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Tales from the Highlands #3
The Innkeeper and the Fugitive
Harboring a fugitive is dangerous enough. Falling in love with her could mean the end of his dreams—and his life.
After nearly ten years in the army, Hamish Campbell is ready to settle in and call a place home. His sights are set on Dalmore House, the Campbell family estate seized by the Crown after the ‘45 uprising. To have any chance at all of regaining it, Hamish must not only find the money to pay off the estate’s debts but persuade the man who has charge of it to relinquish the property into the hands of a Jacobite’s son. With the help of his brother-in-arms, Hamish finds employment at an inn near to Dalmore’s overseer, putting him in an ideal location to seek the man’s favor.
Ava MacMorran cannot marry Angus MacKinnon. Any fate would be preferable. Escaping her father’s threats of force, Ava sets out for the home of the childhood friend she knows will help her—perhaps even marry her. But when the merchant meant to take her there is nowhere to be found and Ava is mistaken for a long-awaited inn servant, she determines to go along with the misconception until she can be rescued by her friend.
With Ava ignorant of Hamish’s goals and Hamish unaware that he is harboring the fugitive daughter of the lynchpin of his plan, attachment between them deepens and the threat of discovery looms large, making a satisfactory outcome seem all but impossible.
The Innkeeper and the Fugitive is a clean romance and the third book in the Tales from the Highlands series. For greatest enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that the books be read in order.
After nearly ten years in the army, Hamish Campbell is ready to settle in and call a place home. His sights are set on Dalmore House, the Campbell family estate seized by the Crown after the ‘45 uprising. To have any chance at all of regaining it, Hamish must not only find the money to pay off the estate’s debts but persuade the man who has charge of it to relinquish the property into the hands of a Jacobite’s son. With the help of his brother-in-arms, Hamish finds employment at an inn near to Dalmore’s overseer, putting him in an ideal location to seek the man’s favor.
Ava MacMorran cannot marry Angus MacKinnon. Any fate would be preferable. Escaping her father’s threats of force, Ava sets out for the home of the childhood friend she knows will help her—perhaps even marry her. But when the merchant meant to take her there is nowhere to be found and Ava is mistaken for a long-awaited inn servant, she determines to go along with the misconception until she can be rescued by her friend.
With Ava ignorant of Hamish’s goals and Hamish unaware that he is harboring the fugitive daughter of the lynchpin of his plan, attachment between them deepens and the threat of discovery looms large, making a satisfactory outcome seem all but impossible.
The Innkeeper and the Fugitive is a clean romance and the third book in the Tales from the Highlands series. For greatest enjoyment, it is strongly recommended that the books be read in order.
298 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2021
512 people are currently reading
1748 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
September 3, 2021
I loved it. Not a single bit surprised. Martha has such a strong talent for writing strong characters in a historically accurate setting wrapped up in a beautiful setting and well paced plot. I loved jumping back into this series and i'm so happy this isn't the last one.
Hamish is such a wonderful and sweet man. A man who looks large and rough on the outside but is nothing but the best of men. Ava is a wonderful character that looks beyond appearances into the hearts of others and these two are truly made for one another.
The romance? OH so sweet, so heart felt and always leaves me wanting more! The thing about these books is that the conflict never feels forced, the story line is always unpredictable but somehow her characters beat the odds for that happily ever after.
Im a big Martha fan girl. Don't wait to hop on the train for this series because you'll be sorely misssing out!
Hamish is such a wonderful and sweet man. A man who looks large and rough on the outside but is nothing but the best of men. Ava is a wonderful character that looks beyond appearances into the hearts of others and these two are truly made for one another.
The romance? OH so sweet, so heart felt and always leaves me wanting more! The thing about these books is that the conflict never feels forced, the story line is always unpredictable but somehow her characters beat the odds for that happily ever after.
Im a big Martha fan girl. Don't wait to hop on the train for this series because you'll be sorely misssing out!
August 31, 2022
3,5 - 4 stars
Liked it well enough, the series as a whole is drawn beautifully.
Liked it well enough, the series as a whole is drawn beautifully.
October 23, 2021
A No Win Situation💔
ADULT Historical Highlander 🏰 Romance 💕and Adventure.
