Kaid MacLeod’s clan has been dealt a staggering blow, leaving many of their kin slaughtered where they stood, including his father. Haunted by the fact that he couldn’t save them, Kaid craves vengeance, but not through combat. Too many souls have been lost already. Instead, they will settle for peace by whatever means necessary. Their only chance is to kidnap his archenemy’s intended, who has been rumored to be traveling through Scotland, and use her to negotiate an end to the bloodshed.
Ever since she was young, Delilah Canterbury has had to think on her feet and forge her own path in life, a path she has always hoped would end in finding a place at King James’ court. Her dream comes true and she not only gains the King’s favor, she’s invited into his rooms for an enchanting evening. And yet, the next thing she knows, she’s been cast out, her dreams and her reputation in shreds. She is saved by a team of female spies, who take her in and teach her their ways.
Now Delilah must go on her first mission, impersonating Lady Elizabeth, a noblewoman’s daughter and the fiancée of a powerful Scottish Laird. As planned, Kaid takes the bait and she’s poised to entrap him…but she can’t help but wonder what it would like to be with him in truth.
Will she give in to her desires and risk everything? Could a love born under deception ever grow to anything more than pain and strife for those souls who yearn for anything but.
Madeline Martin is a New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, and international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance with books that have been translated into over twenty-five different languages.
She lives in sunny Florida with her two daughters (known collectively as the minions), two incredibly spoiled cats and a man so wonderful he's been dubbed Mr. Awesome. She is a die-hard history lover who will happily lose herself in research any day. When she's not writing, researching or 'moming', you can find her spending time with her family at Disney or sneaking a couple spoonfuls of Nutella while laughing over cat videos. She also loves research and travel, attributing her fascination with history to having spent most of her childhood as an Army brat in Germany.
Check out her website for book club visits, reader guides for her historical fiction, upcoming events, book news and more: https://madelinemartin.com
Review For: The Mercenary Maidens Series Highland Ruse by Madeline Martin is book Two. This is the story of Kaid MacLeod and Delilah Canterbury. I have read the previous book 'Highland Spy' (and Loved It!) but feel this is can easily be a standalone book if you choose to do so. Delilah is the daughter of a poor family with about 15 kids. When Delilah is sent off to Court to work in King James household she is happy to do so. Then she catches King James's eye and they have a passionate night together where Delilah thinks it will lead to a better standing with him. But King James kicks just treats her as a one night stand. So when Delilah is approached to go to Scotland to become a Spy, Delilah goes forward to do so. Delilah knows there is no life left for her at the court after what she did with the King. After Delilah's training she is sent on a mission alone to act as Lady Elizabeth Seymour who is to marry in to the MacKenzie Clan, Delilah is to be the decoy. Kaid's enemy is Laird MacKenzie who has all but destroyed Kaid's clan. Laird MacKenzie is an evil man and Kaid just wants peace and for his clan to heal. So he thinks to take Laird MacKenzie betrothed, Elizabeth Seymour to help achieve that goal. Kaid and Delilah's feelings instantly start to grow but what will happen with the truth comes out about Delilah and her mission. I just loved their exciting story! Ms. Martin is always a 'must go to' author...her books always leave you wanting more of her stories! https://twitter.com/soapsrus68https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
This is the second book in the Mercenary Maidens series. What can I say? Madeline Martin delivers yet another awesome maiden! Every single time I pick up a book by Madeline, I never get disappointed. I felt like I was there with Delilah on her first mission. The way the scenes are set up gets me spell bound and I can't turn the page fast enough! I felt the anger and hurt with Kaid. I fell in love with the love that Kaid and Delilah came to have. I don't like giving much away in my reviews... If you love to read about broken women turned spies... this is the book and series that you should pick up and read! you will not regret it! Madeline has quickly become my favorite Historical Author!
Highland Ruse is book 2 in her Mercenary Maidens Series. Book 1 being Highland Spy. This is a must read. I absolutely Loved Delilah and Kaid's story. Delilah is joined by her Mercenary Maiden "Sisters" in this book. It could be read as a stand-alone but it is much better if you have read book 1 first. And it also makes it much easier to know and understand the characters.
I don't want to give away any spoilers to the story. So I'll just say this.
Highland Ruse is full of intrigue. It's filled to the brim with Soo many emotions that made me at times feel intense anger, despair, betrayed, incredible pain, tears of heartbreak. And on the other side the emotions I felt were hope, extreme happiness, tears of joy, unbreakable bonds and of course a incredible everlasting love that will stand the test of time.
I have read every book that Madeline Martin has had published. I've been reading them from the time she had her first book published. Every single one of her books and novellas are amazing and in my personal opinion ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️'s each.
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.”
This having been my first experience reading Madeline Martin i can say that i am not only impressed but hooked, i will be adding Madeline's collection to my personal library. Being an avid historical romance reader i can say that i am shocked to have missed the first in Madeline Martin's "Mercenary Maidens series "Highland Spy". Rest assured that if you have also missed the first book in the series that you can safely enjoy book two "Highland Ruse" much like i did prior to reading book one.
The beginning of the story sets a tone of mystery and high expectation for heroine Delilah Canterbury. Spurned humiliated and seemly helpless Delilah is spirited away by a woman offering a life so titillating that even through her wall of misery Delilah cannot refuse.
Kaid MacLeod lives each day reliving the horror of his clan's slaughter, spurned by nightmares and the weight of failing those whom depended on him for protection. Only one man is responsible for the butchering of Kaid's people, the same man whom is to marry soon. Kaid cannot send his people to war in order to claim the vengeance his clan so deserves at the risk of loosing more lives. But by chance a different plan formulates in Kaid's mind, though the details turn his very stomach he knows that he must complete this mission not only for his people, but himself.
Delilah is on a mission, her first assignment alone she is determined to prove herself and not let the woman down who had taken her in and given her a life, strength, and purpose when she thought she had nothing else to live for. Traversing through the highlands under the guise of being another Delilah is thrown in the trap of Kaid MacLeod.
Kaid cannot believe his own fortune when his plan falls into place, his new gentle bred charge Elizabeth "Delilah" is invaluable to Kaid and his clan. Yet there is something about Elizabeth other then her beauty, her silent strength and gentle heart start to warm Kaid towards his forbidden fruit, a pawn for his scheme. Delilah posing as Elizabeth cannot help but smile internally at her fortune as she realizes the men whom have kidnapped her thinking her to be Elizabeth a gentle woman in route to her betrothed castle in the highlands are good nature-ed pliable men, this mission would prove easy finally securing her place in the all female team of magnificent spys.
As days and weeks pass both Kaid and Delilah struggle to hold onto their determination to not deviate from their missions. Little does each know that they are in for a surprise that could destroy everything that had each hoped for. Kaid is driven by the love he has for his people, Delilah driven to bring this man to justice, both vying for what they feel is right in their hearts. As the attraction and admiration between Kaid and Delilah grow, both are tormented by what they must do for those that are depending on them.
Delilah soon finds herself immersed in Kaids clan, surrounding her is evidence of loss and suffering yet these people accept her as one of her own. Torn between what is right and compromising her mission Delilah must make a choice. Will she choose her newly found love for Kaid and his people over her duties and put her very life at risk in order to save them? Can Kaid find another way to save his clan as well as keep Elizabeth for himself when "Elizabeth proves to not be who he expected?
Delilah a beautiful strong and captivating woman puts her life and personal ties at risk to help the man she has hopelessly fallen in love with. Kaid allows his heart and soul to ride away from his home in the form of Delilah. "His" woman going alone into the Lions den, his nemesis a man with a soul black enough to slaughter Kaid's defenseless women and children in cold blood. Each must trust in each other and work together as dark schemes and betrayals arise putting many lives at risk.
Each page of this story is infused with anticipation awaiting both Kaid and Delilah to spill theirs hearts and change each others life paths. After bnoth suffering such hardship in their pasts Kaid and Delilah deserve what is hidden in their hearts that both are too afraid to hope to come true. As both unexpected friends and foes surface around Kaid and Delilah they embark on a risk so great together that it could only be worth the greatest of rewards. A true tale of trust, bravery, and un-explainable love.
Book: Highland Ruse Author:Madeline Martin Release Date: 06/06/2023 Series: (The Mercenary Maidens, #2) Publisher: Oliver Heber Books Book Length: 319 pages Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags
Starting March 1602
Delilah has a night of passion giving up her maidenhead to King James. Then after a night of passion he drops her like a sack of potatoes. After all, she comes from a poor family of 15 children. She thought she would finally be a woman of status by means of coming to Court. Then after the royal dumping thinking her life is over she meets a mysterious woman. There she finds out her life is just beginning, but not as the King's mistress or courier, but that of a spy!
After a couple of years of training and perfecting her skills with weapons. However this is Delilah’s first mission as she switches places with Lady Elizabeth Seymour. Furthermore, she is playing the decoy as they are very similar in looks and physical appearance. This woman is the evil and vicious Laird MacKenzie’s betrothed and of course this is an arranged nuptial.
Kaid MacLeod's life has been filled with misery, death and disappointments. The MacKenzie Clan is an enemy who will continue attacking his clan and his people with his violence, murder and treachery. He wants a peace treaty, though his clan wants revenge. All Kaid needs is to find a crack in his armor per say, one perfected weakness.
He finally finds one in the name of Lady Elizabeth Seymour. This English lady and her entourage should be enroute to visit her betrothed. He happens to be his evil nemesis, Laird MacKenzie. Kaid MacLeod has one option and that is to kidnap Laird MacKenzIes betrothed. Kaid only wants to live in peace and harmony with his people. He needs Lady Elizabeth to help him achieve this goal. If not there is going to be more treachery, destruction, mass murders, and mayhem. Kaid does not think his clan could survive another annihilation.
What will Kaid do when he finds out he has been lied to and betrayed once again. Plus right on the cusp of love. Can a love even survive this type of betrayal? Will he accept Delilah’s lies and ultimate betrayal? So many lives are on the line. Will Kaid even be able to convince her to help him save his clan? These are two very different types of people who just want to feel safe, protected and loved.
Both Kaid and Delilah have been severely hurt and have suffered much disappointment, plus enough heartbreak to last them a lifetime! Can they mend their broken hearts, protect his clan and keep the lass who has his heart? You will have to read this spectacular book to find out.
This is the second book in Madeline Martin’s magnificent series: “The Mercenary Maidens. I just loved this clever tale! As I think any reader of Scottish historical romance will absolutely agree. I have read each and every book she has written since her debut. They are always beautifully written, exhilarating reads that I can never put down. Always leaving me breathless, a nail biter. Never knowing with anticipation what is going to happen next!
Have the Kleenex ready as “Highland Ruse” by Madeline Martin definitely was a definite heart puller! This story had me sobbing! When I get that emotional I know I am reading an extraordinary novel. I definitely can’t recommend this remarkable novel enough. A total delight and joy to read!
I received this book from the Oliver Heber Books that I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog through booksprout. All words, ideas, thoughts and opinions are my own.
I LOVED THIS BOOK! The second book in the serie. You do not have to read the first book to understand this sequel of the story. It is about a woman who is leaving her family to become a part of the Court by the King. After she let him take her virginity he does not want to see her anymore and that is where her life falls apart. But she meets a girl that takes her away and brings her to Scotland. She develops a lot in the time she is alone and learns to know a lot about herself. She grows with the time and gets to be an amazing strong woman. She learns to fight like a man and to work like a spy. They get a mission and from here there are a lot of action and drama. The story has a lot of emotions, drama, twists and turns, action, hot scenes, passion and friendship in it. The characters develops a chemistry that they cannot deny. It is so realistic written and it helps a lot that it is in dual POV. You feel like you are a fly that follows the main characters and you are there with them. I am amazed about the book and can only recommend it. I wish there will be a book about Donnan and Leasa. They fit so well together.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
This is Book 2 in Madeline's Mercenary Maidens series, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This is the story of Delilah Canterbury and Kaid MacLeod. Said desperately needs to save his clan from a vicious and heartless laird from a different clan. Kaid needs the help of Delilah to succeed, but there are many obstacles in their way.
Will Delilah agree to help him? Will an attraction form between them, or will they hate each other? Will Kaid be successful in what he needs to do, or will he and his clan be destroyed?
Read this very well-written story with very interesting characters to find out. The story moves at a very nice pace, and it has suspense, intrigue, humor and romance all rolled into one exciting and entertaining story. Highly recommended!
Delilah was used as a courtier in the court of King James. She is betrayed and possibly set up for ruin until she meets a mysterious woman that sets her on a path as a spy. Kaid McLeod has suffered terrible losses and must do anything to save his people from a rival clan. This story is an intricately woven plot of intrigue and romance. The story is so well crafted that you connect with the characters and find yourself transported to the setting with rich emotion. Lots of action and adventure leaves you turning the page with anticipation. Overall a well written satisfying read.
Deliliah Canterbury thought her life would change for the better when she gave herself to the King, she was wrong. She is now a spy on her first mission to pose as a decoy for Lady Elizabeth. Delialiah is captured by Kaid MacCleod whomwould.like her to help bring piece between his clan and her betroth. Things dont go as planned when Kaid and Deliliah fall in love and he finds out she is not Lady Elizabeth. Kaid asks Delilah to help his people aftter she finds out what MacKenzie did to.his clan. Now Delilah jas a new mission that has her betraying her.friends and the people she loves to help Kaid.
Kaid Aand Deliliah are just two people who wants to be love. Kaid is trying to do whats best for his clan without more bloodshed and Deliliah is just tryi g to completenher first.mission. They are so different but want the same results. Peace for Kaid and his people.
This is the first book I have read of Madeline Martins and hace thoroughly enjoyed it. The book just flowed and kept me. interested
Gave 5 stars so good. It is like when you find something so awesome you want to share. Book Highland Ruse was one of those. The author pulled me into the world of historical Scotland, and held me there from beginning to end. Story full of adventure, intrigue, romance, and much more. I felt a great liking for all the characters some broken, all with flaws. The author's imagination is boundless, and makes you believe you are a part of it, and anything is possible. I found I resented anything that took me away from reading,and kept me from finding what happened next, a real page turner. I will not tell any of story, because don't want to spoil it. It also had sensual love scenes, furthering the story, and helping you identify, and feel what they shared. I was stressed, because I was there, and didn't know how everything happening could work out, but it does. All of this author's standalone books are just as good. Don't miss the great joy of reading these books. As you can tell, I highly recommend this as I do all her books.
Delilah Canterbury is just one more unwanted female in a large family. She has been sent to the court of King James as a servant to a relative and catches the king's eye. That doesn't go quite as well as she hoped. A new and dangerous life is offered. Laird Kaid MacLeod is trying to pull his clan back together after a recasting battle. He needs to make a peace treaty before war wipes them all out. Our heroine is a strong and determined young woman who needs to prove herself. Our tormented hero has far too much weighing on his mind. A great adventure with tears, laughter and incredible fights. This is part of a series but easily read as a stand alone. You will however want to read more about our marvellous maidens. I loved it.
The first half of this book was great and I liked the interaction and chemistry between the hero and heroine. But the second half of the story dragged, and I found myself skimming the last 5 chapters because of the action (which bored me).
I liked that the hero and heroine got along well together and that the hero shared his past with the heroine. But I’m not sure if I missed it but the heroine did not share her past with the hero, which made me wonder if the hero really did love her because he did not know all of her.
Nevertheless, it was an entertaining read as it held my attention for the first half.
I loved it! While I used to read historical romances, I grew tired of the young inexperienced heroines who are swept off their feet by an older, more experienced hero. Madeline Martin has changed that classic recipe by featuring strong women, who are trained as spies, and are equals to their hunky heroes. For me, this is the perfect combination. I loved the strong women, who are realistic, and vulnerable, and can hold their own in whatever situation comes their way. I quickly went out and purchased Highland Spy, so I can see how this series begins.
I received an ARC for an Honest reviewMy heart broke for Delilah in the beginning! I was glad to see how strong she became! The chemistry between her and Kaid was hot! I enjoyed all the twists and turns in this book!! Loved it!
Very touching story. Delilah and Kaid I just loved. I absolutely loved all of the characters and the storyline so much. Good Good Read!! On to Book #3 with Sylvi. Wasn’t sure I wanted to read it as her character was so cold but after finishing this I’m starting it next. 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰💜💜💜💜💜
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 💋💋💋 Second in the Mercenary Maidens Series , this one centres on Delilah Canterbury, an ex mistress of the kings, turned out by him and society after spending one night in his bed . Having no prospects and nowhere to go she is recruited by Sylvi and taken for training in Scotland, five years on she ready to prove herself in her first solo mission. Her job is to stand in for Elizabeth the betrothed of a Highlander , Laird MacKenzie ,as it’s possible the young lady’s life is at risk . Using Delilah as a decoy , the team hope to capture and bring to justice those who wish her harm and deliver the real Elizabeth to her future husband Things run as expected to begin with, she’s abducted by Laird Kaid MacLeod and his friend Donnan, but after learning of the reasons behind their plot she finds it hard to carry out her duty and bring them to justice . The adventure that ensues is both heart-stopping and pulls no punches , from dramatic fight scenes to emotional reunions, this book runs at breakneck speed and is so difficult to put down . It’s a wonderful sequel , it’s highly enjoyable and you will be sad to see it end , I was .
I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review
Highland Ruse is the second book in The Mercenary Maidens series by Madeline Martin. I haven't had the pleasure of reading the first one yet, so can assure you that this book can easily be read as a stand-alone one.
Delilah Canterbury is one of 15 children in a poor family. She thought her fortunes had changed for the better when she went to Court and took the King's fancy. Unfortunately, he only wanted her for one night. Not being able to face her rejection she leaves Court and her life takes a turn that she could never imagine. She becomes a mercenary spy!
Kaid MacLeod is the new MacLeod Laird. His father and many of his people were murdered when their enemy, the MacKenzies raided the village and killed men, women and children. The MacLeods want vengeance but Kaid is sick of the endless fighting and deaths. He wants a peace treaty and finally finds a way to hopefully broker that peace.
Laird MacKenzie is to be wed to Lady Elizabeth Seymour. Kaid reckons that if he kidnaps her on her journey to the man that he can barter her for two things; peace and for the return of his father's sword that MacKenzie stole. After careful planning, he does manage to kidnap the woman. The only problem is that he hasn't kidnapped the real Lady Elizabeth Seymour, he has kidnapped her decoy who just happens to be Delilah.
Delilah's first solo mission is to act as a decoy, allowing Lady Elizabeth to reach her destination safely. Also if somebody does kidnap Delilah she has to then capture the person and have them answer for their crime.
The problem is that apart from Delilah finding herself liking Kaid, she also understands what he has gone through, and how important peace is between these two warring clans. She is only meant to allow Lady Elizabeth time to get to her wedding safely, then arrest Kaid. She's not Lady Elizabeth and she can't help Kaid, or can she?
What an amazing story this is. From the very first page, I was gripped. Poor Delilah's hopes being shattered by the King made me want to weep, and that was just the tip of the iceberg of emotions I felt during reading this book. The suspense of not knowing if Delilah would tell Kaid who she really is, and whether or not she could or would help him was nail-biting stuff. I couldn't read quickly enough to find out what was going to happen next.
The passion between Delilah and Kaid was explosive, even though both had reason to keep away from each other, they both found it more and more difficult. I love those will they won't they situations, especially when they finally give in!
The story and its outcome were very believable, enjoyable, and well worth my reading into the wee hours of the morning to finish it. I am definitely going to have to read the first book and the following books to this one in the series. I am sure they will be fabulous and I will recommend them as highly as I do this one.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers' copy of this book.
An interesting tale set in the early 1600s. Although it starts at the Royal Court in London the action is really set in Scotland. The story is credible and easy to follow. The heroine l falls for the hero whom she is suppose to capture. After a particularly hard battle to seat the correct Laird of the opposing clan both heroine and her are able to have a fairy tale ending.
