Fyfa's Sacrifice

Guardians of Alba #2

by Jayne Castel

Few secrets can be kept forever. She married him for her cause—but her real identity puts them both at risk. Sacrifices and second chances in Medieval Scotland.

Fyfa is tired of keeping secrets from her husband. However, her marriage to the steward of Stirling Castle is based on a lie. Belonging to an order of druidesses sworn to protect Scotland from invaders, Fyfa's dedicated her life to preserving Scottish freedom. She wed him in order to gain access to those who rule Scotland—and now, five years later, she's locked in a marriage to a man who distrusts her.

Hume Comyn thought he knew his wife—but with each passing year, he realizes he does not. Fyfa's mysterious ways lead him to believe she has taken a lover. He has no idea who she really is.

Estranged and distrustful of each other, Fyfa and Hume are locked together in Stirling Castle as the English lay siege. But after Edward of England unleashes a new weapon that spells Scottish defeat, husband and wife must work together to help protect the man who will save Scotland.

But can they also rescue the ruins of their marriage?

Book Two of the Guardians of Alba series, Fyfa's Sacrifice takes you back to 14th Century Scotland amidst the Wars of Scottish Independence. Immerse yourself in political intrigue, Celtic mysticism, betrayal, high-adventure, and steamy romance.

Genres: Historical, Romance, Medieval Romance, Medieval, Historical Romance, Witches

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 17, 2021

About the author

Multi-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.

Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.

When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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Jayne loves to hear from her readers - email her at: contact@jaynecastel.com

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Reviews

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite Jayne Castel reads to date. 4.5 stars

[Lail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfa's Sacrifice: A Medieval Scottish Romance (Guardians of Alba Book 2)
This is the second book in the Guardians of Alba series. I found this book to be a great story, very well written, easy to read, and an overall pleasure to read! If you didn’t read my review on book one, Nessa's Seduction, this series takes place during the historical timeline of the infamous King Edward (aka: Longshanks) and Robert the Bruce, and includes real historical events. I’ve also enjoyed reading about ancient Celtic Druidic and Wiccan priestesses’ and their practices, who in this story are Scotland’s Guardians of freedom, giving this intense drama a magical twist. This is a great read with a engaging and steamy second chance romance between a husband and wife who have been torn apart by secrets and lies and now face the surrender of the castle and their freedom, to the English and possibly their lives. I couldn’t put this story down until the last page was through. This author doesn’t disappoint!

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do love a reconciliation romance! The angst in this one (especially at the beginning) is really A+.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfa's Sacrifice
Guardians of Alba #2
Jayne Castel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fyfa is so tired of keeping the secrets that she keeps from her husband. Her marriage to the steward of Stirling Castle is based on a lie. She belongs to an ancient order of druidesess that are sworn to protect Scotland from invaders. She wed her husband just so that she could gain access to those who rule Scotland and now, 5 years later, she's locked in a marriage to a man who distrusts her immensely.

Hume Comyn thought that he knew his wife well, but as the years go by he realizes that he was wrong. He believes that Fyfa has taken a lover and he aims to find out who she's cheating with. He has no idea who she really is, but he's about to find out, and it shakes him to his core.

As the English lay siege to Stirling Castle Hume and Fyfa are cooped up together, with no where to go. After the English king, Edward of England unleashes a new weapon that can't be beat, they have to give Stirling Castle to the English. But now husband and wife are going to have to work together to help protect the man who will save Scotland. Will they be able to put the past aside and do what's right? Or will Fyfa have to do it alone without Hume?

As usual Jayne Castel is absolutely fabulous. I have never read a book by this author that I didn't enjoy. This story had me from the start and I couldn't put it down. Fyfa and Hume are the perfect couple and you can tell that they love each other so very much. They fight for freedom and what they believe in and they do it so well. As usual Ms. Castel I truly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next story.

[Rasana Atreya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't typically read romances anymore (I read mostly crime/women's/literary), but one of Jayne Castel's previous books caught my attention, and I've been a fan ever since. All of Jayne's books (that I've read anyway) are set in medieval Scotland. They are meticulously researched, and Fyfa's Sacrifice is no different. Her heroes are swoon-worthy, and her heroines have grit. What I particularly loved about this book, other than the political intrigue, was that the heroine, Fyfa, is unapologetically strong and confident, and Hume is secure enough to be vulnerable with her. The last few chapters are beautiful.

