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Dark Sword #5

Shadow Highlander

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The Dark Sword series captures all the power, passion, and magic of Scotland’s legendary warriors—sworn to fight for victory, in battle and in love…

HE CAN FEEL HER MAGIC

Sent on a dangerous mission into the shadowy world of the Druids, Galen must find a powerful ancient relic to defeat the enemies of MacLeod Castle. But what he discovers is far more powerful—and far more dangerous. A Druid lass whose beauty is as spellbinding as any magic…

CAN HE FREE HER SOUL?

Reaghan is the most enchanting woman Galen has even met—and the most enigmatic. She alone is immune to his mind-reading gifts. He alone makes her feel safe and secure. But Reaghan holds a secret power deep inside her that could destroy them both. And if Galen hopes to hold this captivating woman in his arms every night, he must defeat the darkness that draws closer around her every day…

346 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published August 30, 2011

62 people are currently reading
1901 people want to read

About the author

Donna Grant

299 books4,767 followers
Donna is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a hundred novels. Her most popular series is the breathtaking Dark King (aka Dragon King) series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

In addition to her novels, Donna has written short stories, novellas, and novelettes for digital-first and print release. She has been dubbed as giving the “paranormal genre a burst of fresh air” by the San Francisco Book Review. Her work has been hailed as having “deft plotting and expert characterization” by Publisher’s Weekly and “sizzling” by RT Book Reviews.

She has been recognized with awards from both bookseller and reader contests including the National Reader’s Choice Award, Booksellers Best Award, as well as the coveted K.I.S.S. Award from RT Book Reviews.

Donna travels often for various speaking engagements, conferences, and book signings. She is also a frequent workshop presenter at national conferences such as RT Book Lovers Convention and Thrillerfest, as well as local chapters.

Born and raised in Texas, she also has ties across the border in Louisiana. Growing up with two such vibrant cultures, her Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding. She is never far from her faithful 80 pound dog, Sisko, or her three cats. She can often be found at the movies or bookstore with her children. Or buying makeup. And shoes.

You an find her at www.DonnaGrant.com
as well as her website devoted entirely to the Dragon Kings and all series that encompass the Dark World at www.MotherOfDragonsBooks.com.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
Profile Image for Hbeebti.
2,039 reviews50 followers
October 13, 2011
This one wasn't my favorite of the series, but it was really good. I loved Galen and Reaghan. They didn't try and fight what they were feeling. In fact they both just went with it. There was a lot going on. Not much action until about half way through. Even then it was minimal, of course the ending had its battle scene. I truly loved the way that DG showed how the warriors were like a big family.
Standing together. I enjoyed the moments that were Logan the joker who is struggling with the hatred and anger inside him. It was a nice set up for when he gets his own book. The ending was nice and I loved Seeing Galen get his own happy ending.

Oh poor Sonya! Broc my man you better get your arse in gear and help her. I was shocked by what happened at the end that was the perfect set up for the next book. Which is Broc and Sonya's. A certain someone takes off and no one noticed (yet). Looks like there is more adventures yet . I mean gezz just when they get to the point to kill the baddie.. Nope more drama and more obstacles. I mean a maze really? DG you are running these guys ragged, lol.
Profile Image for Stacie.
2,550 reviews274 followers
June 29, 2018
4 "Locked away" Stars!

This one was good! I've always liked Galen So I was Happy to see him find his HEA; and Regan was just right for him. There were a lot of dangly bits at the end of this one, so I'm moving on to the next one very soon. Probably tomorrow. Happy reading!
Profile Image for Kathleen.
691 reviews89 followers
October 18, 2011
Story Rating 4.5 stars
Character Rating 4 stars
Romance Rating 4 stars
Heat Level 3 stars
Action 3.5 stars
Overall Rating 4.5 stars

