The Warrior (Return of the Highlanders, #3) by Margaret Mallory

Feb 04, 2013 Elis Madison rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: adventure-and-danger, authors-to-follow, era-medieval, he-loves-me-she-loves-me-not, marriage-of-convenience, mean-people, not-a-regency, please-let-me-kill-the-villain, ru-kidding-me, use-your-words, we-don-t-need-no-stinkin-logic

Duncan MacDonald knows that lovely Moira, his best friend's sister, is not for him. She's a laird's daughter, he's a nameless bastard. But when she sets out to seduce him, he can't resist. He keeps warning her that the day her father finds out about them, he's toast, but Moira is naïve and spoiled, and she truly believes that if she tells her da she wants Duncan, she'll get what she wants.

The only reason Duncan's not dead is cuz a seer told Moira's father that he'd one day save Connor's life. So...more

1 like · like · see review

Feb 23, 2013 Laura the Highland Hussy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: highlander-books

I’ve been following this series since the first book and I’ve just loved it. I don’t think you can go wrong with a Margaret Mallory book.

In this one, Tearlag (the witch) is sending Duncan to check on Moira, Connor’s sister. We see Duncan angry about being sent to Ireland to check on the woman he once loved. Moira and he had a fast and furious fling about 7 years ago, but her father found out and sent Duncan away, marrying Moira off to someone else.

This was the worst thing to ever happen, not ju...more I’ve been following this series since the first book and I’ve just loved it. I don’t think you can go wrong with a Margaret Mallory book.

In this one, Tearlag (the witch) is sending Duncan to check on Moira, Connor’s sister. We see Duncan angry about being sent to Ireland to check on the woman he once loved. Moira and he had a fast and furious fling about 7 years ago, but her father found out and sent Duncan away, marrying Moira off to someone else.

This was the worst thing to ever happen, not just because she loved Duncan, but Moira’s husband beat her constantly. This horrid man made their son get rid of his dog, and beat Moira in front of him. Their 7 year old son. Suffice it to say, that the only reason she let her son go foster with a neighboring clan was she knew it would keep him out of Sean’s reach.

But shortly after their son is sent away, Hugh (the bad guy) is back in the picture, and he wants Moira’s son.

Meanwhile, Duncan is furious he has to go see Moira being happy go lucky lady of the manor. Little does he know, he’s going to prove Tearlag’s vision correct-he finds Moira in a pool of blood. This sort of rekindles their relationship, but really Moira just wants to get her son back. Especially because of something that happened with her husband (can’t tell, it’s a spoiler!).

I think the beginning started off strong, but I started to not like Moira right about here. I mean, I liked her, but wanted to see her grow up a bit.

I think the author wanted to show the younger version of Moira as being spoiled and headstrong, and not thinking things through. This may have worked a little too well with me. Like the hero, too often I felt she was still behaving rashly and impulsively. With everything that she had been through, I would have thought she’d have grown up a bit more.

It wasn’t until the last third of the book I really saw Moira’s growth. I think it was supposed to have been there all along, but I didn’t see it. Duncan and Moira have a lot of hurdles in their path, but they deal with them, and they both learn a lot about who the other is now. They are no longer young teens, but adults with a lot of hurt, anger and betrayal between them. Yet they are able to overcome their obstacles and re-fall in love.

That being said, I did enjoy the book, and I really have loved this series. I absolutely recommend this one to any Historical fan, any Scottish Romance fan, and really, anyone who just wants good romance.

***ARC courtesy of netgalley and Forever Romance
(less)

1 like · like · see review

Jan 03, 2013 Kat ~ Forever Book Lover ♥ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, highlander, netgalley

You can find this review and more at Forever Book Lover.

I was looking forward to Duncan's story and Margaret Mallory didn't let me down. THis was a wonderful roller coaster of a book. So much so that I didn't know which way the story line would turn next... On land and at sea, hold on tight - your are in for a ride of your life.

Our hero, Duncan loved Moira for a better part of his life. But as the story goes, he was a class beneath her and her father had a different bridegroom planned for his yo...more

like · see review

Dec 11, 2012 CoffeeTimeRomance andMore rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

When Moira MacDonald was a young lass, she made the mistake of falling in love with the wrong man. It is something she has spent years trying to put behind her. Now the wife of a violent bully, she is no longer a cherished chieftain’s daughter. Moira’s days are consumed with protecting her son from the man he calls father, and wishing her clan would somehow know to send help.

Being born a bastard means spending your life trying to prove your worth. Duncan has always done the right thing, except w...more

like · see review

Dec 01, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Margaret Mallory, as she has often done before, pulls the reader into a memorable vicarious experience in long-ago Scotland. Her rich, eloquent writing style sweeps the reader into a sensory loaded adventure—spine-tingling, sometimes frightening, and, best of all, has magical love scenes that take the breath away, set the heart pounding, and assures one that true love finds a way—even if it is thwarted at every turn. The Warrior is an...more Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Margaret Mallory, as she has often done before, pulls the reader into a memorable vicarious experience in long-ago Scotland. Her rich, eloquent writing style sweeps the reader into a sensory loaded adventure—spine-tingling, sometimes frightening, and, best of all, has magical love scenes that take the breath away, set the heart pounding, and assures one that true love finds a way—even if it is thwarted at every turn. The Warrior is another of Return of the Highlanders series. It sizzles with love and captivates with intrigues, and sends the heart racing with the dangers.