Note: I received an ARC copy of this from the author. My review is uninfluenced by her.

[Lynn P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfa's Sacrifice: A Medieval Scottish Romance by Jayne Castel is the second book in the Guardians of Alba Series. Fyfa is a druidess who has sworn to protect Scotland. She wed Hume Comyn, the steward of Sterling Castle, not for love but for information that would help her and her order protect Scotland.

Hume realizes that Fyfa does not love him and he is trying to understand “why him?”. Why did she choose him? She is a puzzle to him and his answers are not making him happy.

Besides the romance, Longshanks is laying siege to Stirling Castle. With the siege comes food shortages, stress from the continuous bombardment and the possibility of an early demise.

This book has everything: love, hate, war, deception, adventure, friendship and a druidess order. I loved every word and can’t wait for the next book in this series!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharon McCluskey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great tale from this author. I love that many characters referenced in the telling of the story are based on real people and events. This is a perfect blend of fiction and actual historical events and places. The two main characters are married but have an increasingly wider divide caused by secrets, insecurities and distrust. Their road to finding their HEA is fraught with dangers of war, and dark magic. Loved both characters and was pulling for them because they are noble and caring. Great escape that had me reading into the wee hours of the morning. Enjoy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Fyfa’s Sacrifice
By Jayne Castel

Series: Guardians of Alba, Book #2

Publisher: Winter Mist Press, 273 pages

Release Date: 9/17/2021

Overall Rating: 5 Gold Stars

Blog Rating: 5 Saltire Flags


Stirling Castle
Year of our Lord 1304

The heroine of this book is Fyfa, who was a foundling, abandoned by her parents. Most likely from a birthmark on her leg that most likely scared her biological parents, Luckily she was found by Colina. Colina is the High Druid Bandruì, of an ancient order who were the Guardians of Alba, Alba means Scotland in Scottish gaelic. Colina found two other foundling’s at the time too, they were named Nessa and Breanna who grew up and became the three best of friends and sisters of their hearts. Now the trio born on the same day all took an oath as Druidess, one is they can not bare children as they wouldn’t be able to continue their important missions with bairn’s clinging to their skirts.

Stirling Castle
Year of our Lord 1304


Again this story is set during The Wars of Scottish I ndependence as Alba Guardian Fyfa is miserable that her marriage to Hume Comyn, the steward of Stirling Castle, is centered around dishonesty and deception. Unfortunately this is causing extreme jealousy on Hume’s part due to Fyfa’s beauty and flirtatious nature with men. Hume also comes from not an unhappy home with a mother who mentally abused him. Unfortunately this made Hume shy and caused a lot of self esteem issues and even a virgin when he married Fyfa. Hume has convinced himself that his wife is sleeping with other men which is all untrue. So they have not lived as husband and wife or had marital relations in a couple years. On top of that everyone who lived in Stirling castle was near starving living on very little nourishment! The English now had the castle surrounded and were taking shots at the people protecting the castle. They also build this huge trebuchet monstrosity that was tearing a hole into the castle, besides shooting missiles and hammering the castle walls! This eventually would take over Stirling castle and they wouldn’t have much choice but to surrender to the enemy but would they English even let them live?

Even though Fyfa’s true mission is to protect him and the people of Scotland, but their marriage is set on confidential information that she is not allowed to share. Fyfa is not blameless as she posed as a scullery maid and she did used a little bit of her witchery magic to get Hume’s attention to work faster and to get information about Stirling Castle since he is the castle steward. Yet to her surprise Hume had fallen completely and hopelessly in love with Fyfa. Fyfa has given her oath as a member of this secret order, the Guardians of Alba, who are druidesses and have given their oath to protect Scotland from wicked sassenach raiders who are set to destroy their homes, lands and the lives of the Scottish people. The leader of the sassenach’s is the English King, Edward I, Edward Longshanks, the Hammer of the Scots.

