What do you think?
Rate this book
Lords of the Highlands #3
The Highland Guardian
He has sworn to protect her...
Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, is a man of his word. During a harrowing battle at sea, the heroic Highlander makes a vow to a dying friend to watch over the man's daughter. His plan: send the child to boarding school as quickly as possible so he can continue his mission. But Reid's new ward is no wee lass. She's a ravishing, fully grown woman, and it's all he can do to remember his duty and not seduce her himself.
But he might be her greatest threat...
Miss Audrey Kennet is stunned by the news. First this kilted brute tells Audrey her father is dead, and next he insists she marry. But as Reid scours England for the most suitable husband, Audrey soon realizes the brave, brawny Scot is the only man she wants—though loving him means risking her lands, her freedom, and even her life.
Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, is a man of his word. During a harrowing battle at sea, the heroic Highlander makes a vow to a dying friend to watch over the man's daughter. His plan: send the child to boarding school as quickly as possible so he can continue his mission. But Reid's new ward is no wee lass. She's a ravishing, fully grown woman, and it's all he can do to remember his duty and not seduce her himself.
But he might be her greatest threat...
Miss Audrey Kennet is stunned by the news. First this kilted brute tells Audrey her father is dead, and next he insists she marry. But as Reid scours England for the most suitable husband, Audrey soon realizes the brave, brawny Scot is the only man she wants—though loving him means risking her lands, her freedom, and even her life.
368 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 19, 2017
135 people are currently reading
1636 people want to read
About the author
Amy Jarecki
113 books1,713 followersKnown for her action-packed, passionate romances, USA TODAY Bestselling Author Amy Jarecki has received reader and critical praise throughout her writing career. She won the prestigious RT Reviewers' Choice award for THE HIGHLAND DUKE and a RONE award from InD’tale Magazine for Best Time Travel for her novel RISE OF A LEGEND. In addition to being a USA TODAY Bestselling Author, Amy has earned the designation as an Amazon All Star Author. She holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland and now resides in Wisconsin with her husband where she writes immersive historical and contemporary romance novels.
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
Become a part of her world and learn more about Amy’s books on amyjarecki.com!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 15, 2022
Nooo.
It started off strong due to the political/historical plotline, but ended up being too melodramatic with the romance-y stuff. I know how that sounds because this IS a romance, but the more I read the more my eyes rolled at the absurdity of the dialogue. He tries too hard to be manly and she tries too hard to be the kind of woman she thinks he'll want to marry.
Blech.
And to be honest, there was too much extraneous sex.
Och, my wee lass let me taste ye....slurp, slurp, slurp!
There's only so much of that I can take. I think my limit is 2 good sex scenes. After that, you're just repeating yourself and I'm skimming because you've killed my lady boner.
In the end, it was good enough that I honestly wanted to finish it and see how it all worked out, but I don't think I'll be reading anything else by this author. <--that's not set in stone, so feel free to convince me that she's written something great and I may give it a shot.
Maybe this just wasn't my cuppa?
It started off strong due to the political/historical plotline, but ended up being too melodramatic with the romance-y stuff. I know how that sounds because this IS a romance, but the more I read the more my eyes rolled at the absurdity of the dialogue. He tries too hard to be manly and she tries too hard to be the kind of woman she thinks he'll want to marry.
Blech.
And to be honest, there was too much extraneous sex.
Och, my wee lass let me taste ye....slurp, slurp, slurp!
There's only so much of that I can take. I think my limit is 2 good sex scenes. After that, you're just repeating yourself and I'm skimming because you've killed my lady boner.
In the end, it was good enough that I honestly wanted to finish it and see how it all worked out, but I don't think I'll be reading anything else by this author. <--that's not set in stone, so feel free to convince me that she's written something great and I may give it a shot.
Maybe this just wasn't my cuppa?
Want to read
July 11, 2017
"Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, is a man of his word."
After already reading the first two in this series, I can't wait to get my hands on this one. I was actually rooting for Reid in The Highland Commander so I'm excited for his story!
Those kilted warriors get me Every. Single. Time.
*swoon*
After already reading the first two in this series, I can't wait to get my hands on this one. I was actually rooting for Reid in The Highland Commander so I'm excited for his story!
Those kilted warriors get me Every. Single. Time.
*swoon*
December 17, 2017
The Highland Guardian by Amy Jarecki is Book Three in the "Lords of the Highlands" series. This is the story of Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth and Audrey Kennet. Reid and his crew were returning from France when they were attacked near the coast of Harlepool. During this attack Nicholas Kennet was killed but before he died he made Reid promise to take care of his daughter, Audrey. Reid agreed and thinking she would be a child figured he would put her in boarding school. But when he went to Coxhoe House to let her know of her father's passing he learns she just turned 19 years of age and already out of Finishing School. So Reid settles to marry the Heiress off to a stable man. But Audrey is a painfully shy wallflower or so she thinks until she learns that Reid is going to marry her off. Audrey does not want to be married off and goes forward to try and discourage this. But there is a man that wants her money who is willing to do what he has too to get it. But Reid is having a hard time fighting his growing feelings for her.
This was a really exciting love story that I could not put down! Loved it!!
This was a really exciting love story that I could not put down! Loved it!!
December 11, 2017
Oh my, but this is a wonderful book!
Coming back from France, with a missive from Prince James on his person, Captain Reid MacKenzie’s ship is hit by Her Majesty’s Navy’s cannonballs. Reid’s ship is sunk, and as his best friend Nicholas Kennet lay dying, he entrusts Reid with the welfare of his daughter Audrey. At barely twenty three, Reid hardly sees himself as a guardian of a wee lass: his life is busy as it is with his estates, and the Jacobite cause he champions. However, a nineteen year-old very fetching ward is a problem he doesn’t need.
THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is book 3 in Amy Jarecki’s marvellous Lord of the Highland series, and this book is the best of them all! Against the backdrop of Scotland’s precarious position in Britain, Ms. Jarecki weaves an amazingly believable romance, fraught with peril and treachery. THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN unfolds at breakneck speed, while fierce battles on land are fought, and danger lurks at sea, all made astonishingly authentic with the addition of fabulous historical details and crystal-clear descriptions from the author.
THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is an extraordinarily exciting book, filled with spectacular action and unexpected twists that barely give the reader time to breathe. The writing is flawless, elegant yet unpretentious; the dialogues superb, and the characters magnificently fleshed-out, even the chief villain makes your skin crawl in a chillingly realistic manner. Reid is a splendid hero: confident, utterly charming, and yet not indestructible – and this is one of the several highlights of the book; boy, does Reid go through a lot! And Audrey is one of the best heroines ever written: very clever and talented in many ways, still clumsy at one thing, she discovers strengths she never knew she possesses, and this Sassenach lassie braves danger as well as a braw Highlander: dear readers, this is how unforgettable characters should be written! THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is a perfect blend of action, history, and romance; I highly recommend this excellent book which is one of this year’s best!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
Coming back from France, with a missive from Prince James on his person, Captain Reid MacKenzie’s ship is hit by Her Majesty’s Navy’s cannonballs. Reid’s ship is sunk, and as his best friend Nicholas Kennet lay dying, he entrusts Reid with the welfare of his daughter Audrey. At barely twenty three, Reid hardly sees himself as a guardian of a wee lass: his life is busy as it is with his estates, and the Jacobite cause he champions. However, a nineteen year-old very fetching ward is a problem he doesn’t need.
THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is book 3 in Amy Jarecki’s marvellous Lord of the Highland series, and this book is the best of them all! Against the backdrop of Scotland’s precarious position in Britain, Ms. Jarecki weaves an amazingly believable romance, fraught with peril and treachery. THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN unfolds at breakneck speed, while fierce battles on land are fought, and danger lurks at sea, all made astonishingly authentic with the addition of fabulous historical details and crystal-clear descriptions from the author.
THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is an extraordinarily exciting book, filled with spectacular action and unexpected twists that barely give the reader time to breathe. The writing is flawless, elegant yet unpretentious; the dialogues superb, and the characters magnificently fleshed-out, even the chief villain makes your skin crawl in a chillingly realistic manner. Reid is a splendid hero: confident, utterly charming, and yet not indestructible – and this is one of the several highlights of the book; boy, does Reid go through a lot! And Audrey is one of the best heroines ever written: very clever and talented in many ways, still clumsy at one thing, she discovers strengths she never knew she possesses, and this Sassenach lassie braves danger as well as a braw Highlander: dear readers, this is how unforgettable characters should be written! THE HIGHLAND GUARDIAN is a perfect blend of action, history, and romance; I highly recommend this excellent book which is one of this year’s best!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
December 9, 2017
Series: Lords of the Highlands #3
Publication Date: 12/19/17
Romantic! Exciting! Suspenseful! This book reached out, grabbed me by the heart and dragged me back in time to Scotland during the early stages of the Jacobite movement. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. While this is the third book in the lords of the Highlands series, you can easily read it as a stand-alone. However, all of the other books are so good I know you’ll want to go back and read them as well.
Amy Jarecki has captured the feel of the time superbly. The English are riding roughshod over the Scots. They consider the Scots to be barbarians and see no reason not to mistreat and maim at every opportunity. You feel the tension in the air and feel the cruelty of the English. Is it any wonder that the Scots rebelled? The characters are fully developed, the writing outstanding and the story is well planned, well-written and very exciting. You'll fall in love with both Audrey and Reid.
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth is a Highlander through-and-through. He’s also a Jacobite. Not because he’s a religious zealot, but because he is concerned about the sovereignty of Great Britain and doesn’t want to be ruled by ‘outsiders’ upon the death of Queen Anne. He wants Anne’s brother, James, from the Stuart line to become king. He’s the leader of the Highlanders support of ‘the cause’ and has little time for other things in his life – especially NOT a young ward. When he and his crew are returning to England from a visit to James in France, their ship is fired upon and sunk off the coast. His whole crew escapes unharmed – except for Nicholas Kinnet. As Kennet lays dying, he extracts a promise from Reid. Reid promises that he will see to the care and well-being of Kinnet’s daughter. Reid has no time to care for a child, but he’s a man of his word and will see to her care. How long can it take to find a good boarding school for her?
Audrey Kennet has always been excruciatingly shy and awkward. She’s a wallflower of the first order – or so she thinks. So, what is she to do when an unkempt stranger shows up at her door and announces that her father is dead and he is her new guardian? Well – she certainly isn’t going to trust him! Then, he announces that he will be marrying her off as soon as possible. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! She has no intention of marrying just to suit her new guardian. She finds she has strength and courage she never existed within her and manages to keep Reid off-kilter at every turn.
There is a first-class villain, of course. He sets many bad things in motion – just so he can have Audrey and her estate. I won’t mention all of the treacheries he sets off, but it takes us on a wild ride of a story. It is fast-paced, chilling, heart-wrenching and – yes – romantic. What a ride! You wonder right up to the end if they’ll survive and get their HEA! Great read!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 12/19/17
Romantic! Exciting! Suspenseful! This book reached out, grabbed me by the heart and dragged me back in time to Scotland during the early stages of the Jacobite movement. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. While this is the third book in the lords of the Highlands series, you can easily read it as a stand-alone. However, all of the other books are so good I know you’ll want to go back and read them as well.
Amy Jarecki has captured the feel of the time superbly. The English are riding roughshod over the Scots. They consider the Scots to be barbarians and see no reason not to mistreat and maim at every opportunity. You feel the tension in the air and feel the cruelty of the English. Is it any wonder that the Scots rebelled? The characters are fully developed, the writing outstanding and the story is well planned, well-written and very exciting. You'll fall in love with both Audrey and Reid.
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth is a Highlander through-and-through. He’s also a Jacobite. Not because he’s a religious zealot, but because he is concerned about the sovereignty of Great Britain and doesn’t want to be ruled by ‘outsiders’ upon the death of Queen Anne. He wants Anne’s brother, James, from the Stuart line to become king. He’s the leader of the Highlanders support of ‘the cause’ and has little time for other things in his life – especially NOT a young ward. When he and his crew are returning to England from a visit to James in France, their ship is fired upon and sunk off the coast. His whole crew escapes unharmed – except for Nicholas Kinnet. As Kennet lays dying, he extracts a promise from Reid. Reid promises that he will see to the care and well-being of Kinnet’s daughter. Reid has no time to care for a child, but he’s a man of his word and will see to her care. How long can it take to find a good boarding school for her?
Audrey Kennet has always been excruciatingly shy and awkward. She’s a wallflower of the first order – or so she thinks. So, what is she to do when an unkempt stranger shows up at her door and announces that her father is dead and he is her new guardian? Well – she certainly isn’t going to trust him! Then, he announces that he will be marrying her off as soon as possible. NOT GOING TO HAPPEN! She has no intention of marrying just to suit her new guardian. She finds she has strength and courage she never existed within her and manages to keep Reid off-kilter at every turn.
There is a first-class villain, of course. He sets many bad things in motion – just so he can have Audrey and her estate. I won’t mention all of the treacheries he sets off, but it takes us on a wild ride of a story. It is fast-paced, chilling, heart-wrenching and – yes – romantic. What a ride! You wonder right up to the end if they’ll survive and get their HEA! Great read!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
December 11, 2017
I really enjoyed this installment of the Lords of the Highlands - Reid (love that name!) and Audrey are both great characters and easy to like.
The story opens with Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth returning from France with Audrey's father, when they are attacked by a British galley and Nicholas Kennet is gravely wounded. Reid manages to get them to shore, but Nicholas' wounds are too great and before he dies he makes Reid swear to take care of his daughter.
Reid arranges burial and sets off for Coxhoe Manor, to see to his ward and then return to Scotland and make alliances for "the Cause". Reid is a Jacobite, but he treads softly, he was raised as a ward of Queen Anne and she has a soft spot for him. He truly cares for Anne, but he is determined to see her brother named King once Anne has passed. He is working with the Duke of Gordon and the Marquess of Tullibardine to ensure that James inherits and he is annoyed that he must detour to see to Nicholas' child. But duty and honor are everything to Reid and he gave his word. He thinks he will stop by the Kennet estate, pack the child off to school and be on his way within days.
Upon arriving at Coxhoe, Reid is annoyed once more that the child has not appeared when he had her summoned over an hour ago, he is then shocked when Nicholas' daughter is not the wee lass he assumed, but a 19 year old woman. A very beautiful, rich woman. Reid then decides that he will just marry her off, make sure the estate is in good order and then be on his way.
Audrey is devastated by the death of her father and horrified that Reid intends to marry her off. Audrey is convinced she is a wallflower and has no desire to marry. For some reason, Reid makes her bold, she does not trust Reid and demands that he take her to her father's grave. When he doesn't comply, she takes off on her own, but is stopped by Reid's commander Dunn and returned to the house. Still not trusting Reid and grieving for her father, Audrey begins to look into her father's dealings and is shocked at what she learns.
She begins to trust Reid and they grow closer - there is attraction there, but Reid is in no position to marry Audrey. He takes her to a ball to meet suitors, but is unhappy with each man that dances with her. For her part, Audrey spends the entire night comparing all the men to Reid and they all fall short. When she is confronted by Mr. Wagner Tupps, he is cruel to her and threatens to destroy Reid and her father's reputation if she does not marry him. She is shaken by the encounter and seeks a moment to herself, Reid finds her and comforts her. Later Wagner claims to be the last male heir to the estate and demands to marry Audrey.
Reid refuses and begins to look for evidence to refute Wagner's claim. He swears to protect Audrey and they share a kiss. But Wagner is not done with Audrey and forces her to accept his suit. When Reid learns of this, he goes after Wagner, but the man grabs Audrey. Reid saves her, but Wagner gets away.
Things just seem to fall apart for our lovers, Reid is arrested and beaten, Audrey admits she loves him and helps free him from prison. He tries to push her away, but she insists on caring for him. They turn to Aiden, the Marquess of Tullibardine for help and hide out in his hunting lodge. Reid heals and he and Audrey become lovers. Audrey hopes for more, but Reid has secrets and a duty to his clan. They part ways and Reid fully expects to never see her again.
