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Highland Bodyguards #4
Claimed by the Bounty Hunter
To protect his cover, he must claim her as his captive. To save her own life, she must claim his heart…
A gruesome siege destroys Kirk MacLeod’s faith in the Scottish fight for independence. Robert the Bruce promises to release Kirk from his service if he completes one final assignment: infiltrate the deadly bounty hunter league that has thwarted the Scots’ cause for years. Kirk plays the part of a cold-blooded mercenary almost too well. But when the league orders him to kidnap a beautiful Englishwoman, he must choose between following his mission and following his heart.
Lillian Fitzhugh’s late husband leaves her with a powerful secret—one that has men willing to capture and kill for it. When she’s taken by Kirk, a ruthless Highland bounty hunter set to deliver her to the men who murdered her husband, she fears all is lost. But she senses that beneath her captor’s hardened exterior lies the heart of an honorable man. To gain her freedom, she must unravel the truth of Kirk’s identity. In doing so, she ensnares them both in a dangerous web of desire and secrets that may cost them both their lives.
A gruesome siege destroys Kirk MacLeod’s faith in the Scottish fight for independence. Robert the Bruce promises to release Kirk from his service if he completes one final assignment: infiltrate the deadly bounty hunter league that has thwarted the Scots’ cause for years. Kirk plays the part of a cold-blooded mercenary almost too well. But when the league orders him to kidnap a beautiful Englishwoman, he must choose between following his mission and following his heart.
Lillian Fitzhugh’s late husband leaves her with a powerful secret—one that has men willing to capture and kill for it. When she’s taken by Kirk, a ruthless Highland bounty hunter set to deliver her to the men who murdered her husband, she fears all is lost. But she senses that beneath her captor’s hardened exterior lies the heart of an honorable man. To gain her freedom, she must unravel the truth of Kirk’s identity. In doing so, she ensnares them both in a dangerous web of desire and secrets that may cost them both their lives.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2017
512 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Emma Prince
54 books273 followersUSA Today bestselling author Emma Prince whisks readers away to another time and place with her steamy historical romances—where the passion is legendary, the adventure never ends, and the happily ever afters are guaranteed!
After several years as a college English instructor (where she savored her “fun books”—usually historical romances—on the side), Emma turned her love of page-turning, richly historical stories into a career. She lives in drizzly Seattle with her husband, their daughter (the wee lass) and a crazy cat named Oban (after the town in Scotland or the whisky made there, depending on who you ask).
Emma loves connecting with readers! Sign up for her newsletter at www.EmmaPrinceBooks.com and be the first to hear about the latest book news, flash sales, giveaways, and more. Plus, receive a free historical romance story when you join.
Follow Emma on Amazon and BookBub for alerts on sales and new releases. Or join her on Facebook for loads of fun at: www.facebook.com/EmmaPrinceBooks.
After several years as a college English instructor (where she savored her “fun books”—usually historical romances—on the side), Emma turned her love of page-turning, richly historical stories into a career. She lives in drizzly Seattle with her husband, their daughter (the wee lass) and a crazy cat named Oban (after the town in Scotland or the whisky made there, depending on who you ask).
Emma loves connecting with readers! Sign up for her newsletter at www.EmmaPrinceBooks.com and be the first to hear about the latest book news, flash sales, giveaways, and more. Plus, receive a free historical romance story when you join.
Follow Emma on Amazon and BookBub for alerts on sales and new releases. Or join her on Facebook for loads of fun at: www.facebook.com/EmmaPrinceBooks.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 24, 2017
This is one of those books where I suspect the author is just stuck in a rut and finishing a series she started out of necessity, instead of actually enjoying writing.
Let's talk it out. WARNING: This review does contain like, a ton of spoilers.
Kirk Macleod (who we met in the 2nd of this series, Heart's Thief) is back and... basically the same as every other hero in this series. He's huge! He has piercing eyes! He is gruff and cold sometimes, but also really, really thinks the heroine is hot!
Can we talk about size and proportions in, not just this series, but ALL books set in the Highlands? Do you know how actual Highland people are shaped?
That's right, like all other human beings. That is to say, even among "warriors", there was variety.
All of these dudes being super tall, super lean and muscular, and super broad shouldered is so bewildering to me. Don't get me started on how all the heroines are "tiny" and "delicate."
Anyway. Kirk Macleod, in order to GTFO of the Bruce's army after a terrible, no-good time in Ireland, agrees to try to infiltrate the Order of the Terrible Name (that network of "assassins"/spies/mercenaries/bounty hunters that inexplicably employed Sabine in Heart's Thief, the worst spy of all time). At the same time, Lillian is taken into protection by the Bodyguard guys (Will Sinclair, who we met before but I seriously cannot remember which book: like every other man ever described, he's big and brawny and sweet) after her husband is kidnapped by mercenaries and tortured to death. Ok, cool. That's... a story.
