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Murray Family #20
Highland Guard
New York Times bestselling author Hannah Howell brings back the daring Murray family in a brand-new tale of dangerous love rekindled. . .
Lady Annys MacQueen has no other choice. The deception that enabled her to keep her lands safe is on the verge of being revealed by a cruel kinsman. To shield her young son from the sword and her people from devastation, she must turn to the one man she could never forget...
He lives for duty and honor. So the only way Sir Harcourt Murray could repay the laird who saved his life was to agree to father a child with Sir MacQueen's wife...Lady Annys.
Now the passion he still feels for the lovely strong-willed widow is as all-consuming and perilous as securing her lands. But to convince her that his love is forever real means confronting her most wrenching fears--and putting everything they treasure most at stake...
Lady Annys MacQueen has no other choice. The deception that enabled her to keep her lands safe is on the verge of being revealed by a cruel kinsman. To shield her young son from the sword and her people from devastation, she must turn to the one man she could never forget...
He lives for duty and honor. So the only way Sir Harcourt Murray could repay the laird who saved his life was to agree to father a child with Sir MacQueen's wife...Lady Annys.
Now the passion he still feels for the lovely strong-willed widow is as all-consuming and perilous as securing her lands. But to convince her that his love is forever real means confronting her most wrenching fears--and putting everything they treasure most at stake...
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2015
234 people are currently reading
1387 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Howell
116 books2,643 followersHannah Dustin Howell is a best-selling American author of over 40 historical romance novels. Many of her novels are set in medieval Scotland. She also writes under the names Sarah Dustin, Sandra Dustin, and Anna Jennet (see below).
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
She has also used the following pseudonyms:
Anna Jennet, Sarah Dustin and Sandra Dustin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
February 19, 2015
Hannah Howell does what she does best in this twentieth book in the Murray series. This protective Highland warrior gets to save the day along with some help from the woman he left behind and the son they made in secret. Benet, the little boy, adds a lot to the story. He's a sweet, precocious little thing, and is evidence of why I love kids in romance books so much. It just adds that unbreakable bond between two people. The secondary characters helped to round out the tropes used in this historical romance, and it was en enjoyable and satisfying read.
Advance copy provided by the publisher for review
Advance copy provided by the publisher for review
March 6, 2015
3.5-4 Stars
The plot was interesting, but the story was too slow paced for my liking. I don't know if it was just me, but the ending was a little predictable by the middle of the book.
As for the characters, I liked Harcourt.. He was a decent man. Anny's pissed me off most of the time. Joan was brilliant, and a good friend who seemed to know when to take matters into her own hands lol. Benet, was very adorable! He added so much to the story and also a bit of comic relief. Roban and Roberta were the coolest pets there is!
All in all, it was an ok book. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it.
*This arc was kindly provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The plot was interesting, but the story was too slow paced for my liking. I don't know if it was just me, but the ending was a little predictable by the middle of the book.
As for the characters, I liked Harcourt.. He was a decent man. Anny's pissed me off most of the time. Joan was brilliant, and a good friend who seemed to know when to take matters into her own hands lol. Benet, was very adorable! He added so much to the story and also a bit of comic relief. Roban and Roberta were the coolest pets there is!
All in all, it was an ok book. I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it.
*This arc was kindly provided by Kensington Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
July 2, 2021
Харкът Мъри и Анис Маккуин
Сър Харкът Мъри няма как да се отзове на зова за помощ на Анис Маккуин, съпруга на мъжа, който му е спасил живота. Пристигайки в дома на Анис, той научава, че приятелят му Дейвид е мъртъв, а коварният му братовчед иска да заграби крепостта и земите, обявявайки че сина на Анис не е дете на Дейвид. Проблема е там, че малкото момче наистина не е син на Дейвид, а син на Харкът. Преди пет години, приятелят му го моли за едно. Да прекара няколко нощи със съпругата му и да осигури наследник на клана Маккуин, и Харкът се съгласява, а след като Анис забременява напуска, разкъсван от угризения, че изоставя жената която обича и детето им, но няма друг начин. Тя е съпруга на приятелят му. Но сега тя е вдовица и той е готов на всичко, за да защити нея и сина, който никога няма да може да признае за свой и да направи така, че завинаги да останат заедно.
Преди пет години, съпруга на Анис иска от нея немислимото. Кастриран от ревнив съпруг, още преди сватбата, Дейвид не може да консумира брака си и да осигури наследник на клана си. А без наследник, клана ще остане в ръцете на злият му братовчед. Привлечена от Харкът Анис се съгласява, макар да е разяждана от угризения, че нарушава брачният си обет. В мига в който разбира, че е бременна, Харкът я напуска, без да каже нито дума, разбивайки сърцето й. Сега обаче, след като коварен враг е убил съпругът й, Анис знае, че не може да се довери на никой друг, освен на мъжа който обича, бащата на детето й и изпраща вест на Харкът, молейки го за помощ. Сега единствената й надежда, е, че ако той успее да ги защити тя няма да не остане отново с разбито сърце в мига в който той отново напусне живота й.
Книгата имаше страхотен потенциал. Самата история беше много интересно измислена. Подразни ме обаче това, че цялата информация, за това, защо са били заедно, защо Харкът се е чувствал толкова задължен на Дейвид, че да му даде детето си, защо на Дейвид му се е наложило да кара друг мъж да бъде със съпругата му, и защо Анис се е омъжила за мъж, който дори не може да консумира брака им... всичко това, беше изложено много разпръснато. Тук малко инфо, там още малко. Щеше да е по-интересно просто да върне лентата 5 години назад и да ни покаже какво и защо се е случило.
Обаче в тази книга ми допадна, че Харкът беше готов да се бори за Анис и сина им. Макар да съществуваше проблема, че той има крепост за която да отговаря, а Анис трябваше да се грижи за наследството на сина си и също не можеше да напусне дома си, той си блъскаше ума над това, как да направи нещата така, че да се получат. И факта, че й го каза, и че призна пръв любовта си ме накара да извикам едно РАЗГЕЛЕ, защото ако и той се дърпаше като магаре на мост като предишните си роднини, щях адски да се издразня. Та така, хубава книга, с интересна история, само малко разпокъсана и не особено подредена. Но е приятно четиво.
Сър Харкът Мъри няма как да се отзове на зова за помощ на Анис Маккуин, съпруга на мъжа, който му е спасил живота. Пристигайки в дома на Анис, той научава, че приятелят му Дейвид е мъртъв, а коварният му братовчед иска да заграби крепостта и земите, обявявайки че сина на Анис не е дете на Дейвид. Проблема е там, че малкото момче наистина не е син на Дейвид, а син на Харкът. Преди пет години, приятелят му го моли за едно. Да прекара няколко нощи със съпругата му и да осигури наследник на клана Маккуин, и Харкът се съгласява, а след като Анис забременява напуска, разкъсван от угризения, че изоставя жената която обича и детето им, но няма друг начин. Тя е съпруга на приятелят му. Но сега тя е вдовица и той е готов на всичко, за да защити нея и сина, който никога няма да може да признае за свой и да направи така, че завинаги да останат заедно.
Преди пет години, съпруга на Анис иска от нея немислимото. Кастриран от ревнив съпруг, още преди сватбата, Дейвид не може да консумира брака си и да осигури наследник на клана си. А без наследник, клана ще остане в ръцете на злият му братовчед. Привлечена от Харкът Анис се съгласява, макар да е разяждана от угризения, че нарушава брачният си обет. В мига в който разбира, че е бременна, Харкът я напуска, без да каже нито дума, разбивайки сърцето й. Сега обаче, след като коварен враг е убил съпругът й, Анис знае, че не може да се довери на никой друг, освен на мъжа който обича, бащата на детето й и изпраща вест на Харкът, молейки го за помощ. Сега единствената й надежда, е, че ако той успее да ги защити тя няма да не остане отново с разбито сърце в мига в който той отново напусне живота й.
Книгата имаше страхотен потенциал. Самата история беше много интересно измислена. Подразни ме обаче това, че цялата информация, за това, защо са били заедно, защо Харкът се е чувствал толкова задължен на Дейвид, че да му даде детето си, защо на Дейвид му се е наложило да кара друг мъж да бъде със съпругата му, и защо Анис се е омъжила за мъж, който дори не може да консумира брака им... всичко това, беше изложено много разпръснато. Тук малко инфо, там още малко. Щеше да е по-интересно просто да върне лентата 5 години назад и да ни покаже какво и защо се е случило.
Обаче в тази книга ми допадна, че Харкът беше готов да се бори за Анис и сина им. Макар да съществуваше проблема, че той има крепост за която да отговаря, а Анис трябваше да се грижи за наследството на сина си и също не можеше да напусне дома си, той си блъскаше ума над това, как да направи нещата така, че да се получат. И факта, че й го каза, и че призна пръв любовта си ме накара да извикам едно РАЗГЕЛЕ, защото ако и той се дърпаше като магаре на мост като предишните си роднини, щях адски да се издразня. Та така, хубава книга, с интересна история, само малко разпокъсана и не особено подредена. Но е приятно четиво.
February 25, 2015
A nice historical romance that I ultimately enjoyed, Highland Guard was a lovely read. It wasn't perfect but I still liked it overall.
Annys was a heroine determined to protect her home. She knew that she wouldn't be able to do it on her own, so she called for Harcourt to aid her. I liked how protective she was over her son and her home. My only issue with her was that I didn't understand why she was so reluctant to be with Harcourt again even though it was obvious that they still loved each other and the obstacle that had been in their way before wasn't there anymore. Her reasons seemed vague at best. But, I still liked her.
Harcourt was a sweetie. He was determined to help Annys and would do anything for her. And I loved how he obviously cared for his son even from the distance that had been between them for the entirety of the little boy's life. He was great and I liked him.
The romance was good. It was clear that Annys and Harcourt still loved each other. And they definitely had chemistry together. Annys's reluctance did slow it down and keep me from really getting into the romance, but I still thought they were good together.
There were a few issues that brought the book down for me. First, I really wish we had seen more of Benet (Annys and Harcourt's son). I really wanted to see the building of a relationship between Harcourt and his son. Second, the story was predictable. I guessed exactly what was going to happen early on, so that kind of took away from any shock value. Third, and most importantly, the plot was slow. To the point where it dragged in some places. That kept me from getting completely drawn in to the story and the characters.