When news comes, Audrey with the help of Aiden's wife Maddie, leave England to bring the news to Reid. But they are too late and Audrey once again finds herself in danger and later learns Reid's secret and is crushed.
This was a very intense, very well written story, it has a lot of action, steamy love scenes, many twists and turns, secrets, a little heartache, old friends, a very nasty, persistent villain and finally a HEA that didn't seem like it could ever be.
This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read as a stand alone title. I am happy to recommend this book and can't wait for the next book!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
The story opens with Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth returning from France with Audrey's father, when they are attacked by a British galley and Nicholas Kennet is gravely wounded. Reid manages to get them to shore, but Nicholas' wounds are too great and before he dies he makes Reid swear to take care of his daughter.
Reid arranges burial and sets off for Coxhoe Manor, to see to his ward and then return to Scotland and make alliances for "the Cause". Reid is a Jacobite, but he treads softly, he was raised as a ward of Queen Anne and she has a soft spot for him. He truly cares for Anne, but he is determined to see her brother named King once Anne has passed. He is working with the Duke of Gordon and the Marquess of Tullibardine to ensure that James inherits and he is annoyed that he must detour to see to Nicholas' child. But duty and honor are everything to Reid and he gave his word. He thinks he will stop by the Kennet estate, pack the child off to school and be on his way within days.
Upon arriving at Coxhoe, Reid is annoyed once more that the child has not appeared when he had her summoned over an hour ago, he is then shocked when Nicholas' daughter is not the wee lass he assumed, but a 19 year old woman. A very beautiful, rich woman. Reid then decides that he will just marry her off, make sure the estate is in good order and then be on his way.
Audrey is devastated by the death of her father and horrified that Reid intends to marry her off. Audrey is convinced she is a wallflower and has no desire to marry. For some reason, Reid makes her bold, she does not trust Reid and demands that he take her to her father's grave. When he doesn't comply, she takes off on her own, but is stopped by Reid's commander Dunn and returned to the house. Still not trusting Reid and grieving for her father, Audrey begins to look into her father's dealings and is shocked at what she learns.
She begins to trust Reid and they grow closer - there is attraction there, but Reid is in no position to marry Audrey. He takes her to a ball to meet suitors, but is unhappy with each man that dances with her. For her part, Audrey spends the entire night comparing all the men to Reid and they all fall short. When she is confronted by Mr. Wagner Tupps, he is cruel to her and threatens to destroy Reid and her father's reputation if she does not marry him. She is shaken by the encounter and seeks a moment to herself, Reid finds her and comforts her. Later Wagner claims to be the last male heir to the estate and demands to marry Audrey.
Reid refuses and begins to look for evidence to refute Wagner's claim. He swears to protect Audrey and they share a kiss. But Wagner is not done with Audrey and forces her to accept his suit. When Reid learns of this, he goes after Wagner, but the man grabs Audrey. Reid saves her, but Wagner gets away.
Things just seem to fall apart for our lovers, Reid is arrested and beaten, Audrey admits she loves him and helps free him from prison. He tries to push her away, but she insists on caring for him. They turn to Aiden, the Marquess of Tullibardine for help and hide out in his hunting lodge. Reid heals and he and Audrey become lovers. Audrey hopes for more, but Reid has secrets and a duty to his clan. They part ways and Reid fully expects to never see her again.
When news comes, Audrey with the help of Aiden's wife Maddie, leave England to bring the news to Reid. But they are too late and Audrey once again finds herself in danger and later learns Reid's secret and is crushed.
This was a very intense, very well written story, it has a lot of action, steamy love scenes, many twists and turns, secrets, a little heartache, old friends, a very nasty, persistent villain and finally a HEA that didn't seem like it could ever be.
This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read as a stand alone title. I am happy to recommend this book and can't wait for the next book!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
December 8, 2017
The Highland Guardian is the third book in the Lords of the Highlands series by Amy Jarecki. It can easily be read as a stand-alone, but if you haven't read the first 2 books already, I am sure you will want to read them once you have finished this one. Yes, it's that wonderful a book.
The Earl of Seaforth, Captain Reid MacKenzie is a Jacobite. He becomes the guardian of a young girl when he makes a vow to his dying friend to look after her. He really has no time to take on a ward, but he won't go back on his word. Unfortunately for him, thoughts of sending her off to boarding school while he carries on fighting for the Jacobite cause, fly out the window when he meets her and learns she is 19 years old. Not a young child at all! Now his job escalates as he realises he must try to marry her off as soon as possible, it's the only solution.
Audrey Kennet is Reid's ward. Devastated to learn that her father has been killed, she is even more distraught when she learns that Reid is intent on marrying her off to any suitable suitor he can find. At 19 Audrey is a wallflower, she hasn't had men chasing after her, and she certainly doesn't want to be forced into a marriage for her guardian's sake.
Audrey and Reid start spending time together, he is helping prepare her for a ball and helping to find her future husband. It isn't long until circumstances find them realising that they are hugely attracted to each other. Audrey would like nothing more than to marry Reid, but he can't marry an English woman, it would cause chaos among the clans that he is trying to unite, and he would have to forego a promise that he made his father. He must fight his attraction to her, but it's not as easy as he would hope.
I adored this story, it captured me from the very first page. Not only do we have the wonderful romantic aspect of the story, and the very passionate moments when Reid, the sexy highlander, and Audrey, the innocent beauty, can't help but fall into each other's arms, but there is the drama that comes from Reid's fight for the cause. There is a very evil character who causes a lot of trouble for Reid, I wish I could say what he causes to happen, but that would be a huge spoiler. Suffice to say I learned to despise that character, and also to cry tears for Reid. Of course, knowing that the Jacobite cause was a real thing, makes this story all the more emotional. Amy Jarecki tells an engrossing tale including much drama, devious backstabbing, and of course, very passionate romance, making this a perfect read for me. Just my cup of tea.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers' copy of this book.
The Earl of Seaforth, Captain Reid MacKenzie is a Jacobite. He becomes the guardian of a young girl when he makes a vow to his dying friend to look after her. He really has no time to take on a ward, but he won't go back on his word. Unfortunately for him, thoughts of sending her off to boarding school while he carries on fighting for the Jacobite cause, fly out the window when he meets her and learns she is 19 years old. Not a young child at all! Now his job escalates as he realises he must try to marry her off as soon as possible, it's the only solution.
Audrey Kennet is Reid's ward. Devastated to learn that her father has been killed, she is even more distraught when she learns that Reid is intent on marrying her off to any suitable suitor he can find. At 19 Audrey is a wallflower, she hasn't had men chasing after her, and she certainly doesn't want to be forced into a marriage for her guardian's sake.
Audrey and Reid start spending time together, he is helping prepare her for a ball and helping to find her future husband. It isn't long until circumstances find them realising that they are hugely attracted to each other. Audrey would like nothing more than to marry Reid, but he can't marry an English woman, it would cause chaos among the clans that he is trying to unite, and he would have to forego a promise that he made his father. He must fight his attraction to her, but it's not as easy as he would hope.
I adored this story, it captured me from the very first page. Not only do we have the wonderful romantic aspect of the story, and the very passionate moments when Reid, the sexy highlander, and Audrey, the innocent beauty, can't help but fall into each other's arms, but there is the drama that comes from Reid's fight for the cause. There is a very evil character who causes a lot of trouble for Reid, I wish I could say what he causes to happen, but that would be a huge spoiler. Suffice to say I learned to despise that character, and also to cry tears for Reid. Of course, knowing that the Jacobite cause was a real thing, makes this story all the more emotional. Amy Jarecki tells an engrossing tale including much drama, devious backstabbing, and of course, very passionate romance, making this a perfect read for me. Just my cup of tea.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance readers' copy of this book.
December 16, 2017
The Highland Guardian by Amy Jarecki
Lord of the Highlands #3
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, was having a nice sail back home from France when everything went to sh*t in a handbasket. Finding his ship sinking, his friend mortally wounded and all on board swimming for their lives it was perhaps one of the worst days of his life…well…till that point…I do believe one later day in the book may have been quite a bit worse. Bidden by Nicholas Kennet to become guardian for his daughter Audrey what can Reid say but, “sure” thinking Audrey would be a little tyke…uh…nope, no way, no how. She was a woman full grown and rather tempting.
