I must admit to being initially a bit disappointed that Rionna wasn't going to be the heroine as I'd assumed after reading the last book. As you'll recall (assuming you are reading them in order as you should!), Alaric stepped up to marry Rionna McDonald in order to form the alliance that his brother Ewan could no longer make after his marriage to Mairin Stewart. This kind of selfless honour describes Alaric perfectly. He's is a very honourable man and fiercely loyal to his brother, Laird Ewan McCabe of clan McCabe. That's what makes the storyline for this so heart-wrenching. The conflict of loyalties Alaric has to battle with is almost painful to witness.

After my initial worry, I soon came to absolutely adore Keeley. She was such a strong heroine. Emotionally strong, stubborn, determined and very caring. I thought she was wonderful and perfect for Alaric. If only fate weren't so cruel...

“Angel. I've gone to heaven, aye. 'Tis the only explanation for beauty such as this."

"Nay, warrior. 'Tis not heaven you've found. You're still of this world, although you might be feeling as though you've been gripped by the fires of hell."

"'Tis not possible for an angel such as you to reside in the bowels of hell.” 

I admit to crying like a newborn babe for at least an hour whilst reading this book. It totally got me hook, line and sinker. It's a real emotional ride. Bittersweet doesn't even begin to cover it. My only negative, and the only reason it didn't make a full house stars-wise, was that the sex scenes were a bit OTT for me. I realise this won't bother most people, people that enjoy erotica and such, but I don't so the second round of sex scenes could have been skipped for me.

If you are a fan of Scottish Romance as I am, this trilogy is a must read. It made me want to to straight onto the next book, which I did. Highly recommended.

4 Stars! ★★★★ ♥