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Seasons of Fortitude #1
Highland Spring
Seasons of Fortitude Series - Book 1
(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but is not required, as this book stands on its own.)
Spring has been raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father of Viking descent. Through the years she's tried to be the son he wished her to be. At a young age she's chosen the bow and arrows of a dead man as her weapon, and now she's mastered the skill. Growing up without a mother, the only skill she hasn't mastered is how to be a lady and someday a mother. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls. Wanting to be a part of overtaking the castle, she goes along with the plan.
Shaw Gordon, chieftain and laird, is a widower with two boys and one unruly adolescent daughter. He decides it's time to take a wife again, but never expects to be presented with his enemy's daughter. The woman is fierce, and nothing like the mother he wants for his children. The Gunn clan has been an enemy of the Gordons for as long as he can remember. While an alliance would be good, he doesn't trust them. As he's about to reject the offer, he spots the coveted bow and arrows of his late father in the girl's hands. In order to retrieve it, he does the only thing he can besides fighting - he marries her.
Can two enemies push aside their differences for the benefit of all? And can a woman draw strength from herself as well as from her new husband when she discovers the horrible secret of her past - that her entire life is nothing but a lie?
(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but is not required, as this book stands on its own.)
Spring has been raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father of Viking descent. Through the years she's tried to be the son he wished her to be. At a young age she's chosen the bow and arrows of a dead man as her weapon, and now she's mastered the skill. Growing up without a mother, the only skill she hasn't mastered is how to be a lady and someday a mother. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls. Wanting to be a part of overtaking the castle, she goes along with the plan.
Shaw Gordon, chieftain and laird, is a widower with two boys and one unruly adolescent daughter. He decides it's time to take a wife again, but never expects to be presented with his enemy's daughter. The woman is fierce, and nothing like the mother he wants for his children. The Gunn clan has been an enemy of the Gordons for as long as he can remember. While an alliance would be good, he doesn't trust them. As he's about to reject the offer, he spots the coveted bow and arrows of his late father in the girl's hands. In order to retrieve it, he does the only thing he can besides fighting - he marries her.
Can two enemies push aside their differences for the benefit of all? And can a woman draw strength from herself as well as from her new husband when she discovers the horrible secret of her past - that her entire life is nothing but a lie?
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2017
881 people are currently reading
429 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Rose
295 books1,286 followersElizabeth 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 28, 2018
You have to be in the mood for a book like this because you are reading historical fiction, but also since it's Scottish, you get the accent written out for you. If you dinnae ken what I mean, ye dinnae want to ken.
You might need help with some translation.
So, I was willing. I can do the Scottish accent in my head, after all my hubs is from Northern England and has a pretty thick accent himself - it's almost the same, right? (Hubby is shaking his head in a "no. No, it's not." kind of way.)
So our heroine is named Spring. Sure, that sounds Scottish. She has been raised to be a warrior because her father said they have Viking blood in them. I was pretty stoked because the description of Spring was like my favorite female Viking ever:
I want to be her when I grow up.
Spring is married off to the leader of an enemy clan in a ruse to get her access to his castle and help her father invade and take over. The problem is that Spring ends up kinda liking the dude she marries, along with his children. Now, she has a conundrum. Help daddy storm the castle and kill all of her new family, or betray her father, brothers, and clan by not helping?
When all else fails, a good rule of thumb is to ask:
So, it sounds like a cool kind of story, in a way, right?
Yeah, but the problem I had was with the style of writing. As I read, it was sticking out more and more. Things like calling their eyes "orbs". His "hazel orbs", her "green orbs". Really? Orbs? I've never called eyes orbs in my life - well, until now. I don't think this is a Scottish thing, but correct me if I'm wrong. It was weird.
Then, there were tons and tons of sentences that said things like "Spring was sad." Or, "Spring felt confused." Or, "Shaw was frustrated."
I'll tell you how this made me feel. Jilly felt angry.
And, the dialogue was really simplistic and felt off as well. It was stilted and had a lot of telling instead of showing. We were constantly told what everyone was feeling instead of just allowing the emotion to naturally come out through the dialogue and thoughts of the characters.
Overall, it made the book, with some potential, fall flat for me. The only fun part was when the guy literally ripped the girl's bodice. I guess it was meant to tell us what genre this book was meant to be categorized as.
I think this one will be better.
And, if that doesn't work out, I have a couple of others waiting:
You might need help with some translation.
So, I was willing. I can do the Scottish accent in my head, after all my hubs is from Northern England and has a pretty thick accent himself - it's almost the same, right? (Hubby is shaking his head in a "no. No, it's not." kind of way.)
So our heroine is named Spring. Sure, that sounds Scottish. She has been raised to be a warrior because her father said they have Viking blood in them. I was pretty stoked because the description of Spring was like my favorite female Viking ever:
I want to be her when I grow up.
Spring is married off to the leader of an enemy clan in a ruse to get her access to his castle and help her father invade and take over. The problem is that Spring ends up kinda liking the dude she marries, along with his children. Now, she has a conundrum. Help daddy storm the castle and kill all of her new family, or betray her father, brothers, and clan by not helping?
When all else fails, a good rule of thumb is to ask:
So, it sounds like a cool kind of story, in a way, right?
