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Highland Guard #7
The Hunter
The war for Scotland’s freedom continues as King Robert the Bruce battles on. At his command is an elite army of trained warriors, soldiers dedicated to their king, their country—and to the remarkable women they love.
Prized for his unbeatable tracking skills, Ewen “Hunter” Lamont accepts a dangerous assignment: locate a missing undercover courier. But this is no ordinary target. Ewen has met his prey before as “Sister Genna,” a fiery, forbidden woman forever etched in his memory after one stolen, sinful kiss. Now that he knows her real identity, he’s more determined than ever to keep her safe. But without the protection of the veil between them, fighting the allure of the beautiful lass may be the toughest battle this extraordinary warrior has ever faced.
After her ill-fated attempt three years ago to rescue her twin sister, Janet of Mar has found salvation acting as a royal messenger—until she surrenders to a darkly handsome warrior whose rough, sensual kisses stir feelings the woman in her can’t deny. But when betrayal leads to danger, and a crucial communiqué is put in jeopardy, Janet has no choice but to put her faith in the hunter who can find anything—perhaps even her heart.
Prized for his unbeatable tracking skills, Ewen “Hunter” Lamont accepts a dangerous assignment: locate a missing undercover courier. But this is no ordinary target. Ewen has met his prey before as “Sister Genna,” a fiery, forbidden woman forever etched in his memory after one stolen, sinful kiss. Now that he knows her real identity, he’s more determined than ever to keep her safe. But without the protection of the veil between them, fighting the allure of the beautiful lass may be the toughest battle this extraordinary warrior has ever faced.
After her ill-fated attempt three years ago to rescue her twin sister, Janet of Mar has found salvation acting as a royal messenger—until she surrenders to a darkly handsome warrior whose rough, sensual kisses stir feelings the woman in her can’t deny. But when betrayal leads to danger, and a crucial communiqué is put in jeopardy, Janet has no choice but to put her faith in the hunter who can find anything—perhaps even her heart.
380 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 25, 2013
154 people are currently reading
2579 people want to read
About the author
Monica McCarty
62 books2,971 followersWhat do you get when you mix a legal career, a baseball career, motherhood, and a love of history with a voracious reader? In my case, a Historical Romance Author.
Like most writers, I’ve always loved to read. Growing up in California there was always plenty to do outside, but all too often I could be found inside curled up with a book (or two or three). I started with the usual fare: The Little House on the Prairie series, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Hobbit, Watership Down, Nancy Drew, and everything by Judy Blume. Once I cleared off my bookshelf, I started swiping books from my mom. Some, like Sidney Sheldon’s The Other Side of Midnight, probably weren’t the most appropriate choice for a pre-adolescent—although they were definitely illuminating. I can still remember the look of abject horror on my mom’s Catholic-girl-face when I asked her what a virgin was. After that rather brief conversation, she paid a little closer attention to what had disappeared off her book shelf, and steered me in the direction of Harlequin and Barbara Cartland romances. I was hooked. I quickly read through the inventory of the local library and was soon buying bags of romances at garage sales.
In high school, with the encouragement of my father (who I think was a little concerned about the steady diet of romances), I read over eighty of the Franklin Library’s One Hundred Greatest Books ever written—including Tolstoy, Confucius, Plato, and the entire works of Shakespeare. Some of them were tough going for a teenager, but the experience would prove an invaluable foundation for college. After reading War and Peace, I wasn’t easily intimidated.
For some reason Monica decided to go into writing and not fashion.
After graduation, I loaded up the VW (Jetta not Bus) and trekked down I-5 to attend the University of Southern California, majoring in Political Science and minoring in English (see why all that reading helped!). I joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, and when I wasn’t studying or at football games, did my best to support the local bartending industry. Ah, the good old days.
With that kind of fun, four years of college wasn’t quite enough. So leaving Tommy Trojan behind, I traveled back up north to Palo Alto for three more years of study at Stanford Law School. Once I survived the stress of the first semester, law school proved to be one of the best times of my life—garnering me a JD, life-long friends, a husband, and an unexpectedly intimate knowledge of baseball. (See “The Baseball Odyssey” below).
Law School was also where I fell in love with Scotland. In my third year, I took a Comparative Legal History class, and wrote a paper on the Scottish Clan System and Feudalism. So I immediately dropped out of law school and went on to write Scottish Historical Romances…well no, not quite. You see, I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer. My father was a lawyer, I was a “poet” (i.e., not into math), and I love to argue. It seemed natural.
So I finished law school, got married, passed the CA bar, moved to Minnesota (with a few stops along the way), waived into the MN bar, worked as a litigator for a few satisfying years, moved back to CA, had a couple of kids, realized that a legal career and being a single parent for most of the year (due to husband's career) would be extremely difficult, and THEN decided to sit down and write.
And how did I end up writing romance? It’s not as divergent as it seems. What I loved about being a lawyer are the same things I love about being a writer—research and writing. The only thing missing is the arguing, but that’s what a husband and kids are for, right?
Like most writers, I’ve always loved to read. Growing up in California there was always plenty to do outside, but all too often I could be found inside curled up with a book (or two or three). I started with the usual fare: The Little House on the Prairie series, The Chronicles of Narnia, The Hobbit, Watership Down, Nancy Drew, and everything by Judy Blume. Once I cleared off my bookshelf, I started swiping books from my mom. Some, like Sidney Sheldon’s The Other Side of Midnight, probably weren’t the most appropriate choice for a pre-adolescent—although they were definitely illuminating. I can still remember the look of abject horror on my mom’s Catholic-girl-face when I asked her what a virgin was. After that rather brief conversation, she paid a little closer attention to what had disappeared off her book shelf, and steered me in the direction of Harlequin and Barbara Cartland romances. I was hooked. I quickly read through the inventory of the local library and was soon buying bags of romances at garage sales.
In high school, with the encouragement of my father (who I think was a little concerned about the steady diet of romances), I read over eighty of the Franklin Library’s One Hundred Greatest Books ever written—including Tolstoy, Confucius, Plato, and the entire works of Shakespeare. Some of them were tough going for a teenager, but the experience would prove an invaluable foundation for college. After reading War and Peace, I wasn’t easily intimidated.
For some reason Monica decided to go into writing and not fashion.
After graduation, I loaded up the VW (Jetta not Bus) and trekked down I-5 to attend the University of Southern California, majoring in Political Science and minoring in English (see why all that reading helped!). I joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, and when I wasn’t studying or at football games, did my best to support the local bartending industry. Ah, the good old days.
With that kind of fun, four years of college wasn’t quite enough. So leaving Tommy Trojan behind, I traveled back up north to Palo Alto for three more years of study at Stanford Law School. Once I survived the stress of the first semester, law school proved to be one of the best times of my life—garnering me a JD, life-long friends, a husband, and an unexpectedly intimate knowledge of baseball. (See “The Baseball Odyssey” below).
Law School was also where I fell in love with Scotland. In my third year, I took a Comparative Legal History class, and wrote a paper on the Scottish Clan System and Feudalism. So I immediately dropped out of law school and went on to write Scottish Historical Romances…well no, not quite. You see, I always knew I wanted to be a lawyer. My father was a lawyer, I was a “poet” (i.e., not into math), and I love to argue. It seemed natural.
So I finished law school, got married, passed the CA bar, moved to Minnesota (with a few stops along the way), waived into the MN bar, worked as a litigator for a few satisfying years, moved back to CA, had a couple of kids, realized that a legal career and being a single parent for most of the year (due to husband's career) would be extremely difficult, and THEN decided to sit down and write.
And how did I end up writing romance? It’s not as divergent as it seems. What I loved about being a lawyer are the same things I love about being a writer—research and writing. The only thing missing is the arguing, but that’s what a husband and kids are for, right?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 341 reviews
November 6, 2021
The Hunter is the seventh installment in the Highland Guard series and I absolutely had a blast with this book. This is one of those series that I always delight in these books that Monica McCarty has written and yes I know I am really behind on these books. After reading this one I realized why I had fallen in love with these books so much. I love the setting, the set up of the Highland Guard, the mystery surround King Robert the Bruce and the strong willed heroines that blends almost flawlessly with the stories.
In The Hunter, our story begins with our hero, Ewen, who is part of the Highland Guard, but also determined to save his people and clan who don't have the wealth and prestige to be vital in their living. He is faithful to his king and his brothers in arms. And when the king sends him on a mission to rescue a courier, the last person he would have suspected was a nun but who is also related to the king. And as such she is forbidden to Ewen. Ewen and Janet once had a moment and a kiss and it changed everything for them both. But now Ewen and Janet are back together and as such having to confront old wounds and the taste of the forbidden. But their lives are in danger from the English, but as they join forces, they find a love. But Ewen knows how impossible a relationship with Janet is, and while he feels the intensity of their connection, he can't encourage it but attempts to push Janet away but sometimes true love has a way of finding its circle and one wonders if Janet and Ewen will be able to find their balance and the HEA they both deserve.
The Hunter is a story that I had such an easy time reading and so easy to immerse myself into this fascinating world of medieval Scotland. I actually adore this era in Scotland, its one of my favorites to read. And Monica McCarty just makes this period of time come alive in so many respects. Its a story that brings together a strong alpha warrior with an unconventional heroine. I wasn't sure at first how I felt about this pairing and most particularly the heroine. She could be selfish, secretive at times, and the beginning scene, I didn't like how she used her hidden identity to create shame in the hero. But Janet eventually grew on me, I did feel that she could be consumed by her job as a secret courier with little remorse of the people she harmed in her wake. Janet in the end didn't impress me all that much, however, I did feel that we saw character growth from her and that is what truly one me over in the end with her character. Now our hero, Ewen, was a delight to read. I adored his character so much and I couldn't seem to get enough of it. He was an alpha, he is a natural protector, has a sense of honor and duty, but also is crafty and creative.
Overall I found The Hunter to be a romance that is rich in its history, deep in its chemistry and vivid in emotion. An adventure of a read you will love the journey in.
In The Hunter, our story begins with our hero, Ewen, who is part of the Highland Guard, but also determined to save his people and clan who don't have the wealth and prestige to be vital in their living. He is faithful to his king and his brothers in arms. And when the king sends him on a mission to rescue a courier, the last person he would have suspected was a nun but who is also related to the king. And as such she is forbidden to Ewen. Ewen and Janet once had a moment and a kiss and it changed everything for them both. But now Ewen and Janet are back together and as such having to confront old wounds and the taste of the forbidden. But their lives are in danger from the English, but as they join forces, they find a love. But Ewen knows how impossible a relationship with Janet is, and while he feels the intensity of their connection, he can't encourage it but attempts to push Janet away but sometimes true love has a way of finding its circle and one wonders if Janet and Ewen will be able to find their balance and the HEA they both deserve.
The Hunter is a story that I had such an easy time reading and so easy to immerse myself into this fascinating world of medieval Scotland. I actually adore this era in Scotland, its one of my favorites to read. And Monica McCarty just makes this period of time come alive in so many respects. Its a story that brings together a strong alpha warrior with an unconventional heroine. I wasn't sure at first how I felt about this pairing and most particularly the heroine. She could be selfish, secretive at times, and the beginning scene, I didn't like how she used her hidden identity to create shame in the hero. But Janet eventually grew on me, I did feel that she could be consumed by her job as a secret courier with little remorse of the people she harmed in her wake. Janet in the end didn't impress me all that much, however, I did feel that we saw character growth from her and that is what truly one me over in the end with her character. Now our hero, Ewen, was a delight to read. I adored his character so much and I couldn't seem to get enough of it. He was an alpha, he is a natural protector, has a sense of honor and duty, but also is crafty and creative.
Overall I found The Hunter to be a romance that is rich in its history, deep in its chemistry and vivid in emotion. An adventure of a read you will love the journey in.
August 23, 2021
So this was really nice. The humorous writing 💯
Ewen and Janet were an interesting couple and most of my notes while reading are full of laughing emojis. Janet was often a delight and Ewen was funny with his gruff ways! There were also lots of sweet moments, especially when Janet let her vulnerability show. They also had nice banter plenty of times, and it was fun how words sometimes went over Ewen’s head😂.(the warts and moles, and age).
Janet’s roundabout way of speaking was utterly grand, and I loved when it worked for them with the horse.
I had no sympathy for Ewen’s father and I really doubt any human would behave as the man did. An issue I had was that sometimes Janet had little regard for Ewen’s duty to his people. He couldn’t be with her because it’d antagonize the king, and while I realized she wanted him anyway, I wished she respected that. Janet also often acted too young for her age.
Ewen was super honorable to refuse to give in to attraction for as long as he did and I found myself wishing he’d just held off until the very end when they found a way to be together. Just to really prove he was nothing like his father.
The action at the end, funny enough didn’t really grip me—I guess I was here for the romance. But in the end, this was fun!
Ewen and Janet were an interesting couple and most of my notes while reading are full of laughing emojis. Janet was often a delight and Ewen was funny with his gruff ways! There were also lots of sweet moments, especially when Janet let her vulnerability show. They also had nice banter plenty of times, and it was fun how words sometimes went over Ewen’s head😂.(the warts and moles, and age).
Janet’s roundabout way of speaking was utterly grand, and I loved when it worked for them with the horse.
I had no sympathy for Ewen’s father and I really doubt any human would behave as the man did. An issue I had was that sometimes Janet had little regard for Ewen’s duty to his people. He couldn’t be with her because it’d antagonize the king, and while I realized she wanted him anyway, I wished she respected that. Janet also often acted too young for her age.
Ewen was super honorable to refuse to give in to attraction for as long as he did and I found myself wishing he’d just held off until the very end when they found a way to be together. Just to really prove he was nothing like his father.
The action at the end, funny enough didn’t really grip me—I guess I was here for the romance. But in the end, this was fun!
July 25, 2016
I think I'm going to give up on this series. The repetitiveness in all of the books is shocking. Especially when it comes to the dialogues, the inner monologues and the sex scenes, it seems as if the author copy/pasted from her previous books, changed a few paragraphs around and...voila...done. I think "Keep looking at me like that, and i'll not last long" came up in one way or another in each book.
And this is only one example of many.
And this is only one example of many.
October 5, 2020
3,5 / 5
Janet'in Feriştahvari ısrarı biraz bezdirse de sıkmadan, çabucak okundu bitti 😊
Janet'in Feriştahvari ısrarı biraz bezdirse de sıkmadan, çabucak okundu bitti 😊
March 25, 2024
Reread 2024
Still a five star read.
Loved this book! So sweet and hot watching Ewen and Janet fall in love. They are great together and relished every moments reading their story. Well paced plot and wonderful romance. Must read!!!!! Can't wait for Raiders story!!!
Still a five star read.
Loved this book! So sweet and hot watching Ewen and Janet fall in love. They are great together and relished every moments reading their story. Well paced plot and wonderful romance. Must read!!!!! Can't wait for Raiders story!!!
September 2, 2013
This is officially my #1 favorite historical romance series. I'm so in love with the world McCarty has created here, and how each book is more interesting and each story more intensely beautiful than the last.
So sad, now that I've finished reading all the ones that are already out. Book 8 can't get here fast enough!
4.5/5 stars
So sad, now that I've finished reading all the ones that are already out. Book 8 can't get here fast enough!
4.5/5 stars
July 27, 2013
3.5 stars
Ewen Lamont has grown up in the shadow of his father's reputation. A worthy fighter on the battlefield, Fynlay Lamont's penchant for brawling and drinking made him legendary off it. He was also infamous for stealing his liege lord's bride and nearly bringing ruin upon the family. The last of the Lamonts, his holdings comprising of a mere sliver of land in Cowal, he is tasked with the impossible feat finishing the half-built castle that is his childhood home. Ewen will do whatever it takes to erase that stain on his family's name and make right again; which meant to keep his head down and quietly carry out the duties assigned to him as a member of the Highland Guard. All that changes with his latest mission- to track down a missing courier responsible for bringing in important messages from over the enemy lines. Ewen is both intrigued and exasperated at the stubborn woman who keeps running away to fulfill her 'work'. Robert Bruce has betrothed her to Walter Stewart, his liege lord, and has given him the task to bring her back.
For Sister Genna the Italian nun, aka Janet of Mar, being an undercover courier is a responsibility she shoulders with pride. In her opinion, both men and women, warriors or otherwise are required to stand behind Robert Bruce in his fight against the English. Her silver tongue and ability to assume a myriad of characters is a gift when it comes to outmaneuver the English patrol. She loves the freedom her duty brings, and coming from a household of rigid patronizing menfolk- she has no reason to return to a normal life of a noblewoman.
Ewen's blunt tongue made for some humorous moments throughout the book. Janet was a likable character- her pluck and ability to talk her way out of a fray endeared her to me. For all accounts, The Hunter was enjoyable, but compared to the previous works it definitely fell short.
Seven books into the series, I was skeptical if the author would come up with fresh story lines to keep things interesting. Here, the problem lay in failure of plot execution. Each book in the Highland Guard series had a compelling back story set focusing on a different facet of war. In The Hunter , it is courier network provided by the Church that comes to the forefront. Persons of the cloth-priests, friars and nuns ferried key information from spies in enemy territory to Bruce's army-avoiding the patrol's scrutiny by pretending to be on holy pilgrimage. By all means,it makes for a great premise for hidden agendas, betrayals and cloak-and-dagger moments. Except, there weren't any. Rather than having a plot firmly centered on the courier network and Ewen jumping into the soup, the narrative was divided into two separate spheres- Ewen trying to get Genna to Scotland in safety, and Genna sneaking away to gather missives. The bad guys (the English!) had neither an identity nor a motive, randomly coming out of the mist towards the end. The mystery of who was murdering the couriers (and how they were found to be spies in the first place) was almost an afterthought and did not get solved. Adding to that, the whole "this is too dangerous to be a woman's work" had me banging my head on the table.
Thoughts: I love this series too much to abandon it, but argghh!- you can do much better Ms. McCarty.
Ewen Lamont has grown up in the shadow of his father's reputation. A worthy fighter on the battlefield, Fynlay Lamont's penchant for brawling and drinking made him legendary off it. He was also infamous for stealing his liege lord's bride and nearly bringing ruin upon the family. The last of the Lamonts, his holdings comprising of a mere sliver of land in Cowal, he is tasked with the impossible feat finishing the half-built castle that is his childhood home. Ewen will do whatever it takes to erase that stain on his family's name and make right again; which meant to keep his head down and quietly carry out the duties assigned to him as a member of the Highland Guard. All that changes with his latest mission- to track down a missing courier responsible for bringing in important messages from over the enemy lines. Ewen is both intrigued and exasperated at the stubborn woman who keeps running away to fulfill her 'work'. Robert Bruce has betrothed her to Walter Stewart, his liege lord, and has given him the task to bring her back.
For Sister Genna the Italian nun, aka Janet of Mar, being an undercover courier is a responsibility she shoulders with pride. In her opinion, both men and women, warriors or otherwise are required to stand behind Robert Bruce in his fight against the English. Her silver tongue and ability to assume a myriad of characters is a gift when it comes to outmaneuver the English patrol. She loves the freedom her duty brings, and coming from a household of rigid patronizing menfolk- she has no reason to return to a normal life of a noblewoman.
Ewen's blunt tongue made for some humorous moments throughout the book. Janet was a likable character- her pluck and ability to talk her way out of a fray endeared her to me. For all accounts, The Hunter was enjoyable, but compared to the previous works it definitely fell short.
Seven books into the series, I was skeptical if the author would come up with fresh story lines to keep things interesting. Here, the problem lay in failure of plot execution. Each book in the Highland Guard series had a compelling back story set focusing on a different facet of war. In The Hunter , it is courier network provided by the Church that comes to the forefront. Persons of the cloth-priests, friars and nuns ferried key information from spies in enemy territory to Bruce's army-avoiding the patrol's scrutiny by pretending to be on holy pilgrimage. By all means,it makes for a great premise for hidden agendas, betrayals and cloak-and-dagger moments. Except, there weren't any. Rather than having a plot firmly centered on the courier network and Ewen jumping into the soup, the narrative was divided into two separate spheres- Ewen trying to get Genna to Scotland in safety, and Genna sneaking away to gather missives. The bad guys (the English!) had neither an identity nor a motive, randomly coming out of the mist towards the end. The mystery of who was murdering the couriers (and how they were found to be spies in the first place) was almost an afterthought and did not get solved. Adding to that, the whole "this is too dangerous to be a woman's work" had me banging my head on the table.
Thoughts: I love this series too much to abandon it, but argghh!- you can do much better Ms. McCarty.
May 25, 2013
The Hunter by Monica McCarty is a Ballantine/Random House publication set for a June 2013 release date.
Wow! This was a really good Highlander Historical romance.
Ewen Lamont is a proud, honorable member of the Highland Guard. Ewan is determined not to end up like his father, a man that had caused a scandal by marrying for love no matter what the cost.
Ewan didn't really think a great deal about women. He was more concerned about preserving his clan and lands that he blamed his father for losing. He was loyal to Bruce and fought the English.
But, when he encounters a nun in a dangerous situation, he is determined to see her to a safe place despite her protestations. Along the way he finds himself fighting an attraction to the nun. The two have a hot and cold relationship until they are finally separated. But, the two are destined to encounter each other time and again.
Janet has been presumed dead for three years. She wears the disguise of a nun and works as a courier. She fully intends to eventually become a nun so she can continue her work, which she would have to give up if she ever married. To her, marriage was like a death penalty and she intended to avoid it at all cost. That is until she meets Ewan.
While both are determined to do their jobs, they find themselves in dire danger from the enemy and from falling in love. Will history repeat itself for Ewan?
This was an absorbing story with intrigue and danger either in the fore front or lurking in the background at all times. The back and forth between Ewan and Janet was sharp and funny and at times emotional. Two very determined adults have all they hold dear on the line as they fight for their leader and their personal values as well as for the love that is forbidden.
I really, really liked this one. You will finish this book with a big smile on your face.
I also enjoyed the author's notes at the end which detailed some of the history the story was built around.
A+ all the way. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
Wow! This was a really good Highlander Historical romance.
Ewen Lamont is a proud, honorable member of the Highland Guard. Ewan is determined not to end up like his father, a man that had caused a scandal by marrying for love no matter what the cost.
Ewan didn't really think a great deal about women. He was more concerned about preserving his clan and lands that he blamed his father for losing. He was loyal to Bruce and fought the English.
But, when he encounters a nun in a dangerous situation, he is determined to see her to a safe place despite her protestations. Along the way he finds himself fighting an attraction to the nun. The two have a hot and cold relationship until they are finally separated. But, the two are destined to encounter each other time and again.
Janet has been presumed dead for three years. She wears the disguise of a nun and works as a courier. She fully intends to eventually become a nun so she can continue her work, which she would have to give up if she ever married. To her, marriage was like a death penalty and she intended to avoid it at all cost. That is until she meets Ewan.
While both are determined to do their jobs, they find themselves in dire danger from the enemy and from falling in love. Will history repeat itself for Ewan?
This was an absorbing story with intrigue and danger either in the fore front or lurking in the background at all times. The back and forth between Ewan and Janet was sharp and funny and at times emotional. Two very determined adults have all they hold dear on the line as they fight for their leader and their personal values as well as for the love that is forbidden.
I really, really liked this one. You will finish this book with a big smile on your face.
I also enjoyed the author's notes at the end which detailed some of the history the story was built around.
A+ all the way. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
July 31, 2013
Ewen " Hunter" Lamont 's current mission takes him to the bishop of St Andrew to retrieve information for the Bruce only to discover that since he ws late the bishop has sent a nunSister Genna on ahead with the info. Ewen is dumbfounded and horrid hat the Bishop would put a women in danger.Ewen and mcAorley take off after her and when they catch up they find her and her traveling companion being physically attacked by English soldiers, but though the soldiers have ripped Sister Genna's clothing she is standing up to them and actually has them backing off a bit with the suggestions that should they rape a nun , a women of God they am find that God will punish them by having some very personal parts shrivel up to,raisins. Ewen is impressed and in awe and unfortunately for him very attracted to a "nun".
Ewen returns to court with the info ,but s still deeply upset that women are being used as couriers of information and one look at Sutherland"ice" wife he goes still because he swears. Is sister Genna , the same sister Genna that he just left, the very same that he can not get his mind off of when realization hits him Mary of mar has a twin sister who has been missing! Janet of Mar,
Ewen , now was highly motivated to speak to the Bruce over women as courtiers and weather Robert the Bruce knew his sister in law was masquerading as a nun and acting as a courier. A suprise to Ewen is that Robert has known all long but , he now wishes to recall Janet back o court he has plans to marry her off to Walter Stewart, Ewens liege lords, so of course he will send the mn who desires her to bring her back to marry another man, oh and by the way keep your hand off.
Okay so anyone have the rest figured out? Well don't go getting overly confident with our conclusions but lets say the rest of the story was a great ride.
As always Monica McCarty delivered a great highland romance, looking forward to the next one !
Ewen returns to court with the info ,but s still deeply upset that women are being used as couriers of information and one look at Sutherland"ice" wife he goes still because he swears. Is sister Genna , the same sister Genna that he just left, the very same that he can not get his mind off of when realization hits him Mary of mar has a twin sister who has been missing! Janet of Mar,
Ewen , now was highly motivated to speak to the Bruce over women as courtiers and weather Robert the Bruce knew his sister in law was masquerading as a nun and acting as a courier. A suprise to Ewen is that Robert has known all long but , he now wishes to recall Janet back o court he has plans to marry her off to Walter Stewart, Ewens liege lords, so of course he will send the mn who desires her to bring her back to marry another man, oh and by the way keep your hand off.
