REVIEW

A heartbreaking story

Wow, this book had me crying so early on, it has to be some kind of world record. If you're in the mood for a weepy, this is a great one.

So, you may recall from the first book in this series, NEVER SEDUCE A SCOT, when the Montgomery Laird stormed McHugh keep, it was a mysterious hooded figure that helped him by showing him the way to the dungeons. That hooded figure was Genevieve, the heroine of this story. Her tragic tale and pitiful existence will break your heart. I don't want to spoil it for you, but suffice it to say she has been through more than any one person should be asked to withstand, and is, in fact, still suffering at the McHugh Keep, even after the demise of her main tormentor.

In steps Bowen Montgomery, younger brother to the Laird, to oversee the takeover process at McHugh keep after their own cowardly leader has fled. He finds a shambles of a clan to clean up, a clan that for some reason, displays unbelievable cruelty towards Genevieve. Accusing her of all manner of hateful things. Once Bowen learns the true extent of Genevieve's many trials before his arrival, he is beyond furious. That fury soon turns into a profound admiration of her strength, and of her tremendous beauty, despite the horrific scarring that covers one side of her face.

I also found Genevive's strength admirable, and although it was horrible to read, her story was engrossing and affecting, causing me to blub rather pathetically before I was even a quarter way into the book. That sad side to the story did overshadow the romance aspect, however. Usually, when I finish a romance, I'm feeling uplifted and all "aww, how cute was that?" But with this one, there remains a shadow that hangs over it, tarnishing it, because no matter what good things may have come, Genevieve will always bear her scars, both on the inside as well as the outside. So there's this feeling of wanting to rewrite her a happier story, because she deserves one. I am sure Bowen will be able to heal her wounds eventually, though, even if he can never make her forget them. He was certainly a patient and attentive hero, with a much calmer temperament than many Scottish heroes.

All in all, another great read for Maya Banks fans, with a hero and heroine worth championing.
4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.