Wager with a Warrior

Four Horsemen of the Highlands #2

by Emma Prince

When love collides with duty, only the bold will survive...

Gregor "the Black" MacLeod is on a mission. He has been tasked with raising an army to oust the Pretender King who usurped Scotland's throne. But when he is met with naught but refusals, he must turn to his only asset—his brute strength. He spreads a wager through the Highlands—any man he defeats in single combat must pledge to stand against the Pretender. But when a bonny lass turns his challenge against him, he finds himself indebted to her service. Gregor intends to see his obligation through as swiftly as possible, but his heart may have other plans...

Birdie Morgan is in search of help. With her clan battered by raids from a neighboring enemy, she needs the strongest warrior in the Highlands to protect her people. When she brings the Black MacLeod to his knees—literally—she binds his strength and skill to her cause. But drawing Gregor close may have unexpected consequences. She isn't supposed to care for the fierce, commanding Highlander, yet a breathtaking passion ignites between them, endangering the very peace she is fighting for. Can they deny their desire for the sake of the country, or will their love destroy everything they've built?

If you enjoy forbidden romance, gruff alpha Scots, and stories of love conquering all, start reading this page-turning, sizzling Scottish historical romance now!

Genres: Historical Romance

349 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 6, 2020

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Emma Prince whisks readers away to another time and place with her steamy historical romances—where the passion is legendary, the adventure never ends, and the happily ever afters are guaranteed!

After several years as a college English instructor (where she savored her “fun books”—usually historical romances—on the side), Emma turned her love of page-turning, richly historical stories into a career. She lives in drizzly Seattle with her husband, their daughter (the wee lass) and a crazy cat named Oban (after the town in Scotland or the whisky made there, depending on who you ask).

Emma loves connecting with readers! Sign up for her newsletter at www.EmmaPrinceBooks.com and be the first to hear about the latest book news, flash sales, giveaways, and more. Plus, receive a free historical romance story when you join.

Follow Emma on Amazon and BookBub for alerts on sales and new releases. Or join her on Facebook for loads of fun at: www.facebook.com/EmmaPrinceBooks.

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a near miss with the hangman's noose, Gregor MacLeod, better known as "the Black" MacLeod, has tasked himself with raising an army to oust the Pretender King Balliol and secure the Scottish throne for David, son of Robert the Bruce. But when men are loyal to the cause, but don't wish to fight after the latest massacre, Gregor relies on his greatest asset to recruit his army: brute strength. He ventures to various festivals throughout the Highlands, putting out word of a wager- any man he bests in single combat must pledge himself to Gregor's cause. But when the challenge is turned against him by the most beautiful woman he's ever seen, he finds himself in her service temporarily. Gregor is determined to keep his word and see his obligation through as quickly as possible and return to his true goal, but a growing connection with the lass makes things complicated.

Lady Roberta "Birdie" Morgan needs help for her clan. Their borders are being harassed by a neighboring clan and she's at her wits' end as to how to solve the problem. She needs strength to protect her people and the Black MacLeod is perfect for the task. What she doesn't expect is to care for the fierce warrior, developing a passion between them that threatens the peace she brought him to fight for. They must either deny their feelings for the sake of their people or fight for each other and risk destroying the accord they've fought to establish.

I adored this book! It took a couple chapters for me to get into it, but once I did, I couldn't put it down. This wound up having all the elements I enjoy in a romance and even though there was some angst and a lot of uncertainty for these two, I thought it was handled brilliantly. I really appreciated that the forbidden love trope was so well-executed here and not taken too far. These two had a lot of time to get to know each other off the page, but I never felt short-changed by that. Gregor was essentially the definition of a good Highlander hero. He was a strong, protective alpha, but he also had past trauma and abuse to deal with and he was not the slightest bit intimidated by a strong woman. Gregor was also surprisingly romantic and quite the dirty talker, which made him memorable and all the more likable for me. I want my own Gregor now as I spent the whole last half of the book sighing over him and how he's always downplaying himself as nothing but a brute, but here he showed great skill at diplomacy. I found that to be excellent character development. Birdie also showed great growth in her leadership skills and I think these two made a great couple.
Also, surprisingly for me, not a single one of the characters annoyed me. This was an excellent book and I can't wait for the next installment in the series.

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

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. great characters and very good story.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't wait for this second in the series of the Four Horsemen of the Highlands! With the amazing Emma Prince's imagination and the actual history she pulls into the story, it truly does not get much better!
The background story of the Four Horseman is almost mythical, but each warrior is what dreams are made of! Gregor "the Black" MacLeod is desperate to raise men to help oust the Pretender King who is sitting on the Scottish throne. So what does he do? Make a challenge to fight men, who if he wins, will have to fight with him to free the throne.
Birdie Morgan is desperate herself! But she needs her people protected after they have been beat down from raiders nearby.
What will it take as these two meet? A Kiss. Yes... Then she has him. But what will happen now?
Full of everything we love, this story will take you on a journey that steals your heart!

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Wager with a Warrior
By Emma Prince

Series: Four Horsemen of the Highlands, Book #2

Release Date: August 6th, 2020

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook of
1. Tartan Book Reviews
2. Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3. Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4.Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating: Smoking Hot!🔥🔥🔥

Overall Rating: 5 Stars and 5 Kilts

True Historical Notes:

The death of King Robert I weakened Scotland considerably, since his son and successor David II was still a child and the two most able lieutenants, the Black Douglas and Thomas Randolph, 1st Earl of Moray, both died shortly afterwards.

Taking advantage of this, Edward Balliol, backed by Edward III of England, defeated the Regent, the Earl of Mar, at the Battle of Dupplin Moor in Perthshire. He was crowned at Scone in September 1332, but three months later he was forced to flee half-naked back to England, following a surprise attack by nobles loyal to David II at the Battle of Annan. This is people like these fictional characters Ms. Prince developed in this fabulous “Four Horsemen of the Highlands” series….

The Scottish Highlands, 1332

The four Horsemen met while in the Scone’s dungeon. The four Highland warrior leaders were taken as prisoners to be made an example of. They were MacLeod, MacAyre, MacKinnon and MacNeal, who were all taken to a cold, dark, cell with very little substance to survive on. They were all sentenced to hang-except they escaped the hangman’s noose, as some might say “it was a miracle from God!”Though Gregor “the Black” MacLeod would most likely say-they were saved by the skin of their hairy arses! They were all defending David the Bruce and made a plan while in the Scone cell if they got out of this mess alive they would do everything in their power to defend, protect and claim the rightful King’s crown! As they are defending, Scotland’s hero, King Robert the Bruce’s only heir.

At the Caithness Games Gregor “the Black” MacLeod was trying to get more fighting men for his cause. To produce an army and eventually evict the dark hearted, pretender, King Edward Balliol! As he underhandedly seized his position of power as Scotland’s selfish sovereign! Unfortunately Gregor is only met with a pile of rejections, so he uses his brawn muscle and makes a wager in the highlands. Any man he beats and wins in single combat must join him and bare up against this fake King~to put the rightful King David on the throne. Yet of all things it’s this bonny lass Roberta “Birdie” Morgan that brings him to his knees!

Birdie Morgan is desperate and needs aid from the most powerful man to save her clan! As they are being attacked by an enemy neighbor, Clan Gunn. Gregor MacLeod is a man of his word and honors his word to help her. Of course he is frustrated as time is not on his side, needing to get this treacherous pretender off his throne with a strong and formidable army. Now he finds himself obligated to Birdie Morgan and loosing his own bloody wager! He plans on honoring his service and getting out of this promise as quickly as possible.

Birdie has been acting as Laird of Clan Morgan since her Father Laird Clive Mogan got ill last year. He has no male heirs and two unwed daughter as she has a yo get sister Tessa too . Yet Clan Gunn has been doing everything from stealing their livestock to burning fields and Croft’s . They are leaving a lot of proof that it is them, but never want to talk and settle this clan war. They asked another neighbor-Clan MacWray for aid with no help available.Yet it is unexpected that Birdie is having emotions and desires for this braw highlander. Yet in the end what will it cost her and Gregor “the black” MacLeod?

