Kilts and Daggers

Highland Spies #2

by Victoria Roberts

Ever since Lady Grace Walsingham discovered her uncle and sister are spies for the Crown, she has yearned for adventure. She's counting the days until she can leave barbaric Scotland behind, even if she must endure Highland captain Fagan Murray's company for weeks.

Fagan has a simple mission: escort the haughty Lady Grace back to England. But nothing is ever easy. The sharp-tongued woman needles him at every turn. But when a menacing threat follows them on their journey, Fagan's grudging tolerance for Grace turns to respect...and into a perilous attraction that could seal their fate.

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Scotland, Historical Fiction, Enemies To Lovers, Fiction

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published May 5, 2015

About the author

Award-winning author Victoria Roberts writes Scottish historical romances about kilted heroes and warriors from the past. She was the recipient of the 2013 RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice award for Best Medieval Historical Romance for X MARKS THE SCOT, as well as the 2014 BTS Book Reviews Red Carpet award for Best Historical and Best Book of the Year for MY HIGHLAND SPY.

Represented by Jill Marsal of the Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, Victoria is a member of Romance Writers of America, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, several local chapters, in addition to being a contributing author to the online magazine CELTIC GUIDE.

Victoria resides in western Pennsylvania with her husband of twenty two years and their two beautiful children--not to mention one spoiled dog. When she's not plotting her next Scottish adventure, she's dragging her clan to every Scottish festival under the sun. Please visit Victoria at VictoriaRobertsAuthor.com.

Reviews

[Lover of Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review-Kilts and Daggers Summary 
Grace Walsingham, despises Scotland, she hates everything about it. She can’t stand it, the brogue that she can barely understand, the gaelic language that is difficult to learn, to the horrid tapestries and the warrior like culture. She misses England, and reluctantly agreed to stay for a month, to help her sisters. She is still shocked that her sister and her uncle are spies, and now wants to discover if she could be one too. But there is one Scot who drives her more crazy than the rest, Captain of the guard…Fagan Murray. Fagan would do anything for his Liard and close friend, but having to escort Grace around is up to the top of his tolerance level, she may be beautiful and graceful….but she is conceited and selfish to his mind, and will be relieved when he can take her back to England…back to her fiancée and out of his hair…..only there is one problem, they desire each other, and when they kiss…fireworks explode, now a hate has turned into a fierce desire, but there is an enemy out to destroy them, and only with Fagan and Grace working in unity will they be able to defeat the traitors who wish to destroy them.
The Hero 
Fagan is Captain of Laird Ruairi Sutherland’s Guard. Also one of his closest friend, and they are evenly matched in stamina and ability (despite the fact neither would care to admit it). What we see from Fagan is a Scottish warrior who is brave and honorable and patient. Whew he is like a saint when it comes to Grace especially. He also is great with the other sisters who despite their english roots are quite a handful more than most Scottish lasses. Fagan is what drew me into the story, I love how enduring he is with Grace, and sexy enough to melt the room. His character is quite different from other heroes by this author, what I enjoyed most was how he is portrayed as the “steady rock” of the story, always sure and sound, and reliable and right there when you need him the most.
The Heroine 
Grace Walsingham was a heroine that had to grow on me. She eventually did….at the end. But it took 300 pages to do it. It’s a slow transformation that we see in Grace though. Unlike other Highlander romances I have read, where you join an English and a Scot together, Grace is quite a snob quite a bit actually. But from the beginning, you sense something more from her, that if she is put in the right circumstance, she can become something more than what she is portrayed and what she seems to be. You have to allow a wide learning curve with this character, but what I did enjoy was seeing her change slowly…and its bit by bit, it doesn’t happen overnight, but we see how its the small things that make the difference. So even though she wasn’t my favorite, I have to say that I was impressed with how Roberts made a heroine that you just don’t like in the beginning to one that you love by the end. That is pure talent in my opinion.
Plot and Story Line 
Kilts and Daggers is the second book in Robert’s most recent series. Now I haven’t read the first, and I probably should have especially since I have it on my nook, but just haven’t gotten around to reading it yet. However I do feel like it can still be read as a stand alone. I just love Victoria Roberts….I read one of her other books last year and just couldn’t enough of it. I was pretty excited for this one though, and I did have quite an enjoyable time of it. Not quite what I was hoping for, but I did find many aspects quite worth the read, and the bantering in this story was superb. Oh I just loved everything about…and now I just have to read Ruairi and Ravenna’s story. What I also liked quite a bit was the side characters, because we see quite a bit of Ruairi and Ravenna and Ruairi son and the other younger sisters as well. And already some seeds of another sister and her story. Oh that should be a good one. From the beginning of this story I loved the hero and hated the heroine. Oh did I not like her!! She tends to be quite judgemental and a bit self-righteous of everything Scotland…no matter what it is. However our hero….is a angel…literally…oh how patient he is with her. I love how he handles her in such fun ways too! There is a danger and mystery aspect to the plot, and it slowly filters in from the beginning, so you have that added aspect. We also see a connection form between Grace and Fagan…and it starts out pretty small but then it builds into something stronger and solid. It’s not until they are really tested that I began to enjoy Grace. I wasn’t sure if I would end up liking her…but I did miraculously. I loved the dynamics of the plot and the way it weaved about it certain ways you didn’t exactly see at first. It sneaks up behind up in some portions and I enjoyed seeing it unravel and come together.
The Cover 
What a lovely cover…I love the nightly theme…the blues and purples. And can you say HOT Highlander? I mean really I see this cover and he is all I see LOL I could tape him on my wall and just look at him all day.
Overall View 
Kilts and Daggers is a tale of how opposites attract, two people who are as different as fire and ice….but a fierce passion erupts and a deep love builds between them. A story of personal growth, fighting for those you love, and sacrifice. THRILLING!