Kirk, after finding the Order and becoming a spy, is offered a mission by the Order to REMOVE Lillian from said protection of the Bodyguard Corps or whatever they are; he's a bounty hunter now, so that's what he does. People pay him to kidnap other people and since they already killed Lillian's husband, it's like, why not go for the chick? Can you see where this is going? He's on a secret mission for the Bruce to take down the Order of the Dumb Dumbs, but in order to do that, he has to take this mission that goes directly against a DIFFERENT order of the Bruce's. So, Kirk is absolutely screwed no matter what happens; it's a lose-lose situation.
After Kirk decides to merk poor Will Sinclair's eyeball (RIP what was probably a "piercing blue" eyeball, I can't wait until the book about him #RIPeyeball) as a way to incapacitate the poor guy, he absconds with Lillian. They then fall into Emma Prince's favorite tried-and-true method: sexual tension on a long ass journey. It's boring and mostly just descriptions of Lillian not being used to riding a horse for so long and her waxing poetic about her boring dead husband (#RIPBoringAssRichard), alongside Kirk trying to be mean despite really, really wanting to get some of that sweet, sweet Lillian.
Eventually, after Kirk makes a series of frankly bizarre decisions (including taking Lillian to a TOWN to try to get a message to Colin, where she escapes and inevitably meets, like, the town rapists or whatever, as well as then meeting up with Colin at night beside a lake, during which the other Scottish guy from the Order of the Dragon shows up), they have perhaps the most bizarre frottage scene I've ever read in any romance novel ever. And I've read some absolutely terrible romance novels.
Afterward, Kirk gets a scared and decides to be a massive dick, during which Lillian shows off some excellent psychology skills (#liberalartsdegree?). He then tells her basically everything except the part about how he is actually a double agent and working for the Bruce. Seriously, Kirk, I honestly don't get your deal; she's gonna be tortured to death, so just like, tell her? Stop it.
They continue on the long ass journey to Mordor or wherever they're going. Lillian vows to escape, once and for all, which went really well the first two times, so you know what girl? Go for it. You do you. They stop at an abandoned abbey and because Kirk is feeling particularly emo, Lillian is able to escape for like 15 minutes or so by saying she has a "women's issue." (Women in this books NEVER have their period. They conveniently get pregnant before that has to come up. #cleverwriters.)
She runs through the dark, stormy wilderness until, of course, Kirk catches up with her. She then jumps in a river because Lillian is an excellent strategist. (I'm not kidding. Lillian is praised by lots of people at being a "great strategist" and wins at chess every time. Ok. Sure. The girl who just tobogganed down a hill on her butt and jumped in a river while wearing house slippers is an excellent strategist. Ok. Sure.) Kirk takes her back to the abbey where, instead of doing the sane thing of, I don't know, telling poor, dumb Lillian the truth, he bangs her. Which, like, good for Lillian. Poor dead Richard was apparently not #blessed like the Highland warriors are. #allforKirk
Immediately afterwards, guess who shows up? Literally every other character.
Just kidding, the head of the Order of the Whatevers shows up with the people who bought Lillian. Because Kirk has a plan and Lillian is an "expert strategist", he hands her over to them and she falls into despair because she's like "Wtf? This wasn't in my strategy! I'm an expert!" (No, I won't stop with that joke. It's so good.) He then races back in, kills everyone, and takes her away.
Except, no, then Logan shows up and is like, "dude. What happened?" So Kirk tells him everything and Lillian's like, "Maybe you coulda mentioned the double agent thing earlier?" But whatever, they team up, high five, and take Lillian to the Bruce's camp.
Kirk and Logan then refuse Colin's help of taking down the head of the Order and set out on their own to do so. Because Kirk is also apparently an expert strategist, he only has 7 freaking tiny daggers with him so they have to get into a heavily guarded compound with basically a kitchen knife set. Whatever, don't doubt these beefcakes, they do it! Except Logan got cocky and ends up hostage of the head of the Order. But because Kirk is whip smart (could have fooled me), he manages to distract the head of the order long enough (can you tell I don't remember his name?) and then throws a knife at Logan, which gives him enough time to grab a sword and destroy the baddie.
Congratulations! Logan peaces out to try and go find his sister, which like, good luck with that dude. (Can't wait to read the book about him. I bet he has a tortured past and then finds some tiny woman to frot with by a lake.) Kirk rides back to the Bruce's camp, a lot of talking happens, the Bruce returns. Despite everything basically going tits up while he was gone, the Bruce is surprisingly chill. And then professional strategist Lillian tells them what she actually knows about how to take down Berwick, thanks to the single quote poor dead boring Richard has gotten the entire book. Turns out the Governor of Berwick is, like, a total sympathizer or something. So the Bruce writes that dude a letter and has Berwick within two weeks.
Then, of course, Lillian and Kirk get married, Lillian probably has a whole litter of kids, and they live happily ever after.
Ultimately, this novel just felt so... perfunctory. Like, the forced closeness of the characters, the formulaic hero and heroine, the long, boring ass journey, the internal monologues where we are spoon-fed emotions and tragic backstories and blah blah blah. I don't know if romance novels are getting worse or if I'm getting more cynical, but either way, while I enjoy these novels to a certain extent, I guess what I'm looking for is just a little more. I want romance novels to assume I'm smart enough to understand Lillian's and Kirk's motivations without, essentially, drawing me a map every single chapter. I want romance that is realistic and not just, "he touched me and it sizzled and then we frotted by a lake." I want a plot that's more than just a bunch of riding around on horses and back and forth and fretting about something happening that then is magically fixed by the girl's magic power. I really like Emma Prince; her earlier books are WAY better than this series and honestly, I wish it didn't feel like she was just fulfilling a contract with these formulaic stories.
Let's talk it out. WARNING: This review does contain like, a ton of spoilers.
Kirk Macleod (who we met in the 2nd of this series, Heart's Thief) is back and... basically the same as every other hero in this series. He's huge! He has piercing eyes! He is gruff and cold sometimes, but also really, really thinks the heroine is hot!
Can we talk about size and proportions in, not just this series, but ALL books set in the Highlands? Do you know how actual Highland people are shaped?
That's right, like all other human beings. That is to say, even among "warriors", there was variety.
All of these dudes being super tall, super lean and muscular, and super broad shouldered is so bewildering to me. Don't get me started on how all the heroines are "tiny" and "delicate."
Anyway. Kirk Macleod, in order to GTFO of the Bruce's army after a terrible, no-good time in Ireland, agrees to try to infiltrate the Order of the Terrible Name (that network of "assassins"/spies/mercenaries/bounty hunters that inexplicably employed Sabine in Heart's Thief, the worst spy of all time). At the same time, Lillian is taken into protection by the Bodyguard guys (Will Sinclair, who we met before but I seriously cannot remember which book: like every other man ever described, he's big and brawny and sweet) after her husband is kidnapped by mercenaries and tortured to death. Ok, cool. That's... a story.
Kirk, after finding the Order and becoming a spy, is offered a mission by the Order to REMOVE Lillian from said protection of the Bodyguard Corps or whatever they are; he's a bounty hunter now, so that's what he does. People pay him to kidnap other people and since they already killed Lillian's husband, it's like, why not go for the chick? Can you see where this is going? He's on a secret mission for the Bruce to take down the Order of the Dumb Dumbs, but in order to do that, he has to take this mission that goes directly against a DIFFERENT order of the Bruce's. So, Kirk is absolutely screwed no matter what happens; it's a lose-lose situation.
After Kirk decides to merk poor Will Sinclair's eyeball (RIP what was probably a "piercing blue" eyeball, I can't wait until the book about him #RIPeyeball) as a way to incapacitate the poor guy, he absconds with Lillian. They then fall into Emma Prince's favorite tried-and-true method: sexual tension on a long ass journey. It's boring and mostly just descriptions of Lillian not being used to riding a horse for so long and her waxing poetic about her boring dead husband (#RIPBoringAssRichard), alongside Kirk trying to be mean despite really, really wanting to get some of that sweet, sweet Lillian.
Eventually, after Kirk makes a series of frankly bizarre decisions (including taking Lillian to a TOWN to try to get a message to Colin, where she escapes and inevitably meets, like, the town rapists or whatever, as well as then meeting up with Colin at night beside a lake, during which the other Scottish guy from the Order of the Dragon shows up), they have perhaps the most bizarre frottage scene I've ever read in any romance novel ever. And I've read some absolutely terrible romance novels.
Afterward, Kirk gets a scared and decides to be a massive dick, during which Lillian shows off some excellent psychology skills (#liberalartsdegree?). He then tells her basically everything except the part about how he is actually a double agent and working for the Bruce. Seriously, Kirk, I honestly don't get your deal; she's gonna be tortured to death, so just like, tell her? Stop it.
They continue on the long ass journey to Mordor or wherever they're going. Lillian vows to escape, once and for all, which went really well the first two times, so you know what girl? Go for it. You do you. They stop at an abandoned abbey and because Kirk is feeling particularly emo, Lillian is able to escape for like 15 minutes or so by saying she has a "women's issue." (Women in this books NEVER have their period. They conveniently get pregnant before that has to come up. #cleverwriters.)
She runs through the dark, stormy wilderness until, of course, Kirk catches up with her. She then jumps in a river because Lillian is an excellent strategist. (I'm not kidding. Lillian is praised by lots of people at being a "great strategist" and wins at chess every time. Ok. Sure. The girl who just tobogganed down a hill on her butt and jumped in a river while wearing house slippers is an excellent strategist. Ok. Sure.) Kirk takes her back to the abbey where, instead of doing the sane thing of, I don't know, telling poor, dumb Lillian the truth, he bangs her. Which, like, good for Lillian. Poor dead Richard was apparently not #blessed like the Highland warriors are. #allforKirk
Immediately afterwards, guess who shows up? Literally every other character.
Just kidding, the head of the Order of the Whatevers shows up with the people who bought Lillian. Because Kirk has a plan and Lillian is an "expert strategist", he hands her over to them and she falls into despair because she's like "Wtf? This wasn't in my strategy! I'm an expert!" (No, I won't stop with that joke. It's so good.) He then races back in, kills everyone, and takes her away.
Except, no, then Logan shows up and is like, "dude. What happened?" So Kirk tells him everything and Lillian's like, "Maybe you coulda mentioned the double agent thing earlier?" But whatever, they team up, high five, and take Lillian to the Bruce's camp.
Kirk and Logan then refuse Colin's help of taking down the head of the Order and set out on their own to do so. Because Kirk is also apparently an expert strategist, he only has 7 freaking tiny daggers with him so they have to get into a heavily guarded compound with basically a kitchen knife set. Whatever, don't doubt these beefcakes, they do it! Except Logan got cocky and ends up hostage of the head of the Order. But because Kirk is whip smart (could have fooled me), he manages to distract the head of the order long enough (can you tell I don't remember his name?) and then throws a knife at Logan, which gives him enough time to grab a sword and destroy the baddie.
Congratulations! Logan peaces out to try and go find his sister, which like, good luck with that dude. (Can't wait to read the book about him. I bet he has a tortured past and then finds some tiny woman to frot with by a lake.) Kirk rides back to the Bruce's camp, a lot of talking happens, the Bruce returns. Despite everything basically going tits up while he was gone, the Bruce is surprisingly chill. And then professional strategist Lillian tells them what she actually knows about how to take down Berwick, thanks to the single quote poor dead boring Richard has gotten the entire book. Turns out the Governor of Berwick is, like, a total sympathizer or something. So the Bruce writes that dude a letter and has Berwick within two weeks.
Then, of course, Lillian and Kirk get married, Lillian probably has a whole litter of kids, and they live happily ever after.
Ultimately, this novel just felt so... perfunctory. Like, the forced closeness of the characters, the formulaic hero and heroine, the long, boring ass journey, the internal monologues where we are spoon-fed emotions and tragic backstories and blah blah blah. I don't know if romance novels are getting worse or if I'm getting more cynical, but either way, while I enjoy these novels to a certain extent, I guess what I'm looking for is just a little more. I want romance novels to assume I'm smart enough to understand Lillian's and Kirk's motivations without, essentially, drawing me a map every single chapter. I want romance that is realistic and not just, "he touched me and it sizzled and then we frotted by a lake." I want a plot that's more than just a bunch of riding around on horses and back and forth and fretting about something happening that then is magically fixed by the girl's magic power. I really like Emma Prince; her earlier books are WAY better than this series and honestly, I wish it didn't feel like she was just fulfilling a contract with these formulaic stories.
April 5, 2017
Claimed by the Bounty Hunter by Emma Prince is an amazing addition to the "Highland Bodyguards" series. While book 4, it can be read as a stand alone. I would strongly recommend adding this series to your reading experience. It is an outstanding series, to me
Well written, fast paced, action packed, with inner turmoil, heart-pounding fight scenes, and a trek across Scotland, makes for a fabulous Scottish Historical Romance. The romance is a definite plus, as well as, the struggle to find one's inner self, again, adds much emotional baggage, as Kirk MacLeod fights to regain his faith in Robert the Bruce's fight to free Scotland. He lost his faith, due to a gruesome seige in Ireland, while in service to Robert the Bruce's, brother, Edward. By doing this one last deed for the cause, Robert the Bruce, agrees to release Kirk from his service to him and the cause, which, is a dangerous assignment, going undercover within, the ruthless Order, a group of cold-blooded mercenaries, bounty hunters for hire, to find and destroy the head of this ruthless organization, which has been one step ahead if them at every turn. Will Kirk lose himself and become part of this ruthless Order, or can he save himself and Lillian?
Kirk's target, Lillian Fitzhugh, a widow, whose late husband, supposely leaves her with a powerful secret—one that these men are willing to capture, torture and kill to get the information. Which, is what they did to Lillian's husband. Now, Lillian has been captured by this ruthless Highland bounty hunter, but she senses there is more to Kirk then his exterior persona.
Kirk is caught between his duty to King and country, his assignment for the Order, and his feelings for so the brave, and mild mattered, Lillian, who brings a sense of peace to Kirk. Will Kirk and Lillian survive their trek across Scotland to found the own victories? Or lose all to duty? You must read this incredible Scottish Romance to find out the answers. This story has so much to offer readers, it leaves the reader breathless and absolutely enthralled, as they follow Kirk and Lillian's story. The reader is also introduced to a new character, Eric, I so wish to learn more of him and his beloved sister. Ah, yet another story in the intriguing "Highland Bodyguards" series!
Fans of Scottish intrigue, heart-pounding action, historical intrigue, lasses with true strength, and bravery, and a Scottish warrior with much inner turmoil, are sure to enjoy Kirk and Lilluan's story. There is so much to recommend, "Claimed by the Bounty Hunter", to readers, I was glued to the pages from the first page forward.
Powerful, and compelling, with twists and turns and a few surprises and a treasure of a romance. I believe this is my favorite in this mesmerizing series. Simply awe inspiring and breathtaking as Kirk and Lillian make their way across Scotland, to find their HEA.
A definite must read! Ms Prince is a talented author and one of my favorite Scottish romance authors. I would like to thank, Ms. Prince for an excellent job of bringing readers a heart-pounding reading experience, once again!!! Bravo, Emma Prince! !
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
Well written, fast paced, action packed, with inner turmoil, heart-pounding fight scenes, and a trek across Scotland, makes for a fabulous Scottish Historical Romance. The romance is a definite plus, as well as, the struggle to find one's inner self, again, adds much emotional baggage, as Kirk MacLeod fights to regain his faith in Robert the Bruce's fight to free Scotland. He lost his faith, due to a gruesome seige in Ireland, while in service to Robert the Bruce's, brother, Edward. By doing this one last deed for the cause, Robert the Bruce, agrees to release Kirk from his service to him and the cause, which, is a dangerous assignment, going undercover within, the ruthless Order, a group of cold-blooded mercenaries, bounty hunters for hire, to find and destroy the head of this ruthless organization, which has been one step ahead if them at every turn. Will Kirk lose himself and become part of this ruthless Order, or can he save himself and Lillian?
Kirk's target, Lillian Fitzhugh, a widow, whose late husband, supposely leaves her with a powerful secret—one that these men are willing to capture, torture and kill to get the information. Which, is what they did to Lillian's husband. Now, Lillian has been captured by this ruthless Highland bounty hunter, but she senses there is more to Kirk then his exterior persona.
Kirk is caught between his duty to King and country, his assignment for the Order, and his feelings for so the brave, and mild mattered, Lillian, who brings a sense of peace to Kirk. Will Kirk and Lillian survive their trek across Scotland to found the own victories? Or lose all to duty? You must read this incredible Scottish Romance to find out the answers. This story has so much to offer readers, it leaves the reader breathless and absolutely enthralled, as they follow Kirk and Lillian's story. The reader is also introduced to a new character, Eric, I so wish to learn more of him and his beloved sister. Ah, yet another story in the intriguing "Highland Bodyguards" series!
Fans of Scottish intrigue, heart-pounding action, historical intrigue, lasses with true strength, and bravery, and a Scottish warrior with much inner turmoil, are sure to enjoy Kirk and Lilluan's story. There is so much to recommend, "Claimed by the Bounty Hunter", to readers, I was glued to the pages from the first page forward.
Powerful, and compelling, with twists and turns and a few surprises and a treasure of a romance. I believe this is my favorite in this mesmerizing series. Simply awe inspiring and breathtaking as Kirk and Lillian make their way across Scotland, to find their HEA.
A definite must read! Ms Prince is a talented author and one of my favorite Scottish romance authors. I would like to thank, Ms. Prince for an excellent job of bringing readers a heart-pounding reading experience, once again!!! Bravo, Emma Prince! !
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2019
Kirk MacLeod is a double agent sent on the orders of Robert the Bruce to infiltrate a bounty hunting group, the Order of the Shadow. His first assignment as a bounty hunter is to abduct a widow who is is being protected by Robert the Bruce's Bodyguard Corps which puts him at odds with them.
Lillian Fitzhugh's husband was the master mason for the Berwick Wall when someone abducted him and tortured him to find out if there was a weakness in the wall. When they didn't get the answers they wanted from him, they came after Lillian because they thought she would know something.
She was saved by Bruce's Bodyguard Corps and taken to the Highlands to be protected but Kirk MacLeod abducted her to take her to the Order of the Shadow who plan on selling her to their clients who want the information she does not have out of her.
Kirk has to maintain his cover so he can show Lillian little compassion. This is where I had a hard time with the story. The little compassion that Kirk showed her like keeping her warm, made Lillian think he might really be a good man. My mind kept screaming, "Stockholm Syndrome!".
Kirk kept reasoning with himself that he had to turn her over because she was just one woman in a war and his mission to take down the order could save hundreds, if not thousands, of lives. It became more difficult to do as his attraction to her grew. This bugged me too. if she had been an ugly old crone, would he have cared?
It was still a good read despite my misgivings. I have already started the next book in the series.
Lillian Fitzhugh's husband was the master mason for the Berwick Wall when someone abducted him and tortured him to find out if there was a weakness in the wall. When they didn't get the answers they wanted from him, they came after Lillian because they thought she would know something.
She was saved by Bruce's Bodyguard Corps and taken to the Highlands to be protected but Kirk MacLeod abducted her to take her to the Order of the Shadow who plan on selling her to their clients who want the information she does not have out of her.
Kirk has to maintain his cover so he can show Lillian little compassion. This is where I had a hard time with the story. The little compassion that Kirk showed her like keeping her warm, made Lillian think he might really be a good man. My mind kept screaming, "Stockholm Syndrome!".
Kirk kept reasoning with himself that he had to turn her over because she was just one woman in a war and his mission to take down the order could save hundreds, if not thousands, of lives. It became more difficult to do as his attraction to her grew. This bugged me too. if she had been an ugly old crone, would he have cared?
It was still a good read despite my misgivings. I have already started the next book in the series.
March 27, 2018
Loved this book, Well written and a wonderful exciting story with such great characters. It's a book you just need to keep turning the pages yet sorry when you've finished it! Recommended
February 7, 2018
Still Good Just Not the Best
This one is not my favorite of the series. It is still well written it just felt more contrived and formulaic than the 1st three. I didn’t really like Kirk. He was whiny and mopey and everything he thinks and does felt forced, to me. Lillian was a strong and intelligent heroine. Kirk and Lillian didn’t meet until about 20% of the way through the book. I liked the action and adventure but not really the romance. I have read every book published by Emma Prince, she is one of my favorite authors. She is consistent in her writing ability, usually earning 4-5 stars from me (only one of her books earned less than 4 stars). This is my 4th favorite of the Highland Bodyguard series. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-3/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
This one is not my favorite of the series. It is still well written it just felt more contrived and formulaic than the 1st three. I didn’t really like Kirk. He was whiny and mopey and everything he thinks and does felt forced, to me. Lillian was a strong and intelligent heroine. Kirk and Lillian didn’t meet until about 20% of the way through the book. I liked the action and adventure but not really the romance. I have read every book published by Emma Prince, she is one of my favorite authors. She is consistent in her writing ability, usually earning 4-5 stars from me (only one of her books earned less than 4 stars). This is my 4th favorite of the Highland Bodyguard series. WARNING: there is sex in this book, it is not erotica, but enough to be a steamy & hot adult romance. Please do not read if you are looking for something PG. Romance-3/5 Steaminess-3/5 Explicitness-3/5
August 2, 2023
I love Tim Campbell as a narrator.
I feel for Kirk and his disillusionment. War can do that, even so, some of his thoughts erred on the side of dramatics. He was a little emo for a highland warrior.
This was not how I imagined seeing Will Sinclair again. I enjoyed the Sinclair trilogy, and grew attached with Will through his brief appearance in the third book. His poor eye! It's hard to imagine that being the only way Kirk could've taken him down...
"Is this the last I'll see McCloud?" Lillian, maybe be more concerned about impending torture. For the love of all things holy, please focus on what's important.
I'm glad that we got to see McKenzie again, and I hope he finds his Sister.
The plot itself doesn't exactly have holes, but the character development sort of does. I found this book not holding my attention, possibly because this basic formula was used in the first 3 bodyguard books. It seems like the characters are prone to insta-love/insta-lust/insta-trust and it's a little... unrealistic. There is also a bit whiplash between character extremes "I'm a dark soul"/"her blinding kindness healed me completely", "I'm guilty"/"She freed me", "I'm afraid"/"He makes me feel safe", "I don't like him/her"/"Oh! I love him/her!". There's a lot of "what is this feeling? Oh! It must be Love!" The Sinclair trilogy was great, and the bodyguard plots hold great promise... but I feel like they could've been fleshed out more.
There is a part of me that wants to keep reading to get to Will, Niall, and Logan's stories, but at the same time... these books seem to be losing the heart that made me love them.
I feel for Kirk and his disillusionment. War can do that, even so, some of his thoughts erred on the side of dramatics. He was a little emo for a highland warrior.
This was not how I imagined seeing Will Sinclair again. I enjoyed the Sinclair trilogy, and grew attached with Will through his brief appearance in the third book. His poor eye! It's hard to imagine that being the only way Kirk could've taken him down...
"Is this the last I'll see McCloud?" Lillian, maybe be more concerned about impending torture. For the love of all things holy, please focus on what's important.
I'm glad that we got to see McKenzie again, and I hope he finds his Sister.
The plot itself doesn't exactly have holes, but the character development sort of does. I found this book not holding my attention, possibly because this basic formula was used in the first 3 bodyguard books. It seems like the characters are prone to insta-love/insta-lust/insta-trust and it's a little... unrealistic. There is also a bit whiplash between character extremes "I'm a dark soul"/"her blinding kindness healed me completely", "I'm guilty"/"She freed me", "I'm afraid"/"He makes me feel safe", "I don't like him/her"/"Oh! I love him/her!". There's a lot of "what is this feeling? Oh! It must be Love!" The Sinclair trilogy was great, and the bodyguard plots hold great promise... but I feel like they could've been fleshed out more.
There is a part of me that wants to keep reading to get to Will, Niall, and Logan's stories, but at the same time... these books seem to be losing the heart that made me love them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2021
Kirk and Lillian's story is filled with such emotion and heartfelt love. This fourth book in Emma Prince's outstanding series of Highland Bodyguards, is even better than those before, this entire series has been completely captivating as her clever writing draws you in to these adventures and characters.
These strong characters are caught in a web of tragedy, Lillian an innocent victim and Kirk who cannot shake the ghosts of his dreadful past.
Both are honorable, loyal, and looking for love amongst the debris of Scottish and English politics.
They are both just trying to stay alive while the very large odds are stacked against them.
The further into this love story you step, the more and more you get pulled into their angst, emotion, passion, and love. Their helpless bewilderment will pull at your heart as you worry for their safety.
As usual, Emma Prince does a superb job of not only capturing the era and the atmosphere of the time, but the camaraderie too.
Emma's writing is so descriptive, that her characters are not only believable but come alive, especially during their conversations as the bodyguard brotherhood talk to each other.
This series is outstanding and I am absolutely loving it!
These strong characters are caught in a web of tragedy, Lillian an innocent victim and Kirk who cannot shake the ghosts of his dreadful past.
Both are honorable, loyal, and looking for love amongst the debris of Scottish and English politics.
They are both just trying to stay alive while the very large odds are stacked against them.
The further into this love story you step, the more and more you get pulled into their angst, emotion, passion, and love. Their helpless bewilderment will pull at your heart as you worry for their safety.
As usual, Emma Prince does a superb job of not only capturing the era and the atmosphere of the time, but the camaraderie too.
Emma's writing is so descriptive, that her characters are not only believable but come alive, especially during their conversations as the bodyguard brotherhood talk to each other.
This series is outstanding and I am absolutely loving it!
May 25, 2017
Another thrilling Highland adventure! I loved both the hero and heroine. Kirk is tortured by his past, and has forgotten what it means to be an honorable man. Lillian is a sharp-minded widow who is running from a dangerous organization of bounty hunters--including the hero. Loved all the complexity and nuance of both characters' emotional journey through the book. There was plenty of action and adventure, as always, but what really kept me turning the pages was the building tension between Kirk and Lillian, and watching their relationship unfold. This can be read as a stand-alone, but I loved how it fit in with the other books (some main characters from previous books make appearances, and the history surrounding the events of the story, like Scotland's war in Ireland and the siege of Carrickfergus, makes it an even richer read among the others in the series). Can't wait for the next one!
January 27, 2018
OK
The problem I have with this 4th installment if this series is the lack of plot originality. It is almost the same as the three books before it in terms of the desire and romance that inflicts this warrior and his English woman captive. How many times is this portion of the storyline used before it is just played out......no surprises here!
Again, the writing us good, and if I hadn't read the books I order I may not have found the love affair so monotonous.
I would recommend to readers of historical romance novels as a standalone book.
The problem I have with this 4th installment if this series is the lack of plot originality. It is almost the same as the three books before it in terms of the desire and romance that inflicts this warrior and his English woman captive. How many times is this portion of the storyline used before it is just played out......no surprises here!
Again, the writing us good, and if I hadn't read the books I order I may not have found the love affair so monotonous.
I would recommend to readers of historical romance novels as a standalone book.
July 20, 2017
Lovely story
I am amazed every time I read one of Emma's books. Such a creative story line. I also like books with a little Robert the Bruce. Plus this book continues with characters from her other books. Characters Lillian and Kirk are great. Kirk the troubled war harden warrior that infiltrates the Order and Lillian his captive. Won't give anything away, but It's definitely a fine book.
I am amazed every time I read one of Emma's books. Such a creative story line. I also like books with a little Robert the Bruce. Plus this book continues with characters from her other books. Characters Lillian and Kirk are great. Kirk the troubled war harden warrior that infiltrates the Order and Lillian his captive. Won't give anything away, but It's definitely a fine book.
June 12, 2017
Bounty Hunter
This is an exciting book. Another good book in the Highland bodyguard series. I enjoy Emma Prince's writing. I recommend Lillian and Kirk 's story. I like how Emma brought Kirk 's struggle as a soldier to light. Many soldiers probably struggle with the same issues of following orders that to against their moral code. I can't wait for Logan's story.
This is an exciting book. Another good book in the Highland bodyguard series. I enjoy Emma Prince's writing. I recommend Lillian and Kirk 's story. I like how Emma brought Kirk 's struggle as a soldier to light. Many soldiers probably struggle with the same issues of following orders that to against their moral code. I can't wait for Logan's story.
December 6, 2017
Another fun and exciting novel from the Highland Bodyguards series! This is Finn Sutherland’s story, whom we know from the last book has hated the English since they murdered his family. Here his loyalties are tested and his beliefs are put into question. This passionate and intrigue filled tale kept me turning the pages. I am eager to read more from this captivating series.
May 4, 2017
A terrific series
This book can be read alone, but I prefer as a series. Emma Prince does an amazing job on her characters. This book is full of emotion and suspense. I look forward to other books in the series.
This book can be read alone, but I prefer as a series. Emma Prince does an amazing job on her characters. This book is full of emotion and suspense. I look forward to other books in the series.
May 4, 2017
A Reader's Opinion: 3 1/2 Stars . . . "Fans of Highland romance novels are sure to enjoy the writings of Emma Prince."
Read the review: http://ow.ly/F8K630bqVNN
**Reviewed by Kaylie for Books & Benches**
Read the review: http://ow.ly/F8K630bqVNN
**Reviewed by Kaylie for Books & Benches**
June 1, 2019
This instalment was filled with lots of suspense. The reader cannot work out how Kirk is going to survive his double mission and live happily ever after. You can feel the despair ratchet up as the story progresses. This has a really good level of detail. Great!
June 11, 2020
My least fav so far in this series but still a string 4 star, Kirk dint quit for the Highlander Alpa male profile throughout. He was scared and would have given up an innocent women because he was afraid and wanted out. Didn’t like that but overall still good book I don’t think that a spoiler.
November 8, 2017
Five star!
Very good story and interesting it makes you want to find out what will happen in the end loving all the heroes and heroines now next one on to Logan.
Very good story and interesting it makes you want to find out what will happen in the end loving all the heroes and heroines now next one on to Logan.
July 8, 2018
Following the series
Not the best of her efforts. Story line lost sometimes with all the musings. Hero rescued damsel becomes a little redundant when there is no action.
Not the best of her efforts. Story line lost sometimes with all the musings. Hero rescued damsel becomes a little redundant when there is no action.
July 8, 2021
Great Historical romance
This was a great book. Kirk and Lillian were meant for each other. Love is hard during war as we all know.
This was a great book. Kirk and Lillian were meant for each other. Love is hard during war as we all know.
April 19, 2023
Oh, the angst, the drama, the emotionally tortured hero!!! This book deserves all the stars in the world. Yes, it is THAT brilliant.❤ The plot is excellent, the pace great, the love story intense. Nothing about this book, the surprises it holds in the plot, is obvious. It's like a game of chess indeed!!! 😉 I LOVE how Lillian is described as highly intelligent, observant, intuitive. Kirk is SUCH A COMPLEX character. Impossible not to love him and empathise with his search for true freedom. And if I though that Emma Prince put her characters in Heart's Thief in some difficult situations then...I was wrong. 😂 THIS book truly pushes the characters' to their extremes in the most delicious ways and then slowly gets them out of trouble and into the arms of love and happy everafter. 🥰🥰🥰❤❤❤
April 1, 2017
Widowed Lilian Fitzhugh finds herself being spirited away to the Scottish Highlands because she is believed to have important knowledge.
Kirk MacLeod is a soldier in service to Robert the Bruce, but recent events have left him doubting his commitment to the cause.
Our hero finds himself caught between a rock and a hard place. No matter what he does he is a dead man. His head and his heart are pulling him in opposite directions.
This is part of a series but easily read as a stand alone. There are some incredible fights as well as emotional torment . An exciting tension filled journey across Scotland with a big sexy Highlander. I loved it.
Kirk MacLeod is a soldier in service to Robert the Bruce, but recent events have left him doubting his commitment to the cause.
Our hero finds himself caught between a rock and a hard place. No matter what he does he is a dead man. His head and his heart are pulling him in opposite directions.
This is part of a series but easily read as a stand alone. There are some incredible fights as well as emotional torment . An exciting tension filled journey across Scotland with a big sexy Highlander. I loved it.
April 5, 2017
Another fabulous read
One of my favorite authors, Emma Prince never disappoints! Loved the story! The Bruce battles on and those who work for him have lots of trials that we love to read about! Don't miss this one!
One of my favorite authors, Emma Prince never disappoints! Loved the story! The Bruce battles on and those who work for him have lots of trials that we love to read about! Don't miss this one!
April 6, 2017
Exceptionally Good!!!!
Kirk and Lillian story was exceptional. This is the fourth book in the series and it truly did not disappoint. I loved everything about this story. The story grabbed me right away and I could feel the hero's struggles and they were very intense. There were moments that brought tears to my eyes. There were also moments that made me laugh out loud and spit out my water. Having read all of this authors books and the previous three books in the series I couldn't help but laugh out loud on a particular part in this book with Robert the Bruce. I look forward to more books in the series and congratulations to Emma Prince for doing such a magnificent job on Kirk and Lillian's story. I hope Logan has a book of his own soon.
Kirk and Lillian story was exceptional. This is the fourth book in the series and it truly did not disappoint. I loved everything about this story. The story grabbed me right away and I could feel the hero's struggles and they were very intense. There were moments that brought tears to my eyes. There were also moments that made me laugh out loud and spit out my water. Having read all of this authors books and the previous three books in the series I couldn't help but laugh out loud on a particular part in this book with Robert the Bruce. I look forward to more books in the series and congratulations to Emma Prince for doing such a magnificent job on Kirk and Lillian's story. I hope Logan has a book of his own soon.
April 7, 2017
Review
I liked this series the characters were likeable the story line ran smoothly together, the romance was sizzling a together it was a fun read.
I liked this series the characters were likeable the story line ran smoothly together, the romance was sizzling a together it was a fun read.
April 15, 2017
Great book
Another wonderful story about the time long ago and the problems then and also about a life beset with troubles. Add Robert the Bruce into it and a group of awful men and the story is wonderful.
Another wonderful story about the time long ago and the problems then and also about a life beset with troubles. Add Robert the Bruce into it and a group of awful men and the story is wonderful.
April 21, 2017
Suspense, relationship tension & heat...
What more could you want?! I liked the different plot line of this novel and the complexity of the challenge facing Kirk. Plus, Lillian was a more interesting heroine.
What more could you want?! I liked the different plot line of this novel and the complexity of the challenge facing Kirk. Plus, Lillian was a more interesting heroine.
April 27, 2017
I love this series and was so happy to see it come out in paperback. I love the way Emma Prince brings the characters to life and to watch as they struggle to stay ahead of the leader of the Order and out smart him plus see their romance blossom. I love that time in history. I have all of her books and look forward to her next one!!!
April 27, 2017
Claimed By The Bounty Hunter
As always Emma Prince has written another winner. Her mix of adventure and romance makes for the best of reading. She keeps you turning the pages and hard to put down her novels. As Kirk and Lillian make this story a novel to re-read again and again.
As always Emma Prince has written another winner. Her mix of adventure and romance makes for the best of reading. She keeps you turning the pages and hard to put down her novels. As Kirk and Lillian make this story a novel to re-read again and again.
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