as Cree and Dawn discover more pieces of this puzzling and scary mystery.
Many new characters arrive, and the story gets much more intriguing.
Are they there to help or hinder while making this the most thrilling and,
terrifying ending, I couldn't possibly imagine.
Clan troubles, mysterious murder, demons, unwanted betrothal's, heartfelt loving moments, sweet love, heated passion, and the promise of more fantastic stories for this amazing series to come.
Mature Reader Advisory:
Personal Note: I am not an experienced writer and so my review does not
do this story justice. It really is an amazing continuation of the Cree and Dawn
series but yet it can be a stand-alone story.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this story for my honest opinion.
April 10, 2022
There isn’t a story this author has written that I haven’t read. She is at the top of my list, favorite who does Highland romance like no other. She writes beautiful love stories, often with a mystery or two woven into the plot that definitely keeps the reader turning pages long into the night. There are always some really bad guys who cause lots of trouble for our hero and heroine but as always the hero will look out for his heroine and she along with getting into trouble, helps the hero save the day. Cree and Dawn are two of my favorite characters as I never tire of their love story. Theirs is one of a kind and their devotion to each other is very rare. In Highland Secrets Dawn and Cree travel to a friend’s home to help solve a very strange mystery. As usual Dawn goes head long to help those in need while Cree tries to keep her safe. I absolutely didn’t want this book to end but there is alway a happy ever after to get to. I totally recommend Highland Secrets as well as the other Cree and Dawn books. The reader will go on a journey about love conquering evil and a true happy ever after.
November 9, 2022
Not sure how I missed this release in April but I did. This book introduces the 3 women for her next series. The Highlands Myths Trilogy. Three women Tavia, Flora and Fia. These books are stand alone novels but I highly recommend you read this one first before you start HMT. I read the first HMT Tavia story and she often mentions Flora and Fia, for me it was ok who are they talking about where did they come in.
This book was another wonderful instalment of Cree and Dawn's story. Where Cree comes to help and old friend with disappearing clans people and a Demon on his land. Ms. Fletcher again writes her books so well that you can picture prefectly Dawn wanting to box Tavia's fathers ears. Flora rolling her eyes at Torin. Cree having fun with Dawn talking about what's in store for Torin and Bhric. dealing with strong willed woman their married to or soon will be. Another wonderful book I highly recommend.
This book was another wonderful instalment of Cree and Dawn's story. Where Cree comes to help and old friend with disappearing clans people and a Demon on his land. Ms. Fletcher again writes her books so well that you can picture prefectly Dawn wanting to box Tavia's fathers ears. Flora rolling her eyes at Torin. Cree having fun with Dawn talking about what's in store for Torin and Bhric. dealing with strong willed woman their married to or soon will be. Another wonderful book I highly recommend.
April 24, 2022
Highland Secrets by Donna Fletcher
Highland Myth Prequel A Cree & Dawn Novel
Cree has been called to help Clan Strathearn. Dawn refuses to let him go without her. After Old Mary tells Cree that Dawn must go, that it’s essential, Cree gives in grudgingly. Dawn may be mute, but she manages to get into plenty of trouble.
Chieftain Newlin has troubles. Several of his clan have just vanished into thin air, and his people now believe it’s a demon snatching them up and eating them. Newlin has married his daughter, Tavia, off to Lord Bhric, but he’s yet to arrive. And everyone knows that Cree isn’t afraid of anything and can even conquer a demon.
This book introduces many of the characters in the coming stories. As always, I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
**Sexual content
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Highland Myth Prequel A Cree & Dawn Novel
Cree has been called to help Clan Strathearn. Dawn refuses to let him go without her. After Old Mary tells Cree that Dawn must go, that it’s essential, Cree gives in grudgingly. Dawn may be mute, but she manages to get into plenty of trouble.