Audrey claimed to be clumsy and shy but as time went on some of the words I wrote down related to her included: young, smart, naïve, stupid (very stupid sometimes), emotional, caring, capable, calming, stimulating, healing, stalwart…and she loves with a big heart. She is nineteen.
Reid is a man with a purpose. He wants to ensure who will be the next king of England, has an earldom and all of its responsibilities, is part of a clan, has…well…had his own ship and is only twenty-three. He is sure he is too young to settle down though he knows he must someday.
Throw into this story an evil man or two, a romance, a ball, a gorgeous red dress, an escape, time on the run, old expectations and promises to deal with, new love to figure out, evil dragoons, a sadist and more and you have a thrilling story from beginning to end. I will say that Audrey seemed weak and rather pallid at first and her idea of doing things for herself usually fell flat on its face BUT she did grow as the stories pages accumulated and I thought she and Reid made a good couple.
Did I like the story? Yes
Did I like the main characters? Yes
Were the villains evil enough? Yes
Were there characters I want to know more about? Yes
Who are these characters? Well, I wonder if Chieftain Dunn Macrae and Mairie might have a book of their own at some point in the near future ;)
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and the Author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Lord of the Highlands #3
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, was having a nice sail back home from France when everything went to sh*t in a handbasket. Finding his ship sinking, his friend mortally wounded and all on board swimming for their lives it was perhaps one of the worst days of his life…well…till that point…I do believe one later day in the book may have been quite a bit worse. Bidden by Nicholas Kennet to become guardian for his daughter Audrey what can Reid say but, “sure” thinking Audrey would be a little tyke…uh…nope, no way, no how. She was a woman full grown and rather tempting.
Audrey claimed to be clumsy and shy but as time went on some of the words I wrote down related to her included: young, smart, naïve, stupid (very stupid sometimes), emotional, caring, capable, calming, stimulating, healing, stalwart…and she loves with a big heart. She is nineteen.
Reid is a man with a purpose. He wants to ensure who will be the next king of England, has an earldom and all of its responsibilities, is part of a clan, has…well…had his own ship and is only twenty-three. He is sure he is too young to settle down though he knows he must someday.
Throw into this story an evil man or two, a romance, a ball, a gorgeous red dress, an escape, time on the run, old expectations and promises to deal with, new love to figure out, evil dragoons, a sadist and more and you have a thrilling story from beginning to end. I will say that Audrey seemed weak and rather pallid at first and her idea of doing things for herself usually fell flat on its face BUT she did grow as the stories pages accumulated and I thought she and Reid made a good couple.
Did I like the story? Yes
Did I like the main characters? Yes
Were the villains evil enough? Yes
Were there characters I want to know more about? Yes
Who are these characters? Well, I wonder if Chieftain Dunn Macrae and Mairie might have a book of their own at some point in the near future ;)
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and the Author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
December 16, 2017
The Highland Guardian by Amy Jarecki
Lord of the Highlands #3
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, was having a nice sail back home from France when everything went to sh*t in a handbasket. Finding his ship sinking, his friend mortally wounded and all on board swimming for their lives it was perhaps one of the worst days of his life…well…till that point…I do believe one later day in the book may have been quite a bit worse. Bidden by Nicholas Kennet to become guardian for his daughter Audrey what can Reid say but, “sure” thinking Audrey would be a little tyke…uh…nope, no way, no how. She was a woman full grown and rather tempting.
Audrey claimed to be clumsy and shy but as time went on some of the words I wrote down related to her included: young, smart, naïve, stupid (very stupid sometimes), emotional, caring, capable, calming, stimulating, healing, stalwart…and she loves with a big heart. She is nineteen.
Reid is a man with a purpose. He wants to ensure who will be the next king of England, has an earldom and all of its responsibilities, is part of a clan, has…well…had his own ship and is only twenty-three. He is sure he is too young to settle down though he knows he must someday.
Throw into this story an evil man or two, a romance, a ball, a gorgeous red dress, an escape, time on the run, old expectations and promises to deal with, new love to figure out, evil dragoons, a sadist and more and you have a thrilling story from beginning to end. I will say that Audrey seemed weak and rather pallid at first and her idea of doing things for herself usually fell flat on its face BUT she did grow as the stories pages accumulated and I thought she and Reid made a good couple.
Did I like the story? Yes
Did I like the main characters? Yes
Were the villains evil enough? Yes
Were there characters I want to know more about? Yes
Who are these characters? Well, I wonder if Chieftain Dunn Macrae and Mairie might have a book of their own at some point in the near future ;)
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and the Author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Lord of the Highlands #3
Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, was having a nice sail back home from France when everything went to sh*t in a handbasket. Finding his ship sinking, his friend mortally wounded and all on board swimming for their lives it was perhaps one of the worst days of his life…well…till that point…I do believe one later day in the book may have been quite a bit worse. Bidden by Nicholas Kennet to become guardian for his daughter Audrey what can Reid say but, “sure” thinking Audrey would be a little tyke…uh…nope, no way, no how. She was a woman full grown and rather tempting.
Audrey claimed to be clumsy and shy but as time went on some of the words I wrote down related to her included: young, smart, naïve, stupid (very stupid sometimes), emotional, caring, capable, calming, stimulating, healing, stalwart…and she loves with a big heart. She is nineteen.
Reid is a man with a purpose. He wants to ensure who will be the next king of England, has an earldom and all of its responsibilities, is part of a clan, has…well…had his own ship and is only twenty-three. He is sure he is too young to settle down though he knows he must someday.
Throw into this story an evil man or two, a romance, a ball, a gorgeous red dress, an escape, time on the run, old expectations and promises to deal with, new love to figure out, evil dragoons, a sadist and more and you have a thrilling story from beginning to end. I will say that Audrey seemed weak and rather pallid at first and her idea of doing things for herself usually fell flat on its face BUT she did grow as the stories pages accumulated and I thought she and Reid made a good couple.
Did I like the story? Yes
Did I like the main characters? Yes
Were the villains evil enough? Yes
Were there characters I want to know more about? Yes
Who are these characters? Well, I wonder if Chieftain Dunn Macrae and Mairie might have a book of their own at some point in the near future ;)
Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and the Author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
November 14, 2017
Amy Jarecki has done it again -- wrapped a beautiful love story into historical fiction. In this action-packed third installment of the Lords of the Highlands series, The Highland Guardian, Captain Reid McKenzie, 5th Earl of Seaforth, becomes the guardian of his friend and co-conspirator, Nicholas Kennet's daughter, Audrey. Nicholas is killed by English dragoons who sent cannonballs into Reid's ship. The story was based on William McKenzie, the real 5th earl, and his friend, the widower, Nicholas Kennet, and his only child, Mary Kennet, who married the real-life 5th earl.
Reid expects to find a child as his ward. Needing to hurry home to organize the highland clans, he intends to send her to the finest boarding school, but Audrey is no child. She is a gorgeous and shy yet feisty 19-year-old woman. This was a time when women could not inherit property, hence the need for a guardian.
Like the first two books in the series, this one is set against the backdrop of the Jacobite Rebellion. Reid needs to settle Audrey's accounts, and return to his duties in the effort to convince Queen Anne to name her half-brother King James of Scotland as her successor to the throne of England. Reid is charged with uniting the clans, and organizing them for "the cause". These were dangerous times, when one's opinion of the government must be kept under wraps; a time when there was no such thing as a free press. It was agreed that the clans would be peaceful until the death of the queen.
Because Audrey is female, she must be married, or there must be a search for a male relative to handle her affairs. Enter her nefarious and penniless half-cousin, the illegitimate son of her deceased uncle, along with a less-than-honest probate attorney. With all these life-like characters, the pace of the story quickens. I always hate for these stories to end. I want to know how their lives went on after the immediate danger had passed. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love The Highland Guardian.
Reid expects to find a child as his ward. Needing to hurry home to organize the highland clans, he intends to send her to the finest boarding school, but Audrey is no child. She is a gorgeous and shy yet feisty 19-year-old woman. This was a time when women could not inherit property, hence the need for a guardian.
Like the first two books in the series, this one is set against the backdrop of the Jacobite Rebellion. Reid needs to settle Audrey's accounts, and return to his duties in the effort to convince Queen Anne to name her half-brother King James of Scotland as her successor to the throne of England. Reid is charged with uniting the clans, and organizing them for "the cause". These were dangerous times, when one's opinion of the government must be kept under wraps; a time when there was no such thing as a free press. It was agreed that the clans would be peaceful until the death of the queen.
Because Audrey is female, she must be married, or there must be a search for a male relative to handle her affairs. Enter her nefarious and penniless half-cousin, the illegitimate son of her deceased uncle, along with a less-than-honest probate attorney. With all these life-like characters, the pace of the story quickens. I always hate for these stories to end. I want to know how their lives went on after the immediate danger had passed. If you enjoy historical fiction, you will love The Highland Guardian.
November 22, 2017
Reid, the Earl of Seaforth, had no idea what he was getting himself into when he pledged to look after Nicholas Kennets daughter. Expecting a spoiled you child he's surprised to find a shy,beautiful young woman. And more importantly one he is attracted to.
Audrey doesn't know how to take Reid. One minute he's charming and the next bellowing about marrying her off so he can get back to his lands. But every time they're together something comes over them. How can he talk of marrying her off when he kisses her like that??
The more they are together the harder it is to resist what Reid knows he must. He is promised to another. But with danger around every corner he must do all in his power to keep Miss Audrey safe. But as the Redcoats capture Reid all bets are off. He must be rescued. And Audrey must be kept away from the vile Wagner Tupps. He'll never lay a hand on her if Reid has anything to do with it.
It all comes crashing down in an epic fight with danger and deceit. Will they be overcome before they ever have a chance to profess their love?? Will secrets keep them apart long after the fights have stopped or will Reid be her highland guardian forever??
Audrey doesn't know how to take Reid. One minute he's charming and the next bellowing about marrying her off so he can get back to his lands. But every time they're together something comes over them. How can he talk of marrying her off when he kisses her like that??
The more they are together the harder it is to resist what Reid knows he must. He is promised to another. But with danger around every corner he must do all in his power to keep Miss Audrey safe. But as the Redcoats capture Reid all bets are off. He must be rescued. And Audrey must be kept away from the vile Wagner Tupps. He'll never lay a hand on her if Reid has anything to do with it.
It all comes crashing down in an epic fight with danger and deceit. Will they be overcome before they ever have a chance to profess their love?? Will secrets keep them apart long after the fights have stopped or will Reid be her highland guardian forever??
November 17, 2017
LOVED this story! Reid makes a promise to a dying friend to care for his daughter. When Reid arrives at the Kennet home, he discovers that his friend's daughter is not a wee lass, but a full-grown woman just out of finishing school. He needs to marry her off so he can return to the Jacobite cause.
Audrey is shocked and distraught over losing her father and now this fierce Highlander shows up with one goal, to get her married off so he can leave. And she is not afraid to tell this over-sized, stubborn Scot just what she thinks even though she's considered a shy wallflower. He just brings it out of her!
A small piece of history plucked from the past and woven into a romance like only this author can do. Both characters were lovable and relate-able. The villain in this story will have you scowling at your book. I wanted to climb in and strangle him myself.
Exciting, steady-paced read and I highly recommend it.
Audrey is shocked and distraught over losing her father and now this fierce Highlander shows up with one goal, to get her married off so he can leave. And she is not afraid to tell this over-sized, stubborn Scot just what she thinks even though she's considered a shy wallflower. He just brings it out of her!
A small piece of history plucked from the past and woven into a romance like only this author can do. Both characters were lovable and relate-able. The villain in this story will have you scowling at your book. I wanted to climb in and strangle him myself.
Exciting, steady-paced read and I highly recommend it.
December 14, 2017
This book was another wonderful read by Ms. Jarecki. Her characters are full fleshed out and she draws the reader into the story like a masterful storyteller. I adored Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth. He was honorable and oh so sexy. Ms. Audrey Kennet is at first terrified of the Scotsman, but she soon realizes that he is the man she wants for her husband.
There are lots of twists and turns in this story. Reid suffers at the hands of an English captain and all Audrey can think about is rescuing him somehow. Just when you think Reid and Audrey are safe, another twists comes along. This book will keep your interest until the very last page. Fans of Scottish romances will certainly enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
There are lots of twists and turns in this story. Reid suffers at the hands of an English captain and all Audrey can think about is rescuing him somehow. Just when you think Reid and Audrey are safe, another twists comes along. This book will keep your interest until the very last page. Fans of Scottish romances will certainly enjoy this one.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 24, 2019
I just could not get into this book. I felt maybe it was something with the flow, the tension, it was weird. It felt choppy. “X” would happen then he would be wanting her out of nowhere. I felt like the build up was weird. I also felt like there were discrepancies in the heroines character. Supposedly she was so shy but she didn’t act shy. Repeatedly. She would say whatever she wanted. Then she would be musing about another character that said whatever she wanted and wishing she could be like her. It just didn’t make sense to me. I’d try her again (Jarecki) but I guess I just had a big disconnect with this book.
November 1, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed the story about Reid and Audrey. Fulfilling a promise to a dying friend he agrees to become guardian to his daughter thinking she is a child. To his surprise she is a full grown woman. This story has more than just romance, it has the intrigue and history and the coming together of two people from different places and the obstacles they have to overcome. There is also steamy romance!! I love that she incorporates characters from her other books but this is also a stand alone. I love reading Amy’s books and if you have not read the, before I would definitely recommend this one!
December 21, 2017
A sacred vow and complications ______ 3 1/2 stars
When Scotsman Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth promises a dying companion to become guardian of his child, Reid's thinking a young lass who could be placed in Boarding school. Imagine his shock when then lass transmorphs into a young, attractive Sassenach woman of marriageable age. Reid's fall back plan is to marry her off quickly so that he can continue down the path his responsibilities lead.
When a devastated Audrey Kennet learns of his plans for her, she decides she has plans of her own. Not so easy! Especially as the air fairly crackles between Reid and herself.
On the sidelines, yet significant, the players are an English officer who revels in torment and cruelty and an illegitimate, somewhat deranged cousin of Audrey's who is eyeing off her inheritance.
When these two join forces both Audrey and Reid are in danger.
Threats from outside of Jacobite involvements and thwarted plans play a part.
Audrey and Reid's mutual attraction escalates. Yet it cannot be. Reid has other plans!
I enjoyed both these characters. Reid for his somewhat distracted championship of Audrey and Audrey for the quiet determination she exhibits. Both are strong characters but together they just don't quite have 'it'. Reid really annoyed me occasionally, although to give him his due he was a man of his word to the nth degree.
A NetGalley ARC
When Scotsman Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth promises a dying companion to become guardian of his child, Reid's thinking a young lass who could be placed in Boarding school. Imagine his shock when then lass transmorphs into a young, attractive Sassenach woman of marriageable age. Reid's fall back plan is to marry her off quickly so that he can continue down the path his responsibilities lead.
When a devastated Audrey Kennet learns of his plans for her, she decides she has plans of her own. Not so easy! Especially as the air fairly crackles between Reid and herself.
On the sidelines, yet significant, the players are an English officer who revels in torment and cruelty and an illegitimate, somewhat deranged cousin of Audrey's who is eyeing off her inheritance.
When these two join forces both Audrey and Reid are in danger.
Threats from outside of Jacobite involvements and thwarted plans play a part.
Audrey and Reid's mutual attraction escalates. Yet it cannot be. Reid has other plans!
I enjoyed both these characters. Reid for his somewhat distracted championship of Audrey and Audrey for the quiet determination she exhibits. Both are strong characters but together they just don't quite have 'it'. Reid really annoyed me occasionally, although to give him his due he was a man of his word to the nth degree.
A NetGalley ARC
December 31, 2017
The wallflower discovers she's stronger and has more going for her than she ever knew! The hero of our story who has always been the responsible one, finds himself with more to deal with than he ever dreamed of. Oh this is going into my favorites file.
Reid MacKenzie is a Scottish Earl, Captain of his own galley returning from France on a mission for Queen Anne and as leader of the Scottish Defenders. In his youth he was a ward of Queen Anne after his parents died and became one of her favorite Scots. He went to France to plead with James Stuart to convert to Protestantism so he could inherit the English throne upon Queen Anne's death. Otherwise the Scottish/English Stuart line would end and the Hanover line would take over. His ship was sunk by an errant "warning shot" by an English Navy ship patrolling the coastal waters. On board was Nicholas Kennet, a wealthy English coal miner who what helping to fund the "Jacobites". He was the only fatality. As Nicholas is dying he extracts a promise from Reid to see to the wellbeing of his only daughter and heir, Audrey. Unbeknownst to Reid said daughter is 19, newly home from boarding school and a professed "wallflower".
I loved Audrey Kennet. She only had her Dad as a friend and they did everything together. She suddenly finds her life upside down, about to be married off to a stranger and ripped from her home. She has no relatives and suddenly find herself with a young stranger as her Guardian. After meeting with her father's solicitor, who is determined to turn her inheritance over to the crown as no woman can possibly inherit, she is determined to prove to the world she can run her own affairs. Each step of the way she finds more and more backbone and determination that she can control her own life and affairs. I loved seeing the wallflower blossom. And poor Reid can't walk away because he's made a promise he can't walk away from either. His problem is he's running out of time as he has to call a Clan meeting in Scotland in 3 months and here he is in England tending to Audrey. Enter the "slimy" Wagner Tupps determined to get his hands on Audrey and her inheritance. You see he's the illegitimate son of Audrey's uncle, Josiah. Amy takes us on a step by step journey of how Reid protects Audrey and Audrey grows into the woman her father would be proud of. I adored experiencing the journey by reading their story.
Thank you Amy and Hachette Book Group for giving me this ARC for an honest review.
Reid MacKenzie is a Scottish Earl, Captain of his own galley returning from France on a mission for Queen Anne and as leader of the Scottish Defenders. In his youth he was a ward of Queen Anne after his parents died and became one of her favorite Scots. He went to France to plead with James Stuart to convert to Protestantism so he could inherit the English throne upon Queen Anne's death. Otherwise the Scottish/English Stuart line would end and the Hanover line would take over. His ship was sunk by an errant "warning shot" by an English Navy ship patrolling the coastal waters. On board was Nicholas Kennet, a wealthy English coal miner who what helping to fund the "Jacobites". He was the only fatality. As Nicholas is dying he extracts a promise from Reid to see to the wellbeing of his only daughter and heir, Audrey. Unbeknownst to Reid said daughter is 19, newly home from boarding school and a professed "wallflower".
I loved Audrey Kennet. She only had her Dad as a friend and they did everything together. She suddenly finds her life upside down, about to be married off to a stranger and ripped from her home. She has no relatives and suddenly find herself with a young stranger as her Guardian. After meeting with her father's solicitor, who is determined to turn her inheritance over to the crown as no woman can possibly inherit, she is determined to prove to the world she can run her own affairs. Each step of the way she finds more and more backbone and determination that she can control her own life and affairs. I loved seeing the wallflower blossom. And poor Reid can't walk away because he's made a promise he can't walk away from either. His problem is he's running out of time as he has to call a Clan meeting in Scotland in 3 months and here he is in England tending to Audrey. Enter the "slimy" Wagner Tupps determined to get his hands on Audrey and her inheritance. You see he's the illegitimate son of Audrey's uncle, Josiah. Amy takes us on a step by step journey of how Reid protects Audrey and Audrey grows into the woman her father would be proud of. I adored experiencing the journey by reading their story.
Thank you Amy and Hachette Book Group for giving me this ARC for an honest review.
December 16, 2017
Well, this is awkward, my Scottish romance book loving friends. Though I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in this series, book 3, The Highland Guardian, just wasn’t that engaging to me. Reid, the hero, and Audrey, the heroine, both came across as mechanical and so did the predictable, unoriginal, slow to unfold plot. I also just didn’t feel a whole lot of chemistry or soul mate connection between these two.
One scene in particular stood out as strange. The lengthy marionette scenario, where the main couple were playing with puppets, made them both look childish and immature, folks. It had me wondering if during the editing phase someone else tampered with its content too much.
At 60%, I lost all interest in continuing, despite the evil villain determined to get his way drama. I’m sure all ended well, and this main couple eventually got their HEA. I just didn’t feel the writing was up to par with what I normally expect from this author so did not finish it.
Here’s to hoping Book 4, The Highland Chieftain, which will feature a more dashing, Dunn, a hero who will sweep me off my feet once again. Reid really wasn’t that memorable. He was protective but this romance was very forgettable.
Title: The Highland Guardian, Series: Lords of the Highlands (Book 3) Author: Amy Jarecki, Pages: 368, stand-alone but part of a series, stopped at 60%.
Book 1 - The Highland Duke (Akira & Geordie), Pages: 384, 3/28/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - The Highland Commander (Magdalen & Aidan), Pages: 384, 6/27/17https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - The Highland Guardian (Reid & Audrey), Pages: 368, 12/19/17
Book 4 - The Highland Chieftain (not yet released), 7/31/18
(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship or affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
One scene in particular stood out as strange. The lengthy marionette scenario, where the main couple were playing with puppets, made them both look childish and immature, folks. It had me wondering if during the editing phase someone else tampered with its content too much.
At 60%, I lost all interest in continuing, despite the evil villain determined to get his way drama. I’m sure all ended well, and this main couple eventually got their HEA. I just didn’t feel the writing was up to par with what I normally expect from this author so did not finish it.
Here’s to hoping Book 4, The Highland Chieftain, which will feature a more dashing, Dunn, a hero who will sweep me off my feet once again. Reid really wasn’t that memorable. He was protective but this romance was very forgettable.
Title: The Highland Guardian, Series: Lords of the Highlands (Book 3) Author: Amy Jarecki, Pages: 368, stand-alone but part of a series, stopped at 60%.
Book 1 - The Highland Duke (Akira & Geordie), Pages: 384, 3/28/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - The Highland Commander (Magdalen & Aidan), Pages: 384, 6/27/17https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - The Highland Guardian (Reid & Audrey), Pages: 368, 12/19/17
Book 4 - The Highland Chieftain (not yet released), 7/31/18
(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer. There is no relationship or affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
May 11, 2019
This is the 3rd book of the series. Captain Reid MacKenzie is Earl of Seaforth. During a Battle at sea he has to make a promise to a dying man. Please watch over his daughter. As Reid is on his way to meet her he thinks he can send her to boarding school and when of age find a suitor for her and marry her off. But when he gets there he is surprised that she is 19. Audrey is so upset when Reid tells her that her father is dead and now she is his ward. She lets him and her dad's lawyer know that she can take care of herself and her dad's business. She is worth a lot and Reid does not want her taken advantage of. There is a man who comes forward to claim he is a male heir and will wed Audrey. But he is nothing but a snake and a liar and Reid and Audrey need to take him down before a lot of damage is done.
Audrey and Reid are meant for each other and it was fun seeing them fight for each other.
#Forever
Audrey and Reid are meant for each other and it was fun seeing them fight for each other.
#Forever
April 29, 2022
The story took place in 1711 in England & Scotland.
Captain Reid MacKensie (also an earl) and the late
Nicholas Kennet served as business partners who
both favored the Jacobite Rebellion. Nicholas had a
tragic death due in part to the hero's bad decision as
ship's captain. Before his last breath, he asked Reid
to be his daughter's guardian.
The author depicted Reid as an Alpha male with a
capital A. Audrey thought her new guardian Reid an
uncouth, overbearing behemoth. Reid seemed to lose
maturity (?) as the story progressed. Audrey did not
follow/ respect her safety needs. Audrey and Reid
engaged in lusty goings-on : she loved, but not Reid.
He withheld imp. personal info for much of the story.
Natch.
The story mostly held my interest. However I'd compare
Reid's hero status to a sunken ship.
Captain Reid MacKensie (also an earl) and the late
Nicholas Kennet served as business partners who
both favored the Jacobite Rebellion. Nicholas had a
tragic death due in part to the hero's bad decision as
ship's captain. Before his last breath, he asked Reid
to be his daughter's guardian.
