Highlander Redeemed

Guardians Of The Targe #3

by Laurin Wittig

Scotia MacAlpin may be only eighteen years old, but she’s no stranger to trouble. Her latest incident—which resulted in a death and forced her clan into battle—has made her an outcast among her exiled people. Scotia is tired of being ignored and overshadowed by her sister, a gifted Guardian of the Targe, and she’s become hell-bent on destroying the army out to capture the ancient Highland relic for their English king.

Duncan of Dunlairig has looked out for Scotia since she started to walk. She was as restless and reckless then as she is now—only the stakes have become higher and more perilous. While the rest of Clan MacAlpin ostracizes her, Duncan secretly helps Scotia become the warrior she yearns to be. But the real test of her skills may come when he needs her help—and her long-forgotten heart—in this thrilling and romantic Guardians of the Targe tale.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Fantasy, Scotland, Historical Fiction, Magic, Audiobook

274 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 12, 2015

About the author

Laurin writes bestselling and award-winning Scottish medieval romances and lives in southeastern Virginia.

For more information about all of Laurin’s books, please visit her web site, http://Heartlightjoy.com/books.

Reviews

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Targe is an ancient relic stone and protector of Scottish lands, that has many magical and mystical powers that most can't even wrap their head around. As this Targe has been protected by the MacAlpin for centuries, as it shields the heart of the highlands from invaders such as the English! It can actually be used as as shield to protect Clan MacAlpin for its enemies and keeping it hidden deep in Scotland. Yet the English King knows this and he says only one Scottish witch knows how to control it which he mean to abduct, learn and murder her when he is done using her.

This is another page turner and the third novel in this captivating novel that will warm your heart and steal your soul! Finally Scotia's story which I have been impatiently waiting for after reading her kin's story in Highlander Betrayed and Highlander Redeemed previously. My heart really went out as previously Scotia was a bit self involved and reckless and pays the price when some tragedies come hit home which also forces her clan into battle. Now her Clan has shun her and this title is really perfect as basically she wants to redeem herself in the eyes of her clan and in the perfect way too as a Scottish female warrior!

Duncan who has watched over Scotia since she was a wee lassie is ordered to track and keep a watch on Scotia and as he does he catches her trying to train herself as a warrior and decides to become her mentor and teacher in secret. Of course one thing leads to the next and feelings and emotions happen and you can figure out the rest. It will definitely make you swoon a bit...sigh!

This is a beautiful conclusion to this trilogy which I have loved all three books and recommend you read all three but of course you can read as a stand alone too. Clan MacAlpin are guardians of the Targe which is part of the problem of Scotia's jealousy as her cousin and sister have a role in it as protectors plus both recently married. I think Scotia feels so isolated and alone plus her mothers death just was the topping on the cake but in a bad way. My heart really went out for her even with her horrible past mistakes and the trust issues Duncan has with good reason with her so make sure you have your hankie ready as I found this a very beautiful but emotional read. Kinda of a hallelujah moment when Scottia does finally see the light per say of her past mistakes.


Also in this story or is discovered that this relic stone has the power of three as theses three blood kin all have Guardian powers connections as it seems out little Scotia has the power of knowing or does she? You will have to read this lovely book and find out it is one you truly don't want to miss! Pre-order today as it will be released next month May 12th.

This makes it all the more difficult for one English King's flunky one Captain Sherwood and his men. It is absolutely brilliant how this story conclusion comes together and of course we will see all the heroes and heroines of the entire series come in to play in this. Also how Scotia and Duncan come together romantically. I really hate seeing this series end and I have totally and unequivocally loved it! I can not praise it enough and I have been a fan of Ms. Wittig since her debut as an author in (The Devil of Kilmartin) and she is definitely one of my favorite authors and her books are always on my keeper shelf....

A big bravo for Laurin Wittig and I highly recommend all three books of this series:


Highlander Betrayed- Rowan MacGregor and Nicholas fitz Hugh

Highlander Avenged- Jeanette MacAlpin and Malcolm MacKenzie

Highlander Redeemed- Scotia MacAlpin and Duncan of Dunlarig


Other Books by Laurin Wittig:

The Devil of Kilmartin
MacAllister's Hope ( a Kilmartin Glen Novella)
Charming the Shrew ( The Legacy of MacLeod book 1)
Daring The Highlander ( The Legacy of MacLeod book 2)

[Chrissy Van Der Laan · Rating 5 out of 5]

*i received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
The McAlpin clan is preparing for a fight against the english Scotia is determined to be in the battle but she has alot to learn about herself and control first and Duncan is the man for the job.
This story held me captivated throughout the entire book. Scotia is a stubborn but lovable lass and Duncan is hard nosed but with a soft spot for Scotia.
The story is well written and really makes you feel like you are there with the characters.
i would highly recommend this read to anyone who loves a good book and is not sure what they should next.

[Katy Carkuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read all three of the books in the series, and each One can stand alone as a good read. However, this one brings all the "Guardians of the Targe" series stories together. I doubted if Scotia would ever release her anger, and Duncan would share his love, but if you are an ultimate romantic, like I, you will not be disappointed.