Chieftain Newlin has troubles. Several of his clan have just vanished into thin air, and his people now believe it’s a demon snatching them up and eating them. Newlin has married his daughter, Tavia, off to Lord Bhric, but he’s yet to arrive. And everyone knows that Cree isn’t afraid of anything and can even conquer a demon.
This book introduces many of the characters in the coming stories. As always, I can’t wait for the rest of the series.
**Sexual content
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
April 12, 2022
Loved it so much! Would give 10 stars!
I so loved Cree and Dawn and their Lovings.🥰🥰
“I love you more each day and my desire for you is even more potent then when we first met. You are as essential to me as a heartbeat. I cannot exist without you.”❤️
Cree + Dawn
Please, who did Trent and Hana assigned to and who's the lucky parents that get to adopted them?
When the story ends, I was disappointed when Cree and Dawn didn't stay for Flora, for Tavia, and for Fia. Because I wanted to know what happened. I realized this story was all about Cree and Dawn's. So I was super glad, when I saw in the end of pages of news announced, "Highland Myth Trilogy" was coming soon! Yay! Thank you Fletcher!
I so loved Cree and Dawn and their Lovings.🥰🥰
“I love you more each day and my desire for you is even more potent then when we first met. You are as essential to me as a heartbeat. I cannot exist without you.”❤️
Cree + Dawn
Please, who did Trent and Hana assigned to and who's the lucky parents that get to adopted them?
When the story ends, I was disappointed when Cree and Dawn didn't stay for Flora, for Tavia, and for Fia. Because I wanted to know what happened. I realized this story was all about Cree and Dawn's. So I was super glad, when I saw in the end of pages of news announced, "Highland Myth Trilogy" was coming soon! Yay! Thank you Fletcher!
April 19, 2022
Cree and Dawn stories continues in this book, but there is also the beginning stories of three other women whose stories will be told in Donna Fletcher new Trilogy. I love reading the continuation of Cree and Dawn’s characters. I also love getting a preview of the new stories to be told and can’t wait to read these new books when published. Donna Fletcher’s books are away a pleasure for me and I love how she interweaves the characters of her stories from one book to another. If you love stories in the Scottish Highlands then Donna’s books are a must read. You will not be disappointed.
November 11, 2022
Well written, entertaining, action packed, witty and attention keeping, a Cree and Dawn story. Secrets of the Highlands are front and center. Disappearing people, demons, abused children to just name a few. Cree and Dawn go to Chief Newlin's to help discover the problems he's having. His daughter , his niece and the so named demon lady are showcased throughout, learning a lot from Dawn. Newlin has named husbands for all three. They will have their story in the Highland myths series. I can't wait.
January 3, 2023
Highland Secrets by Donna Fletcher is book 5 in the Cree and Dawn Series. This continues the story of Cree and Dawn with a few years that have past since they got together. Cree to visit and help Clan Strathearn but Dawn has insisted going with him. Their they try to help Chief Newlin with all the upset that is going on with his people and find the source of what it going on.
Loved this book and series! This book does set us up for the new series that Ms. Fletcher has called: Highland Myths Trilogy.
Loved this book and series! This book does set us up for the new series that Ms. Fletcher has called: Highland Myths Trilogy.
May 15, 2023
I'm sad to see Dawn and Cree's story coming to an end. Though their relationship was absolutely rocky at first, it was their sheer love for each other and fate that made them stay with each other and conquer their relationship. This book was a gateway to the next series "Highland Myths" which was incorporated so perfectly, it's making me want to read Tavia, Flora and Fia's story next.
I do wish the ending wasn't so abrupt. I wanted to see Dawn and Cree reunite with the twins and also
I do wish the ending wasn't so abrupt. I wanted to see Dawn and Cree reunite with the twins and also
April 12, 2022
Hidden Secrets was a great read
The book was beautiful written as always. I don't like to give anything away when I write a review but this had one good mystery attached to it Donna you get better and better with the mysteries. So if you love Cree and Dawn and beast the dog you will love this book.