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Grace Walsingham wants some excitement in her life. Raised to marry well and be a blushing flower on the arm of her husband, she is betrothed to English nobility. Grace has learned that both her beloved uncle and her older sister were once spies for the Crown, and it sounds like something she would like to try. But before she can undertake her endeavor, she must endure the barbaric Scots in their plaids and kilts to attend her sister’s wedding. Particularly needling to her fine sensibilities was the Highland captain, Fagan, whose knuckle-dragging manners and powerful physique have her emotions waging their own inner battle. And guess who is charged with seeing her safely returned to England? If they do not kill each other first, the dangers on the road and the enemies they must face bring these two closer together than either would admit to liking. Will required tolerance begin something else the longer they bicker and banter on their journey?

Kilts and Daggers by Victoria Roberts is filled with Scottish warriors, a rather snobbish English lady who has nothing but the accomplishments of her family and their name to lean on and kilts, lots of kilts. Ms. Roberts has filled her scenes with lush detail, and vivid battles, as well as some testy banter and barbs between her two main characters. Fagan is everything a kilt chaser could dream of, brave, honorable and self-assured. Grace is the product of a sheltered life, a little too haughty and self-important. Why not let Fagan bring her down a peg or two with his hidden charms? I love how Ms. Roberts handled her plot, from start to finish, never worrying if we fell for all of characters, just assuring they were complex and colorful! A fun, historical romance where two people are fated to be together, even if they are kicking and screaming their denials.

I received this ARC edition from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Highland Spies - Book 2
Publication Date: May 5, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN: 9781402292033
Genre: Historical Romance
Print Length: 320 pages
Available from: Amazon |  Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kilts and Daggers by Victoria Roberts is a 2015 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a delightful and fun historical romance with a little bit of English, a little bit of Scotland, a pinch of humor, a dab of spice, a handful of dangerous situations, spies and adventure, all mixed together, making this the perfect recipe for a highly entertaining story.

Grace is English through and through, has been gently bred and groomed to marry into nobility, but she's restless. Before she marries Daniel, her betrothed, she wishes to spend some time with her recently married sister in Scotland, and perhaps make a case for her entrance into the spy game, something her sister allegedly gave up when she married.

But, for now she must deal with the overbearing Fagan, a captain in his highland guard, who answers only the Laird, who is Graces' new brother-in-law. Fagan has been given the duty of being her escort and bodyguard, while Grace would rather her own Englishmen be assigned to her. Fagan infuriates her and keeps her flustered and agitated while in his presence, as he makes it quite clear he would rather be anywhere else but with her.

Will the two of them survive the journey to England without killing each other? Or will they have their hands full when they discover mercenaries are hot on their trail?

This is pretty light read, a story about two people who viewed the other as an enemy, but soon realized they didn't have to hate each other. They could look past the conflict between the English and Scotland and focus on each other, appreciating the qualities each possessed. Fagan was a super hot and sexy man in a kilt, and Grace was kind of spoiled and haughty at times, had a quick temper, and spoke without thinking first quite often, making me think everyone was right about her not being spy material. However, she rises to the occasion more than once and she grew on me in time.

There is nothing too emotional or deep here, just an action adventure type romance, which is a perfect way to escape reality for a while. 3.5 rounded to 4

[Caz · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Kilts and Daggers is the second book in the author’s Highland Spies series. I haven’t read the previous book, and although this one works for the most part as a standalone, there are some references to earlier events which left me feeling a little in the dark. It’s a straightforward and – unfortunately - not especially original read, telling the story of the adamantly English Lady Grace Walsingham and her love-hate relationship with Fagan Murray, the ruggedly handsome Highlander and captain of the guard for Ruairi, Laird Sutherland, who has recently married Grace’s elder sister, Ravenna.

