Lady Evelyn's Highland Protector

Highland Hearts #2

by Tara Kingston

A Highlander’s vow...Scottish spy Gerard MacMasters never expected to be playing bodyguard in his mission to catch a killer. Stunning English beauty, Lady Evelyn Hunt, has witnessed a merciless assassin’s escape—now, she’s in danger, and it’s up to him to keep her alive. Yet, he is drawn to the tempting woman. Passion flares, but he knows better than to fall for her. He’s already lost one woman he loved—never again will he put his heart on the line.

She shields her heart...After a crushing betrayal at the altar, Lady Evelyn wants nothing to do with love. Kissing a gorgeous rogue is one thing, but surrendering her heart is another matter. When she stumbles upon a mysterious crime, nothing prepares her for the dashing Scot who charges into her life. The hot-blooded Highlander may be her hero—or her undoing.

Genres: Historical, Historical Romance, Romance

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2017

About the author

Award-winning author Tara Kingston writes historical romance laced with intrigue, danger, and adventures of the heart. A Southern-belle-out-of-water in a quaint Pennsylvania town, she lives her own love story with her real-life hero and a pair of deceptively innocent-looking kitties in a cozy Victorian. The mother of two sons, Tara’s a former librarian whose love of books is evident in her popping-at-the-seams bookcases. It goes without saying that Tara’s husband is thankful for the invention of digital books, thereby eliminating the need for yet another set of shelves. When she’s not writing, reading, or burning dinner, Tara enjoys movie nights, cycling, hiking, DIY projects, collecting dolls, and cheering on her favorite football team.

Please stop by Tara’s website at www.tarakingston.com for information on her upcoming releases and periodic updates on her life as a belle out of water in the Pennsylvania Wilds.

Reviews

[Fizza · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's an absolutely amazing book which kept me intrigued right from the very beginning. It started with lady Evelyn witnessing something she shouldn't have and thus Gerard MacMasters becomes her protector. Although she doesn't trust him completely, rightly so. They are both keeping things from each other, as well as, falling in lust. ;) But will their mutual attraction leads some where or not is an entirely different question.
I loved this book. It's really good and characters are quite well-developed and interesting. If you are a historical fiction fan then this book is perfect for you and even if you're not a fan I still recommend it, because this book might change your preference for historical romance novels. Personally, I love historical romance and highlander even more so this one was just perfect for me.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Evelyn Hunt is known in London as the tarnished bride. The man she was to marry jilted her at the altar and ruined her reputation at the same time. Now she is prepared to live her life how she wants. Her best friend is getting married in Scotland, so she must behave herself so as not to reflect badly with her friends new family. Unfortunately she finds trouble almost immediately.
Gerard MacMasters is an agent for the Antiquities Guild. They look after the old treasures to make sure they don't fall in to the wrong hands. He has been trailing an assassin who seems to take pleasure from her kills, and never leaves loose ends.
A wonderful adventure in the highlands for our heroine. A mystery that everyone says doesn't exist and a handsome Highlander, sometimes in a kilt to distract her.
Our hero tries his best to protect the beautiful Lady from harm without telling her why he is there.
A lovely mystery for our characters to solve , and a killer to catch.
Great entertaining fun with many characters that I look forward to seeing again in other stories.

[Kathleen Roth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author just keeps getting better with each book. Loved the story. Love spy stories. Love sexy Highlanders. Love Strong heroines.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own honest opinion..

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

when Lady Evelyn Hunt witnesses an assassin's escape after they commit a terrible crime, Scottish spy Gerard MacMasters decides he'll do anything to keep her safe, even if it means lying to her to gain her trust. However, Gerard finds himself falling for her, despite the fact that he's already lost someone he loves and isn't ready to care so deeply for another woman again. But with the danger closing in on Lady Evelyn and an assassin determined to silence her, Gerard will do whatever it takes, even if it means keeping her safe but losing the chance for happy ever after?

This was such an enthralling and fascinating read, which I absolutely loved right from the start, as the heroine is determined to be independent and not let her past and the scandal that rocked her world ruin her present and future. However, it was the moment the hero and heroine came face-to-face that this story became very intriguing, especially after what the heroine witnesses. Will Evelyn finally discover what is going on?

As for the dialogue, it was well-written, compelling and I loved the interactions between the hero and heroine, as she does her best to resist the hero. Yet, he's so charming that keeping her distance isn't easy. Moreover, both the main characters were highly entertaining, as the hero has secrets to hide and protecting the heroine is his number one priority. Will Evelyn make things easy or difficult for Gerard? How long will the hero be able to keep his secrets from Evelyn before it's no longer possible? Since she deserves to know the truth with how much danger she's in.

With the main characters, they both have very interesting back stories and I could understand why the hero is so driven to do what he does because of his. He's also charming, protective of the heroine, and I liked how confident he was in winning the heroine's trust, even knowing that it won't come easy after all that she's been through with her ex. While with Evelyn, her back story has made her the resilient, courageous woman she is and I loved how she's picked up the pieces of her life after the scandal. How could her ex do what he did? I also liked how she handled everything she goes through in this story including the unkindness of her best friend's soon-to-be sister-in-law and the danger she faces from what she witnessed.

Overall, Ms. Kingston has delivered a completely engaging and wonderful read in this story where the chemistry between this couple was strong and instantaneous from the moment they met; and the ending had me worried for one of the main characters. Would they be all right? Yet, what I liked most is that the heroine was willing to fight for their happy ever after. Will Gerard realize he feels the same way before it's too late? However, in saying that, I loved the lengths the hero went to in winning back the heroine. I would recommend Lady Evelyn's Highland Protector by Tara Kingston, if you enjoy Historical Romance with a good dose of suspense or books by authors Alyssa Alexander, Jennifer Trethewey, Lori Ann Bailey and E. Elizabeth Watson.

[T. Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is a new author for me, and I didn't realize until I was caught up in the story that there was a previous book in the series. Now, of course, I'll have to buy it, because I really enjoyed this one!

After being left at the altar and then publicly humiliated by her former fiance, Evelyn is determined to live her live independently, with no intention of ever marrying. She's visiting Scotland because her best friend is getting married and wants her as one of her bridesmaids. Once the wedding is over, it's back to London for her. On an outing with the other bridesmaids, she becomes bored and wanders away after spotting a bookstore nearby. After entering the store, she's confused when she finds no one there. And then she hears it: a moan and a plea for help. When she finds an older gentleman on the floor, obviously injured, she flees to get help, but not before he mumbles about dragons eyes and presses a playing card into her hand.

Gerard MacMasters is a spy, tracking a ruthless killer. After Evelyn stumbles into him and pleads for help, they return to the bookstore, only to find it empty. He offers what he hopes is a reasonable explanation, but she is having none of it. She knows what she saw. And who was the mysterious woman she spotted leaving the store through the back door? Unbeknownst to her, she's now a witness to a dangerous game.

Against his wishes, Gerard is assigned to guard her, since everyone knows that the assassin he's been tracking does not leave loose ends. After getting an invite to the wedding, he follows her. When she sees him, she wonders why he is there. Is he after her for some reason?

Gerard is determined to stay as far away from Evelyn as he can while he tries to keep her safe. Having lost his wife to a bullet meant for him, he is determined to not let that happen again.

There's an undeniable attraction between the two of them and each tries to fight it. Of course, he needs to stick to her like glue to keep her safe. She tries to guard her heart but finds it increasingly difficult.

Convinced that the only danger to her is falling for Gerard, Evelyn has no idea how much danger she is really in. It's only a matter of time before the assassin closes in.

Very exciting book!