Although this story is not set in a timeline that I would normally read I found it both interesting and enjoyable. I have rated this book 4 stars.
I obtained an ARC from Netgalley for my unbiased review. Thank you Frank for your review
I really did enjoy this book and I hope their is another book. Kaid MacLoed loses his father and some people during a raid. But for revenge he discovers his enemies betrothed is traveling through Scotland and he is going to abducting her will give him the leverage he desperately needs to end the slaughter and bring peace to his clan.Delilah Canterbury is pretending to be a Scottish laird’s betrothed to get just again Kaid. It was a great read.
Dishonored by a king at 15, Delilah could not go home. There were too many children there to burden her parents. Sylvi is the leader of a group of women that have skills that no man can guess. She takes Delilah under her protection and teaches her what she needs to know to become one of her women. When Lady Elizabeth is sent to Scotland to wed, there is fear of abduction so her father hires Sylvi’s group to ensure the lady gets to Laird MacKenzie safely. They decide to substitute Delilah for Lady Elizabeth and send both in different directions. Kaid MacLeod is bend on peace with Laird MacKenzie. He plans the abduction and it goes off without a hitch. Delilah is kidnapped and she just needs to delay Kaid until Lady Elizabeth reaches MacKenzie. A great story with deceit, honor, and love. Wonderful descriptions and adventure. Madeline Martin does it again with an exciting tale of Scotland Highlanders!
Delilah started out life as a poor person, of sixteen children she was number 8. She got the chance to train with Sylvi and she jumped at it. Laird Kaid MacLeod was a man with nightmares and needed to abduct Delilah, AKA Lady Elizabeth. This is one complicated plot, there are so many threads, I don't know how the author kept them all straight. It was one marvelous tale with battles, abductions, and trying to get to a place of relative safety. There are some sad spots where you just want to cry. The characters are very realistic and the descriptions are wonderful. The way the castle seemed to float atop the loch like a some magical apparition, all smooth stone and block construction. I loved the relationships that developed between the main characters. I could not put the book down. It is also very racy. I received this book from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed.
Highland Ruse is overall a well-written and satisfying story. It has a strong-minded, independent heroin, Delilah. It's hero, Kaid, is a fierce leader of his clan. This is Book 2 in the mercenary spy series, which is about a group of female spies. Delilah is hired to impersonate a lady of the Court, Lady Elizabeth, who is on her way to meet her betrothed. Kid kidnaps Delilah, thinking that she is Lady Elizabeth. He is trying to seek Justice first people and prevent further Warfare. The adventures begin from the there with a lot of action, drama, and a chemistry that is so hot between Delilah and Kaid. The characters in this book World developed in the storyline load. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next one. I received this book free in exchange for a review.
Such an amazing story. This could totally be read as a stand alone. Amazing from start to finish. Delilah is so brave and fearless when on a secret mission posing as another woman. Kaid just wants to do right by his people and kidnap the lady but several unexcused turns has them both second guessing their missions.
Delilah is the middle child of fifteen and was sent to work for a relative in the English court. Soon after arriving and losing her virtue, Delilah is approached by a woman named Sylvi and offered the opportunity of a lifetime. With no options, Delilah agrees to work with Sylvi.
After years of training and working to prove herself, Delilah is finally embarking on her first solo mission. Her job is to act a decoy and apprehend the people who are trying to abduct Lady Elizabeth and to ensure that Lady Elizabeth reaches her betrothed without incident.
All goes according to plan and Delilah is taken captive by Kaid MacLeod, Laird of the MacLeod's. Kaid mean Elizabeth no harm, but her betrothed, Seamus MacKenzie is another story. Haunted by the savage attack that left many in his village, including his father dead, Kaid needs a bargaining chip. He plans to ransom Elizabeth back to MacKenzie in exchange for his father's sword and the hope of peace.
Delilah employs several tactics to delay their journey and tries to harden her heart against Kaid. But when one of her plans goes awry and Kaid cares for them and then later she witnesses his nightmares and learns the truth, she begins to have doubts about Elizabeth's safety. Kaid tries to comfort Delilah and things start to heat up, but Kaid refuses to go any further. Kaid decides to leave the coach and travel on horseback, forcing Delilah to leave most of her possessions.
Worried that they will arrive too soon and ruin the plan, Delilah takes action and turns the tables on Kaid. Delilah tells Kaid who she is and proceeds to take him to Sylvi, but soon they cross onto Kaid's lands and Delilah realizes she has lost her advantage.
Kaid approaches Delilah with a new plan, asking her to impersonate Lady Elizabeth and help him find the lost MacKenzie heir, Torra. He feels that if Torra is restored to her rightful position, there can be peace between the clans. At first Delilah refuses, but when she meets a young orphan girl named Claire and learns the horrors the MacKenzie brought to the MacLeod's, she knows what she must do.
When things start to go bad, Kaid rushes to rescue the woman he loves. And Delilah turns to Sylvi for help. Things go from bad to worse and just when it seems all hope is lost, Ms. Martin is able to work a miracle and give Delilah and Kaid the HEA they deserve.
This book was well written, flowed non-stop from the first page until the last, there was action, sword fights, steamy love scenes, secrets, betrayals, heartache and moments when it seemed there was no way this was going to end well. There are cameos with Sylvi, Percy, Liv & Isabel as well as the introduction of several secondary characters that add so much depth to this story. This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title. I am happy to recommend this book and look forward to the next book in the series Highland Wrath (Sylvi's book!!!!)
*I am voluntarily leaving a review of an Uncorrected eARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
Kaid MacLeod is plagued by his nightmares. He needs to be a good Laird to his people, but guilt plaguing him, he needs to take revenge. He's not the kind of man who would kidnap Lady Elizabeth and her maid, but desperate times make for desperate measure as far as he's concerned. This seems to be the only way he can get to his nemesis to broker a peace that may give him and his people an opportunity to heal. Delilah Canterbury is out to better herself in the court of King James, instead she ends up ruined. One night with the king has her dreaming of power and wealth, but she's cast aside the very next morning. When Sylvi gives her an opportunity to never feel helpless because of a man again, she jumps at it. Now this is her first truly solo mission. She's the decoy to Lady Elizabeth and she's afraid of no man. Even expecting to be kidnapped, she's surprised when she finds her capturer polite and decent. Kaid and Delilah grow closer as they journey to his home, but it's Elizabeth that he wants not Delilah. Stuck in a no win situation she decides to turn him over for kidnapping, only to realize that she's lost her heart to him. She's willing to do what it takes to help him recover his mental peace and rebuild his lands, even if he doesn't really want or know the true her! How can he not help but love the woman who puts herself in danger for his people? He can only hope that she returns to him in one piece for him to show her how much she means to him!
Plot: 4.5/5 Characterisation: 4/5 Prose: 3.5/5 How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
I can't believe I put off this book for a month before returning to it. The prologue showed a pathetic naive Delilah whom I wasn't interested in at all. But that incident changed her into a stronger, courageous yet compassionate woman that I love for the rest of the book.
I'm pleasantly surprised with the portrayal of Kaid. He is a far cry from the usual Alpha of a typical Scottish Laird. He can hold his own in battle but what makes him a great leader is his love of his people. His artistic side made him more emotionally accessible.
The book started out slow with the growing attraction between Delilah and Kaid as she continues to deceive him on who she really is. But it began to pick up after Kaid knowing who she is not and Delilah having to choose a side and how to proceed.
I would recommend this book to those who love medieval Scottish romance with a bit of intrigue.
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
Madeline Martin has a powerful, distinct writing style that draws you into her stories and makes you feel as though you are living with her characters. This 2nd book in the Mercenary Maidens series is captivating from beginning to end. There is a blend of romance & suspense with unforgettable characters you can't help but fall in love with. We learn about Delilah’s past in this story and meet Kaid. Their story is heartwarming, though it contained some tragic events which brought tears to my eyes. There are certainly enough twists to keep you wanting to read to find out what will happen. I received this book for an honest review and am more than happy to recommend it. Ms Martin has quickly become one of my favourite authors.