[Kat Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read!!! I absolutely loved it! This entire series is so good that you'll want to read them alone after the other.

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Targe is an ancient relic stone and protector of Scottish lands, that has many magical and mystical powers that most can't even wrap their head around. As this Targe has been protected by the MacAlpin for centuries, as it shields the heart of the highlands from invaders such as the English! It can actually be used as as shield to protect Clan MacAlpin for its enemies and keeping it hidden deep in Scotland. Yet the English King knows this and he says only one Scottish witch knows how to control it which he mean to abduct, learn and murder her when he is done using her.

This is another page turner and the third novel in this captivating novel that will warm your heart and steal your soul! Finally Scotia's story which I have been impatiently waiting for after reading her kin's story in Highlander Betrayed and Highlander Redeemed previously. My heart really went out as previously Scotia was a bit self involved and reckless and pays the price when some tragedies come hit home which also forces her clan into battle. Now her Clan has shun her and this title is really perfect as basically she wants to redeem herself in the eyes of her clan and in the perfect way too as a Scottish female warrior!

Duncan who has watched over Scotia since she was a wee lassie is ordered to track and keep a watch on Scotia and as he does he catches her trying to train herself as a warrior and decides to become her mentor and teacher in secret. Of course one thing leads to the next and feelings and emotions happen and you can figure out the rest. It will definitely make you swoon a bit...sigh!

This is a beautiful conclusion to this trilogy which I have loved all three books and recommend you read all three but of course you can read as a stand alone too. Clan MacAlpin are guardians of the Targe which is part of the problem of Scotia's jealousy as her cousin and sister have a role in it as protectors plus both recently married. I think Scotia feels so isolated and alone plus her mothers death just was the topping on the cake but in a bad way. My heart really went out for her even with her horrible past mistakes and the trust issues Duncan has with good reason with her so make sure you have your hankie ready as I found this a very beautiful but emotional read. Kinda of a hallelujah moment when Scottia does finally see the light per say of her past mistakes.





Also in this story or is discovered that this relic stone has the power of three as theses three blood kin all have Guardian powers connections as it seems out little Scotia has the power of knowing or does she? You will have to read this lovely book and find out it is one you truly don't want to miss! Pre-order today as it will be released next month May 12th.

This makes it all the more difficult for one English King's flunky one Captain Sherwood and his men. It is absolutely brilliant how this story conclusion comes together and of course we will see all the heroes and heroines of the entire series come in to play in this. Also how Scotia and Duncan come together romantically. I really hate seeing this series end and I have totally and unequivocally loved it! I can not praise it enough and I have been a fan of Ms. Wittig since her debut as an author in (The Devil of Kilmartin) and she is definitely one of my favorite authors and her books are always on my keeper shelf....

A big bravo for Laurin Wittig and I highly recommend all three books of this series:


Highlander Betrayed- Rowan MacGregor and Nicholas fitz Hugh

Highlander Avenged- Jeanette MacAlpin and Malcolm MacKenzie

Highlander Redeemed- Scotia MacAlpin and Duncan of Dunlarig


Other Books by Laurin Wittig:

The Devil of Kilmartin
MacAllister's Hope ( a Kilmartin Glen Novella)
Charming the Shrew ( The Legacy of MacLeod book 1)
Daring The Highlander ( The Legacy of MacLeod book 2)

[Rain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in the series, and it definitely shows. I did not know that it was part of a series until I started reading it, but I wish I had. While it is not necessary to read the first two to understand or enjoy Highlander Redeemed, I found myself wondering more often than not about what I had missed out on.

I wish I could find at least one negative comment to make about this novel to balance out all the good I can say, but I honestly cannot. It is your typical Scottish historical romance where the couple are facing the threat of the English. It had so much character, however, that it did not just fade into the background once I finished it with all the previous ones I have read. I also appreciate that the author actually has some background in Scottish heritage instead of just researching it. It made it much more authentic.

Mainly, however, I loved watching the couple grow both as a couple and as individuals. At first, Scotia irritated me with her behavior and thoughts, but I believe that was the point. To watch her grow and mature was both satisfying and relieving. She was believable as person instead of a made up character.

Overall, Highlander Redeemed is one of the best Scottish historical romances I have read as well as a coming of age story. I fell in love with the characters and became invested in their growth and story. Not only that, but the ending left me with warm satisfied feeling. Now, I am definitely planning on picking up copies of the first two.

[April · Rating 4 out of 5]

#3 in the "Guardians of the Targe" series, while, it can be read as a stand alone, I would suggest reading the other two in the series first. BUT, not necessary to enjoy "Highlander Redeemed".

This is a unique Scottish Highlander tale, as the warrior is female, a complete disaster waiting to happen, and has a bit of magic. But she one of the "Guardians of the Targe", only time will tell.

A fantastic, compelling and emotional read. The heroine of this story is not such a heroine until towards the ending of the story. She has many regrets, secrets, guilt and a terrible sense of Mis-direction. She wants to prove herself to her clan,and find her self-worth. The hero, is just that, a hero in every sense of the word, and in more ways than one. He has always been her protector,her fiercest defender, is directed to keep her out of trouble by the clan Chieftain, and has always loved her. Trouble is her middle name, can she finally find her purpose, her destiny and her true love, before it's too late and she is banished from the clan?

Fast paced Highland tale of enemies, secrets, regrets, forgiveness, healing, passion and romance. A truly fantastic Scottish tale, with challenging, but loveable characters and a unique storyline. An enjoyable and satisfying read!

*Received for an honest review from the publisher through Net Galley*

**Cross-posted on My Book Addiction Reviews**

Rating: 4
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[Liette Bougie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highlander Redeemed is the third book in the “Guardians of the Targe” trilogy... and my first by Laurin Wittig. Even though I haven’t read the first two books, I can say it’s a great read and so much so, that I’ve one-clicked the other two books. The book is also well-written and the characters well fleshed out, with an interesting plot – which is always something that will attract my interest and, in this case, it’s a definite page turner.

In short, Highlander Redeemed is mostly the story of Scotia and Duncan. The heroine, Scotia MacAlpin, is an 18-year-old headstrong young lady and she’s very impulsive. In fact, she’s a danger to herself as well as to the members of her clan and is shunned by almost everyone because of this. Duncan of Dunlairig, the hero, has been told to look after her and make sure she’s not doing anything to endanger others. Sparks fly between them and slowly they get to care for one another. Both are believable characters.

At times, I simply wanted to take Scotia to a woodshed and warm her backside. Boy, I’ve rarely seen a young lady so stubborn! But, it’s this same stubbornness trait that makes her grow and turn into a force to be reckoned with and allows her to find her own destiny. Now, I’m looking forward to read the first two books in the series and meet the other characters I’ve met in Highlander Redeemed.

[Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" · Rating 2 out of 5]

I HATED SCOTIA THE HEROINE OF THE STORY!!

I Hated Scotia MacAlphin the Supposedly heroine of bk.3 Highlander Redeemed. There was noting redeemable about Scotia. I was hoping the English would kill her. She is one of the worst lead characters in a series that I have ever read. Scotia is 18 years old. She act like a child going through the terrible two's. She had caused the death of her Clansmen, she spoiled, reckless, unteachable, stubborn, mean, promiscuous like floozie. Scotia ruined the entire story for me. I only finished becasue I wanted Rowan and Jeanetter and the MacAlphin Clan to defeat King Edward. Duncan was crazy to even love this idiot of a girl, with noting but revenge on her mind. She was better served staying with her lover Conall MacGregor who we also, meet in bk1 and returns in bk2. I really felt sorry for Duncan. I gave Highlander Redeemed 2 stars instead of 1 star becasue I like all the other characters and the story behind The Highland Targe and its Guardians. When will authors learn you have to like the lead characters? By the time you get to anything close to good about Scotia your nearly at the end of the story!!

[Shauni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy

In Highlander Redeemed, Lauren Wittig finishes her Guardians of the Targe trilogy (although allowing for author privilege there could always be more coming. Plans can always change). I am sorry to tell you that while I reviewed book 1, Highlander Betrayed, I did miss book two. Which had some pertinent information but Ms. Wittig writes Highlander Redeemed in such a way that the details are filled in without being boring or redundant.

Hidden deep in the rugged Scottish Highlands lies the Highland Targe, an ancient relic guarded for centuries by clan MacAlpin. It is said the Targe can shield the heart of the Highlands from invaders and now, as part of his plan to crush the Scottish rebellion, the English king wants the Targe for himself .

Scotia MacAlpin, was the precious child, or rather precocious, adored and tolerated amongst her clan. No one really had high expectations for her except to be a little bit wild. They would roll their eyes and smile when she pulled off some prank. No expectations were ever made.. Until her actions caused calamity and a clan member died. Suddenly she was persona non gratta. Shunned by the very clan who had adored her, her entire life. Scotia was barely able to deal with the guilt and anger of what has happened and the entire clan laid the blame at her feet. Resentment just continues to build as her sister and cousin both have found purpose and mates. Scotia just wants revenge and has an idea of just how she is going to go about it.

Duncan of Dunlairig has always been the one who stood by Scotia's side so when a new clan chief has been appointed, Duncan finding himself moved around in the hierarchy of the clan is somewhat dismayed to go from respected warrior to babysitter. It's his job to keep Scotia out of trouble. And his way of doing it? Teach her those warrior skills she so desires.. Not fall head over heels for the girl.

Let me start off with this is a well written book about Scottish history and the mystery that is Scotland against the pure greed of Edward I era in England. He wants to conquer Scotland and we all know Scotland didn't take conquering well.

BUT.. it made me very angry. The way Scotia was treated by her clan was beyond enough. Honestly I would have lashed out at all of them as well. Running to escape them, they were horrid. Shunning a young girl for acting the way she has always acted. The way they encouraged for years.. hmmm. And it wasn't just family it was the entire clan. They wouldn't speak to her unless they were reprimanding her. They didn't ask her for help, they treated her like slave labor. Then when suddenly there might be a purpose for Scotia, they demanded her to be something.. to use her gifts for their benefit without any thought to what they had done to her for years. I hated that. Enough that it over rode what was truly good about this book.

Duncan and Scotia had a connection and it was beautiful. Of course there were conflicts between the two of them but they were willing to work together to grow into a strong unit. Even before passion took over. This could have been a powerful story but the secondary characters, yeah wanted to smack them. Especially the two couples from the first two books. They got their happy ending amidst conflict but Scotia was to be treated like a broken toy.. used but tossed away until they needed her again.

It's sad really, even writing this review my anger returns. But, I would like to point out that this is book that evoked a reaction. It caused passionate feelings and yes anger and that's ok. Not all books do that. Some are just good books that you enjoy and forget about. I am not going to be forgetting this book for a long time. And that is one of the true gifts of an author.. make a mark. Which is why with all my anger issues I still gave this book 4 stars

That being said.. This story is full of myth and magic.. what the Scottish Highlands continue to stand for, at least in my mind.

So good or bad? That's for you to decide.

Shauni


This review is based on the ARC of Highlander Redeemed, provided by netgalley and is scheduled to be released on May 12, 2015

[Ashley E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highlander Redeemed was a nice wrap-up to the story of the Targe and the women whose destiny it is to use it. All the secrets of the Targe and its history finally come out in bits and pieces over the course of this final book.

This final book focuses on Scotia, with her emerging gift of knowing, and Duncan, the man who has been trying to keep her out of trouble since they were both children. Scotia is difficult to like at first--and she's supposed to be. At the beginning of the book, she's struggling with trying to figure out how to grow up in a world that has been tipped on its head. She's selfish and headstrong and in denial about far too many things, but that just makes seeing her journey toward self-realization and acceptance more interesting.

Duncan was a bit too perfect of a hero in some ways. He almost never seemed to misstep in regards to Scotia, even when she is being a brat or acting spoiled. It would have been nice to see that he was flawed as well, but the romance was still enjoyable.

The one thing that bugged me off and on was the rational/emotional dichotomy. It's not surprising. The narrative that rationality is "better" that emotion, especially in conflict, is a prevalent one, but it's something that I feel hyper-aware of lately and it annoyed me from time to time when seeing it in this book. But it's not something that most people would notice, I don't think.

Overall, this is a satisfying conclusion to an adventurous romance series, and I recommend it!

[I received this book for free through First Reads and was not required to write a positive or any other type of review. All opinions stated herein are solely my own.]

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall: 5 Narration: 5 Story: 5


I had a toss-up decision with this title, read the ARC or listen to the audio – I chose Audio for my introduction to this series. Highlander Redeemed is the third title in the Guardians of the Targe series from Laurin Wittig, and brings the series to a close.

I love my Scottish-based historical stories: Scotland and her people are as diverse and tough as the landscape, and both set neatly on a deep vein of otherworldliness and tradition. The Highland Targe is a relic stone, said to shield the Scottish heart from invaders. Much like other nods to history, the Targe, for me, felt similar to the Stone of Scone, thought to be a provender of destiny and spent several years below the seat of the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey. But, I digress. The Targe has been guarded for centuries by the MacAlpin Clan, and this story is set in the time of Edward I (Longshanks) who, after conquering Wales and bringing it to heel under English rule had set his sights on Scotland.

Scotia starts this story as the outcast: Wittig explains that Scotia’s impulsive nature and anger for the English led her on a foolish quest to battle, and the clan is now bearing the brunt of the retaliation. In many ways, I felt badly for her: ostracizing her from the life, petting and companionship is not easy when that is the only life you know. But, her anger, stubbornness and tendency to lash out just made her petulant. Determined to do ‘something’ her goals were no more solidly thought through than fog, but her relentless determination to work on her fighting skills, however badly at first, was commendable.

Duncan had a solid position in the clan as a respected warrior and expected to continue in his favored position serving the new chief, Nichola, but as one who always was championing Scotia as a young girl, when her fortunes in the clan fell, so did his. From warrior to babysitter, Duncan enjoys Scotia, even when her brashness overtook her good sense. As the daughter of the last chief and cousin to the current Lady Guardian, her position as a young child was solid. But to be relegated to broken toy, good only for scolding and the most menial tasks, with her downfall, being tasked with finding her, yet again, after she disappeared into the forest is for him, a thankless task.

Yet, these two manage to cleave to one another for support, friendship, encouragement, training and eventually love. Duncan is surprised by Scotia’s improvement in handling herself in battle, and her ability to quickly learn and master the new skills he is teaching her. He’s the first to realize that she is bored and undirected: with everyone treating her as a child and expecting little from her, she has yet to find her own purpose or reason to grow. He bargains with her – dedicate herself to learning and training, and he will petition for her inclusion with the warriors tasked to protecting the clan.

Scotia’s growth is a hard-fought battle: she desperately wants to ‘do something’ to prove herself to the clan, but she is still chafing against the ill-treatment. Duncan is a bit of a martinet with her training, but each skill she masters, he sees more promise and change in her. Slowly, they stop battling one another and learn to come together to better strengthen their own chances against the naysayers and trouble, and their love and passion starts to grow.
From a throw-away girl to the potential of her assuming the guardianship and becoming a useful member TO the clan, rather than a solidly accepted member that has more than atoned for mistakes and mishaps, the path of Scotia is a rocky one. And the clan did not come off very positively in regards to their attitude or treatment of her. But, she is, above all, determined to take her rightful place in the clan and aid in the clan’s business, and Duncan with his stalwart support and love is by her side.

Narration for this story is provided by Phil Gigante, my first introduction to his work. I have to say that he quickly moved up the ranks for me, from unknown to near the top of my “read the phonebook list and make it compelling’ list. Scottish accents are solid without becoming hard to understand, slight variations in delivery and emphasis of words give each character a slightly different patois. Women’s voices are pitched slightly higher, with a touch of breathy push for Scotia that doesn’t trip over the edge into caricature. Suspense, frustration, anger and even insecurities are presented with aplomb, never overshadowing the written words, simply enhancing the emotional impact for the listener. Small insets of music are added to the story in places that solidify the sense of place and time, bringing an otherworldliness to the tale.

While not a traditional historic romance, the story is solidly character driven and laden with historic elements, action and conflict that will keep you engaged and hanging on every word. The romance is a gradual one: more real for the steady pacing as both Duncan and Scotia learn to see one another’s hearts and know their true desires, as it should be.

I received an AudioBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[M'lou Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Consistently solid trilogy

This 3rd book of a trilogy was just as enjoyable as the first two. I read all three back-to-back, something I can't always do. Though the characters each stand alone well, the storyline is successful in segueing and progressing continuously.

[Trina Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final sister to set the protectors strong.

The final thread that put the strength into the MacAlpins as the savings of the highlander from England's greed full of action, love and forgiveness.

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won a copy of this book during a Goodreads giveaway. I am under no obligation to leave a review or rating and do so voluntarily. So that others may also enjoy this book, I am paying it forward by donating it to my local library.

[Bobbie chu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!!

I absolutely loved this series! You can’t help but get lost in the characters and their stories! Plus the reader of this series is excellent in the audiobooks! Download and enjoy. I highly recommend them!

[Tammy Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in the series and all were great.

[Katy2.0 · Rating 5 out of 5]

End of the Trilogy

A nice conclusion to the trilogy. Although I was surprised to find that Malcolm from the Inverness lowlands was this trilogy in the capacity that was.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highlander Redeemed by Lauren Wittig is a 2015 Montlake publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this Scottish historical novel featuring young Scotia MacAlpin, a young lady now outcast by her family and clan. The combination of adventure, paranormal elements, and romance brings us a tale of intrigue that could lead our young heroine to not only redeem herself, but to reach heights she never dreamed possible.

When the defiant Scotia disobeys her father's direct order and puts herself in grave peril, a young man comes to her rescue and dies as a result. Now, Scotia is being blamed for her careless actions and is reminded daily of her mistake. But, despite the constant reminder she cost a young man his life, she continues to defy orders by sneaking away from camp, training herself to become a guardian in order achieve vengeance for the deaths caused by the English.

When it becomes obvious Scotia can not be tamed by the women in the camp, Duncan is assigned to keep tabs on her. When he realizes she intends to become a warrior, he decides the best thing for all concerned is to take her under his wing and train her properly. As a result the two discover Scotia has the gift of “knowing”.

Scotia is one proud, confident, and defiant young lady. At times she takes that act to the extreme and becomes haughty and defensive. However, she is much smarter than people give her credit for and at times she pricks Duncan's ego by showing him up. Scotia has a big problem with taking orders and going through the correct chain of command. This rogue behavior nearly cost her everything, but in the end she learns some valuable lessons. She is just one of those stubborn people who has to learn the hard way. But, she also taught her people some lessons as well. It just might be possible she is born to be a leader, a guardian, and a warrior and her kin may have

But, as the quest continues to take back their home and land, Duncan and Scotia also discover they have an unmistakable bond that becomes passionate as they spend more time together. But, will Scotia's actions drive a wedge between them forever or will they both learn to give and take to make the relationship work?

I didn't always like Scotia's stubbornness, and I didn't always like Duncan's refusal to bend just a tiny bit. The lesson was a difficult one for both parties, but in the end they realize the wisdom the other brought to the table. The paranormal elements add a magical quality to the story and helps Scotia discover what her true role will be in the future. The action is paced evenly, giving the character and the story plenty of time to develop. The romance is secondary to the story which some might find disappointing, just a little, but I for one do not mind the focus being on the plot, and letting the romance simmer in the background for a while. I thought Scotia and Duncan had some things they needed to work out first and a lot of growing up to do before the relationship took a more serious turn. However, the love they have for one another literally jumps off the page, even when it looks like all is lost, I knew this couple was destined for greatness.

I wasn't sure how I would take to this one since Scotia was a girl in her teens and I was afraid the novel would have a YA feel to it. It marginally have that quality, but mostly this is an adult novel and I found it highly entertaining. 4.5 stars

[Monica · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is one of the most pathetic story in the series..
The heroine, she makes a fool of herself and then she tries to redeem too.. But she still lacks sensibility...she might be courageous, strong, but toooo willful for her role and arrogant, nonetheless.
The hero is patient and is good..plus has the strength to handle the heroine...
Her being the guardian, seems like there is a chocolate and because others cry when one gets, its distributed between them..
So yeah that really wasn't convincing..
She was shown the most powerful after Rowan... Joseline, the most expected guardian..her powers have been proved most useless once, for they didnt help..
So all in all..the graph keeps falling in the series form the first book to last..

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Scotia is one of those teens who is always finding herself in trouble, mainly because she doesn't listen to instructions. Her actions of not listening has already caused one person to be killed on her account. At this point, her clan has pretty much turned their back on her and treat her like a child. Duncan is tasked with keeping an eye on her but soon he finds a better way to keep Scotia close. He agrees to train her to be a warrior in exchange that when the time comes to fight the English, she will fight with the other warriors if she's ready.

Highland Redeemed is the third and final book in the Guardians of the Targe but it can also be read as a stand-alone. I have not read the previous two books but I had no problem catching up to the story. Now I'm sure that this book would have been more enjoyable had I read the previous two because it seems like we'd get more information about the Guardians of the Targe, and what the targe actually is, as well as reading about how unmanageable Scotia is. However, the author catches us up to what's been going on and I didn't really feel like I was missing too much.

I really liked that this series seems to focus on the strength and power of women. The guardians are all women. They are the most powerful of the clan. They are protected before others and are the clan's biggest weapon against enemies because they can control the targe and use it's power. Usually it's the men who are revered and all powerful warriors but that is not the case with this series.

Scotia was a hard character to relate to though. The author didn't make her appear to be a troublesome 18 year old, she actually sounded more like a troublesome toddler. Not only did she disobey orders but she was unruly, scheming, and couldn't take responsibility for her actions. She could not see that her insubordinate ways were causing others to be put in unnecessary harms way. Which ultimately lead to a young man's death when he followed her into a enemy territory to keep her safe. However, she refuses to see that as her fault. She figures that he didn't have to follow her and his following was of his own doing, it had nothing to do with her. She didn't ask him to follow her and she didn't pull the knife and kill him, that was the English man's doing. Yeah, Scotia was a hard character to feel sympathetic to. I understand this is a coming of age, self-growth story for Scotia but I felt like there was no gradual change with her. She just went from being obnoxious and set in her ways to being all zen-like and mature.

This seems like a great storyline between the three books. One of the previous main characters was apparently a spy for the English who decided to switch sides and become the clan's chief. Even though I know how the whole story ends, I think I will go back and read the first two books.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book free from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This is the third book in a series. I had not read the first two books before I read this one. However, although in the beginning I felt a little lost, the author gives a lot of background information. So eventually I felt very comfortable about the story and was able to get into the story.

This book is about a clan that had fought the English and were unable to return to their home. At the moment they were living in a cave. The main character in the book is Scotia MacAlpin. The first book was about her cousin who found out that she was to become the Guardian of the Targe. The second book is about Scotia sister who became the second Guardian of the Targe.

Scotia is only 18 but she is a trial to her family. Evidently she had tried to fight the English on her own without telling anyone. A clan member had followed her to make sure she was alright. However, the clan member was murdered and Scotia had been kidnapped and almost died herself.

This book starts when everyone is shunning her for that incident that had ended up killing an innocent member of the clan. Duncan of Dunlairig has looked out for Scotia almost all of her life. He is also upset with her. In spite of all of this, Scotia still wants to fight the English because, beside killing the clan member and kidnapping her, they had also killed her mother.

This is an excellent story about how Scotia struggles to follow her original plan and how Duncan keeps watching her and tries to help Scotia accept her responsibility for her actions. Of course Scotia and Duncan fall in love.

There is a lot of action in this book. I was a little frustrated with Scotia who is stubborn and refuses to understand reality. I loved Duncan because he is kind, sympathetic, understanding and refuses to back down. I truthfully do not understand why he doesn't give up on Scotia.

I do wish that I had read the first two books ahead of this, because even if I do go back, I will know all the endings ahead of time. However, I would like to find out how Scotia's sister and cousin became Guardians of the Targe and how they fell in love. But I am mostly interested in how Scotia and Duncan's was before this book. I would also like to read about the incident with Scotia and how this clan clan lost their home.

I recommend this book but I suggest you read the three books in order. I believe you will enjoy the book better.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCITING HIGHLAND ADVENTURE


I consider Lauren Witting one of the best authors writing today, and she is a rare treasure. Highlander Redeemed continues Guardians of the Targe series. Open up the book, begin with page one, and escape on an adventure you will not soon forget.


The heroine, Scotia MacAlpin, at 18 is no stranger to trouble with her latest incident forcing her clan into battle and resulting into her exile from the clan. She wants to eventually become a Guardian of the Targe, a mystical stone which bestows powers to the clan who possess it. She has the idea, as she is tired of standing in the shadow of her sister, of destroying the army determined to capture the relic her clan protects. Scotia has been reckless as well as restless throughout her life.
Duncan of Dunlairig, while looking out for her throughout her life, recognizes the strength in her. When she becomes outcast, he is as well as he must still look after her. It is up to him to find her when she takes off on her own, doesn’t listen to anyone, and becomes headstrong. Helping her overcome her boredom he encourages her training and helps her become the warrior she wants to be. She discovers through her hard work and dedication to training that she has the gift of knowing. Can she use this to help destroy the enemy? She will soon be thankful for her skills as she will soon have to help the one who taught her.
Duncan and Scotia bond, although it doesn’t come easy with her temperament, through friendship and grow closer through training and spending so much time together. She must fight her way back into the clan and prove she is worth being part of the clan.

I highly recommend this and any other book written by Lauren Wittig. Her characters are strong, passionate, and each book of the Guardians of the Targe are fast paced page turning don’t want to lay down books. Anyone who enjoys passionate romance will enjoy this author.

[Bambi Unbridled · Rating 4 out of 5]

I kept putting off the reading of this book because I hated Scotia in the first two books. She was willful, stubborn, self-centered, reckless - you name a bad characteristic for a female heroine and she was it. So because I have encountered quite a few annoying heroines lately, I was not looking forward to another one. So I am quite surprised that I ended up rating this book the highest of the series. (Part of the reason could be that I listened to the first two books in audio and I just did not care for the narrator.)

So this installment of the Targe series focuses on the youngest sister, Scotia Macalpin, and Duncan of Dunlairig. In the previous books, Scotia was either trysting or getting into major trouble to the point of costing a clansmen his life. I can't say that she was improved any in this book - she still refuses to accept responsibility for her actions. All she can think about is vengeance and fighting the English. I did feel bad for Scotia sometimes when her own clan shunned her, but I can't say she didn't deserve it. Duncan has always had the patience of a saint when it came to Scotia, but he has finally had it with her. However Duncan soon finds himself assigned to follow Scotia everywhere to make sure she stays out of trouble. I love the way that Duncan decides to distract her, and their training sessions together were nicely detailed and well-written.

The plot really comes to a head in this book, so we have more supernatural activity, more strategy and more fighting. I enjoyed all the action and plotting, which helped take the focus off Scotia's spoiled behavior. This was a nice culmination of the series, and I think I would have enjoyed it even more if I had read all the books instead of going the audio route. 4 stars / 2 flames.

I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[MyChienneLit · Rating 4 out of 5]

After unwittingly leading a young man to his death in defense of her and her clan into battle to rescue her from the English because she defied an order from her clan chief, troubled lass Scotia MacAlpin now finds herself openly shunned. Still grieving her mother's murder at the hands of the English and suffering her own trauma from being held their hostage, Scotia is hell-bent on vengeance. Always her champion, clansman Duncan is now her only friend and assigned minder, charged with keeping Scotia from causing more trouble for the clan and herself. In exchange for her cooperation, Duncan begins training her in the ways of warriors. But while her body is truly gifted and her quick mind able to grasp tactics and strategy, is her fiery temperament capable of learning the discipline necessary to become a warrior? What will the rest of the clan think when they find out the outcast--a female--is training with weapons?

This is the best of the Guardians of the Targe novels. Over the course of the three books, we see Scotia's character evolve fully from bratty, self-centered girl, to loving, giving adult. Her pain from losing her mother and the isolation she feels from being excluded by Jeanette and Rowan's close friendship and then their role as Guardians, as well as by her clan's shunning is palpable. If you skip the first two books in this series, Scotia probably seems like a spoiled child and not the complex, flawed and hurting young woman a more thorough look at her reveals her to be. Duncan, while clearly besotted with Scotia, develops over the three novels into the guiding hand she needs to become her best self, but she also brings out the best in him. Book three is a great ending for this series, but it probably wouldn't work nearly as well as a stand-alone novel.

[Kasey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Scotia was my least favorite of the three women. In the first book I could overlook her behavior as that of an immature young woman. It didn't make her my favorite, bit it also didn't really make me dislike her either. By the second book her behavior and rash decisions became more of a problem for me. Regardless of that I had high hopes for this book. Scotia had lost so much and made some mistakes with serious consequences. Life. Would have forced her to grow up. This was the Scotia I was eager to meet. The woman carved from pain and and harsh reality. Ready to take on the world. Become a warrior. That part had me so interested. She was to be nothing like her "sisters". Unfortunately we start this book with Scotia not seeing anything wrong with her actions. She's angry and can't see past her own issues. Regardless of my dislike of this Scotia I continue. The author has given her room to grow. Unfortunately for me the Scotia I dislike continues for the majority of the book. I have to admit I began skimming through part of the story. I really didn't like this woman and I hated being in her head. I felt so sorry for Duncan. The man tried and tried to explain things to Scotia. How her choices affected those around her. The cost of her mistakes. Her responsibility if she were to become a warrior. It was like beating his head against a wall. By this point I wasn't even sure why the man loved her. The good news is Scotia eventually became the woman I had wanted to see in this book, but for me it was far to late in the story. Being in her head while she was being so immature and making stupid decisions was just to trying for me.