Ava,💃💋 A young noble woman ,runs away from an arranged marriage 👰to catch a ride at an inn that will take her far away from her overbearing father and his business partner he wants to marry her to. She misses her ride and must stay at the inn, being run by a tall handsome Scot named Hamish.🐺🍆⛲💪
Unfortunately, Hamish 🐺🍆⛲💪is beholden to her father because he is the key to Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 getting his land and manor 🏰back. Ava 💃💋uses a false name and Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 gives her a job as the cook, where she can stay out of sight from patrons .
Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 doesn't know that Ava's father is the same man who is holding his future until late in The book. By then it's too late, they have fallen in 💘Love.
Great book with an interesting plot.
ADULT Historical Highlander 🏰 Romance 💕and Adventure.
Ava,💃💋 A young noble woman ,runs away from an arranged marriage 👰to catch a ride at an inn that will take her far away from her overbearing father and his business partner he wants to marry her to. She misses her ride and must stay at the inn, being run by a tall handsome Scot named Hamish.🐺🍆⛲💪
Unfortunately, Hamish 🐺🍆⛲💪is beholden to her father because he is the key to Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 getting his land and manor 🏰back. Ava 💃💋uses a false name and Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 gives her a job as the cook, where she can stay out of sight from patrons .
Hamish🐺🍆⛲💪 doesn't know that Ava's father is the same man who is holding his future until late in The book. By then it's too late, they have fallen in 💘Love.
Great book with an interesting plot.
May 14, 2024
most of the reason I didn't read this for so long was because I wasn't mentally stable enough to deal with angus mackinnon and his audacity for an entire novel so shout-out to this book for not having his ugly mug on-page for the first 30% 👏 this was the softest and most domestic of the series so far, which, aside from being adorable, built an incredible sense of dread in me the whole time as I anticipated it falling apart (which it did, but also didn't, in a confusingly lovely way?)
I thiiiink it might be my favorite of the series? Hamish and Ava were adorable, I want good things for them always. 4 stars from me!
I thiiiink it might be my favorite of the series? Hamish and Ava were adorable, I want good things for them always. 4 stars from me!
November 13, 2023
I enjoyed this book as much as I enjoyed the 2 previous. The author has a good, solid villain that everyone loves to hate. I enjoy her writing style. The story has really good momentum especially in the last 25%. Can't wait for the last in the series!
January 31, 2022
I am loving this series! Lots of intrigue as Ava runs from a marriage to the detestable Angus and Hamish unknowingly aids her. So much tension and I truly could not figure out how it was going to all work out in the end but don't worry, there is definitely a HEA. Excited to read Glenna's story next! 4.5 stars
October 5, 2023
Every book in this series I’ve listened to at a turtle’s pace due to life. But I’d always enjoy the 10 mins here & there I listened to. I really enjoyed this one because I love hidden identity plots! The two main characters are extremely likable & the love story is gentle & believable just like the books before this one.
January 27, 2023
Oh, I’m truly enjoying this series! So glad I took a chance on Martha Keyes.
February 25, 2023
This was my favorite one in the series! I love loved it. Martha Keyes is brilliant and all the books in this series were full of twists and turns and well developed plots.
I think I liked this one the most though because I loved Ava and Hamish. Their romance was perfect and her higher rank doesn’t keep her from living a more simple life, well.
As with every book so far, there was a really developed story and characters you loved and a few you hated (I’m looking at you Angus). Definitely recommend checking out this whole series!
I think I liked this one the most though because I loved Ava and Hamish. Their romance was perfect and her higher rank doesn’t keep her from living a more simple life, well.
As with every book so far, there was a really developed story and characters you loved and a few you hated (I’m looking at you Angus). Definitely recommend checking out this whole series!
July 25, 2022
Angus loses another bridal prospect
Book 3 in the series (not absolutely necessary to read the books before, but it is better that way, IMHO) turns to Hamish & Ava.
Ava is Angus's unfortunate interest as a bride after Christina declined him, & her father insists that she agree to marry him or he'll force her to. So Ava runs away & finds herself pretending to be a cook at the Inn.
I like the way the author writes, & I like her characters, which is what keeps me reading. The plot is more believable than the previous 2, but it is another instalove - they go from remote interest to attraction to love in just days.
The story bogs down a little in the middle, which isn't surprising since Ava's hiding at the inn & can't really go anywhere, but at least there's romance developing 😉
The resolution at the end feels a little too easy, but it's plausible enough that it takes no effort to just roll with it and enjoy their happily-ever-after
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
Book 3 in the series (not absolutely necessary to read the books before, but it is better that way, IMHO) turns to Hamish & Ava.
Ava is Angus's unfortunate interest as a bride after Christina declined him, & her father insists that she agree to marry him or he'll force her to. So Ava runs away & finds herself pretending to be a cook at the Inn.
I like the way the author writes, & I like her characters, which is what keeps me reading. The plot is more believable than the previous 2, but it is another instalove - they go from remote interest to attraction to love in just days.
The story bogs down a little in the middle, which isn't surprising since Ava's hiding at the inn & can't really go anywhere, but at least there's romance developing 😉
The resolution at the end feels a little too easy, but it's plausible enough that it takes no effort to just roll with it and enjoy their happily-ever-after
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
April 30, 2024
To begin with, I liked the cover. Covers DO make a difference - at least to draw a reader into the story. Then, of course, the story has to take over and draw the reader into caring for the characters and what happens to them. I did care and enjoyed watching Ava and Hamish, along with a nice cast of supporting players go through their paces. It didn't hurt that the description of Hamish made me think of a young Chris Hemsworth - so, oh, yes, this was an enjoyable story. It's a clean book with no profanity or bad stuff, which is always a plus. While there WAS a bit more repetition of "feelings" by the characters than I like, I gave them a break since I imagine such thoughts did go through their minds frequently. Even though this was #3 in a series, I'd never read the other books and this was as good as a standalone to me.
August 27, 2021
This is such a great series. I was so happy to be back in the Highlands at the Glengour Inn. Angus MacKinnon has been such a thorn throughout this entire series. I really hope he finally gets his due before this series end. I'm so glad Ava was saved from Angus. She is a wonderful person who deserved so much more than he could give. I enjoyed her character and hard work and trying to make the best of such a hard situation. Hamish is the perfect hero. I really enjoyed getting to know him better and watching his relationship with Ava develop. I love when I'm reading a book and I can't figure out how the author is going to overcome all the obstacles and get the couple together. This was one of those books. I really enjoyed it and am anxious for the next book.
August 16, 2025
This was a nice, light read. I wasn’t quite sure how Ava was going to be saved. I loved the Inn and everyone involved with it, except for the bad guys who visited. I kept wondering if and when Dermont would show up. She hadn’t talked to him in 2 years. She must have guessed that a lot had changed in his life by that time. Despite the problems and fears everything works out in the end just like a good romantic story should.
May 11, 2024
Not quite a 4 but almost. :) I liked the storyline and the character. The only thing was that I had a hard time with some of the language. I know the author was tying to show the accent and give her characters more background, but it was confusing at times. Other than that a sweet love story.
July 16, 2024
This honestly wasn't my favorite in the series. I thought the relationship between the two main characters moved a bit fast at times and was a bit hard to believe that Hamish wouldn't be more angry about Ava's deceit. I still enjoyed it and am excited to read the next one.
August 7, 2023
3.45
It took awhile for this one to draw me in. If you read the series, you may still want to read it, just to get the updates to the other characters etc.
It took awhile for this one to draw me in. If you read the series, you may still want to read it, just to get the updates to the other characters etc.
February 15, 2025
Ooo so sweet!! Loved this one as much as book 2.
Hamish and Ava are wonderful.
On to book 4.
Hamish and Ava are wonderful.
On to book 4.
April 24, 2022
A tender, slow burn romance with a happy ending. Loved it!
February 26, 2023
3.5 The books in this series are fun regency romances, the perfect escape reads. Listening to a good audio book that doesn’t require close attention makes work enjoyable. Recommend!
February 24, 2023
Such a fun read! I’m really liking this series set in the Scottish highlands during the 1700’s. I can’t wait to read the next one.
August 28, 2021
4.5
This series just keeps getting better and better!
I really loved Hamish in The Enemy and Miss Innes and was so excited that we were going to get his story! And what a great story it was! The banter between Hamish and Ava is so fun and I love how hard they work together. They compliment each other perfectly.
I adore Hamish’s personality. He’s perfect in the role as Innkeeper. Kind, funny, completely loyal. Not to mention incredibly handsome lol. He’s everything a swoony hero should be! And Ava is strong and hardworking. She’s not above performing menial tasks, enjoys a good bit of banter, and she can cook… I want to try one of her pies! Along with Mark, Glenna, and Dorcas, they make a great team to run the Inn!
I really enjoyed this book and how everything turned out in the end. No spoilers! Lol I can’t wait to read Glenna’s story!!!! But at the same time it’s sad because that means it’s the end of the series. I’m very curious to see what happens with Angus as well… now that he’s had a bit of a promotion. Will he fall from his lofty position? Will the neighborhood finally be free from his corrupt and ruthless rule? To be determined! Plus a happily ever after for Glenna! And finally getting to meet Alistair!