Yet even having the strongest warrior it still not enough and the attacks don’t end. Birdie is absolutely shocked when Gregor publicly suggests a marriage alliance when the two of them have been secretly opening their hearts! Gregor feels only a marriage alliance between the two clans will settle and end this feud. However both Birdie and Gregor have both fallen deeply in love, but both put duty before their personal happiness and emotional feelings.

In the end what will it cost her and Gregor “the black” MacLeod? Do Gregory and Birdie find a way to stay together or is there no other way but to use Birdie as their clan and Castle Bharraich’s peacemaker. They both know the only way of ending these clan wars is through a marriage alliance! Yet Gregor is not made of stone and will not arch the womans he love marry another. He curses himself of coming up with this alliance! He didn’t know what else to do! Will Gregory be able to catch up to his mission and find more men to join his army? Will his shattered heart ever heal. A man who has been abused his entire life never seems to catch a break.

Can Birdie just marry another man from an enemy clan whom she will never love. Can she forget about her warrior. Not caring if has nothing to offer. As she is a Laird daughter named after Robert the Bruce. She doesn’t need anything but Gregory’s heart. A man with a dark past who makes her feel safe and protected. Will she be able to live with only these sweet memories going their separate ways with a shattered heart? Do Gregory and Birdie find a way to stay together or is there no other way but to use Birdie as their clan and Castle Bharraich’s only way of achieving peace. Will Gregory be able to catch up to his mission and find more men to join his army? Will his shattered heart ever open again?

A book readers definitely don’t want to miss!


Again Ms. Prince pens another phenomenal novel from start to finish. It was a story I absolutely got swept away and escaped the realities of the real world! Which was a great accomplishment, with a pandemic, and hurricane weather surrounding me at the moment. This book combines true Scottish history centering around pretender King Edward Balliol and King David II, who was the last Bruce on the throne. Yet it has a beautiful fictional romance too of two people who truly and deeply love each. However they have to put duty, protection, loyalty and honor first of clan Morgan first, plus defending and putting the rightful King on the throne! So they know they have no future together, even though both of their emotional cuts are extremely painful and run very deep.

This is the second book of “Four Horsemen of the Highlands” series, that I have read and loved. Though I must admit this one is a bit emotional so have those Kleenex ready. A book I seriously could not put down. It included all the elements romance readers love but for those fascinated by Scottish history will love it too. As this is during the beginning of the second war of Scottish Independence (1332-1357).

So this history geek felt this book was absolutely brilliant and I absolutely loved both the historical facts and the ill fated romance. A book you can read as a stand alone book or in series order. A book with many twists and turns including clan issues as well as political issues. I absolutely recommend readers to read Wager with w Warrior and grab a copy today. A book you will definitely love!

Disclaimer: I received a gift copy from the author for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.

Buy Links:

https://www.amazon.com/Wager-Warrior-...

https://www.bookbub.com/books/wager-w...

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wager with a Warrior
Four Horseman of the Highlands #2
Emma Prince
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Gregor MacLeod or otherwise known as the Black MacLeod is on a mission. As one of the four Horseman he has been given the task of raising an army to get rid of the Pretender King who has usurped Scotland's throne. But after being met with refusals time and time again he's got to use one of the only things he has left, his brute strength. He starts by spreading a wager throughout the Highlands. Any man he defeats in single combat must and will pledge to stand against the Pretender. But things don't always go as planned and when a pretty lass turns his challenge against him, he finds himself indebted to her service. All Gregor wants to do is see this whole thing through as fast as possible, but his heart is beating a little too quickly with this lass around and that could change all of his plans.

