Dangerous Highlander

Dark Sword, Book 1

By: Donna Grant

Narrated by: Antony Ferguson

Length: 9 hrs and 35 mins

Publisher's summary

He is magnificently strong - and dangerously seductive. One of the fiercest of his clan, Lucan MacLeod is a legend among warriors, inspiring fear in man and woman alike. For 300 years, he has locked himself away from the world, hiding the vengeful god imprisoned in his soul. But then, a young lass caught in a raging storm awakens his deepest impulses...and darkest desires.

Cara doesn't believe the rumors about MacLeod castle - until the majestic Highland warrior appears like a fiery vision in the storm, pulling her into his powerful arms, and into his world of magic and Druids. An epic war between good and evil is brewing. And Lucan must battle his all-consuming attraction for Cara - or surrender to the flames of a reckless, impossible love that threatens to destroy them both.

©2010 Donna Grant (P)2012 Tantor

Critic reviews

"Sensual, dark, and enchanting...sure to leave [fans] craving more!" (Lara Adrian)

An old love renewed!

I loved the Dark Swords since my teens and omg Anthony Ferguson just makes them so damn delectable! Will be getting the rest of the series for sure <3

Good Read!

Overall this book was a good introduction to the series.
It gave the bookings and hero's, and what to expect, from the cast off characters.

Not usually into historical settings, but...

This is historical & paranormal and it's pretty good. The historical part only really distracts (at least for me) in the language used.

I was very happy with the narrator's accent, but didn't like his female voices.

The story its self is pretty good. There are things that made me stop and go ... wait... what? but those were easy enough to get past and just enjoy the overall storyline. I'm somewhat concerned about where future books in this series might go. They've set up a very powerful 'bad guy' and if they don't get the 'good guys' up to speed in a fast but believable way, the storyline will go downhill fast.

I'll definitely be reading the next book though and have added some other 'Highland' type series to my wish list after listening to this one.

Excellent story of ... Adventure and Romance

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Yes, this audiobook is intriguing! It has adventure, a good story, just the right amount of fantasy and enough romance to pull you into the heat of things.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Cara, because she is so innocent in the beginning, and throughout the book, you can see her growing, learning, and developing into a young woman full of passion.

Which character – as performed by Antony Ferguson – was your favorite?

Lucan

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

not really, though there are some parts that brings a smile to my face.

Any additional comments?

At first, it was difficult understanding the Scottish accents of the reader, but after I got the hang of it,.... it's a lot of fun.

Lucan and Cara

This is the first book in the Dark World, which has many spinoffs. 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.

Cara is an orphan that is unaware of her druid heritage. In the shadows of MacLeod Castle, Cara is attacked by a powerful dark druid (drough) named Diedre. Lucan is a highlander and a Warrior (a species with that has a primeval god inside him giving him special powers), he saves Cara. The two have to overcome the many obstacles in dealing with their feelings and who they are as individuals.

Very good listen

Great Narrator & good story. I really liked the combination of the highlander and the immortal. Book one got this series off to a good start and I will be listening to book two soon.

Dangerous Highlander (s) Indeed!

Listened for Fun (Audible)
Overall Rating: 4.25
Story Rating: 4.00
Character Rating: 4.50

Audio Rating: 3.50 (not part of the overall rating)

First Thoughts When Finished: Dangerous Highlander is a great beginning to what might end up being another in my must read "KILT" series.

Story Thoughts: Dangerous Highlander(s) indeed! In fact, I think I may go searching for castles that are rumored to have 300ish year old highlanders living in them. Especially if they are bad ass and clearly on the side of good. If they happen to have a few special powers, I won't argue. This was a really entertaining read and a great start to a series. I had read Donna Grant's druid series and had expected a lot from Dangerous Highlander. I was not disappointed.

Character Thoughts: Lucan was just exactly what I want in my kilted warriors: hot, strong, conflicted, loyal, and agile. Cara was exactly what strong kilted warriors need in their women: someone not afraid to tell them exactly what is going on. She was very much deserving of Lucan and I loved her spunk. Lucan and Cara together were hot! I also enjoyed Lucan's brothers and the other characters that came in towards the end. I do believe this is going to be a fun series to read because of the characters.

Audio Thoughts:

Narrated By Antony Ferguson / Length: 9 hrs and 35 mins


Antony is actually a narrator that I totally enjoy and towards the end of Dangerous Highlander the narration finally clicked for me. However, in the beginning I just couldn't get my head around his voice for Cara. However, his pacing, emotions, and accents were brilliantly done! I will be continuing this series on audio though because I think the male voices were amazing. As always, please listen to a snippet before buying an audiobook as narrators appeal differently to each listener.

Final Thoughts: I have the rest of these on my Christmas list!

Not my favorite Highlander Series

I have listened to several Highland books and I wasn't impressed with this series. Although I do enjoy Antony baritone voice, it wasn't enough to save the storyline of this book. The characters are quite predictable as well as the outcome. If it hadn't purchased this item due to a sale, I don't think I would have wasted a credit on it.

romance, supernatural fantasy, sex and suspense

Would you listen to Dangerous Highlander again? Why?

Yes. There is so much to absorb. The delightfully fascinating details are irresistible. Besides... who can resist sexy highland men?

What other book might you compare Dangerous Highlander to and why?

Karen Monings Highlander series. Had a similar blend of fantasy and romance with the suspense and eroticism.

What about Antony Ferguson’s performance did you like?

I was very pleased with the narration! The distinct individuality of each voice along with tempo cadence and expression. His voice is comfortable and easy to hear.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

Out and out laughing or crying... no. Neither did I want to toss it in frustration. I did, however, want to finish in one listen and anticipate the next one!

Any additional comments?

Altho the main storyline was basically complete I still felt cheated and even resented the fact that I needed to go on to the next one to find out what happens to storylines I had anticipated would conclude in this book instead of feeling like I had only bought half the book. I was very frustrated with the end and saw all of the set ups for the series obviously set up already.

Love lis listening to book

as I am listening to story I read so long ago, it is wonderful to picture it again but with voices. ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!!