The author depicted Reid as an Alpha male with a
capital A. Audrey thought her new guardian Reid an
uncouth, overbearing behemoth. Reid seemed to lose
maturity (?) as the story progressed. Audrey did not
follow/ respect her safety needs. Audrey and Reid
engaged in lusty goings-on : she loved, but not Reid.
He withheld imp. personal info for much of the story.
Natch.
The story mostly held my interest. However I'd compare
Reid's hero status to a sunken ship.
April 1, 2019
This book really surprised me. I went in with no expectations, I just wanted to try one of the “mass market paperback” romance books. Despite the silly cover, this book truly holds its own. There a solid historical plot at its base with other layers of drama and romance. Overall, really enjoyable and a lot more than I was expecting!
December 11, 2017
Thanks Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and netgalley for this ARC.
Amy Jarecki knows how to keep her series fresh. Each love story stands alone but brings back characters from the previous novels. Full of action, close calls, and steamy embraces- it's a historical romance lover's dream.
Amy Jarecki knows how to keep her series fresh. Each love story stands alone but brings back characters from the previous novels. Full of action, close calls, and steamy embraces- it's a historical romance lover's dream.
June 2, 2018
Not bad, but an easy story, which unfortunately at times requires a large dose of suspension of belief. The writing is adequate. Characters... What's-her-name... I've forgotten her name already even though I finished the book about an hour ago... Audrey - that's her name - Audrey is nineteen going on thirteen. Plus she's very shy or very bold and flips back and forth in the blink of an eye (or a couple paragraphs). Reid is a stereotypical "He-man" who can be flogged severely, yet ride miles and miles over rough Highland countryside to escape the English dragoons. As in the first book of the series, which I read just prior to this one, I reckon we use 'reckon' a bit too much. According to Merriam-Webster online, it's an Old English word with a first known use in the 13th century, I suppose it's a viable use here in 1711, but it's still a bit much. Audrey's father's Tyrian purple clothing - not likely. The Byzantium dyeworks in Constantinople which provided the tyrian purple dye were destroyed in 1204 and by 1464 that particular dyestuff was no longer available. Audrey riding sidesaddle - she's described as jumping while in a sidesaddle, raising her leg up against the lower horn to stay seated - except that the lower horn, called a leaping horn, wasn't invented until 1830. Sidesaddles in the day of Queen Anne had the rider sitting sideways on the horse. Queen Anne, acclaimed a fine rider who often hunted, is shown riding sitting sideways. I refer you to The Saddle of Queens by Lida F. Bloodgood. On the subject of riding, in this and in the first book of the series, we're told that riders encouraged their mounts to greater speed by "slapping the reins." Slapping the reins is for carriage horses, not riding horses. If I ever "slapped the reins" while riding of one of my horses, they'd turn their head and look at me like WTF???? One uses their heels (pressed, kicked or drummed, depending on the speed desired) or a crop/whip to urge a riding horse forward, NOT slapping the reins.
All-in-all this had me either shaking my head in disbelief or laughing at places I doubt the author intended.
All-in-all this had me either shaking my head in disbelief or laughing at places I doubt the author intended.
December 20, 2017
A story really appeals to me when a hero, once given his word, will follow through even when it is inconvenient and neigh impossible to make it happen. Such is the case with Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, when he vows to a dying associate working for the cause, to protect his daughter, much as a guardian would.
The girl, Miss Audrey Kennet, isn’t a wee lass as Reid thinks, but a woman full-grown with the most beguiling blue eyes. Yes, the reader knows Reid will sink in the mire of lust, love, or both long before he knows it, and then it’s too late!
His plans change according to the circumstances. He can’t place her in boarding school, not even finishing school, because she’s completed her schooling. She’s of marriageable age, so all he needs to do it put Nicholas Kennet’s business in order and find a lad to marry her to.
As in any good story, and Amy Jarecki always tells whoppers, simply going from A to B is fraught with challenges. Here, Miss Audrey herself and other outside forces have Reid reworking his plans over and over.
Reid gets drawn into the net of caring (he’d rather not!)–he needs to get on with his own life. The cause needs him. His clan needs their chieftain with an added obligation which perils his freedom. His father made a pack with his uncle (again that honor thing) which has him already betrothed to his father’s uncle’s daughter. What is more important than unifying the clan and working for the cause? The Earl of Seaforth will be pulled in every direction, his heart being tattered in the process.
Audrey Kennet has more than beguiling blue eyes. She’s a woman of honor herself and demands to pay back the times Reid has protected her. She loses a little more of her heart to him every day. Frankly, they are a match made in heaven.
As with the rest of this series, this is an exciting read, suspenseful, full of danger plus experiencing what a man in love will do as he grapples with the anguish of satisfying his heart and doing the honorable thing.
The girl, Miss Audrey Kennet, isn’t a wee lass as Reid thinks, but a woman full-grown with the most beguiling blue eyes. Yes, the reader knows Reid will sink in the mire of lust, love, or both long before he knows it, and then it’s too late!
His plans change according to the circumstances. He can’t place her in boarding school, not even finishing school, because she’s completed her schooling. She’s of marriageable age, so all he needs to do it put Nicholas Kennet’s business in order and find a lad to marry her to.
As in any good story, and Amy Jarecki always tells whoppers, simply going from A to B is fraught with challenges. Here, Miss Audrey herself and other outside forces have Reid reworking his plans over and over.
Reid gets drawn into the net of caring (he’d rather not!)–he needs to get on with his own life. The cause needs him. His clan needs their chieftain with an added obligation which perils his freedom. His father made a pack with his uncle (again that honor thing) which has him already betrothed to his father’s uncle’s daughter. What is more important than unifying the clan and working for the cause? The Earl of Seaforth will be pulled in every direction, his heart being tattered in the process.
Audrey Kennet has more than beguiling blue eyes. She’s a woman of honor herself and demands to pay back the times Reid has protected her. She loses a little more of her heart to him every day. Frankly, they are a match made in heaven.
As with the rest of this series, this is an exciting read, suspenseful, full of danger plus experiencing what a man in love will do as he grapples with the anguish of satisfying his heart and doing the honorable thing.
December 22, 2018
Please see all of my reviews on my blog at https://www.robinlovesreading.com.
Above all else, Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, is a man of honor. He was at a battle at sea and he made a promise to act as Guardian to a dying man’s daughter. He figures at most he would be settling the child into a boarding school. However, when he meets her, he discovers that she is hardly a child. Instead, she is a beautiful young woman, one that he wouldn’t mind having for himself.
Miss Audrey Kennet is devastated by the news that her father has been killed. Then, when the stranger tells him that he is now her guardian, and that it is his decision that she marry, she is none too pleased. Reid begins to look for a suitable mate for her. No one suits Audrey’s fancy, except Reid. Reid has a very busy agenda. Despite the fact that he is drawn to Audrey, there are reasons that they will not suit. His life is headed into a direction in which Audrey simply will not fit.
As with the previous stories in this series, Amy Jarecki has incorporated historical facts and blended it with fiction. This lends itself into a well developed, exciting story. The is no shortage of action, drama and deep emotion that turned into a consuming love.
As always, the conflict and danger abounded. Along with this, the character development was just wonderful. Although only nineteen, Audrey made a delightful heroine. I enjoyed Reid as well. Part of him did want to rush Audrey into a marriage, but the better part of him really wanted her to be happy. The story rounded up quite nicely with a delightful conclusion.
This is the second book in the Lords of the Highland series. The other books that have been released are, The Highland Duke, The Highland Commander and The Highland Chieftain. The Highland Renegade and The Highland Earl are due for publication in 2019.
Above all else, Captain Reid MacKenzie, Earl of Seaforth, is a man of honor. He was at a battle at sea and he made a promise to act as Guardian to a dying man’s daughter. He figures at most he would be settling the child into a boarding school. However, when he meets her, he discovers that she is hardly a child. Instead, she is a beautiful young woman, one that he wouldn’t mind having for himself.
Miss Audrey Kennet is devastated by the news that her father has been killed. Then, when the stranger tells him that he is now her guardian, and that it is his decision that she marry, she is none too pleased. Reid begins to look for a suitable mate for her. No one suits Audrey’s fancy, except Reid. Reid has a very busy agenda. Despite the fact that he is drawn to Audrey, there are reasons that they will not suit. His life is headed into a direction in which Audrey simply will not fit.
As with the previous stories in this series, Amy Jarecki has incorporated historical facts and blended it with fiction. This lends itself into a well developed, exciting story. The is no shortage of action, drama and deep emotion that turned into a consuming love.
As always, the conflict and danger abounded. Along with this, the character development was just wonderful. Although only nineteen, Audrey made a delightful heroine. I enjoyed Reid as well. Part of him did want to rush Audrey into a marriage, but the better part of him really wanted her to be happy. The story rounded up quite nicely with a delightful conclusion.
This is the second book in the Lords of the Highland series. The other books that have been released are, The Highland Duke, The Highland Commander and The Highland Chieftain. The Highland Renegade and The Highland Earl are due for publication in 2019.
December 20, 2017
Though I have seen Amy Jarecki’s name around for years in the historical romance section, I don’t remember reading many books by her. Perhaps because of my tendency to read other genres first, but I found The Highland Guardian to be a wonderful surprise. I also thought the book would be medieval in time, but it takes place in the early 1700’s, dealing with the Jacobite cause. Not knowing a lot about the time, I can’t speak as to the accuracy of the events. It reads believable as if all is correct, so I think the author knows her stuff.
The two main characters are amusingly matched as the charismatic Scottish leader, Reid MacKenzie, with the painfully shy heroine. Audrey Kennet is especially well-drawn as the timid woman who stills has a back bone. I like how she would not be pushed aside, no matter how difficult it was for her to stand up for herself.
The Highland Guardian reads well as a stand-alone with no confusions or background stories that I needed to know from previous books. However, now that I have meet this group of characters, I would like to read the others in the series especially The Highland Commander. That speaks highly of Ms. Jarecki’s style of pulling the reader into a story.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
The two main characters are amusingly matched as the charismatic Scottish leader, Reid MacKenzie, with the painfully shy heroine. Audrey Kennet is especially well-drawn as the timid woman who stills has a back bone. I like how she would not be pushed aside, no matter how difficult it was for her to stand up for herself.
The Highland Guardian reads well as a stand-alone with no confusions or background stories that I needed to know from previous books. However, now that I have meet this group of characters, I would like to read the others in the series especially The Highland Commander. That speaks highly of Ms. Jarecki’s style of pulling the reader into a story.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley.
January 16, 2024
The English Ward & the Highland Laird
Centered around the controversy about the possible succession upon the childless Queen Anne's death, this romance brings together a Highland Earl and the heiress of an English coal mine. On the death of her beloved father while aboard the ship captained by the Earl of Seaforth, Reid MacKenzie, Audrey Kennet becomes MacKenzie's ward. The Earl of Seaforth and Mr. Kennet had gone to see James Stuart to try to convince him to switch to Protestantism. Many misconceptions about the Scots and the English are advanced within the plot on both sides of the border. Audrey, in her finishing school, had heard that Scots are brutes, while Reid believes English women are frail, delicate beings. Both Reid and Audrey let go of their prejuduces as they get to know one another and as they face numerous trials brought about by the HIghlander's visits to James and the Act of Settlement. Added to the mix is a plot involving Mr. Kennet's illegitimate nephew who is a blackmailing scoundrel who wants both Audrey and her inheritance. Full of intrigue and romance, this novel will spur the reader to try to finish the novel as fast as they can to get to the resolution.
Centered around the controversy about the possible succession upon the childless Queen Anne's death, this romance brings together a Highland Earl and the heiress of an English coal mine. On the death of her beloved father while aboard the ship captained by the Earl of Seaforth, Reid MacKenzie, Audrey Kennet becomes MacKenzie's ward. The Earl of Seaforth and Mr. Kennet had gone to see James Stuart to try to convince him to switch to Protestantism. Many misconceptions about the Scots and the English are advanced within the plot on both sides of the border. Audrey, in her finishing school, had heard that Scots are brutes, while Reid believes English women are frail, delicate beings. Both Reid and Audrey let go of their prejuduces as they get to know one another and as they face numerous trials brought about by the HIghlander's visits to James and the Act of Settlement. Added to the mix is a plot involving Mr. Kennet's illegitimate nephew who is a blackmailing scoundrel who wants both Audrey and her inheritance. Full of intrigue and romance, this novel will spur the reader to try to finish the novel as fast as they can to get to the resolution.
January 8, 2018
The Highland Guardian
by Amy Jarecki
Well... BUY BUY BUY BUY BUY!!!!
First, my heart tugged with the loss....Then I smiled at the expectations and the meeting of the two. Then I laughed and smiled, and became emotional. There is such a gamut of emotions tied to this book. I really loved reading this story. Now for the rest. This author is beginning to be a favorite of mine. Her books pull me into the story and I just cannot get away from reading it! I love the way she portrays her characters and the situations in the book. The romance and the plot line is not all sex, it is a story that is a beautiful romance with suspense, mystery and passion. I can only say buy this book and let it take you into another world. A great read! I was given this book in return for an honest review. Regards, Anna
by Amy Jarecki
Well... BUY BUY BUY BUY BUY!!!!
First, my heart tugged with the loss....Then I smiled at the expectations and the meeting of the two. Then I laughed and smiled, and became emotional. There is such a gamut of emotions tied to this book. I really loved reading this story. Now for the rest. This author is beginning to be a favorite of mine. Her books pull me into the story and I just cannot get away from reading it! I love the way she portrays her characters and the situations in the book. The romance and the plot line is not all sex, it is a story that is a beautiful romance with suspense, mystery and passion. I can only say buy this book and let it take you into another world. A great read! I was given this book in return for an honest review. Regards, Anna
February 18, 2018
I read a lot of different romance genres but, my first love is a beautifully written historical romance, especially about highlanders .
I'm literally a junkie !
That being said , I didn't read the first 2 books in the series before I started the highland Guardian, but I don't think it mattered much .
The authors easy flow of the story has highland sea captian Reid entrusted with his dying friends daughter. Not to happy to be left sitting idle with a young ward .He's left speechless when he realizes Audrey isn't a little girl .
I loved the scenes where Reid tries to bring Audrey out of her antisocial shell ..that's where their love begins to bloom.
Intense drama , romance and heartache ensues throughout the book. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future .
I'm literally a junkie !
That being said , I didn't read the first 2 books in the series before I started the highland Guardian, but I don't think it mattered much .
The authors easy flow of the story has highland sea captian Reid entrusted with his dying friends daughter. Not to happy to be left sitting idle with a young ward .He's left speechless when he realizes Audrey isn't a little girl .
I loved the scenes where Reid tries to bring Audrey out of her antisocial shell ..that's where their love begins to bloom.
Intense drama , romance and heartache ensues throughout the book. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future .
September 17, 2018
This is the third story in Lords of the Highland series and my least favorite out of the three. For that I blame both hero and heroine. I just couldn't warm up to either of them.
He was way too much "male" for me and I believe for the heroine as well. On the other hand, the heroine's character was a contradiction of shy and downright defiant.
The plot itself wasn't bad and the pace was the only thing that kept me going. Oh, and some secondary characters that were very entertaining.
Ms. Jarecki is an author that I enjoy reading because she does have a gift of placing her readers right in the middle of her stories and showing us wonderful landscape of parts of the world most of us wish we could see and touch. This is the reason why I come back to the worlds she creates.
Melanie for b2b
Gift ARC provided by the publisher
He was way too much "male" for me and I believe for the heroine as well. On the other hand, the heroine's character was a contradiction of shy and downright defiant.
The plot itself wasn't bad and the pace was the only thing that kept me going. Oh, and some secondary characters that were very entertaining.
Ms. Jarecki is an author that I enjoy reading because she does have a gift of placing her readers right in the middle of her stories and showing us wonderful landscape of parts of the world most of us wish we could see and touch. This is the reason why I come back to the worlds she creates.
Melanie for b2b
Gift ARC provided by the publisher
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews