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Highland Talents #1
Highland Healer
He needs her for his clan. He wants her for himself. Can he have both? Toran Lathan never expected to become Laird, and never expected to meet a woman like Aileanna Shaw. Her healing ability is just what his people need, but Toran cannot resist her beauty. Yet will loving him destroy her ability to heal? Aileanna Shaw has a healing touch—and a special talent she must keep secret. Stolen from her home by a marauding army, she's kidnapped again by the Highland Laird she heals. Is she a prize of war, or the prize of his heart? While Toran battles the invading lowland army, he also battles his desire for Aileanna. And Aileanna must decide if she can trust her secrets to this fierce warrior who needs her talent, but wants her love. This is a new release of a previously published edition.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2012
772 people are currently reading
1302 people want to read
About the author
Willa Blair
35 books238 followersWilla Blair is an Award-winning Amazon and Barnes & Noble #1 Bestselling author of Scottish Historical, light Paranormal, and Contemporary romance. She has been featured on and contributes to USAToday’s Happy Ever After romance blog, Savvy Authors, Romance University, and more.
Her books have won numerous honors, including the Marlene, the Merritt, National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, The Reader’s Crown finalist, Historical Romance finalist and Honorable Mention in InD’Tale Magazine’s prestigious RONE Award, NightOwl Reviews Top Pick, and InD’tale Review’s Crowned Heart.
A life-long student and reader, she has been a stained glass artist and instructor, a foreign language teacher, a computer scientist, an analyst, a manager and an executive. She has visited six continents and can get by in several languages. She loves scouting new settings for books, and thinks being an author is the best job she’s ever had.
Her books have won numerous honors, including the Marlene, the Merritt, National Readers’ Choice Award Finalist, The Reader’s Crown finalist, Historical Romance finalist and Honorable Mention in InD’Tale Magazine’s prestigious RONE Award, NightOwl Reviews Top Pick, and InD’tale Review’s Crowned Heart.
A life-long student and reader, she has been a stained glass artist and instructor, a foreign language teacher, a computer scientist, an analyst, a manager and an executive. She has visited six continents and can get by in several languages. She loves scouting new settings for books, and thinks being an author is the best job she’s ever had.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
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August 28, 2019.
The title leads the reader to believe that the storyline is about a healer, but this book focuses more on a formulaic romance tale set in Scotland, rather than healing. However, there was very little pride in the land. It had such great potential.
The heroine demonstrated stupidity and put the entire clan in danger as a direct result of her poor choices. She can't claim ignorance since she had personal experience with the cruelty of the villain in the past and knew precisely the type of harm he was capable of. It lacked the depth in the characters, captivation (actually quite sluggish, becoming quite predictable and boring. So much so, that after reading 81% of the book, I nearly gave up.
I pushed myself to complete of this book, there was a sex scene, which was not exactly super steamy, but none the less, it is included and for those that take offense, be aware and avoid this text altogether. I was not aware prior to reading since I prefer not to read reviews prior to avoid bias. Had I been aware, I could have made another choice.
Instead of rating this text with the fewest stars, I chose to avoid any at all; which I hope does not detract from the overall reviews.
This work has some merit with good editing, the chemistry between the H/H, likable sub-characters, and the paranormal healing abilities (that had very little clarity). I am drawn to this genre, but this work was not able to quench my thirst for it at this time.
I borrowed the audible version of this book through Hoopla, accessed through my local library.
...
The title leads the reader to believe that the storyline is about a healer, but this book focuses more on a formulaic romance tale set in Scotland, rather than healing. However, there was very little pride in the land. It had such great potential.
The heroine demonstrated stupidity and put the entire clan in danger as a direct result of her poor choices. She can't claim ignorance since she had personal experience with the cruelty of the villain in the past and knew precisely the type of harm he was capable of. It lacked the depth in the characters, captivation (actually quite sluggish, becoming quite predictable and boring. So much so, that after reading 81% of the book, I nearly gave up.
I pushed myself to complete of this book, there was a sex scene, which was not exactly super steamy, but none the less, it is included and for those that take offense, be aware and avoid this text altogether. I was not aware prior to reading since I prefer not to read reviews prior to avoid bias. Had I been aware, I could have made another choice.
Instead of rating this text with the fewest stars, I chose to avoid any at all; which I hope does not detract from the overall reviews.
This work has some merit with good editing, the chemistry between the H/H, likable sub-characters, and the paranormal healing abilities (that had very little clarity). I am drawn to this genre, but this work was not able to quench my thirst for it at this time.
I borrowed the audible version of this book through Hoopla, accessed through my local library.
...