Grace loves her sister dearly, but really doesn’t understand her decision to leave the civilisation of England for the wild, untamed highlands of Scotland. The weather is dreadful, the food is horrible, the language is impenetrable and the men are too large and unsophisticated. In short, she hates the place, but she’s agreed to remain there for a month after her sister’s wedding in order to get her two younger sisters settled as they are now to reside with Ravenna and her husband. Grace is betrothed to a handsome young Englishman, Lord Daniel Casterbrook, and the wedding is set to take place as soon as she returns home.

Grace and Fagan strike sparks off each other at every encounter, desperately trying to fight the strength of the attraction building between them. When the time comes for her return to England, Grace is torn, but can’t admit it. The thought of marriage to the handsome, refined Daniel is no longer quite the attractive prospect it once was – but given Rhianna’s choice to marry a highlander, it’s down to Grace to make the brilliant match that will enable her to ensure that her younger sisters are also able to marry well when the time comes. At the appointed time, she sets out with the armed escort provided by her new brother-in-law which is headed, of course, by his trusted captain of the guard. Ruairi and Rhianna see them off, wondering how on earth the pair will survive the journey to England without killing each other!

I generally like romances in which the protagonists start out disliking each other, so the continual back-and-forth indulged in by Grace and Fagan – which is well written and often funny - is the most enjoyable part of the book. But I had a hard time warming to Grace and at times, found her continual denigration of everything about her host’s nation to be rather uncomfortable. Not that the Scots don’t put down the English as well; the book is set in 1610, just a few years after the countries were united under King James I, and relations are clearly difficult, to say the least. But Grace comes off as snobbish and self-important, and I lost patience with her on more than one occasion. One of those was when she refused Fagan’s proposal of marriage after they’d slept together. It’s such an anachronistic attitude and always annoys me when I come across it in historical romances, because women were almost exclusively judged according to their “purity” (and often still are). Her preoccupation with following in Ravenna’s footsteps and becoming a spy for the crown (which is such a hackneyed phrase, no matter the era in which the book is set) is also incredibly naïve, when it’s clear as day that she’s completely unsuited to such an occupation. But it’s definitely a point in Grace’s favour when she eventually concedes this and comes to see what a stupid idea it is. She also grows up considerably during the latter part of the book, which meant that I was fonder of her when I’d finished than I had been at the outset.

Fagan is your archetypal rugged highlander, brave, honourable and gorgeous (if a little rough around the edges), but although he’s an attractive character, he doesn’t really rise above the two-dimensional. The secondary storyline is well-integrated into the romance and lends some excitement to the journey, but the villain of the piece is rather a one-note character and the reasons behind his actions are somewhat simplistic.

In spite of my reservations about the characterisation and actions of the heroine, Kilts and Daggers is an enjoyable, well-written story, and if you can get past Grace’s faults, you may enjoy it more than I did. Ultimately, however, the book lacks substance and that certain something that makes for a truly memorable read.

[Shauni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy


What a fun book! I have read one other Victoria Roberts book, X Marks the Scot , which was from an entirely different series.

I will admit, Kilts and Daggers was a bit slow for me in the beginning. Enough to initially put down and read another. But when I finally took the time to sit down and read it.. yeah *smiles* a very good book.

Kilts and Daggers is book two in Ms. Roberts Highland Spies Series and takes place in the Highlands and England is desperately trying to get things under control. James is King of both England and Scotland but the Scots are still unruly and the English still want to grind them down.

Lady Grace Walsingham can be a bit of a silly, over opinionated bit of fluff but she has a good heart and a desire to server her family and country (yes in that order). After learning that her deceased father, her guardian and Uncle and her sister were all spies for the crown (her uncle still is), Grace decides that she should be one too. With no training or true understanding of what it would take. But she knows that the "uncivilized" Scots need to have someone keep an eye on them.. as well as all the other miscreants in the world. Grace in all honesty is not initially a likable character, she is shrill, arrogant and opinionated, in short an 18 year girl who surely knows everything. But time spent with her sister in Scotland and one pain in the derriere captain of the guard slowly changes her mind. Slowly falling for the arrogant buffoon brings all of Grace's misconceptions to light..

Fagan Murray is the captain of the guard his clan, second only to the Laird. He has been the subject of plenty of verbal abuse from Lady Grace and his little liking for her.. but he too is forced to change his opinion as he gets to know her. Discovering a woman of integrity and loyalty and who loves her family. Now he's been charged to return her to England, slowly discovering that he really doesn't want to. When Grace is kidnapped, Fagan will do anything to get her back, even die if that is what is asked of him.

Like I said at the beginning this started out slow and really neither character appealed to me but as the story grew, so too did Grace and Fagan. Turning from one dimensional caricatures to two passionate, intriguing individuals. And as the true villain emerges, well let's just say it's wise to follow your heart.

A Solid Read and an excellent way to spend an afternoon or evening.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of Kilts and Daggers, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on May 5, 2015

[Zoe · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went between 3 and 4 stars for this book. But I just gave An Offer from a Gentleman 4 stars, and I liked Kilts and Daggers better.

Because I read Julia Quinn and Victoria Roberts on the same day, I had opportunity to assess how I felt about both writers. I think Julia Quinn is the better writer, wittier and has a more refined way with words. I say this because having read Victoria Roberts before, I noticed that she repeats herself in a book, recycles the same phrases over and over again in one book. It bothers me. Is there no other way to express similar sentiments? I think characters in this book must have said "Arse" to each other at least 5 or 6 times, and not by the same person.

There are other things that I have observed in both writers but it is a review of Kilts and Daggers after all. So I will stop the comparison.

I liked Grace and Fagan in the book. We have all read about how couples bicker with each other constantly because they were not honest with their feelings toward each other. Most of the time it just ends up being a huge mess where I want to pull out my hair because they would act like idiots in the books. Grace and Fagan fought and were always getting on each other's nerves. But I think this is one case when love and denial are done well. They mocked each other but did not get on my nerves, much to my surprise. Roberts gave Grace and Fagan both a sense of tenderness and vulnerability which really helped soften the constant bickering.

That being said, I do think there were quite a few places where the story could have taken a much better turn and Roberts kind of just let it pass. It could have been a more heart-wrentching story but ended up being a slightly better than average highland romance. Again I like the characters well enough hence the 4 stars.

I will not be reading other books in the series though. I already know that I don't like the premises & characterization of them and the writing is not my cup of tea enough for me to overlook that.

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pair of English ladies have travelled to the Highlands for a wedding. One is marrying, the other wishes her well but finds all the uncouth hairy Scots rather too much to enjoy. Still she catches the eye of one handsome lad. The bride has been a spy for the English crown but is leaving all that behind her - and leaving the lively London life.

Nicely picturesque, with a wolf dog, riding along the coast and tapestries depicting battle, besides learning skills with swords and knife-throwing. Some sinister mercenaries arrive to throw in a hint of menace. Not much happens for the first two-thirds of the book after which it livens up with abduction and fights.

"What. An. Idiot." Stop the robotic punctuation. And American spellings like molded and vise jar badly in the setting. But I can understand that it's written for an American reader. As for the mulled wine, that would be served hot, mulled over a fire with spices; but I can understand that there might have been some left to pour in the middle of the night, unlikely though it is. I like some aspects of the tale though it's a bit slow for much of the book.

This is an adult romance which is more gentle romance in this pretty setting than physical.
An ARC was sent to me for an unbiased review.

[Lori Meehan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75*
I enjoyed this book. It was the perfect example of you don't judge a book by its cover or I should say person by there Heritage and demeanor.
Lady Grace Walsingham has come to the Highlands for the wedding of her sister Ravenna after finding out her sister and uncle are spies for the crown. She longs for the adventure that Ravenna had as a spy and doggedly asks Ravenna to train her.
Lady Grace has been a thorne in Captain Fagan Murray's side since the day she arrived to the Sutherland Keep. Grace can't stand Fagan's highland barbaric ways and Fagan has had enough of Grace's sassy and spirited attitude. They are at constant odds and neither of them can wait for her to take her leave and go back to England. They both have a strong sense of family and clan expectations and are determined to do whats right and expected. There's only one problem things start to change when Fagan escorts Grace back to England and Grace is about to have the adventure she's longed for but it could be the last one for her and Fagan.
This is part of a really good series and not a stand a lone book.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Series!
This is a great series; this is the second book in the Highland Spies series by Victoria Roberts. Grace has yearned for adventure, ever since she found out that her uncle and sister are spies for the crown. Grace is determined to learn all she can so she can also become a spy when she gets back to England. Fagan is a Highland captain, and was asked to escort Grace by to England. Grace is sassy and strong willed, and Fagan is the barbaric Scotsman. When they are not throwing barbs at each other, they can’t keep their hands off of each other. During the trip back to England they have to fight the mercenaries, while learning to love and trust each other. If you are looking for a great romance, with mystery and humor and sexy kilt wearing Scottish men then you need to read this book. I can’t wait until the next book comes out.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

[JJ Weir · Rating 3 out of 5]

I get it. She speaks her mind. Can we move past that? Once we get over how outspoken she is, there are things to enjoy about this book, mainly that it gets me to book 3 (which is the one I really wanted to read). This being said, it wasn’t bad and I must confess I’m a fan of the title! Check it out if you like highland books.

[Jordan MacKinnon · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I didn't love this book as much as the first one. Grace was really really hard to like and reading from her POV was a slog! BUT Fagan!! My man!! Gosh I love you so much!! He saved the book and deserved the world!!! He was so witty and snarky! And I am sucker for that!!

Anyways looking forward to more of this wonderful world!!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read from this author and I am happy to say that I enjoyed it immensely. It is set in the Highlands of Scotland and with danger, mystery and of course a stunning romance, it will keep any historical romance reader happy.

Fagan Murray is the captain of the Laird’s guard and he protects the Sutherland Keep diligently. With no land or money in his future, he has no plans to marry or have a family soon. When Ruairi gets married to an English woman, Fagan is dismayed to find her sisters are visiting for an extended period of time and he is not sure he will survive them.

Grace Walsingham is the sister to the Laird’s new wife. She and her sisters Kat and Elizabeth are staying with Ravenna and Ruairi for several weeks after the wedding. She is a very proper English lady and does not let many forget it, especially Fagan who she spars with frequently. She is to marry soon to an English noble, Daniel and is excited to get back to England but first wants her sister to introduce her to the art of spying as she wants to follow Ravenna’s path to excitement.

When Fagan escorts Grace back to England they realize their own feelings are becoming stronger and when danger follows they are determined to change their future.

I am always happy when I try a new author and it works out well. I am not sure why I have not read any of her books as I love stories set in Scotland. This also has some danger and intrigue to keep any reader engaged until the end.

Grace wants to follow her sister into the exciting world of espionage and spying for the crown. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending on how you look at it, things just never work out for her. She is several years younger and much more naïve than Ravenna and not quite as adept at the art of spying. She can barely throw a knife and when she is in trouble she gets in deeper before she gets out. I like how she is not the perfect heroine and laughed at several of her antics.

Fagan is a warrior, he is proud to be protecting the Laird’s family and the property that surrounds it. He has no ambition toward marriage or family as he has nothing to offer a woman. And when the Walsingham sisters come to visit, he is sure his life is cursed and will be happy when he escorts Grace back to her fiancé. However the more time they spend together, the more he is not sure he wants her to go and when danger finds her, he realizes his feelings are deeper than ever.

I like these two together, their banter back and forth is entertaining and when they test the waters in a beautiful Scotland forest, the chemistry was definitely apparent. They hold each other back not only because she is engaged but there is the fact he has nothing to offer and she has always professed to dislike the Scottish people (her sister’s husband excluded). I also like how the author did not make things easy for them, they go through quite a lot on their journey to England and it makes their relationship that much sweeter.

The pace is fast and secondary characters are key to this story, we actually see so much of Ravenna and Ruairi that it is like a continuation of their own story, which is a bit different. I also like Kat and Elizabeth, she has a very sisterly relationship with them which includes bickering and fighting and I am excited to see if one of the sisters is next in line for a book. It is the second in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone and it is an enjoyable historical romance with danger, intrigue and a bit of spying to satisfy many readers.

Review at: Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind

Copy from publisher for an honest review

[Eileen Dandashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoken words that will come back to haunt our heroine, Lady Grace Walsingham:

“ Understand this…Elizabeth is a Walsingham, and we Walsinghams chase no man.”

Ian, Lord Munro, neighboring clan’s laird, airs his general thoughts on women and Laird Sutherland's, in particular:

“Women are like damn midges, naught but pests, and I’m afraid ye and your lands are sorely infested.”

This remark from our hero, Fegan Murray, the captain of the guard at Sutherland castle, spoken with great sarcasm to Lady Grace Walsingham:

“Earlier on the beach, ye didnae want my help. Do you need my Scottish hands to assist ye, bhanaphrronnsa, or are ye capable of placing your English arse in the saddle yourself?”

Funny, suspenseful, sarcasm at its best, wickedness and passion. All found in this second book of Victoria Roberts’s series, The Highland Spies. Ms. Roberts satisfies the Scot in me drawing a great plot with a wholly fulfilling tale. She’s quite a bard!

Grace had her life all planned just like her parents wanted. She’d do as they’d requested and make them proud. She’d marry the extremely handsome Daniel Casterbrook, a very proper, titled gentlemen. She wanted to take up spying since her sister had recently retired once married to a Scottish husband. She thought she’d be very good at it.

But first things first: visit her sister for a couple of weeks who was insane enough to marry a Scot. Whatever could she see in him? English men were so proper, not wild like these "barbaric miscreants".

Grace follows her sister, Ravenna, to Scotland, thinking she’s been ruined, having prostituted herself as a spy and then kidnapped by the man who saves her. By the time she arrives to Sutherland, she’s so full of pent-up anger she pops the captain of the guard in the eye, blackening it and also starting a rather sarcastic relationship, full of delightful scenes. And here she thought the Scots were barbaric!

The Walsingham sisters all seemed to be under a spell once in Scotland. Grace couldn’t keep her eyes off the barbaric Fagan Murray, and eventually her hands! (a fun story in the making) Fifteen-year-old Elizabeth had already set her eyes on Ian Munro, laird of the neighboring clan. (note the quote from him at the top of the review). And Kat, the youngest of the Walsinghams couldn’t seem to stop following Torquil, driving the young lad mad. He is the son of Ruair, Laird Sutherland. With Ravenna, coming to the Sutherlands, she was also bringing her two youngest sisters, Elizabeth and Katherine (Kat).

But this is Grace and Fagan’s story and what a story it is. Throughout, Grace proved beyond a doubt she would not be a proper spy, but she was brave, smart, loyal and quick-witted. Her actions, however, did not always have the desired outcome. There was not a women who could be more sharp-tongued. But somehow, her true colors came through. She was lovable and Fagan could not look away.

But everything was wrong about this relationship. Fagan was not titled. He was barbaric, albeit brawny and handsome, he didn’t have anything to offer Grace, she would soon be betrothed to another.

Living in Scottish lands wasn’t always safe. Clans needed to support each other and there were remnants of Ravenna’s past life which may follow her. Also Scotland wasn’t stable. When Grace saw someone in the forest watching her she was angry because she thought the man was guarding her. She needed no guard. In reality, the man was a menace. They just didn’t know what he wanted. Great suspense works itself into the read.

I highly recommend. Once again, Victoria Roberts as an awesome author of Scottish Highland bards.

[Anna's Herding Cats · Rating 4 out of 5]

Men. In. Kilts. Really this is kinda like sweaty Marines rolling around in the grass. I'm all on board with a little look-see at that. Plus the gorgeous cover? Is an actual review really needed?? heh

Okay so a burly Scottish captain of the guard who isn't so fond of English lasses. An English lass who would rather be ANYWHERE than surrounded by brutish kilt wearing Highlanders. And the cursed luck that her sister married his laird. Bwahaha oh the scuffle these two are in as they poke and prod and drive each other absolutely batty just by breathing. And of course being all hot and tempting.

I had a fun time with this one. I love those near enemies to lovers storylines. Lady Grace was a handful. She definitely let her opinions be know, was a little reckless and jumped into things before thinking but I liked her and her spirit. And Fagan. *noms* again. Seriously. Alpha male. Kilts. Pure sexy goodness.

The romance was fiery and snuck up on these two but it was fun watching it happen as they traded barbs and generally had a good hate-on for each other. A little steam crept in which was nice but things didn't get too all out hot and bothered.

There's a bit of suspense as mercenaries arrive on the scene and cause trouble. As secrets are revealed and Grace's life is put in danger. It could be a bit gory now and again but kept things exciting and nerve wracking.

All in all, Kilts and Daggers was a fun bit of highlander delight. I loved watching all the big alpha Highlanders dealing with the dainty English ladies who had invaded their keep. All 4 sisters were something to behold and really gave these men--from 9 years old to 30+ --a run for their money. I loved seeing the guys flustered and despairing being invaded by so many women. I'll definitely be going back to book one to see how everything began--and how Fagan and Grace first met. And I'll surely be eagerly awaiting the next release.

[Book Binge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Grace is in the Highlands for her sister Ravenna’s wedding. Grace doesn’t like the Highlands and she wants to go back to England. She misses her sister, however, so is there a month before she’s ready to leave.

She has been butting heads with the Captain of the Guard but when he kisses her she can’t seem to get enough. They keep their kissing trysts a secret but it doesn’t stop Grace and Fagan from arguing constantly. Grace is engaged to a Lord in England and feeling the way she does when Fagan kisses her makes her think that maybe she shouldn’t be marrying for a station in life but more for love and passion.

Grace also believes, now that she found out her sister worked for and her uncle still works for the Crown as spies, that she also wants to work as a spy. She figures, how hard could it be? As much as Ravenna tries to make her see that it’s not a glamorous life Grace is determined. Almost getting kidnapped scares her but as she has no idea why anyone would want to kidnap her she’s set in her ideas about spying.