The book was beautiful written as always. I don't like to give anything away when I write a review but this had one good mystery attached to it Donna you get better and better with the mysteries. So if you love Cree and Dawn and beast the dog you will love this book.
April 15, 2022
Cree and Dawn!!!
Highland Secrets
I can never get enough of Cree and Dawn! The author takes us on another mystery. One that introduces us to characters in her next series! Cree and Dawn must find out who is kidnapping the villagers. It’s not who you think.
Highland Secrets
I can never get enough of Cree and Dawn! The author takes us on another mystery. One that introduces us to characters in her next series! Cree and Dawn must find out who is kidnapping the villagers. It’s not who you think.
April 23, 2022
Great Adventure
Highland Secrets is an intriguing mystery and provides a great deal of adventure in this story. Cree and Dawn are as enjoyable as ever and this book is hard to put down. It’s a definite 5 stars in my opinion!
Highland Secrets is an intriguing mystery and provides a great deal of adventure in this story. Cree and Dawn are as enjoyable as ever and this book is hard to put down. It’s a definite 5 stars in my opinion!
April 25, 2022
Another 5 Star Hit
I have loved all Cree and Dawn's stories. This one kept me on pins and needles and read it straight through. I look forward to new trilogy coming out to learn the fates of Tavia, Flora and Fia.
I have loved all Cree and Dawn's stories. This one kept me on pins and needles and read it straight through. I look forward to new trilogy coming out to learn the fates of Tavia, Flora and Fia.
April 9, 2022
Read this story!!!
Another fabulous story from this author. I am looking forward to the next trilogy from Ms.Fletcher.. Her stories are the best
Another fabulous story from this author. I am looking forward to the next trilogy from Ms.Fletcher.. Her stories are the best
April 18, 2022
Cree and Dawn again
This story was just as good as all the others . Contains intrigue, humor and Highland myths.
Highly recommend all Donna Fletcher books
This story was just as good as all the others . Contains intrigue, humor and Highland myths.
Highly recommend all Donna Fletcher books
July 6, 2023
I love Donna books, Of course Dawn and Cree are my favorites, This book was so good, I kept in suspence waiting to find the bad guy A must read
October 7, 2025
Good
I enjoyed this book and the characters in this book and how they had to let go of the past
I enjoyed this book and the characters in this book and how they had to let go of the past
November 12, 2022
(I'm writing this review after my 3rd read, just before the release of the 2nd book in the Highland Myths Trilogy, The Highland Warlord's Kiss)
Another great addition to Donna Fletcher's Cree and Dawn series! I love Cree and Dawn and have since the very first book. But even better than just going on a winter-y highland adventure with one of my favorite book couples, this book also introduces us to the heroines of the Highland Myths Trilogy, Tavia, Flora, and Fia, as well as Torin, the hero of book 2 who's set to marry Flora. And let me tell ya it definitely wets the appetite for more. After reading this book the first time I couldn't wait for Flora's and Fia's books. I was, of course, also interested in Tavia's book, which was pretty great, by the way, but I think I'll enjoy books 2 and 3 even more. I can't wait to read the entire trilogy.. Or for reading more of Cree and Dawn books.
Another great addition to Donna Fletcher's Cree and Dawn series! I love Cree and Dawn and have since the very first book. But even better than just going on a winter-y highland adventure with one of my favorite book couples, this book also introduces us to the heroines of the Highland Myths Trilogy, Tavia, Flora, and Fia, as well as Torin, the hero of book 2 who's set to marry Flora. And let me tell ya it definitely wets the appetite for more. After reading this book the first time I couldn't wait for Flora's and Fia's books. I was, of course, also interested in Tavia's book, which was pretty great, by the way, but I think I'll enjoy books 2 and 3 even more. I can't wait to read the entire trilogy.. Or for reading more of Cree and Dawn books.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews