What do you think?
Rate this book
Highland Guard #10
The Striker
The highly anticipated tenth book in Monica McCarty's Highland Guard series, a warrior's renowned expertise in strategic warfare is no match for love's treacherous battlefield.
Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife—and himself for trusting her.
Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.
Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife—and himself for trusting her.
Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.
444 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 24, 2015
180 people are currently reading
2201 people want to read
About the author
Monica McCarty
61 books2,965 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?
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews
December 2, 2015
*An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the writer and the publisher for the opportunity to read this.*
(Upgraded to 4 stars after my re-read.)
The Striker is a novel about second chances. Once upon a time, two lovers fell victim to their own flaws and imperfections, which quickly led to misunderstandings, estrangement and eventually, plans for revenge. (I'm careful not to use "betrayal" here, since that would be an inaccurate term to describe what happened.)
Now, fate brings them together and they are given an opportunity to move forward—no matter how painful and frustrating the past may be.
I'm not going to lie to you; this was not an easy read. I blushed. I laughed. I cried. I raged. I loved. All with an intensity that scared me. I think I have to make it clear that this is not for everybody, because I'm sure that not everybody will give Maggie and Eoin a second chance to prove themselves. It's so easy to just give up on them, to brush them aside in frustration over their screw-ups. And believe me, there were many. We're given so many opportunities to brand them as immature or even, stupid.
But then, that wouldn't give them and their story justice at all. Because their imperfections are part of what makes this such a compelling read. Their struggles give this story depth.
Maggie and Eoin are two very flawed characters, and Monica McCarty does not make any excuses for them. Instead, she basks in their flaws—their humanity—and crafts a story of two people who mature as individuals and as lovers.
I think one of the issues that others may have with this is the insta-lust or insta-love that happened between Maggie and Eoin. Yes, I do admit that they were fiercely and irrationally attracted to each other from the get-go. And yes, I also admit that I was not convinced about them falling in love during their "getting-to-know-you" stage—especially since what really drew them together was mostly the sexual pull. But this opinion of mine gradually changed the more I read about their struggles to keep their marriage in tact. You see, they really did fight for their relationship. There was no question of that. But the thing is, they were just too immature and misguided to know the right way to deal with their problems. And that immaturity snowballed into a massive beast that neither of them could face at the time.
Maggie, for one, was too careless, too selfish and too immature. It's so very easy to hate her. To be honest, that was actually my knee-jerk reaction to her and her antics. There were so many times I wanted to throttle her for being too demanding and inconsiderate, especially when she seemed oblivious to the fact that Eoin was fighting in a bloody war. God. I even came perilously close to abandoning the book because of her.
But I couldn't, because deep inside I understood that, to a certain extent, she was justified in her actions. She was immature because she was young. I'm not trying to excuse her for what she did, but really, let's be realistic, what naive young woman knows the key to a successful marriage? Hell, that's something that even experienced adults are struggling with. Yes, she made mistakes. But she was consistent with how she was established in the story. And what's more, she learned and changed for the better.
Eoin was not without his own share of faults, as well. Okay, so he had a duty to fulfil, but he was wrong to just leave his wife to his family who clearly hated her. He was wrong to judge her without giving her the benefit of the doubt. He was wrong to try to change her into someone she was clearly not. He was wrong to hate her for six long years without giving her a chance to defend herself. But again, he was justified by his humanity. He merely responded naturally under the circumstances. If I were in his shoes, I would probably have done the same things. And just like Maggie, he changed—or at least, tried to—for the better.
As you can see, these two are not your usual romance novel leads. They're far too realistic to be anyone's ideal hero and heroine. And I'm okay with that. I wouldn't have it any other way. For me, seeing them mature and grow gives me an altogether different kind of happiness. Especially as a fan of the series who's seen how Eoin was in the past books.
Now, after finishing the book, I'm thoroughly convinced that they loved each other. I feel like all those trials were necessary to prove that what they shared went beyond the physical; they weren't just a case of insta-lust. I believe that every misunderstanding, every argument had a purpose. And I credit Ms. McCarty's brilliant writing for that. Her execution was not perfect, but it was beautiful enough to make me believe that Maggie and Eoin deserved a second chance.
Overall, I liked this very much. The ending seemed a bit rushed and had some deus ex machina feel to it, but the epilogue made up for this minor blunder. I loved how the story ended. I will definitely read this again.
(Upgraded to 4 stars after my re-read.)
The Striker is a novel about second chances. Once upon a time, two lovers fell victim to their own flaws and imperfections, which quickly led to misunderstandings, estrangement and eventually, plans for revenge. (I'm careful not to use "betrayal" here, since that would be an inaccurate term to describe what happened.)
Now, fate brings them together and they are given an opportunity to move forward—no matter how painful and frustrating the past may be.
I'm not going to lie to you; this was not an easy read. I blushed. I laughed. I cried. I raged. I loved. All with an intensity that scared me. I think I have to make it clear that this is not for everybody, because I'm sure that not everybody will give Maggie and Eoin a second chance to prove themselves. It's so easy to just give up on them, to brush them aside in frustration over their screw-ups. And believe me, there were many. We're given so many opportunities to brand them as immature or even, stupid.
But then, that wouldn't give them and their story justice at all. Because their imperfections are part of what makes this such a compelling read. Their struggles give this story depth.
Maggie and Eoin are two very flawed characters, and Monica McCarty does not make any excuses for them. Instead, she basks in their flaws—their humanity—and crafts a story of two people who mature as individuals and as lovers.
I think one of the issues that others may have with this is the insta-lust or insta-love that happened between Maggie and Eoin. Yes, I do admit that they were fiercely and irrationally attracted to each other from the get-go. And yes, I also admit that I was not convinced about them falling in love during their "getting-to-know-you" stage—especially since what really drew them together was mostly the sexual pull. But this opinion of mine gradually changed the more I read about their struggles to keep their marriage in tact. You see, they really did fight for their relationship. There was no question of that. But the thing is, they were just too immature and misguided to know the right way to deal with their problems. And that immaturity snowballed into a massive beast that neither of them could face at the time.
Maggie, for one, was too careless, too selfish and too immature. It's so very easy to hate her. To be honest, that was actually my knee-jerk reaction to her and her antics. There were so many times I wanted to throttle her for being too demanding and inconsiderate, especially when she seemed oblivious to the fact that Eoin was fighting in a bloody war. God. I even came perilously close to abandoning the book because of her.
But I couldn't, because deep inside I understood that, to a certain extent, she was justified in her actions. She was immature because she was young. I'm not trying to excuse her for what she did, but really, let's be realistic, what naive young woman knows the key to a successful marriage? Hell, that's something that even experienced adults are struggling with. Yes, she made mistakes. But she was consistent with how she was established in the story. And what's more, she learned and changed for the better.
Eoin was not without his own share of faults, as well. Okay, so he had a duty to fulfil, but he was wrong to just leave his wife to his family who clearly hated her. He was wrong to judge her without giving her the benefit of the doubt. He was wrong to try to change her into someone she was clearly not. He was wrong to hate her for six long years without giving her a chance to defend herself. But again, he was justified by his humanity. He merely responded naturally under the circumstances. If I were in his shoes, I would probably have done the same things. And just like Maggie, he changed—or at least, tried to—for the better.
As you can see, these two are not your usual romance novel leads. They're far too realistic to be anyone's ideal hero and heroine. And I'm okay with that. I wouldn't have it any other way. For me, seeing them mature and grow gives me an altogether different kind of happiness. Especially as a fan of the series who's seen how Eoin was in the past books.
Now, after finishing the book, I'm thoroughly convinced that they loved each other. I feel like all those trials were necessary to prove that what they shared went beyond the physical; they weren't just a case of insta-lust. I believe that every misunderstanding, every argument had a purpose. And I credit Ms. McCarty's brilliant writing for that. Her execution was not perfect, but it was beautiful enough to make me believe that Maggie and Eoin deserved a second chance.
Overall, I liked this very much. The ending seemed a bit rushed and had some deus ex machina feel to it, but the epilogue made up for this minor blunder. I loved how the story ended. I will definitely read this again.
March 23, 2024
ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
Reread 2024 - I would still give it give stars but have to say I loved the second have of the book more then the first half. The heroine was somewhat childish this time around for me. But she was only 18 years old so I think that also in character.
Reread and again a six star rating for this one.
Can I rate this as a six star please.
Wow, just finished and what an amazing read this was. Monica McCarty last couple of books were good but this, this one was excellent!!! Trying to gather my thoughts and emotions here as I write a review.
We begin the first chapter in the present tense with Eoin "Striker” planning an attack and capture of Dugald MacDowell. MacDowel was one of the last important opposition against Bruce and Striker was going to make sure that he was captured with no mess ups this time. Oh, one more thing, MacDowel was also the Father of his wife, who Striker hasn't seen in six year. His wife Margaret, who was about to marry another man was the perfect revenge for what he believes she did to him and his friends. In this opening scene we are given a hint of some terrible betrayal that Eoin has suffered at the hands of his wife and the deep hurt and bitterness he's still wrestling with. Margaret's thoughts are also on display and as well as her deep emotional turmoil as she is about to marry a man she cares about but doesn't love. We find her talking to her son, Eachann and thinking how he looks so much like her husband who she believes is dead because of her and a terrible misunderstanding. The emotions that emanate from this first chapter is gripping. I felt each characters pain, heartache and anger. The scene that unfolds is so full of emotion and is so gripping that you become immersed into these two characters worlds. The author did a beautiful job of setting the scene in present tense and transitioning to the past in the next chapter and how these two meet and fall in love.
The first half of the book is the story of how Eoin and Margaret meet and fall in love. Margaret is young, strong, confident, beautiful and considered a "wild" child. Eoin is handsome, intelligent, a great strategist and cousin to Bruce. He is working on becoming part of this elite group that Bruce has formed and that has has consumed Eoin life. He's considered serious, intense and reserved. When these two first meet they are shocked by the intense and strong pull they have for each other. We then witness the two fall into deep attraction and then a sweet first love. The relationship has challenges from outside forces as well two families with opposing sides to the war.Both Margaret and Eoin make young foolish mistakes that make you angry but yet you totally get and understand. And the amazing thing for me was I understood both sides and was equally sympathetic with each. And that I have to give credit to excellent writing and character development by the author (very rare for me, most times I end up taking a side). And then the unfolding of the suppose "betrayal" and the heartache and sorrow each character endures is gut wrenching.
Then the second half of the book we are taken back to the wedding/surprise attack scene. We witness how each character is in for quite a shock. Eoin seeing Margaret again and realizing his feelings aren't dead and he has a son. And Margaret seeing her "dead" husband standing in front of her. Her realizing that she has never stopped loving her husband and could never love anyone else but him. A brief moment of happiness that he came for her and then her heart is shattered. Heartbroken because she realizes he's back to capture her father, he didn't come for her and then seeing the anger and bitterness that is emanating from him as he looks at her. Her father then escapes and he takes Eoin and Margaret's son with him. The two must now join forces to find their son and Eoin needs to capture her father. Both begin to face past hurts, realize that not all was at it seemed, learn to forgive and most important to trust each other again. As beautiful as the first half of the book was in the two of them fall in love the second half was a deeper, more emotional journey of second chances and forever love. This love story was a complete package, everything just came together and had you experiencing every emotion. And the best part was the epilogue, beautiful and was the icing on the cake.
