Highland Secrets

Secrets of the Heart #1

by Elizabeth Rose

The Lady Captive: 

Being a daughter of one of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown proves to be a blessing as well as a curse for Fia Douglas. Having both English and Scottish blood, she is being fostered in Northumberland per the late English king's wishes. This puts her far from her beloved family and homeland of Scotland. 

When war breaks out between England and Scotland, Fia finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alone with a wounded Highland spy in the late queen's secret garden, she ends up being kidnapped by the Scot and brought back to the Highlands where she is now a prisoner in her own land.

The Highland Laird: 

Laird Alastair MacPherson is wounded and left for dead after being ambushed on English soil. When he stumbles into a secret garden in the woods to find refuge, he discovers a red-haired beauty whose life he's saved several years earlier. She is inclined to help him so she can pay back the favor. But when his life is threatened once again, he is backed into a corner and has no choice but to use her as a hostage to escape.

Can a rugged Highlander love a lass whose secrets threaten to ruin his one chance at redemption? And will a woman who has fallen in love with her captor, be able to betray him if necessary?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Medieval, Amazon, Historical Fiction, Adventure

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 20, 2022

About the author

Elizabeth Rose is the author of medieval, paranormal, fantasy and contemporary novels. While based on romance, her novels have complex plots, action and suspense. She loves writing bad boy tortured heroes and empowered feisty heroines.

Her books have won rave reviews, and been seen on The History Channel as well as Wild Chicago. Elizabeth's books have won and been finalists in many contests. Here is a partial list:

Highland Spirit - Highland Chronicles WINNER of the Raven Award.
Bedeviled - Portals of Destiny, WINNER Creme de la Cover Contest
Beguiled - Portals of Destiny, WINNER - Creme de la Cover Contest

RONE Award finalists include:
Doubting Thomas - Bad Boys of Sweetwater
Highland Steel - Highland Chronicles
Tristan - Pirate Lords
Igniting Andrew - Bad Boys of Sweetwater
Highland Secrets - Secrets of the Heart
Seductive Secrets - Secrets of the Heart
Forgotten Secrets - all Secrets of the Heart
Summer's Reign - Seasons of Fortitude

Kindle Book Review Awards finalist and semi-finalist:
Highland Secrets
Forgotten Secrets

International Digital Award finalist:
Highland Spring - Seasons of Fortitude

Golden Palm Finalist:
Mary, Mary - Once Upon a Rhyme

Raven Awards Best Cover finalist:
May Queen - Holiday Knights

Raven Awards Runner-Up:
Lady and the Wolf - Tangled Tales

Books and Benches Reviewer's Choice:
Restless Sea Lord - Legendary Bastards of the Crown

Sapphire Award Finalist:
Kyros' Secret - Greek Myth Fantasy Series

Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice:
Thief of Olympus - Greek Myth Fantasy Series

Seen on the History Channel:
The Oracle of Delphi - Greek Myth Fantasy Series

And More!

Elizabeth is known for her many series which include:

Below the Salt Series
Highland Outcasts
Portals of Destiny
Legacy of the Blade
Daughters of the Dagger
Elemental Magick Series
Bad Boys of Sweetwater: Tarnished Saints Series Greek Myth Fantasy Series
MadMan MacKeefe Series
Legendary Bastards of the Crown
Seasons of Fortitude
Secrets of the Heart
Second in Command
Pirate Lords
Highland Chronicles
Barons of the Cinque Ports
Tangled Tales Once Upon a Rhyme
Holiday Knights
Dark Encounters
Cowboys of the Old West
Working Man Series, and more!

Someday Elizabeth hopes to visit the castles of Scotland and England personally. However, she has been to the jungles of Peru and Machu Picchu which inspired her novels, Curse of the Condor and Bistro Bachelor.

Visit her website to view her latest books and to read excerpts of her work. http://elizabethrosenovels.com.

Reviews

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

By Elizabeth Rose

Fia Douglas is the first born daughter of one of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown and this proves to be not only a blessing, but a curse for her as well. She has both English and Scottish bood and is being fostered in Northumberland per the late king's wishes. This puts her far from her beloved family and homeland of Scotland which saddens her.

When the war breaks out between England and Scotland, Fia finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alone with a wounded Highland spy in the late queens secret garden, she ends up being kidnapped by the Scot and brought back to the highlands where she is now a prisoner in her own land.