Yeah, but the problem I had was with the style of writing. As I read, it was sticking out more and more. Things like calling their eyes "orbs". His "hazel orbs", her "green orbs". Really? Orbs? I've never called eyes orbs in my life - well, until now. I don't think this is a Scottish thing, but correct me if I'm wrong. It was weird.
Then, there were tons and tons of sentences that said things like "Spring was sad." Or, "Spring felt confused." Or, "Shaw was frustrated."
I'll tell you how this made me feel. Jilly felt angry.
And, the dialogue was really simplistic and felt off as well. It was stilted and had a lot of telling instead of showing. We were constantly told what everyone was feeling instead of just allowing the emotion to naturally come out through the dialogue and thoughts of the characters.
Overall, it made the book, with some potential, fall flat for me. The only fun part was when the guy literally ripped the girl's bodice. I guess it was meant to tell us what genre this book was meant to be categorized as.
I think this one will be better.
And, if that doesn't work out, I have a couple of others waiting:
January 9, 2018
Spring
Having been kid napped as a young child, Spring was raised by Cromwell Gunn as his child. Also taken at the same time were two young boys. All were raised to be murderers, thieves and warriors. Their life was tortuous and violent.
Spring was forced by Cromwell into marriage to his enemies, Shaw Gordon of the Gordon Clan. Through threats, Spring agreed to the marriage and would do what Cromwell wanted. However, instead she found a man who truly cared for her while not trusting the alliance between the two clans.
To learn more, one needs to read in full this riveting tales of deception, hatred, love, trust and freedom. I found Spring to be one of those books that once started cannot be put down until the last sentence has been read. Total page turner.
Having been kid napped as a young child, Spring was raised by Cromwell Gunn as his child. Also taken at the same time were two young boys. All were raised to be murderers, thieves and warriors. Their life was tortuous and violent.
Spring was forced by Cromwell into marriage to his enemies, Shaw Gordon of the Gordon Clan. Through threats, Spring agreed to the marriage and would do what Cromwell wanted. However, instead she found a man who truly cared for her while not trusting the alliance between the two clans.
To learn more, one needs to read in full this riveting tales of deception, hatred, love, trust and freedom. I found Spring to be one of those books that once started cannot be put down until the last sentence has been read. Total page turner.
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January 2, 2018
As with all of Elizabeth Rose's stories, you know you are in for an adventurous and emotional tale. A warrior, Spring Gunn has not grown up with the niceties of life. Although one of the best warriors of her father's Clan Gunn, she has never been treated well by her sire. Unexpectedly, her father decides to marry her off to enemy clansman, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside his castle walls and basically spy on him. Shaw is a widower with small children and only agrees to marry Spring in order to obtain her weapons that were made by him and his father. Can you image marrying a stranger and being thrown into enemy camp? Spring just wants to be loved and have a real home and feel safe, which she has not felt all her life. As her new life begins, she is torn on what she should do as her feelings start to be engaged by her new family. Full of secrets, betrayals and danger, this story will take you through a web that will make you turn the pages as fast as possible. You will not be able to put it down!
January 12, 2018
This adventure lands you in the middle of the highlands where some clans where honorable & some just ruthlessly, unscrupulously schemed & plundered.
I liked that the heroine was a warrior, even so she had a gentleness that helped heal a broken family.
There was also a 20+ year mystery solved.
It was a real page turner.
I liked that the heroine was a warrior, even so she had a gentleness that helped heal a broken family.
There was also a 20+ year mystery solved.
It was a real page turner.
January 28, 2018
So promising. So ridiculous. I do not know who should be more offended, the characters for being imbeciles or us for being clearly perceived as imbeciles with the amount of nonsensical shortcuts and loopholes she used. DNF.
March 25, 2018
Decent enough story, though I found myself skimming toward the end. I did like how Spring & Shaw's relationship developed, and how it developed between Spring and the children.
January 30, 2018
I borrowed Highland Spring from the Kindle Unlimited program.
Spring Douglas was stolen when she was a baby with two other baby boys from her clan by the ruthless leader Caldwell Gunn of the Gunn Clan. They are all the same age but not triplets. The three children were raised from a young age to be raiders and lived a violent life at the demands of their father.
One of the men from the Gunn Clan intercepted a messenger from their enemy the Gordon Clan. The message was sent to neighboring clans requesting a wife for Shaw Gordon the Laird of the Gordon Clan. His wife had been dead for four years and he wanted a new wife and mother for his three children. Caldwell forced Spring to enter into marriage with Shaw and her life started to change.
In the end she finds our her entire life was a lie and she finds a true home in the Gordon Clan and a happy ending to this story. It is not an easy path the happiness but that is what makes it a great historical fiction.
Spring Douglas was stolen when she was a baby with two other baby boys from her clan by the ruthless leader Caldwell Gunn of the Gunn Clan. They are all the same age but not triplets. The three children were raised from a young age to be raiders and lived a violent life at the demands of their father.
One of the men from the Gunn Clan intercepted a messenger from their enemy the Gordon Clan. The message was sent to neighboring clans requesting a wife for Shaw Gordon the Laird of the Gordon Clan. His wife had been dead for four years and he wanted a new wife and mother for his three children. Caldwell forced Spring to enter into marriage with Shaw and her life started to change.
In the end she finds our her entire life was a lie and she finds a true home in the Gordon Clan and a happy ending to this story. It is not an easy path the happiness but that is what makes it a great historical fiction.
July 10, 2017
Spring's Journey Home
I had competed the Legendary Bastards Series where I learned of Spring, their sister that had been kidnapped. I had to follow up and learn of her story. So, I pre-ordered Highland Spring and I am ever so glad I did. I enjoyed every minute of this book. It was very difficult to put down. I really love the updates on the Demon Thief Triplets. You will have no regrets on getting and reading this book. Now I'm off to read Summer's Story. Thank you Elizabeth Rose for sharing more of your gift of story telling with all of us.
I had competed the Legendary Bastards Series where I learned of Spring, their sister that had been kidnapped. I had to follow up and learn of her story. So, I pre-ordered Highland Spring and I am ever so glad I did. I enjoyed every minute of this book. It was very difficult to put down. I really love the updates on the Demon Thief Triplets. You will have no regrets on getting and reading this book. Now I'm off to read Summer's Story. Thank you Elizabeth Rose for sharing more of your gift of story telling with all of us.
January 7, 2018
Highland Spring
Spring raised as a warrior is given in marriage to Shaw as a truce between clans. Except her father wants her to help him storm the castle. As she gets to know Shaw and his children she will feel so conflicted. Will she give in to the stone cold warrior side or the side that is starting to care for this family? A huge secret will be revealed about Spring that will shake her foundation to the core. A passionate story of betrayal and love.
Spring raised as a warrior is given in marriage to Shaw as a truce between clans. Except her father wants her to help him storm the castle. As she gets to know Shaw and his children she will feel so conflicted. Will she give in to the stone cold warrior side or the side that is starting to care for this family? A huge secret will be revealed about Spring that will shake her foundation to the core. A passionate story of betrayal and love.
October 26, 2018
I loved Spring and Shaw's story and when Spring was finally reunited with her real family, it brought tears to my eyes. I felt for Spring as she found out her whole life had been a lie. I really thought that Shaw was wrong to force Spring to attend Donel's wedding when she was dealing with the trauma of finding her real family. It was a great story.
September 9, 2017
"Highland Spring" is an interesting tale of family and loyalty, set against the beautiful backdrop of Medieval Scotland.
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2017 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 17, 2017
Publisher's Description:
Seasons of Fortitude Series - Book 1
(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but not required, as this book stands on its own.)
Spring has been raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father of Viking descent. Through the years she's tried to be the son he wished her to be. At a young age she's chosen the bow and arrow of a dead man as her weapon, and now she's mastered the skill. Growing up without a mother, the only skill she hasn't mastered is how to be a lady and someday a mother. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls. Wanting to be a part of overtaking the castle, she goes along with the plan.
Shaw Gordon, chieftain and laird, is a widower with two boys and one unruly adolescent daughter. He decides it's time to take a wife again, but never expects to be presented with his enemy's daughter. The woman is fierce, and nothing like the mother he wants for his children. The Gunn clan has been an enemy of the Gordons for as long as he can remember. While an alliance would be good, he doesn't trust them. As he's about to reject the offer, he spots the coveted bow and arrows of his late father in the girl's hands. In order to retrieve it, he does the only thing he can besides fighting - he marries her.
Can two enemies push aside their differences for the benefit of all? And can a woman draw strength from herself as well as from her new husband when she discovers the horrible secret of her past - that her entire life is nothing but a lie?
Watch for the other books in the series coming soon:
Summer's Reign - Book 2
Autumn's Touch - Book 3
Winter's Flame - Book 4.
Also, be sure to read the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series: Destiny's Kiss (Prequel)
Restless Sea Lord - Book 1
Ruthless Knight - Book 2
Seasons of Fortitude Series - Book 1
My Thoughts:
I really liked this first book in Elizabeth Rose's new series. Since I had just read another of her books that I found not to my taste and I did not care for the cover art of this one I was very skeptical about this read.
I was pleasantly surprised.
Spring has been raised as a warrior and can't see herself as the wife of any man, much less her enemy. How can she be a wife and mother when she has no idea what is expected.
Shaw Gordon is the laird of his clan and a widowed father of three children, two boys and a precocious younger daughter.
When the children meet Spring the eldest son is intimidated by her warrior's skills and takes an instant dislike for her. The other two children, however are totally enamored by her skills and attach themselves to her hip.
Will Spring betray her new husband or will she find herself so in love that she can't possibly do the bidding of the man who she has thought to be her father for most of her life?
I gave this book 4.25 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5 flames.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author's publicist to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I have read and reviewed voluntarily.
Seasons of Fortitude Series - Book 1
(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but not required, as this book stands on its own.)
Spring has been raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father of Viking descent. Through the years she's tried to be the son he wished her to be. At a young age she's chosen the bow and arrow of a dead man as her weapon, and now she's mastered the skill. Growing up without a mother, the only skill she hasn't mastered is how to be a lady and someday a mother. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls. Wanting to be a part of overtaking the castle, she goes along with the plan.
Shaw Gordon, chieftain and laird, is a widower with two boys and one unruly adolescent daughter. He decides it's time to take a wife again, but never expects to be presented with his enemy's daughter. The woman is fierce, and nothing like the mother he wants for his children. The Gunn clan has been an enemy of the Gordons for as long as he can remember. While an alliance would be good, he doesn't trust them. As he's about to reject the offer, he spots the coveted bow and arrows of his late father in the girl's hands. In order to retrieve it, he does the only thing he can besides fighting - he marries her.
Can two enemies push aside their differences for the benefit of all? And can a woman draw strength from herself as well as from her new husband when she discovers the horrible secret of her past - that her entire life is nothing but a lie?
Watch for the other books in the series coming soon:
Summer's Reign - Book 2
Autumn's Touch - Book 3
Winter's Flame - Book 4.
Also, be sure to read the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series: Destiny's Kiss (Prequel)
Restless Sea Lord - Book 1
Ruthless Knight - Book 2
Seasons of Fortitude Series - Book 1
My Thoughts:
I really liked this first book in Elizabeth Rose's new series. Since I had just read another of her books that I found not to my taste and I did not care for the cover art of this one I was very skeptical about this read.
I was pleasantly surprised.
Spring has been raised as a warrior and can't see herself as the wife of any man, much less her enemy. How can she be a wife and mother when she has no idea what is expected.
Shaw Gordon is the laird of his clan and a widowed father of three children, two boys and a precocious younger daughter.
When the children meet Spring the eldest son is intimidated by her warrior's skills and takes an instant dislike for her. The other two children, however are totally enamored by her skills and attach themselves to her hip.
Will Spring betray her new husband or will she find herself so in love that she can't possibly do the bidding of the man who she has thought to be her father for most of her life?
I gave this book 4.25 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5 flames.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from the author's publicist to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I have read and reviewed voluntarily.
May 17, 2017
Highland Spring (Seasons of Fortitude Book 1) by Elizabeth Rose is another interesting and intriguing tale.
"(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but is not required, as this book stands on its own.)"
Spring Gunn was raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father, who is of Viking descent. She has become the best archer of her clan, the Clan Gunn. Her father is a cruel man. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls, so they can seige what her father believes is rightfully his. The Gunn and the Gordon clans have been bitter enemies for years.
Shaw Gordon is a widower, with three small children, he is chieftain and laird of his clan, now he feels he needs to form an alliance and find his children a new mother. He is no fool, so does not trust the Gunn clan, but he finds Spring to be spirited, comely, and she has what he covets most, his beloved deceased father's bow and arrows, which he helped his father make as a young lad, so he agrees to marry Spring, although, he doesn't trust her or her clan, especially, her father. Spring is confused, and wonders who will now protect her two brothers, with her gone. All Spring wants in life is to be loved, protected and feel the safety of a real home.
"Highland Spring" is well written with
complex characters. The plot is unique, complicated, and the back story is well written. It is a steady paced story.
I found Shaw and Spring's story to be interesting, while, not as much fighting as Ms. Rose's other stories, "Highland Spring" is more of an inner turmoil and conflict, type of story. Spring has been lied to nearly her entire life, as well as, her two brothers. Could Spring and her two brothers be the children stolen from another clan years prior? Will Shaw be able to trust the woman he, his clan, and his children are beginning to trust? Will Spring be able to betray the clan who has begun to trust her or will she betray them all?
With deception, danger, secrets, betrayal, lies, a young lady looking for love and a true family, the reader will find much to recommend, "Highland Spring". I enjoyed the many twists and turns, the surprises, the learning to love, and the desperation to do the right thing. Spring has inner turmoil and conflict to deal with, as well as, beginning to love her new husband, his children and his clan.
A powerful and compelling love story!
If you enjoy much inner conflict, learning the truth of where you truly belong, and the power of the love of a family, Scottish clans, Scottish Romance, the feeling of being wanted and the power of finally finding love, then "Highland Spring" is a perfect story to read. I can't wait to read "Summer's Reign", coming soon. Any great story by Elizabeth Rose!
NOTE: "Watch for the other books in the series coming soon: Summer's Reign - Book 2, Autumn's Touch - Book 3, and Winter's Flame - Book 4.
Also, be sure to read the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series: Destiny's Kiss (Prequel), Restless Sea Lord - Book 1, Ruthless Knight - Book 2, and Reckless Highlander - Book 3."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
"(This series is about the sisters of the bastard triplets from the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series. Spring is the sister that was stolen as a baby. It is recommended to read that series first, but is not required, as this book stands on its own.)"
Spring Gunn was raised as a warrior, always trying to please her father, who is of Viking descent. She has become the best archer of her clan, the Clan Gunn. Her father is a cruel man. But now her father decides to marry her off to their enemy, Shaw Gordon, in order to get inside the castle walls, so they can seige what her father believes is rightfully his. The Gunn and the Gordon clans have been bitter enemies for years.
Shaw Gordon is a widower, with three small children, he is chieftain and laird of his clan, now he feels he needs to form an alliance and find his children a new mother. He is no fool, so does not trust the Gunn clan, but he finds Spring to be spirited, comely, and she has what he covets most, his beloved deceased father's bow and arrows, which he helped his father make as a young lad, so he agrees to marry Spring, although, he doesn't trust her or her clan, especially, her father. Spring is confused, and wonders who will now protect her two brothers, with her gone. All Spring wants in life is to be loved, protected and feel the safety of a real home.
"Highland Spring" is well written with
complex characters. The plot is unique, complicated, and the back story is well written. It is a steady paced story.
I found Shaw and Spring's story to be interesting, while, not as much fighting as Ms. Rose's other stories, "Highland Spring" is more of an inner turmoil and conflict, type of story. Spring has been lied to nearly her entire life, as well as, her two brothers. Could Spring and her two brothers be the children stolen from another clan years prior? Will Shaw be able to trust the woman he, his clan, and his children are beginning to trust? Will Spring be able to betray the clan who has begun to trust her or will she betray them all?
With deception, danger, secrets, betrayal, lies, a young lady looking for love and a true family, the reader will find much to recommend, "Highland Spring". I enjoyed the many twists and turns, the surprises, the learning to love, and the desperation to do the right thing. Spring has inner turmoil and conflict to deal with, as well as, beginning to love her new husband, his children and his clan.
A powerful and compelling love story!
If you enjoy much inner conflict, learning the truth of where you truly belong, and the power of the love of a family, Scottish clans, Scottish Romance, the feeling of being wanted and the power of finally finding love, then "Highland Spring" is a perfect story to read. I can't wait to read "Summer's Reign", coming soon. Any great story by Elizabeth Rose!
NOTE: "Watch for the other books in the series coming soon: Summer's Reign - Book 2, Autumn's Touch - Book 3, and Winter's Flame - Book 4.
Also, be sure to read the Legendary Bastards of the Crown Series: Destiny's Kiss (Prequel), Restless Sea Lord - Book 1, Ruthless Knight - Book 2, and Reckless Highlander - Book 3."
Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
October 14, 2018
WE ALWAYS HAVE CHOICES
I enjoyed this page-turning, emotional and action-packed, filled mystery suspense. The story has a great cast of characters, romantic suspense, lies, deceit, betrayal, and eventually the truth. While the story is part of a series, it will read well as a stand-alone.
Raised and told she was a Viking Warrior named Magna Spring, she has always had some doubts and questions. She is proficient with a bow and arrow that she removed off a casualty of war, but that man has always haunted Spring. Now the man she calls father has a plan to marry her off to their sworn enemy and wants her to help betray her new husband so that Gunn can take possession of the castle. The only problem, she has a conscience and has developed feelings for her husband, Shaw Gordon.
Laird Shaw Gordon has been advised that if he wants to do what is right for his children, he will take a wife. It has been four years since he buried their mother and maybe it is time. What a shock when his enemy, Cromwell Gunn, shows up with his daughter, Magna Spring, claiming they will forge a peaceful union with this marriage. He finds Spring attractive, but she is a hardened warrior, is this a wise move for him, his children, and his clan.
The plot is full of secrets, plans, deceit, and choices. With the marriage of Spring and Shaw comes other concerns. While this is an arranged marriage, he still does not trust Gunn, and he is cautious about Spring, but his daughter likes her. What will become of this union? The more time Spring spends with the Gordon clan, Shaw and his children, the more she hates herself and what Cromwell expects her to do. How can she make everyone happy without problems? At what cost to herself and her happiness?
“Sometimes a love of somethin’ can cause someone to do foolish things.”
“Because we make our own future by our choices,” Nairnie told her. “I canna stop anyone from doin’ what they are intent on doin’ no matter if it is wrong or right. Sometimes love makes a man strong—and sometimes it is the nail in his coffin. Be honest with yer husband. He trusts ye and also loves ye. I canna say he’ll still feel the same way when he discovers ye have nothin’ but deceit, lies, and greed in yer heart.”
The story is a battle of right and wrong, lies and deceit, and discovering that everything you have been told your entire life isn’t the truth. It is about discovering that love conquers hate and that you can overcome adversities if you will only be honest with yourself and those who matter. Spring will have to walk through fire, face her demons, and emerge a victor to move forward. She must learn that love and truth win the battle.
“Do ye ken what it must feel like to realize yer entire life has been based on a lie?”
The story is a historical and does have some intimate scenes between a married couple that are mildly explicit in nature without crude language.
I enjoyed this page-turning, emotional and action-packed, filled mystery suspense. The story has a great cast of characters, romantic suspense, lies, deceit, betrayal, and eventually the truth. While the story is part of a series, it will read well as a stand-alone.
Raised and told she was a Viking Warrior named Magna Spring, she has always had some doubts and questions. She is proficient with a bow and arrow that she removed off a casualty of war, but that man has always haunted Spring. Now the man she calls father has a plan to marry her off to their sworn enemy and wants her to help betray her new husband so that Gunn can take possession of the castle. The only problem, she has a conscience and has developed feelings for her husband, Shaw Gordon.
Laird Shaw Gordon has been advised that if he wants to do what is right for his children, he will take a wife. It has been four years since he buried their mother and maybe it is time. What a shock when his enemy, Cromwell Gunn, shows up with his daughter, Magna Spring, claiming they will forge a peaceful union with this marriage. He finds Spring attractive, but she is a hardened warrior, is this a wise move for him, his children, and his clan.
The plot is full of secrets, plans, deceit, and choices. With the marriage of Spring and Shaw comes other concerns. While this is an arranged marriage, he still does not trust Gunn, and he is cautious about Spring, but his daughter likes her. What will become of this union? The more time Spring spends with the Gordon clan, Shaw and his children, the more she hates herself and what Cromwell expects her to do. How can she make everyone happy without problems? At what cost to herself and her happiness?
“Sometimes a love of somethin’ can cause someone to do foolish things.”
“Because we make our own future by our choices,” Nairnie told her. “I canna stop anyone from doin’ what they are intent on doin’ no matter if it is wrong or right. Sometimes love makes a man strong—and sometimes it is the nail in his coffin. Be honest with yer husband. He trusts ye and also loves ye. I canna say he’ll still feel the same way when he discovers ye have nothin’ but deceit, lies, and greed in yer heart.”
The story is a battle of right and wrong, lies and deceit, and discovering that everything you have been told your entire life isn’t the truth. It is about discovering that love conquers hate and that you can overcome adversities if you will only be honest with yourself and those who matter. Spring will have to walk through fire, face her demons, and emerge a victor to move forward. She must learn that love and truth win the battle.
“Do ye ken what it must feel like to realize yer entire life has been based on a lie?”
The story is a historical and does have some intimate scenes between a married couple that are mildly explicit in nature without crude language.
November 23, 2018
The heroine in this story is kind of like Molly Brown in the musical "The Unsinkable Molly Brown." I'm not a fan of the movie but I love the interchanges between these strange and unusual heroines and the heroes that come into their lives.
In this particular tale, I found the historical cultural references to be well done, making the story come to life. The setting easily unfolded in my mind and the uneasy life the people of the story live from one day to the next set things up for a story that kept me guessing.
My favorite character was Spring and I love the way she interacts with the people around her. Her inner reluctance to do things she doesn't feel are right leads her to acts of kindness whenever that avenue is open to her. Her actions and reactions seem to fit her very well.
I'm looking forward to my next read from Elizabeth Rose. I can't wait to see how she'll tackle the next tale.
In this particular tale, I found the historical cultural references to be well done, making the story come to life. The setting easily unfolded in my mind and the uneasy life the people of the story live from one day to the next set things up for a story that kept me guessing.
My favorite character was Spring and I love the way she interacts with the people around her. Her inner reluctance to do things she doesn't feel are right leads her to acts of kindness whenever that avenue is open to her. Her actions and reactions seem to fit her very well.
I'm looking forward to my next read from Elizabeth Rose. I can't wait to see how she'll tackle the next tale.
June 7, 2022
The opening will make you feel all kinds of emotions for our h and what her father makes her do and experience.
I couldn't believe our H would form an alliance with his sworn enemy and not wait to see if other women showed. Also, I thought the h should have suggested to the H what was vulnerable in the battlements. She could have made it seemed it was something she noticed. I will admit she was torn over which side to help, but would have endeared me more to her. I wanted to know how her new family ended up calling her Spring, that wasn't explained.
I enjoyed the character's from the last book made an appearance. The author does a nice job giving you back story about Spring so I will say, can be a stand alone.
There is lovemaking within marriage and heart level maybe 3.5-4 out of 6 if that. We have no cheating, no cliffhanger (except for wonder how Summer), no romance - just lust starting out.
There are two small fight scenes, not your usual Highland Clan story. (ljb)
I couldn't believe our H would form an alliance with his sworn enemy and not wait to see if other women showed. Also, I thought the h should have suggested to the H what was vulnerable in the battlements. She could have made it seemed it was something she noticed. I will admit she was torn over which side to help, but would have endeared me more to her. I wanted to know how her new family ended up calling her Spring, that wasn't explained.
I enjoyed the character's from the last book made an appearance. The author does a nice job giving you back story about Spring so I will say, can be a stand alone.
There is lovemaking within marriage and heart level maybe 3.5-4 out of 6 if that. We have no cheating, no cliffhanger (except for wonder how Summer), no romance - just lust starting out.
There are two small fight scenes, not your usual Highland Clan story. (ljb)
May 11, 2017
Magma Spring Gunn is the best archer in her clan, thanks to the bow she took from a dead Scotsman on burnt candlemas. She is a trained warrior who has put all her emotions away to please her father.
Laird Shaw Gordon has been widowed for four years. He has three growing children and has decided they need a mother. He is very protective because these are dangerous times.
Our heroine is incredibly brave but also confused and lonely. Our hero is suspicious but needs someone in his life.
This is a wonderful adventure linked to the other series that this author has written. You can read it on it's own , but I have read lots of the others and I think it's nicer to read in order. There is lots of danger and intrigue on one side and love and emotion on the other.
I loved every page.
Laird Shaw Gordon has been widowed for four years. He has three growing children and has decided they need a mother. He is very protective because these are dangerous times.
Our heroine is incredibly brave but also confused and lonely. Our hero is suspicious but needs someone in his life.
This is a wonderful adventure linked to the other series that this author has written. You can read it on it's own , but I have read lots of the others and I think it's nicer to read in order. There is lots of danger and intrigue on one side and love and emotion on the other.
I loved every page.
May 19, 2017
A new series continuing a favorite family line
If you've read the Bastard Triplets of the Crown series, then you know they have four sisters named after the seasons. But the oldest sister, Spring, they just learned about because she was stolen as a baby. This is her story. Her life definitely did not get any easier with the man who stole her. Raised to pillage and fight, she is bartered to an enemy clan, simply as a means to steal a castle. She begins to question things when she starts to love her life there and the people now in it. And then her whole world shatters when she learns everything she thought she was and knew is a lie. Can the man she had grown to love help her find her strength again and move forward into this new life?
Two thumbs way up for this first book in the Seasons of Fortitude series!!! Looking forward to Summer's book....
If you've read the Bastard Triplets of the Crown series, then you know they have four sisters named after the seasons. But the oldest sister, Spring, they just learned about because she was stolen as a baby. This is her story. Her life definitely did not get any easier with the man who stole her. Raised to pillage and fight, she is bartered to an enemy clan, simply as a means to steal a castle. She begins to question things when she starts to love her life there and the people now in it. And then her whole world shatters when she learns everything she thought she was and knew is a lie. Can the man she had grown to love help her find her strength again and move forward into this new life?
Two thumbs way up for this first book in the Seasons of Fortitude series!!! Looking forward to Summer's book....
August 22, 2017
Clans fighting, raiding and killing other clans, stealing children - it's Scotland of course!!!
Spring is told she has viking blood in her, so she must fight and kill. She does til she's feared by most of her clansmen. Then comes the day her father marries her off to his worst enemy. Cromwell wants her to sneak the clan into the castle so they can kill the other clan and take over them castle.
The writing is so superb, the characters are wonderful. Spring is so loyal to Cromwell even after she hears that he kidnapped her as a baby and is not her real father. She is torment about who she owes loyalty to. She is in terrible turmoil. Rumors say her two brothers
aren't blood relations either, they were kidnapped too. It's a great read. I've already boughten the rest of the series.
Spring is told she has viking blood in her, so she must fight and kill. She does til she's feared by most of her clansmen. Then comes the day her father marries her off to his worst enemy. Cromwell wants her to sneak the clan into the castle so they can kill the other clan and take over them castle.
The writing is so superb, the characters are wonderful. Spring is so loyal to Cromwell even after she hears that he kidnapped her as a baby and is not her real father. She is torment about who she owes loyalty to. She is in terrible turmoil. Rumors say her two brothers
aren't blood relations either, they were kidnapped too. It's a great read. I've already boughten the rest of the series.
January 8, 2018
After reading many of this series, I am happy to say that this is my favourite. It is the first in the series of sisters but brings in other characters from other stories and stories to come setting the pace for many hours of enjoyable reading. I found myself very wrapped up in the characters, at one time with tears in my eyes, something that doesn’t happen often. Ms Rose developed the characters so that you felt for them and their situation and wanted only the best for them. I also enjoy the way Ms Rose puts detail into a certain aspect of life, in this book it is how bow and arrows are made. The story line was developed well, with adventure, humor, suspense and surprise. Plenty to keep you reading. A very good place to start the series and you will want to continue on to Summers Reign
September 17, 2017
Awesome fast paced story with unexpected possibilities involving future and past events. I like that the strong well developed characters were an extension of the previous trilogy. Brian J. Gill gives an excellent, 5 star performance as the audible narrator. His talent gave life to all the characters with his accurate and believable pronunciations and regional accents and voices for the varied characters. I have really enjoyed all of the boo k s in these connected series very much. Not only has Elizabeth Rose given us another amazing adventure, but Brian J. Gill gives an amazing audible performance. They really seem to make a excellent, coordinated team, to bring us an enjoyable listening experience.
February 11, 2018
Higland Springs, a Book to Enjoy
The main character was either black or hite, hot or cold. Real people are a mixture, always. It was a good, but rather gruesome tale, but I realize these times were like that. I wanted Spring's growth to be slow, when it could be. ...not suddenly becoming this or that. The violence of the times and the brutal scenes of battle would give anyone pause. Surely her father would have SOME redeeming characteristics, some small thing she would miss. Even the coldest of parents to even abused children have the loyalty of those children even while being abused or neglected... ..and yet, even given this it was a surprising Highland tale with warmth and love and joy in the midst of all the troubles. I am glad that I read it!!
The main character was either black or hite, hot or cold. Real people are a mixture, always. It was a good, but rather gruesome tale, but I realize these times were like that. I wanted Spring's growth to be slow, when it could be. ...not suddenly becoming this or that. The violence of the times and the brutal scenes of battle would give anyone pause. Surely her father would have SOME redeeming characteristics, some small thing she would miss. Even the coldest of parents to even abused children have the loyalty of those children even while being abused or neglected... ..and yet, even given this it was a surprising Highland tale with warmth and love and joy in the midst of all the troubles. I am glad that I read it!!
July 11, 2017
I won a copy of this and i received it yesterday. As soon as i got it downloaded i started listening to it and I couldn't stop until I was done. Spring is a women that is a true warrior and she learns that love can come when we are not looking for it and that true family excepts us for who we are. I loved this story and think that it had everything in it that made the story great. Love, hate, betrayal, family, hope and of course fighting for honor of family. If anyone is looking for a great book to get this one is a must read. Great Job Elizabeth Rose - Author I look forward to reading more.
January 14, 2018
Spring was raised believing she belonged to the Gunn clan and tried to be a strong warrior to please her father. Her father gave her as a bride to the Gordon Laird claiming to want an alliance with them but he really wanted his daughter to find a way to get them into gates to take the castle for himself. Spring finds herself falling in love with the laird and wanting to protect The laird and his children and all the other clans members. She also discovers the family she grew up thinking was hers really wasn't. Her and her two brothers were stolen as babies from another clan the Gunn clan had raided. Must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2018
Great
Spring is the daughter of the Gunn Clan. She wants love and tries to please her father. He teaches them to steal, and other bad things.
Spring agrees to marry Shaw Gordon from Edinvale Castle , he seeks a wife for his children.
She was a warrior.
This book has many twists and turns.
The marriage was to be an alliance between the two clans.
I liked all the characters, the children, I really liked Nairnie. She had insight.
Spring and Shaw had chemistry between them.
Would she betray him or go with the attraction, since she found out she indeed loved her husband.
She finds out who she is.
#19 BNB Challenge replacing another
I received this for an honest review.
Spring is the daughter of the Gunn Clan. She wants love and tries to please her father. He teaches them to steal, and other bad things.
Spring agrees to marry Shaw Gordon from Edinvale Castle , he seeks a wife for his children.
She was a warrior.
This book has many twists and turns.
The marriage was to be an alliance between the two clans.
I liked all the characters, the children, I really liked Nairnie. She had insight.
Spring and Shaw had chemistry between them.
Would she betray him or go with the attraction, since she found out she indeed loved her husband.
She finds out who she is.
#19 BNB Challenge replacing another
I received this for an honest review.
March 25, 2019
I write after reading "Legendary Bastards of the Crown" series and then Spring's story.
The previous series had given me the family background, and now Spring has finally been found. However, I feel you need to read her whole story, to understand her complex nature.
I admire Ms Rose's writing, enjoying the warmth and jovial attitude most of her characters exude. Nothing seems insurmountable and although there is often times of emotional turmoil, the heart of the character always seems to shine through.
Yes, I intend to see what the other three girls, in this family get up to.
The previous series had given me the family background, and now Spring has finally been found. However, I feel you need to read her whole story, to understand her complex nature.
I admire Ms Rose's writing, enjoying the warmth and jovial attitude most of her characters exude. Nothing seems insurmountable and although there is often times of emotional turmoil, the heart of the character always seems to shine through.
Yes, I intend to see what the other three girls, in this family get up to.
February 9, 2021
Shaw- Liard over the Gordon Clan strong enemies of the Gunn Clan
Spring- A missing daughter of Ross and Annelise , Used as a pawn for the Gunn clan, She believed she was the Laird gunns daughter and of Viking blood a true warrior.
I enjoyed reading/Listening this intriguing story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story was full of action,adventure, betrayal, truths of secrets, and love. Their story has a loving HEA, With a slight insight into what might happen to Summer and the Baron.
Narrated by Brian J Gill- who did an excellent job in telling this story and great job in in making each character voice sound distinctive with emotion.
Spring- A missing daughter of Ross and Annelise , Used as a pawn for the Gunn clan, She believed she was the Laird gunns daughter and of Viking blood a true warrior.
I enjoyed reading/Listening this intriguing story that is well written with charismatic characters. This story was full of action,adventure, betrayal, truths of secrets, and love. Their story has a loving HEA, With a slight insight into what might happen to Summer and the Baron.
Narrated by Brian J Gill- who did an excellent job in telling this story and great job in in making each character voice sound distinctive with emotion.
May 18, 2017
The Stolen Sister
An enjoyable story about a young woman whose whole life has been based on a lie and has never been allowed to be anything but a stoic warrior. How she copes with being suddenly married and a surrogate mother and her conflicting emotions; torn between old loyalties and new. I have been waiting to find out what happened to Spring who was stolen as a baby from her family and I was not disappointed. Recommended read. This book can be read as a standalone but features characters from other books.
An enjoyable story about a young woman whose whole life has been based on a lie and has never been allowed to be anything but a stoic warrior. How she copes with being suddenly married and a surrogate mother and her conflicting emotions; torn between old loyalties and new. I have been waiting to find out what happened to Spring who was stolen as a baby from her family and I was not disappointed. Recommended read. This book can be read as a standalone but features characters from other books.
January 7, 2018
Spring has sprung
The riveting story of Spring...a young Scottish lass that grew up believing she was someone and something else. Stolen as an infant, this is the story of how she survived a warring clan, a cruel "father", and an upbringing that left her at odds with her own feelings and herself as she discovered all the lies of her life and who she truly was. An easy read and one that helps you believe in love and that the truth will always bear evidence and will make things better in the end. Great book for a fun afternoon read in the middle of winter.
The riveting story of Spring...a young Scottish lass that grew up believing she was someone and something else. Stolen as an infant, this is the story of how she survived a warring clan, a cruel "father", and an upbringing that left her at odds with her own feelings and herself as she discovered all the lies of her life and who she truly was. An easy read and one that helps you believe in love and that the truth will always bear evidence and will make things better in the end. Great book for a fun afternoon read in the middle of winter.
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