The Secret

Highlands' Lairds, Book 1

By: Julie Garwood

Narrated by: Susan Duerden

New York Times best-selling author Julie Garwood captures the Highland splendor of medieval Scotland in this breathtaking love story. The inspiration for her acclaimed bestseller Ransom, this classic tale is a passionate masterpiece from one of the best-loved storytellers of all time.

Judith Hampton was as beautiful as she was proud and loyal. Her dear Scottish friend from childhood was about to give birth, and Judith had promised to be at her side. But there was another reason for the journey from her bleak English home to the Highlands: to meet the father she had never known, the Laird Maclean. Nothing prepared her, however, for the sight of the Scottish barbarian who was to escort her into his land...Iain Maitland, laird of his clan, a man more powerfully compelling than any she had ever encountered.

In a spirited clash of wills and customs, Judith reveled in the melting bliss of Iain's searching kisses, his passionate caresses. Perplexed by her sprightly defiance, bemused by her tender nature, Iain felt his soul growing into the light and warmth of her love. Surely nothing would wrench her from the affection and trust of Iain and his clan...not even the truth about her father, a devastating secret that could shatter the boldest alliance, and the most glorious of loves!

©2013 Julie Garwood (P)2013 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Whats not to like?

Its got everything we love in a romance. A strong woman, a rough tough man who agains his will falls in love. Julie Garwood has long since been one of my favorite historical romance authors. I read this book years ago and was hesitant about listening to it on Audible, but I took the chance and am so glad I did.

Awesome story and great performance!

If you could sum up The Secret in three words, what would they be?

Romantic, Sassy, Engaging.

What did you like best about this story?

I love a spirited woman and Judith was beautifully developed with a nice blend of compassion, spirit, and humility. I also enjoyed the humor in the story - many times I laughed out loud! I really loved all the charaters - Ian was strong but tender and so respectful.

Have you listened to any of Susan Duerden’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I haven't listened to her before but I totally enjoyed listening to her and definately look forward to listening to her again.

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

Definately made me laugh and when I had to put the book on pause, I couldn't wait until the time I could begin to listen again.

Any additional comments?

I really enjoyed this story - my first Julie Garwood book but won't be my last. She writes a great book. I loved the charaters, the romance was very sweet and perfectly (and respectfully) graphic. The narrator only added to the story making it very enjoyable - I didn't want it to end. I wish the next book was avaliable "Ransom" and read by the same narrator!

NARRATOR

This book is great, I didn't know that a reader could ruin a good book but this narrator can do it to any book......

Creepy Male voices

What did you love best about The Secret?

This book was so greatly written. It completely draws you in and it is easy to loose yourself.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Lady Judith's character is wonderful in her naivete (sp) then later in her strength.

What didn’t you like about Susan Duerden’s performance?

Those creepy male voices she gave were almost nightmare inducing. Everything ranging from what you would imagine Gollum would sound like to Vald Dracula. The male voices really detracted from the story!

Great laughs!

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

Oh yes, great story line and amazing characters.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Secret?

The wedding!

What about Susan Duerden’s performance did you like?

Yes, she did a great job with the voices and personalities.

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

OHGosh, I was driving during the wedding scene and almost had to pull over because I was laughing so much!!!

Any additional comments?

I recently started reading Julie Garwood's books and this one is by far my favorite!!!