Laird Alasdair MacPherson is wounded and left for dead after being ambushed on English soil. When he stumbles into a secret garden to find refuge, he discovers a red haired beauty who's life he had saved a few years earlier. She is inclined to help him just so that she can pay back the favor. But when once again his life is threatened and he has no choice but to use her as a hostage to escape.

Will he be able to take this lass and use her as a trade for his father? Can a rugged highlander love a lass whose secrets threaten to ruin his one chance at redemption? And will a woman who has fallen in love with her captor, be able to betray him if necessary?

This really is strong woman series and Fia is one strong lady.
Elizabeth Rose did a fabulous job with this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone. Ms. Rose's books just ooze talent and always have what I call the Elizabeth Rose stamp on them.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/28/2019)! 🎁

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highland Secrets (Secrets of the Heart Book 1) by the talented Elizabeth Rose is a wonderful beginning to what promises to be a fantastic new series. Quick read, Scottish Historical Romance with PNR elements. I am greatly anticipating the rest of this series!

Fia Douglas, elderest daughter to one of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown and Laird Alastair MacPherson, Highland Spy makes for an exciting read. What a great couple, both are engaging, passionate and charming with challenges and secrets. Once again, Ms. Rose has writer a well crafted story with well developed characters, who will definitely still your heart. As they struggle to make sense of their budding relationship they also face danger, challenges and struggles. Scotland and England are in turmoil. Fia and Aldstair are caught in the angst and turmoil in more ways than one.
Powerful, compelling and intriguing with surprises and twists and turns.
I enjoyed this mesmerizing story, the relationship between Fia and Aldstair and the mixture of suspense, secrets, magic and romance makes for some exciting reading. Strongly recommended for fans of Scottish Romance, new series, Scotland, brawn Highlanders and feisty ladies.
Another fantastic and page turning Scottish Romance read!

Rating: 4.5

[Karen Janet · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not romance.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Rose continues with a new series in her amazing writing style about the three eldest daughters of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown brothers. This one is about Fia Douglas, who is half English and half Scottish blood. Both her and the two other girls are being fostered away from their families per the decree of the King. Throw in a sprinkle of magic and the story quickly unfolds. Fia comes upon wounded Laird Alastair MacPherson, who is a highland spy and realizes she is someone he saved years ago. Fia tries to help him but events start happening and she ends up being a hostage of Alastair's so that he can gain what he seeks.
As attraction mounts between the two, decisions have to be made and challenges met. This story has a little of it all. Suspense, intrigue, hidden secrets and magical moments that makes an exciting story not to be missed. I cannot wait for the next in this series! Another great fast paced story that will just make you sigh all the way through!

[Cyrene Olson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in a new series and it starts the series off very well. This book really moves along well after the events in the blurb. Alastair is finding it hard to ignore his growing feelings for his captive. But when he discovers her heritage, she becomes the pawn that will free his father from a rival clan. But he’s finding it harder and harder to let Fia go.

Fia, struggles with the idea that the Scots and English are going to war, and uses her training as a member of the Followers of the Secret Heart to try to save lives. But lying to Alastair is starting to eat away at her as her feelings for him grow.

A nice original storyline, that brings tension, secrets, lies, betrayal and love. An entertaining read from cover to cover. And the reader will fall in love with Cerberus. Reviewed by Cyrene
4 1/2 Stars

[Lauralee Wiltsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and reading another Bastards of the crown series. I won this book in a contest and I'm glad that I decided to read it first. I like it when the female characters are just as strong as the male characters. But I must confess that even though women were treated a second-class citizens, it still bothers me.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0

The chemistry between Fia and Alistair starts the second they lay eyes on one another and intensifies the more time they spent together.

Read full review in the 2019 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Fia to me seemed like a romantic very different from her sisters. They discover a secret garden and why they all got the same brooch before the king died. She meets a laird who is wounded in the garden, their story goes from there.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Publisher's Description:

Being a daughter of one of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown proves to be a blessing as well as a curse for Fia Douglas. Having both English and Scottish blood, she is being fostered in Northumberland per the late English king’s wishes. This puts her far from her beloved family and homeland of Scotland.

When war breaks out between England and Scotland, Fia finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alone with a wounded Highland spy in the late queen’s secret garden, she ends up being kidnapped by the Scot and brought back to the Highlands where she is now a prisoner in her own land.

The Highland Laird:

Laird Alastair MacPherson is wounded and left for dead after being ambushed on English soil. When he stumbles into a secret garden in the woods to find refuge, he discovers a red-haired beauty whose life he’s saved several years earlier. She is inclined to help him so she can pay back the favor. But when his life is threatened once again, he is backed into a corner and has no choice but to use her as a hostage to escape.

Can a rugged Highlander love a lass whose secrets threaten to ruin his one chance at redemption? And will a woman who has fallen in love with her captor, be able to betray him if necessary?

My Thoughts:

As expected from a Elizabeth Rose book it is entertaining. With a bit of magic and a hint of betrayal this read is a must for Elizabeth Rose fans.
This first in a new series book is tied to the Legendary Bastards of the Crown books but can be enjoyed even if you have never read that series.

Don't miss book #1 in Secrets of the Heart series. It is an exciting way to start this new series and I look forward to the next installment.

I gave this book 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 2.5 of 5.0 flames. Magic and intrigue make up this can't put down tale.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three cousins, granddaughters of King Edward, the eldest daughter of the Legendary Bastards of the Crown are called to the king’s deathbed to receive a bequest from Queen Philipa. The girls are allowed to choose one of the late queen’s crowns as a gift and given a heart pendant, the symbol of the special group of women known as the Followers of the Secret Heart. Each of the girls is trained to use their talents to become strong and powerful women.

Highland Secrets is the first book in Elizabeth Rose’s new Secrets of the Heart series.
The story of Fia Douglas and Alastair MacPherson is an exciting adventure and a wonderful love story. It is filled with secrets, intrigue, mystery, twists and turns, surprises, and a little magic. Fia and Alastair are intelligent, strong, and focused; each determined to do what is best. She hopes to stop a war; he wants to rescue his father. Complicating their plans is their growing attraction for each other. Can they accomplish their goals without hurting each other? I recommend this one and look forward to the others books in the series.

[Kat Tolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing and original story by Elizabeth Rose. Highland Secrets is book 1 in the Secrets of the Heart series and I can’t wait for the next book in this series to come out. I found her characters wonderful, the story fabulous and the descriptions very vivid. Elizabeth has a true talent for writing and is very say to read. This is one of the most creative stories I have read in a long time. This is a love thy enemy genre and there is so much to the story I hope my review can do this book justice. This story has 3 young ladies, 3 crowns, spies, a secret message from a dead queen, an elderly teacher, 3 protective fathers who are born out of wedlock, mistrust, caring, death, grieving, healing, protection, secret society, imprisonment, wisdom, kindness, rescue, bravery but could there be love? I highly recommend you read this book, you won’t be disappointed!

Travel back in time to 1377 England with Fia Douglas, Maira Douglas and Willow Douglas on a journey like no other.


***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hearts & Crowns 4.5*
An interesting start to a new series, where the three eldest daughters of the Legendary Bastards are indoctrinated (in the archaic sense) into a secret order, the ‘Followers of the Secret Heart’ started by Queen Philippa, their grandfather’s wife. Women with the potential to be independent are taught to be strong and to serve the crown in secret. Fia’s strengths are her observational and listening skills and her teacher, Imanie tells her she would make a good spy.
Fia has both Scots and English blood and when war breaks out she is distraught to think that her father (who never gave his allegiance to the English Crown) might be pitted against his brothers. When she is kidnapped by a highlander, she overhears information that she feels must be acted upon in order to save lives.
An enjoyable story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in a new series Secrets of the Heart. It is the story of the daughters on from The Legendary Bastards of the Crown. The book starts with a quick run down of the past to bring you up to date so It can be read as a stand alone story. I found this book an enjoyable and easy read. It didn’t have as much action as many of Ms Roses book but it was still I book I enjoyed reading and will be looking forward to the rest in the series as they are released. It had some twists and turns that you didn’t see coming and I am sure there will be many more to come. It was a quick and easy read. It did have a sex scene in it which this reviewer as usual skipped but it didn’t impact my enjoyment of the book and will continue to real all of Ms Roses books. I received this book as an ARC and loved every minute of it.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fia Douglas is the eldest daughter of Reed, one of the triplets known as the Bastards of the King. Her royal grand parents have both left very specific orders about what Fia and her two cousins must and must not do, along with a very special gift each.
Laird Alastair MacPhearson is left to rule the clan when his father was taken prisoner. He has tried many times to get him back. Now a spying mission over the border has maybe, given him just what he needs.
This is the beginning of what I know will be a great series, with wonderful characters and lots of adventure. It is linked to a couple of other series by the same author, but you do not have to have read them to enjoy this. (But it is nice to follow the family histories).
Our heroine has a secret that could save, or cost lives, which will it do??
A fun Highlander adventure. I loved it.

