The Secret

Highlands' Lairds, Book 1

By: Julie Garwood

Narrated by: Susan Duerden

Length: 12 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's summary

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.

Good story with a sense of humor

I enjoyed the story. The premise isn't exactly unique, but the plot works. It's engaging and fun, and I also enjoyed Garwood's principal characters' humor and humanity. The relationship between Frances Catherine and Judith and between Judith and Ian are complex and engaging. Other characters were also lively additions to the story, with both depth and individuality.

But...

... Susan Duerden has entertained me wonderfully in other novels (I just finished Eloisa James' "Seven Minutes in Heaven" and her narration was excellent) but in this particular case, I was puzzled by the decision - either hers or the director's - to make every male voice some version of gravelly, growling shouting. I have to imagine that, once Ms. Duerden finished reading this, her throat had to hurt. I found it distracting and annoying... and disappointing.

I really wish this was better

There were definitely good parts to this book; however, overall it was not all that interesting or captivating like you wish it would be, especially for a Julie Garwood novel.

Very Enjoyable, Slightly Repetitive

The Secret: Highlands' Lairds, Book 1 is a "difficult to put down read". I was captivated from the very first page. Judith, the leading lady, is enchanting, and lovable, and while Ian, the Laird of his clan is typical to Highland stories, you can't help but root for them to get together, and find their way. I am looking forward to the continuation of this series.
Having said that, Susan Duerden, whom I generally enjoy as a narrator, was slightly sing song in her narration, and some of her voices sounded quite strained.
Julie's attempt/style of humor is cute, but, at least in this novel, seemed repetitive, i.e. the chaos, confusion and misunderstandings that were always evident at the Elder Meetings.
These attempts were really fluff though, and didn't affect the actual storyline. This novel is definitely credit worthy.

AWESOME

I love reading Julie Garwood stories. It lets me let go of everyday worries. I believe I have read just about every book she has written.

Captures Your Heart From The Beginning

What made the experience of listening to The Secret the most enjoyable?

The scene where Judith meets Frances-Katherine. The story captures your heart and makes you want to listen.

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

She is always at the top of her game.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Ian and Judith first kiss. Their attraction for each other is sizzling and it comes through loud and clear..

Any additional comments?

This is such a good book. The chemistry between Judith and Ian, the long time friendship between Judith and Frances-Katherine keeps you glued to the book to it's finish. Then after you're done, you want more. This book will not disappoint and can't wait to start the next installment.

Narrator ruins the book!

The narrator was horrible, even to the point of being so grating and the Scottish accents were just yelling in a gruff voice and most characters sounded the same but I suffered until the end to hear the story which was good. Very disappointed and I won't be listening to the rest of the series.

love this book

this is truly a wond er rful love story with some good twists and turns.

A must read!

Love it. Great story. Great characters. Wish it had a sequel for Alex and Garry!

Couldn't Put It Down!!!

Would you consider the audio edition of The Secret to be better than the print version?

I listened to the book in one day!! I love historical fiction. Interesting story line with romance, a little sex (not porn), and humor. I laughed quite a few times. The only thing I don't like about this book is that it doesn't continue. I like series that continue so you get to know the characters, but is a nice filler for series books I am waiting to come out.

What other book might you compare The Secret to and why?

I am not so sure what I would compare it to, but if you like Scots that are loyal and romance it is a nice filler to help pass time waiting for Diana Gabaldon to write her next book...but I will have to check out more of Jillian Garwood's books. Right now I am in the middle of Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks also pretty good this is one I might compare to this book.

Which character – as performed by Susan Duerden – was your favorite?

I only liked her female and children voices. When she did the male voices I felt like I was listen to a person who speaks Italian try to speak English with a Scottish brogue. I could just be me, but in my minds eye I was not seeing Scots I was seeing Italians.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, I did want a quick listen, but I thought it was a series of books about the same family. So I figure I could read more when I had a day here and a day there. I am a binge reader. I like listen when I have free time to scrapbook, so I like something quick when I do that.

Any additional comments?

I would definitely recommend this book! I am going to telling my friend about it today!

Couldn't put the book down

Any additional comments?

I loved this book. I had not read a medieval romance in a while and could not put this book down. Definitely worth the credit and compelled me to get the next book in the series. I will definitely listen to this one again. Strongly recommend.