It was nice to see some of the past characters and revisit the world of the highland guard. I loved the pacing, not at anytime did I want to skim or put the book down. The plot was full of suspence, the history was engaging and interesting. I felt like I was transported and immersed back to Scotland in 1305. Thank you Monica McCarty and well done. And now waiting for the "The Rock"
A must read!!!!
Reread 2024 - I would still give it give stars but have to say I loved the second have of the book more then the first half. The heroine was somewhat childish this time around for me. But she was only 18 years old so I think that also in character.
Reread and again a six star rating for this one.
Can I rate this as a six star please.
Wow, just finished and what an amazing read this was. Monica McCarty last couple of books were good but this, this one was excellent!!! Trying to gather my thoughts and emotions here as I write a review.
We begin the first chapter in the present tense with Eoin "Striker” planning an attack and capture of Dugald MacDowell. MacDowel was one of the last important opposition against Bruce and Striker was going to make sure that he was captured with no mess ups this time. Oh, one more thing, MacDowel was also the Father of his wife, who Striker hasn't seen in six year. His wife Margaret, who was about to marry another man was the perfect revenge for what he believes she did to him and his friends. In this opening scene we are given a hint of some terrible betrayal that Eoin has suffered at the hands of his wife and the deep hurt and bitterness he's still wrestling with. Margaret's thoughts are also on display and as well as her deep emotional turmoil as she is about to marry a man she cares about but doesn't love. We find her talking to her son, Eachann and thinking how he looks so much like her husband who she believes is dead because of her and a terrible misunderstanding. The emotions that emanate from this first chapter is gripping. I felt each characters pain, heartache and anger. The scene that unfolds is so full of emotion and is so gripping that you become immersed into these two characters worlds. The author did a beautiful job of setting the scene in present tense and transitioning to the past in the next chapter and how these two meet and fall in love.
The first half of the book is the story of how Eoin and Margaret meet and fall in love. Margaret is young, strong, confident, beautiful and considered a "wild" child. Eoin is handsome, intelligent, a great strategist and cousin to Bruce. He is working on becoming part of this elite group that Bruce has formed and that has has consumed Eoin life. He's considered serious, intense and reserved. When these two first meet they are shocked by the intense and strong pull they have for each other. We then witness the two fall into deep attraction and then a sweet first love. The relationship has challenges from outside forces as well two families with opposing sides to the war.Both Margaret and Eoin make young foolish mistakes that make you angry but yet you totally get and understand. And the amazing thing for me was I understood both sides and was equally sympathetic with each. And that I have to give credit to excellent writing and character development by the author (very rare for me, most times I end up taking a side). And then the unfolding of the suppose "betrayal" and the heartache and sorrow each character endures is gut wrenching.
Then the second half of the book we are taken back to the wedding/surprise attack scene. We witness how each character is in for quite a shock. Eoin seeing Margaret again and realizing his feelings aren't dead and he has a son. And Margaret seeing her "dead" husband standing in front of her. Her realizing that she has never stopped loving her husband and could never love anyone else but him. A brief moment of happiness that he came for her and then her heart is shattered. Heartbroken because she realizes he's back to capture her father, he didn't come for her and then seeing the anger and bitterness that is emanating from him as he looks at her. Her father then escapes and he takes Eoin and Margaret's son with him. The two must now join forces to find their son and Eoin needs to capture her father. Both begin to face past hurts, realize that not all was at it seemed, learn to forgive and most important to trust each other again. As beautiful as the first half of the book was in the two of them fall in love the second half was a deeper, more emotional journey of second chances and forever love. This love story was a complete package, everything just came together and had you experiencing every emotion. And the best part was the epilogue, beautiful and was the icing on the cake.
It was nice to see some of the past characters and revisit the world of the highland guard. I loved the pacing, not at anytime did I want to skim or put the book down. The plot was full of suspence, the history was engaging and interesting. I felt like I was transported and immersed back to Scotland in 1305. Thank you Monica McCarty and well done. And now waiting for the "The Rock"
A must read!!!!
March 27, 2016
Highland Guard Eoin MacLean is completely captivated by Margaret (Maggie) MacDowell, despite her unconventional behavior and her being the daughter of Dugald MacDowell who opposes Bruce's claim to the throne. After their whirlwind marriage, he has cause to believe she betrayed him and Bruce's warriors to her father. Thinking Eoin had died in that fateful clash, Margaret prepares to remarry six years later, only to have him show up at the moment she's to take her vows. But, she's also got a surprise in store for him, too.
I loved this story, even when Maggie and Eoin's relationship woes would alternately make me want to scream or cry. Their behavior, however, was completely realistic given the circumstances. I enjoyed having Robert Bruce be an important element of the story, more front and center versus in the background. It was also insightful to learn about the perspectives of Scotsmen who didn't support Bruce's campaign to be restored to the throne.
This was my first time listening to the series and I'm now hooked! Anthony Ferguson delivers a wonderful performance, giving correct pronunciation to all those Gaelic names and words, as well as providing perfect emphasis to the story. As with most male narrators, his delivery of the female voices weren't perfect but it wasn't distracting.
Loved this story and the narration. Eoin and Maggie are two very strong, well developed characters and the historical element made this tale fascinating. 4.5 stars but 5 stars for the narration.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)
I loved this story, even when Maggie and Eoin's relationship woes would alternately make me want to scream or cry. Their behavior, however, was completely realistic given the circumstances. I enjoyed having Robert Bruce be an important element of the story, more front and center versus in the background. It was also insightful to learn about the perspectives of Scotsmen who didn't support Bruce's campaign to be restored to the throne.
This was my first time listening to the series and I'm now hooked! Anthony Ferguson delivers a wonderful performance, giving correct pronunciation to all those Gaelic names and words, as well as providing perfect emphasis to the story. As with most male narrators, his delivery of the female voices weren't perfect but it wasn't distracting.
Loved this story and the narration. Eoin and Maggie are two very strong, well developed characters and the historical element made this tale fascinating. 4.5 stars but 5 stars for the narration.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)
May 17, 2016
Reread: I am upgrading my original 4-star rating after the first reread. Yes the last 20% could have used more interactions between lead characters. But I have been thinking about this book for 3 or 4 days now after the reread. I think I am just really taken with Eoin. Yes he wasn't truthful about his involvement with Bruce, yes he left Maggie with his unfriendly family, yes yes yes to all the criticisms on Eoin's characters. But guy loved his wife. Maybe he wasn't the best husband in the world. But he loved Maggie. He really had no judgment when it came to her. He was angry, he didn't know what to do, he was frustrated, he was hurtful. But he did whatever he could in his limited capacity. He did what he had to do for his job and put his marriage in jeopardy. But he begged for a week leave to spend 2 days with his wife. He snuck away from his mission to see her. He struggled between duties to King and wife but I think time and again, the choice of his heart was always Maggie. That won him huge bonus points in my book. I don't care for a guy who says I love you, I can't live without you. I distrust a guy with a silver tongue in general and I can't like cheesy heroes. Eoin was definitely not your romantic hero. He wasn't a gallant knight nor was he romantic. But Eoin chose Maggie, even when everything and everyone told him not to. He never really "not choose" Maggie. He just chose Maggie in a different way, in the desperate way of a man divided between duty and love. Eoin was all about "no matter what, despite all, be mine" kind of love. I think I am in love. lol
Original Review:
4am, I read the last page.
I sorely need an escape from real life this past week and tonight I thought: let me try Monica McCarty's new book. I rarely read books so close to their release dates. It just isn't done in my book. I like to wait a little bit.
I am not disappointed. It is a good story. Granted, it is not my favorite out of all 10 books but i don't have so many favorites to begin with. The Striker is a well-written romance with all the signature Monica McCarty intensity and fast pace. Brace yourself for impact because Monica McCarty's characters always always, have one hell of a struggle in coming to terms with various topics in life. In this book, it is youthful love, trust and betrayal.
Maggie oh Maggie I had one word for her youthful self: cheeky. She was cheeky and impulsive. I usually would hate such a heroine but Monica McCarty made me like her. It's no small feat so I have to make an honorable mention here in my review.
My favorite so far is still The Raider. I have re-read that book 5 times and loved it every time . This book trials behind but honestly, still a much better story than a lot of books out there. Monica McCarty has my respect for creating one after another such charming stories. I love her writing, there is no other words for it.
Original Review:
4am, I read the last page.
I sorely need an escape from real life this past week and tonight I thought: let me try Monica McCarty's new book. I rarely read books so close to their release dates. It just isn't done in my book. I like to wait a little bit.
I am not disappointed. It is a good story. Granted, it is not my favorite out of all 10 books but i don't have so many favorites to begin with. The Striker is a well-written romance with all the signature Monica McCarty intensity and fast pace. Brace yourself for impact because Monica McCarty's characters always always, have one hell of a struggle in coming to terms with various topics in life. In this book, it is youthful love, trust and betrayal.
Maggie oh Maggie I had one word for her youthful self: cheeky. She was cheeky and impulsive. I usually would hate such a heroine but Monica McCarty made me like her. It's no small feat so I have to make an honorable mention here in my review.
My favorite so far is still The Raider. I have re-read that book 5 times and loved it every time . This book trials behind but honestly, still a much better story than a lot of books out there. Monica McCarty has my respect for creating one after another such charming stories. I love her writing, there is no other words for it.
November 11, 2015
This has been an amazing series to follow. The author cleverly takes actual events and characters from Scottish history but with her own unique twist. I feel the phrase " based on " would be more accurate but however you view it this is an interesting way of looking back to truly momentous events in history. Now add in romance and danger and you are left with a thrilling tale of adventure but with this book there's harrowing adversity to spice up the story.
The Highland Guard are a secret group who work to support their rightful King. They each possess unique qualities that turn these ordinary men into battle trained warriors. Eoin may be young but he's a thinker, a great strategist and determined to be at his Kings side. A chance meeting with the wilful Margaret sees him losing his heart forever. Margaret is considered wild, untamed and definitely no lady ! What those sycophants don't see however is her good heart and love of life itself and the passion Eoin ignites in her is not something she can deny.
Being part of the Highland Guard is something Eoin has sworn not to reveal to Margaret as her family are considered to be part of the enemy aiding England to rule Scotland . Eoin keeps his secret but when Maraget accidentally let's slip where he is there are truly dire consequences and one of them is the loss of Eoin. Fast forward six years and Margaret is about to remarry but there's a huge shock waiting at the church and it's one that brings the past crashing into the present !
What can I say? This book is written in two parts I guess. We see the couple fall in love but perhaps their youth and inexperience goes against them as Margaret is so unfairly treated and Eoin seems oblivious. Things are said and done that cause terrible misunderstandings and it's into a dark place that Eoin retreats. Fast forward to Margaret's wedding and fate steps in or should that be Eoin? Thrown back together due to actions taken by Margaret's family this couple have no choice but to work side by side but too many view Margaret as a betrayer including Eoin!
I liked that this wasn't instant love but that the attraction they shared was mutual and dare I suggest combustible ? However so many outside factors came between them leaving them both unfortunately at logger heads. They both were naive because hey they were young. So I loved seeing them reconnect and boy does Margaret push Eoin's buttons which frequently made this reader smile. There are no excuses for previous events because sometimes I think life can and does run away from people and marriage is always hard. This couple are not perfect, yes they are flawed and that's probably what works here. As the plot progresses we see growth particularly with Eoin as he finally comes to terms with his reasons for loving his Maggie. She has toned down her youthful exuberance to affect more ladylike manners but it's that wild fiery woman that he really needs. Yes this couple deserved their second chance. A sweet epilogue but a surprising lack of the Highland Guard. Yes we meet some but for this reader they didn't particularly enrich the story but perhaps that's because Margaret is their enemies daughter? Whatever the authors reasons it was an entertaining book bringing history to glorious life although I'd entreat other readers to read this series in order to see the much bigger picture
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
The Highland Guard are a secret group who work to support their rightful King. They each possess unique qualities that turn these ordinary men into battle trained warriors. Eoin may be young but he's a thinker, a great strategist and determined to be at his Kings side. A chance meeting with the wilful Margaret sees him losing his heart forever. Margaret is considered wild, untamed and definitely no lady ! What those sycophants don't see however is her good heart and love of life itself and the passion Eoin ignites in her is not something she can deny.
Being part of the Highland Guard is something Eoin has sworn not to reveal to Margaret as her family are considered to be part of the enemy aiding England to rule Scotland . Eoin keeps his secret but when Maraget accidentally let's slip where he is there are truly dire consequences and one of them is the loss of Eoin. Fast forward six years and Margaret is about to remarry but there's a huge shock waiting at the church and it's one that brings the past crashing into the present !
What can I say? This book is written in two parts I guess. We see the couple fall in love but perhaps their youth and inexperience goes against them as Margaret is so unfairly treated and Eoin seems oblivious. Things are said and done that cause terrible misunderstandings and it's into a dark place that Eoin retreats. Fast forward to Margaret's wedding and fate steps in or should that be Eoin? Thrown back together due to actions taken by Margaret's family this couple have no choice but to work side by side but too many view Margaret as a betrayer including Eoin!
I liked that this wasn't instant love but that the attraction they shared was mutual and dare I suggest combustible ? However so many outside factors came between them leaving them both unfortunately at logger heads. They both were naive because hey they were young. So I loved seeing them reconnect and boy does Margaret push Eoin's buttons which frequently made this reader smile. There are no excuses for previous events because sometimes I think life can and does run away from people and marriage is always hard. This couple are not perfect, yes they are flawed and that's probably what works here. As the plot progresses we see growth particularly with Eoin as he finally comes to terms with his reasons for loving his Maggie. She has toned down her youthful exuberance to affect more ladylike manners but it's that wild fiery woman that he really needs. Yes this couple deserved their second chance. A sweet epilogue but a surprising lack of the Highland Guard. Yes we meet some but for this reader they didn't particularly enrich the story but perhaps that's because Margaret is their enemies daughter? Whatever the authors reasons it was an entertaining book bringing history to glorious life although I'd entreat other readers to read this series in order to see the much bigger picture
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
Four and a half from me
April 3, 2024
April 1st, 2024 update:
Bumping it up to 5 stars because what’s the point of withholding praise when this book makes me so excited and giddy each time I read it? Really enjoyed the 2024 reread that might’ve cured me from a Dune movie hangover!
March 2024 reread:
Any time I want a romance book filled with intense emotions, I come back to this one. The first half is a wonderfully aching emotions-fest!
And yet again I’m on Maggie’s side for the most part, even more than Eoin’s. And bumping it up a star because this is one of the books I can always count on to fill my stomach with butterflies, especially in the first half!
24, August, 2021; Reread;
During the First read, I was a knot of raging emotions (as seen below). I was entirely team Maggie and got sooo sad and mad at everyone on her behalf. Now with the Second read (I more or less hated the book the first time, not cause it was bad but cause I hated Maggie’s treatment. BUT I can’t deny that even then the first half of the book made me feel lots of strong emotions and I wanted to feel them again!), I started reading after the beginning and somehow began to sympathize with Eoin more.
Also, I think the first half was more full of heavy, make-your-belly flip emotion. The second was far too tame (I didn’t read to the end the first read.) I wish there was more of the intense emotions between Maggie and Eoin during the second half! I also didn’t feel the motherly connection between Maggie and her son and felt he was just a plot device. So Unfortunate, because otherwise, with her passion, she could’ve been written as a fab mother figure.
But all in all, it was pleasant enough that let me no longer see Eoin was a villain and that he really loved Maggie, so I’ll bump up the stars to 3!
— First review, 2020
Phew this book. I’ve read a few of the books from this series. I think 4 and I didn’t like 2 of them. I found the other 2 3.5 stars worthy so I gave up the series. After running out of amazing Scottish historical romance books I came across this one -it was suggested to be similar to If You Dare (one of my favoritests!) - so I opened it.
The first half of the book was so swoon-worthy. I don’t know why but I never thought the author capable of writing such warm and wholesome romance (however temporary). Ugh I loved the heroine and hero’s falling-in-Love story!
After Eoin and Maggie got married though, I was instantly reminded of my problem with this author. She has a thing for selfish, narcissistic males. The beginning made me love Eoin and I wanted to keep loving him. But then the book started taking the same path as The Knight. Eoin had been a terrible husband and yet somehow he blamed Maggie for the failure of their marriage. Had it been me I’d have left him long ago and even hated him after. When he was so angry she “betrayed” him, hadn’t his plan been to kill her family? I was even angry with her for not warning her family directly. Even more that she was apologizing to him. Why didn’t she ask him what he’d been planning to do to her father? While the plot was still good I was really disappointed with the turn something that started so beautifully took.
The heroine was great, sometimes. She was bold yes, but had a soft, warm heart. She really went through a lot. I didn’t like that she had no loyalty to her family after a time. Even after how Eoin treated her she still had some misguided sense of guilt for something she didn’t even do.
I almost hate the author for making Maggie so weak! She shouldn’t have been the one trying to make things right with Eoin when she realized he was alive, what the heck?! He didn’t deserve her and I’m so mad at the author for turning something that began so well into something toxic.
Bumping it up to 5 stars because what’s the point of withholding praise when this book makes me so excited and giddy each time I read it? Really enjoyed the 2024 reread that might’ve cured me from a Dune movie hangover!
March 2024 reread:
Any time I want a romance book filled with intense emotions, I come back to this one. The first half is a wonderfully aching emotions-fest!
And yet again I’m on Maggie’s side for the most part, even more than Eoin’s. And bumping it up a star because this is one of the books I can always count on to fill my stomach with butterflies, especially in the first half!
24, August, 2021; Reread;
During the First read, I was a knot of raging emotions (as seen below). I was entirely team Maggie and got sooo sad and mad at everyone on her behalf. Now with the Second read (I more or less hated the book the first time, not cause it was bad but cause I hated Maggie’s treatment. BUT I can’t deny that even then the first half of the book made me feel lots of strong emotions and I wanted to feel them again!), I started reading after the beginning and somehow began to sympathize with Eoin more.
Also, I think the first half was more full of heavy, make-your-belly flip emotion. The second was far too tame (I didn’t read to the end the first read.) I wish there was more of the intense emotions between Maggie and Eoin during the second half! I also didn’t feel the motherly connection between Maggie and her son and felt he was just a plot device. So Unfortunate, because otherwise, with her passion, she could’ve been written as a fab mother figure.
But all in all, it was pleasant enough that let me no longer see Eoin was a villain and that he really loved Maggie, so I’ll bump up the stars to 3!
— First review, 2020
Phew this book. I’ve read a few of the books from this series. I think 4 and I didn’t like 2 of them. I found the other 2 3.5 stars worthy so I gave up the series. After running out of amazing Scottish historical romance books I came across this one -it was suggested to be similar to If You Dare (one of my favoritests!) - so I opened it.
The first half of the book was so swoon-worthy. I don’t know why but I never thought the author capable of writing such warm and wholesome romance (however temporary). Ugh I loved the heroine and hero’s falling-in-Love story!
After Eoin and Maggie got married though, I was instantly reminded of my problem with this author. She has a thing for selfish, narcissistic males. The beginning made me love Eoin and I wanted to keep loving him. But then the book started taking the same path as The Knight. Eoin had been a terrible husband and yet somehow he blamed Maggie for the failure of their marriage. Had it been me I’d have left him long ago and even hated him after. When he was so angry she “betrayed” him, hadn’t his plan been to kill her family? I was even angry with her for not warning her family directly. Even more that she was apologizing to him. Why didn’t she ask him what he’d been planning to do to her father? While the plot was still good I was really disappointed with the turn something that started so beautifully took.
The heroine was great, sometimes. She was bold yes, but had a soft, warm heart. She really went through a lot. I didn’t like that she had no loyalty to her family after a time. Even after how Eoin treated her she still had some misguided sense of guilt for something she didn’t even do.
I almost hate the author for making Maggie so weak! She shouldn’t have been the one trying to make things right with Eoin when she realized he was alive, what the heck?! He didn’t deserve her and I’m so mad at the author for turning something that began so well into something toxic.
February 16, 2019
Talk about dark horses again! TBH I only started to read this one as I don't want to miss any in this series ... but omg! ... talk about intense, angsty, passionate and a larger than life h!
I was able to seriously indulge in some tears while reading this one; readers heaven!
h was so strong and I never expected Eoin to be so smart, well read ... he was like a warrior geek ... while Margaret was smart, loyal and a total delight ... loved their plot moppet too ... I love seekrit baby books ... this book was a delicious surprise .... yay for me!
I was able to seriously indulge in some tears while reading this one; readers heaven!
h was so strong and I never expected Eoin to be so smart, well read ... he was like a warrior geek ... while Margaret was smart, loyal and a total delight ... loved their plot moppet too ... I love seekrit baby books ... this book was a delicious surprise .... yay for me!
