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Highland Destroyer

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Welcome to Book Two in the exciting HIGHLAND LEGION series!

When a betrothal is broken by a wayward bride, Darien dun Tahr finds himself in an awkward... and unknowingly dangerous… position.

Lies, secrets, and betrayal abound in Scotland in this passionate tale of true love!

Darien, the second son of Lares dun Tarh, finds himself betrothed to a wealthy lass from a good Scottish family. He’s not particularly eager to marry, but he’s not particularly opposed to it, either. His new bride, a high-strung and vain woman, is insulted by his apathy, leaving a crack in the relationship between her family and his. Emelia Moriston is a troublemaker and always has been, but not as much as she is when she realizes Darien isn’t falling at her feet.

Not that it matters, because she doesn’t want him, anyway.

She wants her sister’s betrothed.

On the eve of Emelia and Darien’s wedding, the bride and her sister’s intended elope, leaving devastation in their wake. Darien is truthfully relieved that he doesn’t have to marry the demanding Emelia, but he doesn’t expect to find himself in the position of comforting her sister.

The fair and sweet Eventide.

Evie Moriston couldn’t be any more different from her sister. A kind and beautiful lass, she was betrothed to a son from the powerful Cannich family. But he’s left her and although Evie wasn’t in love with him, the humiliation is more than she can bear until Darien gives her what comfort he can. Then, she begins to realize why she wasn’t so keen on her Cannich husband.

It was because he lacked everything that Darien has.

And so, the love story… and the heartache… begin.

Join Darien and Evie in a rip-roaring tale that sees the wayward bride return with tales of a dead lover and lies that she uses to try and tear two families apart. In the Highlands, where blood is often strongest bond men hold, Darien and Evie find that passion, and love, is stronger still. Stronger than the lies that try to break it.

Airson a h-uile àm.
For all time.

Read in KINDLE UNLIMITED!

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 14, 2025

196 people are currently reading
32 people want to read

About the author

Kathryn Le Veque

324 books2,083 followers
Juggernaut Indie author Kathryn Le Veque is a 'tour de force' in publishing.

Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.

Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.

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5 stars
449 (72%)
4 stars
122 (19%)
3 stars
41 (6%)
2 stars
4 (<1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Rainelle.
2,195 reviews123 followers
March 6, 2025
Highland Destroyer. I always feel giddy with excitement when a author writes a book that’s worth cuddling up to. So much so that I absolutely look forward to enjoying that good cup of tea, while I’m sitting in my favorite chair. My fellow readers this is a romantic story that you just cannot miss. It has romance.
Oh my stars does it of have romance. It has entertaining elements that are just classic. We can’t forget the oh so irresistible moments of passionate lovers delight. And I mean L O V E’R S delight. Ohhhh, I really wanted the writer to give me more of that!
But I forgive her and will look for it in the next book. And did I mention that there is some unbelievable family drama that once again put the Ewing family to shame? I did not miss not one single sentence in the most dramatic event of the Season. Poor Evie and Darien. I championed so hard for these two.
It seems as though the hole world is against them. Someone has got to make it right. I felt sympathy when there were times of sorrow in the book. I felt elation when there were moments of happiness when family was your family. I enjoyed this book so much.
The writing was unbelievably good. The author’s talent is mind blowing. Like I say. I love it when a book reads like a movie in for my imagination. That’s when you know the writer is darn good.
I give this book two snaps and a— A note to all future wives of the dun Tahr clan. It’s not nice to fool with mother Mable. Bwahaha! Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
3,253 reviews33 followers
January 14, 2025
Highland Destroyer by Katheryn Le Veque is a different kind of plot for Le Veque, which is not to say not good. Darien, the second son of Lares den Tarh, Earl of Torridon, has been betrothed to Emelia Moriston, the eldest daughter and heir of a wealthy and respected land owner. Lares has heard rumors about the woman but he is anxious to obtain a future for his son, who is otherwise penniless. When Darien arrives at the keep for the wedding he discovers his betrothed has run away with her sister, Eventide’s, betrothed, Luke Cannich. As it turns out he had been her lover for awhile. She was in it for a new life, he was in it for her money. No one has any idea where they have gone until some of the men report sighting them. As the elopers run from city to city, the meager amount of money they had has run out and both are forced into employment. Emelia is angry and behaves in less than respectable ways as part of her job at a local tavern. Soon Luke hears of his wife’s antics and they argue with him falling out the window of their second floor lodgings. She is afraid that she has killed him and she runs home. Much more complicated, really.

Even her father now recognizes how Emelia has manipulated him all her life and is less than sympathetic but there are legalities to be dealt with. Darien flat out refuses to marry Emelia based on her character. Evie is just happy she on’t have to marry Luke. The whole thing is, frankly, a mess. As the whole things is slowly resolved we catch glimpses of love developing between Evie and Darien, but can they get past the church official that has arrived at the keep? So much more detail in the book. Excellent plot. Good characters. I especially liked Mabel, Darien’s mother, who does not put up with much. Lares adores her but recognizes how difficult she can be when it suits her. Great book!

I was invited to read Highland Destroyer by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #KathrynLeVeque #HighlandDestroyer.
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,339 reviews118 followers
January 11, 2025
Highland Destroyer by Kathryn Le Veque
Highland Legion #2

Runaway couple leave their betrothed behind but is it a curse or a blessing for those that do not marry the two that run away?

What I liked:
* Evie: younger sister, bullied, betrayed, stronger than she thinks, truthful, caring, kind, will stand up for what she wants ~ and she wants Darrien
* Darrien: second son of Lares, has a temper, strong, wise, works for Robbie Stewart, dutiful but only to an extent, loves his family, generous, knows he wants Evie for his wife
* Watching the interest and respect felt by Evie and Darrien grow once they were released from their betrothal contracts ~ They are perfect for and with one another
* Reading a full-length novel by an author I’ve enjoyed novellas of before
* The way the author put in enough of the backstory to make this easily stand on its own
* Mabel: the mother of Darrien, strong, force to be reckoned with, wants what is best for her children, able to get her point across, really liked her
* The way Evie’s father’s eyes were opened to a few things and how he changed at least a bit by the end of the story
* That there was no sugar-coating to make Emilia better than she was
* That Luke did the right thing in the end…maybe
* That Karma worked things out for both couples and the way the author let us know just what that happened to be in the epilogue
* Knowing that there will be another book in the series and that I’ve found an author I would like to read again.

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about how the offspring in this era, male and female, had little to say about their destinies as all was in the hands of their fathers
* Thinking about what REALLY makes a person like Emilia…

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read another book by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade publishing for the ARC – this is my honest review.

5 Stars
Profile Image for Sportochick.
623 reviews13 followers
January 14, 2025
I just love the twisting storyline which delighted this reader and created a read that was not boring. Readers will fall in love instantly with the main characters Darien, the second son of Lares dun Tarh and Eventide (Evie) Moriston. Both are no nonsense type of people and a breath of fresh air. Plain spoken is a thing that they did well.

The author's portrayal of Emelia Moriston as a selfish, self-centered troublemaker reminded me of a few woman I have come across and is very believable. Evie’s betrothed Luke Cannich isn’t much better but at least he isn’t a total mess… well I will take that back and can’t wait to see what other readers have to say about him. But a part of me felt so sorry for him and the life he chose.

This story caused a lot of feelings because the parents’ reactions and interactions were sometimes painful and other times made me laugh. But the overall feeling was that a great love is worth fighting and dying for.

There are quite a few interesting characters, including Darien’s large family and his loyal group of friends, demanding their own story and it will be fun to see where this series goes.

I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,547 reviews88 followers
January 13, 2025
Favoritism in families generally leads to heartache, especially when the golden child believes they are entitled to whatever they want. Evie spent her life in the shadow of her spoilt sister, ignored by her parents and spitefully used by Emelia. Neither daughter had any say over the grooms their father chose for them, nor were they pleased with his choice. It goes without saying that Emelia wanted what Evie had as her groom was far more adventurous than Emelia's, leading her to elope with Evie's groom on the eve of her wedding, thereby throwing both families into turmoil and a revenge attack on the Cannich stronghold. Finding themselves in the same boat, Darien dun Tahr and Evie cautiously reach out to one another only to discover they are both relieved by the chain of events. Unfortunately, no one could have anticipated how far Emelia would go to have her own way, almost resulting in further destruction. A last-minute reprieve allows Darien and Evie to follow their hearts and justice being served in a fitting manner. I received a copy of this well-written and enjoyable romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
851 reviews10 followers
January 5, 2025
I will admit, I am not normally one to pick up Medieval stories but this one tempted me and i am so very glad I chose it! I have read this author before and enjoyed her style of writing and this one does not disappoint . Evie and Darian are a powerful couple, and their love just flows off the page. How Emilia is written was fabulously dark and the twists and turns of her trajectory was very eye-opening. It makes one realize how truly BAD selfishness and greed really are. Darian’s parents are a joy and I loved their banter, as it reminds me of my own spouse. Her ability to lead with an iron fist was something to behold….used to call that a “healthy fear” of a parent .These characters are so very real and believable , that I felt like part of the group. A very well rounded story, with all the emotions put into play. Adored it!

I received this for free through NetGalley and these are my own views.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,099 reviews19 followers
January 13, 2025
Battles, Lies, Turmoil, Forever Love:
Hold on to your seat. This story starts like a crazed wild cat trying to escape and ends with a wonderful love match that captured my heart.
We start with Darien having to face an unwanted marriage to Evie's lascivious sister (Emelia) where the bride disappears at the last moment.
That sets up the plot for the entire story that now turns into an intriguing love story but there is much turmoil and deception before they finally reach a shocking happy ever after ending.
A thrilling story that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire book. I read this book in one day.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
🤦‍♀️I have always enjoyed KLV books, but I just have to voice my opinion on this cover. It was not to my liking at all and did Darien an injustice.



1,948 reviews18 followers
January 13, 2025
This is a story that is well written and very entertaining. I loved the unexpected connection between Darien and Evie. The person they were each to have married ran away together, which in the long run was for the best. They get their HEA but it is not easy as trouble strikes and when I thought all might be lost a surprise appearance saves them. There are several other characters that I came to appreciate, Lares who is Darien’s father, but the one person that I absolutely loved was Mabel. She was a force to be reckoned with and she had the attitude of take no prisoners. I especially loved the Prologue that recalled the initial meeting of Lares and Mabel. This is an excellent story that is worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and are voluntarily leaving a review.
1,221 reviews15 followers
January 16, 2025
Medieval Romance That Will Keep You Turning the Pages

Darien's bride runs off with her sister's betrothed. It is a disaster, or is it? Can it be the best thing that has happened to him? He has never cared for his bride, but he agrees to marry her because his father wishes it. Now that she is gone, he finds himself comforting her sister, whose betrothed has run off with his bride. There is more than friendship between them, but what happens when Emelia returns? Treachery abounds, and Darien and Evie find themselves fighting for their happiness.

This story kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to those who like Scottish medieval romance. I look forward to what this author writes next.
1,030 reviews4 followers
January 18, 2025
Vile, vindictive woman.

Darien dun Tahr was in a betrothal with a woman with a questionable reputation. But his father had arranged it for him so he would gain a title, wealth and property. Emilia was his betrothed. On the eve of their wedding she ran off with her sister’s betrothed, Luke. Evie, the sister, was beautiful and kind and giving. Everything Emilia was not. Darien and Evie were relieved that Emilia had run off with Luke. As Darien and Evie grew closer Emilia and Luke’s life fell into chaos and it wasn’t long before Emilia wanted what her sister had once more. Loved the characters, the good one and the bad ones. This story was so engaging and packed full of angst and action and drama that I read it almost straight through in one day. KLV never disappoints.
Profile Image for Carole Burant.
1,277 reviews36 followers
January 21, 2025
It's a battle of a different kind in this story which involves Darien & Evie and Emelia & Luke (those two being the villains!). Wait til you start reading what Emelia does and the lengths she will go to get her own way, it just boggles the mind. I was so happy that Darien and Evie's love for each other is so strong and united and even though at times it seemed their future happiness was at risk, they refused to let Emelia get away with it.

All in all, the story and characters are very riveting and I must give a special shoutout to Mable, Darien's mother.....what a hoot she is!! I also really loved Evie and how, after years of being bullied, comes into her own and refuses to be walked on any longer.

A romance for the ages!!
Profile Image for Petula.
3,086 reviews86 followers
January 10, 2025
We're off to the Scottish Highlands for this medieval romance.  This is the second book in the series,  but you can read any of them separately.  

Our hero is one of a large family born and bred in the highlands but with Mediterranean roots. His life is about to be turned upside down on the whim of a woman.

I won't tell you anything about the heroine because that would spoil the story. 

We get wonderful characters,  emotional moments,  danger, and surprises in this fabulous book.  

I will read every book this author writes because they are always different and addictive.  Once I pick them up, I can never put them down until they are finished.  

I loved it. 
702 reviews
January 14, 2025
An innovative and different plot from the usual stories by this author. I love her work and generally read between everyday events. This story however, once I started it, I told everyone to leave me alone until I finished it. Two sisters are to be married until one runs off with the others fiance. What takes place is a wildly twisted plot that will have you on the edge of your seat. The main characters are phenomenal and the secondary ones add such depth to the overall story line. Well done to one of my favorite authors who never fails to surprise me with her creative story telling abilities.
26 reviews
May 27, 2025
Highland destroyer

As expected darien's father had set up As expected Darian's father had set up a prearranged marriage for him. Darian was willing to go through with the marriage because his father had already arranged it. His bride to be was the heir Because the sun had died in an accident. Therefore, Therefore, Darien would receive Riches and land through this marriage. There was also a second daughter named Eventide who was also betrothed. Things doesn't go according to plan while surprises come up everywhere with everyone involved. I really enjoyed this story and give it a 4.
Profile Image for Cindy C..
1,142 reviews13 followers
January 15, 2025
Loved It! What a Fantastic Story! Highland Destroyer will keep you spellbound as it takes you on a rollercoaster ride that weaves a story from beginning to end with threads of intrigue, greed, suspense and family unity.
Kathryn Le Veque characters in this romance are amazingly crafted, with her characters traveling a tension building path full of twists and turns, passion, secrets, trials and tribulations, with plenty of emotion and uncertainties through out this story makes this a very captivating read.

I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion
Profile Image for Cathy.
788 reviews
January 22, 2025
HIGHLAND DESTROYER by Kathryn Le Veque. This was a tale I truly enjoyed. Darien, our Hero, was just that - a Hero. He was fierce and strong but also kind and gentle. He had a tender heart and was oh so lovable. Evie, our heroine, was strong but also a sweet and kind soul. The two together were amazing. I enjoyed the twists and turns, the family dynamics and the way true love shown through. Recommend this one to any that enjoys a Highlander tale that keeps you immersed in the story. (received ARC from NetGalley for honest review)
Profile Image for Dorothy.
195 reviews
January 28, 2025
Highland destroyer
By Kathryn LeVeque

Kathryn LeVeque continues to create Medieval worlds populated by impressive warriors and their feisty mates. The story revolves around the love story between Darien and Evie and how they and their families deal with Evie’s deceptive and manipulative sister. It’s hard to imagine family life in the Scottish Middle Ages but Ms. LeVeque draws a canvas of family dynamics that could be found anywhere during anytime. It’s a tribute to this author’s imagination that she can weave a tale to entrance so many and lead us to the happily ever after.
Profile Image for Bunga.
678 reviews13 followers
December 17, 2025
Ipar adalah maut, combo, versi jaman Highlander lol. Baru buka prolog udah disuguhi adegan perselingkuhan. Di sini yang selingkuh adalah tunangannya ML dan tunangannya FL, mereka kawin lari dengan alasan masing-masing yang bikin geger dan malu keluarga mereka. Asli bikin emosi tiap plot mereka nongol. Biar begitu antagonisnya lebih ke bikin emosi jiwa aja sih. Judul novelnya Destroyer, tapi bagian perangnya cuma seuprit. Malah lebih banyak adegan jambak-jambakan dan tampar-tamparan karakter cewe-cewenya. Seru sih asli 🤣
698 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2025
Another Great Story

A story full of lies, treachery and finally a truth that couldn't be denied! Love conquers all. Darien was betrothed to one sister who was full of nothing good. The other sister, Eventide, was betrothed to another man. Envy and lust rear their ugly heads and try to ruin everyone's lives. Kathryn Le Veque knows how to write a story that will stay with the reader for a long while
Profile Image for Crystal Butler.
518 reviews3 followers
January 30, 2025
Loved this story!

Luke Cannich was betrothed to Eventide but her sister Emelia was having a secret affair with him even though she was betrothed to Darien dun Tarah. Emelia was the oldest sister, a trouble maker and she had a spectacular dowry and Luke wanted it. He wanted her to marry him. Luke and Emelia run off the day of her wedding to Darien. A lot of exciting things happen after that.
Profile Image for Shirley Hamlod.
1,112 reviews7 followers
January 31, 2025
Another enjoyable story from one of my favourite authors. Darien is set to wed Emelia who is spoiled and loose with her morals. However, Emelia decides to run off with her sister’s fiancé. This sets in motion a train of events that upends the lives of no less than three families. There are lots of lies to sort through but the truth will out! Neither Darien nor Evie are upset by their respective desertions by their betrothed and find solace in one another.
Profile Image for Cody Marie Phoenix.
1,086 reviews6 followers
January 6, 2025
A highly entertaining Highland read! It's hard to imagine that Miss Le Veque hasn't ever written a "Scottish" novel. I find it fascinating that the dun Tarh's are rumored to be descendants of the Legio IX Hispana.. The characters are wonderful and I absolutely love Mabel! The plot was a wee bit predictable to me, but it didn't make it any less enjoyable... so much so I finished it in a day.
364 reviews
February 22, 2025
Good story, although telling the reader Luke was “..dead when he hit the ground.” wasn’t very fair. It cheapened the final twist - made it seem too far fetched. Only 7 typos and one content question - why “L and E” and not “D and E” ? Lowmoor? Just seems odd since the whole story refers to him as Darien.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,344 reviews5 followers
January 5, 2025
This was an excellent story, Evie and Darien is a true love story. Her evil sister almost ruined it all. There's danger, lies, deceit and a spoiled daughter, Evie's sister. Enjoy this book it is truly a great book. HEA.
207 reviews
January 16, 2025
Not the best.

Well, it had to happen at some point. Usually KLV books get a five star review from me, this is the exception to the rule. I confess I found it repetitive and boring in parts, certainly not up to KLV's usual standard. Such a shame.
195 reviews2 followers
January 17, 2025
Awesome adventure

I so love reading your stories!!! This one was very interesting and exciting. What they had to go through was incredible. The characters were amazing and brave. Love does conquer all! Thanks for sharing another amazing adventure!!!
59 reviews
January 17, 2025
Another wonderful story!

I'm not good with writing a reviews but I know a great story when I read one. Always you write the best. This story was a fun and interesting as always. Can't wait for the next.
96 reviews
January 17, 2025
A great story , book 2 of Highland Legion.

I always love reading Kathryn’s books. I so love her books with stories of the Knights but the Highland Legion series is awesome! Her characters will pull you in and make you a part of their lives.
Profile Image for kristine bennett.
113 reviews1 follower
January 17, 2025
Another great story

I really liked Darien's story. I felt that Eve and Darien were meant to be together. And after their ups and downs because of her sister's lies they had their happy ever after.
94 reviews1 follower
January 18, 2025
Another winner!

There is absolutely nothing I dislike about this book! I can always depend on this author to keep me entertained with an awesome story. Darien and Eve are perfect for each other and the evil character s get their just desserts ! Just the way I like it!
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