Secrets of a Highlander's Heart

Return of the Highlanders, Book 1

By: Julie Johnstone

Narrated by: Timothy Campbell

Brus Stone can't recall his life before being rescued at the age of five and brought to live with the Northern Watch. Told his mother abandoned him, he's about as willing to give his trust to a woman as he is to hand his sword to his enemy during battle. When he's tasked with accompanying some highlanders through the treacherous lands he helps patrol, he encounters a bonny lass who proves to be as brave as any warrior he's ever met.

He's surprised and wary by his pull to her and steels himself against lowering his guard. But her open nature bemuses him, and her caring heart entices him. Each time he touches her he's further drawn to her warmth and the possibility that believing in her will not lead to betrayal. But a shocking revelation obliterates everything he holds true and leaves him with a choice give unwavering faith to the daughter of the enemy he didn't know he had or raise his guard once more and secure the ultimate revenge.

Grace MacDonald wonders whether she'll ever meet a man who sees her as an equal and not simply a potential wife to do as he bids. Her father wants her to wed her childhood friend to fortify an important alliance between their clans. She wants to please her beloved father, but her friend does not stir her heart or desire, so she's reluctant to wed him. When the party she's traveling with is attacked and a Scottish warrior rescues her, she's immediately drawn to the powerfully compelling man. He displays a gentle caring side, and seems to value her opinions. His every look, touch, and kiss ignite her as she's longed for. But Brus won't let her in.

There's a barrier between them, and the harder she tries to breach it, the more withdrawn he becomes. She's determined to prove he can count on her, so they can grasp the love awaiting them. Yet when a devastating secret comes to light, she must decide whether her loyalty remains with her beloved father or whether it belongs with the man she's certain is her destiny.

©2024 Julie Johnstone (P)2024 Julie Johnstone

Outstanding!

Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart by Julie Johnstone

What a great story!
This story will completely captivate you. 
You’ve read the book summary, so no need to do so here. All you need to know is this….. This book is Julie’s brilliant imagination, and talent, complimented by Tim Campbell’s narrating.
If you haven’t experience their combo before, start with this book. 
Julie has once again written an incredible story, making waiting for book two pure torture. I love the fact there are so many well written surprises throughout this story. And great development of secondary characters. Much anticipation for book two. Can’t wait. What a talent. 
Also, I wish to thank Ms. Johnstone for caring as much as she does for her audiobook addicts like myself. Choosing Tim Campbell as narrator is absolutely delicious. I am very thankful he narrates your stories. He captures the emotion of the story, consistently throughout. And the man can deliver one sexy voice for any hero. But what impresses me the most is his ability to make me forget the female voices aren’t done by a female. Tim does not fail to capture the emotion of each and every character. Well done!!
Story: Outstanding
Narrator: Outstanding.

I liked the ending.

I did not like the flipping from past to present with each chapter. If became tiresome while listening to the story.

Great finish

I’ve listened to TONS of these highland romance novels. Lots of Julie Johnstone.

Many follow the same routines and patterns. This one started out that way. I don’t mind, it’s why I listen to them. However. The last bit of the book. Maybe the last hour was great! I laughed so hard and there was a good little bit that had me listening in more than before. It felt fast paced but I really enjoyed this book with the snippet of humor.

Great start to the series

Enjoyed the way the story unfolded with past and present pov. The historical elements around the story keep me drawn to this genre. Excited for the other siblings stories to be told.

Past and present meet

My favorite narrator,Timothy Campbell did a great job with changing his voice for different characters. It doesn't seem like he is reading its so natural, and he has so much feeling. The story is about trust, betrayal and love. My favorite characters were the two main protagonists.

Off to a Great Start

Secrets of a Highlander’s Heart is an exciting beginning to a new series. The first few chapters alternate between the present and fifteen years in the past. It seemed odd until you hit the “aha” moment, and things fall into place. The characters are fantastic. Brus and Grace are strong, intelligent, and brave. The chemistry between them sizzles. The villains in the story, led by Grace’s father and uncle, are deceitful, power hungry, and dangerous. This story and the series are set in a politically dangerous time in the history of Scotland. The complex plot is full of action, secrets, intrigue, betrayal, some answers, and a touching romance. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to the rest of the series. Timothy Campbell’s narration was, as always, excellent.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

Julie,,Thank you for sharing this wonderful story!

Brus meets Grace when he rescues her and her Sister.
Will he ever trust her? His forgotten past is brought
to life. Tim Campbell, great job narrating!

The story

The story flowed seamlessly from beginning to end! It made me ready to listen to the second book in the series to find out what happens next!

preachy

FL never shuts up. She asks overly personal pushy questions repeatedly and it's treated as being direct and positive, but she's just a very entitled character and it gets old. A little subtly would have helped. DNF