Highland intrigue, mistaken identity, and a marriage born from deception—this story has it all. From the first page, I was swept into a world of clan rivalries, secrets, and a slow-burning romance that refuses to be rushed. With vivid atmosphere and strong emotional tension, this book offers a thoroughly satisfying Scottish historical read.
The Highlander's Substitute Wife by Terri Brisbin
Series: Highland Alliances #1
Genres: Historical Romance, Scottish

She’s the best wife…

…he never wanted!

Ross MacMillan lifts his bride’s veil…and discovers it’s not the woman he’d agreed to marry but her beautiful younger sister, Ilysa MacDonnell! The new MacMillan chieftain must accept Ilysa as his wife, for retaining his clan’s lands depends on her father’s support. But why is she there? Are her aims to help him or her father? Drawing out Ilysa’s secrets will kindle an alliance more powerful—and passionate!—than Ross ever imagined…

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Review

Ross MacMillan’s life is changed forever after the Campbell attack that kills his uncle and leaves him clan chief. Now responsible for protecting his people, Ross knows that alliances must be forged quickly—and that means marriage. His union with Lilidh MacDonnell is arranged by proxy, but when trickery is afoot and a different bride is delivered in her place, his carefully laid plans crumble before his eyes.

Ilysa MacDonnell, banished years earlier to a nunnery by her cruel father, has made peace with a quiet life of service. But when warriors arrive in the dead of night to drag her from safety, she finds herself forced into marriage with the new MacMillan chieftain—a man who sees her as the embodiment of his enemy’s deceit. Fearful yet resilient, Ilysa must find her footing in a clan that views her with suspicion.

Ross, torn between duty and mistrust, struggles to see beyond his anger. Yet as the days unfold, he begins to glimpse the truth: Ilysa’s courage and kindness stand in stark contrast to her father’s treachery. Their bond grows in stolen glances and hesitant words, even as danger tightens around them. Treachery, spies, and old feuds threaten to destroy them before love can take root.

The author does a wonderful job weaving political tension with emotional vulnerability. The pacing balances strategy and romance, giving readers both the pulse of clan warfare and the tenderness of two guarded hearts learning to trust. Ilysa’s transformation—from frightened outcast to quietly defiant heroine—was beautifully handled, and Ross’s slow shift from suspicion to protectiveness made the romance feel earned.

While some parts moved more slowly than others, the story’s depth and emotional weight kept me fully invested. The Highland setting, laced with danger and loyalty, creates the perfect backdrop for a love story that feels both powerful and fragile.

All in all this was a richly woven Highland romance full of deception, honor, and hard-won trust. Perfect for readers who love strong heroines, noble warriors, and just the right amount of intrigue.

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