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Highland Swords #1

The Scot's Betrayal

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A warrior with a wounded heart.
A lass in desperate need.


Will destiny be on their side in Scotland’s War of Independence?

Destiny sent the famous warrior Alexander Grant three grandsons on the same day, at the same time. Or so the story goes. Alasdair Grant, one of the three, struggles to believe he has any special purpose. The future has never seemed bleaker for Scotland—or for Alasdair’s own family. And yet, he cannot help but wonder if fate has reached for him at last when his grandsire sends him to MacLintock Castle to help Emmalin MacLintock, the very lass who has possessed his thoughts.

Emmalin would have been laird of her castle had she not been forced to marry a controlling English baron. Her heart longs for a different life, a life in which she leads her people and a handsome, strong Highlander stands by her side. A Highlander like Alasdair Grant. When the baron dies unexpectedly, Emmalin is relieved, but that feeling quickly fades when an English garrison shows up to storm her castle. Worse, there’s evidence someone in her life might be in league with them.

Alasdair and one of his cousins arrive in Emmalin’s hour of need, giving Emmalin a glimpse of what life might be like with him by her side. If Alasdair can open his wounded heart to Emmalin, it will bring him one step closer to his destiny, but he’ll need to have faith in himself—and in Scotland—to do so.

237 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 20, 2020

1380 people are currently reading
476 people want to read

About the author

Keira Montclair

80 books523 followers
Keira Montclair is the pen name of an author who lives in South Carolina with her husband. She writes fast-paced historical romance, often with children as secondary characters.

If she’s not writing, she prefers to spend time with her grandchildren. She’s worked as a high school math teacher, a registered nurse, and an office manager. She loves ballet, mathematics, puzzles, learning anything new, and creating new characters for her readers to fall in love with.

She considers her work done well when her readers shed tears over her stories, but there’s always a happy ending! Her bestselling series is a family saga that follows two medieval Scottish clans through three generations and now numbers over fifty books.

Contact her through her website, www.keiramontclair.com.

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5 stars
852 (59%)
4 stars
349 (24%)
3 stars
187 (12%)
2 stars
34 (2%)
1 star
20 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
1,636 reviews15 followers
February 23, 2020
If you haven't given this author a try, I urge you too. She knows how to keep her readers in suspense and has many surprises and twists in her stories. Allow yourself to get immersed and be taken away to another time to forget the troubles of the world. I always feel I've been cocooned and the outside world and reality disappear for awhile. That is what I want when I read.

At times I was frustrated with the H in not seeing what was in front of him. But, as the story progresses you learn more and more what is holding him back and it will break your heart. Oh, how the scene was written with his relatives around him, brought tears to my eyes. I could feel his anguish and pain - what a scene!!

There is only one lovemaking scene, outside of marriage and heat level 2 out of 5. You could feel their love and passion.

As I stated at the beginning, so many surprises and twists that I was dumbstruck - lol. The other villain was a complete shock too. I don't want to figure out the story when you are only 50% through it and you won't with this author. The way Keira describes the tension and scenes I felt like I was watching it all unfold along with them.

I wanted the main character's to be a little older, no idea why I felt this way. I also thought it wasn't for the time period what the H asked the h. But, those are such slight and personal reasons.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance, tad of spice and paranormal.

I received a copy from bookfunnel. I am voluntarily leaving a review and all opinions expressed are my own. (ljb)
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,079 reviews130 followers
February 23, 2020
Scotland 1304
When the English continued to try to take over Scotland, the Scottish Grants continued to defend their land and people! When the Grant cousin's heard a scream and came upon some reivers taking a Scottish Lass, Alasdair Grant did not hesitate to rescue her. Their first meeting and what a grand one it was! He thought her so beautiful and she knew he "was definitely a Highlander, what the English would refer to as a savage Scot. A Scar along his right jawline didn't detract from his appeal one bit-indeed, it enhanced his good looks, it that were even possible." Sigh.. of yes.
Unfortunately Emmalin MacLintock had been forced to marry an Englishman by order of King Edward. She did all she could to keep everything smooth so she could stay in her home with her servants, who were like her family. But it was not a happy union for her.
But fate has a way of pulling people together and when Emmalin's husband dies unexpectedly, Alasdair comes back into the picture.
Keira Montclair has woven a story that touched on all the emotions needed for the perfect tale. Betrayal, loss, heartache and a love that could not be denied. Amazing characters that seem so real and Scotland coming alive as they strived for independence and survival. I cannot wait for the next in this series!!