Despite these issues, however, I still enjoyed the story overall. It was a nice read and addition to the series. It just wasn't the best of them.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Annys was a heroine determined to protect her home. She knew that she wouldn't be able to do it on her own, so she called for Harcourt to aid her. I liked how protective she was over her son and her home. My only issue with her was that I didn't understand why she was so reluctant to be with Harcourt again even though it was obvious that they still loved each other and the obstacle that had been in their way before wasn't there anymore. Her reasons seemed vague at best. But, I still liked her.
Harcourt was a sweetie. He was determined to help Annys and would do anything for her. And I loved how he obviously cared for his son even from the distance that had been between them for the entirety of the little boy's life. He was great and I liked him.
The romance was good. It was clear that Annys and Harcourt still loved each other. And they definitely had chemistry together. Annys's reluctance did slow it down and keep me from really getting into the romance, but I still thought they were good together.
There were a few issues that brought the book down for me. First, I really wish we had seen more of Benet (Annys and Harcourt's son). I really wanted to see the building of a relationship between Harcourt and his son. Second, the story was predictable. I guessed exactly what was going to happen early on, so that kind of took away from any shock value. Third, and most importantly, the plot was slow. To the point where it dragged in some places. That kept me from getting completely drawn in to the story and the characters.
Despite these issues, however, I still enjoyed the story overall. It was a nice read and addition to the series. It just wasn't the best of them.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
February 25, 2015
When Lady Annys McQueen sends word that she, her people and her lands are in dire need of assistance from a hostile takeover by her deceased husband's family, she isn't prepared to come face to face with the man that made her feel like she never in her life felt before, the man who gave her the treasure she hold dearly everyday.
Sir Harcourt Murray, a most honorable man, appears as quickly as he can to protect Lady Annys and her people. When he sees her again, the yearning that he had for her returns full force and is difficult to put aside. Now he not only must protect Annys and her people, but the young son Benet, who she holds more dear than anything in her life.
For me, any Hannah Howell book is a must read. I do really enjoy them. Highland Guard has a very good premise but it was a bit drawn out for me. Sir Harcourt Murray is a wonderful character with so many endearing qualities, Annys however started to wear on me. I love the Murrays with their honor and loyalty to one another, but this book didn't give me the usual rapor I have come to love so much. I still am a huge fan of Ms. Howell's and would never miss anything she writes. This story was a good read and still passes inspection.
~KIMBERLY~
Sir Harcourt Murray, a most honorable man, appears as quickly as he can to protect Lady Annys and her people. When he sees her again, the yearning that he had for her returns full force and is difficult to put aside. Now he not only must protect Annys and her people, but the young son Benet, who she holds more dear than anything in her life.
For me, any Hannah Howell book is a must read. I do really enjoy them. Highland Guard has a very good premise but it was a bit drawn out for me. Sir Harcourt Murray is a wonderful character with so many endearing qualities, Annys however started to wear on me. I love the Murrays with their honor and loyalty to one another, but this book didn't give me the usual rapor I have come to love so much. I still am a huge fan of Ms. Howell's and would never miss anything she writes. This story was a good read and still passes inspection.
~KIMBERLY~
January 27, 2019
3.5 stars.
This book started out almost as a repeat of the previous one Highland Avenger with our widowed heroine Annys trying to hold her keep against an unscrupulous relative and asking for help from our hero Harcourt Murray. Turns out Annys and Harcourt shared a secret history and a son... born with the manipulation of her dead impotent husband to be the future heir of the keep.
This book is probably the most epic of the series to-date, and I'm seeing a change in the characterisation of H/h in these later books: they seem to act much more reasonably and there's no longer that waiting for the other to declare him/herself first that was so prevalent in the earlier books.
All in all, another solid Highlander romance.
This book started out almost as a repeat of the previous one Highland Avenger with our widowed heroine Annys trying to hold her keep against an unscrupulous relative and asking for help from our hero Harcourt Murray. Turns out Annys and Harcourt shared a secret history and a son... born with the manipulation of her dead impotent husband to be the future heir of the keep.
This book is probably the most epic of the series to-date, and I'm seeing a change in the characterisation of H/h in these later books: they seem to act much more reasonably and there's no longer that waiting for the other to declare him/herself first that was so prevalent in the earlier books.
All in all, another solid Highlander romance.
June 23, 2023
Solid story. Decent pacing.
February 16, 2016
Good entry into the Murray clan books. Harcourt and Annys had gotten to know each other five years earlier. Harcourt had been injured and left for dead then found by Sir David MacQueen who saved his life. In return, David asked Harcourt to father a child with his wife, as he needed an heir to his lands. It wasn't a difficult task, but Harcourt regretted the need to walk away when it was over. Five years later, Annys is in trouble. David has died and his cousin is determined to take the land. The only thing she can do is write to Harcourt and ask for his help. She worries that his arrival could expose the truth and put everything in danger.
I liked Annys. She had loved her husband enough to do as he asked, though there were plenty of guilty feelings that went with it. She does her best to protect her son and the land, but is also smart enough to know when she needs help. Harcourt's arrival throws her emotions into turmoil, as she has never forgotten the way he made her feel.
Harcourt is an honorable man and did what he had to years ago. However, he has regretted walking away and has never forgotten Annys or her child. When he receives her plea for help, he can't say no. Seeing her again has reawakened his desire for her, and now that she's free, he wants her for his own.
I loved seeing the relationship grow between Harcourt and Annys. The feelings were already there, they just had to accept them. Annys's fear of the truth being revealed has her trying to keep Harcourt at a distance to protect them both. But they have to work together on the protection of the keep, and it isn't long before desire overtakes them. Annys's feelings for Harcourt grow, but she knows he will have to leave again and dreads the heartbreak that will follow. Harcourt wants Annys as a permanent part of his life, but he is committed to his other lands, and knows that Annys and her son Benet have to stay on theirs. His mind is constantly working to find a solution. That solution comes in an unexpected way and I loved seeing how it ended. It was sweet to see them finally share their feelings with each other.
The problem with Sir David's cousin attempting to take the land keeps the action going. Sir Adam is convinced that the land should be his and will do anything to get it. I enjoyed seeing the way that Harcourt and company foiled the early attempts. Things get really intense with the final confrontation. There is an interesting twist to the end of the battle, one that I suspected would happen but was wondering when and how. That twist has a huge impact on Annys and Harcourt's futures.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters. Harcourt's companions were all wonderful. Each one was unique and had his own special role. I'd like to see more of them, especially Callum, who I remember from an earlier book. I also loved Annys's friend/housekeeper Joan. She had a great way of helping Annys see what was most important. The sweetest of all was Annys's son Benet. I loved seeing things from his point of view and the things he got up to. His bits with the lamb Roberta, who is "not for the pot" were really fun to see.
I liked Annys. She had loved her husband enough to do as he asked, though there were plenty of guilty feelings that went with it. She does her best to protect her son and the land, but is also smart enough to know when she needs help. Harcourt's arrival throws her emotions into turmoil, as she has never forgotten the way he made her feel.
Harcourt is an honorable man and did what he had to years ago. However, he has regretted walking away and has never forgotten Annys or her child. When he receives her plea for help, he can't say no. Seeing her again has reawakened his desire for her, and now that she's free, he wants her for his own.
I loved seeing the relationship grow between Harcourt and Annys. The feelings were already there, they just had to accept them. Annys's fear of the truth being revealed has her trying to keep Harcourt at a distance to protect them both. But they have to work together on the protection of the keep, and it isn't long before desire overtakes them. Annys's feelings for Harcourt grow, but she knows he will have to leave again and dreads the heartbreak that will follow. Harcourt wants Annys as a permanent part of his life, but he is committed to his other lands, and knows that Annys and her son Benet have to stay on theirs. His mind is constantly working to find a solution. That solution comes in an unexpected way and I loved seeing how it ended. It was sweet to see them finally share their feelings with each other.
The problem with Sir David's cousin attempting to take the land keeps the action going. Sir Adam is convinced that the land should be his and will do anything to get it. I enjoyed seeing the way that Harcourt and company foiled the early attempts. Things get really intense with the final confrontation. There is an interesting twist to the end of the battle, one that I suspected would happen but was wondering when and how. That twist has a huge impact on Annys and Harcourt's futures.
I really enjoyed the secondary characters. Harcourt's companions were all wonderful. Each one was unique and had his own special role. I'd like to see more of them, especially Callum, who I remember from an earlier book. I also loved Annys's friend/housekeeper Joan. She had a great way of helping Annys see what was most important. The sweetest of all was Annys's son Benet. I loved seeing things from his point of view and the things he got up to. His bits with the lamb Roberta, who is "not for the pot" were really fun to see.
February 12, 2015
Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Another Murray delight from the hands of Hannah Howell!
Deception and Desire is the name of the game in Highland Guard and Ms. Howell puts a wonderful twist on her story. Especially since it is probably more realistic than we could imagine.
Lady Annys MacQueen married for the usual reasons, her family contracted it. Only the man she was supposed to marry went off to battle in France and Annys married his younger brother instead. A man she adored (in a sisterly manner) but who couldn't have children, who could barely consumate the marriage. So he came up with a devious plan to keep the land in the family so to speak.. Annys was coerced into sleeping with a man of his choice, an honorable man. A child was conceived and all was well. Except Annys had truly fallen in love and knew she could do nothing about it. Now five years later, her husband and best friend dead, her keep in trouble, Annys is forced to call on the only man she has ever loved for help.
Sir Harcourt Murray agreed to father the child of a man who saved him. A debt was due and Harcourt agreed to pay it. Only it was more of a business transaction and the fact that he had to leave both his child and the woman he cared for behind has ate at him for five long years. But now he has been called back and no way is he leaving anything behind.. only it might be a bit harder to figure out than he can imagine.
Sometimes the Murray books get a bit same old same old but this one.. well this one reminds me of the beginning. The family ties, the honor and passion, the battle for justice and the twists and turns to happiness.. Yeppers this was one excellent book!
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Highland Guard, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on February 24, 2015
Another Murray delight from the hands of Hannah Howell!
Deception and Desire is the name of the game in Highland Guard and Ms. Howell puts a wonderful twist on her story. Especially since it is probably more realistic than we could imagine.
Lady Annys MacQueen married for the usual reasons, her family contracted it. Only the man she was supposed to marry went off to battle in France and Annys married his younger brother instead. A man she adored (in a sisterly manner) but who couldn't have children, who could barely consumate the marriage. So he came up with a devious plan to keep the land in the family so to speak.. Annys was coerced into sleeping with a man of his choice, an honorable man. A child was conceived and all was well. Except Annys had truly fallen in love and knew she could do nothing about it. Now five years later, her husband and best friend dead, her keep in trouble, Annys is forced to call on the only man she has ever loved for help.
Sir Harcourt Murray agreed to father the child of a man who saved him. A debt was due and Harcourt agreed to pay it. Only it was more of a business transaction and the fact that he had to leave both his child and the woman he cared for behind has ate at him for five long years. But now he has been called back and no way is he leaving anything behind.. only it might be a bit harder to figure out than he can imagine.
Sometimes the Murray books get a bit same old same old but this one.. well this one reminds me of the beginning. The family ties, the honor and passion, the battle for justice and the twists and turns to happiness.. Yeppers this was one excellent book!
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Highland Guard, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on February 24, 2015
August 1, 2015
What a brilliantly lifelike story! Howell deftly recreates medieval Scotland for her readers, allowing them to walk back in time while enjoying a fast paced, intricate tale full of intrigue, betrayal, and romance. Her picturesque descriptions paint this world before your eyes. The consistent dialogue completes the transition, really making you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. I really enjoy how Howell presents life amidst chaos and betrayal. Romance and chemistry don’t take a back seat simply because something has gone wrong. At the same time, it doesn’t outrank that either. Balance is key.
Howell presents her readers with characters who are physically, intellectually, and emotionally developed. Not only are these characters easy to get to know but they are also easy to understand and relate to, regardless of the difference in time and circumstance. Both of the main characters were the type of individuals that one could easily fall for. At the same time the trials that they’d been through and the barriers to their relationship made my heart go out to them. The large cast, reaching out to clansmen, villagers, and even livestock and pets made me feel like part of this story, rather than simply part of the audience.
This was a brilliant return to the Murrays. Howell’s unique & wildly imaginative tale kept my attention, while the realism of the story made it infinitely more enjoyable. I would highly recommend it to all lovers of historical romance, whether they’ve read the rest of the series of not.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
Howell presents her readers with characters who are physically, intellectually, and emotionally developed. Not only are these characters easy to get to know but they are also easy to understand and relate to, regardless of the difference in time and circumstance. Both of the main characters were the type of individuals that one could easily fall for. At the same time the trials that they’d been through and the barriers to their relationship made my heart go out to them. The large cast, reaching out to clansmen, villagers, and even livestock and pets made me feel like part of this story, rather than simply part of the audience.
This was a brilliant return to the Murrays. Howell’s unique & wildly imaginative tale kept my attention, while the realism of the story made it infinitely more enjoyable. I would highly recommend it to all lovers of historical romance, whether they’ve read the rest of the series of not.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2019
...secrets and scoundrels!
With a dead husband and a cruel and truculent kinsman laying claim to her lands, Lady Annys MacQueen calls on the one person who might help. Sir Harcourt Murray. Five years ago Harcourt agreed to Sir David's plan to beget an heir on David's wife to ensure the entail.
Five years is a long time but neither Annys or Harcourt had forgotten the passion that lay between them.
But now is now and it looks like warfare is not far off. The passion is put aside, or is it?
I must admit I 'kenned' what was coming half way through, but still an enjoyable tale although a weaker cousin when compared to the rest of Howell's series.
A NetGalley ARC
27 May 2019 Still enjoyed this on a second read!
With a dead husband and a cruel and truculent kinsman laying claim to her lands, Lady Annys MacQueen calls on the one person who might help. Sir Harcourt Murray. Five years ago Harcourt agreed to Sir David's plan to beget an heir on David's wife to ensure the entail.
Five years is a long time but neither Annys or Harcourt had forgotten the passion that lay between them.
But now is now and it looks like warfare is not far off. The passion is put aside, or is it?
I must admit I 'kenned' what was coming half way through, but still an enjoyable tale although a weaker cousin when compared to the rest of Howell's series.
A NetGalley ARC
27 May 2019 Still enjoyed this on a second read!
August 20, 2021
I was a bit of a struggle to get through the book. I couldn’t connect with the book. Some areas I felt were cut short and then the story picked up into another scene in the book. I felt that I was reading the book without actually reading the book.
February 11, 2015
**This review was submitted to all rightful parties PRIOR to posting it to GoodReads.**
For me Howell is one of those authors that I mingle with as I do with this series. Some of the books I have enjoyed others I haven't. Regrettably, Highland Guard was one of the books that I didn't like so much and is sad because I know how great of an author Howell is.
My biggest downfall with this book lays within the plot and in the romance. The plot just was not right for me. First I will start with the plot. It was terribly repeated throughout the book. I didn't have to wait for the ending of this book because I felt like it had already been revealed throughout the book. As for the romance it felt a little too dry for me and unreal to fellow romances that I have read so far this new year. I think Harcourt's love for Anny, the heroine was genuine but I felt like his love wasn't returned in an equal way. Anny came off overbearing instead of strong-willed and that was another turnoff for me with this book. I admire heroines that stand on their own two feet, but this just did not work.
As I have done before I am going to pick and choose the books I want to read from Howell. Some of her stories are worth applauding and others are not, but that's not going to stop me from reading future books from this author.
For me Howell is one of those authors that I mingle with as I do with this series. Some of the books I have enjoyed others I haven't. Regrettably, Highland Guard was one of the books that I didn't like so much and is sad because I know how great of an author Howell is.
My biggest downfall with this book lays within the plot and in the romance. The plot just was not right for me. First I will start with the plot. It was terribly repeated throughout the book. I didn't have to wait for the ending of this book because I felt like it had already been revealed throughout the book. As for the romance it felt a little too dry for me and unreal to fellow romances that I have read so far this new year. I think Harcourt's love for Anny, the heroine was genuine but I felt like his love wasn't returned in an equal way. Anny came off overbearing instead of strong-willed and that was another turnoff for me with this book. I admire heroines that stand on their own two feet, but this just did not work.
As I have done before I am going to pick and choose the books I want to read from Howell. Some of her stories are worth applauding and others are not, but that's not going to stop me from reading future books from this author.
February 1, 2015
I received a ARC in return for a honest review.
I was really excited to get a chance to read this one, since in the past I have loved reading this author. I set up of the story was intriguing, and I liked the idea of it. I wasn’t sure how I felt about the heroine, with the permission of her husband, sharing another man’s bed to get a child. I am not a huge fan of that particular setting, but somehow as the story unfolded, it worked for me. This story is set in medieval Scotland, and deals with the ramifications of a mans greed and the lengths he will go to just for a castle and some land. The villain is pretty horrid, and I wanted to kill him myself. The lengths he goes to is a bit extreme, but it really added a level of suspense to the story. The romance itself between Annyse and Harcourt was overall very tender and charming, but I had a somewhat challenging time connecting to them fully. But the story overall was well established, and had quite a few entertaining scenes that kept me hooked on the story. Not my favorite book from this author, but I really enjoyed the way that these two came together in the end and I do hope we get another book in this series.
I was really excited to get a chance to read this one, since in the past I have loved reading this author. I set up of the story was intriguing, and I liked the idea of it. I wasn’t sure how I felt about the heroine, with the permission of her husband, sharing another man’s bed to get a child. I am not a huge fan of that particular setting, but somehow as the story unfolded, it worked for me. This story is set in medieval Scotland, and deals with the ramifications of a mans greed and the lengths he will go to just for a castle and some land. The villain is pretty horrid, and I wanted to kill him myself. The lengths he goes to is a bit extreme, but it really added a level of suspense to the story. The romance itself between Annyse and Harcourt was overall very tender and charming, but I had a somewhat challenging time connecting to them fully. But the story overall was well established, and had quite a few entertaining scenes that kept me hooked on the story. Not my favorite book from this author, but I really enjoyed the way that these two came together in the end and I do hope we get another book in this series.
February 17, 2015
***I received an e-ARC of Highland Guard from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own!***
I am a big fan of the Murray Family novels by Hannah Howell and this latest installment, Highland Guard, was no exception. Ms. Howell does a great job of portraying history, family and passion in her novels. There’s always a special twist in her stories that makes each one different from the last.
In Highland Guard, Sir Harcourt Murray and Lady Annys MacQueen have already met. In fact, to repay her now dead husband, David, for saving his life, he agrees to sleep with Annys and father her child. You see, David had an unfortunate incident in his youth that resulted in him being unable to have children of his own. After David passes away (under suspicious circumstances), Annys calls for Harcourt to help securing her lands.
The chemistry between Harcourt and Annys is obvious from the get-go. I loved their adorable son, Benet, and their pets, Roban and Roberta. There were other characters I can’t wait to hear more about. I’m excited to see what Ms. Howell has in store for the Murray’s next!
I am a big fan of the Murray Family novels by Hannah Howell and this latest installment, Highland Guard, was no exception. Ms. Howell does a great job of portraying history, family and passion in her novels. There’s always a special twist in her stories that makes each one different from the last.
In Highland Guard, Sir Harcourt Murray and Lady Annys MacQueen have already met. In fact, to repay her now dead husband, David, for saving his life, he agrees to sleep with Annys and father her child. You see, David had an unfortunate incident in his youth that resulted in him being unable to have children of his own. After David passes away (under suspicious circumstances), Annys calls for Harcourt to help securing her lands.
The chemistry between Harcourt and Annys is obvious from the get-go. I loved their adorable son, Benet, and their pets, Roban and Roberta. There were other characters I can’t wait to hear more about. I’m excited to see what Ms. Howell has in store for the Murray’s next!
February 25, 2015
If you are a Hannah Howell fan you will love this book. I have read many books from Hannah Howell and I reread them over and over again because her talent is out of this world. Howell's talent shows on every page with every word drawing you in more and more.
I received this book as an ARC from Net galley for my honest review. As mentioned above I love Hannah Howell books and have purchased them in the past. This book is a great story that catches us up on what happened in the past and gives us a present story that while good I must admit it is slow.
If you’re a fan you will love it because it is a great book that adds on to the series. If you are a newbie don't give up on the book, it’s great, this book is not filled with fluff but great content with twists and turns and romance. I recommend this book and can’t wait for more from Hannah Howell.
I received this book as an ARC from Net galley for my honest review. As mentioned above I love Hannah Howell books and have purchased them in the past. This book is a great story that catches us up on what happened in the past and gives us a present story that while good I must admit it is slow.
If you’re a fan you will love it because it is a great book that adds on to the series. If you are a newbie don't give up on the book, it’s great, this book is not filled with fluff but great content with twists and turns and romance. I recommend this book and can’t wait for more from Hannah Howell.