Eight years after the warrior Duncan last saw Moira MacDonald, Tearleg, the clan seer, tells him she heard Moira’s voice, sees a pool of blood, then a savage storm. He must go to her. It will change his fate and help the clan in its time of need. Connor, Moira’s brother now the chieftain of the clan, tells Duncan to go.

Seventeen-year-old, willful, beautiful, spoiled Moira MacDonald has her chieftain father wrapped around her little finger and thinks she has eluded detection as she meets Duncan in their special place. Then Duncan leaves without telling her goodbye. He goes to war in France. She doesn’t know the truth about why he left. But angry, bitter, broken-hearted and desperate, she marries the Irish chieftain MacQuillan. Her charmed first seventeen years of life deteriorated to years of a living hell, fearing for her life, trying to protect her son, and keeping both their souls from being destroyed by her cruel, abusive husband. She becomes a complex individual with unique strengths. She blames Duncan for her misery and guards her heart, feeling she could not survive it being ripped to shreds again. While some of her selfish traits seem ingrained into her very being, they serve her well. Her intelligence and understanding of human nature prove invaluable to her and her clan.

Now captain of guard for the MacDonald clan, Duncan is a mighty warrior and respected by his men. The bastard son of the nursemaid for Connor and Moira, he’d grown up with them. He and Connor watch each other’s backs as they fight the enemy. They trust each other implicitly—tried and true friends. Silently Duncan carries the shame of his sire violating the Highland tradition requiring the man claim his child, regardless of whether he is married to the mother or not. Their stations in life are very different, but it does not show in their relationship. However, Duncan knows it is different with Moira. Even though she is his forever love, he believes she has to wed a chieftain of another clan to strengthen alliances according to custom.

Secondary characters add a rich, varied texture to The Warrior. The antagonists are fearful, mighty force that test the mettle of all the Macdonald clan. They keep the tension high. One of the most interesting characters is the wolfhound Sar. He is forever loyal to Moira and her son Ragnall, but proves to be a true ally to Duncan in a time that is pivotal to the plot. Tearleg, the seer, adds a touch of humor as well as a touch of the supernatural, while Ilsya, Duncan’s sister, also adds a touch of the supernatural but most of all she lets the reader see loyalty, industry, and unrequited love. So many more of the characters are intriguing and all blend to create a mesmerizing story.

If you have read The Guardian and/ or The Sinner you will get to caught up on some old acquaintances. If you have not then The Warrior is a great place to start. I am looking forward to The Chieftain.

The Warrior is a riveting historical tale that throbs with life and love. (less)

like · see review

Nov 25, 2012 Sharon Tyler rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Warrior by Margaret Mallory is a historical romance and part of the The Return of the Highlanders series. Duncan MacDonald fell in love with the chieftain's daughter, but was forced to leave his true love behind. He felt himself unworthy of her love, because he is the bastard son of a servant, and has never felt that he had risen above his birth. After fighting to protect the clan for years he is a proven warrior and has the chance to see his love again. Moira is that love, married off to an...more

like · see review

Nov 19, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, scottish

THE WARRIOR by Margaret Mallory is an exciting Scottish historical romance set in 1516 Scotland. Book 3 in " The Return of the Highlanders",but can be read as a stand alone. See," The Guardian" and "The Sinner". Fast paced and action packed from beginning to the last page. Filled with danger,passion,sacrifice,secrets,spousal abuse,romance,betrayal,lies,and love. Follow Duncan MacDonald from the Isle of Skye on a mission to save his one true love, Moira. Duncan is one of the four MacDonald clan w...more

like · see review

Oct 31, 2012 Marcia rated it 3 of 5 stars

The Warrior, Margaret Mallory

Duncan MacDonald made the mistake of falling in love with his Lairds daughter and his best friend’s sister much to his detriment. He took Moira’s virginity and was giving a choice, leave the clan to find his own way, our follow the Lairds son overseas into battle. He chose to follow his best friend. Now home he his second in command and has been sent to see about Moira and her son due to an ominous premonition of death and blood. Will he be blinded by the pedestal he...more The Warrior, Margaret Mallory

Duncan MacDonald made the mistake of falling in love with his Lairds daughter and his best friend’s sister much to his detriment. He took Moira’s virginity and was giving a choice, leave the clan to find his own way, our follow the Lairds son overseas into battle. He chose to follow his best friend. Now home he his second in command and has been sent to see about Moira and her son due to an ominous premonition of death and blood. Will he be blinded by the pedestal he placed her on or will he see her for the strong woman she has become.

Bookswagger Marcia: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. Everyone already knows I love the Highlands, there is nothing like a man in a kilt to make for a good read. Moira was a very willful heroine at first, almost to the point of unlikable, but I knew Mrs. Mallory was not going to make us hate her for long. She turned out to be a wonderful mother raising her son the best way she knew how, protecting him from the man she had to let him call father. Duncan on the other hand was a very responsible hero, who fell in love above his station or so he believed and felt he deserved every negative thing that happened to him because of it. These two separate were great and extremely likable. Together they were a little irritating but still a decent read and did not put me off the series at all. In fact I found this story to be very realistic. If you decide to read it let me know what you think.

Bookswagger Danielle: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. There was plenty of action, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters were well written and I could really get a feel for their individual personalities. I struggled to like Duncan and Moira as a couple. I almost felt like they didn’t deserve to be together. For example, they were in love but lacked faith in each other. Duncan didn’t have enough faith in Moira to take a chance (not even just once) Moira would be able to handle a rougher life. While Moira didn’t have faith in Duncan’s love; therefore she neglected to fight against her first marriage. I also didn’t like what I felt was game playing, flirting with others. What saved them in my opinion as a couple was the devotion that was apparent in the end. If sailing in freezing weather didn’t convince me they belonged together sleeping in the house with a cow would have. My husband should thank his lucky stars I don’t have to do any of that to help him because he might be out of luck.
(less)

like · see review

Oct 24, 2012 The Window Seat rated it 2 of 5 stars

This is the third book in a series that follows four childhood friends in the MacDonald Clan on the Isle of Skye in the Sixteenth Century. So far so good, right? Duncan is the bastard son of the Clan nursemaid who has fallen madly in love with the daughter of the Clan Chieftain and coincidentally his best friend’s sister, Moira. Moira is the typical “spoiled little daddy’s girl” who can do no wrong, and takes chances with Duncan’s safety at the tender age of 17 without thinking of the consequenc...more

like · see review

Oct 15, 2012 Shauni rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reading-romance-challenge

Margaret Mallory does it AGAIN!! In her third book of her Return of the Highlander Series Ms Mallory tells us Duncan's story and oh what a story it is. These four young men have returned from France to save their clan. The tightrope they must walk between clans who have been allies and powerful clans that have the kings ear is a constant battle.

Duncan MacDonald, bastard child of one of the evilest men, scion to the clan's greatest enemies. He has been ordered by his Laird to go to Ireland and ch...more Margaret Mallory does it AGAIN!! In her third book of her Return of the Highlander Series Ms Mallory tells us Duncan's story and oh what a story it is. These four young men have returned from France to save their clan. The tightrope they must walk between clans who have been allies and powerful clans that have the kings ear is a constant battle.

Duncan MacDonald, bastard child of one of the evilest men, scion to the clan's greatest enemies. He has been ordered by his Laird to go to Ireland and check on the Laird's sister. Duncan having been in love with the lovely Moira since he was a teen was loath to go. He did not want to go and see her happy with another man. And yet, he knew he was the clan's best bet for the trip. Upon arrival he finds things not quite as they seem but in his jealousy and loss he misses the signs.

Moira, princess of the MacDonalds.. adored daughter.. has been in love with Duncan MacDonald since he was a teen. When he left abruptly she discovered she was pregnant and agreed to be married immediately to a man of her father's choice. Only to spend the next seven years being verbally abused. Finally after an aborted escape attempt her fears are justified and her son is sent to the MacDonald's greatest enemy for foster. When Duncan arrives she refuses to believe that he can help and his behavior only causes more disaster for Moira..

Finding Moira bloody and battered Duncan and she escape into the storms of the Scottish Isles. One disaster after another leaves them stranded with a neighboring clan where they slowly begin to find their way back to each other. Only Moira still has secrets and Duncan still doesn't believe he is good enough for her.

As their inner turmoil heats up, so too does the battle for MacDonald lands. Duncan is sent into battle and Moira must learn how to stand firm. And Duncan must accept a woman's assistance..

This story is a wonderful addition to this series and tells Duncan and Moira's story beautifully as well as advancing the overall story arc. It was a complete thrill to read this book and I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of The Warrior provided by netgalley and is scheduled for release on October 30, 2012
(less)

like · see review

Jul 26, 2012 Fiona Druce rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: All Highlander fans, historical fans, history fans

Shelves: favs

Duncan MacDonald is the bastard son of a mystery man who never claimed him. With no name to give him credence, Duncan becomes a renowned warrior in his own right and Captain of Chieftain Connor MacDonald’s forces. He wins many a battle, but lost his heart years ago to Connor’s sister, the beautiful Moira.

But what can a bastard offer a Scottish princess?

Moira is strong-willed, strong-headed, and strong-hearted in this tale of love lost, regained, and renewed. Wedded to a man not even his own moth...more

2 likes · like · see review

Jul 26, 2012 Farrah rated it 5 of 5 stars

This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

I LOVED The Warrior. It was a brilliant book with romance, action, and drama. Basically, it was perfection.

All of the characters were well built. There was more to each one than just their assigned role. Even the antagonists had more than one side. All of them catch your interest and make you feel something for them, be it love, hate, or something in between.

Moira is definitely a survivor. After years of marriage with...more This review also appears on my blog at http://www.thegoldenruleof666.blogspo...

I LOVED The Warrior. It was a brilliant book with romance, action, and drama. Basically, it was perfection.

All of the characters were well built. There was more to each one than just their assigned role. Even the antagonists had more than one side. All of them catch your interest and make you feel something for them, be it love, hate, or something in between.

