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Highlander: The Legends #2
The Lion of Blacklaw Tower
They owe each other their lives. Having saved her from a fate worse than death, John Craig would have paid with his life if not for Ava Guthrie coming to his rescue. So, while they might now be even, there is no way that John can abandon Ava. Saving him essentially made her a criminal, and that is the only reason he insists she must flee with him. Certainly, it has nothing to do with the bone-melting kiss they shared just before he would have hanged.
Between her disquiet at the prospect of leaving the only home she has ever known, and the greater foreboding roused by the ferocious warrior and his astonishing kiss, the last thing Ava wants to do is take flight with the man. He’s brusque and angry and seems to have little use for women, despite the fact that she did just save his life. But then there’s something beneath the façade of that lion, something that suggests his heart is not so impenetrable as he would have her believe.
Pursued from the city by an English-aligned sheriff, keen to make a name for himself with the capture of the legendary Lion of Blacklaw Tower, John, Ava, and their small band of accomplices are literally running for their lives inside inhospitable territory. John is supposed to be about the king’s business, not being enthralled by the recklessly fearless lass. When the king issues a direct order calling John to his side at the same time Ava is captured, John is forced to make a choice between honor and duty…and maybe love?
Between her disquiet at the prospect of leaving the only home she has ever known, and the greater foreboding roused by the ferocious warrior and his astonishing kiss, the last thing Ava wants to do is take flight with the man. He’s brusque and angry and seems to have little use for women, despite the fact that she did just save his life. But then there’s something beneath the façade of that lion, something that suggests his heart is not so impenetrable as he would have her believe.
Pursued from the city by an English-aligned sheriff, keen to make a name for himself with the capture of the legendary Lion of Blacklaw Tower, John, Ava, and their small band of accomplices are literally running for their lives inside inhospitable territory. John is supposed to be about the king’s business, not being enthralled by the recklessly fearless lass. When the king issues a direct order calling John to his side at the same time Ava is captured, John is forced to make a choice between honor and duty…and maybe love?
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2022
268 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 2, 2024
This is properly categorized as a historical romance, but it was long on history and short on romance.
I’m very ignorant of medieval Scottish history, but the historical facts seemed well researched and felt authentic and very interesting. The writing was assured. After a brisk start featuring theft, an almost-hanging, and an exciting escape the action slowed down. Slowed way, way down. Disappeared into a sea of description and the thoughts of two people who were attracted to each other but made a point of resisting it behind a wall of silence and pointed distance, which really was barely a romance at all. The way Ava and John developed as a couple didn’t seem phony, but the little glimpses of progress the reader got were so incremental and so minuscule that it wasn’t much of a payoff for the time invested.
So interesting, yes. Romantic, not so much.
I’m very ignorant of medieval Scottish history, but the historical facts seemed well researched and felt authentic and very interesting. The writing was assured. After a brisk start featuring theft, an almost-hanging, and an exciting escape the action slowed down. Slowed way, way down. Disappeared into a sea of description and the thoughts of two people who were attracted to each other but made a point of resisting it behind a wall of silence and pointed distance, which really was barely a romance at all. The way Ava and John developed as a couple didn’t seem phony, but the little glimpses of progress the reader got were so incremental and so minuscule that it wasn’t much of a payoff for the time invested.
So interesting, yes. Romantic, not so much.
March 26, 2024
Simply romantic.
January 6, 2023
Great historical love story
This was a good book. I have read the first 2 and when I read John’s last name it made wonder what my ancestors did as my 2nd great grandfather was a Craig. AncestryDNA says they came from Ireland but I only have 5% Irish in me so maybe they migrated there.
This was a good book. I have read the first 2 and when I read John’s last name it made wonder what my ancestors did as my 2nd great grandfather was a Craig. AncestryDNA says they came from Ireland but I only have 5% Irish in me so maybe they migrated there.
December 6, 2022
Ava Guthrie is a bastard daughter of a Baron with unusual beauty! She is despised by the legitimate children and beaten and treated more cruelly than a servant!
Family is definitely the people that suffer with you and who watch your back time after time again!
Ava left this hostile environment to join forces in a town ran mostly by the English! Scottish people lived and worked and survived there by keeping their head down! Lanark has an English ruler who is ambitions but does not understand the stealth and braw of a Highlander!
When John Craig is sent to scot out Lanark to see how easy it would be for the Robert the Bruce to take over and hold for Scotland and increase their army it should be a simple task!
Well John is caught and set to hang having been mesmerized by Ava’s green cat eyes!
Ava knows this braw Highland Laird the Lion of Blacklaw tower can not hang for her so she must come to his defense!
This starts an epic escape from the city sleeping with her friends Hamish and Innes their faces are known and they must all flee the city!
There is one adventure after another and at times I wanted to shake Ava for her loyalty to these two as only Hamish who is simple of mind but big in strength deserves it!
Love will find you in the most unlikely places and Lord knows John fought it tooth and nail until he couldn’t!
I disliked Innes for almost the whole book until the end! But if you want a story you won’t put down! Their love defines reason and will last far beyond time! Well read this story and it will stay with you just like the previous one with Magnus and Lara! A love for the ages! Bravo!
Family is definitely the people that suffer with you and who watch your back time after time again!
Ava left this hostile environment to join forces in a town ran mostly by the English! Scottish people lived and worked and survived there by keeping their head down! Lanark has an English ruler who is ambitions but does not understand the stealth and braw of a Highlander!
When John Craig is sent to scot out Lanark to see how easy it would be for the Robert the Bruce to take over and hold for Scotland and increase their army it should be a simple task!
Well John is caught and set to hang having been mesmerized by Ava’s green cat eyes!
Ava knows this braw Highland Laird the Lion of Blacklaw tower can not hang for her so she must come to his defense!
This starts an epic escape from the city sleeping with her friends Hamish and Innes their faces are known and they must all flee the city!
There is one adventure after another and at times I wanted to shake Ava for her loyalty to these two as only Hamish who is simple of mind but big in strength deserves it!
Love will find you in the most unlikely places and Lord knows John fought it tooth and nail until he couldn’t!
I disliked Innes for almost the whole book until the end! But if you want a story you won’t put down! Their love defines reason and will last far beyond time! Well read this story and it will stay with you just like the previous one with Magnus and Lara! A love for the ages! Bravo!
November 22, 2022
great read
Loved the story of John and Ava, with great storyline and great characters. I really enjoy Rebecca Ruger’s books and this is another well worth a read. Looking forward to December for the next one.
Loved the story of John and Ava, with great storyline and great characters. I really enjoy Rebecca Ruger’s books and this is another well worth a read. Looking forward to December for the next one.
November 27, 2022
This is possibly the best opening Rebecca Ruger has ever written. It's fast paced and exciting and defines the MCs from the get-go. Both are moral and bold and yes, headstrong. Both are new to the idea of romantic attachment and both will discover the power it holds.
John and Ava are from very different walks of life. John is a renowned warrior pledged to fight for Scottish freedom alongside Robert the Bruce. Ava lives hand to mouth on the streets. When he gets a glimpse of her exotic catlike green eyes one night that's the moment their destinies become irreversibly intertwined. They rescue each other tit-for-tat and more than once. They run from the law, find respite with old and new friends. They forge a new life together, neither one weakened, only strengthened by their new purpose.
As far as medieval romances go, there's everything I like in this book—lush descriptions and well explained historical facts and settings; down and out but clever characters getting by on their wits alone; alpha MC who needs but stubbornly resists having a woman in his life; adventure and daring rescues; interesting side characters; revisiting characters from previous books; nice transition to subsequent books in the series, yet each is a standalone. I'm never disappointed by a Rebecca Ruger book and I look forward to the next in the series.
John and Ava are from very different walks of life. John is a renowned warrior pledged to fight for Scottish freedom alongside Robert the Bruce. Ava lives hand to mouth on the streets. When he gets a glimpse of her exotic catlike green eyes one night that's the moment their destinies become irreversibly intertwined. They rescue each other tit-for-tat and more than once. They run from the law, find respite with old and new friends. They forge a new life together, neither one weakened, only strengthened by their new purpose.
As far as medieval romances go, there's everything I like in this book—lush descriptions and well explained historical facts and settings; down and out but clever characters getting by on their wits alone; alpha MC who needs but stubbornly resists having a woman in his life; adventure and daring rescues; interesting side characters; revisiting characters from previous books; nice transition to subsequent books in the series, yet each is a standalone. I'm never disappointed by a Rebecca Ruger book and I look forward to the next in the series.
January 20, 2024
What an unlikely prospect of love for Ava and John. This is an action packed book concerning the rain of terror that the British regime tried to place on the Scottish people. John served the true king of Scotland but he found himself saving Ava from being raped from some British soldiers. They end of saving each other multiple times until John finally quits denying his true feelings for Ava. This book is action packed and filled with emotional turmoil. It is a great read . I love scottish historical fiction with some truthfulness in them as well. I would have given this more than 5 stars if possible. I enjoyed reading the multiple layers of all the characters in this book. Ava and John successfully find a fulfilling marriage and make a family together including the two “ brothers “ that came with Ava from the streets.
December 12, 2022
Love undeniable.
I can’t begin to explain how much I loved this book. John, the Lion of Blacklaw Tower was a fearless knight in the service of Robert the Bruce. He was on a mission to scout details and specifics of Lanark in order to plan an attack to regain the city for the Bruce. When he rescued the beautiful Ava from the clutches of an English soldier, he was captured and set to hang in 3 days. Ava could not allow that and disrupted the hanging along with her 2 friends, to save John. Their escape brought them closer together. Along with that, came more challenges that I will not go into but to say that this story is action packed. I love the build up to their love story and all the challenges they faced. I can’t wait to read the next one.
I can’t begin to explain how much I loved this book. John, the Lion of Blacklaw Tower was a fearless knight in the service of Robert the Bruce. He was on a mission to scout details and specifics of Lanark in order to plan an attack to regain the city for the Bruce. When he rescued the beautiful Ava from the clutches of an English soldier, he was captured and set to hang in 3 days. Ava could not allow that and disrupted the hanging along with her 2 friends, to save John. Their escape brought them closer together. Along with that, came more challenges that I will not go into but to say that this story is action packed. I love the build up to their love story and all the challenges they faced. I can’t wait to read the next one.
July 28, 2024
This book is action from the start, with unlikely allies fleeing for their lives. Having met John in the first of this series, it was nice to see him attracted to a woman, especially one as independent as Ava. His hesitance to give her any indication that he wants her to stay at Lismore causes him more problems but brings his protective lion to the fore.
The sweet little boy in the Sheriff's castle gives an insight into the loyalty of the Scottish people, even at a young age. I liked that some real history was incorporated into the story.
It was risky and a little unlikely that they would seek aid so blatantly and openly but gave the opportunity for Catherine to meet Will. I presume their story is to be told.
The addition of Innes and his feelings gives the story more depth and a little personal conflict as jealousy rears its head.
The sweet little boy in the Sheriff's castle gives an insight into the loyalty of the Scottish people, even at a young age. I liked that some real history was incorporated into the story.
It was risky and a little unlikely that they would seek aid so blatantly and openly but gave the opportunity for Catherine to meet Will. I presume their story is to be told.
The addition of Innes and his feelings gives the story more depth and a little personal conflict as jealousy rears its head.
November 20, 2022
The unique start to this story grabbed my attention. Ava had a difficult past which has led to the predicament that John finds her in. I enjoyed the clashes with the law and the merry chase that ensued. It nice to see Ava’s friends Innes and Hamish frequently part of the evolving plot. Denying an instant connection and burning attraction was something Ava and John danced around most of the story. In the end it was satisfying to see how things turned out.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
November 18, 2022
unusual
It must be hard for a seasoned warrior to have his life saved by a woman. Since Ava is a very outstanding woman for her time (she is courageous, outspoken and not afraid to use her brain) it´s no wonder John is fascinated by her. But living in times of betrayal, both have to work hard on overcoming their suspicions and convincing themselves and each other they are trustworthy and give love a chance.
I received this book as a review copy.
It must be hard for a seasoned warrior to have his life saved by a woman. Since Ava is a very outstanding woman for her time (she is courageous, outspoken and not afraid to use her brain) it´s no wonder John is fascinated by her. But living in times of betrayal, both have to work hard on overcoming their suspicions and convincing themselves and each other they are trustworthy and give love a chance.
I received this book as a review copy.
November 8, 2023
The opening scenario was exciting and enticing and then…..it went downhill.
I read until about 30%, got bored, skimmed until 50ish%, skipped until 80ish% to see how it wrapped up.
Other than the opening of the book, the story is just traveling, longing looks, repeated storytelling, and Ava turning from being the independent young woman in the beginning to doing everything annoying and bitter Innes says they should do. It was annoying and boring, sadly.
I read until about 30%, got bored, skimmed until 50ish%, skipped until 80ish% to see how it wrapped up.
Other than the opening of the book, the story is just traveling, longing looks, repeated storytelling, and Ava turning from being the independent young woman in the beginning to doing everything annoying and bitter Innes says they should do. It was annoying and boring, sadly.
December 14, 2022
excellent read!
Just like all of Ms. Ruger’s book, this does not disappoint! Started off exciting and just kept on going. The characters just grabbed you and pulled you in! Humor, action, history and a bit of steam! I love how the story sets up the next book in the series! Hated for this to end!!
Just like all of Ms. Ruger’s book, this does not disappoint! Started off exciting and just kept on going. The characters just grabbed you and pulled you in! Humor, action, history and a bit of steam! I love how the story sets up the next book in the series! Hated for this to end!!
January 2, 2023
Needs editing. Had some action, the hot Highlander, and the gorgeous lass who inspires insta-love. This one included a pseudo-villain who wasn't present nor much of a threat and wasn't actually defeated so that was rather anticlimactic. There was potential with secondary characters that was never realized so they remained one-dimensional. Overall, another formulaic Rebecca Ruger Highlander romance for an afternoon diversion. Would not buy or reread. Not her best.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2024
This had the most interesting set-up. The hero saves the thief heroine from rape and imprisonment and then she saves him from a hanging. This scene was detailed in the epilogue of the first book and I read it next. However, it did not live up to the initial excitement. I also felt that there was no real romance in this book.
Read
December 6, 2024DNFed. The writing style wasn't for me. I like action to contain action and nothing else. I was too distracted by all the descriptions and inner thoughts and facts in the middle of a rescue from a hanging, that should have been thrilling and always on the move, but was filled with too much detail to the surroundings.
November 18, 2022
It was ok
It’s a great book if you can get past John’s personality. Rebecca Ruger wrote the character well of a grumpy, arrogant man. He really got on my nerves. But love did triumph over his grumpiness.
It’s a great book if you can get past John’s personality. Rebecca Ruger wrote the character well of a grumpy, arrogant man. He really got on my nerves. But love did triumph over his grumpiness.
November 25, 2022
A winner
When I read a book I sometimes have problems with characters being wishy washy. John was steady, an ass but steady. Ava being what she was, didn't have a clue until she did. A lot of good writing here. I would definitely recommend this book.
When I read a book I sometimes have problems with characters being wishy washy. John was steady, an ass but steady. Ava being what she was, didn't have a clue until she did. A lot of good writing here. I would definitely recommend this book.
December 9, 2023
not great
creative and passionate, other books in this series were wonderful!
This one lacked any real momentum or intrigue, failing to capture the imagination, even with its dramatic beginning.
Would not recommend, did not finish.
creative and passionate, other books in this series were wonderful!
This one lacked any real momentum or intrigue, failing to capture the imagination, even with its dramatic beginning.
Would not recommend, did not finish.
March 27, 2024
The Lion of Blacklaw Tower
Another great story from Rebecca Ruger i am never disappointed i loved reading about Ava and John Craig the slow build up of the romance is lovely. And i must say that Rebecca writes a great epilogue.
Another great story from Rebecca Ruger i am never disappointed i loved reading about Ava and John Craig the slow build up of the romance is lovely. And i must say that Rebecca writes a great epilogue.
March 29, 2024
This is the first book that I have read from this author and I can say I wasn’t disappointed. Fantastic historical romance with amazing characters: I loved reading John and Ava’s story unfold throughout the book and couldn’t wait to see what happened next. I loved the language used.
April 28, 2024
War to love
England and Scotland are ever at war which makes life miserable for the every day people. when one young girl tries to help a widow she runs into the guards but is rescued by a knight releasing a change of events for many.
England and Scotland are ever at war which makes life miserable for the every day people. when one young girl tries to help a widow she runs into the guards but is rescued by a knight releasing a change of events for many.
May 28, 2024
Love and war
First time reading this author. I found Ava and John’s story to be good story telling, and romantic without it being overly so. Also loved the secondary characters, especially Will Douglas!
First time reading this author. I found Ava and John’s story to be good story telling, and romantic without it being overly so. Also loved the secondary characters, especially Will Douglas!
July 3, 2024
I loved this book I just wish it had more intimate scenes. The romance is slow burn for sure. Very light and soft. The first and last half were engaging. I could have used a little more “drama”, I like high stake romances. The writing is good as well. Enjoyed this one.
September 27, 2024
Quick-thinking Ava boldly uses a kiss as a diversion to rescue a Highlander from a hangman's noose. . . and they're off on an adventure together. Definitely a slow-burn attraction between them, but a happily-ever-after that's worth the wait.
November 24, 2022
Excellent
Please read these two stories. They are absolutely wonderful. I can not wait for number three. Lots of excitement and love
Please read these two stories. They are absolutely wonderful. I can not wait for number three. Lots of excitement and love
December 13, 2022
Very good
I enjoyed this book so very much. I am glad the Lion of Blacklaw Tower got tamed. Ava was perfect for John. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I enjoyed this book so very much. I am glad the Lion of Blacklaw Tower got tamed. Ava was perfect for John. I look forward to the next book in the series.
December 18, 2022
wonderful read
Be sure to go to this book to read. You will find pleasure in each facet of it. Excitment, love, and many olden days issues.
Be sure to go to this book to read. You will find pleasure in each facet of it. Excitment, love, and many olden days issues.
Currently reading
December 25, 2022Another great story
The plot was well written and I liked all of the characters especially John and Ava. I am glad that their romance had a happy ending.
The plot was well written and I liked all of the characters especially John and Ava. I am glad that their romance had a happy ending.
January 11, 2023
beautiful story
I loved all the characters in this story.
Ava is strong and feminine. John is strong and valiant!
Loved the entire journey!
I loved all the characters in this story.
Ava is strong and feminine. John is strong and valiant!
Loved the entire journey!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews