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Whisky made her forget. One man’s love will help her remember.

He could have walked away when he learned of his bride’s secret — that she is a raging alcoholic. But Brogan Mackintosh is not the kind of man to turn a blind eye to someone in need. He battled his own demons and won the fight against drink years before. Facing the challenges head on, like the battle hardened warrior he is, he is determined to help his new bride overcome the demons that haunt her. And he might even learn the truth surrounding the murders of her husband and infant son.

Mairghread Mactavish isn’t sure she can continue to breathe anymore without the aid of wine and whisky. Plunging herself into the dark abyss of drunkenness was the only place where she could catch glimpses, bits and pieces of her memory from the night her world was torn apart. When she learns the truth about the man she is to marry — a man who has murdered more than one wife and raped countless other women — she makes a desperate decision to marry Brogan Mackintosh instead. Brogan offers her more than a way out of marrying a murderer, however. He might be the only man who can give her back the life she once lived.

This is a story about overcoming grief and alcoholism and finding true love in your darkest hours.

484 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 25, 2017

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About the author

Suzan Tisdale

84 books664 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author, storyteller and cheeky wench, SUZAN TISDALE lives in the Midwest with her verra handsome carpenter husband. All but one of her children have left the nest. Her pets consist of dust bunnies and a dozen poodle-sized, backyard-dwelling groundhogs – all of which run as free and unrestrained as the voices in her head. And she doesn’t own a single pair of yoga pants, much to the shock and horror of her fellow authors. She prefers to write in her pajamas.
Suzan writes Scottish historical romance/fiction, with honorable and perfectly imperfect heroes and strong, feisty heroines. And bad guys she kills off in delightfully wicked ways.
She published her first novel, Laiden’s Daughter, in December, 2011, as a gift for her mother. That one book started a journey which has led to more than twenty published titles. To date, she has sold more than 750,000 copies of her books around the world. They have been translated into Italian, French, German, and Spanish.
You will find her books in digital, paperback, and audiobook formats.

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5 stars
337 (60%)
4 stars
165 (29%)
3 stars
46 (8%)
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4 (<1%)
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9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for TJ.
3,029 reviews207 followers
June 27, 2017
4.5/5.0

I can totally understand why some people might have a harder time with this story than other Scottish romance offerings - at least in the beginning. It isn't the light, fluffy stuff many expect from a Scottish Highland romance. It isn't even the war torn romance that might encompass a more serious Scottish historical.

This story explores the horrible disease of alcoholism from the very unique, medieval perspective of the heroine rather than any male character - a twist in and of itself! It is hard to read and even harder to like the main character of Mairghread - at least in the first half of the story. She is a mean, viscous drunk! Even though we understand the extreme pain and suffering that has caused her condition, it is hard to see her treat those who love her, especially the wonderful hero, Brogan, and are trying to help her. The thing is, however, that it is realistic. It doesn't sugarcoat the pain and struggle to overcome this horrible disease. But, that's the actual beauty in the overall story. We get to watch her overcome it and become the beautiful, kind, caring person she was before tragedy struck.

So, if readers can persevere, through the first few chapters, they will get to experience a beautiful love story develop. And, the second half of the book is classic Tisdale! Twists and turns one can never guess! While the final conflict fell into the predictable, it was a thoroughly enjoyable ride - and a very enlightening experience overall. VERY well done!
Profile Image for Kelsie Maxwell.
430 reviews72 followers
May 12, 2018
This series just gets better and better! Definitely a must-read.
Profile Image for Tonya.
278 reviews11 followers
July 12, 2017
Wow, I was totally shocked by this book. Having read the majority of Suzan's books, this one is quite different. It's more intense as most stories are that deal with alcoholism. Ms. Tisdale does an amazing job with a character who is deep into her cups. Brogan is so heart meltingly sigh worthy and my newest book boyfriend. Great story!
Profile Image for Kathy Brickert.
3,025 reviews11 followers
July 13, 2017
Wonderful read

Another great story from a fabulous author. Love seeing the links to other characters and past stories. Exciting, yet still full of humor! Loved the lady archers! Good read, don't miss it#
Profile Image for Patricia.
837 reviews
July 9, 2017
DRIVEN TO DRINK

Disasters impact on our psyches different ways.
This book, in some ways, explores how the loss of a spouse can hit a person, as well as some of the challenges of alcoholism and the compassion needed to he!p an alcoholic - or any other addict - save themselves.
Susan Tisdale is an experienced crafter of new worlds for people to crawl into. That experience shows in this book. The characters are strong, each interacting with the others as if they are gears in fine clock works. The various stories play out like the movements of the hands, and the. Hiking of the bells, perfectly as they must, but not necessarily in regular cadence.
Indeed, the unexpected turns are the crowning glory of the book, from the first chapter to the final rescue of the damsel in distress.
This book can be read alone, but reading the others in the series strengthens the characters.
Profile Image for Bigedsgirl1.
345 reviews48 followers
January 21, 2023
Another exciting medieval highlander romance by Suzan Tisdale! Brogan's Promise is filled with surprising plot twists, humorous dialogue, unforgettable primary and secondary characters, and exhilarating action scenes that kept me riveted to each and every page. I have developed an addiction to Ms. Tisdale's suspenseful highlander romance novels and I am looking forward to my next fix.
Profile Image for Patricia.
1,703 reviews45 followers
July 3, 2017


          I must say I fell in love with this book and read the whole thing in one day . Brogan and Mairghread are such a great couple , they went through a lot to be together . I will say that there are some really hard parts to read because it deals with alcoholism.  So let me introduce you to Brogan and Mairghread .  
     Mairghread has had a lot happen in her life . She has become a drunk , a nasty mean drunk , to hide the pain of the loss of her husband and son. This is the only way she can survive the agony of the deaths and get bits and pieces of her memories back . Brogan Macintosh is battling his own demons loving the love of his life too early , he has promised his love that he will love again but he can't . He has been down the drunken road also, he is pushed into his marriage but his sister n law and a couple of meddling ladies . Will they survive each other and will they make it through and see the light of day on the other side . 
    The characters in this book are very complex . Brogan is the type of guy you want to have in your life . He is strong, sexy and so lovable. He has gone through so much in his life you can't help but love him from the very beginning . As you read the book you really start to care for this man and want him to help Mairghread heal and get to the bottom of what really happened . He has his fun side and such a caring side . It breaks your heart some of the stuff he helps Mairghread through . What I loved about him is that he stood up for Mairghread and fought for her when she couldn't do it herself .
  Mairghread was a little annoying to me at first , I really kind of wanted to shake her but as you read you will find out the demons she is fighting . She is a strong character but is weak at the beginning because of the tragedy that has happened to her. You can really feel her pain and angst . Watching her go through detox was horrible but she was a fighter and came through . Then you see her becoming a strong woman who will fight for her love and for the clan . She really toughens up and becomes the head of the clan and does it well . She loves all those in the family and the clan .  They are the best for each other and make such a great pair . They are not only in love with each other they are friends . 
  Of course we also have a supporting cast of characters and I must say Gertie and Tilda were my favourite characters . They are so funny and remind my so much of meddlesome aunts that only want good things happen to the ones they love . They were the fun part of the book . Along with Henry, Liam and Reginald . The one scene with those three and Brogan at the end of the book will have you laughing . Not going to tell you , you will have to read the book to find out . And of course with all the fun loving characters we have the one that is absolute evil. This book has two of the  Aymer MacTavish and Countermauche the Frenchman bent on destroying Mairghread . They are so evil I am not even going to tell you I will let you read for yourself . 
     I couldn't believe how fast I read this book . It sucked me in and I couldn't stop reading , I will admit that some of it was hard to read but it was told with such compassion you couldn't help but fall in love with the lead characters . You will be reading through the night with this book . If you like hot men in kilts and woman who are strong and weak at the same time . This is the book for you . You should really add this book to your summer reading list . Check it out . You will not be disappointed 
was given this book by the publisher and this is my honest review . 
Profile Image for April.
1,831 reviews76 followers
July 6, 2017
Brogan's Promise by Suzan Tisdale is a one of those WOW stories, that you never forget. Book #3 but can be read as a stand alone.