Moira is definitely a survivor. After years of marriage with an abusive husband, she emerges stronger than ever. She will do anything for the sake of her son, Ragnall, even enduring a marriage with a violent man. And when it came down to fighting for her life, she wasn't afraid to do whatever it took to stay alive. It was all very admirable. And she doesn't hold grudges. I was worried that I would end up with a book where Moira spent 90% of it acting like a shrew because she can't forgive. But, thankfully, she is forgiving. But she's no doormat. She wasn't afraid to call Duncan out on his crap and get her way. I really liked her character. She's probably one of the best romance heroines I've seen.

Duncan was also a fun character. He left Moira years ago after her father found out about their relationship and sent Duncan away. There's more to it than that, reasons that go deeper. But I'll let you discover that for yourself. But besides that, he proves to be a great hero. He's sweet with Moira and protective of her. After making a mistake the first time around, he's determined to do it right this time. And I loved how he acted with Ragnall. He was sweet with the little boy, and as protective over him as he was with Moira. He's definitely a worthy love interest.

The plot was fast paced and never had a dull moment. There are a few twists along the way, but nothing very big. The ending was perfect, not a single complaint there.

The Warrior is a wonderful book that combines romance with action and quite a bit of drama. I adored it!

5/5

Thanks to Netgalley for a copy!(less)

2 likes · like · see review

Nov 17, 2012 Diayll rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc

Originally Reviewed At:Mother/Gamer/Writer
Rating: 4 out of 5 Controllers
Review Source: ARC From Publisher
Reviewer: Heather

The Warrior (The Return of the Highlanders Series) is a historically set romance that brings us back to 16th Century Scotland in the middle of a never ending clan war that has taken many lives. In this time feuds are easily started as the stars may shine, and love in never to be taken for granted. Yet the same cannot be said for Duncan and Moira, and the Warrior is as much as...more Originally Reviewed At:Mother/Gamer/Writer
Rating: 4 out of 5 Controllers
Review Source: ARC From Publisher
Reviewer: Heather

The Warrior (The Return of the Highlanders Series) is a historically set romance that brings us back to 16th Century Scotland in the middle of a never ending clan war that has taken many lives. In this time feuds are easily started as the stars may shine, and love in never to be taken for granted. Yet the same cannot be said for Duncan and Moira, and the Warrior is as much as their tale as it is his own.

Step back in time with the wee lasses and head strong men of the Scottish past; be swept away by the longing of pipers, and a good scotch. Adventure, romance, and a lot sexy brogue are all tied into one heartfelt read.

I love, and I mean love all things Scottish. Being of Scottish heritage it is expected of me, but deep down in my heart I long to visit the shores, breathe the highland air, and just maybe visit one of those castles. If I weren’t a married woman I also wouldn’t mind getting swept off my feet by a handsome Scotsman.

Yet as I browsed the “pages” of The Warrior I found myself being fulfilled as the pictures of faraway lands filled my mind. The visualization was superb, and it was like I was actually standing there in 16th Century Scotland. At times I could almost smell the peat upon the fires.

The characters were written so well that I was astonished. At times you feel as if you ARE Duncan, and when you are not him, it is like you are in Moria’s shoes. It was an unbelievable experience to have as a reader, and one I sure hope to have again.

The sexual tension between Moria and Duncan was also realistic. Even the fears both had were completely relatable to modern day lives, and the struggles we have when we love. In some ways it is inspiring to remember that even when we’ve had a rough go at love that we should never give up.

I am no stranger to Margaret Mallory, and I will continue to read each and every book she writes. Each one keeps getting better and better.(less)

like · see review

Nov 06, 2012 Kelly rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: review-copy, romance, highland-romance

This review also appears on Reading with Analysis.

What’s better than a shirtless Highlander wielding a giant sword? Not a whole lot, though cookies do come close. I was a little worried about accepting this book for review. I usually try to avoid romances that feature warrior-type hero characters. All that swaggering testosterone is lost on me. But the first two books in this series were so well regarded that I opted not to judge the book by its cover and marketing blurb. I’m glad I made that de...more This review also appears on Reading with Analysis.

What’s better than a shirtless Highlander wielding a giant sword? Not a whole lot, though cookies do come close. I was a little worried about accepting this book for review. I usually try to avoid romances that feature warrior-type hero characters. All that swaggering testosterone is lost on me. But the first two books in this series were so well regarded that I opted not to judge the book by its cover and marketing blurb. I’m glad I made that decision and read this book, because it’s a lot of fun.

From page one, I was able to connect to Duncan’s character (but I had a difficult time connecting with Moira) and felt invested in his story. Because I felt emotionally vested in the story, it was easy for me to feel immersed in the world – sixteenth century Scotland – and to get caught up in all the adventure of the very active plot. This story gives Duncan many opportunities to strap on his warrior blade and go out to do manly things, and that’s fun, but Duncan’s a classic warrior-poet with a powerful soft side. Here’s a man who will write a song for you, pick wildflowers and weave them into a wreath for you, massage your feet, spoon with you without complaint, etc. So, yeah, Duncan’s got a lot of love to give, and I’m enough of a sap that I loved reading about him giving all that love to Moira.