The Alba Guardians are also aware that Robert the Bruce will somehow be Scotland’s savior in the foreseeable future. As this man will be the next Scottish King so Fyfa must do everything to protect Robert the Bruce. The other problem outside their marriage is that an evil, powerful, witch, Lamia Delamare is with the English. She is a powerful witch with her own familiar plus the English Queen’s ladies companion, so this witch is in a very powerful position at the Hammer’s side. Fyfa could be in a very dangerous position like her sister Nessa (Nessa’s Seduction, book 1) had been and possibly Robert the Bruce. This man will most likely save Scotland.

Will Hume ever trust Fyfa again with so much suspicion in his heart? Can Fyfa make Hume realize she has always been faithful and he is the only man she wants. Plus will the hammer even allow them to even live? Read and find out!

Jayne Castel pens another engaging masterpiece that I could not put down. I was absolutely mesmerized by this action packed riveting story. It is filled with my favorite reading ingredients: true factual history with real historical iconic characters like King Robert the Bruce of Scotland and King Edward I of England. Plus weaved with a second chance fictional romance that I absolutely loved! I must admit I did shed a few tears reading this magnificent, fast paced, page turner! In my opinion this book was absolutely brilliant and I also loved the first book in this series Nessa’s Seduction too, so I am looking forward to Breanna’s Surrender too which will be the third book in this extraordinary series.

Jayne Castel has quickly become one of my favorite authors who weaves true history with a brilliant flare for fictional historical romance. She does a phenomenal amount of research that I find extremely impressive too. In addition she loves Scotland as much as me! I absolutely and unequivocally highly recommend this spectacular book. You can read this exhilarating book as a stand alone book too but I highly you read this entire fun series!

Guardian’s of Alba by Jayne Castel

One: Nessa’s Seduction
Two: Fyfa’s Sacrifice
Three: Breanna’s Surrrender: TBR In 11/25/

Disclaimer: Disclaimer: I received an advance readers copy and agreed to do an honest, fair, review and blog through Booksprout. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.

[Carol · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75 Stars

Hm, well it was interesting. Much like book one I felt it dragged a bit here and there. Admittedly I found myself skimming overly detailed scenes.

I really liked Hume. I think he was a lovely hero. He was the type who didn't know their self worth and needed the love of a strong woman make him see himself through her eyes. Sadly his bitter mother did a number on him and made him not only distrust women but himself. He was quite shy from what were told before meeting Fyfa and needed her witching talent to push him past his initial shyness.

For me, I thought Hume was a great hero because you usually get to see them grow in confidence and into themselves. Sadly though as usual with this author we don't particularly see much of that at all. We're told plenty of how Hume use to be before the BF (before Fyfa) era but when the book opens we see who he has become AF (after Fyfa) and that's a hard distrustful and jealous man.

Don't get me wrong, I understood why Hume evolved into who we meet when the book opens but I felt the author wasted all her time and efforts on the overall series plot than the characters themselves. Which is why we never truly saw any growth from either Fyfa or Hume. Hume simply goes from bitter and distrustful to willing to understand, forgive and try again with Fyfa. No true catalyst occured to make the sudden transition believable or satisfying for me.

As for Fyfa, well I wasn't her biggest fan. It was hard to like her tbh. Much like Nessa and it seems all the ladies of the coven and Guardians of Alba... they're a bit selfish and single-minded in their task to protect Scotland. As a reader it's difficult to relate to these women and their dedication to their country. Especially because it seems to have hardened them and reckless with who they have to use or manipulate to achieve their goals. Which ironically is what the bad witch does and yet their the good guys. 🤷🏻‍♀️😂

Anyway, Fyfa was an okay heroine. I didn't like how she treated Hume and how she maneuvered him into marriage. He didn't either when she finally admits the truth. The only thing I truly liked about her was her choosing to be completely honest and that included telling him everything about the order and who she really was. She didn't hold back. Unlike Nessa in book one who just kept lying I appreciated that Fyfa realized honesty was the only way to save her marriage and she went all in. I loved that she was desperate to save their marriage even when all hope seemed lost every time Hume told her he could n ver forgive her.