I absolutely loved everything about this story, yes, including the villian. What an amazing read, well worth the wait. I couldn't put it down, read it in one setting. An edge of your seat kind of book!

Well written with an enjoyable cast of characters who are strong and brave. The plot is most intriguing. The H/H are a good match. The story flows seemingly. Ms. Tisdale did an outstanding job in bringing across to the reader the consequences of alcoholism to family, friends and the struggles to overcome. What a gut-wrenching tale of grief, despair, betrayal, mystery, and romance.
Ms. Tisdale manages to give readers a glimpse, with clarity, of the cause and effect of alcoholism. The suspense in "Brogan's Promise" is breathtaking, as well as intriguing. I am in awe how Ms. Tisdale managed to pull this story together with all the different facets and made the reader feel as though they were right with the heroine as she fought her demons, came to terms with her weakness, and grief, to find healing and learn the truth of the tragic event that changed her life forever. I don't believe Brogan could have been anymore determined, patient or kinder to his new bride, even after the tragedy she believes was her fault. He was a savior in more ways than one. An absolute true hero in every sense of the word.
Have tissues at the ready as you will need them. I absolutely would recommend "Brogan's Promise"!! Well done, indeed, Susan Tisdale! I can't wait to read the next installment. A definite keeper and must read.

Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Profile Image for Alison.
788 reviews6 followers
July 4, 2017
This is the story of Mairghread Mactavish and Brogan Mackintosh. Mairghread is so lost in grief over her husband and infant sons murders that she turns to wine and whiskey in a bid to ease some of her suffering. She doesn't really drink to forget she drinks to remember.That is how deep her grief goes. Brogan is a widowed Highland warrior who has no desire to remarry until he meets Mairghread with her lovely hair and emerald green eyes. One look into those eye's and he decides then and there that he will marry her, but what he doesn't know is how addicted to the drink she really is. Where many men might have run once they found out he doesn't and decides he wants to help her because after all he was there at one point in his life as well. Mairghread believes that she was the one that murdered her husband, her infant son, two guards, and then turned the knife on herself. Can Brogan convince her that she didn't and can he uncover the truth of the matter? Suzan Tisdale is simply amazing and the way she addressed alcoholism is incredible. As I read this book it was almost like I was there not just watching everything that was happened, but being a part of it all. I felt felt like I was a part of clan Mactavish. This book is a must read and will keep you excited waiting for the next book.
Profile Image for Ginny.
71 reviews4 followers
July 15, 2017
Brogan’s Promise – a touching story of the widow Mairghread Mactavish whose life fell apart when her husband and child were killed and turned to drinking to deal with her hurt and guilt. Her maid Gertie, seeks the help of Rose Mackintosh when she finds out her mistress will be forced to marry a notaries Frenchman known for his cruelty –and to some—the murders of his previous wives.
Brogan Mackintosh, brother of Frederick and Ian Mackintosh, an honorable and truthful man --who also a widower—turned to drinking when he lost his wife to illness. It was only an accident with a family member and his father’s beating and help, did he was able to sober up.
Brogan was not keen in marry Mairghread -since he still loved his deceased wife and vow never to marry again. It was only when Rose invited the woman and Brogan met her for the first time and knowing her fate if she married the Frenchman did he agree. It wasn’t until several days after marrying Mairghread that he realized something wasn’t right with his new wife. It did not take him long to figure out his wife was addicted to drinking.
With Brogan’s help and promise not to leave Mairghread’s side, he helped his new wife to withdrawal from the effects of not drinking. It was through his help that she began her recovery and finally began to remember what actually happened the night her husband and child died; learning who was actually in fault of the loss of her family.
Suzan Tisdale done it again, she weaves a wonderful story that makes you shake your head in disbelief and laughter. If you haven’t read the previous books in this series you should, just to get to know the other characters mentioned in this novel. Great thing is, that all of her books stand alone, there is really no particular order to read them.
Profile Image for Natasha Lane.
Author 17 books75 followers
September 21, 2017
Such a great story. I was captivated the entire time. The author actually made me feel like I was in Scotland. Combine her descriptions of the Scottish land with her strong grasp on the Scottish tongue and I felt like I was standing among the characters' keep. Additionally, she had such great supporting characters that brought more than enough humor personality to the story. Overall, a great read. Where it fell short for me was in the writing itself.

I don't really like to be spoon fed a novel and there seemed to be a lack of trust between the author and her readers. Sometimes the author would be repetitive or over-explain dialogue/situations that had already been made clear. Honestly, this was so frustrating because the story itself was good but execution made me roll my eyes a few times. There was so much telling and not enough showing.

Beyond that, some of the climatic scenes were very anticlimactic for me. Instead of the author going into detail about the character's physical reactions or diving into their head, she relied on quick descriptions to push through these moments. She switched character povs often which was frustrating, as well.

Still, overall this is a great novel and never before have I wanted to travel Scotland to find a hot Scot! ;)
Profile Image for Petula.
2,875 reviews77 followers
July 3, 2017
Mairghread Mactavish fell into the wine flagon when her husband and son were murdered and now three years later is still there. The old women who have cared for her are desperate to find her a husband before her uncle returns with an evil Frenchman.
Brogan Mackintosh had his own battle with the booze when his wife died and doesn't want to marry again.
Our hero is a very good man who will protect anyone weaker than himself. In this story he will have to be at his strongest mentally and emotionally.
Our heroine has not been able to remember what happened that night, but someone explained it to her. That is what has caused her problems and turned her into a bad tempered drunk.
This is a very emotional story that might upset those that can relate to the problem . Our author deals with it by pulling no punches but also turning it into a wonderful book. There are lots of much happier things happening as well, and some great characters to meet in this most unusual clan.
You will also be able to catch up with some old friends from previous books in the series.
I loved it.
Profile Image for Maria .
2,337 reviews22 followers
July 2, 2017
Brogan's promise overall was a very good read. The story is complexed because the heroine Mairghread has a severe addiction. Therefore, she was difficult to love. Brogan's Mackintosh who is our hero, he was very easy to love. I believe he was loved by many readers prior to him having his own story. We got to know him and knew a little of what he went through. So, here in his story he goes through a lot with Mairghread. She is abusive to him because of her addiction and it takes a very long time for her to redeem herself. You get to understand her somewhat once you read why she has fallen into chaos. You also feel for her once truths start to be revealed. Brogan promises her he will basically never give up on her. He is a saint to endure the abuse. He is a fierce warrior, but at times you feel he has taken too much. This one was not my favorite in the series, but it was still very good. Just stick with it and you will enjoy it as a whole.
Profile Image for Yolanda.
246 reviews
July 2, 2017
Scottish historical romance at it's best. And oh what a hero; Brogan is what all heroes should be, honorable, caring, trustworthy and totally swoon worthy! I absolutely loved this story and know I will go back and read it again in the future. Suzan Tisdale has a gift for taking you into the story and making you feel like you are right there watching the characters in person. The good characters were enchanting and I found myself caring for them all. The villains were so evil you could feel the emotional pull of wanting them caught. This is a must read for anyone who enjoys Scottish historical romance. I received this book for an honest review and can honestly highly recommend it!
646 reviews8 followers
July 4, 2017
Love conquers

Being the child of a chronic alcoholic, I was a little hesitant to read this one. I should have known that Suzan Tisdale would treat this subject with depth and understanding as well as love. Both the hero and heroine have problems with drinking but both started their problem with the loss of their spouses. How these two conquer their problems, find and heal each other and fight a common villain is a story not to be missed! Well done Suzan Tisdale! Very well done!
Profile Image for Maria Dariotis .
770 reviews18 followers
July 3, 2017
Brogan' Promise by Suzan Tisdale

What a heartbreaking story, Mairghread Mactavish is a woman who has known despair and the worst kind of grief and found temporary relief that drink brought. Brogan Mackintosh is a highland warrior who's known his share of grief. They're thrown together in marriage that both didn't want, but something in Mairghread touches him and he vows to help her heal, together they will unlock the mystery of her husbands and child's murder.
This is not your typical Highlander romance but I guarantee that you will not be disappointed it's a wonderful story of second chance at love.

I received a complimentary copy from the author for my honest unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Tammy Nitschke Sokol.
769 reviews2 followers
June 29, 2017
Another foregone night of no sleep...

Totally worth it to read Brogan's story!!!!! Loved every minute of it.... but of course the villainous dirty parts!!!!! Egad!!!!! Horrible man..... good riddance..... I have much anticipation for the next one. I'm curious!!!!! So fun and exciting!!!! Even stories, people, and takes of long ago can triumph over addition, greed, and spoiled men!!!!! ;-) Thank you Suzan Tisdale for your wonderful journey once again!!!!!
Profile Image for Lisa C.
985 reviews21 followers
July 5, 2017
This is a very in depth look at alcoholism, and definitely worth the read. Brogan is now one of my favourite heroes, as he has such heart, compassion and patience. I laughed, worried, cried and cheered throughout this book - what more could you ask for?
Profile Image for Kathy.
1,088 reviews3 followers
June 30, 2017
The portrayal of alcoholism and the drying out process in this book was so true to life! The anguish and heartbreak that that addiction causes was evident through the story. A heartwarming tale of second chances at love. A few amusing scenes and characters make for a delightful Highland romance!
577 reviews4 followers
July 3, 2017
Second chance to Love

Excellent book written by Susan Tisdale!! I liked the way she dealt with the problem of the addiction of alcohol. Brogan' Promise has ups and downs, good and evil. The best part is friendship and Love!!
7 reviews
July 3, 2017
Loved This Book

This book was very hard to put down. Story was great and holds your interest all the way to the end. Such an unusual story. Loved this book. 👍
228 reviews1 follower
July 3, 2017
Love this book!

Ms Suzan writes a tale of great struggles faced, growing love, and overcoming grief that will keep you reading into the night!
15 reviews
Read
July 26, 2017
I am totally addicted to Suzan's stories. Love her work and the always extra.
42 reviews
July 16, 2017
This is one of the best books Susan has done. She includes a problem that many people have had to overcome. Brogan and Mairghread are the key players in this book and have to overcome many obstacles before they have their happy ever after. Well done Susan you never disappoint me.
Profile Image for Sandra Standefer.
383 reviews4 followers
August 24, 2017
Thoroughly Enjoyed

I loved Brogan and Mairghread story! Both had similar life events happen to them and Brogan is there to help and support Mairghread. I loved that the characters from her other books made appearances and are intertwined in this book, but definitely a stand alone story! I thoroughly enjoy Suzan's books and this one ranks up there. Definitely recommend this one!!
Profile Image for Vivian Rossi.
14 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2018
What a Promise kept!

I am so happy to have journeyed with Brogan! What an amazing.story of love, commitment, and overcoming!
Suzanne Tisdale takes you on an amazing ride with ups, downs, twists and turns. With family coming through at just the right time! Brogan's Promise
....another wonderful Love story! Definately worth loosing sleep.to read!
689 reviews1 follower
August 21, 2017
Brogan's Promise

Rose had shown amazing intuition when she suggested that Brogan marry Margraid. She was a drunk! He had been and almost for the same reason, the loss of their spouses. After drying her out and getting her to live once again, they started to unravel the mystery of her first husbands death and that of her child. A jealous uncle was the cause of all her pain and that of most of her clan. Proving their susp
Profile Image for Lori Quick.
301 reviews4 followers
July 10, 2017
Brogan's Promise by Suzan Tisdale is by far one of her best works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
78 reviews4 followers
Read
December 4, 2017
Love the Mackintoshes and Mclaren. This was a great read. Keeps hope and Love alive. Need more of these Mackintoshes and Mclaren!!
16 reviews
November 6, 2017
Brogan's Promise

Love this series so much I have bought every one can't wait for black Richards story I'd recommend these books to anyone who likes a good romance
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews

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