Profile Image for Carole Burant.
1,277 reviews36 followers
May 6, 2021
Keira Montclair sure knows how to write Highland romances!! From the first page to the last, I was mesmerized by the story. This promises to be a fabulous series and I look forward to catching up on all the books. This is Alasdair's story, he is one of Alexander Grant's 3 grandsons born on the same day at the same time and believe me, their fate is one which will keep you wanting to read more.

When Alasdair comes upon Emmalin and learns that she is in trouble, he will do everything to help her. Danger abounds all around them as the English try to control the Scots, there are secrets begging to be revealed and a traitor amongst them. Definitely a well written story with lots of excitement and a touch of the paranormal.

Easily a 5 star read!!
Profile Image for Lana Birky.
1,698 reviews23 followers
February 23, 2020
Recommended and rated this book
1 star2 stars3 stars4 stars5 stars
I can't believe the emotional journey I experienced & getting through the tears (and sobs) was difficult but the humor, fun, love of family kept me going. You will also experience treachery, action & the love between Alasdair Grant & Emmalin MacLintock will tug at you heart. I highly recommend this wonderful story & I would like to thank you, Keira Montclair for creating such an entertaining book.

I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
Profile Image for Jenna.
2,010 reviews21 followers
December 12, 2020
Pleasing characters. Short chapters.
Story developed too slowly for me.
This is the first book in a new series which is the start of a 3rd spin-off series featuring "the clan grant". (basically Alex Grant's grandkids, the hero of Clan Grant series) Having not read those books, I wasn't lost.
If you enjoyed this then I would recommend reading the rest of the books & then going back & reading the other series by this writer. (ie. the other series regarding this Scottish clan)

Profile Image for Jas.
699 reviews13 followers
November 10, 2022
This was a fun read. It's kind of sad that timing wise it makes sense that some of the original family members have passed away at this point. I'm curious what the common plot will be across this series, but I'm a bit glad that the magical/supernatural elements are present from the beginning. I think in some of the past Grant/Ramsay series it was a pet peeve that it was randomly relevant towards the end of the series.
Profile Image for Laura Oliver.
2 reviews
February 22, 2020
I just got done reading the book. It’s was so good it took me 4 straight hours of reading. It did not disappoint. Without giving anything away, chapter 22 makes me cried my eyes out. I love the Grants and how you bring them to life. It helped that I just reread Alex and Maddie’s story the other day. Can’t wait for the rest of the series
Profile Image for Maria .
2,486 reviews23 followers
July 5, 2020
Brilliant!

Deserves 10 stars in my opinion. I read and always post a review, between 225-350 books a year. I have read and own every single one of this author's stories and series from their first publications. They are all connected, even though you can read them as stand alone series. But you are so much more fulfilled when you have read them all. For me personally this author, at this moment in her career with this story, is right up there with Monica McCarty. I have to say that this story is probably my all around favorite of all of Montclair's series.

There are only less then a dozen books that I have read that have made me sob and feel gutted with emotion and the same time, to the extent I have had to put the story down and walk away...and The Scot's Betrayal is one of them. This, for me is a true testament of this author's growth with her gifted craft.

Alasdair and Emmalin's story is enthralling, but it is Alasdair and his grandsire who will implant themselves into your hearts. Chapter 22 gutted me. This book is definitely a keeper for me! One I want to keep in my library. This story by the end had a supreme grasp on my heart.

Magnificent!

Profile Image for Ann L.
4,795 reviews39 followers
February 23, 2020
This is a whole new series starting with Alisdair Grant, the great Alexander's Grandson, he meets Emmerline MacLintock when he saves her from an abduction and thinks nothing of the encounter until his Grandsire has a dream that she is in danger and needs their help.

Be sure to have a box of tissues at the ready because even though Ms Montclair has HEA's I was physically crying with one chapter.

I enjoyed this so much I'm going back to read the beginning with Alex and Maddie's story.

I received a copy and I am voluntarily leaving my own honest opinion
6 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2020
Amazing as always!!

This book is amazing! As always her story telling is exquisite. You can feel the strong emotions coming from thesr characters. I also loved the unexpected twists. Everyone is saying how they cried reading this book. Yes, you will cry, but fear not loyal readers. We just need to trust Keira would never give us more then we can handle. SPOILER for those to afraid to read because they fear for Alex. Don't worry, he has a lot more to do yet. But that's all you'll get from me.
Profile Image for Charline Romine.
824 reviews
February 16, 2021
A bit of mystical doings

A five star but I don’t like to read filthy language and descriptive sex scenes thus the three rating. This would be such an excellent book if it were a clean read!
Profile Image for Alison.
852 reviews5 followers
March 11, 2020
The Scot's Betrayal
Keira Montclair
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

On the same day, at the same time the fates sent the famous warrior Alexander Grant three grandsons. Or so the story goes. Alasdair Grant, one of the three has always struggled in believing that he had any special purpose in life. Sadly enough the future seems rather bleak for Scotland or for Alasdair's own family. He can't help, but wonder with fate as fickle as it can be if it has finally reached out to him and maybe given him that much needed purpose when his grandsire sends him off to MacLintock Castle to help the beautiful Emmalin MacLintock, the very lass who has possessed his every thought.

Emmalin should have been Laird of her own castle but instead she had been forced to marry a very controlling English baron. She longs for a different life, a life where she leads her people with a handsome Highlander by her side. A Highlander like Alasdair Grant. Then when the baron suddenly dies, Emmalin is more then relieved, but quickly that feeling fades to something else when an English garrison shows up to storm her Castle. Now all she feels is despair and fear especially with evidence presenting itseldlf that someone in her life, someone close to her might be in league with them.

Alasdair and one of his cousins arrive just when Emmalin needs help the most, giving her a glimpse of what life might be like with him by her side forever. Now if Alasdair could and would open his severely wounded heart to Emmalin, it will bring him one step closer to his destiny. The only problem is he will have to have faith? Faith in himself. Faith in Emmalin's love, and faith in Scotland if he will ever be able to live the life he not only deserves but is destined to have.

There is so much more then meets the eye in this wonderful novel, but sadly I cannot explain more or I will spoil it for you so I believe you will have to read it for yourself.

Keira Montclair has more then outdone herself this time. I have tears running from my eyes and they are tears of incredible joy. This book is utterly fabulous and enchanting all at the same time. Alasdair and Emmalin were perfect together. You could feel their love sizzle right of the pages. Alasdair was everything you could ever want in a well bread Highlander with plenty of honor and Emmalin was the perfect lady with a spirited side that suited her so well. I can't say enough good things about this book. Ms. Montclair now has me hooked on this series and there is one story I can't wait to read and that is Dyna's story. I have a feeling it will be amazing.
Profile Image for Judy.
3,275 reviews
February 26, 2020
The Scot's Betrayal by Keira Montclair
The Highland Swords Series Book One
Alasdair Grant is the son of Jake and Aline and grandson of the great Alexander Grant. He was born on the same night as two of his cousins; Elshander and Alick. Along with their cousin Dyna they have their work cut out for them. Their beloved Scotland is in trouble and they are determined to do what they can to save it from the English.

Emmalin MacLintock has lost her beloved father and even though she was trained to be the laird, the English king wanted her land for England...she was forced into marriage with a cruel English baron. But something is amiss and it's not good.

After saving Emmalin from reivers, Alasdair can't get the beautiful Scot out of his head. Unfortunately, she was married. Still, if she needed them to help her in any way...Clan Grant would be there for her. Wonderful story and characters, although it is definitely a tissue alert if you cry easily.
**Sexual content
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Profile Image for Paulina .
169 reviews
March 4, 2020
Grants go on