Overall it was an okay read if a bit boring tbh. I liked them as a couple but I felt all the goings on of the story with the siege and evil witch and warmonger English king just overwhelmed any romance. This for me was barely a romance.

I especially didn't like the pacing. I felt the entire book was one big depressive episode due to the nature of the first half being centered on Fyfa and Hume's failing marriage. Sadly little came of their scenes together. No real progression or conversations were had and I felt like it was being dragged out for no reason.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

SETTING: Stirling Castle, Scotland  
Early July, 1304

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have been in Stirling Castle when King Edward I was attacking it? What did the women do? How did they manage the food stores to last the months of the Seige? What were the inhabitants thinking when they watched the giant trebuchet “WarWolf” being built? And, what happened when the castle finally surrendered?
Ms. Castel takes us back in time and place, so that we can see, hear, and live with the inhabitants of the Castle in these tumultuous times. Sticking closely to the history and the known facts, she has created characters that we can easily identify with, which brings us into her story, living it through her characters. The H and h have their flaws clearly visible to us, which adds to a sense of reality about them. We can understand how a husband and wife can sabotage their marriage by incomplete truths, hidden secrets, and unfounded jealousy. Yet, despite their flaws and the traumatic times they are enduring, we cheer for them to overcome the obstacles to their happiness, and are happy when they finally pass the hurdles!
In addition to the fictional characters, are the real-in-history characters that truly were involved in the Seige. We find Robert the Bruce, before he has taken the kingship of Scotland, as having been alongside King Edward in the closing act- - not as a participant, but as an observer. (No doubt Edward hoped to thus intimidate Robert so that he would not ever oppose Edward’s rule.) King Edward’s son is present, although not playing any active part at this time, as was his pregnant second wife. The actual man in charge of Stirling at that time, Sir Oliphant and his wife are in their proper roles, and we learn their fates at the conclusion of the action.
The drama of the actual event would be sufficient to hold the interest of history-lovers. The addition of the fictional characters adds humanity and a wonderful story about love discovered by a husband and wife after 5 wasted years of rather loveless marriage, which adds depth to the story and lessons in living for all of us.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mia Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jayne Castel’s “Fyfa's Sacrifice: A Medieval Scottish Romance” Is book 2 in the Guardians of Alba Series. Fyfa and Humes story is beautifully alluring!

Throughout the summer April 1304 – 24 July 1304 Longshanks, Edward I, lay siege to Stirling castle with almost continuous bombardment with his new trebuchet. The castle walls are giving under the constant bombardment and the people are running out of food. With the constant threat of being overtaken tensions were high.

Fyfa is a Druid witch sworn to protect Scotland and member of a secret coven, the Guardians of Alba. The coven‘s goal is to keep Scotland free from English rule. She used her powers, charms and potions to charm Hume, Steward of Sterling Castle five years ago and he had fallen in love with her. She did so in order to gain access to those who rule Scotland and relay information to her coven who are fighting on all fronts. For five years now she has been trapped in a loveless marriage which is in name only. Her secrets have caused her husband to mistrust her and they are even more estranged. Fyfa is miserable at the state of her marriage and how far it’s fallen. Hugh is certain that she’s having an affair with another man. Can these to ever reconcile their differences? As if the tension of the marriage was not bad enough there is now the siege. Fyfa’s duty will always be to protect Scotland and honor her oath. Now she must also protect Robert the Bruce for the Guardians of Alba know that he will one day be king.

This is captivating, emotional story filled with heart wrenching tension and pain, suspense, action, betrayal, danger, second chance and love. The authors research is astounding. The characters are likable, lovable, wretched and well developed, flaws and all. Her imagery is amazingly revealing. The writing is superb with a sound plot and intriguing storyline rendering a beautiful love story. I was held spellbound from beginning to end, rooting for Fyfa, Hume and Scotland. If you like stories of medieval Scotland and the mysterious mystique of the old ways then this is the book for you, for the author has magically woven a story and series around the true historical events.

Than you Ms. Castel for this beautiful, and fascinating story of a love for country and man.

[Space Cowgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

War of Witches 💀

ADULT Historical Medieval Scottish Castle 🏰Siege Adventure with Romance💕 and Druid Influencers.
Second Chance Love💘.
This is a Fictional Romance 💕with Paranormal Elements, based on the TRUE History of Scotland.🏰

Stirling Castle🏰 , Scotland 1304.
Longshanks, Edward I👺, is busy laying siege🔥🔪 to Stirling Castle 🏰, and the long summer of his bombardment of the walls is starting to wear not only on the fortress castle🏰 but also the inhabitants. The inhabitants of Stirling 🏰 are almost out of food!

Fyfa,💃💋 is a druid witch, and member of a secret coven whose goal is to keep Scotland free of the English. However, Her powers are not strong, as compared to others in her coven, the Guardians of Alba. She has no familiar, or animal aide ,to help her spy or take messages to the coven in the far north of Scotland🏰.

Fyfa💃💋 has used her powers , charms, and potions to beguile💕 and marry👰 Hume🐺🍆⛲🔪, the Steward for Sir William Oliphant, Governor of Stirling🏰. She is in a great place to hear and relay the latest news to her sisters, but she has become guilt ridden over the five years she has been married to Hume.🐺🍆⛲🔪 She is keeping secrets from Him, and their strained marriage👰 is in name only now. Did she ever love 💘him? Is it too late!? He doesn't trust her anymore.

Nessa, one of Fyfa's coven sisters, and the subject of book one in this series, had infiltrated Longshanks army as a healer, and had discovered Lamia,👹 another witch, with great evil💀 powers helping Longshanks!

While the armies battle🔪🔥, these witches💀 do their utmost behind the scenes to secretly aid their chosen side!

ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU.

In true history, Stirling Castle 🏰 changed hands several times.
For this novel, and the others in this series, Author Castel📚 wants readers to believe that Druid witches💀 were actually capable of true magic or paranormal powers. Were they?

ADULT scenes are 3 on a scale of 1-5.

[Chi Chang · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our heroine Fyfa and hero Hume defend their home against King Edward "Longshanks" while trying to fix their deteriorating marriage. Fyfa is a skilled druidess who has secrets of her own that she can't tell her husband until she has no choice. Meanwhile, Hume tries to cope with his insecurities and suspicions that his wife is cheating on him.

This book was a wonderful read - our two heroes needing to come to terms with their own issues in order to pick up the pieces left of their marriage and possibly make it work. Fyfa faces opening her heart for something other than the need to protect Scotland while Hume with his own identity and what the future holds for their marriage.

I love that Fyfa fights for their marriage despite the obstacles she faces - something she could choose to abandon considering the suspicions that Hume has towards her. It's hard for her to convey her feelings into words which the author did a great job of showcasing. Although he's the steward and has a beautiful wife, Hume doesn't understand why she chose him and he wonders if he's actually good enough for her. This book has quite a few steamy scenes, one that was heartbreaking and bittersweet. I really enjoy how they eventually come together and get the happy ending that they deserve.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the “Guardians of Alba” series. Although it includes events and characters from book one it could still be read as a stand alone story. Although if possible, it would probably be enjoyed more if book one was read first.

This is a fictional story set during the historical siege of Stirling Castle by Edward Longshanks in 1304. Jayne Castel takes us back in time to when this siege is taking place. She gives wonderful descriptions of this event.

Fyfa is a member of an order “The Guardians of Alba”. One of their missions is to keep the English King out of Scotland.
Hume Comyn is the steward of Stirling castle.
Fyfa married Hume Comyn so she could gain information to help the order in their quest to save Scotland. Will she find out too late that she wants more than just a sham marriage?
Hume is sick of secrets and now distrusts her thinking she has taken a lover. Does he love her enough to believe her and start afresh?

This book has a little of everything. Strong characters, good plot with intrigue, action, suspense and sexy romance.

Really enjoyed reading this book. Look forward to book three.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Martha B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sacrifice and Redemption

Five years ago, Fyfa's assignment seemed simple enough. Now, not so much. Defending a castle under siege changes ones perspective, and even one's heart.

Five years ago, Hume was so sure he knew who he wanted. Now, not so much. Defending a castle under siege changes ones perspective, but not necessarily one's heart.