January 27, 2013
4.5 Stars - I've been on a Highlander kick lately and this one didn't disappoint. Great sexual tension and chemistry, a lot of fun and suspenseful action, plus the additional bonus of the heroine having a touching of paranormal ability. Toran is an incredibly compelling hero, Aileanna was a strong and likable heroine, and lots of interesting secondary characters (loved Senga) rounded out the story. I didn't fully get Ailenna's reaction to Toran toward the end (vague so as to not spoil), so that part tripped me up a bit, but all in all, an enjoyable read I would definitely recommend.
January 16, 2017
Ok
It was an ok story. Very predictable. Writing was good, but just didn't light my fire. No Jamie Fraser here.
It was an ok story. Very predictable. Writing was good, but just didn't light my fire. No Jamie Fraser here.
January 22, 2013
Aileana is an exceptional healer, capable of bringing people back from the brink of death. Orphaned at an early age and eventually captured by Colbridge, a brutal dictator, Aileana has spent 2 years using her “talents” to keep Colbridge’s army strong. When Toran, a laird in his own right, is captured by Colbridge and taken to Aileana for healing, she is immediately drawn to him.
The tension between Aileana and Toran is obvious from the moment she comes in contact with him. Blair leaves no doubt that the two strong personalities will come together, and the action, Toran’s escape with Aileana, as well as Colbridge’s relentless pursuit, add to the drama and excitement of “Highland Healer.”
Toran quickly makes his interest known to Aileana and his clan, but fearing that he is only interested in her ability to heal his people, she continues the lie that has kept her safe among Colbridge and his men, telling Toran her virginity is linked to her healing powers, effectively holding him off for a time despite her desire for him.
After witnessing Aileana’s healing ability, Toran’s clan members are afraid she is a witch, but Toran’s authoritative manner and the respect he has earned from his clan intensify the romance between them. Aileana’s tendency to overreact, though understandable given Blair’s allusions to what she has been through, wears thin, and the story could have ended approximately 40 pages earlier if not for Aileana’s antics, but the story is well-written, well-suited to historical fans with a touch of paranormal.
Strong secondary characters, including a mentor, a maternal healer, and Toran’s jealous former lover, Coira, make this a rich, enjoyable read. Easily 4 satin pillows.
[[ASIN:B008L87H0O Dark Sentinels Book One:Sable]]
The tension between Aileana and Toran is obvious from the moment she comes in contact with him. Blair leaves no doubt that the two strong personalities will come together, and the action, Toran’s escape with Aileana, as well as Colbridge’s relentless pursuit, add to the drama and excitement of “Highland Healer.”
Toran quickly makes his interest known to Aileana and his clan, but fearing that he is only interested in her ability to heal his people, she continues the lie that has kept her safe among Colbridge and his men, telling Toran her virginity is linked to her healing powers, effectively holding him off for a time despite her desire for him.
After witnessing Aileana’s healing ability, Toran’s clan members are afraid she is a witch, but Toran’s authoritative manner and the respect he has earned from his clan intensify the romance between them. Aileana’s tendency to overreact, though understandable given Blair’s allusions to what she has been through, wears thin, and the story could have ended approximately 40 pages earlier if not for Aileana’s antics, but the story is well-written, well-suited to historical fans with a touch of paranormal.
Strong secondary characters, including a mentor, a maternal healer, and Toran’s jealous former lover, Coira, make this a rich, enjoyable read. Easily 4 satin pillows.
[[ASIN:B008L87H0O Dark Sentinels Book One:Sable]]
November 7, 2015
Pretty good story until one big, unforgivable blunder.
The Highlands Healer is exactly what you'd ecology, a formulaic historical romance story set in Scotland. I have bio problem with that. While it doesn't break any new ground - they must learn to love and trust each other under difficult circumstances - it at least was believable within those rival guidelines. He is "massive", muscley, gorgeous and mysteriously sun tanned (in Scotland? Okay then), she is bewitchingly beautiful yet miraculously untouched. Fine. Pretty standard, down to her auburn hair and green eyes.
At 81% though, the heroine does something DO stupid, SO dunderheaded, something she's been warned about, something she KNOWS is beyond stupid, and when it fails, she thinks, "oh, I should have listened to them." YA THINK?? Everyone else in the book is able to understand this very basic concept except her.
If you ever saw the third Jurassic Park (not the recent Jurassic World) where the only woman on the trip gets a megaphone and starts screaming for the lost kid in the middle of a very dangerous island filled with actual monsters, ignoring all warnings, and her stupid behavior gets men killed because she simply can't reason beyond a toddler level, THIS is just like that, and it's infuriating. I actually groaned and said "are you KIDDING me?" out loud.
So the heroine goes from sympathetic, interesting character to a complete moron in one move, erasing any sympathy I had for her. I actually dislike her now. Of course her actions put everyone else in an incredibly dangerous situation while they try to rescue her stupid self.
Diana Gabaldon crushed the historical Scottish romance genre with Outlander, and every other book trying to compete with it is going to fail. However, in Gabaldon's books if the heroine makes a mistake it's through ignorance or inexperience and she has to suffer the consequences of her actions. (If you haven't yet read Outlander, you really should although it will ruin you for these typical, standard "Mighty Laird and Beautiful Virgin - I Must Have Her!" kinds of stories.)
So. Even though I knew by the cover and title what this story would be like and adjusted my expectations accordingly, I'm still left extremely annoyed by the heroine's idiocy.
Before 81% in the story, I would have rated Highland Healer 4 stars. It is pretty well done, although nothing new, for this genre. However, that huge blunder ruined the story for me. I can't suspend disbelief that far.
If having a heroine behave totally out of character, forcing others to risk their lives and suffer for her stupidity doesn't bother you, then you'll most likely enjoy this book, as long as you keep your expectations low.
The Highlands Healer is exactly what you'd ecology, a formulaic historical romance story set in Scotland. I have bio problem with that. While it doesn't break any new ground - they must learn to love and trust each other under difficult circumstances - it at least was believable within those rival guidelines. He is "massive", muscley, gorgeous and mysteriously sun tanned (in Scotland? Okay then), she is bewitchingly beautiful yet miraculously untouched. Fine. Pretty standard, down to her auburn hair and green eyes.
At 81% though, the heroine does something DO stupid, SO dunderheaded, something she's been warned about, something she KNOWS is beyond stupid, and when it fails, she thinks, "oh, I should have listened to them." YA THINK?? Everyone else in the book is able to understand this very basic concept except her.
If you ever saw the third Jurassic Park (not the recent Jurassic World) where the only woman on the trip gets a megaphone and starts screaming for the lost kid in the middle of a very dangerous island filled with actual monsters, ignoring all warnings, and her stupid behavior gets men killed because she simply can't reason beyond a toddler level, THIS is just like that, and it's infuriating. I actually groaned and said "are you KIDDING me?" out loud.
So the heroine goes from sympathetic, interesting character to a complete moron in one move, erasing any sympathy I had for her. I actually dislike her now. Of course her actions put everyone else in an incredibly dangerous situation while they try to rescue her stupid self.
Diana Gabaldon crushed the historical Scottish romance genre with Outlander, and every other book trying to compete with it is going to fail. However, in Gabaldon's books if the heroine makes a mistake it's through ignorance or inexperience and she has to suffer the consequences of her actions. (If you haven't yet read Outlander, you really should although it will ruin you for these typical, standard "Mighty Laird and Beautiful Virgin - I Must Have Her!" kinds of stories.)
So. Even though I knew by the cover and title what this story would be like and adjusted my expectations accordingly, I'm still left extremely annoyed by the heroine's idiocy.
Before 81% in the story, I would have rated Highland Healer 4 stars. It is pretty well done, although nothing new, for this genre. However, that huge blunder ruined the story for me. I can't suspend disbelief that far.
If having a heroine behave totally out of character, forcing others to risk their lives and suffer for her stupidity doesn't bother you, then you'll most likely enjoy this book, as long as you keep your expectations low.
January 18, 2014
Heartwarming!
My heart has been swept away in this heartwarming Highland story. The visionary words had me picturing myself amongst the clans themselves within the mountains behind their keep. The characters Toran and Aileanna chemistry sizzled between each other and their sweet nothing teasing whispers had me grinning and laughing at how hot the scenes were. I read this smooth writing story within a day and couldn’t believe I was done so quickly, this was one of those stories I wanted to last forever.
Laird Lathan is a man of honor, a fierce fighter, a gentle lover, and caring lord over his clan, and of course the sexiest man every woman would dream of. His actions and tenderness swept me away immediately. The story in itself showed his strength when one moment he was captured yet yielded his demeanor until he could be rescued. Once rescued his charisma melted into my soul as he lead his clan and protected them along with his own captive rescue of the Healer Aileanna from the brutal rogue lowland army leader.
I really didn’t gain any feelings towards the Healer Aileanna until the end of the book. However, she was a character who was a bit standoffish due to her gift of healing, she was scared of her own feelings and what might happen to herself if she failed. It was a relief and enjoyable to see how she grew within the story, how she gains a back bone and shows grace and forgiveness to those who would speak out against her.
At the end I did get angry with Aileanna because of her foolish actions in her thinking but the story is bitter sweet and I found my heart melted. I had happy teary eyes knowing that Aileanna and Toran would be together forever and a day with three blessings on the way.
Awesome Read!
My heart has been swept away in this heartwarming Highland story. The visionary words had me picturing myself amongst the clans themselves within the mountains behind their keep. The characters Toran and Aileanna chemistry sizzled between each other and their sweet nothing teasing whispers had me grinning and laughing at how hot the scenes were. I read this smooth writing story within a day and couldn’t believe I was done so quickly, this was one of those stories I wanted to last forever.
Laird Lathan is a man of honor, a fierce fighter, a gentle lover, and caring lord over his clan, and of course the sexiest man every woman would dream of. His actions and tenderness swept me away immediately. The story in itself showed his strength when one moment he was captured yet yielded his demeanor until he could be rescued. Once rescued his charisma melted into my soul as he lead his clan and protected them along with his own captive rescue of the Healer Aileanna from the brutal rogue lowland army leader.
I really didn’t gain any feelings towards the Healer Aileanna until the end of the book. However, she was a character who was a bit standoffish due to her gift of healing, she was scared of her own feelings and what might happen to herself if she failed. It was a relief and enjoyable to see how she grew within the story, how she gains a back bone and shows grace and forgiveness to those who would speak out against her.
At the end I did get angry with Aileanna because of her foolish actions in her thinking but the story is bitter sweet and I found my heart melted. I had happy teary eyes knowing that Aileanna and Toran would be together forever and a day with three blessings on the way.
Awesome Read!
July 2, 2015
4.5 stars
what an unexpected surprise. the story was intense throughout and I adored the characters. Well executed read.
what an unexpected surprise. the story was intense throughout and I adored the characters. Well executed read.
February 6, 2018
Some Potential Was Lost
Ugh. I really wanted to like this book…It had such potential. The overall story was good and just the kind I love. But, it felt like I was reading an author’s first attempt at writing a novel. There were key points to why a character was a certain way introduced at 90% of the way in. What is the point? There were also some continuity errors. For instance, I am disappointed not just because of the time I spent on this book but mostly because it had such potential and I feel let down. I can’t decide if I’ll read more of Blair’s work. I love the genre and a lot of the problems I had with this book could be fixed with a better editor and some more developed writing skills. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-5/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
Ugh. I really wanted to like this book…It had such potential. The overall story was good and just the kind I love. But, it felt like I was reading an author’s first attempt at writing a novel. There were key points to why a character was a certain way introduced at 90% of the way in. What is the point? There were also some continuity errors. For instance, I am disappointed not just because of the time I spent on this book but mostly because it had such potential and I feel let down. I can’t decide if I’ll read more of Blair’s work. I love the genre and a lot of the problems I had with this book could be fixed with a better editor and some more developed writing skills. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-5/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
December 4, 2015
OK..
This was an OK read because it really did drag sometimes. I think Aileana’s healing ability was pretty cool but when she wasn’t healing someone the story kind of dragged. Plus, I just knew she was going to do something that would give her the TSTL award. I mean, how could anyone believe anything Colridge had to say? Between the drag of the story and her TSTL moment I had a very hard time with this book.
I did like the secondary characters, though: Senga, Elspie, Jamie, Angus, Ranald and Donal. And I really liked Toran but if I was him I would have dumped her a$$ a long time ago. Geez, she was enough to make him crazy and she didn’t want to listen to anyone’s GOOD advice, and she wondered why Donal didn’t trust her. Using her Voice on Toran should have been the last straw for him. This kind of writing doesn’t do the heroine justice. It makes her look selfish and unable to see anything but herself and what she wants to do. I have to agree completely with TracyJane’s review, there were times that I just thought, “good grief, Aileana, you are a moron,” and when the TSTL came along I almost stopped reading. And why did she remain a captive for 2 years if she were able to make Colridge do whatever she wanted with a Voice suggestion? That was never really explained.
There was some sexual tension in this and some explicit sex.
I gave it 3 stars for all the really likable people.
I borrowed this through KU.
As to the narrator: He didn't really do so well. His male voices were either too gravelly or too high and the women’s voices sounded just like men sometimes. And there was absolutely no emotion.
This was an OK read because it really did drag sometimes. I think Aileana’s healing ability was pretty cool but when she wasn’t healing someone the story kind of dragged. Plus, I just knew she was going to do something that would give her the TSTL award. I mean, how could anyone believe anything Colridge had to say? Between the drag of the story and her TSTL moment I had a very hard time with this book.
I did like the secondary characters, though: Senga, Elspie, Jamie, Angus, Ranald and Donal. And I really liked Toran but if I was him I would have dumped her a$$ a long time ago. Geez, she was enough to make him crazy and she didn’t want to listen to anyone’s GOOD advice, and she wondered why Donal didn’t trust her. Using her Voice on Toran should have been the last straw for him. This kind of writing doesn’t do the heroine justice. It makes her look selfish and unable to see anything but herself and what she wants to do. I have to agree completely with TracyJane’s review, there were times that I just thought, “good grief, Aileana, you are a moron,” and when the TSTL came along I almost stopped reading. And why did she remain a captive for 2 years if she were able to make Colridge do whatever she wanted with a Voice suggestion? That was never really explained.
There was some sexual tension in this and some explicit sex.
I gave it 3 stars for all the really likable people.
I borrowed this through KU.
As to the narrator: He didn't really do so well. His male voices were either too gravelly or too high and the women’s voices sounded just like men sometimes. And there was absolutely no emotion.
October 18, 2013
This story was OK. I didn't love it but neither did I hate it.
I am not 100% sure, but I believe this was a debut effort and it shows in the writing. There must have been some scenes that didn't make the final edit, but dialogue later doesn't reflect those edits. There were quite a few scenes that I read and said "whoa, when did that happen?" Being the compulsive freak that I am, I had to then scan back through the book to see where I missed these revelations, only to find that I hadn't missed them because they were not there. I blame the editor for that - not the author.
I also found the heroine Aileana to be incredibly stupid. Not just in a silly ,flighty young girl way but in a "OMG you are a moron" sort of way. I don't want to spoil anything so suffice it say if I had her "talent"( yes talent not gift), I would not have been a captive for 2 years. Just saying.....
The hero, Toran was a good hero. He was a bit wishy-washy at times, but I contribute most of that to the aforementioned editing issues.
All in all, I believe that Ms. Blair has a great deal of potential and I am willing to give her next book a try. I can't say that I would recommend this book, but I think with a better editor I could have.
I am not 100% sure, but I believe this was a debut effort and it shows in the writing. There must have been some scenes that didn't make the final edit, but dialogue later doesn't reflect those edits. There were quite a few scenes that I read and said "whoa, when did that happen?" Being the compulsive freak that I am, I had to then scan back through the book to see where I missed these revelations, only to find that I hadn't missed them because they were not there. I blame the editor for that - not the author.
I also found the heroine Aileana to be incredibly stupid. Not just in a silly ,flighty young girl way but in a "OMG you are a moron" sort of way. I don't want to spoil anything so suffice it say if I had her "talent"( yes talent not gift), I would not have been a captive for 2 years. Just saying.....
The hero, Toran was a good hero. He was a bit wishy-washy at times, but I contribute most of that to the aforementioned editing issues.
All in all, I believe that Ms. Blair has a great deal of potential and I am willing to give her next book a try. I can't say that I would recommend this book, but I think with a better editor I could have.
May 16, 2013
Very enjoyable Highland adventure! The romance of Toran and Aileanna is complicated, set against a background of war brought to the Highlands by a ruthless warmonger. At the beginning of the story, Aileanna is a captive healer to the warlord Colbridge. Toran, injured by Colbridge in battle, is healed by Aileanna when he becomes a prisoner also. When Toran's men effect escape, Aileanna is take back to Toran's keep.
Toran and Aileanna are attracted to each other, but there are many things standing in the way of their happy ending. Though she is told she will become healer to Toran's people, Aileanna questions if she is still a prisoner. Her special healing abilities cause others to fear her as a witch. Toran has a jealous former lover. And Colbridge seems determined to get Aileanna back in his camp.
There is lots of action and intrigue, great characters and even some Highland history. I really enjoyed this book and I have put Ms. Blair's next novel, Highland Seer, high on my to read list.
Toran and Aileanna are attracted to each other, but there are many things standing in the way of their happy ending. Though she is told she will become healer to Toran's people, Aileanna questions if she is still a prisoner. Her special healing abilities cause others to fear her as a witch. Toran has a jealous former lover. And Colbridge seems determined to get Aileanna back in his camp.
There is lots of action and intrigue, great characters and even some Highland history. I really enjoyed this book and I have put Ms. Blair's next novel, Highland Seer, high on my to read list.
March 9, 2014
Reviewed by Bri
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Highland Healer was a great Highland novel with original and pleasantly placed areas of paranormal elements. This novel had so many subplots that added to the original story. Willa did a great job maintaining the integrity of the main story while using the multitude of secondary characters to move it forward.
Usually in a Highland novel the hero is often times an extreme alpha male that “seduces” his heroine and then falls in love with her. Uniquely that was not the case in Highland Healer even though Lathan sure did try. I found it to be pleasant and humorous that Aileanna could keep Lathan and other men at bay to protect her virtue by only using her special Talent. I loved the amount of integrity and courage that Aileanna showed when after facing so much tragedy she never once used her talents for her own gain.
This is a great novel. Lovers of Hannah Howell’s highland novels will love this just as well.
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Highland Healer was a great Highland novel with original and pleasantly placed areas of paranormal elements. This novel had so many subplots that added to the original story. Willa did a great job maintaining the integrity of the main story while using the multitude of secondary characters to move it forward.
Usually in a Highland novel the hero is often times an extreme alpha male that “seduces” his heroine and then falls in love with her. Uniquely that was not the case in Highland Healer even though Lathan sure did try. I found it to be pleasant and humorous that Aileanna could keep Lathan and other men at bay to protect her virtue by only using her special Talent. I loved the amount of integrity and courage that Aileanna showed when after facing so much tragedy she never once used her talents for her own gain.
This is a great novel. Lovers of Hannah Howell’s highland novels will love this just as well.
February 8, 2016
It’s a quick and enjoyable read, very well written for the lover of Scottish clan novels, and I give it a very strong four stars. Willa Blair neatly deals with the potential repercussions of her heroine being branded a witch, without going into detail that would draw Aileana into that category. Aileana’s special powers are used sensitively and judiciously in Highland Healer. Utilising the paranormal aspects of the novel Willa Blair gives the reader a glimpse of the anatomical and physiological knowledge that Aileana possesses, using some terminology in current use. This was an aspect I personally didn’t relate to very well; though I do appreciate the difficulty in avoiding presently used technical terms in a historical novel. However, if you enjoy a hint of the paranormal then I’m sure you’ll really enjoy how it’s used in Highland Healer. I loved reading everything else about the story, the characters well rounded.
November 8, 2012
I'm one of those readers that enjoys a rich Highland based historical romance now and then. And Highland Healer delivered. With vivid characters, authentic prose, and a dash of magic - the romance between Aileanna and Toran was both sensual and sincere. Another plus, there are plenty of interesting secondary characters. We can hope this won't be the only adventure on the highlands for Willa Blair.
February 9, 2013
I got this free in November and just found it now on my Kindle and spent a very enjoyable couple of hours reading about Toran and Aileanna.
Aileanna's skills, "talent," as a healer is something that I haven't read before. Added a touch of the paranormal to this read.
The spark between Toran and Aileanna was a joy to read.
I look forward to more from this author.
Aileanna's skills, "talent," as a healer is something that I haven't read before. Added a touch of the paranormal to this read.
The spark between Toran and Aileanna was a joy to read.
I look forward to more from this author.
September 4, 2013
I loved this story! I'm a sucker for any romance where the heroes are in kilts. This has just the right amount of paranormal aspect with Aileanna's talents, but I have to say that it's Toran who won me over. What a stud! The love scenes were written so beautifully. I just wanted to melt in Toran's arms. I'm on to the next in the series now. I hope the next hero is as amazing as Toran. Mmmmmmm.
August 16, 2014
3.5/5.0
The story concentrates largely on the men and the war between them until about midway when the pace and excitement quicken.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
The story concentrates largely on the men and the war between them until about midway when the pace and excitement quicken.
Full review in April 2013 issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 16, 2012
Love story between a Laird and a Healer, with interesting abilities and great compassion <3
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January 31, 2013
I've been meaning to read this for a while. I had gotten it a while back and it got lost in the mountain of books in my kindle currently. But now I've finally gotten to it and I'm quite pleased.
So the story starts off with our healer, Aileana, in the camp of a warlord by the name of Colbridge. As the story opens, she's brought a prisoner to heal with her mystical gifts. This guest is a laird, presumed to be of the area they just attacked. And here we have our love interest for this story. The laird is Toran, laird of another keep and when rescued, takes Aileana with him. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of conflict Aileana faces. Her gifts make her the target of accusations of witchcraft and of the woman determined to be lady of the keep. I was especially pleased with the use of actual dialect of the area. Though it took me a while to get what some of the words meant, it made the story that much better. Aileana is somewhat naive, apt to follow her heart over her head. She also seems to have the gift of persuasion which aids her quite often, even with Toran. Toran is very masculine and manly. He's used to taking charge and getting his way. Aileana is pretty stubborn herself, making her the perfect counterpart for Toran. My only thing is that I wish it had taken a bit longer for the two to get together. We knew it was inevitable but it would have been nice for Toran to work a bit more for her. Still, it doesn't actually hurt the book at all. It is very well written. I have definitely enjoyed this book and will look for more by the author.
