Catriona's Secret by Madeline Martin | ARC Review

Series: Borderland Ladies, #4
Traits & Tropes: virgin hero; damaged heroine; I've loved you for years...
Publication Date: 08.27.19
Genre/Setting: Historical; Medieval; English/Scottish border, May, 1341
Heat Level: 3.5/5
Rating: 5 stars!

Abandoned as a young boy at Werrick Castle as payment for his father's betrayal, Sir Geordie Strafford spent his childhood with the daughter of the Earl of Werrick, Lady Catriona, after she saved his life by pleading with her father on his behalf. Geordie and Cat remained inseparable until he left on a four year battle campaign with the king to earn his spurs as a knight. Now, with that goal accomplished, he hopes to win the heart of the only woman he's ever loved, but Cat is keeping a secret that could ruin everything.

Lady Catriona Barrington has always wanted to have her best friend Geordie near her and when he returns from war a fully grown man, her feelings for him become true romantic love. But a poor decision and a terrible experience at court have left Cat pregnant and she dares not tell Geordie for fear of his retaliation against the man who seduced and took advantage of her. Cat won't stand by and allow Geordie to lose everything he's fought for on her behalf. Though she loves him, she knows they cannot be together.

When Geordie is summoned to court for a feast in his honor Cat joins him under the guise of meeting a potential suitor, though her real goal is to hide her pregnancy from her barren older sister and confront the child's father. But nothing is quite as it should be at court and just when Cat and Geordie finally seem to be finding their way to happiness, it is snatched from their grasp, perhaps permanently.

In reading this entire series I've been cheering for Geordie and Cat to be together. They've always been adorable, even as just friends. I just wish Cat had been more honest with him up front and it would have saved a lot of heartbreak, but that wouldn't be realistic of course. I loved Geordie. He was the perfect sensitive yet strong hero and I loved seeing him and Cat finally get their happy ending. I'm so excited but also sad for the next and final installment in the series.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

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