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Book Highlander Unmasked

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2007-08-28
  • ISBN : 0345502302
  • Pages : 432 pages

Download or read book Highlander Unmasked written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2007-08-28 with total page 432 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Alex MacLeod’s virile physique, fearsome reputation, and renowned fighting skills have helped him master to perfection the role of a hardened mercenary. On a secret mission to protect his clan, he must keep his true purpose well hidden. But his dangerous endeavor is threatened by a beautiful woman he saves from outlaws, never dreaming she will appear at court and put his plans in jeopardy. Meg Mackinnon needs a strong husband by her side to defend her clan’s holdings, but her search has been hampered by burning fantasies of the midnight rescuer whose smoldering blue eyes and raw sensuality left her breathless. Alex pretends to be a mercenary with no loyalties, yet he is clearly much more. As Meg challenges Alex to reveal all his secrets, the stakes grow perilously high, especially for the bold woman who dares to unmask a highlander.

Book Highlander Unmasked

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2007-08-28
  • ISBN : 0345494377
  • Pages : 434 pages

Download or read book Highlander Unmasked written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2007-08-28 with total page 434 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Alex MacLeod’s virile physique, fearsome reputation, and renowned fighting skills have helped him master to perfection the role of a hardened mercenary. On a secret mission to protect his clan, he must keep his true purpose well hidden. But his dangerous endeavor is threatened by a beautiful woman he saves from outlaws, never dreaming she will appear at court and put his plans in jeopardy. Meg Mackinnon needs a strong husband by her side to defend her clan’s holdings, but her search has been hampered by burning fantasies of the midnight rescuer whose smoldering blue eyes and raw sensuality left her breathless. Alex pretends to be a mercenary with no loyalties, yet he is clearly much more. As Meg challenges Alex to reveal all his secrets, the stakes grow perilously high, especially for the bold woman who dares to unmask a highlander.

Book Highlander Unchained

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2007-09-25
  • ISBN : 0345502310
  • Pages : 386 pages

Download or read book Highlander Unchained written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2007-09-25 with total page 386 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Lachlan Maclean will do whatever it takes to protect his clan–even if it means abducting the most willful woman in the Highlands with the secret intention of wooing her for marriage. A born searing sensual leader possessing brute strength, and an imposing command, Lachlan is unprepared for the beautiful spitfire Flora MacLeod, who jeopardizes his plans to save his clan, and digs beneath his hard, chiseled exterior to expose a tenderness that may be his undoing. The greatest marriage prize in the Highlands, Flora is determined at all costs to avoid her mother’s fate of being bartered away as a political pawn. Vowing to make her captor pay for his ruthlessness, she boldly engages him in a battle of wills, sweetening the challenge with dangerous passion–even as the lingering curse and deadly ghosts of a past tragedy reach out to thwart a tender love that has yet to be spoken.

Book Highlander Untamed

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2007-07-31
  • ISBN : 0345500105
  • Pages : 418 pages

Download or read book Highlander Untamed written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2007-07-31 with total page 418 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Rory MacLeod is a bold and powerful Highland Chief with only one allegiance–to his clan. He vows revenge against the rival MacDonald clan, though duty demands a handfast marriage to Isabel MacDonald–a bride he does not want and has no intention of keeping. But Rory couldn’t have anticipated the captivating woman who challenges his steely control, and unleashes the untamed passion simmering beneath his fierce exterior. Blessed with incomparable beauty, Isabel MacDonald is prepared to use every means possible–including seduction–to uncover her husband’s most guarded secrets. Instead Rory awakens Isabel’s deepest desires and her sweetest fantasies. Now Isabel has found the happiness she’s always dreamed of with the very man she must betray, and discovers that passion can be far more dangerous than revenge.