[Susan Harrowa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good intentions based on secrets dont always turn out as good as intended....

The Legendary Bastards of the Crown was an amazing series. This second generation series about their daughters looks to be every bit as enthralling! Fia is both a strong woman and a compassionate one. But the secrets in her life lead her to make choices that while good intentioned, sometimes end up with the worst consequences. Others seem to be punished for her plans often times. But Alistair has past demons that cause him to make bad choices as well. And both are connected in more ways than they know.
Another fine example of the fabulous storytelling we expect from Elizabeth Rose. Action, humor, and characters you can love and relate to. Cant wait for the release of the next book in this new series.

[Anna Bowling · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first Elizabeth Rose book, won in an author contest, and it definitely will not be my last. Rose delivers the goods with what I want when I read Scottish medieval romance, and does it in fine style. Atmospheric, emotional, and complex, the author creates a full world for readers to inhabit, and character that feel like long-time friends.

This is a captive/captor romance, though Fia, of royal heritage, and a member of a secret society of women, is not having any part of an unequal power dynamic, so Alastair is in for one heck of a lot more than he bargained for as plans go quickly awry.

While the first of the Secrets of the Heart series, I would recommend reading the Bastards of the Crown series first, which I will be doing before returning to this series, as Fia's father and uncles' pasts do matter, and I want the full experience of this richly woven world.

[Jeanie Womack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravery and Gumption!

Fia, the granddaughter of the English king, has always been very observant. Nothing seems to miss her eyes. Her quick wit and intelligence are recognized by even her young cousins. Her gifts may end up saving her life.
Alistair is the laird of clan McPherson. He and his men have been making trios into a England to gather military intelligence, when his men capture The in the forest with the intent to use her then kill her. Fortunately, Alistair arrives in time to save her life. Three years later, Via finds Alistair wounded And has the chance to return the favor by doing her best to care for his wound.
Just the beginning of an intriguing novel of family and foes, truths and lies, and enemies becoming friends! You'll be glad you found time to enjoy this well written novel!

[Colleen Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Good book by this author

I always enjoy this author’s books. I Fell in love with Alastair, he was honest, kind, loyal, protective, and loving, everything I
look for in a hero. Fia was a strong and loyal heroine. They made a good couple. The story had some magic, intrigue mystery and sweet romance with a Little steam, in good taste. It held my interest to the end. My only regret, for me, a few unanswered mysteries of situations and people. You need to use your own imagination, and I like things explained. My imagination is a little lacking. It had a HEA ending. I do recommend this as I do all of this author’s books. I am looking forward to next book in the great series.

[Deborah Layne · Rating 1 out of 5]

Worst ever

First it was intriguing. Then it was boring. Then it was a clone that promised much and delivered little. Too promising to be this painful. Too predictable. Too disappointing. Wanted so much more. Other is a beautiful idea. Exceptional. But execution is kiss poor.
Sorry cuz. Why cuz? Because reading highlander books gives me insight into my own dialect. Yeah. Black Barbadians. Was also given top class education so I dislike poorly written books. Personal prejudice.
Again sorry cuz. Barbadian dialect has more in common with Scotland than England. You may not like me now because of my review but know this, should you be cussing, know this, all of our swearwords are Scottish. If you don't believe me, ask Rihanna.
Blame it on corona. Home too long. Way too long.