March 4, 2015
Enjoyable historical fiction with an interesting plot, but it was a bit slow. I would have liked to have known more about their relationship between Harcourt and Annys five years prior before continuing in the present. The brief glimpses were not enough for me to understand the bond formed between them. Harcourt is a true hero, saving the day and getting the girl at the end. Benet was adorable and I wish there were more scenes between him and Harcourt. Benet's pets were adorable and added a bit of humor to the story. This is the first book I've read by Ms. Howell, and I look forward to reading the previous books in the series - I have a feeling there are plenty of swoon-worthy heroes to pick from.
ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2019
I really liked this audiobook. The narrator did a great job with the voices and the story was a good one.
February 18, 2015
Hannah has been doing the highlander bit for a while and this book is a reminder of why she is the queen of this section of romance. The plot was very interesting, adventurous, involved. The characters had great development. An established history. A spark. I had an inkling about how it would be resolved from early on but that didn't deter me from enjoying the ride. Thank you for another adventure. Can't wait to see what you bring to the table next :)
February 20, 2016
Highland Guard
Love,Love, Murray series and give it a five star ratings. The storyline was humorous with the cat and lamp with other highlights of humor thru out the novel. I love when I find myself laughing out loud or crying in emotional scenes, it make the novel a worthy read. Hannah Howell, does it for me again.
Love,Love, Murray series and give it a five star ratings. The storyline was humorous with the cat and lamp with other highlights of humor thru out the novel. I love when I find myself laughing out loud or crying in emotional scenes, it make the novel a worthy read. Hannah Howell, does it for me again.
March 3, 2015
MURRAYS!!!! Need I say more? ;)
December 3, 2015
solid highland romance if a bit melancholy.
July 31, 2018
Barely passably different from the one that came right before it. Perhaps I'm putting myself at a disadvantage for reading these back-to-back?
November 15, 2017
Reviewed by Robin
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Before I begin I have to admit to a little Hannah Howell crush. It seems that being one of my favorite authors it is always a pleasure to get the chance to review one of her new books. I also have to admit that though I haven’t read all twenty of the Murray Family books I have read over 10 of them. Most are on my shelf along with other favorite authors.
Ms. Howell has a way of taking her character traits making them apply to modern times even though they are historical novels; so that it is easy to identify with said characters. In Highland Guard, Sir Harcourt Murray comes to the aid of Lady Annys McQueen. It was fun to watch them rekindle the passion from the past that they shared. Their past in not unlike something that could have happen in your town. Annys was married to someone who was unable to produce an heir. Murray was once saved by Annys’ late husband Sir David and felt honor bound to repay David by fathering his child. Hardship perhaps as there was a spark between Annys and Murray. Now with David killed Annys needs hired guns to help protect her son along with his inheritance. Feelings that were buried are back. I loved the slow gentleness between Annys and Murray that had the undertones of a sensual passion just under the surface hidden for too long. Annys feels that she still must keep it buried for her son Benet’s sake. Who by the way stole my heart with his love for all his lost pets…especially the lamb that he saved from being slaughtered (what with the way it let the cat ride on his back). I was able to capture the vision of this which was so realistic I actually caught myself laughing out loud.
Ms. Howell wrote from the heart with the love of a mother for her child. She brings depth to her story by using an authentic Scottish accent which only adds to making the story as realistic as possible. If you haven’t read any of her other stories it may be hard to read at first but once you start you find that her stories become a part of you taking you into a time and place that was rich with family.
I enjoyed the story of Annys and Murray along with Benet. The characters were strong yet not afraid to show that they were weak also; making them easy to relate to. The visualization of the Scottish Highlands was yet again easy to imagine as if you were standing on the hills looking at the keeps, smelling the fires and the food, listening to the laughter, the fighting, and the loving.
For me it really doesn’t matter if you read this along with the first nineteen or by itself because it is very good on its own. It is a story that makes you feel …what Annys and Murray have gone through, what they are going through and the hope for more to come. It makes you laugh out loud at the pure wonderment of life through the eyes of a child (which we tend to forget sometimes). Ms. Howell once again takes us to an interesting place filled with passion, adventure and fun that keeps us entertained. You might want to bring along a bottle of wine because it may be a long night. You won’t want to put it down…
Book provided by Netgalley
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Before I begin I have to admit to a little Hannah Howell crush. It seems that being one of my favorite authors it is always a pleasure to get the chance to review one of her new books. I also have to admit that though I haven’t read all twenty of the Murray Family books I have read over 10 of them. Most are on my shelf along with other favorite authors.
Ms. Howell has a way of taking her character traits making them apply to modern times even though they are historical novels; so that it is easy to identify with said characters. In Highland Guard, Sir Harcourt Murray comes to the aid of Lady Annys McQueen. It was fun to watch them rekindle the passion from the past that they shared. Their past in not unlike something that could have happen in your town. Annys was married to someone who was unable to produce an heir. Murray was once saved by Annys’ late husband Sir David and felt honor bound to repay David by fathering his child. Hardship perhaps as there was a spark between Annys and Murray. Now with David killed Annys needs hired guns to help protect her son along with his inheritance. Feelings that were buried are back. I loved the slow gentleness between Annys and Murray that had the undertones of a sensual passion just under the surface hidden for too long. Annys feels that she still must keep it buried for her son Benet’s sake. Who by the way stole my heart with his love for all his lost pets…especially the lamb that he saved from being slaughtered (what with the way it let the cat ride on his back). I was able to capture the vision of this which was so realistic I actually caught myself laughing out loud.
Ms. Howell wrote from the heart with the love of a mother for her child. She brings depth to her story by using an authentic Scottish accent which only adds to making the story as realistic as possible. If you haven’t read any of her other stories it may be hard to read at first but once you start you find that her stories become a part of you taking you into a time and place that was rich with family.
I enjoyed the story of Annys and Murray along with Benet. The characters were strong yet not afraid to show that they were weak also; making them easy to relate to. The visualization of the Scottish Highlands was yet again easy to imagine as if you were standing on the hills looking at the keeps, smelling the fires and the food, listening to the laughter, the fighting, and the loving.
For me it really doesn’t matter if you read this along with the first nineteen or by itself because it is very good on its own. It is a story that makes you feel …what Annys and Murray have gone through, what they are going through and the hope for more to come. It makes you laugh out loud at the pure wonderment of life through the eyes of a child (which we tend to forget sometimes). Ms. Howell once again takes us to an interesting place filled with passion, adventure and fun that keeps us entertained. You might want to bring along a bottle of wine because it may be a long night. You won’t want to put it down…
December 17, 2018
I won’t even deem this book with a review. This book was terrible. I thought ooooh Scotsman’s in this book maybe there will be a good story. Eh, no.
Basically, a woman calls upon a neighbor to help her save her home as she is being attacked and she doesn’t know how. She knows it’s from her dead husband’s cousin. So this said neighbor comes to her rescue. They haven’t spoken in 7 years and he finally sees her and her, ahem, 7 year old son. Plot thickens, eh. Well that’s all it thickens too. The cousin trying to get the inheritance even though her son is the new laird. Basically civil war within the family. And this woman, don’t remember her name or care, and the neighbor find each other again and sparks fly. They basically want to make another baby.
This book was way too long. It could have been condensed to like 150 pages. And that still would have been too long. The language was too flowery for me and it was not easy to read. It jumped around too much. There was no fluidity.
Pass.
Basically, a woman calls upon a neighbor to help her save her home as she is being attacked and she doesn’t know how. She knows it’s from her dead husband’s cousin. So this said neighbor comes to her rescue. They haven’t spoken in 7 years and he finally sees her and her, ahem, 7 year old son. Plot thickens, eh. Well that’s all it thickens too. The cousin trying to get the inheritance even though her son is the new laird. Basically civil war within the family. And this woman, don’t remember her name or care, and the neighbor find each other again and sparks fly. They basically want to make another baby.
This book was way too long. It could have been condensed to like 150 pages. And that still would have been too long. The language was too flowery for me and it was not easy to read. It jumped around too much. There was no fluidity.
Pass.
January 29, 2018
This was a 3.5 for me. I liked the characters, both the hero and heroine and the large cast of side characters. I also liked the animal sidekicks, though sometimes they were a little overdone for me. The story was fine, but it just moved way too slowly. It was also really repetitious. A character would think something, and then two lines later they would say it aloud to someone. Lots of repetitive thinking/talking, and it felt like it could have been a much shorter story without losing anything. I was also surprised to find the editing on the poor side. The author seemed to interchange "ye" and "you" at whim, from the same character and even in the same sentence sometimes. I was surprised no one thought to standardize the Scottish dialect, since this is a Scottish romance.
October 2, 2019
This is the 20th book in the Murray family series. Lady Annys needs help and the only one to help her is Sir Harcourt Murray. She hasn't seen him in over five years. Her husband has been murdered and her son needs a champion. Her in-laws want her keep. And will go to war to get it. Secrets from the past come to light. And not all in the village are wanting Annys's son to live. When he arrives he doesn't come alone. He brings five knights who's reputation at fighting is just as good as his. But when the war starts what will happen when it seems that all is lost? Not telling. I loved the last couple of chapters the best. Great ending.
December 15, 2020
Secrets... She had a big one that was a ticking time bomb just waiting to tank the rest of her life and everyone else's around her.
But at the time Lady Annys MacQueen had done what had been asked of her and in the end she was left with a much needed treasure.
He never forgot the deal he made with the man who'd saved his life.
Now that she's a widos he has a chance to win her.
But he's a Murray and they were known far and wide for there ability to achieve anything they set their stubborn minds to.
But at the time Lady Annys MacQueen had done what had been asked of her and in the end she was left with a much needed treasure.
He never forgot the deal he made with the man who'd saved his life.
Now that she's a widos he has a chance to win her.
But he's a Murray and they were known far and wide for there ability to achieve anything they set their stubborn minds to.
April 8, 2024
Best of them all!
I have read and enjoyed all 20 of the Murray’s books, but this one is my favorite. Some of the earlier ones were a bit more frightening than I liked. While this had plenty of tension, it was balanced by hope and careful planning for the future by main characters. Knowing secondary characters from earlier books made it feel like I was at home in this book. Read this, but after you read the first 19!
I have read and enjoyed all 20 of the Murray’s books, but this one is my favorite. Some of the earlier ones were a bit more frightening than I liked. While this had plenty of tension, it was balanced by hope and careful planning for the future by main characters. Knowing secondary characters from earlier books made it feel like I was at home in this book. Read this, but after you read the first 19!
February 28, 2020
This book was fantastic! This book kept you on your seats. I really enjoyed the ending because it didn't give you that adrenaline that the other books do because the ending of this book was much more calm yet it made it much more enjoyable! I would recommend this book to anyone who like a real page turner.
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