Okay so anyone have the rest figured out? Well don't go getting overly confident with our conclusions but lets say the rest of the story was a great ride.
As always Monica McCarty delivered a great highland romance, looking forward to the next one !
February 16, 2019
Great story! Tragic backstory for H; interesting h; I liked the way H didn't have great prospects but he tried his best and loved the ending for this one a lot ... esp. liked the way Jenna was such a great actress and the scene in the village with soldiers where she pretends to be pregnant was hilarious ... never expected Ewan to be so interesting ...
November 4, 2017
kako ja volim ove fucking zgodne skote
February 4, 2019
This was an enjoyable read for me and quick because it’s fast paced and the characters themselves really pull you into the story.
October 14, 2025
Re read. I bumped it up half a star 4.5
I really enjoyed. The history woven in with fiction. Monica McCarty does an excellent job with research. Plot 7.5 (1-10) steaminess 7.5(1-10)
I really enjoyed. The history woven in with fiction. Monica McCarty does an excellent job with research. Plot 7.5 (1-10) steaminess 7.5(1-10)
February 28, 2013
The Hunter is a great continuation of the already stellar Highland Guard series. As a devoted fan of Monica McCarty, I have been faithfully following this series since the beginning. Never missing a release day, and never failing to be amazed at how the writer keeps the long running series fresh and unique. Rich in historical detail, each novel is different in plot and circumstance. For these extraordinary warriors and the remarkable women they love, it is a world of exciting adventure as they fight for Scotland's freedom. McCarty's Highland Guard series takes place during the most intriguing eras of Scottish history. It is set against the stunning backdrop of Robert the Bruce's campaign to free Scotland from England's tyranny.
Just in case you're new to the series, the following was taken from Monica McCarty's website. It explains the plot that is the common thread of the Highland Guard series.
Introduction To The Series :
What's sexier than a man in a kilt ? How about special ops in kilts. The Highland Guard series marries Monica's love of strapping, sexy Highland warriors with her love for navySeals and black ops. Think Suzanne Brockman meets Braveheart.
Where the legend of the Highlander began...Journey back to the time of Braveheart, when Scotland was fighting to free itself from English tyranny, and Robert the Bruce was fighting for a crown. To defeat the superior forces of the heavy mounted English knights, Bruce knows he needs a new kind of warrior. He looks to the barbarian lands, to the most feared warriors in Christendom,to the ultimate guerilla fighter...to the Highlander.
Scouring the darkest corners of the Highlands and Western Isles, Bruce handpicks eleven warriors to form a secret elite fighting force like the world has never seen. They are the ultimate "special forces" , the best of the best, chosen for their superior skills in each discipline of warfare and brought together into one elite fighting force known as the HIGHLAND GUARD. Bound together in a secret ceremony, they are a phantom force, identifiable only by their extraordinary skills, their war names, and the lion rampant tattooed on their arm.
Vowing death before surrender, Bruce's band of shadow warriors will stop at nothing but invincible warriors will face the one thing they can't defeat : love, and the remarkable women who claim their hearts.
Doesn't that sound exciting ? That's because it is. Each novel is an adventure in love, honor and integrity. But back to the book at hand and how AWESOME it is.
My plot summary will be short because, really, the blurb sums it all up quite nicely. Ewan (Hunter) is known far and wide as the best tracker in Scotland. That's why he is the only man for the job when a courier for the cause goes missing. It happens that the courier is a nun (or so Ewan thinks), so he rushes off to the rescue, only to find "Sister Genna" right in the midst of trouble. Sister Genna isn't like any nun Ewan's ever seen. She's a sexy spitfire, and Ewan keeps having sinful thoughts.
"Sister Genna" is actually Janet of Mar, the missing sister of Mary, the heroine of The Recruit. Janet has lost a lot during her countries bid for freedom. Her brother was killed, and to her knowledge her sister and nephew are being held hostage in England. So it was totally believable that she never hesitated to risk her own neck for the cause. Janet's been in seclusion since her botched attempt at rescuing Mary and her son went horribly wrong. She feels that it was her own impetuousness that got so many people killed and made her sisters situation even worse. I could see how she saw her work as a penance, as well as a way to win the war. She's a head-strong woman, and she can't see herself as chattel to any man. She'd rather take the veil in truth, and that's just what she plans on doing. Then why does she get all hot under that nuns get-up when she looks at the hunky Highlander who rescues her ?
I loved Ewan and Janet. They were both strong characters with deep integrity, who shared a powerful attraction. It made the story interesting how circumstances kept getting in the way. Ewan thought that Janet was a nun, and then he discovered her identity, only to learn that she is meant for another man.He is trying to guard his heart against her, while she is trying to win his respect aas well as his love. Then there is the mission that ends up putting Janet and Ewan's lives in grave danger.
My thoughts : Just like the previous books, The Hunter features wonderful characters. Sexy alpha warriors and the beautiful, courageous and sometimes misunderstood women. An engaging plot, abounding with passion, action and intrigue. Steamy love scenes are a high priority, and McCarty always delivers on that part.
I felt that if there was one flaw in this story... it was that Ewan kept pushing Janet away. Given his history and how he never wanted to repeat his fathers mistakes...I knew he was bound to push her away a few times. Hell, I could've forgiven him just about anything. But he did it too many times, and it made me want to reach right into the pages and slap him.
McCarty is keeping her Highland Guard series fresh, with spectacularly riveting plots and fabulously romantic couples. I'm already anticipating the next novel in the series. If I'm right about who the protagonists may be, then the next one promises to be well worth my wait.
Monica McCarty is a master at writing Highlander romance,and I was hooked the first time I discovered one of her books in the aisle of my local book store. Being the ravenous romance fiend that I am...I quickly worked my way through her entire backlist. Fortunately for me, The Highland Guard series was just about to debut with The Chief, and I was saved from some serious withdrawal symptoms. Luckily, she keeps this addict happy and well supplied by not making me wait too long inbetween getting my fix. At the end of each book I am left satisfied with my HEA.
If you've not read this series yet, then I strongly suggest that you do. The Hunter is a must read for all historical romance readers.
ARC received courtesy of the publisher & Edelweiss in return for my honest opinion.
September 14, 2020
Avcı’yı bir gün gibi kısa bir sürede okuyup bitirmiştim. Yorumu ancak girebiliyorum tabii.
Yazarın hemen hemen her kitabını sevmişimdir ama benim için bu serisi çok başka.
İskoç Muhafız Alayı’nda ki her bir karakterin hikayesini aşırı severek okudum ve okumaya devam ediyorum.
Sırada eşsiz iz sürme yeteneğiyle, Avcı olarak bildiğimiz Ewen ve bir önceki kitapta ismi geçen Janet’in hikâyesini okuyoruz.
Ve her zaman ki gibi çok güzeldi. Yazarın tarihte yaşanmış gerçek olayları ve karakterleri baz alarak oluşturduğu kurgular harika oluyor. Hem daha gerçek hemde beklentimi karşılayacak aşk, aksiyon ve romantizm dozumu alıyorum.
İkili arasında etkileşim, inatlaşma ve tutku her sayfada hissediliyor. Ayrıca kurguda, tüm seride devam eden savaşın detaylarınıda okumak çok güzel oluyor.
Ben çok severek okudum. Gerçi tüm seriyi seviyorum. Kenarda, köşede bir İskoç bulundırmak şart bence valla. Devam kitaplarını aşırı merak ediyorum.
Yazarın hemen hemen her kitabını sevmişimdir ama benim için bu serisi çok başka.
İskoç Muhafız Alayı’nda ki her bir karakterin hikayesini aşırı severek okudum ve okumaya devam ediyorum.
Sırada eşsiz iz sürme yeteneğiyle, Avcı olarak bildiğimiz Ewen ve bir önceki kitapta ismi geçen Janet’in hikâyesini okuyoruz.
Ve her zaman ki gibi çok güzeldi. Yazarın tarihte yaşanmış gerçek olayları ve karakterleri baz alarak oluşturduğu kurgular harika oluyor. Hem daha gerçek hemde beklentimi karşılayacak aşk, aksiyon ve romantizm dozumu alıyorum.
İkili arasında etkileşim, inatlaşma ve tutku her sayfada hissediliyor. Ayrıca kurguda, tüm seride devam eden savaşın detaylarınıda okumak çok güzel oluyor.
Ben çok severek okudum. Gerçi tüm seriyi seviyorum. Kenarda, köşede bir İskoç bulundırmak şart bence valla. Devam kitaplarını aşırı merak ediyorum.
September 13, 2023
A fun series that I enjoyed and who doesn’t love a man in a kilt ?
March 27, 2017
2.5 stars
Eh, not the best one in this series. Actually, this book was one of my least favourite in the series so far and it was a big part because of Janet's character. I just did not like her, I mean she was strong and all but she was so annoying! I felt bad for Ewen because how easily she blamed him for everything and it wasn't even his fault. I liked Ewen's character but Janet just ruined it for me. Also, the story wasn't as good as I had hoped. Maybe it's just me, but I thought the story was slow and lacked excitement. The characters spent way too much time traveling to do much of anything else. Love the history stuff though and have to say that no one else can put a story round historical events quite like Ms McCarty.
Eh, not the best one in this series. Actually, this book was one of my least favourite in the series so far and it was a big part because of Janet's character. I just did not like her, I mean she was strong and all but she was so annoying! I felt bad for Ewen because how easily she blamed him for everything and it wasn't even his fault. I liked Ewen's character but Janet just ruined it for me. Also, the story wasn't as good as I had hoped. Maybe it's just me, but I thought the story was slow and lacked excitement. The characters spent way too much time traveling to do much of anything else. Love the history stuff though and have to say that no one else can put a story round historical events quite like Ms McCarty.
November 10, 2013
Fun book!! Love these highlanders. Review to come.
December 13, 2025
1310. Ewen Lamont is an expert tracker bent on restoring his family's prestige. His current assignment is to find a missing courier who has been carrying coded messages for King Robert. That courier is Janet of Mar, Mary's twin sister presumed three years dead by all but a few who know her undercover identity as an a Italian postulate. Janet carries the guilt of a failed attempt to free her sister from the English a few years ago and the conviction that she wants to maintain independence and help the Scottish cause. She's not a nun yet, but she doesn't want to marry and be beholden to a man who will ask her to stop her. So when she meets Ewen, he's everything she doesn't want, even when their chemistry is undeniable.
When McCarty started the series, she said she wanted to have at least one book focus on the historical role the Church played in support of Bruce. She decided to do this with Janet - character she created because Mary of Mar (book 6 heroine) is historically called by several names and McCarty thought it would be interesting to turn that tidbit into Mary's twin Janet - because the clandestine courier plot fits someone who could move in and out of the margins of the war. I loved how fiercely independent Janet is, and how fast she thinks on her feet. This pairs well with Ewen's tracking ability, and frustrates him because he wants to take care and protect this woman who has her own mind.
Alongside the impact of religious orders, I think I most enjoyed seeing the way Robert the Bruce relies on so many different kinds of people in his war operations. Scotland hovers on the knife's edge of independence in 1310 and here we see Bruce shoring power in advance of future confrontations.
When McCarty started the series, she said she wanted to have at least one book focus on the historical role the Church played in support of Bruce. She decided to do this with Janet - character she created because Mary of Mar (book 6 heroine) is historically called by several names and McCarty thought it would be interesting to turn that tidbit into Mary's twin Janet - because the clandestine courier plot fits someone who could move in and out of the margins of the war. I loved how fiercely independent Janet is, and how fast she thinks on her feet. This pairs well with Ewen's tracking ability, and frustrates him because he wants to take care and protect this woman who has her own mind.
Alongside the impact of religious orders, I think I most enjoyed seeing the way Robert the Bruce relies on so many different kinds of people in his war operations. Scotland hovers on the knife's edge of independence in 1310 and here we see Bruce shoring power in advance of future confrontations.
August 4, 2024
Marlı Mary'nin ikiz kardeşi Janet'ın bir patlamada öldüğü sanılıyordu. Aslında bir rahibe olarak kral ve muhbirleri arasında ulak olarak çalışıyordur. Kendi klanının son umudu olarak görevine son derece sadık ve Kral Bruce'un hayalet ordusunun üyesi Ewen Lamont nam-ı diğer Avcı ile de bu şekilde tanıştılar. Sorun şu ki Ewen onun gerçekten bir rahibe olduğunu sanıyordu. Onun kim olduğunu öğrenmesinin ardından Bruce Avcı'yı Janet'ı bulup artık geri getirmesi için görevlendirdi. Üstelik Janet'ı, Ewen'ın lordu ile evlendirmeyi planlıyor. Janet'ı bulsa da dönüş yolu hiç de kolay olmuyor.
Benim için sadece ufak bazı temel sorunları vardı. Biri kızın "Yıl olmuş 1310, ne demek kadınlar savaşamaz, çalışamaz" tavırlarıydı. Elbette, tarihin her döneminde bazı kadınlar kendilerine biçilen tek düze role karşı isyan etmiştir. Sadece bunu ifade ediş şekli o döneme daha uygun olabilirdi. Yine de çok rahatsız olmadım, kitap boyu idare etti.
Diğer sorun ise seri boyunca Bruce'un gizli ordusundan birine yakın olan her kadın tak diye "Aa bunlar Bruce'un hayalet ordusu olmalı" dedi hahah Savaş şekline, giyimlerine, Bruce'a yakınlıklarına vs bakıp hemen tahmin ediyorlar. Zaten tahmin etmeseler komik olur.
Dediğim gibi ufak sorunlar. Yazarın belli kalitede bir çizgisi var ve altına hiç düşmüyor. Tarihi gerçekler ile eşleştirmesi, kurgularının çıkış noktalarını her okuduğumda hikâye daha da güzelleşiyor. Bu seriyi seviyorum :)
Benim için sadece ufak bazı temel sorunları vardı. Biri kızın "Yıl olmuş 1310, ne demek kadınlar savaşamaz, çalışamaz" tavırlarıydı. Elbette, tarihin her döneminde bazı kadınlar kendilerine biçilen tek düze role karşı isyan etmiştir. Sadece bunu ifade ediş şekli o döneme daha uygun olabilirdi. Yine de çok rahatsız olmadım, kitap boyu idare etti.
Diğer sorun ise seri boyunca Bruce'un gizli ordusundan birine yakın olan her kadın tak diye "Aa bunlar Bruce'un hayalet ordusu olmalı" dedi hahah Savaş şekline, giyimlerine, Bruce'a yakınlıklarına vs bakıp hemen tahmin ediyorlar. Zaten tahmin etmeseler komik olur.
Dediğim gibi ufak sorunlar. Yazarın belli kalitede bir çizgisi var ve altına hiç düşmüyor. Tarihi gerçekler ile eşleştirmesi, kurgularının çıkış noktalarını her okuduğumda hikâye daha da güzelleşiyor. Bu seriyi seviyorum :)
February 9, 2025
Entretenido y con bastante drama, éste libro estuvo lleno de persecuciones y peligros de inicio a fin.
Me gustó que Janet fuese tan valiente - si bien pecó de orgullosa y creída- y sentía que no valoraba el deber de Ewen para con su clan, siento que fue muy egoísta el 90% del tiempo, todo lo hacía para sentirse bien ella y aliviar sus culpas.
De Ewen me hubiese esperado un poco más de aguante, siento que hubiese ido súper bien con su personaje y moral, pero supongo que así hubiese sido menos romántico (?).
Este libro tuvo conversaciones muy chistosas; cuando llamó a Janet vieja y sin importancia me reí mucho 🤣 no muchas veces tenemos a un protagonista tan diestro en la lucha y tan torpe con las palabras.
Al final ya estaba un poquito aburrida de la historia, siento que se extendió un poco más de la cuenta. Pero fue entretenida. Así que 3.5 estrellas.
Me gustó que Janet fuese tan valiente - si bien pecó de orgullosa y creída- y sentía que no valoraba el deber de Ewen para con su clan, siento que fue muy egoísta el 90% del tiempo, todo lo hacía para sentirse bien ella y aliviar sus culpas.
De Ewen me hubiese esperado un poco más de aguante, siento que hubiese ido súper bien con su personaje y moral, pero supongo que así hubiese sido menos romántico (?).
Este libro tuvo conversaciones muy chistosas; cuando llamó a Janet vieja y sin importancia me reí mucho 🤣 no muchas veces tenemos a un protagonista tan diestro en la lucha y tan torpe con las palabras.
Al final ya estaba un poquito aburrida de la historia, siento que se extendió un poco más de la cuenta. Pero fue entretenida. Así que 3.5 estrellas.
September 28, 2020
Özlemişim valla şöyle bol iskoçlu, bol cinsel gerilimli historical okumayı. Monica her zamanki gibi çok iyi geldi.
July 7, 2013
Find more reviews at The Demon Librarian.
Nun on the run.
Seven books in and McCarty manages to produce yet another delicious Scottish hero for readers to devour. One of my favourite species, in fact—the strong, silent type—Ewen was an absolute delight. You know, when he wasn't being a giant pain in my ass.
Famed throughout Scotland for his incomparable tracking skills which earned him the moniker "The Hunter" within Bruce's elite guard, his prowess as a warrior is without question. His social skills on the other hand, particularly where the fairer sex is concerned, are somewhat lacking, to put it mildly. He's brusque, abrupt, has no discernible soft edges, nor charm... and I absolutely loved him!
Big, gruff bear characters who find all that "mushy love stuff" uncomfortable and awkward are a bit of a weakness for me, it has to be said. There's often a soft, squishy side under all their bluster that I find irresistible, and usually only one special li'l lady capable of bringing it to the surface. Ewen is no exception to that sweeping generalisation. You know what they say, the bigger they are, the harder they fall, and it's very satisfying as a reader to watch that transformation. Of course, the fact that Ewen was hummuna hummuna hummuna drop dead gorgeous, certainly didn't hurt matters.
Speaking of ladies, ever wonder what happened to Janet, Mary (heroine from The Recruit ) of Mar's sister after the big bridge explosion? Well, I can tell you she's still alive and kicking here in THE HUNTER, and is still as fearless—some people, *cough*Ewen*cough*, might say needlessly reckless, but that's beside the point—and is currently living life perilously close to the edge by being one of Bruce's "Couriers of the Cloth" (Members of the Church, or in Janet's case, big, fat fake members of the Church, who carry messages between informants back to Bruce to help with the war effort). Disguised as an Italian nun, she first meets Ewen when her life is in imminent danger, causing his protective— and worryingly for him, his possessive—side to rear its head, along with a big can of wuppass for those who are threatening her. It's not long before the two are thrust together on a journey that tests Ewen's sense of honour to the limits. I mean, she's a nun, but she sure doesn't act, speak, or look like any nun he's ever met. I actually felt really sorry for Ewen during this deception. Bless him, he thought he was going to burn in hell for sure. But it was also kinda fun being in on the secret.
THE HUNTER was a satisfying read all in all. There was plenty of action, conflict, sexual tension, and even some pretty heavy emotional scenes. While it's probably not my favourite McCarty book (I tend to like the really gut-kicking ones that have me sobbing all over my Kindle), it's certainly a great addition to the series and maintains the high standard of those preceding it. The next book is set to be called The Raider and is Robert Boyd's story. I'm hoping we'll soon be getting a "The Striker" book because after this one, I'm entirely fascinated by the sham marriage of Eoin MacLean and want to know how McCarty plans to handle that one.
I hope I've convinced you to give THE HUNTER a try, and if you haven't started this series yet and want to get the full experience, you can start with The Chief and meet each gorgeous hunk of man in chronological order, as well as enjoy learning about the historical events surrounding Robert the Bruce's reign during this time period.
My rating: 4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Nun on the run.
Seven books in and McCarty manages to produce yet another delicious Scottish hero for readers to devour. One of my favourite species, in fact—the strong, silent type—Ewen was an absolute delight. You know, when he wasn't being a giant pain in my ass.
Famed throughout Scotland for his incomparable tracking skills which earned him the moniker "The Hunter" within Bruce's elite guard, his prowess as a warrior is without question. His social skills on the other hand, particularly where the fairer sex is concerned, are somewhat lacking, to put it mildly. He's brusque, abrupt, has no discernible soft edges, nor charm... and I absolutely loved him!
Big, gruff bear characters who find all that "mushy love stuff" uncomfortable and awkward are a bit of a weakness for me, it has to be said. There's often a soft, squishy side under all their bluster that I find irresistible, and usually only one special li'l lady capable of bringing it to the surface. Ewen is no exception to that sweeping generalisation. You know what they say, the bigger they are, the harder they fall, and it's very satisfying as a reader to watch that transformation. Of course, the fact that Ewen was hummuna hummuna hummuna drop dead gorgeous, certainly didn't hurt matters.
Speaking of ladies, ever wonder what happened to Janet, Mary (heroine from The Recruit ) of Mar's sister after the big bridge explosion? Well, I can tell you she's still alive and kicking here in THE HUNTER, and is still as fearless—some people, *cough*Ewen*cough*, might say needlessly reckless, but that's beside the point—and is currently living life perilously close to the edge by being one of Bruce's "Couriers of the Cloth" (Members of the Church, or in Janet's case, big, fat fake members of the Church, who carry messages between informants back to Bruce to help with the war effort). Disguised as an Italian nun, she first meets Ewen when her life is in imminent danger, causing his protective— and worryingly for him, his possessive—side to rear its head, along with a big can of wuppass for those who are threatening her. It's not long before the two are thrust together on a journey that tests Ewen's sense of honour to the limits. I mean, she's a nun, but she sure doesn't act, speak, or look like any nun he's ever met. I actually felt really sorry for Ewen during this deception. Bless him, he thought he was going to burn in hell for sure. But it was also kinda fun being in on the secret.
THE HUNTER was a satisfying read all in all. There was plenty of action, conflict, sexual tension, and even some pretty heavy emotional scenes. While it's probably not my favourite McCarty book (I tend to like the really gut-kicking ones that have me sobbing all over my Kindle), it's certainly a great addition to the series and maintains the high standard of those preceding it. The next book is set to be called The Raider and is Robert Boyd's story. I'm hoping we'll soon be getting a "The Striker" book because after this one, I'm entirely fascinated by the sham marriage of Eoin MacLean and want to know how McCarty plans to handle that one.
I hope I've convinced you to give THE HUNTER a try, and if you haven't started this series yet and want to get the full experience, you can start with The Chief and meet each gorgeous hunk of man in chronological order, as well as enjoy learning about the historical events surrounding Robert the Bruce's reign during this time period.
My rating: 4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2015
2nd read on 27.11.2015
I will stay with my 2 stars review. Something is missing in Ewen and Janet. I don't know what, but that took out all the magic. Writing is as wonderful as usual. I just can't warm up to the characters. I felt like watching them going through the motions, no strong pull or chemistry
Review after first read in Oct 2015:
I am beginning to think that it is the of Mar sisters that I don't like. I did not like Mary of Mar, the heroine from The Recruit, and I do not like Janet of Mar, the heroine of this book, either. Monica McCarty weaves her stories masterfully as she usually does. But I just cannot connect with Mary and Janet.
Janet of Mar, was 27 years old in this book. She met Ewen as a nun while she was serving as a "courier" for Robert the Bruce, carrying important messsages for his political campaign. Apparently she was feisty and independent and all that wonderful things that a woman wants to be (I do not aspire to be like that but it seems to be the populr opinion). She wanted to "do her bit" for her country and on a mission she met Ewen, who was part of Bruce' secret army.
I do not know what was missing in this book for me. I did not like Janet as a character. I think a "beauty in disguise" heroine is hard to swallow for me. Her twin sister Mary in The Recruit also pretended to be plain and ugly. And I did not like her either. Ewen is by far the most boring male lead in Monica McCarty's highland guard series. His character was not very memorable, which came as a surprise for me. If anything I think Monica McCarty always paints a vivid picture for her characters. I was very shocked to find Ewen so uncharacteristically plain. It is as if he did not have a personality other than insisitng that a woman's place is to be somewhere safe and look after the household and babies.
Ewen and Janet did not attract me as a couple. Not being able to establish a connection to either character, I find their sexual tensoin non-existent as well. Their first kiss was when Janet was still posing as a nun. And I almost dropped my Kindle when that happened because Ewen kissed Janet OUT OF NOWHERE. I was like what just happened?? Why the kiss? There was no prelude, nothing. I did not even think Ewen liked Janet. It was that abrupt for me.
I so wish I enjoyed the book but I think as the series goes on, Monica McCarty must find new character types for her new books. They cannot all be the same. The male leads are all alpha male types, so there is little she could work with. That places the heroine in the front of the line to appeal to readers' interests. And I am afraid that Mary and Janet of Mar did not capture my heart. Having read reviews on the next book, The Arrow, I doubt I would like the book because of the heroine. I think it is good that the women knew what they wanted. It is just, I wish they were not so "uninhibited" with their affections. Imagine that it was a war, the guys were retreating and the women just kept marching on. There was no tug-of-war. It was an all out attack from the women's side. It is not my style and I have a hard time relating to that.
I will stay with my 2 stars review. Something is missing in Ewen and Janet. I don't know what, but that took out all the magic. Writing is as wonderful as usual. I just can't warm up to the characters. I felt like watching them going through the motions, no strong pull or chemistry
Review after first read in Oct 2015:
I am beginning to think that it is the of Mar sisters that I don't like. I did not like Mary of Mar, the heroine from The Recruit, and I do not like Janet of Mar, the heroine of this book, either. Monica McCarty weaves her stories masterfully as she usually does. But I just cannot connect with Mary and Janet.
Janet of Mar, was 27 years old in this book. She met Ewen as a nun while she was serving as a "courier" for Robert the Bruce, carrying important messsages for his political campaign. Apparently she was feisty and independent and all that wonderful things that a woman wants to be (I do not aspire to be like that but it seems to be the populr opinion). She wanted to "do her bit" for her country and on a mission she met Ewen, who was part of Bruce' secret army.
I do not know what was missing in this book for me. I did not like Janet as a character. I think a "beauty in disguise" heroine is hard to swallow for me. Her twin sister Mary in The Recruit also pretended to be plain and ugly. And I did not like her either. Ewen is by far the most boring male lead in Monica McCarty's highland guard series. His character was not very memorable, which came as a surprise for me. If anything I think Monica McCarty always paints a vivid picture for her characters. I was very shocked to find Ewen so uncharacteristically plain. It is as if he did not have a personality other than insisitng that a woman's place is to be somewhere safe and look after the household and babies.
Ewen and Janet did not attract me as a couple. Not being able to establish a connection to either character, I find their sexual tensoin non-existent as well. Their first kiss was when Janet was still posing as a nun. And I almost dropped my Kindle when that happened because Ewen kissed Janet OUT OF NOWHERE. I was like what just happened?? Why the kiss? There was no prelude, nothing. I did not even think Ewen liked Janet. It was that abrupt for me.
I so wish I enjoyed the book but I think as the series goes on, Monica McCarty must find new character types for her new books. They cannot all be the same. The male leads are all alpha male types, so there is little she could work with. That places the heroine in the front of the line to appeal to readers' interests. And I am afraid that Mary and Janet of Mar did not capture my heart. Having read reviews on the next book, The Arrow, I doubt I would like the book because of the heroine. I think it is good that the women knew what they wanted. It is just, I wish they were not so "uninhibited" with their affections. Imagine that it was a war, the guys were retreating and the women just kept marching on. There was no tug-of-war. It was an all out attack from the women's side. It is not my style and I have a hard time relating to that.
October 16, 2019
This book had me from the very beginning when Ewen Lamont and Kenneth Sutherland rescued Sister Genna and another nun who were being manhandled by a few English soldiers. The soldiers were on patrol, looking for insurgents and thought they'd have some fun. Yeah, well, Sutherland (from the book The Recruit and is now called Ice) and Ewen had other ideas and made light duty of the cretins.
Sister Genna is a spitfire and deceitful as all get out, but only in the name of her country and her king, Robert the Bruce. She's a smooth talker and calm under pressure and is adept and talking her way out of perilous situations. She's strong, independent, and is convinced she will take the veil and spend her life alone with no man or children. She's all good with it until Ewen.
Man, the heat between these two is off the charts. We have Ewen who is to bring Sister Genna, a courier, to the King who has betrothed her to another man, something she doesn't know until it's too late. Ewen knew all along and his strong sense of duty, honor, and staying focused on his mission was what kept him in line. But he was attracted to her like he'd never been attracted to any woman before and she was just as attracted to him. This created a lot of tension. He knew he could never have her and she didn't understand why, especially after he discovered she was Lady Janet of Mar. That further complicated things for him. She didn't understand why they couldn't be together and they'd exchanged some heated kisses...I mean, they were HOT! She no longer wanted to take the veil and damned the life of aristocracy.
Ewen had a finger of land, no money, and an unfinished castle that he'd promised his father he would finish after his father laid dying after doing a foolish stunt. He had nothing to offer her and no prospects until after the war was over when he was to get money and have his title restored. His virtue was at stake as well as his conscience and he knew if he touched her, all would be lost. The King would find out and he'd be stripped of everything. She didn't care about any of it and just wanted to be with him.
I mentioned tension, yes. There were some super steamy scenes, one of which left me yelling, "WHAT?" Ewen was that honorable. He was so determined to not be like his drunken, daft father and to do that with Janet would destroy all that he stood for. It was tough for both of them. There were touches, kisses, and great dialogue, especially with Ewen not having any filters and her with her wit and charm.
As with all of the Highland Guard novels, there's action, adventure, danger, close calls, and even a capture. These elements combined with the forbidden romance, kept me riveted and turning the pages.
One scene I was hoping for that wasn't in the book was the reunion of Janet and Mary. I don't know what I was expecting, but it was a mere mention. They'd been through a lot and were separated for so long. I can only imagine the hugs and tears that they exchanged. I wish I could've been there. Mary never gave up looking for her.
Regardless, the book earns an easy, easy five stars. I loved the characters, the story, and just everything about it.
Sister Genna is a spitfire and deceitful as all get out, but only in the name of her country and her king, Robert the Bruce. She's a smooth talker and calm under pressure and is adept and talking her way out of perilous situations. She's strong, independent, and is convinced she will take the veil and spend her life alone with no man or children. She's all good with it until Ewen.
Man, the heat between these two is off the charts. We have Ewen who is to bring Sister Genna, a courier, to the King who has betrothed her to another man, something she doesn't know until it's too late. Ewen knew all along and his strong sense of duty, honor, and staying focused on his mission was what kept him in line. But he was attracted to her like he'd never been attracted to any woman before and she was just as attracted to him. This created a lot of tension. He knew he could never have her and she didn't understand why, especially after he discovered she was Lady Janet of Mar. That further complicated things for him. She didn't understand why they couldn't be together and they'd exchanged some heated kisses...I mean, they were HOT! She no longer wanted to take the veil and damned the life of aristocracy.
Ewen had a finger of land, no money, and an unfinished castle that he'd promised his father he would finish after his father laid dying after doing a foolish stunt. He had nothing to offer her and no prospects until after the war was over when he was to get money and have his title restored. His virtue was at stake as well as his conscience and he knew if he touched her, all would be lost. The King would find out and he'd be stripped of everything. She didn't care about any of it and just wanted to be with him.
I mentioned tension, yes. There were some super steamy scenes, one of which left me yelling, "WHAT?" Ewen was that honorable. He was so determined to not be like his drunken, daft father and to do that with Janet would destroy all that he stood for. It was tough for both of them. There were touches, kisses, and great dialogue, especially with Ewen not having any filters and her with her wit and charm.
As with all of the Highland Guard novels, there's action, adventure, danger, close calls, and even a capture. These elements combined with the forbidden romance, kept me riveted and turning the pages.
One scene I was hoping for that wasn't in the book was the reunion of Janet and Mary. I don't know what I was expecting, but it was a mere mention. They'd been through a lot and were separated for so long. I can only imagine the hugs and tears that they exchanged. I wish I could've been there. Mary never gave up looking for her.
Regardless, the book earns an easy, easy five stars. I loved the characters, the story, and just everything about it.
May 31, 2013
Spies, hot highlanders, a steamy romance, and a setting in the midst of a war torn Scotland. That’s what we get in this fantastic book. The Hunter was a fantastic highlander romance. I absolutely loved it!
I loved how the two main characters were a spy and a member of a secret guard. It made things so interesting, especially considering the turbulence of the time period. When you put two such strong minded and skilled people together, you’re bound to have a ton of fun seeing their battle of wills. And it allowed this book to have accurate historical detail without overwhelming the romance.
Janet was incredibly strong willed. After a tragic event, she threw herself into the war effort to escape her past. She’s extremely skilled in her role as a spy and she’s not about to let anyone take that away from her. I really liked her character. I thought it was hilarious that she could sweet talk anyone, even a king, to do her bidding and make it seem like it was their idea. If I had one thing to say against her, it would be that her stubbornness was occasionally frustrating. She’s very strong minded, and sometimes that didn’t work to her advantage. For example, she refused to see the danger in being a spy, believing that she could handle anything. But, that wasn’t true. And she found out the hard way. However, that was only a slight issue, and I still really liked her. She was one tough chick!
Ewan was just as formidable with his skills as a tracker. He was an awesome hero. Intensely loyal, very skilled, protective of his loved ones, and so sweet when he wanted to be. I appreciated that he didn’t belittle Janet’s skill. At first, he came off as sexist, as he was adamant that women shouldn’t be in the midst of war. But, he had a reason for it. Something that happened in the past and has haunted him since. And, he never had that mindset because he thought less of women, but because he honestly didn’t want them hurt in the war (though try telling that to Janet). Eventually, he sheds that way of thinking. But, even with that, I adored him right away. He was so sweet and adorable and a totally perfect hero. He was definitely easy to fall for.
The romance was well done. Janet and Ewan definitely had some obstacles in their relationship. But, that didn’t stop them from falling in love and fighting to be together. There were sparks between these two immediately. There was just the right amount of spice between them. And, they were also very sweet together. They were a lovely couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was hooked right away and riveting throughout the entire books. There were a few thrills to keep you on the edge of your seat as Janet and Ewan navigated though a war. And the ending was perfect.
The Hunter was an excellent highlander romance. If you’re looking for a great romance read, you don’t need to look any further. This is your book.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine Books for a copy!
I loved how the two main characters were a spy and a member of a secret guard. It made things so interesting, especially considering the turbulence of the time period. When you put two such strong minded and skilled people together, you’re bound to have a ton of fun seeing their battle of wills. And it allowed this book to have accurate historical detail without overwhelming the romance.
Janet was incredibly strong willed. After a tragic event, she threw herself into the war effort to escape her past. She’s extremely skilled in her role as a spy and she’s not about to let anyone take that away from her. I really liked her character. I thought it was hilarious that she could sweet talk anyone, even a king, to do her bidding and make it seem like it was their idea. If I had one thing to say against her, it would be that her stubbornness was occasionally frustrating. She’s very strong minded, and sometimes that didn’t work to her advantage. For example, she refused to see the danger in being a spy, believing that she could handle anything. But, that wasn’t true. And she found out the hard way. However, that was only a slight issue, and I still really liked her. She was one tough chick!
Ewan was just as formidable with his skills as a tracker. He was an awesome hero. Intensely loyal, very skilled, protective of his loved ones, and so sweet when he wanted to be. I appreciated that he didn’t belittle Janet’s skill. At first, he came off as sexist, as he was adamant that women shouldn’t be in the midst of war. But, he had a reason for it. Something that happened in the past and has haunted him since. And, he never had that mindset because he thought less of women, but because he honestly didn’t want them hurt in the war (though try telling that to Janet). Eventually, he sheds that way of thinking. But, even with that, I adored him right away. He was so sweet and adorable and a totally perfect hero. He was definitely easy to fall for.
The romance was well done. Janet and Ewan definitely had some obstacles in their relationship. But, that didn’t stop them from falling in love and fighting to be together. There were sparks between these two immediately. There was just the right amount of spice between them. And, they were also very sweet together. They were a lovely couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was hooked right away and riveting throughout the entire books. There were a few thrills to keep you on the edge of your seat as Janet and Ewan navigated though a war. And the ending was perfect.
The Hunter was an excellent highlander romance. If you’re looking for a great romance read, you don’t need to look any further. This is your book.
*Thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine Books for a copy!
June 29, 2013
I keep thinking that the next book in this series cannot possibly get any better and I continue to be wrong (thankfully!). Ewen "Hunter" Lamont was perfectly matched with the fiery Janet of Mar and it was definitely a battle of wills.
Ewen is a proud man of few words and is known as the most skilled tracker in all of Scotland. He's got something to prove and has been loyal to Robert the Bruce's cause from the outset. When he was asked to escort the nun Sister Genna back to the Priory after one of her covert courier runs, he doesn't question the assignment. Ewen is unaware of her true identity and is uncomfortably attractive to this holy woman. Sister Genna is really Janet of Mar who was believed to have been killed in the failed rescue attempt of her twin sister, Mary. Janet is a force and extremely independent, not seeing the need for his protection so the tug of war for control never ended.
The sexual tension between these two was heightened by their constant clashes and it helped create a perfect transition to their inevitable romance. They were a formidable team in the face of danger from the enemy English forces who were a constant throughout their journey. Janet dismantles this brooding warrior and he certainly disrupted her plans to really become a nun.
This story is outstanding primarily because of how wonderfully crafted Ewen and Janet are as characters and how well suited they are as a couple. She's exceptional and holds her own against any of Bruce's warriors and he provides her the challenge she never knew she was looking for. The adventures of the Highland Guard never disappoint in providing excitement and political intrigue in this series. The historical aspects of the era are finely woven into the wonderful storytelling, the result being a vivid portrayal of Scotland's fight for independence. But, the romance is the real jewel this time and made The Hunter a truly exceptional story.
(I received an ARC from Edelweiss)
Ewen is a proud man of few words and is known as the most skilled tracker in all of Scotland. He's got something to prove and has been loyal to Robert the Bruce's cause from the outset. When he was asked to escort the nun Sister Genna back to the Priory after one of her covert courier runs, he doesn't question the assignment. Ewen is unaware of her true identity and is uncomfortably attractive to this holy woman. Sister Genna is really Janet of Mar who was believed to have been killed in the failed rescue attempt of her twin sister, Mary. Janet is a force and extremely independent, not seeing the need for his protection so the tug of war for control never ended.
The sexual tension between these two was heightened by their constant clashes and it helped create a perfect transition to their inevitable romance. They were a formidable team in the face of danger from the enemy English forces who were a constant throughout their journey. Janet dismantles this brooding warrior and he certainly disrupted her plans to really become a nun.
This story is outstanding primarily because of how wonderfully crafted Ewen and Janet are as characters and how well suited they are as a couple. She's exceptional and holds her own against any of Bruce's warriors and he provides her the challenge she never knew she was looking for. The adventures of the Highland Guard never disappoint in providing excitement and political intrigue in this series. The historical aspects of the era are finely woven into the wonderful storytelling, the result being a vivid portrayal of Scotland's fight for independence. But, the romance is the real jewel this time and made The Hunter a truly exceptional story.
(I received an ARC from Edelweiss)
November 29, 2025
After a failed attempt at rescuing her twin sister, Janet of Mar has been working for Bruce King of Scotland as a spy. She is posing as a nun, carrying messages about the English war intent. A vital piece of King Bruce's effort, her plans are interrupted when a handsome highland warrior comes to her rescue...whether she wants it or not.
Ewen “Hunter” Lamont has been serving on King Bruce's elite guard, hoping to restore his family's name and properties. As one of the best trackers in the king's army, Hunter was chosen to search out a missing carrier. The same woman who fired all his sensual desires, even when he thought her to be a nun. Bringing her home might be difficult, but returning her for an arranged marriage might be the hardest thing he has ever to do.
Two extremely strong, intelligent characters with similar goals clash like the titans...watching the developing relationship between Janet and Hunter was magnificent. I loved seeing Hunter's perceptions slowly change, discovering the value, strength and ability of the woman in his care...while it was amazing to have a woman portrayed with such capable and masterful abilities in a historical romance.
I truly enjoyed The Hunter. You'd need a chainsaw to cut the romantic tension in this story. There was plenty of action and swordplay play but what I found most riveting was the emotional connection to the characters. I absolutely loved Janet; her ability to adapt and thrive through any circumstance made her a heroine to make all women proud. Ewen was the dark and brooding highlander with a touch of emotional baggage. Monica McCarty created the perfect recipe for a fabulously entertaining historical romance.
This ARC copy of The Hunter was given to me by Random House - Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review. Publication Date June 25, 2013.
Ewen “Hunter” Lamont has been serving on King Bruce's elite guard, hoping to restore his family's name and properties. As one of the best trackers in the king's army, Hunter was chosen to search out a missing carrier. The same woman who fired all his sensual desires, even when he thought her to be a nun. Bringing her home might be difficult, but returning her for an arranged marriage might be the hardest thing he has ever to do.
Two extremely strong, intelligent characters with similar goals clash like the titans...watching the developing relationship between Janet and Hunter was magnificent. I loved seeing Hunter's perceptions slowly change, discovering the value, strength and ability of the woman in his care...while it was amazing to have a woman portrayed with such capable and masterful abilities in a historical romance.
I truly enjoyed The Hunter. You'd need a chainsaw to cut the romantic tension in this story. There was plenty of action and swordplay play but what I found most riveting was the emotional connection to the characters. I absolutely loved Janet; her ability to adapt and thrive through any circumstance made her a heroine to make all women proud. Ewen was the dark and brooding highlander with a touch of emotional baggage. Monica McCarty created the perfect recipe for a fabulously entertaining historical romance.
This ARC copy of The Hunter was given to me by Random House - Ballantine Books in exchange for an honest review. Publication Date June 25, 2013.
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