[Bonnie Klein · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 granddaughters born to the king’s bastard sons are called to his deathbed where he gives each a jeweled crown. Their grandmother, his late wife, had instructed him to do so. They each also had brooches which signified they were members of a women’s group their grandmother had formed. The group was formed of strong women to help others in need. Of course the girls didn’t know that until they were older. A Scot captured the oldest in order to trade her for his father who was imprisoned by the clan of her father.
It’s a good story with diverse characters. Unfortunately the Audible narrator did not adequately bring them to life in my opinion, nor did he give life to the book. I didn’t enjoy his voices, especially the MH.

[Jennifer Yeakel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chosen by the Queen of England, Fia and her 2 cousins are the newest members of The Followers of the Secret Heart.
All 3 cousins are trained to be strong and powerful women. They all have there own talents. This is Fia's story.
When Fia is saved by Alastair they both are drawn together, but do not know why.
3 years later Fia saves Alastair's life and sparks fly between them, until his finds out that her clan is an ally of the clan that is holding his father prisoner. So Alastair decides to kidnap Fia and use her as a trade for his father.
This book is filled with adventure, romance and a little mystery. I highly recommend this book,

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highland secrets 4*
This is a good paced story with plenty of action. Fia is a thoughtful and caring woman but also brave when needed. Alastair is a laird who is handsome and brave but has conflict within his own clan. Their attraction to each other is evident from their first meeting, however there are many obstacles in their way, including Fia’s allegiance to both her English relations and her Scottish family. This was an entertaining read and I look forward to reading the stories of the other three women. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Adele Dungan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Rose, Author, has a new book out, released today. It is her 70th book and it is called Highland Secrets. If you like or love to read medieval romance, you will love this one. It is action packed with lots of family, love, secrets and hunks! LOL. I started to read the book at 11:30 am and didn't put it down until I finished it at 4:45 pm, the same day! A lot of people will tell you the plot and what is going on in the book, but I want you to read the description of the book and then enjoy it for yourself. She sells her books on Amazon.com. Please check this book and her 69 others out and prepare to have a great time!

[Jocelyn Nielson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was SO disappointed in the ending! I actually was enjoying the book well enough that I thought about continuing in the series, but the ending ruined that for me. That wasn’t the only flaw either, I thought that the “special training” that the FMC, Fia, went through was weak in its portrayal, and didn’t really show anything “special”. Which, frankly, was also disappointing, since she was supposed to have a gift that required extra training in order to fine-tune that gift. But nope, any explanation or flashback of the training was basic at best, which did nothing to make her stand out as the female lead.

[Christine Woinich · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was fun meeting up, in a way, with old friends. Seeing the children of Rook, Rowen, and Reed as they grew up. This story is Fia's. She was a smart young lady. I loved her intelligence, her love of family, and her resourcefulness. Alastair was a strong man, trying to prove himself to his clan and his father. There were plenty of secrets and danger to keep this story interesting and wanting me to turn the next page.

I received an ARC for this story as a gift, and this is my unsolicited review.

[Crystal Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story

Reed, Rook and Rowan were the illegitimate triplet bastards of King Edward who were to be killed because it was to be cursed to be a triplet. They were saved by the Queen. Upon King Edward’s death bed he called for his sons and each of their eldest daughters, Willow, Fia and Maira.
When arriving the children were given each a crown and a heart shaped brooch from the king per his first wife’s wishes. They were also required to foster at Lord Beaufort’s castle with instructions that they could choose whoever they wanted to marry.
Very interesting story.

[Sandie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an free audible copy of this series in a facebook contest.
This is my first read on the Audible app.
Fia and her two cousins have been given rose brooches and crowns that were left to them by their grandmother. The girls are to young to be aware of the significance of these items.
I enjoyed the story of Fia and Alastair's romance. I find I am looking forward to the continuing storyline of each of the cousins.

[Debbie West · Rating 2 out of 5]

Repetitive with pornography

I started out liking this book. But once the three cousins were shown their strengths, it became repetitive. The author kept pointing out ridiculous ways for Fey to tell when someone was lying or feeling confident. Alastair's character was the better written one. I like him & his dog Cerberus. Unfortunately, toward the end explicit sex scenes were written several times. I won't be reading any more by this author.

[Christine Renaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. Fia was a Scot born but brought up English. Her grandmother left her and two of her cousins gifts to become ladies of a secret society. This society is for strong willed and smart women which take no recognition for what they do. There are more stories to be read about her cousins and her sister as well as their three bastard fathers. Did I mention their grandmother was a queen.