I got a little bit annoyed at some of the repetitious fights between Moira and Duncan.

Moira: “You treat me like a child!”
Duncan: “I just want to love you and take care of you!”
Moira: “I can take care of myself!”
Duncan: “Really? You fell into a ravine!”
“Moira: “So?! I can still do it, and you’re stifling me!”
Duncan: “But I love you!” (not actual quotes from the book, by the way)

There were pages and pages of that, and it might be a realistic depiction of the fights many couples have, but that doesn’t mean it was pleasant for me to read. Other readers might find the spats entertaining–-I happen to be easily annoyed by bickering in novels–-especially because these fights show Moira to be a strong heroine who is not about to sit around waiting to be saved. At any rate, I was relieved that the story picked back up fairly quickly, and Moira grew up a little bit, and Duncan realized that Moira was more important than his masculine pride, and I went back to being a seriously happy reader with an emotionally fulfilling tale.

Aside from the lovers’ spats, the pacing of this book is very good. I don’t usually enjoy when villain scenes are intercut into the main heroic action of a book, but I liked it here, probably because those scenes were very short and took the place of the lengthy exposition scenes that would have been required in their stead. It helped that the villains in this piece are relatives of the major characters and shared a connection with those characters beyond the “meanwhile in the demon lair, evil is brewing…” interruptions. I was a little bit thrown by the Scots Gaelic references (actually, more accurate to say I was thrown by the interrupting English translations), but I appreciated how they added to the highland ambiance of the piece.

Although it took me a while to develop a connection with Moira, once I did, I really liked her. Moira is the daughter of a chieftain, and she’s very spoiled, confident, and carefree in the beginning. After her marriage, she has time to repent her youth a bit and to wish that she had been taught some basic survival skills. Throughout the second half of the book, Moira learns a lot and is able to support her argument that she is not a helpless waif.

Bottom line: lovers of highland romances should go nutty for this one, as should anyone who desires an emotional love story featuring a fantastic hero and a flawed but ultimately redeemed (and very strong) heroine. Although this book is the third book in a series, it works very well as a stand-alone novel (and I would know: I haven’t read the first two books of this series). Of course, you may not even need a reason to read this story beyond the shirtless, kilted Highlander shown on the cover (I don’t judge).(less)

like · see review

Nov 26, 2012 Diana rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, historical-romance

Historical Romance, 16th Century Scotland and Ireland

This is the 3rd in a series of interconnected romances. I have not read the others, but this worked fine as a stand-alone. There may have been some points that would have been more evident if I had read the others.

A solid reunion romance with the lovers getting back together after 7 years apart. The hero, Duncan, is a likeable guy, the heroine, Moira, less so. The grand misunderstanding fills most of the book. Moira’s father married her off to...more

like · see review

Nov 13, 2012 Mary (BookHounds) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, netgalley, from-publisher-author

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

Dog Alert!

Moira falls in love with Duncan as a teen and Duncan returns that love but realizes she is above him in class and there is no future for them. So when Duncan departs to fight in France, Moira is left at home and pregnant with his son. Her father marries her off to another clan ruler, Sean, who beats and abuses her since she is longer near her family and their protections. With only a wolfhound to protect her and her son against Sean, he forces Ragnall to choose betw...more

1 like · like · see review

Oct 25, 2012 Crystal Leo rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

Favorite Quote: "A lass should know how to protect herself," he said. "Your training in this regard has been sorely lacking, so I'm going to teach ye how to kill a man with a dirk." "That's the sweetest thing a man has ever said to me," Moira said in a dead-serious voice.

Duncan and Moira were madly in love when she was seventeen and he was nineteen. But their love was doomed from the start because Duncan was a bastard child of the cheiftan's nursemaid, and Moira was the cheiftan's beloved daught...more Favorite Quote: "A lass should know how to protect herself," he said. "Your training in this regard has been sorely lacking, so I'm going to teach ye how to kill a man with a dirk." "That's the sweetest thing a man has ever said to me," Moira said in a dead-serious voice.

Duncan and Moira were madly in love when she was seventeen and he was nineteen. But their love was doomed from the start because Duncan was a bastard child of the cheiftan's nursemaid, and Moira was the cheiftan's beloved daughter. They couldn't help themselves no matter the circumstances and Moira tried to convince Duncan that her father loved her so much that if she wanted to marry him, her father would let her. Duncan knew better though. Her father would marry her off in a marriage that would create some kind of alliance for their clan. So when he came home one morning from one of his over night getaways with Moira, just to discover his cheiftan and Moira's older brother Ragnall in his mother's home, he knew he'd just lost the love of his life forever.

Cheiftan MacDonald sends Duncan to France with the cheiftan's youngest son Conner and two of Conner's cousins. Weeks after Duncan leaves he arranges a marriage for Moira to an Irish cheiftan's son, and convinces her Duncan left her willingly. Moira is now left heartbroken and married to a man who would put her through seven years of marital hell before help would arrive to save her.

Now Duncan and Conner are back where they grew up to lead the clan since the Cheiftan and Ragnall were killed by Conner's Uncle while they were away. But after Tearlag, the clan's seer, has a vision about Moira lying in a pool of blood, Conner sends Duncan to her husband's clan to check on her. Duncan arrives in time to save Moira's life, but too late to stop her abusive husband Sean from sending Moira's son away into the hands of her enemies. Will Duncan be able to help Moira save her son? Will Moira forgive Duncan for leaving her? Most importantly, will Moira tell Duncan the secret she's protected these long seven years?

A sweeping love story with brawny stubborn Scottish men who fight like the devil himself and and equally stubborn Scottish woman who must learn how to forgive the man she gave her teenage heart too. It will make you yearn for your own sexy Scottish warrior! Four and a half wine glass toast! Enjoy lassies!
To read this review and many others, check out Reading Between the Wines Book Club!
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub...(less)

like · see review

Dec 17, 2012 Cherie Jensen rated it 3 of 5 stars

I wanted to really like this book because the previous two were so good. Duncan is a beta-male (able to function as an alpha when needed but also comfortable as second in command). Moira is the daughter of the previous chieftain and sister of the current one. She's been coddled and is known for getting her way with her father all her life. Theirs is considered a mismatch due to the difference in status between them.

The author tries to mature Moira with words by writing that Moira is no longer se...more

like · see review

Nov 02, 2012 Jo (My House of Books) rated it 3 of 5 stars

We are introduced to Duncan MacDonald in The Guardian, book one of the Return of the Highlanders series. He is a powerful warrior, but he's lonely, and he mourns the loss of his first love who had married into another clan while Duncan, Connor, Ian, and Alex were fighting in France. Given Duncan's demeanor throughout the course of two books, I assumed once he found love, he would be happier. And despite the fact that he finds love again (love renewed perhaps?) with his first love, Connor's siste...more

like · see review

Nov 18, 2012 Lavada Dee rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Warrior is the 3rd book in the 4 book Return of the Highlanders series. I've read every one of Margaret Mallory's books and I'd say they keep getting better but from the first to last it is hard for me to pick a favorite. The Warrior is Duncan McDonald's story though it's hard not give equal headline to Moira. This has been the case in all Ms. Mallory's books. The heroine's are matches for the bigger than life hero's.

Duncan is what would be termed from the wrong side of the tracks if it was...more

like · see review

Jan 21, 2013 Regina rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-publisher-netgalley, historical-fiction, romance

2.5 stars, maybe.

This book just was not for me. If you enjoy romance focused books and are okay with incompletely developed characters, problems resolved by improbable coincidences, and where the bad guys are just baaaaaddd and the good guys are golden then ignore my review and rating.

There were some really good ideas in this book. Every good idea though, just happened too quickly or too easily. This is one of those rare books that could have had either less happening or 100 more pages. The wri...more

like · see review

Nov 03, 2012 Laurie Ryan rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wow. I was drawn to the emotions of this story from the opening line. No, that’s not quite right. Spellbound might be a better choice of word. I couldn’t let go of this story or its characters. Ms. Mallory really knows how to show the strong emotion between her characters. And it’s not just Duncan and Moira (although what a bond those two have). It’s the secondary characters, too. Niall, Ilysa, Ragnall, Sar – I want to hear even more about them and the others. With each story in this series, I g...more

1 like · like · see review

Jan 07, 2013 Jennifer rated it 4 of 5 stars

I couldn't wait for this book to come out as it is about my favorite of the 4 men in Margaret Mallorys series. She didnt dissappoint as Duncan was everything I expected in a hero. Tough, hard, quiet; a true warrior but with a gentle side that makes me melt ***sigh***

If I were basing my rating on just Duncan, this book would be a 5 star rating. For some inexplicable reason I did not like the heroine, Moira WTF?

Oh I wanted Duncan and Moira to get together and **spoiler alert** they did, but thru t...more

like · see review

Nov 13, 2012 Laura rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Anyone who likes a lovely read

Recommended to Laura by: Won it in a goodreads contest

I couldn't have picked a better book to initiate me into the world of Margaret Mallory's Return of the Highlanders. Having never read one of Ms. Mallory's books I had no idea what to expect, but after reading "The Warrior", in one sitting (!), I went out to buy the first 2 in the series. Duncan and Moira's
story grabbed my attention from the first paragraph to the last. From their heartbreaking separation to their reuniting in Moira's husbands keep, the twists and turns of their story keeps the...more

2 likes · like · see review

Oct 12, 2012 Belinda rated it 5 of 5 stars

“The Warrior” by Margaret Mallory was exciting, suspenseful, and very sensual read. Margaret Mallory is a very talented author who has done an excellent job in research for her books. I eagerly waited for this one to be out because the hero was Duncan McDonald . He was a warrior from the Isle O Skye and a man of honor. He left his true love behind when he was ordered by his Chieftain to France to do battle with the enemy. He felt unworthy and deemed unacceptable to marry his Moira , the daughter...more

like · see review

Apr 04, 2013 Lover of Romance rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, medieval, scottish-highlands

Duncan, has never been able to forget his one true love, the one woman who has held his heart all of these seven years. When she married another man, he felt as if his world had ended, but he knew he could never give her a life that he wanted to give her. Now his closest friend and his Laird, has asked him to go in search of Moira and make sure that all is well. Even though that is the very last thing that he want to do, he knows he needs to do it. Moira, felt like Duncan had broken her heart, a...more Duncan, has never been able to forget his one true love, the one woman who has held his heart all of these seven years. When she married another man, he felt as if his world had ended, but he knew he could never give her a life that he wanted to give her. Now his closest friend and his Laird, has asked him to go in search of Moira and make sure that all is well. Even though that is the very last thing that he want to do, he knows he needs to do it. Moira, felt like Duncan had broken her heart, abandoning her when she needed him. She once would have sacrificed everything to have a future with Duncan, but she knew he saw her as others did, a sheltered princess. So she ends up marrying a handsome Laird of another clan. However she fully regrets that decision now, seven years later. She is now a mother to the most wonderful boy, but his father is abusive and she knows their time grows short. Moira, knows that both her life and her son's life is in danger. So she tries to escape, only to have her son taken from her and to almost be beaten to death by her husband, until Duncan saves her. Now it will take both Duncan and Moira working together to save her son. But Moira never expected to fall in love all over again with the one man that broke her hurt all those years ago. But now she is willing to fight for their love...but will Duncan fight for her and the love that they share?
The Warrior is the third installment in the Return of the Highlander Series. I have been fortunate enough to have been able to access it through my library. First off I have to say I just love this cover and portrays Duncan perfectly. He is well known for knowing how to sail on the sea, and is a very skilled warrior. Normally I am not a fan of long hair, but on Duncan it has a sexy appeal to it. Ducan is the silent warrior type, he broods alot and we see this in the earlier books in the series. But he also has some hidden talents we see peeking through. I also really enjoyed Moira, she had spunk. I really enjoyed seeing how protective she is of her son, and she is willing to fight to save the ones she loves. I found that a very positive quality, and I liked how she interacted with Duncan and tries to prove to him that she isn't a fragile doll about to break. There was some good tension mixed in with a sizzling romance. I also enjoyed the secondary characters that livened up the story as well. There was also a danger element to the plot that added to the flavor of the whole story. As a side not any of those that like a good canine in a romance...this one is for you. The boy's dog Sar is so protective and such fun to see the way he is blended in with the story. I have truly come to fall in love with the master story teller that portrays a vivid world which takes the reader back through time and makes 1500 Scotland come alive in the readers mind. Such a sexy romp that fully engages the reader with enchanting characters, a plot full of adventure and intrigue, and a sensual love story that will just break your heart. A Wonderful addition to a series that has me completely hooked. A Must read for those who love a fun and sexy highlander romance that will curl your toes!!(less)

1 like · like · see review

Sep 23, 2012 Jen (Red Hot Books) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Ever since I read The Guardian, I have been waiting for poor Duncan's story. The man has been utterly miserable since he was separated from his true love seven years ago. She is married to another --far from his reach-- and no other woman will do. I am happy to say that our wounded warrior is finally being reunited with his lost love and not a moment too soon.

Contrary to what Duncan has long believed, Moira is not living a happy life. She has no idea that her father forced Duncan to leave her al...more Ever since I read The Guardian, I have been waiting for poor Duncan's story. The man has been utterly miserable since he was separated from his true love seven years ago. She is married to another --far from his reach-- and no other woman will do. I am happy to say that our wounded warrior is finally being reunited with his lost love and not a moment too soon.

Contrary to what Duncan has long believed, Moira is not living a happy life. She has no idea that her father forced Duncan to leave her all those years ago. She thought her beloved abandoned her. And then she realized she was pregnant --and she had to marry the man her father forced on her. That man, Sean, was an abusive beast. Thankfully, he never realized that her child was not his, but he made Moira's life miserable all the same. And he sent little Ragnall to foster with Moira's clan's enemy.

When a seer alerts Duncan that Moira is in danger, he quickly journeys to her husband's keep. One look at Duncan and Sean realizes Moira's deception. He beats her nearly to death, but she manages to best him and Duncan spirits her away to safety. The rest of the story follows the resurgence of their relationship and the efforts to rescue Ragnall.

Neither Duncan nor Moira has ever stopped loving the, but each feels like they were abandoned. Moira thinks Duncan left her and Duncan thinks he was easily replaced when she married two weeks after he was sent away. They're both right and they're both wrong. And even though they are reunited fairly quickly, the angst and hurt feelings persist throughout the book. There are a lot of misunderstandings and bad information between these two, which was frustrating at times, because they are so obviously in love and they have been through so much.

I had to remind myself more than once how much Moira has endured, because otherwise her behavior with Duncan would have alienated me. He is such a good guy, it's impossible to not be in his corner. She castigates him for not giving her enough credit, but when I see her trying to punish him for the past --or lashing out at him-- it's hard to sympathize.

Overall, I liked it. I don't know that I ended up loving it quite as much as I thought I would, but I am still glad I read it. Now, onto Connor's story. He has to end up with Ilysa, right?

Rating: B

*ARC Provided by Avon(less)

like · see review

Oct 14, 2012 Dorine rated it 5 of 5 stars

5 Blue Ribbon Review courtesy of Romance Junkies. In an adventure across land and sea, a deep love is rekindled between young lovers across sixteenth century Ireland and Scotland. Will their secrets bring them closer together or tear them further apart?

In the third book of Margaret Mallory's THE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS series, we return to the Isle of Skye in sixteenth century Scotland, prior to Duncan MacDonald's journey to fight in France. We're introduced to the young lovers, Duncan and Moi...more 5 Blue Ribbon Review courtesy of Romance Junkies. In an adventure across land and sea, a deep love is rekindled between young lovers across sixteenth century Ireland and Scotland. Will their secrets bring them closer together or tear them further apart?

In the third book of Margaret Mallory's THE RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDERS series, we return to the Isle of Skye in sixteenth century Scotland, prior to Duncan MacDonald's journey to fight in France. We're introduced to the young lovers, Duncan and Moira, in the height of their passion for one another, when their love first blossomed without Moira's chieftain father's knowledge. Duncan always sensed he would lose Moira because his warrior status and uncertain parentage weren't a match to strengthen the clan's power or wealth. Neither expected to be ripped from one another instantly by Duncan being sent off to war with his clansmen, and Moira quickly married off to an allied chieftain's son. It was a miracle Duncan wasn't killed for violating his chieftain's only daughter's innocence, but he couldn't fight for her when he was assured she wanted another.

For seven years, Moira endured the cruelty of her husband, Sean, chieftain of The Glens in Ireland. After the death of her oldest brother and father at the Battle of Flodden, Sean's cruelty became worse. He knew Moira couldn't be defended by the weakness of her clan's current status, having recently lost warriors and land to another clan, leaving her youngest brother, Connor, in charge. She was stuck with Sean and he could treat her any way he wanted without fear of punishment. When Sean almost kills Moira while teaching her son a lesson in loyalty and obedience, she vows to find a way for the two of them to escape her brutal husband.

Connor sends his most trusted warrior, Duncan, to his allies in Ireland to enlist their help against their fiercest enemy, the MacLeods. Duncan dreads seeing the love of his youth, who he never forgot, with her new husband, but he cannot refuse Connor's request. Will the young lovers survive a public meeting without anyone discovering their true feelings for one another?

Duncan is an irresistibly fierce hero by looks and deeds alone, but it's his heart that burns the brightest. Moira's strength and spunk can't be denied and she's the perfect heroine to match Duncan's pride and loyalty to his clan. It doesn't take long to hope for Moira and her son's happiness, but Duncan's story isn't without sacrifice either. Love doesn't come easy for the MacDonalds, so expect the worst before they can ever look forward to a possible happy-ever-after.

Author Margaret Mallory knows exactly how to capture a reader's heart, gripping it tightly, not letting us breathe until the final page is turned. THE WARRIOR is heartbreaking, filled with tension, breathtaking passion and nonstop adventure from beginning to end. I cried by chapter eight and I'm still not sure how Margaret Mallory convinced me to care so deeply about characters I had just met. I haven't read the first two books in the series, so without any prior knowledge of what has happened so far, I was thrust into a world I couldn't leave until I knew their tale. That's the mark of a master storyteller.

For historic adventure across land and sea, THE WARRIOR is everything that lovers of highlander novels crave. If you've longed for a book that you must read within twenty-four hours, then this novel will match those desires, while igniting a few more in the process. A perfect romance, THE WARRIOR begins with heartache, enhances with hardship, teases with love and passion, and then rounds out the torture with uncertainty and danger until you're desperate for a happy ending so you can breathe again. Superb storytelling!
(less)

like · see review

Oct 25, 2012 Terree rated it 1 of 5 stars

This is the third book in a series that follows four childhood friends in the MacDonald Clan on the Isle of Skye in the Sixteenth Century. So far so good right? Duncan is the bastard son of the Clan nursemaid who has fallen madly in love with the daughter of the Clan Chieftain and coincidently his best friend’s sister, Moira. Moira is the typical “spoiled little daddy’s girl” who can do no wrong, and takes chances with Duncan’s safety at the tender age of 17 without thinking of the consequences....more

like · see review

Dec 13, 2012 Shannon rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

This ended up being pretty good! Not as good as Alex’s book, but still enjoyable. I think I was in love with Duncan and Moira from the very start. I liked how they progressed throughout the story. Their romance when they were teens is very sweet and I found it interesting to see how they had changed after they were separated. Both are bitter and hurt by the tragic circumstances that split them up and like every other romance book, there are misunderstandings abounding.

Duncan is just an all-aroun...more

like · see review

title link	preview: The Warrior
avg rating	preview: The Warrior Goodreads rating: 4.12 (337 ratings)
small image	preview: click here [close]
med image	preview: click here [close]
BBCode	[url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13232682-the-warrior?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book][img]http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1335476190l/13232682.jpg[/img][/url] [url=http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13232682-the-warrior?utm_medium=api&utm_source=blog_book]The Warrior by Margaret Mallory[/url]

The Warrior (Return of the Highlanders #3)

Friend Reviews

Lists with This Book

Community Reviews

new topic
Discuss This Book

combine
Other Editions (5)

Genres

Readers also enjoyed similar books

About Margaret Mallory

Books by Margaret Mallory

Share This Book

Share This Book on Your Website

Trivia About The Warrior