Grace eventually is on her way home with Fagan and other guards when they are overcome and she is kidnapped she start to rethink just about everything in her life and decides that changes need to be made.

I’ll admit that I don’t normally like romances where the hero and heroine are arguing all the damn time. I find it annoying and ridiculous, but that’s just me. This story, however, got me to actually like the mounting tension between Fagan and Grace and I was looking forward to seeing them get together. I think the difference in this story was due to the fact that even though they were arguing they were kissing in between so we got a bit of a respite. lol
I really enjoyed Fagan’s character in this story. He was stubborn but he cared about those he loved and wanted to take care of them. He was a bit overbearing at times with Grace but frankly she needed that direction in her life.

Grace was a bit of a whiny girl but considering her youth it was understandable. She came to her sense about a lot of things while being held against her will and she was strong enough to realize the mistakes that she’d made and stand up for herself. I had to admire her strength.

Overall a good story that was fun and entertaining.

Rating: 3.75 out of 5

This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Tracy.

[Frances McNeal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story by Victoria Roberts! I love her Highlander books!

I just started this story yesterday and already finished it this morning. It’s not a short story by any means but I flew through it and loved every minute of it. We first met Grace in My Highland Spy and I knew there would be something fun with her. She comes across rather stuck up and manages to catch Fagan, the Laird’s Captain of the Guard, attention with a fist to the eye! I was so anxious to see how this proper English lady with nothing but disgust for Highlanders, would fall in love with Fagan. The banter between the two was great, and Fagan has no problems putting her in her place. I enjoyed the fact that this was a love story not about a Laird. Often Highlander books revolve around the Kings and Lairds but Fagan is Ruairi’s best friend and captain. Fagan was a favorite of mine from the first book with his unending dedication to the Laird. Now Fagan must learn to adjust to the new life in the castle with Ravenna and her family. He struggles when Ravenna’s sisters arrive to stay as do all of the men when the castle is taken over by four strong-willed women. It makes for some great side stories especially with Torquel and even Angus the wolf is a part of the story!

This book is filled with adventure and danger as Grace and Fagan find themselves in a dangerous situation. Her family’s history with spying for the king has gotten her into some serious trouble. Through it all Grace doesn’t lose her fight to get what she wants. She and Fagan make a great couple, fun with the banter and hot between the sheets. I laughed in several places and was anxious as the story neared the end. Extremely enjoyable story!
Highly recommended for all Highlander fans! Victoria Roberts is an auto-buy for me. Every friend I’ve recommended her books to has thanked me!

This is book two in the Highland Spy's series. Definitely get both and read them back to back!

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

Book two of Victoria Roberts' Highland Spies series, Kilts and Daggers was a great read, the only that kept it from being a five star was Grace, she was kind of annoying at times but she is an eighteen year old naive girl who thinks she knows it all. Fagan Murray is a stubborn headed sexy scot, who can't resist the haughty Grace even when she is insulting him at every turn. Grace doesn't want to like Fagan, she is engaged to a proper English Gentleman and she doesn't even like Scotland; none the less Fagan catches her eye and her heart but she keeps herself emotionally at a distance by putting him down.

It does start off slow with the wedding of Ravenna her sister, the protagonist for book one of the series My Highland Spy. Spending two months in the highlands spending time with her sisters before returning to London and eventually her own wedding. In the two months she spends with in the highlands she finds herself growing close to Fagan. Fagan loves her but doesn't think he is good enough for her so try as he may he tries his best to keep her at arm's length. When it comes time to escort her back to England they can't hold back any longer. Something hinky has been going on twice previously bandits have tried to kidnap Grace and on the journey to England they finally succeed.

With more political hogwash and spy versus spy Grace and Fagan get caught in the middle of and the truth about a certain someone close to Grace is finally exposed and changes everything. This was a great book I loved the verbal sparring between Fagan and Grace and the immediate protectiveness he feels for her. I can't wait for more and with two more sisters that are unique and charming as Ravenna and Grace I look forward to their stories.

[Courtney · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found this book while searching through my local library's available ebooks and the cover caught my eye. But, because I can't stand reading a series out of order, I started with My Highland Spy before reading this book.

Overall, it was ok. I really enjoyed the first book in the series and was rather disappointed by this one. First off, the heroine was truly obnoxious. She was haughty, whiny, and stubborn. And, while I enjoyed her speaking her mind in many instances, overall, I found her to be abrasive with little self awareness. The first kiss was a surprise for the hero, the heroine, and for me as a reader because it seemed to come out of nowhere. The rest of the romance was stilted, forced, and awkwardly paced.

In general, I have a difficult time not comparing Grace, the heroine in this book, with her older sister, Ravenna, whose story and personality were much more enjoyable. I will certainly be keeping an eye out for the next book in the series, due out next year.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

These two characters don't much care for one another. Grace is only in Scotland for her sisters wedding. She particularly doesn't enjoy the way they live their life. Grace is betrothed to a nice Englishman and she can't wait to head back, but she's spending a bit of time with her sisters in the highlands. The more time they spend together the strong dislike becomes attraction. Fagan is in charge of protecting Grace on her travels back to England, but there are mercenaries around ready to cause trouble. This book has passion, adventure, intrigue, and humor. It catches your attention right from the beginning. I love how the clan of highlanders quake with fear of having the four lasses under foot.

[Sheryl C. Nash · Rating 5 out of 5]

One sentence is suffice: ACH, THAT WAS BLOODY BRILLIANT!!!!!! :D

*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca*

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.7

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars really. Enjoyable but not a work of art or anything. Fun!

[Peyton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found that "Kilts and Daggers" was not as good as the first book, "My Highland Spy". The story fell flat and I did not like Grace as much as I had enjoyed Ravenna. Fagan was still great. I was surprised to find that my favourite part of the book were the intimate scenes. I think that is largely because the story was so dry that the only good bits were when Fagan and Grace were together. I am going to finish the series and read "Kill or be Kilt". I hope that Roberts is able to pull through and knock it out of the park for the third one.

I do want to give some credit to "Kilts and Daggers". It brought up several topics that are not mentioned a lot in literature, but play a large part in people's lives. These include: menstruation, needing and using the loo (specifically, in times before plumbing), how skirts created a constant hazard, and how some people never get over bad aim. Roberts creates a realistic world and I appreciate that.

[Alicia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kilts and Daggers is the second book in the Highland Spies series by Victoria Roberts. Kilts and Daggers is a blend of historical romance and some intrigue. Lady Grace has been yearning for some adventure in her life ever since she learned that her uncle and sister are spies for the crown. She soon gets her wish granted, but she is about to learn a very important lesson the hard way, be careful what you wish for because you just might get it. She not only finds herself some adventure but also danger. Will Lady Grace survive the adventure that she so desperately wanted? Read Kilts and Daggers to find out.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wasn't really overly impressed by this book. I mean I liked the idea of these two, who hate each other, to be fighting their attraction. That's a trope I like.

But the way it played out felt sort of forced. Like they're yelling at each other and then they're kissing and everything's ok. I don't know, it just didn't feel natural. I like each character separately, but there just wasn't that same magic when they were together.

The plot wasn't anything spectacular either. I just didn't get into this one as much.

[LOVEROFBOOKS · Rating 3 out of 5]

I realize I'm in the minority here, but this was my least favorite book of hers, and I've read them all.

The issues I had were that Fagan and Grace seemed to fall in love so fast but I didn't feel the chemistry at all between them, and that I didn't really like Grace. She was just too sassy and stubborn for her own good. I would have liked to see a little more strength and backbone in Fagan also. To be honest, he seemed a little wimpy to me.

I love Victoria Roberts' writing usually, but this is the only book of hers I am not keeping.

[Jordan · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 rounded up. I enjoyed the first in this series, but this one... I found the heroine annoying, but even beyond that, it just felt very simple in a bad way. Maybe the author was trying to be more humorous? I just felt like rolling my eyes so many times though. The lead characters are both a bit daft and became a little tiring for me. I'll still try the last of the series though, hoping it's more like the first. The reader on the audiobook was great.

[Anne Blyth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outspoken Englishwoman Grace is driving the Captain of the Guard of her new brother in laws clan absolutely crazy but at the same time they are feeling attraction that is not appropriate. Grace is kidnapped on Fagans watch and as he tries to rescue her they admit their true feelings. Problem is that Grace is betrothed to an Englishman who isn't quite what he seems. Can Fagan and his clansmen rescue her with the aid of her Uncle and his men.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars
This is a fun, entertaining read. Fagan and Grace are interesting, complex, intriguing, entertaining characters. I enjoyed their many exchanges. The path to their HEA was full of twists and turns and at times entertaining to read. I enjoyed these characters and wish that we had gotten more from some of the subplots of the story. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and enjoyments. While this is the second book in the series, I read it as a stand alone.

[smokeandmirrors · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very annoying, I never should have continued with the series. The gaelic speakers continue speaking in english to each other because it's convenient for their english eavesdroppers, the specifics of the political situation and WHY people are spying on each other is never explained. The only silver lining was that the wretchedly annoying sister from book 1 finally realised she would be a shit spy, something I knew from the very beginning.