I received an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This series just keeps getting better and better!
I really loved Hamish in The Enemy and Miss Innes and was so excited that we were going to get his story! And what a great story it was! The banter between Hamish and Ava is so fun and I love how hard they work together. They compliment each other perfectly.
I adore Hamish’s personality. He’s perfect in the role as Innkeeper. Kind, funny, completely loyal. Not to mention incredibly handsome lol. He’s everything a swoony hero should be! And Ava is strong and hardworking. She’s not above performing menial tasks, enjoys a good bit of banter, and she can cook… I want to try one of her pies! Along with Mark, Glenna, and Dorcas, they make a great team to run the Inn!
I really enjoyed this book and how everything turned out in the end. No spoilers! Lol I can’t wait to read Glenna’s story!!!! But at the same time it’s sad because that means it’s the end of the series. I’m very curious to see what happens with Angus as well… now that he’s had a bit of a promotion. Will he fall from his lofty position? Will the neighborhood finally be free from his corrupt and ruthless rule? To be determined! Plus a happily ever after for Glenna! And finally getting to meet Alistair!
I received an arc copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
September 22, 2021
I loved this sweet Scottish story! Ms. Keyes does a great job of taking me to Scotland with her vivid description of the places, landscape, the characters language and accent. It felt so real and natural! And the story was so enjoyable, full of everything I love in a story: sweet romance, intrigue, danger, a seemingly impossible love, endearing characters and so much more!
Ava MacMorran cannot marry Angus MacKinnon. Knowing Angus from the previous books, I too, was terrified about the possibility with her! He’s one of the greatest depicted villains I’ve read of! So, after her father threats, she decides to escape. The only place she can think of is going to Dermot, her childhood friend who will surely help her, and even marry her. But when the tinker who was supposed to stop at Glengour Inn, and take her to her destination, doesn’t appear, she has no option but to spend the night at the Inn's barn. Next morning, she is discovered and mistaken for the long-awaited cook by Hamish Campbell, the Glengour Innkeeper. So, Ava decides to go along with the mistaken identity until she can find a way to reach Dermot.
Meanwhile, Harrison is dreaming of recovering his father’s estate. After years spent away fighting the war, he came back to find his ancestral home is no longer his family’s and his father left many debts. To recover the estate and pay the debts he needs an insurmountable amount of money, that he will never reach only with his Innkeeper’s wages. Until someone offers him a big sum if he can help the free traders. But will that lead him to trouble? Also, he doesn’t know that the man with whom he has to deal a bargain to recover his family estate is Ava’s father. He doesn’t know Dorka’s true identity yet. But after a friendship grows, and then some more, will their bond be strong enough to resist the obstacles and dangers that will try to pull them away. Will he have to choose between recovering his estate and a love that comes once in a lifetime?
This book was awesome! Loved the characters: Ava was strong, spunky and determined. Hamish is a true hero with a kind heart, loyal and honest. The dialogues between them were delightful, with some flirty banter. The romance was sweet and clean, only swoony kisses! The dangerous part, the intrigue, kept me engaged until the end! I was captivated!
And I love to revisit previous characters. Glenna, the maid, was a sweet friend, can’t wait to read her story next! This is a standalone story, but I do have to say that it is so much enjoyable if you read it in order and get to know the characters -and the villain- better!
I highly recommend this story! Especially to lovers of the Scottish highlands!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Ava MacMorran cannot marry Angus MacKinnon. Knowing Angus from the previous books, I too, was terrified about the possibility with her! He’s one of the greatest depicted villains I’ve read of! So, after her father threats, she decides to escape. The only place she can think of is going to Dermot, her childhood friend who will surely help her, and even marry her. But when the tinker who was supposed to stop at Glengour Inn, and take her to her destination, doesn’t appear, she has no option but to spend the night at the Inn's barn. Next morning, she is discovered and mistaken for the long-awaited cook by Hamish Campbell, the Glengour Innkeeper. So, Ava decides to go along with the mistaken identity until she can find a way to reach Dermot.
Meanwhile, Harrison is dreaming of recovering his father’s estate. After years spent away fighting the war, he came back to find his ancestral home is no longer his family’s and his father left many debts. To recover the estate and pay the debts he needs an insurmountable amount of money, that he will never reach only with his Innkeeper’s wages. Until someone offers him a big sum if he can help the free traders. But will that lead him to trouble? Also, he doesn’t know that the man with whom he has to deal a bargain to recover his family estate is Ava’s father. He doesn’t know Dorka’s true identity yet. But after a friendship grows, and then some more, will their bond be strong enough to resist the obstacles and dangers that will try to pull them away. Will he have to choose between recovering his estate and a love that comes once in a lifetime?
This book was awesome! Loved the characters: Ava was strong, spunky and determined. Hamish is a true hero with a kind heart, loyal and honest. The dialogues between them were delightful, with some flirty banter. The romance was sweet and clean, only swoony kisses! The dangerous part, the intrigue, kept me engaged until the end! I was captivated!
And I love to revisit previous characters. Glenna, the maid, was a sweet friend, can’t wait to read her story next! This is a standalone story, but I do have to say that it is so much enjoyable if you read it in order and get to know the characters -and the villain- better!
I highly recommend this story! Especially to lovers of the Scottish highlands!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 25, 2024
3.5 stars. I enjoyed this book. I really liked hamish and Ava a lot. The author did a good job of giving them both personalities and they both contributed to the story and to eachother in meaningful ways. This is something a lot of authors can’t do in books like these. I could see actually see why the love interests would like the other. They had fun, playful conversations and would tease eachother and flirt. It was cute. And I loved that this was a slow burn romance. It’s so hard to find romance novels where the two love interests don’t just lust after the other instantly. So I really liked that. However, the biggest negative this book had was that the romance, once it did start, was too short. They are only together romantically for like a day and only show affection like twice. I would have given this an easy 4 stars had the passion been bumped up a notch. And I just wanted to watch the romance play out for a lot longer. The romance is what we’re here for after all!
I thought the conflict was a really good one. It was multi faceted too. This single conflict affected multiple people each in different ways and caused a different conflict for each person and each story. However, I wish this was taken advantage of more. One of the conficts I liked was that of Ava wondering if hamish was pretending to like her just to benefit his own future. This was addressed briefly by Ava, she worried about it for a second, but the author didn’t let it play out. Ava never had the chance to confront hamish about this and the issue is just brushed over and resolved by itself. It would have created a great opportunity for hamish to really declare his love for Ava. Or I would have liked for him to do something to show Ava his true intent. I mean, yes he does show us his true intent but Ava isn’t even there when he does this. It’s such a missed opportunity. I just would have liked more declarations of love and more affection between them. There were hardly any words of love spoken between the two of them except in the epilogue after they’re already married.
But overall it was a solid read. Just needed more of the romance!
I thought the conflict was a really good one. It was multi faceted too. This single conflict affected multiple people each in different ways and caused a different conflict for each person and each story. However, I wish this was taken advantage of more. One of the conficts I liked was that of Ava wondering if hamish was pretending to like her just to benefit his own future. This was addressed briefly by Ava, she worried about it for a second, but the author didn’t let it play out. Ava never had the chance to confront hamish about this and the issue is just brushed over and resolved by itself. It would have created a great opportunity for hamish to really declare his love for Ava. Or I would have liked for him to do something to show Ava his true intent. I mean, yes he does show us his true intent but Ava isn’t even there when he does this. It’s such a missed opportunity. I just would have liked more declarations of love and more affection between them. There were hardly any words of love spoken between the two of them except in the epilogue after they’re already married.
But overall it was a solid read. Just needed more of the romance!
August 27, 2021
So happy to be back in the Highlands with the next book in this series. Although each book would be fine as a stand alone story, the stories will make more sense if you read them in order. The back story of Angus MacKinnon is important to understand why Ava doesn't want to marry the man. I love the wonderful descriptions of the time period and the language of the Highlands.
Ava MacMorran's father is not giving her a choice in the decision to marry Angus MacKinnon. She has heard of his reputation and she is very upset with her father. She makes a decision to leave her home to get to a childhood friend who has promised to help her. She realizes his help might include marrying her but she is desperate enough to agree to a marriage. Now she must get to the Inn before the tinker leaves to get a ride out of the area.
Hamish Campbell currently runs the Inn after returning from ten years in the British Military. His desire is to petition to have his family estate Dalamore House returned to him even if he has to pay off the estate's debts. While waiting to receive an answer from the Lord in charge of Dalmore House's future, he still needs to keep the Inn running which means hiring another cook, since the one who was supposed to show up hasn't come.
When Ava is found hiding in the barn she assumes the identity of the missing cook. Her wonderful cooking brings more customers into the Inn but she must continue to hide her identity from everyone including Hamish. Meanwhile Hamish has no idea he is harboring a fugitive, the daughter of the man who holds his future.
This book has a bit of everything drama, wonderful cooking, smuggling and a growing attraction between Hamish and Ava.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
Ava MacMorran's father is not giving her a choice in the decision to marry Angus MacKinnon. She has heard of his reputation and she is very upset with her father. She makes a decision to leave her home to get to a childhood friend who has promised to help her. She realizes his help might include marrying her but she is desperate enough to agree to a marriage. Now she must get to the Inn before the tinker leaves to get a ride out of the area.
Hamish Campbell currently runs the Inn after returning from ten years in the British Military. His desire is to petition to have his family estate Dalamore House returned to him even if he has to pay off the estate's debts. While waiting to receive an answer from the Lord in charge of Dalmore House's future, he still needs to keep the Inn running which means hiring another cook, since the one who was supposed to show up hasn't come.
When Ava is found hiding in the barn she assumes the identity of the missing cook. Her wonderful cooking brings more customers into the Inn but she must continue to hide her identity from everyone including Hamish. Meanwhile Hamish has no idea he is harboring a fugitive, the daughter of the man who holds his future.
This book has a bit of everything drama, wonderful cooking, smuggling and a growing attraction between Hamish and Ava.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
August 22, 2021
Martha Keyes is an author that never lets me down. I love all of her books. The Innkeeper and the fugitive is part of a series, but could also be read on its own.
My favorite line was “The heart always longs for the place it was most at peace.”
I think this line sums up the main theme throughout this book, which was two characters trying to find where they belong after life took a few unexpected, and undesired turns. What I love about this idea, is that I feel like it is applicable across time. Don’t we all at some point find ourselves in a place or situation we didn’t plan for? Don’t we all long for home to be a place we belong?
Ava was promised to marry Angus, who we’ve gotten to know in previous books as a man without moral limits. Unwilling to go forward with the marriage, she attempts to run away.
Hamish has lost his father, good name, and family home, due to a political stance his father took. As an Innkeeper he hopes to prove himself worthy of the estate to Ava’s father and regain ownership of his family home. When he mistakes Ava and hires her to be a cook, he unintentionally puts himself in a difficult situation with Ava’s father.
The forced proximity trope is a favorite, and it was so well done with this book. Both characters were strong characters, who also learned to lean on each other. While Hamish sacrifices greatly to protect Ava, I love the ending and how Ava is able help Hamish as well. I won’t spoil it, but don’t you love with a heroine is more than just a damsel in destress? I really couldn’t put this book down. I loved it. I also loved learning a bit more about this time period and appreciate how the author left a note explaining what was based off of fact.
My favorite line was “The heart always longs for the place it was most at peace.”
I think this line sums up the main theme throughout this book, which was two characters trying to find where they belong after life took a few unexpected, and undesired turns. What I love about this idea, is that I feel like it is applicable across time. Don’t we all at some point find ourselves in a place or situation we didn’t plan for? Don’t we all long for home to be a place we belong?
Ava was promised to marry Angus, who we’ve gotten to know in previous books as a man without moral limits. Unwilling to go forward with the marriage, she attempts to run away.
Hamish has lost his father, good name, and family home, due to a political stance his father took. As an Innkeeper he hopes to prove himself worthy of the estate to Ava’s father and regain ownership of his family home. When he mistakes Ava and hires her to be a cook, he unintentionally puts himself in a difficult situation with Ava’s father.
The forced proximity trope is a favorite, and it was so well done with this book. Both characters were strong characters, who also learned to lean on each other. While Hamish sacrifices greatly to protect Ava, I love the ending and how Ava is able help Hamish as well. I won’t spoil it, but don’t you love with a heroine is more than just a damsel in destress? I really couldn’t put this book down. I loved it. I also loved learning a bit more about this time period and appreciate how the author left a note explaining what was based off of fact.
August 24, 2021
Over the last year Martha Keyes has quickly become one of my favorite authors. This is my third book of hers this year with the fourth currently sitting on my night stand. There is no cooler place to be transported than Scotland in the 1700’s and Martha Keyes does such an amazing job with the history. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC for this book and it made my day because I have been dying to read it. This is the third book from the Tales of the Highlands series and I absolutely adored the first and second book and have been counting down the days for this one.
Synopsis: What would you do if you were being forced into a marriage with someone accused of kidnapping and attempted murder? After trying to persuade her father that this was not the match she wanted, and to no avail, Ava MacMorran fled. She has a destination in mind, but can she get there? With a little money and being by herself she decided to take refugee at an Inn not far from her home. Trying to hide in plain sight she starts to see what she really wants.
Hamish Campbell has served in the Kings army for more than 10 years and he just wants to have a home, his home, the home that was taken from his family. In order to have any chance at reclaiming his childhood home he first must get on the good side of Sir Andrew MacMorran, the handler of the estate to his home, and find a way to pay off the debts of his father. The task seemed manageable that is until Hamish realizes that the servant he hired is actually the fugitive who is on the run escaping marriage.
I loved this book. This is an easy 5 stars for me and I’ll add it to my pile of books I want to reread in the future.
Synopsis: What would you do if you were being forced into a marriage with someone accused of kidnapping and attempted murder? After trying to persuade her father that this was not the match she wanted, and to no avail, Ava MacMorran fled. She has a destination in mind, but can she get there? With a little money and being by herself she decided to take refugee at an Inn not far from her home. Trying to hide in plain sight she starts to see what she really wants.
Hamish Campbell has served in the Kings army for more than 10 years and he just wants to have a home, his home, the home that was taken from his family. In order to have any chance at reclaiming his childhood home he first must get on the good side of Sir Andrew MacMorran, the handler of the estate to his home, and find a way to pay off the debts of his father. The task seemed manageable that is until Hamish realizes that the servant he hired is actually the fugitive who is on the run escaping marriage.
I loved this book. This is an easy 5 stars for me and I’ll add it to my pile of books I want to reread in the future.
August 20, 2021
4.5 🌟
Honestly, each book in the series keeps getting better. I love that we get to hear the story of two people we were briefly introduced to in the earlier two books in this series.
Hamish has recently returned from fighting for the English crown in France. His brother-in-arms has given him stewardship over the local inn. Hamish is happy to have this responsibility and sense of belonging, but his long-term goal is to earn back his family home, which was lost when his father was found guilty of treason for being a Jacobite.
Ava plans to run away from her home in order to avoid an arranged marriage. Due to the weather, she only gets as far as Hamish’s inn. He mistakes her for the recently hired cook. She doesn’t correct him.
I love a good, mistaken-identity trope! This story is both entertaining and engaging. I love the dialogue and witty banter between the MCs! They are so cute together and I found myself truly invested in their struggles. I also loved the overall theme of what is the definition of our home? Is it a within the walls of whatever shelter we currently reside? Or is it the people—our loved ones—who provide that definition?
And, as always, I love that the author works so hard to make sure her books are as historically accurate as they can be.
Honestly, each book in the series keeps getting better. I love that we get to hear the story of two people we were briefly introduced to in the earlier two books in this series.
Hamish has recently returned from fighting for the English crown in France. His brother-in-arms has given him stewardship over the local inn. Hamish is happy to have this responsibility and sense of belonging, but his long-term goal is to earn back his family home, which was lost when his father was found guilty of treason for being a Jacobite.
Ava plans to run away from her home in order to avoid an arranged marriage. Due to the weather, she only gets as far as Hamish’s inn. He mistakes her for the recently hired cook. She doesn’t correct him.
I love a good, mistaken-identity trope! This story is both entertaining and engaging. I love the dialogue and witty banter between the MCs! They are so cute together and I found myself truly invested in their struggles. I also loved the overall theme of what is the definition of our home? Is it a within the walls of whatever shelter we currently reside? Or is it the people—our loved ones—who provide that definition?
And, as always, I love that the author works so hard to make sure her books are as historically accurate as they can be.
October 13, 2021
"The heart always looks for the place it was most at peace."
Ava's father won't see reason. He insists on her engagement with Angus, who, if you've read earlier books in this series, you know is a character you don't want to cross.
In a hopeless attempt at escaping this marriage, Ava assumes the identity of a cook in a nearby inn.
But she certainly can't hide here forever, especially when she learns that the innkeeper who she's grown rather fond of over the course of her stay, might lose the one thing he desires most, because of her.
Ava and Hamish's banter was delightfully witty...especially when you throw the thick Scottish accent into the mix😉 Their story had just the right amount of action, suspense, humour and romance to keep you riveted and I thoroughly enjoyed her friendship with Glenna.
Ava’s father raised a few questions in my mind, since the rest of the characters all knew that Angus was a dangerous man to cross, so that Ava’s father knew nothing about that seemed a little inconsistent.
Otherwise, “The Innkeeper and the Fugitive,” was a lovely addition to the series; if this keeps up, Martha Keyes and Scotland will soon be synonymous in my mind😉
"He shook his head. "I'm no hero lass. I did what I hoped someone else would do for me."
Ava's father won't see reason. He insists on her engagement with Angus, who, if you've read earlier books in this series, you know is a character you don't want to cross.
In a hopeless attempt at escaping this marriage, Ava assumes the identity of a cook in a nearby inn.
But she certainly can't hide here forever, especially when she learns that the innkeeper who she's grown rather fond of over the course of her stay, might lose the one thing he desires most, because of her.
Ava and Hamish's banter was delightfully witty...especially when you throw the thick Scottish accent into the mix😉 Their story had just the right amount of action, suspense, humour and romance to keep you riveted and I thoroughly enjoyed her friendship with Glenna.
Ava’s father raised a few questions in my mind, since the rest of the characters all knew that Angus was a dangerous man to cross, so that Ava’s father knew nothing about that seemed a little inconsistent.
Otherwise, “The Innkeeper and the Fugitive,” was a lovely addition to the series; if this keeps up, Martha Keyes and Scotland will soon be synonymous in my mind😉
"He shook his head. "I'm no hero lass. I did what I hoped someone else would do for me."
February 9, 2023
1763 February
I have loved this series and how each book is center around this inn. I love how the inn is slowly improved in each book too. I loved both these characters so much in the book. They are after my own heart. They both appreciate good food, funny personality cats, and are terrified of rats and mice. This book has a forced proximity and mistaken identity trope that were so fun to read. The characters had sweet teasing banter. I love Glenna and can’t wait for her to finally be the main character next book.
SPOILERS and my book notes:
This book has some smuggling and jacobites. A lot of the peasant folks were ok with the smuggling bc the taxes were unfairly high for the scots. Cat named Mary. For “bloody mary” he eats lots of mice. I like it! Haha this book makes you want to try the Scottish food bannocks. I looked it up and it is a bread like scone. I love the smuggling scene where she dresses up as a man. And she keeps up with the men. The banter in this book is top notch. Probably my favorite. The forced proximity followed by the kiss. Also how protective hamitch is is sooo cute. Star cross lovers trope. Rich and poor. I love a good HEA and the misunderstanding at the end didn’t last long so it didn’t kill me. It made for such a sweet ending.
I have loved this series and how each book is center around this inn. I love how the inn is slowly improved in each book too. I loved both these characters so much in the book. They are after my own heart. They both appreciate good food, funny personality cats, and are terrified of rats and mice. This book has a forced proximity and mistaken identity trope that were so fun to read. The characters had sweet teasing banter. I love Glenna and can’t wait for her to finally be the main character next book.
SPOILERS and my book notes:
This book has some smuggling and jacobites. A lot of the peasant folks were ok with the smuggling bc the taxes were unfairly high for the scots. Cat named Mary. For “bloody mary” he eats lots of mice. I like it! Haha this book makes you want to try the Scottish food bannocks. I looked it up and it is a bread like scone. I love the smuggling scene where she dresses up as a man. And she keeps up with the men. The banter in this book is top notch. Probably my favorite. The forced proximity followed by the kiss. Also how protective hamitch is is sooo cute. Star cross lovers trope. Rich and poor. I love a good HEA and the misunderstanding at the end didn’t last long so it didn’t kill me. It made for such a sweet ending.
September 2, 2021
I have really enjoyed this series. These characters have come to life. I am genuienly intersted in their fates. I am dieing to find out what will be Angus' fate. He's such a good villian. Our h & H of this book were equally as fantastic. Each had their own quiet strength that endeared them to me and really had me rooting for them to be together and succeed in their own right as well. Martha Keyes took a sticky situation/plot and I felt executed it expertly! I never felt scenes or situations were contrived, There was a natural flow and the relationships and friendships evolved in a realistic way. As I got to the end I wanted to read faster to know what happens in the end. At the same time I wanted to slow down because I didn't want it to end. Hamish's final words to Ava at the close of the last chapter "Awwww"! I've also never have I wanted some porridge by the end. I was even willing to fly to Scotland and try some muton pie. I'm eagerly anticipating book #4. Glenna & Allistair already have me intrigued.
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