So the story starts off with our healer, Aileana, in the camp of a warlord by the name of Colbridge. As the story opens, she's brought a prisoner to heal with her mystical gifts. This guest is a laird, presumed to be of the area they just attacked. And here we have our love interest for this story. The laird is Toran, laird of another keep and when rescued, takes Aileana with him. I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of conflict Aileana faces. Her gifts make her the target of accusations of witchcraft and of the woman determined to be lady of the keep. I was especially pleased with the use of actual dialect of the area. Though it took me a while to get what some of the words meant, it made the story that much better. Aileana is somewhat naive, apt to follow her heart over her head. She also seems to have the gift of persuasion which aids her quite often, even with Toran. Toran is very masculine and manly. He's used to taking charge and getting his way. Aileana is pretty stubborn herself, making her the perfect counterpart for Toran. My only thing is that I wish it had taken a bit longer for the two to get together. We knew it was inevitable but it would have been nice for Toran to work a bit more for her. Still, it doesn't actually hurt the book at all. It is very well written. I have definitely enjoyed this book and will look for more by the author.
February 27, 2013
Stealing a woman's heart has never been so dangerous.
Never expecting to be a lord, Toran is thrown into a world of trouble. His clan needs a healer, but the one he finds is far too tempting and taking her could ruin her healing touch forever. Aileanna has a healing touch and special talent that must be kept secret. Kidnapped by a marauding army she fears not only for her power, but her heart. Can Aileanna trust Toran with her secrets?
This story is action-packed and full of twists and turns that will keep readers on their toes. It is fast-paced and has a sweet romance that will warm your heart. Well written and full of imagination, this story is a must read for historical romance fans!
Toran is a fierce warrior and doesn't back down from a challenge. He has to deal with a lot of responsibility on a very short notice, but he takes it with courage. Seeing this big warrior fall hard for Aileanna was so sweet. I couldn't help but root for things to work out between these two.
Aileanna is hiding secrets, and when you are a prisoner of war it can be tough keeping them. She is a brave woman who tries to do what is right, but sometimes it is hard to trust even the ones you love. I really enjoyed getting to know more about her and was glad to see her character grow more throughout the book.
An action-packed tale full of twists and turns that you won't want to miss!
Never expecting to be a lord, Toran is thrown into a world of trouble. His clan needs a healer, but the one he finds is far too tempting and taking her could ruin her healing touch forever. Aileanna has a healing touch and special talent that must be kept secret. Kidnapped by a marauding army she fears not only for her power, but her heart. Can Aileanna trust Toran with her secrets?
This story is action-packed and full of twists and turns that will keep readers on their toes. It is fast-paced and has a sweet romance that will warm your heart. Well written and full of imagination, this story is a must read for historical romance fans!
Toran is a fierce warrior and doesn't back down from a challenge. He has to deal with a lot of responsibility on a very short notice, but he takes it with courage. Seeing this big warrior fall hard for Aileanna was so sweet. I couldn't help but root for things to work out between these two.
Aileanna is hiding secrets, and when you are a prisoner of war it can be tough keeping them. She is a brave woman who tries to do what is right, but sometimes it is hard to trust even the ones you love. I really enjoyed getting to know more about her and was glad to see her character grow more throughout the book.
An action-packed tale full of twists and turns that you won't want to miss!
April 16, 2013
I had the pleasure to meet Willa Blair several weeks ago. Willa Blair is one of many authors I got to meet that I will be reading and reviewing. Aileanna Shaw is a healer forced for the pasted two years to follow Colbridge. Toran Lathan is taken to her tent to be healed after being captured in a battle. When a chance to escape comes Toran takes Aileanna to his Aerie in the mountain's. Aileanna has a hard time trusting what Toran says after being around Colbridge for so long. I really liked this book and can't wait to read more in the series. Toran was the kind of alpha male any woman loves to read about. He was strong and tough but caring with his people and Aileanna. Aileanna had me almost in tears at one very emotional part in the book. If you like historical books or Highlander books then you will love this book. Highland Healer was a great start to what I'm sure is going to be a brilliant series.
February 23, 2024
Highland Healer is the debut novel by Willa Blair. It tells the tale of Alieanna and Toran. She is a healer and he is a laird, caught up in a battle of the Highlands and both held captive.
Alieanna is a strong character, who has had to deal with things in her own way due to her Talent. Toran is a young man who wasn't expecting to become laird but has done everything in his power to take to his new role and make it his.
The secondary characters in this book are fantastic too. I loved Senga, Donal and even Coira - hopefully, she will make a reappearance in a future book.
There is some steam in this book so I wouldn't recommend it for YAs but to everyone else - YES! If you want to get lost in the Scottish Highlands with a kilted hero to make you swoon, then give this book a go!
* Verified Purchase - November 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 18, 2013
Alieanna is a strong character, who has had to deal with things in her own way due to her Talent. Toran is a young man who wasn't expecting to become laird but has done everything in his power to take to his new role and make it his.
The secondary characters in this book are fantastic too. I loved Senga, Donal and even Coira - hopefully, she will make a reappearance in a future book.
There is some steam in this book so I wouldn't recommend it for YAs but to everyone else - YES! If you want to get lost in the Scottish Highlands with a kilted hero to make you swoon, then give this book a go!
* Verified Purchase - November 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 18, 2013
June 29, 2013
I don't often read historical novels but am not averse to a bit of romance and whilst I tend to prefer paranormal or futuristic I found this book to be thoroughly enjoyable.
It's a gentle even sweet love story about laird Toran and his relationship with Aileana set in the highlands. A time of hardship and war. Aileana has the gift of healing and had been held captive by Colbridge a hard cruel warlord seeking to conquer. Her rescue by Toran and subsequent adventures with him make for an interesting ride.
I found myself immersed in the world that the author created and thoroughly enjoyed the journey. Danger lurks for the young couple but together they can and will heal at least their little corner of the Highlands!
I received a copy of this free for an honest review but found I had already purchased it !
4 and a half stars from me
It's a gentle even sweet love story about laird Toran and his relationship with Aileana set in the highlands. A time of hardship and war. Aileana has the gift of healing and had been held captive by Colbridge a hard cruel warlord seeking to conquer. Her rescue by Toran and subsequent adventures with him make for an interesting ride.
I found myself immersed in the world that the author created and thoroughly enjoyed the journey. Danger lurks for the young couple but together they can and will heal at least their little corner of the Highlands!
I received a copy of this free for an honest review but found I had already purchased it !
4 and a half stars from me
November 5, 2012
****** Fabulous Debut********
Willa Blair, makes the Highlands come to life in this medieval Historical Romance. Highland Healer had a little bit of everything I want in a Scottish Romance, sexy hot lard, strong beautiful female character's and they are all so sweet and respectful of their new lady although it takes her a while to know it herself.. You got a few evil villains a little magic, mystery and beautiful romance, you will love Toran he is so sweet to Aileana it's a love to be dreamt of! Lot's of action and conflict and the history, You will definitely feel as if your in the Highlands of Scotland..
Willa Blair, makes the Highlands come to life in this medieval Historical Romance. Highland Healer had a little bit of everything I want in a Scottish Romance, sexy hot lard, strong beautiful female character's and they are all so sweet and respectful of their new lady although it takes her a while to know it herself.. You got a few evil villains a little magic, mystery and beautiful romance, you will love Toran he is so sweet to Aileana it's a love to be dreamt of! Lot's of action and conflict and the history, You will definitely feel as if your in the Highlands of Scotland..
February 13, 2013
HIGHLAND HEALER by Willa Blair is an interesting Scottish historical romance with paranormal elements. Fast paced with strong characters and an intriguing plot. Highlander Laird, Toran Lathan and Aileanna Shaw, a healer find danger,a battle with a lowland army,passion,secrets, a kidnapping, romance,and love. A quick read filled with adventure and love. Received for an honest review from the publisher.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: MILD
REVIEWED BY: AprilR,My Book Addiction and More/My Book Addiction Reviews
November 5, 2016
Not a huge historical romance fan, but I do have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to continuing the series.
I liked how the author was able to have you in the battle and time era without having it become tedious. Many historical romances I've tried to read in the past tend to lose me due to the overabundance of descriptive words trying to describe the past.
There were a few parts I thought dragged a little, but they were brief enough I could easily keep immersed in the story. Overall, would recommend and read again.
I liked how the author was able to have you in the battle and time era without having it become tedious. Many historical romances I've tried to read in the past tend to lose me due to the overabundance of descriptive words trying to describe the past.
There were a few parts I thought dragged a little, but they were brief enough I could easily keep immersed in the story. Overall, would recommend and read again.
November 12, 2012
Given that I'm prone to really liking historical romance set in this period, I have to say this debut story by Willa Blair certainly did not disappoint! A nicely developed tale with an interesting skew focused on the heroine's ability to heal. My only complaint was that I wanted this book to go on for hundreds more pages.... I can certainly see how this will lend itself to becoming a series in which we revisit the clan. I will definitely be watching for more books for this author!
November 25, 2012
Caught between a rapacious war lord and a highland laird, healer Aileanna has to look out for her own best interests as a talented healer. Should she stay with the evil man who has protected her for the past two years, or trust the highlander who treats her with the respect and deference she deserves?
I liked it. The characters were strong enough to hold my attention and their motives were believable. If you love a Scottish historical (as I do), this is worth the read.
I liked it. The characters were strong enough to hold my attention and their motives were believable. If you love a Scottish historical (as I do), this is worth the read.
May 9, 2013
If you have a longing to visit the Highlands of Scotland but don't have it in the budget or maybe your lacking the working time machine you have to read this book. With lines such as "A chill breeze laden with the remnants of morning mist swirled in the shade under the tree where guards had tied Toran." you will be pulled into the wild hills and clans of old.
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