[A Klue · Rating 3 out of 5]

An assassin on the loose and a mystery underfoot describes this set in Scotland but very English feel to it romantic read. If you are into a gentlemanly but alpha protective hero sworn never to love anyone after losing his beloved wife due to his duty, you might want to watch this Scottish lad meet his match in spirited English lady, Evelyn. She’s got some baggage of her own, thanks to be humiliated at what was supposed to have been the altar of love.

With lengthy, English manor type dinner conversations, discreet flirtatious smiles here and there that eventually become passionate and graphic, steamy scenes, makes this an at your leisure if you please kind of read. You’ll need patience though for it unfolds at a snail’s pace. You will also have to endure both parties resigned through most of it to just walking away and not even attempting to stay together.

There is also one particularly annoying catty behind a fake facade of hospitality and charm hostess throwing a bridal house party who brought to mind she’d be the perfect target in a game of Clue, with a long list of suspects who would love the chance to do her in permanently, with a candlestick or any hard object for that matter.

Overall, I was enjoying it despite it not being very Highlanderish or matching the cover choice, but I did feel the ending could have been scripted better. Wasn’t a fan of hero justifying seducing the heroine to get his information if necessary and just walking away. Neither seemed willing to fight to be together. Just accepted their own reasons for why they could or would never fall in love again.

Title: Lady Evelyn’s Highland Protector, Series: Highland Hearts (Book 2), Author: Tara Kingston, Pages: 312, stand-alone but part of a series, slow paced, some violence, doesn’t get steamy until late in the book, widow spy hero, from wealthy family heroine, proper English manners.

Book 1 - The Highlander Who Loved Me
Book 2 - Lady Evelyn’s Highland Protector

(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.)

[Kelly Tyree · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Lady Evelyn's Highland Protector. It featured suspense, action and romance. I was hooked from the beginning and it kept my attention all the way to the exciting end.

Lady Evelyn has traveled to Scotland from London for the wedding of her best friend. Evelyn has had her share of heartbreak. She was left at the altar by her fiance and false accusations were made against her that damaged her reputation. Now she is in Scotland surrounded by other bridesmaids. Some are easy to get along with and one in particular is not so easy to be around. Evelyn leaves them while they are shopping for hats to venture into a nearby bookstore. When she does she comes upon a crime scene. She sees a woman there and an injured man. She goes to the injured man and he gives her something and makes her promise to keep it safe. Evelyn fleas the scene to run for help. She runs into Gerard MacMasters. What she does not know is Gerard is a spy for the Crown. When she returns to the scene, the man is gone.

Gerard knows the danger Evelyn is in because she has seen the woman killer. He has been pursuing her for a long time. She is a killer on the hunt for a treasure. Gerard vows to protect Evelyn. He does not plan on falling for her but he does. Both have their fair share of heartbreak but they find love in one another's arms. Once the danger level for Evelyn increases, both realize how deeply they care for one another but being married to a spy is not an easy thing and Gerard has convinced himself that despite his love for her, he could not have her as long as he is a spy. Soon he realizes that while he has been enjoying Evelyn's kisses, the threat to Evelyn has gotten in right under his nose. Will he be to late to help save the woman he loves?

[Brigitte · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Historical Mystery Romance is set in 19th century Scotland with a strapping Highlander and an English rose.

Gerard, a spy is currently in Inverness, in persuit of a serial assassin. After losing his beloved as a result of his occupation, he doesn't have serious relationships.

Evelyn is from a wealthy family. She has acquired a tarnished reputation through no fault of her own. She has come to the terms with the unfounded gossips, but guards her heart to avoid further pain.

Whilst attending her best friend's wedding in Scotland, she witnesses an upsetting occurrence in one of the shops. Gerard appears on the scene and gives her reassurance, but not the full story. Her life is in danger and he is now responsible for her protection. They don't have a choice in interacting with one another, and what starts with innocent flirtations soon turns into something more. The problem is that they have both sworn to protect their hearts.

As the mystery of the identity of the assassin and the accomplice is unraveled, more people are in danger. The relationship between Gerard and Evelyn blossoms. The characters and sceneries are well described. The recounting of this story is thrilling and fascinating. There are numerous bumps along the way, but the end is very gratifying. This would appeal to readers with a flair for suspense and mystery in their historical romance.

I was kindly issued with an eARC from the publisher via NetGalley and the views expressed are my personal opinion.

[etoile1996 · Rating 4 out of 5]

in book 2 of the highland hearts series, lady evelyn's highland protector, the aforementioned lady evelyn hunt has never purposely sought scandal. but after her betrothed left her at the altar and ruined her repuation with spurious lies it seems to have a way of finding her. when she takes a berak from a bridal party shopping spree and enters a local bookstore, the last thing she expects is to be the key witness to murder and the one person who can reveal the truth about where some ancient scottish heirlooms are hidden.

not that she realizes any of this. gerard mcmasters was chasing down a heartless murderer. he finally had her in his sights only to find himself momentarily distracted by lady evelyn. that slight delay is all it took for his quarry to slip by him. knowing that lady evelyn will be the infamous mrs. smythe's next target, gerard isn't surprised to learn that he is being cast as her bodyguard.

lady evelyn is wary of him but also intrigued. she tries her best to resist the highlander's charm but it proves difficult, especially when he wears a kilt. there's just something about a man in a kilt.

while gerard is sent to protect evie, the truth is she can fight her own battles, and she does. her past has taught her to trust her instincts and stand up for herself. she would do anything to protect those she loves and that loyalty is rewarded. because they would also do anything for her. even stay away if they believed that would keep her safe. gerard has loved and lost before, so keeping those he loves protected is important to him. to keep evie safe he'd do anything, even leave her behind.

what he needs to learn, as tennyson has, that it is better to have love and lost than to never have loved at all.

**lady evelyn's highland protector will publish on november 27, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/entangled publishing (amara) in exchange for my honest review.

[Amanda Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Lady Evelyn's Highland Protector" was an enjoyable romance read, but was lacking in depth considering the mysterious assassin. Evelyn is in Scotland to see her best friend get married, when she witnesses a woman trying to kill a bookseller. The bookseller presses something into Evelyn's hand before she ran for help.
Gerard is chasing said assassin and tries to convince Evelyn that she didn't really witness an attempt on this man's life. He's a spy who has been chasing this assumed female assassin for months. He runs into Evelyn on the street and then after the attempted murder. He feels guilty for lying to her, but not guilty enough to confide to her his true purpose. He believes the assassin will strike again with Evelyn as her target so he wrangles an invitation to the wedding to protect Evelyn.
I liked Gerard and Evelyn as a couple even when I was annoyed that he wouldn't tell her the truth. But the mystery and hunt for the assassin was lacking. The book is a little slow in getting Gerard and Evelyn together, lots of scene building - long dinners and conversations - I would have enjoyed a faster pace. There was some steam in the last third of the book.
Good story though, enjoyable couple, good writing but I would have enjoyed more of the mystery.

I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!

This novel was a nice read. It involves romance and spies. Lady Evelyn Hunt had her reputation destroyed after being left at the alter years earlier. She believed she loved the man, only to have him break her heart on their wedding day. She became more independent, which she enjoys. However, her friend who has stuck by her is getting married and Evelyn needs to not cause any scandals. However, when in town, she discovers a man bleeding out and he gives her something and asks to keep it safe, which does. However, she did not expect Gerard MacMasters to be a constant presence. Gerard is a Scottish spy and has been chasing this villain for some time. However, when Evelyn unknowing gets involved, he knows he need to protect her at all costs and find out what she knows. He needs to seduce her, but realizes it is more than a seduction. He can never put a woman he cares about in danger again and cannot allow himself to love Evelyn. But no one can truly control their heart's desires. As the killer closes in, Gerard knows he needs to make Evelyn aware of the danger she is in. Having been hurt in the past, Evelyn shes this a way to get information from her. Will they be able to reconcile before the killer strikes?

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful exciting story! Lady Evelyn Hunt, was at the wrong place at the right time to hear the mumbling of a dying man. Visiting Scotland to be a bridesmaid in her best friend's wedding, Evelyn joins the other bridesmaids in a jaunt after the wedding, She wanders off to a nearby bookstore and finds an injured man who tries to give her clues as to what happened. Running for help, she runs into Gerald MacMasters to follow her back to the bookstore. Now in danger of being the focus of that assassin who thinks she knows who he may be, Scottish spy Gerard becomes her bodyguard in order to catch the killer and keep Evelyn safe.. Gerard tries to explain away the situation but there are mysterious clues and information coming out that begins a very dangerous game. As they are together, Evelyn and Alex feel an undeniable attraction, but both have been hurt and fight it as hard as they can. Alex's wife was killed because of him and he is determined nothing will happen to Evelyn. This story has it all.. Danger, Intrigue, suspense and a mystery to be solved while trying to stay alive. This is a definite page turner and I cannot wait to read more by this author..

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Evelyn Hunt ‘The Tarnished Bride’ has travelled to the Highlands for her best friend Sally’s wedding. Whilst shopping in Inverness she goes into a booksellers & witnesses what she thinks is a robbery. Scottish spy Gerard MacMasters is given the job of protecting Evelyn from a merciless assassin, she’s seen the assassin so is in danger, and it’s up to him to keep her alive.
Both of them have suffered loss, Gerard lost his wife & Evelyn was cruelly jilted at the altar & then her reputation ruined. However they are strongly attracted to each other. This is a page turning novel where the paced is very well paced. The characters are well developed. Although Gerard & Evie’s attraction grows by leaps & bounds both have to learn to trust & to stop shielding their hearts. Secondary characters are also well portrayed & there are other relationships blossoming. A well written book that held my interest throughout, I look forward to the other MacMasters finding their HEA

My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Linda · Rating 1 out of 5]

A story that I could not get into. It starts off with a bit of a mystery, the heroine, Evelyn stumbling upon an attempted murder, catching a glimpse of the culprit. When she rushes out to summon help, the hero waylays her and attempts to explain away what she saw in order to cover up the perilous situation she inadvertently witnessed.

In the ensuing chapters, both characters seem to vacilltate between flirtation, lust (which felt way too early and just didn’t mesh well with the pace of the story) and a whole lot of other conflicting behavior. On one side, Evelyn is supposedly a lady laboring under an unjustified tarnished reputation; yet most timest she’s actually brazen and flirty (which did not go well with me). Gerard too didn’t fit what I’d expect of a man mourning the death of a beloved wife, who didn’t think himself deserving of another chance at love. Too many mentions of his too quick physical reaction *snort* to Evelyn. By about a third into the book, I was ready to give up.

ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

[Miriam Wolfe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.

This was an interesting Highland romance with a bit of intrigue thrown in so there was lots of action as Lady Evelyn tries to figure out who is behind the attack on the book store owner and what she should do with the card that he gave her.

Throughout the book, Gerard struggles with his feelings for Evelyn as he watched his wife die in his arms when a shooter hits her instead of him. He knows that as a spy, his life is in danger and he does not want to add to that danger.

Throw in the Scottish version of a mean girl, Catroina, and poor Evelyn has her hands full trying to keep her composure while under attack. I was kind of annoyed with Sally who didn't see the catty remarks that Catroina was constantly making towards Evelyn.

I enjoyed the book and would like to read the other Highland book about Gerard's brother, Connor and his romantic story!

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Evelyn's Highland Protector by Tara Kingston. This is the story of Gerard MacMasters and Lady Evelyn Hunt. Evelyn has been humiliated and left at the alter by her former fiancé. After this she has settled in that she will never marry and goes to enjoy a independent life. Evelyn goes to Scotland to be a bridesmaid in her friends wedding. During an outing she wonders into a books store where she find an older man dying. Before she went to get help he gave her clues and a playing card. Gerard is a spy on the hunter for a killer. Gerard is to keep and eye on Evelyn since she is now a witness to the killing.
Really exciting story!
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[Maria Dariotis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooo amazing!!!

Lady Evelyn Hunt has been dealt a devastating blow to her reputation. What should have been the most joyful day of her life turned into a nightmare. Left jilted at the alter on her wedding day wasn’t enough, the man she loved sent his best freind to acuse her of not being a virtuous woman. A blessing in disguise her tarnished reputation gives her the freedom to live her life as she chooses. Being a wealthy heiress she doesn’t need a man or marriage.
Traveling to Scotland for her best friends wedding she decides to have some fun and some innocent flirting, this time she’ll make sure her heart will not be engaged.
One impromptu decision to visit a bookstore has her witnessing an attempted murder and making eye contact with the killer. This places her in grave danger and in contact with one very alluring Scots man Gerard MacMasters. Their connection is sizzling and they can hardly keep their hands of each other.

Gerard MacMasters comes from a long line of spies his family has been in the business of espionage for generations. Gerard has been tracking the elusive Mrs. Smythe always one step behind but always missing her. Now he has a witness and she’s the English woman who’s stunning beauty has his world turned on its axel. His mission now is to keep her safe, her life is in danger and he’ll do everything in his power to keep her alive. The stakes are high and hearts are on the line he’s determined not to let her affect him but try as he might his heart has been snared hook line and sinker.
He needs to find the killer before Evelyn’s life is endangered and that is something he will not risk.

An exciting story Gerard and Evelyn have a sizzling attraction to each other. Gerard is a hot and sexy highlander spy with intense magnetism. He’s bold, brass and oozes sexuality. Evelyne is smart witty and doesn’t back down from a chalenge she’s brave and willing to put herself at risk for the people she loves. As the mystery unravels the elusive Mrs. Smythe becomes more bolder Evelyne is forced to make a decision before the man she’s fallen in love with becomes the villains target.
Fast paced and intriguing adventure you will not be able to put down. Everything is wrapped up in a gripping sizzling package, a must read!
Tara Kingston has mastered the art of Romance and Mystery!

I received a gifted complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest unbiased opinion.

[KathyNV · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great romantic read! The storyline flows so smoothly from chapter to chapter and I loved the characters!! Lady Evelyn has no idea that a trip to the milliner will take her on the adventure of a lifetime. From a wedding to a mystery woman in black and a handsome Scot named Gerard…questions abound at every turn. What’s a girl to do? Bring a party of bridesmaids together, throw in some handsome Scots on a secret assignment and watch the madness ensue. Mystery, suspense, romance and a little mud add up to one sweet read. Thanks so much to Tara Kingston for the opportunity to experience this tender, funny and spicy story….I loved it!

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in the Highland Hearts series. I honestly must say that I couldn’t remember much about the first in the series and this one fell a little flat for me. Lady Evelyn is a tranished lady who is caught up in a whirlwind mystery. Gerard is a spy who is now sworn to protector her. It was a good premise but the story ended up slowing down so much and just not being very entertaining. I just wasn’t over the moon about it. Solid premise but just not in love with it.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well now Gerard is a bold one, “I kissed ye, lass. No man in this place would question my reasons.” A grin played on his lips. “It’s not as if I tossed up yer skirts and had my way with ye.” There are some requests Gerard has no problem following through, “As ye wish.” With that, he tugged the linen garment over his head." I liked this book, I loved Gerard.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Both Gerard and Evelyn have strong walls around their hearts. They are up for a flirtation, but nothing more than that. You knew the road to each other was going to be bumpy and I was not disappointed. I loved watching them fall in love and enjoyed seeing them realize how they felt.

Good suspense elements thrown in. A fabulous read.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this historical read. Plenty of drama and suspense. Gerard is a spy and after an assassin, Lady Evelyn witnesses something she shouldn’t have and is now in danger. Can Gerard protect her? I liked the story it definitely held my interest throughout. The characters had plenty of depth and great chemistry. A good read.

[Eva · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't know how many pages it's been, but it felt like a never ending story *le sigh*

[Adriana Koog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evelyn and Gerard's story is so much fun! I really enjoyed this author's style! It is packed of action and great chemistry between the characters!

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Publisher's Description:

A Highlander’s vow...
Scottish spy Gerard MacMasters never expected to be playing bodyguard in his mission to catch a killer.

Stunning English beauty, Lady Evelyn Hunt, has witnessed a merciless assassin’s escape—now, she’s in danger, and it’s up to him to keep her alive. Yet, he is drawn to the tempting woman. Passion flares, but he knows better than to fall for her. He’s already lost one woman he loved—never again will he put his heart on the line.

She shields her heart...
After a crushing betrayal at the altar, Lady Evelyn wants nothing to do with love. Kissing a gorgeous rogue is one thing, but surrendering her heart is another matter. When she stumbles upon a mysterious crime, nothing prepares her for the dashing Scot who charges into her life. The hot-blooded Highlander may be her hero—or her undoing.

My Thoughts:

This well written third book of this series was at times difficult to put down but sometimes it was also a difficult read. The beginning was fast paced but it bogged down around the middle. It picked back up near the end and was an overall enjoyable read.
It is easily read as a standalone title even though it is part of a series.

Lady Evelyn has a habit of turning innocent things into scandal. Her betrothed left her at the alter after another man claimed she had been intimate with him. This was a lie but it ruined her none the less.
Now, as she travels with a group of ladies to attend the wedding of her friend she accidentally stumbles upon a crime and the beginning of an unexpected relationship with a dashing Scottish Spy who intends to protect her at all costs.

Gerard has lost the woman he loves once because of his vocation as a spy. He wants nothing to do with love now, but his undeniable attraction to Evelyn and his vow to keep her safe from the dangerous assassin brings them together no matter what he wants.

Will Gerard be able to keep his vow to keep Evelyn safe? Will Evelyn survive her unexpected witnessing of this crime and the possession of the very important clue?

I gave this story 4.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.75 of 5.0 flames.
The intimacy between our hero and heroine needs no explanation. It is both sweet and heated at once.

I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

[Amy Alvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Evelyn and Gerard's story!!

Evelyn never expected that her visit to a bookstore would end up with her witnessing a crime. Getting an unwanted bodyguard also didn't fit into her plans. Gerard is doing his duty in protecting Evelyn, but most of the time it doesn't feel like a duty at all...

I loved the first two books in the series, so I'm very excited to see what the rest of the series gives us!!

[Cindy Coker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read!!! I absolutely loved this book. I loved there heroin, she was very refreshing and the hero was just yummy. I enjoyed the intrigue of the story as well as the back drop. The story was told at a great pace. I thoroughly enjoyed the flirtation and scenes with the h/h, they were well written and gave a glimpse at the h/h behind the persona that society sees.
Great book, great story! A must read for all historical romance lovers!

[Historical Junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Evelyn and Gerard!
Definitely a page turner. Full of spies, suspense and romance. It reads like a murder mystery!
Truly a great read.

I received a copy for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Bonnie Scott · Rating 3 out of 5]

Better than average plot

Glad I decided to read this when coming back to a Highland bodice ripper after some time. Some excitement of a different kind to be sure, kept it from being too easy to predict. I have soft spot for SCOTLAND AND SCOTS😄 BONNIE JEAN SCOTT. K

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

2 - 1/2 stars