I was very pleased with this addition to the Dark Sword series by Donna Grant. The story was very well done and did keep me very interested the whole story through. This is one of my favorite book's from this series. I liked that it did not take place in one setting and that there was movement in the story. Also with this story the continuation of the warrior's and their paranormal god elements were extremely well done. I love the Imagination that Donna has put fourth into this series mixing good, evil, warriors and mage kind and of course the great ending along with a sneak peek into the next book. When the next book, Darkest Warrior is released, I'll be diving right into it to find out just what Donna has in store for these warriors next.
Profile Image for Visionary Druid.
695 reviews14 followers
August 20, 2011

Another brilliant book by Donna! Words can not convey just how much I enjoyed this book! Never once did I get bored, anticipating what would happened next and keeping me on my toes. From page one I was entranced...

In the previous books we've met Galen, one of the warriors, but it was nice to get feedback about him, how his past was still harsh yet different from the others.

And then there is Reaghan. She may not be a warrior like Larena but in all that she did showed a strength. New players have been introduced that makes my mouth just water and get ancy to learn more.

Simply can not gush enough about this book or behave like a fangirl!
Profile Image for Debra Taylor.
884 reviews24 followers
September 18, 2011
As Always, Donna Grant, delivers a first class reading experince. I enjoy her books so much! Can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Valerie.
927 reviews438 followers
July 15, 2019
This book was interesting. It was not what I was expecting, not that I'm sure what I was expecting. I've enjoyed this series because of it's unique nature. But Reaghan surprised me. An event that doesn't happen often for me and I really enjoy it.

I love the characters in this series. Historical is not always my first choice, but I've been good and stuck in this series. It may be the fantasy aspects of it that appeals to me the most. But the characters have become a family. With each book, I'm excited to catch up with the others. I'm interested to see how things at the castle are going. They work together and support each other. I love it.

For this story, Logan and Galen are off to find some druids that they hope can help them find the artifacts that will allow them to end Deirdre. I was able to get to know both Logan and Galen better as they traveled. I love Galen's little hunger issue. He's always hungry and eats all the time. It's a standing joke around the castle that his stomach is never full. It's a fun little quirk. He also struggles with his warrior power. His God allows him to touch someone and read their thoughts. It's come in handy a few times but he can't control it. So touching anyone at any time causes it to happen. He struggles with his desire to touch Reaghan without being buried in her thoughts.

As for Reaghan, she wants to leave her village. She wants to know her history beyond the ten years she can remember. She wants a husband and a family but she hides in the little village with little hope of reaching her dreams. But she plans to leave. To find her life. The warriors come at the right time and will distract the elders of the village so she can sneak away. Too bad she's drawn to Galen and doesn't want to leave. And things are not as they seem. I was certainly taken by surprise. Love that.

There is a big piece of the puzzle that falls into place for the series plot. And I wasn't expecting that either. One step closer to finding an end for Deirdre - who I hate beyond measure. It has me excited for the next book.

Really, that is the key of this book and the series both. I just want to keep reading and I just want more. What more could I ask for from a book.
Profile Image for Leslie.
253 reviews
June 16, 2015
I had picked up the first book in the series (Forbidden Highlander) and then decided to read the rest up to this point before giving a review. So basically you could say that I read all five of these as one book.

Here goes! I liked the story as it flowed from one novel to the next. I was grateful that I decided to wait so that the cliffhangers the author used at the end of each book would not annoy me. I noticed also that you can tell who the next hero will be by the end of each book. For example, at the end of this one Broc is going after Sonya who has run away. (Broc's is the next book according to Amazon and goodreads). However, I think Malcolm's story will be the next after that because of the clues in the last chapters. With the new Warriors the author keeps adding, I think the series has a long way to go before its completion, so readers can keep guessing whose story will be told next. (Well this one anyway).

One thing I did note about all the books was that Ms. Grant tended not to include much of the Scots burr in the novel. The characters are all Highlanders, but the accent only comes through every so often. I am torn about this. I like that the accent is not so thick that you can cut it with a claymore, but I do miss that little lilt that comes with the speech pattern (even if all the male leads eventually sound like Sean Connery in my head).

The romance in each of the books got better as the series progressed especially with the challenges each couple had to face to either be together or remain together. The author seemed to mature in her writing through each book and by the time this one was published, the characters were more complex and had more depth.

I will be reading the next book in the series and I hope that all the Warriors that Ms. Grant has introduced will find their loves and their own happy endings.
Profile Image for Carlyn.
86 reviews8 followers
February 10, 2012
This is book five in the Donna Grant series and I really liked this one. Galen has been someone I have looked forward to reading about since we were first introduced to him.
Galen is an immortal highland warrior with a the god of the trickster in him and he can hear what others are thinking when he touches them so he tends to stay away from all human contact. He and the other warriors have been fighting a battle against an evil druid called Deirdre.
Galen and another warrior named Logan have been sent to find a group of druids to take them to safety and to recover an artifact that they have that could help defeat Deirdre. When they find them they meet Reaghan who Galen discovers he can't read and that he can't seem to keep his hands off her.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat as it had a lot of twists and turns that I wasn't expecting. I liked Reaghan she wasn't afraid to do what she wanted and she was kind and charming. Galen was himself but during the book you got to see a lot more of his past and seen what made him the man he became. I cant wait to read the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Frances McNeal.
155 reviews
September 13, 2011
In my opinion this series is just getting better and better. Galen the warrior who can pick up other people's thoughts and history through touch and forced himself to not touch anyone. He doesn't know the comfort of a woman. Reaghan is a very powerful druid but doesn't realize it. Galen and Logan are trying to bring back the druids to Macleod castle for safety. Along the way Galen learns he can touch Reaghan and not hear her thoughts.

I enjoy the series because it isn't just about the couple, all of the other characters are a part of the story. The writing is great, I can visualize the lands and the rooms, etc. Grant does a great job with that and the love scenes are smokin'! I can not wait for Broc's book and now Logan's as well.
Profile Image for Jennifer .
407 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2011
I just finished this in a marathon read and I must say that it was wonderful! Galen's book may just be my favorite of the bunch so far. I absolutely love how the story line continues to unfold. The journey to the castle with Galen and Reaghan was exciting and I loved how you could feel the intensity of their relationship from the beginning. Reaghan's character made me want to stand up and cheer for never letting her doubts take over what she new to be true about the Warriors. She was true throughout and I loved that about her. There were some great twists and turns that kept me guessing. And Galen's reverence for Reaghan was wonderful to read. The cliffhanger at the end makes me so ready for Brock's story! Oh and Malcom!! Can't wait to see where that goes.
Profile Image for Tania.
828 reviews5 followers
August 17, 2013
"Shadow Highlander" by Donna Grant. Book 5 in the Dark Sword series.

Really really REALLY liked this book! I've wanted to hear Galen's story from the moment he was introduced in the first book.

Galen is a Warrior, cursed with the power to read other peoples' mind with just a touch. He has lived his life in solitary until he found the MacLeod brothers and joined in their mission to fight the evil Druid Deirdre. Now, Galen and Logan have been sent on a mission to find an important artifact that may help them defeat Deirdre once and for all.

Reaghan is a Druid, longing to have an adventure. She has never left her village before and always does what she's told by the elders. Or has she? She can only remember the last 10 years of her life, nothing more. Now, Reaghan is having dreams of places she's never been and people she's never met, and she doesn't know what it all means.

But when Reaghan meets Galen just outside her village, both are inexplicably drawn to each other. Galen and Logan want to save her village from the threat of Deirdre and Reaghan wants to go with them, to finally get the adventure she's wanted. Galen can feel the magic within Reaghan and she is the first female to tempt him in hundreds of years. But how can he touch her when his curse will read every thought in her mind? Good and bad?

The plot picks up very quickly. The descriptions throughout the book are so vivid and colourful. And the introspection both Galen and Reaghan go through is very heartwarming and character building at its core. Very well written. And the chemistry between Galen and Reaghan is very well done. With a little cliffhanger ending making you want to keep reading the next story, it's a perfect set up for the next book.

Can't wait to read the next one! This series is a definite must read!
Profile Image for Sheryl.
1,890 reviews38 followers
September 12, 2011
Another wonderful book in this sexy and exciting series. This time it's warrior Galen who gets to find the woman of his dreams and she is Reaghan, a druid who thinks she has no magic.

Part of this book takes place at the same time as the last book in the series. During that book, Galen and Logan go off on a hunt for a great druid artifact that is rumored to be able to defeat the evil Deirdre. A chunk of Shadow Highlander is their quest for this artifact and runs parallel in time to Hayden and Isla's story. However, by the time Galen and Logan make it back to castle MacLeod, we are past the end of Hayden and Isla's story (but not my much). Because of the larger story arc with trying to defeat Deirdre and because of the intertwining stories and characters, I recommend reading the books in this series in order.

I have always really liked Galen in the earlier books in this series and was so glad to get to read his story. Reaghan is a wonderful match for him. One thing that I particularly liked in this book is that there was not an excess of inner turmoil- you know- I'm not good enough for her, I'm not good enough for him, I have to deny my feelings, etc. etc. There was some, of course, but it did not pervade the story like it did in some of the other books, which I thought was refreshing.

I do, however, wish Ms. Grant had not left us hanging quite so much with some of the other characters, as now it will be a tough few months waiting for the next book to come out!
Profile Image for Rachel.
344 reviews5 followers
November 16, 2011
I was right, Galen made me like him...a lot. So did Logan.(who needs his own book like now) Reaghan proved herself to be an excellent female lead as well.

I think of all the warriors so far, Galen is the one I feel sorry for the most. He has forced himself into this solitude and it's so sad. But then along comes Reaghan and he doesn't have to restrain himself. He can take in what others have taken for granted. Reaghan also finds herself opening up and immediately trusting Galen. She doesn't have to shield herself around him either.

The Druids we meet in Reaghan's village are an interesting bunch. Braden is too adorable and I hope we see him more in Logan's book since he seems to have attached himself. I have a lot of respect for Odara, Fiona and Braden in that group. Mairi had me on edge from the start.

The big surprise was fairly easy to figure out, but it didn't diminish from the reveal at all in my opinion. I am curious as to who this other Druid clan is, and I have a feeling Brenna may be the one to wind up with Logan. I feel like the "solution" to this problem in this book came a little too easily...abruptly, but it was still good.

I am so happy Galen found his HEA. Now I have to be patient (or not so patient) and wait for Broc's book. (LOVE ME SOM BROC)
Profile Image for Michelle the Romance Witch.
2,528 reviews75 followers
December 24, 2012
Shadow Highlander was an awesome addition to the overall series and a great story in itself. Galen and Reaghan were obviously made for each other and they come together in an explosive combination of lust, need, and emotional exploration. Galen finally finds the one woman in the world he can touch and take as his own without his curse coming between them. Reaghan finds a man to offer her comfort, safety, adventure and passion, all while letting her become the woman she was always meant to be. It was wonderful to see the couples from previous stories and the way they have come together as one big family. I will say that I was saddened when Sonya left the castle behind in her hurt and anger over her loss. I can’t wait to read Sonya’s story and have great hope that Broc will save her, from the danger stalking her and from herself.

Full review on my blog at:
http://romancewitchreviews.blogspot.c...
Profile Image for Olimpia.
223 reviews5 followers
December 18, 2012
Donna Grant did it again. Shadow Highlander was everything I hoped for. I always loved Galen’s character. Was so excited that he has his HEA.

The first one to befriend the MacLeods, Galen has such a great personality and pretty much gets along with everyone. But like all the other Warriors and their past, Galen holds secrets that although not like others, is still sad.

Reaghan is perfect for Galen. She’s strong willed, and powerful in magic, although she has no idea of it.

The bond between them is strong.

There were a lot of twists and turns, and of course a lot of action in the battles. The romance was amazing as usual. And finally, it was so fast paced; it was very hard to put down. Excellent read. Love this series.
Profile Image for Rae South-Hopkins.
176 reviews9 followers
June 7, 2013
This was another one that had me on edge a few times... With Galen and his edginess and Logan falling apart at the seans.... I was so worried many times in this book! I was however,very impressed at how Galen turned out though.. Poor Braden.. I was walking through a grocery store when his SHOCKING scene came into play and I gasped, STOPPED dead in my tracks and about screamed!! Shocked at Mairi... so totally didn't think she would be weak enough for something like that! :( I begun this book rather slowly and the further I got into the book, the longer my reading strides were... I got to the point where they were back at MacLeod castle and couldn't put it down!!! I so can't wait to read Darkest Highlander!!!!!
Profile Image for Barbara ★.
3,509 reviews285 followers
July 30, 2014
I really like this series. I enjoy each book more than the previous one. I love the world building - Deidre is just so evil and strong. I can't wait to see how they eventually defeat her.

Galen is one of my favorite warriors. Poor guy doesn't have control of his God and can't touch anyone without "seeing" their thoughts. He's kept himself physically and emotionally away from everyone in order to avoid losing their trust. It's a pleasure when he finally meets someone who he can touch without being bombarded and it's no wonder he falls in love instantly. Who could resist the temptation to finally touch a woman without fear of learning something he didn't want to know?

218 reviews
September 9, 2011
Book 5 in Donna Grant's Dark Sword Series features Warrior Galen Shaw. This book finds Galen and fellow Warrior, Logan Hamilton, leaving MacLeod Castle to journey to Loch Awe in search of an "artifact" to help aid them in defeating the evil drough Dierdre. At Loch Awe, the Warriors come upon Reaghan, a mysterious beauty who is more than she seems or realizes.

Will Galen & Reaghan discover the artifact in time? Will they find love in each others arms, or will secrets keep them apart? Danger lurks at every turn as Dierdre launches new attacks against them.

Another exciting adventure from a fantastic author! A Must-Read!
Profile Image for Teresa Kilpatrick.
174 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Dark Sword series and is a part of the greater Dark World. Donna Grant does create a wonderful world, with many fantastical creatures. So, if you find this book compelling and entertaining, the world does continue and evolve. This series was read as a part of the Audible Escape package.

This is the story of Galen and Reaghan, he is a Warrior that can not touch another without knowing their thoughts. But the beautiful druid with no memories of her past is an exception. Does he crave her because he touch her and not know her thoughts or is more? Together they dig up her past… and only then can they build a future.

Profile Image for Emily.
100 reviews24 followers
October 11, 2011
I haven't read all the books in this series, I've only read the last 2. But I love both of them! Donna Grant is a wonderful author, and I've had many of her books on my TBR list for some time. Honestly can't wait to read this whole series, along with more =D
Profile Image for Deannie.
703 reviews12 followers
May 28, 2015


He is on a mission for a relic, she holds power she doesn't know she has. He feels her, he is drawn to her and it brings him to his knees. Can he defeat the darkness that threatens them all?

You just have to keep reading. This whole series will captivate you..........
Profile Image for Me Like Reading.
359 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2021
Personal soundtrack for this book playing in my head is the song ‘Touch’ by Sleeping At Last.

I really liked this one! Quinn’s story still reigns as my favourite at this point but this instalment of the series comes in at a close second.

Hmmm, how to describe the plot without any spoilers...well, the artifact that Galen and Logan are sent hunting for is similar to that of the 2018 movie ‘The Scorpion King: Book of Souls’ (no, not The Rock, the one with Zach McGowan) involving the search for a legendary relic (as indicated in the film title) that proves to be an unexpected discovery...mixed in with Galen - in my mind - basically turning into The Hulk whenever his trickster god, Ycewold, takes over...with a shot of Disney’s 1991 ‘Beauty and the Beast’, more specifically at the end of the movie when the spell is broken and Prince Adam who is feared dead starts floating and light shoots out of his body.

Yeah, kinda like all that smooshed together. With a whole bunch of other stuff in between.

Seriously, I really enjoyed this book. I liked Galen Shaw and Druid Reaghan and genuinely felt my heart going out to them with all the hardships they’ve had to endure, both individually and as a couple, to the extent of finding myself wanting so badly for them to find their happily ever after. Yes, there was the familiar romance formula but circumstances around Galen and Reaghan put a different spin on their eventual relationship. Intriguing secondary storylines pertaining to other known characters, amid the action packed as well as scorching steamy scenes, easily have me wanting to know how the Dark World continues.

Speaking of, I’m ready to crack open the pages of the next book to find out more about Sonya and Broc.

And, to echo Ricky Ricardo with his wife in ‘I Love Lucy’ but with roles reversed, it sounds like Broc has some ‘splaining to do. 😬
Profile Image for Kristina.
260 reviews67 followers
Read
January 10, 2021
Galen, amore te mereces todo lo bonito.

Broc, por favor, cuida tus palabras.

Fallon, siempre me haces sonreír. Larena, con tod respeto pero lo amo.

Cara y Lucan son unos invisibles.

Hyden, amore, Isla es fuerte como tú, respira.

Dreide, una sorpresa is coming.
Profile Image for Annie.
584 reviews7 followers
September 26, 2023
This was a fun historical fiction with supernatural twist - 1600’s with Highlander warriors and Druid’s. Lots of magic & figuring out how to break spells as they team up, trying to figure out how to take out the evil Druid and trust each other. This book had a central couple for all our romantic needs, as each book does, but you get to follow the group of warriors on their quest too.
Profile Image for Book Review Diva.
165 reviews33 followers
July 17, 2012
Donna Grant “Shadow Highlander”

Reaghan loves her life, she loves living among her fellow druids in the forest hidden from everyone. Reaghan's life is about to change through while she is out for a walk in the forest. Reaghan notices two beautiful warriors walking outside the invisible shield of her home, and wonders what they are looking for. What Reaghan does not know, is that they are looking for the hidden druids, and want to ask them some questions. Reaghan knows that she is not suppose to reveal her hidden location to anyone no matter what, but Reaghan cannot keep her curiosity from getting the best of her. She decides to make her presence known to the warriors.

Galen is a very powerful warrior and is determined more that ever to rid the world of Deidre, the evil drough, who has ruined his life as well as his friends. When Galen is asked to hunt down the one thing that can kill Deidre once and for all, he is all to happy to oblige. While Galen and his warrior friend are looking for the hidden druids hideout they come across a beautiful druid and wonder where she came from since they hadn’t seen anyone around for miles. What Galen does not know, is that this beautiful druid is the artifact that they have been looking for. He first must convince this fine druid that they need her help. Will Galen be able to keep focused on the saving him and his friends and put his attraction for the beautiful druid named Reaghan aside, or will he succumb to her magic and beauty and forget what he was asked to do?

Galen is going to need to use all of his powers to save Reaghan, and humanity from the one evil person that could destroy everything that he loves and cares for. Will he be able to keep Reaghan from Deirdre and from her finding out that Reaghan holds the key to Deirdre's destruction? Will Reaghan be able to figure out how to undo the spell that she has put on herself before it is too late and Deidre has gained her powers back? Will Reaghan fail everyone completely?

Donna Grant writes a heart pounding, action packed novel about love, devotion, and friendship. This book is a great read and will have you anticipating what is going to happen next all the way through.

4 Hearts Out Of 5

Reviewed by Victoria Heart



Visit my Website at http://www.historicalromancebooks.ca
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