[T Counce · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Karen Hawkins has me hooked on Regency Romance and many things Scottish, when I first bought the first book "Highlander Betrayed", I was thinking it was of the same time period, but discovered I was wrong and I was a little leery of starting in another Scottish time frame, but Laurin got me passed that...from then on I became hooked on Scottish Castles and clans. I had an entire summer full of distractions that kept me from reading the second book "Highlander Avenged" until a couple of days ago, and while had other things to do, while doing those things my mind was continually on the book and wanting to get back to it. Last night I finished it and read Chapter one of "Highlander Redeemed" before going to sleep with my Kindle in my hand (I was exhausted but didn't want to put it down). This morning I took my Kindle down to breakfast on a hard chair and didn't move until I finished it, forgetting the hard chair, that I was still in the kitchen, or even to drink my first cup of coffee of the day (to give you a better understanding of this...I never stay downstairs longer than an hour or two, preferring the solace of my rented room upstairs, and by 7:30 pm I've usually drank a whole pot of coffee). I did not put the book down until it was finished. I cried for Scotia when she finally understood the havoc her misplaced guilt had caused through her follies, I cried when she thought she had been betrayed, I cried when she thought that she had lost her love, I cried when she got him back...If you haven't read this series...I strongly recommend that you do.

[Yvonne Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a ARC to read and review. I rate it Five Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. Three Flames. This is my first book of Laurin Wittig I have read but it won't be my last. What I love about her book is the characters they are amazing, compelling, lovable, strong and interesting. The pace of the book has a good flow. The dialogue is fabulous and well written.

Scotia MacAlpin is eighteen and she isn't a stranger of trouble some may say it's her name. She feels she has been in her sister's shadow long enough and wants to be a warrior. She wants vengeance for the deaths.
Duncan of Dunlairg has watch over her and he intends to teach her to be a warrior and keep her out of much trouble as he can. Scotia test his patience when she disobeys him.But they wants keep the highland relic from the English King. Even if it takes fighting the army to do it.

This is the third book in Guardians of the Targe series. I Haven't read the first two books but reading this book makes me want to read the previous two books. I like that Laurin explains things so if this is the first book you can pick up on things. I had no idea what happened to Scotia in the past. But is hard to like Scotia's stubbornness. I like that it shows her changing and getting better. I enjoyed reading this book so much I will read the first two books also.

This is a Great Book. I recommend this book to Everyone who enjoy reading a Great Book.

[Eileen Dandashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was well pleased to get back to this series. Scotia in the last two books was extremely complex and very much the spoiled child. Her emotions are volatile, so in this story when she wants to take on the English single-handedly, it is who we know her to be, extremely impulsive with little thought to the consequences. She struggles most with who she is not. She is not a Guardian. Her sister and cousin are. She has much to realize in her young life and Duncan is somewhat of a catalyst for the learning.

This is a sweet Scottish love story with a very bumpy beginning. I enjoyed how Duncan slowly comes to the realization his heart had known, but his head didn’t. He had feelings for Scotia. He searches for a way to reach Scotia—she was always full of anger with the need for revenge utmost in her mind. When he sees her practicing in the forest the moves taught to the young lads, he had found the way to reach her. He promises to teach her to be a warrior and she could fight with them when he feels she’s ready. The time together and working toward Scotia’s goal gains respect and admiration from Duncan--something Scotia had not had with her clan. I enjoyed being a fly on the wall watching her grow into a mature, responsible individual. With that maturity comes responsibility and the respect from her clan.

Nicely done, Ms. Wittig. I enjoyed my trip back to the MacAlpins of Dunlairig.

[Jan Goodard · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you are waiting for the last books in a series to be published you can not help but wonder if the wait was worth it. Will the final book really wrap it up, answer any leftover questions and still be entertaining? This final book in the Guardians of the Highland Targe series does not disappoint. It smoothly wrapped up the series and was thoroughly entertaining in the process.
Although you could read this book without having read the others, I would say don't do it. To get the most pleasure from this series, read all of them and in order. It is most definitely with your time and input. From the others books you know Duncan has special feelings for Scotia whether he acknowledges it or not. You also know Scotia is spoiled, willful, and often reacts without thinking first. She refuses to accept responsibility for the death of a clan member, looking only for revenge against the invading English. Duncan is assigned to keep her out of trouble, quite a task. He finds her practicing like a warrior and offers to train her hoping in the process she will learn some humility. She excells in the physical exercises but refuses to give up her revenge. As they spend time together feeling grow but the English are close. To find out how and why Scotia finally grows up, how the Guardians reach their full power, and of course the resolution to Scotia ans Duncan's romance, you must read the book. This definitely a must read for lovers of Scot historical romance.