As with every book and series dealing with the grants this was a wonderful read. I wasn’t sure I was ready to jump so far forward with this family yet, but I trusted the author and am glad I did. Based in1304 the English King tried to take over a Scotland. When a women had to marry who the king and other men chose. Emmalin was forced to marry an Englishman when her father died. Having property and wealth the King of England chose a favorite Baron. Alex is much older and watching his grandchildren grow into wonderful men and women. Alasdair has seen many things that haunt him. Emmalin is someone he sees that makes him want things he never wanted before. With the advice of his grandfather, he works to protect Emmalin. We learn a lot about the Grant family and what transpired through the years. Alex is a wonderful respect Grandfather that gives excellent advice not only of war but love. The story takes you through many turns and all is revealed in the end. Loved the book.
6 reviews
July 2, 2020
I liked this book, the storyline, but I didn’t love it. I had to fight to finish the book, I just thought Alasdair was too immature to be Alex Grant’s Grandson, until I realized he was only 19. I know 19 yrs old was an age of greatness in circa 1300 for warriors who fought in horrible battles of that time. But instead of coming off as a hardened warrior and potential leader, I thought he came across as immature and unprepared to be the future Laird/Chieftain. I just didn’t fine a whole lot of depth to his character. All other “Grant” characters had depth and purpose to their characters...they were strong, determined people with their own special talents and knew who they were and what they were fighting for. I didn’t get that same “Grant” backbone and purpose from Alasdair. I like him and all his cousins and am curious as to what will happen in the next two books, especially with the power of the ⚔️ swords and other items from the circle of lightening. So I am hooked and am looking forward to the next book in the series. I wish I had more positive to say. Cheers!🍻
Profile Image for Cindy Cooke.
523 reviews5 followers
June 19, 2020
5 star beginning to a great series!

Three healthy boys, born on the same day, each the grandson of the Laird of the clan of Grant. Each was raised by their parents to be true sons of Scotland, and they grew up alongside each other and their younger cousin under the watchful eyes of grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles. Scotland was now under siege by England's ruthless king, and these four grandchildren, loyal to their clan and Scotland, were determined to fight for their heritage and land. When their grandfather sent them to aid the daughter of a close ally who had been forced to marry an English baron after tbe death of her own beloved father, a bond of epic strength was forged with their blades and hearts.
I got this book in a giveaway. So glad I gave this author a try. Ms Montclair has masterfully woven a tale of love, treachery, and betrayal into a delicious read. I just got the next in the series, and cannot wait to read it. Thanks for a great goodread!
2 reviews
April 6, 2020
Exciting new series

I'm so excited for this new series! And very happy that the original man who started it all, Alexander Grant will be featured prominently in these stories. I have faithfully read each of the series and was hoping Keira would do another after The Band of Cousins . It did not disappoint. As other reviewers have mentioned there is a heartbreaking moment of where I did cry for the loss of a favourite Grant. And it looks like these stories will also invole some supernatural aspects which will develop more as the series goes on. Hoping for Els and if I'm to hope Joya's (?) story next.......can't wait!
Profile Image for Amparo TD.
1,323 reviews15 followers
August 6, 2024
Libro leído para el reto literario del grupo de FB Yo soy una musa de Juani Hernández.
Seguimos con la familia Grant, pero esta vez es con los nieto. Tres de ellos (Alisdair, Elshander y Alick) nacieron el mismo día, y luego esta Dyna que es mas pequeña. Conocen a Emmalin y su marido ingles cuando son atacados y los cuatro primos los ayudan y salvan a ella. Es un libro lleno de amor, amistad, fraternidad, celos, envidias, traiciones, puntos de paranormal. En este caso Emmalin se tiene que casar por orden del rey Edward con un Barón ingles, y sus tierras pasan a ser de Inglaterra y no de Escocia.
Profile Image for Kathy Brickert.
3,464 reviews18 followers
Read
February 21, 2020
Wonderful Adventures!!!

Oh my, oh my, oh my! What a thrilling exciting story! I loved it! Keep your Kleenex handy, you will cry during this one! And laugh and smile most of the way through! Just enough paranormal addition to keep it interesting! How we hate to see our favorite characters growing old but the new grandchildren coming up promise to keep us young! Just like real life I think. Don't miss this one! And Kiera, hurry up with the next! Can't wait to see which grandchild comes next! Great read!!
573 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2020
As with all the other books I’ve read from this author, I love this story. If you have read her previous series with the Grants and Ramsay’s then you already know the main characters are the 3rd generation of those clans. I love the strong characters, especially the women (in a time when that was not widly encouraged). This story has family, friendship, loyalty, loss and love. And brings with it a lot of emotions. It’s always easy to get lost in one of Keira’s book. I really enjoyed this story and look forward to what the future holds for these characters.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
130 reviews
February 23, 2020
The Scot’s Betrayal
This is Book 1 of the new series Highland Swords. It is the beginning of a new era in Clan Grant as the importance of Alasdair, Elshander and Alick's births on the same day become defined. Dyna and Emmalin have their own set of talents and strengths to bring to the table. It goes without saying that more Grants will join this group to make Clan Grant as strong, if not stronger than it was before. You must be prepared for the.......oops sorry, I promised no spoiler alerts!!!!!!
251 reviews7 followers
September 2, 2020
Example Of One Of the Best Of Historical Romance Books

Again another story of my favorite Family/extended family/Clan. This is full of Romance, intrigue, adventure, magic, and a spot of sweet sensuality. I am never disappointed and am entertained by the humor and excitement. This is story of three men and one very unique young lady that are cousins, and their adventures. It is, at times a real nail biter. There are several beloved reoccurring characters. I would definitely series in order. I truly recommend reading.
Profile Image for Shirley Hamlod.
1,114 reviews7 followers
May 28, 2024
This was an interesting first story in this series. I like the strong characterisation of both the male and female characters. It has an interesting plot twist and lots of details to describe the time period. Emmalin is a pawn in the King of England’s game as he wants her land and castle under English rule. It is difficult to see how she will escape her fate. Alasdair is the bonny grandson of a friend of her father’s who is instantly attracted to Emmalin. How will all their problems be solved so that they can be together?
734 reviews1 follower
February 25, 2020
A moving story you will not be able to put down. The action starts on the first page and keeps going until the end. If you have read Band of Cousins, you will know some of the characters in this book.
You will cry because of heartache and cry tears of happiness for them.
The twists and turns will keep you enthralled, just when you think you know where the plot is going, it turns on you and takes you in a whole new way.
One of the best!!!
Profile Image for Angela.
569 reviews
February 25, 2020
I love Alexander Grant! I was sadden to learned that Maggie died! Along with the news of the dead; Jake and Aline. @#!! 😭

I bawled my eyes out when Alasdiar was in grief and shouting out his pain. Because his parents passed.

This series is different than the 3 series. (Clan Grant), (The Highland Clan), and (The Band of Cousins). This one has magical in it.
Strange but I'm intrigued. I'm excited to see what's next!

Alasdiar ♥️Emmalin
698 reviews7 followers
October 14, 2021
Cousins

Four cousins destined to fight for Scotland Alasdair is the first to meet his destiny in the form of Emmalin MacLintock who has been forced to.marry an Englishman. But something is amiss and she's in danger. MS Montgomery certainly knows how to capture your heart and turn it inside out. This story made me cry and then sigh when love conquers I can't wait to read the next story in this series
27 reviews2 followers
November 8, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. I have read all of the previous series and loved them. So far each book is better than the last.

This story definitely had twists and turns. When I read about Alasdair’s encounter with his grand sire and uncles near the end of the book I was in tears. I never suspected the full extent of his loss and was deeply saddened.

I love this author. This new series is drawing a lot from the history of the period.
24 reviews1 follower
May 26, 2022
Love of Scotland

I loved this book and the characters. I started reading Alexander and Maddie's story 'Rescued by a Highlander' and fell in love with the Grant Clan. I have laughed throughout all the books and loved Logan Ramsey's actions. This is the first book that made me cry because of Maddie's passing. If you love a good Scottish tale start with Alex and Maddie you will love them. Enjoy!!
29 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2023
Amazing!

I absolutely love all her books. There are good writers, but she is gifted. I have many favorite authors, but she has heart and natural talent. Her books have made me cry because she brings such life and feeling between her characters. Alexander is my all time favorite and his scenes with his grandson will touch your heart. Her characters are truly heart-warming, funny and smart. You must read her if you love Highlanders.
12 reviews
February 23, 2020
The scot’s betrayal

Keira montclair what can I say. What a wonderful book full of hope love sadness and the true meaning of family. My heart broke into a thousand pieces but could not put it down. It is now 2.ooam Monday morning. Thankyou so much for the books you write keep the coming
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews

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