Series: Brotherhood of the Border, #6
Traits & Tropes: independent heroine; duty-bound
Publication Date: 01.11.23
Genre/Setting: Historical; Medieval; Scotland, May 1301
Heat Level: 3.5
Rating: 4.5/5
Boyd Kerr is recognized as the greatest swordsman in Scotland, so skilled even his companion, William Wallace, prefers not to engage him. Lady Galia, Countess of Gurstelle, has held an English army at bay for months, but her castle cannot withstand the siege forever. Boyd’s mission is to end the siege with a trial by single combat so Galia’s men can join Wallace’s cause in battle against the English king and Galia’s reticence to accept help jeopardizes his mission.
Though Boyd admires Galia’s strength and intelligence, she certainly tries his patience, and attracts him as no other has. Galia feels the same pull toward Boyd and soon they are both forced to reconcile their newfound feelings with their prior plans to never marry.
I loved that this was a quick, fast-paced read that left little time for too much angst. Galia was extremely independent and determined not to need a man, and while this stubbornness did get a bit vexing, it was so satisfying to see her grow and realize she could do what was best for her and still be a good leader, taking her mother’s sound advice on being the countess while ignoring advice given out of bitterness. I loved that Boyd was open with his feelings and didn’t hesitate to communicate with Galia, despite her being more reticent. He knew what he wanted and was willing to make it happen and I think his steadfastness helped give Galia the strength to finally make a choice for herself and not just for her people. These two fell in love very quickly but given the strong chemistry between them and the danger each day was fraught with in this story, such quickly developing emotions made sense. I really enjoyed seeing these two come together and reimagine what they thought they wanted for themselves so they could instead have a future together. I look forward to more installments in this fast-paced series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/440603638
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5248969861
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