Book Highlander Unmasked

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher :
  • Release : 2002
  • ISBN :
  • Pages : pages

Download or read book Highlander Unmasked written by Monica McCarty and published by . This book was released on 2002 with total page pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt:

Book The MacLeods of Skye Trilogy 3 Book Bundle

Download or read book The MacLeods of Skye Trilogy 3 Book Bundle written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2013-08-05 with total page 966 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Praised by Julia London as “breathless” and “enthralling,” Monica McCarty’s novels featuring the MacLeods of Skye have won the hearts and minds of romance readers with riveting historical adventure, delightfully independent heroines, and the steamiest Scottish warriors this side of the Highlands. Now McCarty’s unforgettable trilogy is available in a single eBook bundle: HIGHLANDER UNTAMED Rory MacLeod is a powerful Highland Chief with only one allegiance—to his clan. He vows revenge against the rival MacDonald clan, though duty demands a handfast marriage to Isabel MacDonald—a bride he has no intention of keeping. Blessed with incomparable beauty, Isabel is prepared to use every means possible—including seduction—to uncover her husband’s most guarded secrets. Instead Rory awakens Isabel’s deepest desires and her sweetest fantasies. Now Isabel has found the happiness she’s always dreamed of . . . with the very man she must betray. HIGHLANDER UNMASKED A hardened mercenary on a secret mission to protect his clan, Alex MacLeod must keep his true purpose hidden. But his dangerous endeavor is threatened by a beautiful woman he saves from outlaws, never dreaming she will appear at court and put his plans in jeopardy. As Meg Mackinnon challenges Alex—the midnight rescuer whose smoldering blue eyes and raw sensuality left her breathless—to reveal his secrets, the stakes grow perilously high, especially for the bold woman who dares to unmask a highlander. HIGHLANDER UNCHAINED A born leader possessing brute strength, Lachlan Maclean will do whatever it takes to protect his clan—even if it means abducting the most willful woman in the Highlands. But Lachlan is unprepared for the beautiful spitfire who digs beneath his chiseled exterior. Flora MacLeod is determined to avoid her mother’s fate of being bartered away as a marriage prize. Vowing to make her captor pay, she boldly engages him in a battle of wills, sweetening the challenge with dangerous passion–even as the deadly ghosts of a past tragedy reach out to thwart a love that has yet to be spoken.

Book Highland Scoundrel

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2009-03-24
  • ISBN : 0345512863
  • Pages : 418 pages

Download or read book Highland Scoundrel written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2009-03-24 with total page 418 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Framed for a crime he did not commit, Duncan Campbell, the illegitimate son of a chieftain, has returned to the Highlands determined to clear his name after ten years in exile. He is drawn to the unforgettable sensual beauty of Jeannie Gordon, the headstrong girl who once pledged him her love, gave him her innocence, and then betrayed him. Now, in the glow of the moonlight, she defiantly shows Duncan the bad end of a pistol. Jeannie is stunned to discover that the broad-chested brigand she just shot is the rogue who broke her heart years ago. No longer a starry-eyed girl but a woman with dangerous secrets, Jeannie cannot forgive Duncan’s shattering mistrust of her–nor can she sign his death warrant by turning him in. Soon passion flares hotter and bolder than before, sealing a fate the onetime lovers can no longer deny. Caught up in a deadly game of murder and intrigue, Jeannie is willing to risk everything for a man and a love she vows never to lose again.

Book The Highland Guard Series 5 Book Bundle

Download or read book The Highland Guard Series 5 Book Bundle written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2013-02-25 with total page 2212 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: New York Times bestselling author Monica McCarty has established herself as a favorite in the world of Scottish romance. Her sensual Highland Guard novels, tales of elite warriors and the remarkable women they love, just keep getting better and better. Now the first five books in the series are available in one sizzling eBook bundle: THE CHIEF THE HAWK THE RANGER THE VIPER THE SAINT With the death of William Wallace, Scotland’s struggle for independence from English rule seems all but doomed to failure. But in her darkest hour, the torch for freedom will be lit once more by Robert “the Bruce.” Scouring the darkest corners of the Highlands, the Bruce handpicks ten warriors to form an elite fighting force unlike any the world has ever seen. They are the best of the best in each discipline of warfare: Tor “the Chief” MacLeod, a swordsman without equal; Erik “the Hawk” MacSorley, a brilliant seafarer who has never encountered a wind he could not harness or a woman he could not win; Arthur “the Ranger” Campbell, a renowned scout who blends into the shadows deep behind enemy lines; Lachlan “the Viper” MacRuairi, a stealthy rogue to enlist but not to trust; and Magnus “the Saint” MacKay, the ultimate Highlander: tough, resourceful, and able to navigate and survive in the most extreme of conditions. The warriors of the Highland Guard fight to defend their country—but they live to capture hearts. Praise for Monica McCarty and her Highland Guard novels “McCarty’s gift lies in writing strong characters into wildly entertaining—often unexpected—scenarios.”—The Washington Post “A master storyteller . . . McCarty breathes life into her memorable characters as they face dangerous adventures. The fresh plots, infused with romance and passion, are also brimming with history and drama.”—RT Book Reviews “McCarty creates an enjoyable romance with torrid chemistry, appealing characters, and believable historical situations.”—Publishers Weekly

Book Highland Outlaw

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2009-02-24
  • ISBN : 0345512871
  • Pages : 386 pages

Download or read book Highland Outlaw written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2009-02-24 with total page 386 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Handsome and dangerous, Patrick MacGregor is a wanted man, possessing the tough, tenacious spirit of his outlawed clan. He will stop at nothing to save his people from destruction, even if it means marrying Elizabeth Campbell, the daughter of his worst enemy. Yet the flaxen-haired beauty disarms him from the start. Her sweet, unspoiled softness touches the cold depths of his ravaged soul–and makes him want much more than revenge. Inside the shy and dutiful Lizzie is a passionate woman longing to emerge, a woman ready for love. So when the piercing emerald eyes and searing kiss of a stranger spark in her a desperate hunger, she surrenders to Patrick’s glorious seduction–unaware that his daring deception has just found its one and only chance for redemption: a love more powerful than hate.

Book Highland Warrior

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2009-01-27
  • ISBN : 0345503384
  • Pages : 386 pages

Download or read book Highland Warrior written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2009-01-27 with total page 386 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The ruthless enforcer of Scotland’s most powerful clan, Jamie Campbell will use any means necessary to vanquish lawlessness and unrest among the feuding Highland clans. Seduction is a game as easily played as subterfuge, but when Jamie poses a as suitor to a rival clan’s daughter in order to expose treason, the line between duty and pleasure is suddenly blurred. Ebony-haired, ruby-lipped Caitrina Lamont defies him, denies him, and arouses him like no other woman. Caitrina has no intention of forsaking her beloved father and doting brothers for a husband–especially a hated Campbell. But Jamie’s raw, sensual strength and searing kiss melt her resistance. When her idyllic world is shattered, Caitrina’s only hope to save her clan lies in the arms of Jamie Campbell, the enemy she holds accountable for its ruin. Can their tenuous truce, born in the velvet darkness of passionate nights, forge a love as strong as the sword that rules the Highlands?

Book The Campbell Trilogy 3 Book Bundle

Download or read book The Campbell Trilogy 3 Book Bundle written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2013-10-14 with total page 1184 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Monica McCarty’s novels of Scottish historical romance are the gold standard in a genre known for sensual intrigue. In this riveting trilogy, the men and women of the Campbell clan lose themselves in the velvet darkness of passionate nights, play deadly games of murder and treason, and fight to forge a love as strong as the sword that rules the Highlands. This up-all-night eBook bundle includes: HIGHLAND WARRIOR The ruthless enforcer of Scotland’s most powerful clan, Jamie Campbell will use any means necessary to vanquish unrest among the feuding Highlanders, but when he poses as a suitor to a rival clan’s daughter, the line between duty and pleasure is suddenly blurred. Caitrina Lamont has no intention of forsaking her father and brothers for a husband—especially a hated Campbell. But Jamie’s raw, sensual strength and searing kiss melt her resistance. When her idyllic world is shattered, Caitrina finds that her only hope lies in the arms of the enemy. HIGHLAND OUTLAW Handsome and dangerous, Patrick MacGregor is a wanted man who will stop at nothing to save his outlawed clan, even if it means marrying Elizabeth Campbell, the daughter of his worst enemy. Yet the flaxen-haired beauty makes him want much more than revenge. Inside the shy and dutiful Lizzie, a passionate woman longs to emerge. So when the piercing emerald eyes of a stranger spark a desperate hunger, she surrenders to Patrick’s glorious seduction—unaware that his daring deception has just found its one and only chance for redemption. HIGHLAND SCOUNDREL Framed for a crime he did not commit, Duncan Campbell has returned to the Highlands to clear his name. After ten years in exile, Duncan is drawn to the headstrong girl who once betrayed him—and who now shows him the bad end of a pistol. No longer a starry-eyed girl but a woman with dangerous secrets, Jeannie Gordon cannot forgive Duncan’s shattering mistrust of her nor can she sign his death warrant by turning him in. Soon passion flares hotter and bolder than before, sealing a fate the onetime lovers can no longer deny.

Book The Chief

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2010-03-23
  • ISBN : 0345518233
  • Pages : 434 pages

Download or read book The Chief written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2010-03-23 with total page 434 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: AN ELITE FIGHTING FORCE UNLIKE THE WORLD HAS EVER SEEN . . . Scouring the darkest corners of the Highlands and Western Isles, Robert the Bruce handpicks ten warriors to help him in his quest to free Scotland from English rule. They are the best of the best, chosen for their superior skills in each discipline of warfare. And to lead his secret Highland Guard, Bruce chooses the greatest warrior of all. The ultimate Highland warlord and a swordsman without equal, Tor MacLeod has no intention of being drawn into Scotland’s war against the English. Dedicated to his clan, the fiercely independent chief answers to no one—especially not to his alluring new bride, bartered to him in a bid to secure his command of the deadliest fighting force the world has ever seen. The treacherous chit who made her way to Tor’s bed may have won his hand, but she will never claim his heart. Although her husband’s reputation is as fierce as his manner, Christina Fraser believes that something softer hides beneath his brutal shell. But the only warmth she feels is in their bed, in glorious moments of white-hot desire that disappear with the dawn. When Christina’s reckless bid to win her husband’s love goes awry and thrusts them into danger on the eve of war, Tor will face his ultimate battle: to save his wife and to open his heart—before it’s too late.

Book The Hunter

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2013-06-25
  • ISBN : 0345543912
  • Pages : 402 pages

Download or read book The Hunter written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2013-06-25 with total page 402 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY RT BOOK REVIEWS The war for Scotland’s freedom continues as King Robert the Bruce battles on. At his command is an elite army of trained warriors, soldiers dedicated to their king, their country—and to the remarkable women they love. Prized for his unbeatable tracking skills, Ewen “Hunter” Lamont accepts a dangerous assignment: locate a missing undercover courier. But this is no ordinary target. Ewen has met his prey before as “Sister Genna,” a fiery, forbidden woman forever etched in his memory after one stolen, sinful kiss. Now that he knows her real identity, he’s more determined than ever to keep her safe. But without the protection of the veil between them, fighting the allure of the beautiful lass may be the toughest battle this extraordinary warrior has ever faced. After her ill-fated attempt three years ago to rescue her twin sister, Janet of Mar has found salvation acting as a royal messenger—until she surrenders to a darkly handsome warrior whose rough, sensual kisses stir feelings the woman in her can’t deny. But when betrayal leads to danger, and a crucial communiqué is put in jeopardy, Janet has no choice but to put her faith in the hunter who can find anything—perhaps even her heart. Praise for The Hunter “[Monica] McCarty breathes life into her memorable characters as they face dangerous adventures. The fresh plots, infused with romance and passion, are also brimming with history and drama. She’s outdone herself with this fiery story of a forbidden love. What a fantastic addition to the series!”—RT Book Reviews “McCarty creates an enjoyable romance with torrid chemistry, appealing characters, and believable historical situations.”—Publishers Weekly “The Hunter is another strong addition to an excellent ongoing series about the lives and loves of the Highland Guards. . . . The research of the time period is very well done, and with an earnestly believable personal story woven in seamlessly. This is another highly enjoyable action-filled read for fans of the series, but can easily be read standalone.”—Fresh Fiction “McCarty is keeping her Highland Guard series fresh, with spectacularly riveting plots and fabulously romantic couples. . . . McCarty is a master at writing Highlander romance. . . . If you’ve not read this series yet, then I strongly suggest that you do. The Hunter is a must read for all historical romance readers.”—Night Owl Reviews “The adventures of the Highland Guard never disappoint in providing excitement and political intrigue in this series. The historical aspects of the era are finely woven into the wonderful storytelling. . . . But, the romance is the real jewel this time and made The Hunter a truly exceptional story.”—The Book Nympho Praise for Monica McCarty “Monica McCarty is a master of blending fact and fiction.”—Romance Junkies

Book The Hawk

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2010-08-31
  • ISBN : 0345518241
  • Pages : 418 pages

Download or read book The Hawk written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2010-08-31 with total page 418 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: THE LEGEND OF THE HIGHLAND GUARD CONTINUES. . . . Handpicked by Robert the Bruce to help him in his quest to free Scotland from English rule, the elite warriors of the Highland Guard face their darkest days. When Bruce is forced to flee, his bid for freedom rests on the shoulders of one extraordinary warrior. Erik MacSorley is a brilliant seafarer who has never encountered a wind he could not harness or a woman he could not win—until he drags a wet, half-naked “nursemaid” out of the waters off the Irish coast. Ellie’s ordinary appearance belies the truth: She is in fact Lady Elyne de Burgh, the spirited daughter of the most powerful noble in Ireland. Worse, this irresistible woman is determined to prove herself immune to Erik’s charms—a challenge he cannot resist. Her captor may look every inch a rugged warrior, but Ellie vows that it will take more than a wickedly suggestive caress to impress her. Yet Erik will sweep away Ellie’s resistance with a desire that resonates deep within her heart. Still, he is a man driven by loyalty, and she is a woman with secrets that could jeopardize Bruce’s chance to reclaim his throne. As the battle for king and country sounds across the shores, will Ellie’s love be enough to finally tame the legend known as the Hawk? Surrender to the pleasure of this novel from the Highland Guard series

Book The Raider

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2014-02-25
  • ISBN : 0345543947
  • Pages : 418 pages

Download or read book The Raider written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2014-02-25 with total page 418 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: NATIONAL BESTSELLER • After consolidating his gains against the enemy English, King Robert the Bruce of Scotland sends his best soldiers to fortify the lawless borders. These legendary warriors of the Highland Guard let nothing come before king and country—except the calling of their heart. Of all Bruce’s elite warriors, Robert “Raider” Boyd is the most formidable. A true patriot whose bare hands are a deadly weapon, Robbie is the fierce enforcer of the Guard, and his hatred of the English has been honed to a razor-sharp edge. But vengeance proves bittersweet when his enemy’s beautiful sister falls into his hands and he finds himself fighting temptation—a battle he badly wants to lose. Lady Rosalin Clifford barely recognizes the rebel prisoner she saved from execution six years ago. Though her girlish ideals for fairness have matured into a passion for justice, Rosalin believes she betrayed her brother when she helped this dangerous man escape. Now her traitorous act has come back to haunt her. But she can’t deny the longing this tormented warrior ignites in her, or deny the passion that turns sworn enemies into lovers. Is the gentle love of a true English Rose enough to free Scotland’s most brutal warrior from a path of vengeance—before it’s too late? Praise for The Raider “McCarty’s latest Highland Guard novel is a deeply moving and delightful read . . . once again proving that McCarty is a master storyteller.”—RT Book Reviews “Monica McCarty is an absolutely superior author! Her Highland Guard series has to be one of the absolute best Highland series out there! Fun, fast paced, fact driven and totally fantastic!”—Bodice Rippers “A powerful tale of love, woe, hardship and the power of true love . . . If you enjoy Scottish warriors, Medieval Scotland, romance, and passion, then you will enjoy The Raider. . . . A must-read!”—My Book Addiction Reviews “If you are a fan of historical romance, or any romance for that matter, you will want to not only read The Raider, but the entire Highland Guard series. It is just that good!”—Coffee and Characters “A stimulating romance with a rich historical setting, a conflict to put you on your toes, and a love story to pull at the heart strings . . . well done!”—Addicted to Romance

Book The Recruit

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2012-10-30
  • ISBN : 0345528417
  • Pages : 434 pages

Download or read book The Recruit written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2012-10-30 with total page 434 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: RITA Finalist for Historical Romance Scotland’s King Robert the Bruce is retaking his kingdom from the invading English. To win, he’ll need all the grit and courage of his elite band of warriors, the Highland Guard, men who fight without fear and love without limits. Fiery, aggressive, and bold, Kenneth Sutherland is a true champion—skilled with any weapon and driven to win. Now Kenneth is ready for his greatest challenge: joining Robert the Bruce’s secret army to fight among the elite. Kenneth’s best chance to attain that honor is by winning the Highland Games. Focused and prepared for victory, he is caught off guard by a lovely wisp of a woman—and a stolen moment of wicked seduction. Her innocent arousal and her shameless hunger fire his blood. He will win his place in the guard—and in Mary of Mar’s bed. The ruggedly handsome hero-in-the-making stirs a heart that should know better. Mary vows that her surrender will be sport only—no promises, no heartbreak, just one night of incredible passion. Nothing, she swears, will persuade her to give up her hard-wrought independence and put her fate in the hands of another powerful man. But with every gentle touch and heart-pounding kiss, Kenneth makes her want more. Now Mary wants his heart. But is this determined champion willing to surrender everything for love?

Book The Viper

    Book Details:
  • Author : Monica McCarty
  • Publisher : Ballantine Books
  • Release : 2011-10-18
  • ISBN : 0345528395
  • Pages : 418 pages

Download or read book The Viper written by Monica McCarty and published by Ballantine Books. This book was released on 2011-10-18 with total page 418 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The war for Scotland’s sovereignty rages on—as Robert the Bruce is crowned king and the Highland Guard, his elite fighting force of legendary warriors, battle for land . . . and love. Prized for his snakelike stealth and deadly strikes, Lachlan “Viper” MacRuairi is a warrior to enlist but not to trust. His only loyalty is to his purse, his indifference sealed by bitter betrayal. All that changes when Lachlan is tasked to protect and deliver Bella MacDuff to the king’s coronation—and the proud, lushly sensual countess unwittingly challenges him to his greatest battle yet: to love again. Passionate and devoted, Bella has defied Britain’s king and her own husband to place the crown on Bruce’s head, and for this she pays a terrible price: Losing her daughter and her freedom to her husband’s vengeance. Imprisoned with barbaric cruelty, she vows to reclaim her child, even if it means selling her soul—and her body—to a dark, lethal warrior whose eyes glint like steel, but who makes her skin tingle and her breath race. Together they embark on a rogue mission with sinister twists and turns that threatens not only Bella’s gamble to save her daughter—but also her heart.