February 10, 2018
This is a beautiful second chance love story filled with passion, tremendous angst and MC's who each believe the other had been guilty of betrayal. Eoin and Maggie are star crossed lovers; their dilemma is similar to that of Arthur and Anna but unlike the couple from The Ranger, they had to wait about 7 long years for their HEA. Eoin MacLean's family are loyal to Robert the Bruce while Maggie is a MacDowell and her father, the MacDowell laird, hates Robert. Maggie was such a fiery, sexy redhead with a bit of a tomboyish streak in the beginning. Her mother had died when she was a child and she has had no genteel female to mentor her in the conventional ways of being a lady. Therefore, Maggie dresses in plain woolen clothing and because she makes little effort to sew new gowns, her dresses are often too tight. She also loathes covering her hair with veils and circlets and the men at court look at her, misunderstand her and begin to lust after her. The H Eoin is one of these men but he is at first cautious because she's a MacDowell and his family aren't going to support his alliance with Maggie. I loved Eoin. He's a warrior but he's also a military strategist and a thinker. He has used the game of Chess as his foundation for building plans for military strategy. Despite their family's resistance to their union, Maggie and Eoin fall in love, have a secret wedding and are determined to stay together. But the hopes and dreams of the young lovers are soon tainted with many obstacles from hateful in laws to Eoin's best friend, who is also lusting after Maggie.
Soon after he brings her to the MacLean castle, Eoin departs to join the other selected warriors who are going to train under the leadership of Tor McLeod ( the sexy H from The Chief. Eoin doesn't tell her where he's going or what he's doing because he still doesn't trust that she won't reveal it to her father. Eoin doesn't know that Maggie is illiterate and unable to respond to his letters and this causes another big breakdown in communication. Maggie, in a fit of pride, makes regular journeys to a nearby convent where she gets the nuns to teach her to read and write. Her in laws and Eoin's traitorous jealous best friend soon think she is up to no good or meeting a lover. They treat her so badly that Maggie soon leaves and returns home to her MacDowell family. Eoin visits her there in secret, they make love and her friend Bridget thinks that the heroine has been raped by someone. Maggie makes some stupid mistakes by trusting Bridgette with the truth ( that it had been Eoin who had visited her in secret ) but the sly Bridgette ( who is in love with Maggie's brother and wants to impress him ) tells Maggie's brother about it. This gives the MacDowell's the idea that Robert the Bruce and his men are nearby. The MacDowell's plan an attack and many of Eoin's fellow warriors are ambushed and killed. This causes Eoin to blame Maggie, fake his death and abandon her. But it was so heart wrenching, especially the scene where Maggie sees bodies being cremated and collapses on the beach because she thinks that Eoin is among the dead. At times I lost patience with Maggie but she did change and become more mature when she realized that she was going to be a mother. Eoin was such a wonderful hero. He was actually faithful to his marriage vows even though he had sworn he hated Maggie. Their reunion was spectacular - at her wedding to an Englishman ! Maggie had never slept with her English fiancee and was only marrying him because she wanted someone who would be a better mentor for her son Eachann; her father was the only alternative if she remained a widow and she didn't want Eachann to follow in the old man's vicious footsteps. Eachann had also inherited his dad's love for the game of chess and showed signs of being a great future military strategist like the H. The MC's second chance journey towards love was slow but steady and both fought their feelings. This was a more intense romance than many of the previous ones in the The Highland Guard Series 9-Book Bundle: The Chief, The Hawk, The Ranger, The Viper, The Saint, The Recruit, The Hunter, The Raider, The Arrow . I felt sorry for Eoin when he yearned for love after seeing his highland guard brethren get married one by one. The epilogue was so sweet. It was good to see that Eoin and his son were now as close as a father and son should be and that the love he shared with Maggie was as strong as ever. I loved this book !
Soon after he brings her to the MacLean castle, Eoin departs to join the other selected warriors who are going to train under the leadership of Tor McLeod ( the sexy H from The Chief. Eoin doesn't tell her where he's going or what he's doing because he still doesn't trust that she won't reveal it to her father. Eoin doesn't know that Maggie is illiterate and unable to respond to his letters and this causes another big breakdown in communication. Maggie, in a fit of pride, makes regular journeys to a nearby convent where she gets the nuns to teach her to read and write. Her in laws and Eoin's traitorous jealous best friend soon think she is up to no good or meeting a lover. They treat her so badly that Maggie soon leaves and returns home to her MacDowell family. Eoin visits her there in secret, they make love and her friend Bridget thinks that the heroine has been raped by someone. Maggie makes some stupid mistakes by trusting Bridgette with the truth ( that it had been Eoin who had visited her in secret ) but the sly Bridgette ( who is in love with Maggie's brother and wants to impress him ) tells Maggie's brother about it. This gives the MacDowell's the idea that Robert the Bruce and his men are nearby. The MacDowell's plan an attack and many of Eoin's fellow warriors are ambushed and killed. This causes Eoin to blame Maggie, fake his death and abandon her. But it was so heart wrenching, especially the scene where Maggie sees bodies being cremated and collapses on the beach because she thinks that Eoin is among the dead. At times I lost patience with Maggie but she did change and become more mature when she realized that she was going to be a mother. Eoin was such a wonderful hero. He was actually faithful to his marriage vows even though he had sworn he hated Maggie. Their reunion was spectacular - at her wedding to an Englishman ! Maggie had never slept with her English fiancee and was only marrying him because she wanted someone who would be a better mentor for her son Eachann; her father was the only alternative if she remained a widow and she didn't want Eachann to follow in the old man's vicious footsteps. Eachann had also inherited his dad's love for the game of chess and showed signs of being a great future military strategist like the H. The MC's second chance journey towards love was slow but steady and both fought their feelings. This was a more intense romance than many of the previous ones in the The Highland Guard Series 9-Book Bundle: The Chief, The Hawk, The Ranger, The Viper, The Saint, The Recruit, The Hunter, The Raider, The Arrow . I felt sorry for Eoin when he yearned for love after seeing his highland guard brethren get married one by one. The epilogue was so sweet. It was good to see that Eoin and his son were now as close as a father and son should be and that the love he shared with Maggie was as strong as ever. I loved this book !
January 28, 2016
Ladies and gentlemen, I am so back in from the galaxy far far away! After the reading slump (strong the dark side is) that I have suffered for a month or two, I was brought back in the game by this book - enough to compel me to start the one thing in my bucket list I keep failing to achieve which is write book reviews. Last year I was thinking what to post (I actually wanted to write: summary, likes, dislikes, squee, hot, song) but I will try to make it simple (since I am a scatterbrain/random/wordy) to just writing, characters, song. I would ramble of course. Here goes nothing.
I was having doubts at first. I stopped reading this series after I found reviews of MacGregor's book. The 9th book was such a disappointment because I was extremely looking forward to know Arrow more (c'mon!!! He is the first one that caught my attention after Christina saw them training with her husband [See first book], oh wait or maybe it is Lachlan? Er, Hawk? Nah. I am positive it is Arrow. He was the most attractive/handsome among the guards!!! and the guards put god in godlike, active in attractive, hands in handsome! So of course I want to read his story) but seeing the reviews deflated my elation and anticipation. But then I saw the cover of Striker and good Lord that cover!
It is one of the best, I do not know what I like more: Boyd's cover or this, I need to further stare at them before I place my vote. I thought it will not be released until 2016 but lo and behold I believe the author had two releases made on the last quarter of 2015 (good for her). I was so glad I read Daniella's ratings (Thank you) because it did a good job alleviating my doubts and fears!
Let us go now to the writing (see what I told you about being scatterbrain and random and wordy). I have always known Monica McCarty can write sex wrapped in passion wrapped in history. Girl can write sex, ONE OF THE BEST I TELL YOU! Almost 3/4 of a book, her book, has sex and building tension while the rest is a good amount of strategically placed history and action scenes (She knows how to weave magic! KNOWS HOW TO WRITE HISTORY) but this one is different (I am not complaining about the number of sex in her books, unlike other authors her writing is not nauseating). It is like watching all seasons of Game of Thrones available then realizing that as the number of seasons increase the amount of game of throes decreases. This book has least amount of sex written (Again, the author can write SEX, no matter how few scenes here it does not matter, she knows how to slake your lust and you will be satisfied) but I still like it! I loved it! She seems to be better in her writing style.
When I read the first and second chapter I instantly liked it because it made me remember Heather Graham's (aka Shannon Drake)Bride of the Wind. It was also written in this format which is actually a good story telling outline if your storyline involves love+betrayal+whoa-there-a-child. The author also stopped repeating things which is darn shocking because I remember I tend to ignore it if she does that (Uh, I have to re-read everything because now I have doubts it was the same author, that or her change is really amazing, OR maybe I was out for too long?). I only realized it when I came into a paragraph once repeating what Eoin thinks that he already said a few chapters back. Monica McCarty improved and I am so darn proud of her.
For the characters, I ALWAYS pictured Eoin as OLD and brooding. I thought he put RUM in GRUMPY (I better stop this, lol, it is because Eoin said the guards perfected stone in stony and I find him darn adorable). I am intrigued when the guards gathered and talked about women and when MacSorley needle them (Eoin and Saint and, god bless his soul, Gordon [I was heartbroken to see that he was not written on the highland guard list anymore, he was a legend goddammit!]) about it and they will always be mum about it. I think him old because I thought when the guards first gathered that he was married for a LONG time and I assumed that being the strategist of the elite group equaled to being at war so many times ergo 'YOU ARE OLD' only to read his story and be shocked that it was only an effin fortnight and he was only 24. And is that body in the cover looks OLD? How could I even for a moment think he is fucking OLD?! I should have known that BROODING = SEXY dammit! I should have listened to the wife (I do not know whose wife she is but I will re-read all so of course I would be able to know who, but I have an inkling it is Ice's wife) who said that to look for elite guards: the enemy should just look for tall extremely handsome Highlanders. Good Lord. Even I wanted to lick, scratch, bite, mark all that bulging muscles and look at that JAW!!! I will probably have cuts when I touched it!. (Ok dear self, *deep breaths* focus)
(Oh shit it is hard to focus *more deep breaths*)
Focus. Focus.
Focus! I extremely liked the characters!
Have you watched Romeo and Juliet with Clare Danes and Leonardo Di Caprio? Yes the story is like the hatred of Capulet and Montague families of fair Verona. But no, that is not why I brought it up. It is the meeting.
It was like their meeting at that aquarium then multiply the tension about a million times more and that is how Eoin and Maggie met! It is a fucking instant connection and the author nailed that particular feeling associated with an undeniably deep strong irrational weird attraction (which convinced me that the author is approaching godhood). You can just imagine how when the two of them saw each other that the whole world stop and it is just the two of them. It makes you ask is it effin real? (There are weird things in this world that defy laws and are better not explained)Did they doubt if it is love? Is it just lust blindly seen as love? They were so young but as you read along you would realized that yes they were young but they know what LOVE is the moment they met each other. They realized that they need to keep it. They realized that they need to nourish it but that is the problem they keep on working at. IT. IS. THAT. GOOD.
The elements surrounding the betrayal is lighter than that of the Bride of the Wind which is A okay because the book turned out to be the best combination of betrayal, romance, passion, and history. However I expected more when things about the betrayal unravels and how he will find out who helped them light the signal. I expected more drama but then again, the light combination of the betrayal and drama works perfectly. I am happy they both tried and gave them a chance. I am happy they know they belong to the other. It is like when in college: ENTRANCE EXAM/ADMISSION IS EASY, STAYING IS THE REAL CHALLENGE (oh wow this can be applied to anything: relationships). For the betrayal I ALWAYS thought it is SETON who did it that is why I am so eager to read what he did to incur the wrath of Lachlan.
As for those wondering why the heck I have SONG in a review, I actually thought to include it because when I was reading SWITCHED before there was a song by LMNT that the hero dedicated to the heroine, whenever I hear it I remember the story. (Like specific smells, have you ever smell something that brings you certain memory? Like a favorite strawberry shampoo? or cinnamon? or chocolate?) I was thinking what song fits the story, I was thinking YOU WERE THERE but it does not feel right. I thought of LOVE ME LIKE YOU DO, but nope. ONLY YOU, scratch that. I think of those songs about second chance but the only thing popping is : JUST ONE YESTERDAY
I thought of angels
Choking on their halos
Get them drunk on rose water
See how dirty I can get them
Pulling out their fragile teeth
And clip their tiny wings
Anything you say can and will be held against you
So only say my name
It will be held against you
Anything you say can and will be held against you
So only say my name
If heaven's grief brings hell's rain
Then I'd trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday
(I know I'm bad news)
For just one yesterday
(I saved it all for you)
Oh, I want to teach you a lesson in the worst kind of way
Still I'd trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday
(I know I'm bad news)
For just one yesterday
(I saved it all for you)
For just one yesterday
August 30,2015 POST:
I was disappointed the last time I waited for Monica McCarty's book The Arrow because of the reviews. Hopefully this one would not be a disappointment because as long as I could remember I am always intrigued by the brooding Striker especially when the guards talk about their women. Hope this will be good.
I was having doubts at first. I stopped reading this series after I found reviews of MacGregor's book. The 9th book was such a disappointment because I was extremely looking forward to know Arrow more (c'mon!!! He is the first one that caught my attention after Christina saw them training with her husband [See first book], oh wait or maybe it is Lachlan? Er, Hawk? Nah. I am positive it is Arrow. He was the most attractive/handsome among the guards!!! and the guards put god in godlike, active in attractive, hands in handsome! So of course I want to read his story) but seeing the reviews deflated my elation and anticipation. But then I saw the cover of Striker and good Lord that cover!
It is one of the best, I do not know what I like more: Boyd's cover or this, I need to further stare at them before I place my vote. I thought it will not be released until 2016 but lo and behold I believe the author had two releases made on the last quarter of 2015 (good for her). I was so glad I read Daniella's ratings (Thank you) because it did a good job alleviating my doubts and fears!
Let us go now to the writing (see what I told you about being scatterbrain and random and wordy). I have always known Monica McCarty can write sex wrapped in passion wrapped in history. Girl can write sex, ONE OF THE BEST I TELL YOU! Almost 3/4 of a book, her book, has sex and building tension while the rest is a good amount of strategically placed history and action scenes (She knows how to weave magic! KNOWS HOW TO WRITE HISTORY) but this one is different (I am not complaining about the number of sex in her books, unlike other authors her writing is not nauseating). It is like watching all seasons of Game of Thrones available then realizing that as the number of seasons increase the amount of game of throes decreases. This book has least amount of sex written (Again, the author can write SEX, no matter how few scenes here it does not matter, she knows how to slake your lust and you will be satisfied) but I still like it! I loved it! She seems to be better in her writing style.
When I read the first and second chapter I instantly liked it because it made me remember Heather Graham's (aka Shannon Drake)Bride of the Wind. It was also written in this format which is actually a good story telling outline if your storyline involves love+betrayal+whoa-there-a-child. The author also stopped repeating things which is darn shocking because I remember I tend to ignore it if she does that (Uh, I have to re-read everything because now I have doubts it was the same author, that or her change is really amazing, OR maybe I was out for too long?). I only realized it when I came into a paragraph once repeating what Eoin thinks that he already said a few chapters back. Monica McCarty improved and I am so darn proud of her.
For the characters, I ALWAYS pictured Eoin as OLD and brooding. I thought he put RUM in GRUMPY (I better stop this, lol, it is because Eoin said the guards perfected stone in stony and I find him darn adorable). I am intrigued when the guards gathered and talked about women and when MacSorley needle them (Eoin and Saint and, god bless his soul, Gordon
(Oh shit it is hard to focus *more deep breaths*)
Focus. Focus.
Focus! I extremely liked the characters!
Have you watched Romeo and Juliet with Clare Danes and Leonardo Di Caprio? Yes the story is like the hatred of Capulet and Montague families of fair Verona. But no, that is not why I brought it up. It is the meeting.
It was like their meeting at that aquarium then multiply the tension about a million times more and that is how Eoin and Maggie met! It is a fucking instant connection and the author nailed that particular feeling associated with an undeniably deep strong irrational weird attraction (which convinced me that the author is approaching godhood). You can just imagine how when the two of them saw each other that the whole world stop and it is just the two of them. It makes you ask is it effin real? (There are weird things in this world that defy laws and are better not explained)Did they doubt if it is love? Is it just lust blindly seen as love? They were so young but as you read along you would realized that yes they were young but they know what LOVE is the moment they met each other. They realized that they need to keep it. They realized that they need to nourish it but that is the problem they keep on working at. IT. IS. THAT. GOOD.
The elements surrounding the betrayal is lighter than that of the Bride of the Wind which is A okay because the book turned out to be the best combination of betrayal, romance, passion, and history. However I expected more when things about the betrayal unravels and how he will find out who helped them light the signal. I expected more drama but then again, the light combination of the betrayal and drama works perfectly. I am happy they both tried and gave them a chance. I am happy they know they belong to the other. It is like when in college: ENTRANCE EXAM/ADMISSION IS EASY, STAYING IS THE REAL CHALLENGE (oh wow this can be applied to anything: relationships). For the betrayal I ALWAYS thought it is SETON who did it that is why I am so eager to read what he did to incur the wrath of Lachlan.
As for those wondering why the heck I have SONG in a review, I actually thought to include it because when I was reading SWITCHED before there was a song by LMNT that the hero dedicated to the heroine, whenever I hear it I remember the story. (Like specific smells, have you ever smell something that brings you certain memory? Like a favorite strawberry shampoo? or cinnamon? or chocolate?) I was thinking what song fits the story, I was thinking YOU WERE THERE but it does not feel right. I thought of LOVE ME LIKE YOU DO, but nope. ONLY YOU, scratch that. I think of those songs about second chance but the only thing popping is : JUST ONE YESTERDAY
I thought of angels
Choking on their halos
Get them drunk on rose water
See how dirty I can get them
Pulling out their fragile teeth
And clip their tiny wings
Anything you say can and will be held against you
So only say my name
It will be held against you
Anything you say can and will be held against you
So only say my name
If heaven's grief brings hell's rain
Then I'd trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday
(I know I'm bad news)
For just one yesterday
(I saved it all for you)
Oh, I want to teach you a lesson in the worst kind of way
Still I'd trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday
(I know I'm bad news)
For just one yesterday
(I saved it all for you)
For just one yesterday
August 30,2015 POST:
I was disappointed the last time I waited for Monica McCarty's book The Arrow because of the reviews. Hopefully this one would not be a disappointment because as long as I could remember I am always intrigued by the brooding Striker especially when the guards talk about their women. Hope this will be good.
December 1, 2015
Another great installment by McCarty. I should say, that I thought this would be the end of the series- but after finishing The Striker I discovered to my utter delight, that there will be at least two more novels to come!
I am still a bit shocked at how much I like this series. I mean, I am miss-why-read-those-highlander-novels-cause-they-are-so-far-off-reality-they-might-as-well-be-called-fantasy-without-worldbuilding.
Then I stumbled over the Highland Guard Series and ate humble pie.
So I thought, I was so wrong, I've read quite a few books in this genre, but somehow, so far at least, they all a tad disappointing. First they all seem to have no clue about the Scottish climate. NO ONE runs around the highlands in thin frocks people! It's mission impossible.. and why does the sun always shine in those novels? Which alternative universe are they talking about.... But I am getting off track.
My point is that after reading The Striker two things became really clear to me:
McCarthy does describe the Scotland I know- and love. And she does a really amazing job at it. I feel like I've revisited my former home, when I come up for air in between reading. Her descriptions are accurate, realistic and capture the beauty of Scotland amazingly. Which speaks for her amazing skill as a writer but I keep wondering how much time McCarthy has spent in the Highlands. Her descriptions of places ( that I know really well) are just amazing. I simply don't have another word. They are evocative and exact. I am sadly not good with words so I fail at describing the incredible beauty that McCarthy creates with hers.
The historical setting is brilliant. I love the authors notes at the end of each book. And while I am quite knowledgeable in this particular part of history, I am always amazed by McCarthy's research. Even more by how she takes historical facts and creates characters that seem real. Again a tribute to McCarthy's great skill at her craft. This novel is cleverly interwoven in the historical setting, pivoting around the battle of Loch Ryan.
The story line goes over several years. I actually love how there was a back and forth. Slowly we could reconstruct the events- some of which we already knew from previous books in the series, but revisiting them from a different POV and with additional details.
This is definitely a second chances romance. It all starts with total insta-lust. And ooooh all the sizzles, I tell you the chemistry between Eoin and Margaret is palatable- and that keeps up until the end of the book. Which leads me to the smut. Just as always McCarty does not dissapoint when it comes to the smexy stuff. It's hot hot hot.
And then the two MCs behave totally annoyingly stubborn and immature and all goes to hell. My heart was breaking for most of the book. This is not a sweet little insta to HEA ending novel. No, this is heart wrenching, sad and utterly infuriating. In all the best ways. In one word: It's intense. Very intense. I felt every turn of their journey. I wanted to console them and shake them - actually smack them most of the time. And I totally enjoyed the ride. Just be warned it's not your easy going and sweet romance story line
I honestly did question their love. It was all a bit too insta for my taste. I kept thinking this is all just lust- they completely mistaking sexual attraction with love. And to McCarty's credit they do question it themselves. Though I do believe they end up caring for each other now after finishing it, I found myself doubting them until the epilogue really.
I think Eoin and Margaret are two of the most flawed characters ever written in a Highland romance, ever! And I totally adore that. They behave like utter idiots at times, but I understood where they were coming from. I like both of them and believed their mistakes were at times to do with immaturity. I also believed when they reformed some of their faults. Both, Margaret and Eoin feel like real people, probably exactly because they are flawed. They are also complex and interesting - and I like them both, I could identify with both of them.
Just like the previous novels, this one is character driven as well. And in my opinion it's intensity (and stupidity) is bearable because of the character growth the two MCs go through. And just like always I really enjoyed revisiting the other members of the crew. They all feel so real. It's amazing to see the characters from a different POV in each book. I love how one sees a different side of them, but how familiar they have all become.
So another AMAZING installment to my favorite Highlander series. And as I said the good news there will be at least two more books. In fact I already read The Rock- and well, let me just say it is good...(I shall post my review next week) and I am waiting to get my hands on The Ghost, desperately, while hoping that there will be MORE.
Until then: Get your hands on The Striker, find a quiet corner and go to the Highlands for a few hours. You won't regret it. I promise.
I am still a bit shocked at how much I like this series. I mean, I am miss-why-read-those-highlander-novels-cause-they-are-so-far-off-reality-they-might-as-well-be-called-fantasy-without-worldbuilding.
Then I stumbled over the Highland Guard Series and ate humble pie.
So I thought, I was so wrong, I've read quite a few books in this genre, but somehow, so far at least, they all a tad disappointing. First they all seem to have no clue about the Scottish climate. NO ONE runs around the highlands in thin frocks people! It's mission impossible.. and why does the sun always shine in those novels? Which alternative universe are they talking about.... But I am getting off track.
My point is that after reading The Striker two things became really clear to me:
McCarthy does describe the Scotland I know- and love. And she does a really amazing job at it. I feel like I've revisited my former home, when I come up for air in between reading. Her descriptions are accurate, realistic and capture the beauty of Scotland amazingly. Which speaks for her amazing skill as a writer but I keep wondering how much time McCarthy has spent in the Highlands. Her descriptions of places ( that I know really well) are just amazing. I simply don't have another word. They are evocative and exact. I am sadly not good with words so I fail at describing the incredible beauty that McCarthy creates with hers.
The historical setting is brilliant. I love the authors notes at the end of each book. And while I am quite knowledgeable in this particular part of history, I am always amazed by McCarthy's research. Even more by how she takes historical facts and creates characters that seem real. Again a tribute to McCarthy's great skill at her craft. This novel is cleverly interwoven in the historical setting, pivoting around the battle of Loch Ryan.
The story line goes over several years. I actually love how there was a back and forth. Slowly we could reconstruct the events- some of which we already knew from previous books in the series, but revisiting them from a different POV and with additional details.
This is definitely a second chances romance. It all starts with total insta-lust. And ooooh all the sizzles, I tell you the chemistry between Eoin and Margaret is palatable- and that keeps up until the end of the book. Which leads me to the smut. Just as always McCarty does not dissapoint when it comes to the smexy stuff. It's hot hot hot.
And then the two MCs behave totally annoyingly stubborn and immature and all goes to hell. My heart was breaking for most of the book. This is not a sweet little insta to HEA ending novel. No, this is heart wrenching, sad and utterly infuriating. In all the best ways. In one word: It's intense. Very intense. I felt every turn of their journey. I wanted to console them and shake them - actually smack them most of the time. And I totally enjoyed the ride. Just be warned it's not your easy going and sweet romance story line
I honestly did question their love. It was all a bit too insta for my taste. I kept thinking this is all just lust- they completely mistaking sexual attraction with love. And to McCarty's credit they do question it themselves. Though I do believe they end up caring for each other now after finishing it, I found myself doubting them until the epilogue really.
I think Eoin and Margaret are two of the most flawed characters ever written in a Highland romance, ever! And I totally adore that. They behave like utter idiots at times, but I understood where they were coming from. I like both of them and believed their mistakes were at times to do with immaturity. I also believed when they reformed some of their faults. Both, Margaret and Eoin feel like real people, probably exactly because they are flawed. They are also complex and interesting - and I like them both, I could identify with both of them.
Just like the previous novels, this one is character driven as well. And in my opinion it's intensity (and stupidity) is bearable because of the character growth the two MCs go through. And just like always I really enjoyed revisiting the other members of the crew. They all feel so real. It's amazing to see the characters from a different POV in each book. I love how one sees a different side of them, but how familiar they have all become.
So another AMAZING installment to my favorite Highlander series. And as I said the good news there will be at least two more books. In fact I already read The Rock- and well, let me just say it is good...(I shall post my review next week) and I am waiting to get my hands on The Ghost, desperately, while hoping that there will be MORE.
Until then: Get your hands on The Striker, find a quiet corner and go to the Highlands for a few hours. You won't regret it. I promise.
November 19, 2015
I have to admit, I was really surprised at the amazing depth of information, history of the time period, and background in which this book was written. This author has an amazing ability to pull you right into the story and drag you along with the events of the day. You feel like you are right in the battlefield with the warriors and right in-between the main characters as they try and figure out their lives..
Connected by their steamy lust for one another, Eion and Maggie marry and immediately start to have issues - family issues that are huge. You fight for them, just like they try and fight for each other. Your heart breaks along with theirs as they struggle to survive the tough lifestyle of the day and the betrayals that are destined to tear them apart. You pray that they are strong enough to overcome, for deep down you know they truly are meant to be together.
The author has amazing skill at crafting this story that has a pull like no other. The stories of the battlefield and the personal lives of the characters is so rich and deep, you can be there through the excellent literary craftsmanship Monica McCarty offers us. This book really is impressive in so many arenas. The smoking hot descriptions of the characters; the steamy hot love affair, and the ability to see faults and forgive. I fell in love with these 2 and with the glimpses of other guys in the Highland Guard, you know the past stories have to be hot too!
Connected by their steamy lust for one another, Eion and Maggie marry and immediately start to have issues - family issues that are huge. You fight for them, just like they try and fight for each other. Your heart breaks along with theirs as they struggle to survive the tough lifestyle of the day and the betrayals that are destined to tear them apart. You pray that they are strong enough to overcome, for deep down you know they truly are meant to be together.
The author has amazing skill at crafting this story that has a pull like no other. The stories of the battlefield and the personal lives of the characters is so rich and deep, you can be there through the excellent literary craftsmanship Monica McCarty offers us. This book really is impressive in so many arenas. The smoking hot descriptions of the characters; the steamy hot love affair, and the ability to see faults and forgive. I fell in love with these 2 and with the glimpses of other guys in the Highland Guard, you know the past stories have to be hot too!
December 20, 2015
A total emotional roller coaster..I've kept awake till 3 am just to finish it, and I've laughed and hoped and despaired with Eoin and Margaret.
Monica McCarty is one of the few authors who captures medieval Scotland in all its brutality and grandeur- in fact, her fact-weaving-with-fiction Highland Guards are some of my best Historical Romance reads. It's a testament to her skill that 10 books into the series, she writes on themes of thwarted chances and redemption, and comes away absolutely successful.
The Striker, Eoin's story, takes place over several years. We weave back and forth in time, revisiting and remembering events across the past few books. Ms. McCarty taps into the rich vein of history - of centuries-old intertwined clan loyalties and fly-by-night betrayals.
Which brings us to the prologue..
Robert Bruce is very near to success on his decade long quest to win Scotland- all that remains is gathering the support of the last few opposing clans. Eoin plans a guerrilla attack to capture Dugald MacDowell. What better occasion to catch the enemy unawares than the wedding of Dugald's daughter - and Eoin's wife, who he hasn't seen in six long years. From the very start, we glimpse the conflicting emotions and turmoil that Eoin and Margaret harbour secretly. Margaret is marrying a man she cares for, but does not love- thinking it is the best course of action. She reminisces about the past, about her husband who was her great love and also her greatest loss. She believes he and his men died because of her actions, and is overwhelmed by guilt. On the other side, Eoin is gripped with pain and bitterness at his wife's treachery. He longs to take revenge by upstaging her wedding, and destroying her father in bargain. When long-estranged husband and wife finally face each other, the tension turns explosive. Each is grappling with a sense of terrible pain and anger at the other and as a reader, I was immersed in their story and wanted to know how things took such a terrible turn.
The following chapters tell us how Eoin and his young and carefree 'Maggie' fell in love. I absolutely hate it when second chance romances make it seem like it was just fireworks and lust at the first go, while the couple work it out at a 'mature relationship' the next time round. For Eoin and Maggie, it was definitely a case of sudden, unexplained attraction at first sight. Margaret is the unconventional 'wild child' of the MacDowells - raised as one among her brothers, resulting in a terrible reputation in society. Eoin is the highly intelligent, intense and bookish cousin to Bruce. Both are shocked and a little disconcerted at the magnetic pull they have for each other. Soon, outside forces and politics force them together again and again. Attraction blossoms into mutual respect and empathy; and they find themselves selflessly protecting each other, and irrevocably falling in love. A hurried (and very passionate) exchange of vows follows soon after, and Margaret is packed off to the unfamiliar and sometimes hostile bosom of Eoin's family.
Their young marriage faces challenges from the very get-go - the families are allied to opposite ends of the conflict, and with Eoin's ambition of winning a place among the highly exclusive and secretive Highland Guard - the cracks slowly creep in. It's a testament to the author's skill that I could identify and empathize so strongly with both Margaret and Eoin as they commit young, foolish mistakes, while seeing all the time what it wrought on their relationship. I could see how deeply they loved each other, forced into an untenable position but trying to make amends again and again, while their marriage deteriorated. As the distrust and hurt pile up , Margaret comes to the (very un-romance novel-y) conclusion that love may always not be enough, and returns home. What follows is a gut wrenching sequence of events that lead to a terrible massacre and a lifetime of pain and regret.
The second half takes us back to the scene of Margaret's wedding and her husband's sudden reappearance. They must now join forces and ensure their son Eachann does not become collateral in this game of war and power. Their resulting journey is one of facing a past best left abandoned, of forgiving oneself and of finding a forever-love once more. This second time around packed more of an emotional punch and provided a more richer undertone to their story.
Monica McCarty is one of the few authors who captures medieval Scotland in all its brutality and grandeur- in fact, her fact-weaving-with-fiction Highland Guards are some of my best Historical Romance reads. It's a testament to her skill that 10 books into the series, she writes on themes of thwarted chances and redemption, and comes away absolutely successful.
The Striker, Eoin's story, takes place over several years. We weave back and forth in time, revisiting and remembering events across the past few books. Ms. McCarty taps into the rich vein of history - of centuries-old intertwined clan loyalties and fly-by-night betrayals.
Which brings us to the prologue..
Robert Bruce is very near to success on his decade long quest to win Scotland- all that remains is gathering the support of the last few opposing clans. Eoin plans a guerrilla attack to capture Dugald MacDowell. What better occasion to catch the enemy unawares than the wedding of Dugald's daughter - and Eoin's wife, who he hasn't seen in six long years. From the very start, we glimpse the conflicting emotions and turmoil that Eoin and Margaret harbour secretly. Margaret is marrying a man she cares for, but does not love- thinking it is the best course of action. She reminisces about the past, about her husband who was her great love and also her greatest loss. She believes he and his men died because of her actions, and is overwhelmed by guilt. On the other side, Eoin is gripped with pain and bitterness at his wife's treachery. He longs to take revenge by upstaging her wedding, and destroying her father in bargain. When long-estranged husband and wife finally face each other, the tension turns explosive. Each is grappling with a sense of terrible pain and anger at the other and as a reader, I was immersed in their story and wanted to know how things took such a terrible turn.
The following chapters tell us how Eoin and his young and carefree 'Maggie' fell in love. I absolutely hate it when second chance romances make it seem like it was just fireworks and lust at the first go, while the couple work it out at a 'mature relationship' the next time round. For Eoin and Maggie, it was definitely a case of sudden, unexplained attraction at first sight. Margaret is the unconventional 'wild child' of the MacDowells - raised as one among her brothers, resulting in a terrible reputation in society. Eoin is the highly intelligent, intense and bookish cousin to Bruce. Both are shocked and a little disconcerted at the magnetic pull they have for each other. Soon, outside forces and politics force them together again and again. Attraction blossoms into mutual respect and empathy; and they find themselves selflessly protecting each other, and irrevocably falling in love. A hurried (and very passionate) exchange of vows follows soon after, and Margaret is packed off to the unfamiliar and sometimes hostile bosom of Eoin's family.
Their young marriage faces challenges from the very get-go - the families are allied to opposite ends of the conflict, and with Eoin's ambition of winning a place among the highly exclusive and secretive Highland Guard - the cracks slowly creep in. It's a testament to the author's skill that I could identify and empathize so strongly with both Margaret and Eoin as they commit young, foolish mistakes, while seeing all the time what it wrought on their relationship. I could see how deeply they loved each other, forced into an untenable position but trying to make amends again and again, while their marriage deteriorated. As the distrust and hurt pile up , Margaret comes to the (very un-romance novel-y) conclusion that love may always not be enough, and returns home. What follows is a gut wrenching sequence of events that lead to a terrible massacre and a lifetime of pain and regret.
The second half takes us back to the scene of Margaret's wedding and her husband's sudden reappearance. They must now join forces and ensure their son Eachann does not become collateral in this game of war and power. Their resulting journey is one of facing a past best left abandoned, of forgiving oneself and of finding a forever-love once more. This second time around packed more of an emotional punch and provided a more richer undertone to their story.
December 18, 2015
The Striker ( Highland Guard, #10) by Monica McCarty is a 2015 publication
This series is a notch above many historical or Highlander romances, due to the obvious research and commitment to authenticity the author applies to these stories. This story has all the elements a good love story should and transports the reader into another realm, another time and place, where honor and loyalty rules, but love conquers all.
This is an outstanding novel and I highly recommend it to historical romance lovers, especially those who like those delicious, hearty, and fierce Highlanders!
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews
To read this review in full click this link: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Re...
This series is a notch above many historical or Highlander romances, due to the obvious research and commitment to authenticity the author applies to these stories. This story has all the elements a good love story should and transports the reader into another realm, another time and place, where honor and loyalty rules, but love conquers all.
This is an outstanding novel and I highly recommend it to historical romance lovers, especially those who like those delicious, hearty, and fierce Highlanders!
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews
To read this review in full click this link: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/V5/Re...
June 26, 2020
I hated this book. It started really well and the love between hero and heroine was good. But then after the faux betrayal I started hating the hero. No after their wedding actually because he was just a trashy human to his very patient wife. I hate how this author always makes trashy heroes and gives them nice women they don’t deserve. Margaret had nothing to apologize for and Eoin was so entitled and as annoying as his predecessors in this series.
December 27, 2015
Rating Clarification: 4.5 stars
It was a great read and I couldn't put it down. There were instances where I thought the drama was unnecessary and when I thought Margaret was annoying but I could look past it. Overall, it was an enjoyable read.
It was a great read and I couldn't put it down. There were instances where I thought the drama was unnecessary and when I thought Margaret was annoying but I could look past it. Overall, it was an enjoyable read.
December 6, 2015
I was so frustrated while reading this one and it was all due to Eoin. I found him to be a judgmental asshole! Time and time again he jumped to conclusions and didn't listen to his instincts, instead let others influence him and make him believe the worst about Maggie. I didn't fault her for her choices, how could someone live like that. Yet Maggie always seemed to give Eoin a second chance, which drove me nuts, I wanted her to just be done with him, as she deserved better. But with that said I was ok with the HEA.
Want to read
March 27, 2015That cover! :o Quite refreshing. ;) Much more crisp with more details and depth. Love it!
November 5, 2015
3.5 Stars.
I liked it but it wasn't my favorite. Some things put me off a bit. Great Epilogue though.
I liked it but it wasn't my favorite. Some things put me off a bit. Great Epilogue though.
February 9, 2017
Como dicen los franceses "mangeable" , poco más.
December 2, 2018
The writing flows easily; the characters are developed well, and the historical Scottish setting is researched nicely. I felt like it transported me and immersed back to Scotland in 1305.
January 22, 2024
4.5 🌟's
this one was so ANGSTYYY omg i loved it .. a second chance rom done RIGHT
this one was so ANGSTYYY omg i loved it .. a second chance rom done RIGHT
November 6, 2015
As the author of my favorite Highlander romance of all time, The Chief, which just so happens to be Book 1 of this series, a new release by Monica McCarty always pulls me in like the Eye of Sauron. No, I don’t know how she does it. I’m just glad she does. Here we are with Book 10, The Striker, and I’m still just as captivated by her writing style and this series, as ever.
***spoiler alert****
Now don’t get me wrong. I have a bone or two to pick with our handsome hero, Eoin “The Striker” MacLean. In fact, I felt like striking him upside the head a time or twenty. He seemed to have a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other when it came to his emotions regarding Maggie. He repeatedly was too quick to let the voices of others, who spoke badly of her, to influence his own thoughts and actions. Especially since he knew most people judged her based on misconceptions and vicious, false rumors. From his snobby mother, jealous sister, vengeful/lusty best friend, Finn, and clans people who hated her simply for breathing, because she was from an enemy clan, her hasty, impulsive marriage to Eoin soon put her in what felt like an episode of Mean Girls in the Highlands. Throw in the fact, he quickly fell in love with her because she was so vibrant, full of life, didn’t care what others thought, then immediately once they married wanted her to conform to the exact opposite. Well, by then, I wanted to strangle him, as well.
Wait, I’m not done. After taking her to his castle to live with his very unwelcoming family, he leaves her there for five months so he can pursue his life dream of being in the Highland Guard. Only to come home for 24 hours, then leave again refusing to tell her where he is going. He had to keep his position in the Guard a secret from everyone, by the way.
Well, a spirited highland lass can only take so much “shite”. After Finn shows his true nature, she fights back by giving him a swift kick in the family jewels and packs up her “shite” (sorry can’t seem to help myself) and goes home to daddy. After all, who is going to believe her over Finn? There is eventually an encounter with Eoin there and “shite” really hits the fan (last time, I swear). Maggie gets blamed by him for something that happens, and the aftermath results in Maggie thinking Eoin is dead. He walks away hating her for six long years. Yes, that is not a typo, my fellow romance book-loving friends, six freaking years! He rushes to judgment, listens to the devil on his shoulder, and doesn’t bother to make sure his facts are straight. Hence, another reason I wanted to strike The Striker anywhere that would inflict great bodily harm.
As for Maggie, there simply wasn’t anything not to like about her. In this NetGalley reviewer’s opinion, she was everything a highland lass should be…beautiful, spirited, natural gift with horses, rolled with the punches, came from a doting clan, and had eight brothers. Her father loved her but could be harsh/overly stern. She was like a bird in a cage once Eoin moved her to his castle.
Maggie soon learns she is pregnant after Eoin washes his heart and hands of her, and she is about to remarry in the opening scene of Chapter 1. By now, their son, Eachann is five years old. Eoin, not aware Eachann exists, has merely come to capture Maggie’s father, not to reunite with his wife….and so the story continues. This is where my lips are sealed, and you will have to read the rest of the story to see this couple finally get their HEA.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get to it. I think you will likely be verra, verra glad you did.
Title: The Striker, Series: Highland Guard (Book 10), Author: Monica McCarty, Pages: 416, stand-alone, HEA, no cheating, steamy scenes, couple is from enemy clans.
(This review is based on NetGalley ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
***spoiler alert****
Now don’t get me wrong. I have a bone or two to pick with our handsome hero, Eoin “The Striker” MacLean. In fact, I felt like striking him upside the head a time or twenty. He seemed to have a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other when it came to his emotions regarding Maggie. He repeatedly was too quick to let the voices of others, who spoke badly of her, to influence his own thoughts and actions. Especially since he knew most people judged her based on misconceptions and vicious, false rumors. From his snobby mother, jealous sister, vengeful/lusty best friend, Finn, and clans people who hated her simply for breathing, because she was from an enemy clan, her hasty, impulsive marriage to Eoin soon put her in what felt like an episode of Mean Girls in the Highlands. Throw in the fact, he quickly fell in love with her because she was so vibrant, full of life, didn’t care what others thought, then immediately once they married wanted her to conform to the exact opposite. Well, by then, I wanted to strangle him, as well.
Wait, I’m not done. After taking her to his castle to live with his very unwelcoming family, he leaves her there for five months so he can pursue his life dream of being in the Highland Guard. Only to come home for 24 hours, then leave again refusing to tell her where he is going. He had to keep his position in the Guard a secret from everyone, by the way.
Well, a spirited highland lass can only take so much “shite”. After Finn shows his true nature, she fights back by giving him a swift kick in the family jewels and packs up her “shite” (sorry can’t seem to help myself) and goes home to daddy. After all, who is going to believe her over Finn? There is eventually an encounter with Eoin there and “shite” really hits the fan (last time, I swear). Maggie gets blamed by him for something that happens, and the aftermath results in Maggie thinking Eoin is dead. He walks away hating her for six long years. Yes, that is not a typo, my fellow romance book-loving friends, six freaking years! He rushes to judgment, listens to the devil on his shoulder, and doesn’t bother to make sure his facts are straight. Hence, another reason I wanted to strike The Striker anywhere that would inflict great bodily harm.
As for Maggie, there simply wasn’t anything not to like about her. In this NetGalley reviewer’s opinion, she was everything a highland lass should be…beautiful, spirited, natural gift with horses, rolled with the punches, came from a doting clan, and had eight brothers. Her father loved her but could be harsh/overly stern. She was like a bird in a cage once Eoin moved her to his castle.
Maggie soon learns she is pregnant after Eoin washes his heart and hands of her, and she is about to remarry in the opening scene of Chapter 1. By now, their son, Eachann is five years old. Eoin, not aware Eachann exists, has merely come to capture Maggie’s father, not to reunite with his wife….and so the story continues. This is where my lips are sealed, and you will have to read the rest of the story to see this couple finally get their HEA.
Well, what are you waiting for? Get to it. I think you will likely be verra, verra glad you did.
Title: The Striker, Series: Highland Guard (Book 10), Author: Monica McCarty, Pages: 416, stand-alone, HEA, no cheating, steamy scenes, couple is from enemy clans.
(This review is based on NetGalley ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2015
This is the story of redemption and second chance.
When I first read about Eoin MacLean in The Chief, the first in the "Highland Guard" series, I didn't thought his marriage to MacDowell's daughter was a love match. Or that later on, their story would break my heart with such great obstacle in their path.
I wouldn't recommend this to be read as a standalone as reader wouldn't get the brethren and dynamic among the whole Highland Guard members, and the same occurrences in some of the books that tied each Highland Guard story together.
Hero and heroine on this book was meant for others, their marriages were supposed to forge an alliance in opposite camps. Instead, Eoin and Maggie met, fell in lust then love, handfasting and pledged their vows to one another.
What started as fairy tale turned into hellish for Maggie when she had to go home with Eoin and his family. Treated as an outsider, daughter of the enemy and found wanting scraped at her confidence; secrecy and the close-to-home threat finally drove her away.
I was pretty miffed with Eoin throughout reading this. His treatment of his young bride was thoughtless. Granted, he was put in difficult positions. But so was his wife. That he was quick to suspect her was another issue that tried my patience.
But I applauded Monica McCarty on how cleverly she span their tumultuous romance into the tragedy at Loch Ryan. But oh the heartbreak. And how these two could go back or started anew after such catastrophe was NOT easy.
Unlike in other book, the other Highland Guards didn't take much part on Eoin's story - perhaps due to his connection to the enemy's daughter made Eoin kept to himself.
I think this is the first book where I feel quite a lot resentment to the people in Bruce's camp and his supporters. Their cautiousness shown as judgey most of the time. That included the ever ambitious Eoin MacLean.
Despite all that, I have to say this is one the best romance in the series so far. And after the glimpse of Thomas MacGowan in this book I can't wait for the release of The Rock next month, and Alex Seton... err, I mean The Ghost next year.
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review.
When I first read about Eoin MacLean in The Chief, the first in the "Highland Guard" series, I didn't thought his marriage to MacDowell's daughter was a love match. Or that later on, their story would break my heart with such great obstacle in their path.
I wouldn't recommend this to be read as a standalone as reader wouldn't get the brethren and dynamic among the whole Highland Guard members, and the same occurrences in some of the books that tied each Highland Guard story together.
Hero and heroine on this book was meant for others, their marriages were supposed to forge an alliance in opposite camps. Instead, Eoin and Maggie met, fell in lust then love, handfasting and pledged their vows to one another.
What started as fairy tale turned into hellish for Maggie when she had to go home with Eoin and his family. Treated as an outsider, daughter of the enemy and found wanting scraped at her confidence; secrecy and the close-to-home threat finally drove her away.
I was pretty miffed with Eoin throughout reading this. His treatment of his young bride was thoughtless. Granted, he was put in difficult positions. But so was his wife. That he was quick to suspect her was another issue that tried my patience.
But I applauded Monica McCarty on how cleverly she span their tumultuous romance into the tragedy at Loch Ryan. But oh the heartbreak. And how these two could go back or started anew after such catastrophe was NOT easy.
Unlike in other book, the other Highland Guards didn't take much part on Eoin's story - perhaps due to his connection to the enemy's daughter made Eoin kept to himself.
I think this is the first book where I feel quite a lot resentment to the people in Bruce's camp and his supporters. Their cautiousness shown as judgey most of the time. That included the ever ambitious Eoin MacLean.
Despite all that, I have to say this is one the best romance in the series so far. And after the glimpse of Thomas MacGowan in this book I can't wait for the release of The Rock next month, and Alex Seton... err, I mean The Ghost next year.
ARC was kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the exchange of an honest review.
November 5, 2015
The Striker is one of the most amazing and heartwrenching novels in this series. I really loved this one !
This book is number ten in the series and most definitely my favorite story yet. The story opened in "present time" as Eoin was planning a surprise attack to capture the last greatest opposition to the Bruce crown. There was one complication though being that the Dugald MacDowell happens to be the father of Eoin's wife. This is where the story jumped back in time and showed how Eoin and Margaret fell in love, rushed into a marriage, and then made mistakes that tore them apart. This was a richly crafted and passionate story of young lovers torn between love, family, and loyalty. Their tumultuous love affair was tested by jealousy, suspicions, lies and betrayals. It was believed that Margaret had betrayed Eoin six years ago but then the story unfolded to reveal the truth. Still, certain things had me questioning if there could ever be a happy ending to this story .... or even if I wanted one. Seriously.
As usual, Monica McCarty created a vivid romance that swept me into the story and kept me entertained from start to finish. She made me believe that the characters could be swept away by passion and maybe still regret their choice to be together. Eoin and Margaret suffered aplenty for their love, but I won't ruin anything by saying who made the worst mistakes. I will say this instead .... good intentions weren't always enough.
It couldn't be anything less than Five Stars for THE STRIKER ! I adored this book and wish I could give it more. Monica McCarty did a wonderful job on it and I recommend it to everyone. Can't wait to read The Rock !
November 24, 2015
...deceit and betrayal!
Eoin MacLean's decision to become one of Robert the Bruce's strike force team, The Highland Guards, plays havoc with his personal life. But then Eoin wasn't expecting to be captivated by a wild, red headed, bewitching young woman, Margaret MacDowell, whose father's enmity is legend.
Happiness is replaced by anger. Eoin's promise to not reveal the secret of the Highland Guards is ripe ground for mistrust between himself and Margaret to erode to the point of no return. Margaret is all that is admirable in the way she seeks to support and understand him, but perceived rejection and frequent snubs worms away at her self confidence.
Convinced he has been betrayed by Margaret, Eoin turns his back on their marriage and takes up the mantle of his reported death. Some years later, when he learns that Margaret is about to remarry, Eoin has second thoughts, particularly as his Lazarus reappearance behind the English lines, will cause consternation for Bruce's enemies.
What his return causes for Margaret, and the surprises Eoin will face, are very different from the outcome he anticipated, leaving them both shaken and reeling in shock.
Filled with surprises, treachery, misunderstandings and heart throb moments, this addition to the Highland Guards series is just as addictive as it's running mates. Once again the midnight candle burned brightly. I couldn't put Eoin and Margaret's story down until I'd reached the very end.
A NetGalley ARC
Eoin MacLean's decision to become one of Robert the Bruce's strike force team, The Highland Guards, plays havoc with his personal life. But then Eoin wasn't expecting to be captivated by a wild, red headed, bewitching young woman, Margaret MacDowell, whose father's enmity is legend.
Happiness is replaced by anger. Eoin's promise to not reveal the secret of the Highland Guards is ripe ground for mistrust between himself and Margaret to erode to the point of no return. Margaret is all that is admirable in the way she seeks to support and understand him, but perceived rejection and frequent snubs worms away at her self confidence.
Convinced he has been betrayed by Margaret, Eoin turns his back on their marriage and takes up the mantle of his reported death. Some years later, when he learns that Margaret is about to remarry, Eoin has second thoughts, particularly as his Lazarus reappearance behind the English lines, will cause consternation for Bruce's enemies.
What his return causes for Margaret, and the surprises Eoin will face, are very different from the outcome he anticipated, leaving them both shaken and reeling in shock.
Filled with surprises, treachery, misunderstandings and heart throb moments, this addition to the Highland Guards series is just as addictive as it's running mates. Once again the midnight candle burned brightly. I couldn't put Eoin and Margaret's story down until I'd reached the very end.
A NetGalley ARC
November 5, 2018
I loved the Heroine in this novel. She was a free spirited woman. She followed her heart and her own mind. Margaret, a.k.a. Maggie, is by far one of the most realistic female heroines. You can easily follow her thoughts and empathize with her.
Eoin "Striker" MaClean is a highly intelligent member of the Highland Guard. He is a strategizer. He comes up with infiltrating plans of attack. The book starts off with him crashing his own wife, Margaret's, wedding. She thinks he is deceased.
He has come to arrest her father and her brother's. But his confrontation with her causes them to slip away. So he takes her with him and his team track them. It dips back and forth to tell the story of how the two met. How they became married. What went wrong. Then what led her to believe that for the past 6 year's he was dead. Then it returns to the present. They are forced together with a common goal.
They have to learn to navigate through old wounds and perceived slights. To find their way back to one another again. A remembrance if you will. This was an easy read. A good story. With well written characters.
Eoin "Striker" MaClean is a highly intelligent member of the Highland Guard. He is a strategizer. He comes up with infiltrating plans of attack. The book starts off with him crashing his own wife, Margaret's, wedding. She thinks he is deceased.
He has come to arrest her father and her brother's. But his confrontation with her causes them to slip away. So he takes her with him and his team track them. It dips back and forth to tell the story of how the two met. How they became married. What went wrong. Then what led her to believe that for the past 6 year's he was dead. Then it returns to the present. They are forced together with a common goal.
They have to learn to navigate through old wounds and perceived slights. To find their way back to one another again. A remembrance if you will. This was an easy read. A good story. With well written characters.
April 27, 2021
I cannot help but think Maggie got the wrong end of the bargain in her marriage to eoin. To have doubts cast on your character, suspicions, by your own husband is not an easy thing. Her strength is very admirable.
Eoin put duty, job, king before Maggie, his own wife. Albeit he realized his errors and mistakes in the end but that doesn't excuse his behavior in the beginning.
Maggie, daughter of eoins enemy, married eoin after rumors start swirling about her in court. Shortly after their marriage eoin took her to his home in kerrera and left her there with his despicable family whilst he went off to train for the highland guard, an elite team created by Bruce, the conqueror. He swore a vow of silence. He couldn't tell Maggie what he was doing, with whom and where he was going. Months and years he left her without any word from him.
I despise eoins character. He is not a very likable warrior and hero. And I cannot seem to get past that.
Eoin put duty, job, king before Maggie, his own wife. Albeit he realized his errors and mistakes in the end but that doesn't excuse his behavior in the beginning.
Maggie, daughter of eoins enemy, married eoin after rumors start swirling about her in court. Shortly after their marriage eoin took her to his home in kerrera and left her there with his despicable family whilst he went off to train for the highland guard, an elite team created by Bruce, the conqueror. He swore a vow of silence. He couldn't tell Maggie what he was doing, with whom and where he was going. Months and years he left her without any word from him.
I despise eoins character. He is not a very likable warrior and hero. And I cannot seem to get past that.
February 10, 2016
Ah the joys of a lack of communication. Eoin and Margaret are seemingly from opposite sides but there's just something that draws them to eachother that surpasses any potential barriers. Due to misunderstandings, they are estranged and Eoin lets her believe he is dead. When she is set to remarry, he reappears and throws everyone's plans into upheaval. It's quite the epic story with a very strong historical plot and characterization that shows true talent. Extremely good read.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
May 20, 2016
And we have a release date - November 24th! For Eoin MacLean, I will *try* to be patient.
Want to read
October 23, 2014Şok içindeyim şuan seri 10 kitaba ulaşmış!!! Aslında harika bir şey bayılıyorum İskoçlara hele de Monica yazmış olunca amaaa bizim ülkede ne ara çıkacak bunlar!! Daha ilk 3 kitap var sadece :((
Displaying 1 - 30 of 279 reviews