To succeed, a marriage must be based on both mutual respect and mutual trust. If either is missing, than emotional and physical love will die a slow, agonizing death.

Fyfa's Sacrifice is an expertly written study of how five years of marriage based on lies and deception can result in untold grief for both parties. Not only Fyfa's lies to others, but also Hume's lies to himself.

This absorbing book by Jayne Castel is not only well researched historically, but it's also an intense love story that takes place during a very rough period of Scotland's fight for independence. Not only lives and fortunes were at stake, but also Highland hearts.

Content 411: In addition to some moderate swearing, this book also contains some descriptive sexual intimacy.

Disclosure: I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

14th Century Scotland.

Hume Comyn the steward of Stirling Castle is a worried man, feels his wife is keeping secrets from him
Fyfa , Hume’s wife is keeping secrets from him, but not the kind he thinks..
Fyfa is a Druidess/Bandruie. , part of a coven known as the Guardians of Alba, This secret put a strain on their marriage, a marriage that started out as a way to gain information to aid the fight for Scotland
Bring into the mix the siege of Stirling Castle and things get a tad more complicated

This is the second book in The Guardians of Alba series and it doesn’t disappoint, Jayne has a way of bringing history to life, all be it fictional, Hume’s character was written so well , you could feel his pain and uncertainty concerning his wife.., looking forward to the next in the series ...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another compelling, captivating story by Jayne Castel. Set in medieval Scotland during the siege of Stirling Castle by Edward Longshanks and his English Army it combines actual historical facts with the fictional love story of Fyfa and Hume, two people who find themselves in a deteriorating, unhappy marriage. I have to admit I felt massive sympathy for Hume who was "duped" into marriage by Fyfa's witchy spells, lies and ulterior motives in her defense of Scotland. I thought there was no way this marriage could ever be saved but I was wrong. Their underlying love and passion for each other overcame all obstacles. It was a complex journey that took many twists and turns overcoming betrayal, jealousy and hurt. It was a wonderful story of second chances and new beginnings. Very highly recommended!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Denise riemer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the second of a series, and I enyoy so much, FIFA is married to Hume Comyn he is the Steward of Stirling castle in Scotland. The time of story is1304, the castle is beening attacked by the English , and Hume is fighting for Scotland independence, with Robert the Bruce. Hume and Nessa were married for five years, but Hume is not trusting Nessa, and has put a strain on their marriage. This book is very exciting to read, Nessa is a druediss, and want's to get her marriage like it was at the beginning. But the trust is not there by Hume, but they have to work together to save the castle and save Scotland. Enjoyed reading how things were developed between the two of them. Would really recommend this book, I received this book as a ARC for my honest opinion, I gave story five stars as it held my attention from start to finish. Wonderful story.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, another amazing story in another fascinating series! Fyfa, a Guardian of Alba, married Hume, the Steward of Stirling Castle, as a way to gain information for their cause…which was to protect Scotland. They had their ups and downs the five years of their marriage, but their relationship during the last two years was steadily in decline. On top of that was the months long seige taking place in which the English were trying to take the castle. Although there is a great deal of action and suspense in this story, their is a major focus on Fyfa and Hume’s relationship. It is intense, heartbreaking and very emotional. I really enjoyed this rollercoaster ride, actually, much more than I expected. It is a story of demption and love, bith for each other and Scotland.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfa used witchery to make Hume fall in love with her and marry her so that she was in a position to assist in keeping Scotland free of the English. Now five years later she finds herself in a loveless marriage, locked behind the gates of Stirling Castle with the English at the door and beating down the walls.
Hume was a shy young man when he met Fyfa, at the beginning of their marriage they were happy, somewhere in the last two years it all went wrong and he is convinced she has been with another.
When they have to work together, and depend on each other, their love looks like it may get a second chance.
The descriptions of the scenery and the battles make this such a great read, the previous book sets up this book nicely and I can't wait for the next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diane DuBenske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again another outstanding book from Jayne Castel that you not only read but can actually feel and see happening while you read. Her writing is so well done that you feel yourself emerged into the story. History is abundant and factual. Energy flows with her characters like a rushing river. The story is gripping and holds you until the end. The love between Fyfa and Hume is a slow burn that you feel burning hotter until there is no denying their true love for each other. She is a witch, a Guardian of Alba, and he a mortal who have the same goal of helping Robert Bruce claim Scotland and turn away the English from their land but there are secrets between them. I loved this story and can't recommend it enough. You will not be disappointed with this action packed romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets, Witches, Strong Love:
This is an epic passionate love story mainly about Hume, Fyfa, and Scotland.
Both of these very strong characters had me captured to the story
They have promised to defend Scotland against the English...
They are in a bad situation only made worse by their failing marriage.
This is a complex love story with many political overtones..
Every emotion you can conjure up is in this story..
A lot of sadness, witchery, jealousy, confessions, love, assassins,
I enjoyed the heartfelt confessions both Fyfa and Hume told each other.
They will reach their destiny and find happiness.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next story Breanna's Surrender.
I did receive this book from Booksprout for my honest opinion.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appearances are deceiving

Hume is a Steward at Stirling Castle husband to Fyfa. Hume low self esteem is to blame for many of their marital troubles! He is jealous and let others constantly question what this beautiful, firstly voluptuous woman wants with him!? Secrets are revealed lies exposed as the castle is taken by the English! Fyfa sacrifices her marriage and at times honesty with her husband. Fyfa never cheated on him and Hume fiercely loves his wife! Hume and Fyfa never shared their feelings before so when they are brutally honest…. Just wow!
Can they fight for Scotland future side by side or is mistrust too deep! This is a beautiful story of how love is forged in war and love does win!!

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely captivating. Fyfa and Hume's characters were well-written and I liked them immediately. The couple had their struggles that brought more depth and emotion to the story. I read this book in one sitting. I refused to go to sleep without finishing it. The extremely embellished history was quite interesting and entertaining.
To be honest, I wasn't sure about this series at first, but I have enjoyed book one and two. I will be anxiously awaiting book three.
Jayne Castel has a unique writing style that pulls me into the story. I look forward to reading many more of her books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

The historical accuracy for the most part is spot on. I can't say I agree with Druidesses being Witches but that's where creative licensing comes in. It's definitely better to read this series in order as some things are interwoven throughout the stories. . Fyfa and Hume's story is full of angst, drama, jealousy, love and hate. The secrets Fyfa has to hide from her husband is tearing them apart, little does she know they will eventually bring them closer together than ever.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfe ‘s marriage is based on lies and she does not want to keep them from her husband of five years anymore. Her secret is that she is a Druidess and. Belongs to an old order that protects Scotland. He does not trust his wife he thinks she is cheating on him.
Due to a siege they get stuck together and must work together to solve this issue. Will the truth come out and will they be able to resolve thier issues or not.
Jayne Castel is a great author and really engages you in her books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Loreli Jessee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoyed this book. There is so much tension between Fyfa and Hume, it gave you such a strong insight into there relationship. I loved how much Fyfa was willing to sacrifice for her country, friends, and loved ones. It was great when both of them let their defenses down and just let themselves feel. This is such an exceptionally well written, book with lifelike characters, you won’t be disappointed with any part of it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Our hearts are one, mo ghràdh…and, together, we will build a fortress around them.” What a great story! I read this in one afternoon! Although emotionally tense throughout, there were some very sweet and tender moments. At some point the characters had to let go of the past and hope for new beginnings. I enjoyed every minute of this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Aj · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fyfa's Sacrifice is a powerful and compelling story set in 14th Century Medieval Scotland. This story gives you adventure and passion and immerses you in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Fyfa's marriage to Hume started with deceit and it takes a long journey to find their second chance. A deep and emotional story with many layers, Jayne Castel writes an engrossing story in book 2 of the Guardians of Alba series.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fyfa married Hume who is the steward of Stirling Castle under false pretense since she is a druidesess to protect Scotland. Hume knows she is keeping secrets but he thinks she has taken a lover and with his mistrust they are now estranged. When the castle is attacked they must come together to protect the castle and all of Scotland against England. This is a wonderful glance into the history of that time and also the romance into Fyfa and Hume has they both fight the good fight.