Step into the misty moors and rugged castles of the Scottish Highlands with Julianne MacLean’s Highlander series, a collection of historical romance novels that sweep readers into a world of fierce warriors, bold heroines, and heart-pounding passion. Launched in 2011, this USA Today bestselling series blends adventure, clan rivalries, and sizzling chemistry, making it a must-read for fans of tartan-clad romance.
With its vivid portrayal of Scotland’s wild landscapes and turbulent history, the Highlander series invites you to escape into tales where love conquers all—even the fiercest of feuds. Whether you’re new to historical romance or a seasoned reader, MacLean’s storytelling will leave you longing for a kilted hero of your own.
How the Highlander Series Began
Julianne MacLean, a Canadian author with a knack for crafting emotionally charged romances, launched the Highlander series in 2011 with Captured by the Highlander. Inspired by the rich history and rugged allure of the Scottish Highlands, MacLean aimed to create stories that blended historical accuracy with passionate love stories. Her background in English literature and her love for travel—having lived in places like New Zealand and England—infused the series with a vivid sense of place and culture.
The series was born during a resurgence of interest in Scottish romance, fueled by works like Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander. MacLean carved her niche by focusing on standalone novels, each featuring new characters, allowing readers to dive into any book without needing prior context. This approach, paired with her talent for weaving complex characters, made the series an instant hit among romance enthusiasts.
The Heart of the Highlander Series
The Highlander series comprises six books, including a prequel short story, each set against the backdrop of clan wars and Jacobite rebellions. Key titles include Captured by the Highlander, where Lady Amelia Sutherland is abducted by Duncan MacLean, a fierce warrior seeking revenge, only to find love in the chaos. In Claimed by the Highlander, Lady Gwendolen resists the charms of Angus “The Lion” MacDonald, her clan’s conqueror, sparking a battle of wills and hearts.
Seduced by the Highlander introduces Lachlan MacDonald, a cursed laird whose romantic entanglements doom his lovers, until he meets Lady Catherine, an amnesiac seeking her past. Return of the Highlander follows Larena Campbell, a Scottish heiress determined to save her father, as she navigates danger and desire with her captor, Darach MacDonald. Themes of loyalty, redemption, and forbidden love run through each novel, with strong heroines who defy expectations and heroes who balance brute strength with vulnerability.
MacLean’s style is immersive, blending steamy romance with historical details like the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion. The Scottish Highlands come alive through her descriptions of misty glens, stone fortresses, and the clash of swords, making each book a sensory journey. Her focus on standalone stories ensures accessibility, while recurring characters and clans tie the series together for devoted fans.
Why the Highlander Series Resonates
The Highlander series has captivated readers with its blend of adventure and romance, earning praise for its compelling characters and evocative settings. Fans on platforms like Goodreads laud MacLean’s ability to craft heroines who are both fierce and relatable, resonating with modern readers who crave stories of empowerment. The series’ focus on Scottish culture—complete with kilts, brogues, and clan pride—taps into a timeless fascination with the Highlands, making it a staple in the historical romance genre.
MacLean’s work has also contributed to the enduring popularity of Scottish romance, inspiring new authors and keeping the subgenre vibrant. With millions of copies sold worldwide and translations in over a dozen languages, the Highlander series remains a beloved escape for readers seeking passion and adventure. Its standalone format makes it easy to revisit or discover anew, ensuring its place in romance fans’ hearts.
- Publication Years: 2011–2016
- Number of Books: 6 (including a prequel short story)
- Awards: Four-time RITA finalist, Booksellers’ Best Award winner
Grab Captured by the Highlander and dive into Julianne MacLean’s world of rugged Scots and fearless heroines. Your Highland adventure awaits!