Roberta 'Birdie' Morgan is in desperate need of help. Her clan has been battered by raids from a neighboring enemy, and she needs a strong warrior to help protect her people. She litterly brings The Black MacLeod to his knees in a room full of men there in binding him to her cause. But in doing so she has opened herself to something she has never dreamt of happening. She is not supposed to care for this fierce Highlander, but as her passion ignites for him it endangers the very peace she is fighting for. Can they deny their desire for the sale of the country, or will their love destroy everything they've built?

This is Emma Prince at her best. This book is absolutely fabulous. There was non stop action and you never knew what was going to come when you flipped the page. Gregor and Birdie were so perfect for eachother. He had brute strength, but she was feisty and that made her a force to be reckoned with. I don't want to spoil this so I wont say anything more, but trust me this is one book you will not want to miss. Ms. Prince you have written a fantastic novel.

[Rainelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wager With A Warrior, by Emma Prince. Well everyone, I really enjoyed reading this book. This book is a good read. The plot to the drama was easy to understand and it related to the story. Emma Prince shared details of the story in a simple form, to keep her readers entertained.
From the beginning, Emma introduced the attraction between Gregor and Birdie. Doing this also held the readers attention in the book. Focusing more on the main point of the story, which is the romance and love that grows between Gregor and Birdie. This allows the reader to be caught up in the book. As the reader your imagination will get carried away with the epic journey of romance, love, honor and ones duty in the Highlands.
Birdie seeks out help for her fathers people at an ale house. She needs this help to stop the pilfering on her fathers land. Birdie request the help of the strongest warrior there. She finds Gregor in a brawl with a drunken patron. Gregor who carries himself with confidence, finds himself tricked into assisting Birdie and her people.
Once the two reach Birdies homeland, they realize that their own missions intersect, but before this realization takes fruit, chaos erupts even more throughout the land. At the same time, Gregor and Birdie can’t deny or fight the attraction that is growing between them. After moments of hidden embracements and stolen kisses, Gregor comes to a conclusion that will end the chaos that’s impacting Birdies homeland. This is one conclusion that will require ones duty to their people and their land. At the same time it will break the heart of what is true.
My fellow readers, I recommend this book. Until next time... read on. I voluntary reviewed this ARC after receiving a free gifted copy.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

I so enjoyed how the h bested the H with her brains. She was strong and confident but also admitted when she error. She was the oldest daughter of the Laird and at 24 knew she would have to marry eventually.

The H was the biggest man around. He was very honorable and didn't want to be the like the man his father was. He thought he wasn't a diplomat, but as the story progresses it was his way of seeing both sides that did make him one.

I did figure out the drama in the story (no spoiler's). I was happy how everything ended and we are treated to an epilogue 1 month in the future that was sweet.

This is part of a series, but is a stand alone. I didn't read book 1 and wasn't lost. I have book 1 on my wish list now because it sounds very interesting, as all stories by this author are.

The main and secondary character's are written so well that you felt like you knew them. There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and described twice (partial and then full).

I learned something at the end of the story where the author included her notes. I had no idea bogs produced iron - first time reading that. I've been to Scotland and Ireland and don't remember being told that. Very interesting!

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romance builds slowly and a tad of spice. I received ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review and all opinions are my own. (ljb)

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Emma Prince writes and carries us away to the Highlands for some adventure and romance! This series just keeps getting better and I loved Gregor and Birdie's story. As usual, one can tell this author has done her research and between fact and imagination, she has written another beautiful love story amidst the fight to oust the Pretender King.

I loved Gregor's character and considering the horrible childhood he lived through, it has made him a better man and although all he knows is how to be a warrior, when he meets Birdie, his heart learns to love fully. I also loved Birdie's character, she's such a strong woman who has done everything to help her clan but once she meets Gregor, her heart is torn in half. Both of them are torn between duty and their own happiness and your heart will ache for them.

The whole storyline is so interesting and is filled with action and a few twists and turns that will keep you on your toes. Emma Prince sure knows how to write them!!!

I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gregor Macleod is fighting his way to raising an army.  He and three others escaped the hangman and vowed to help put the true King on the throne of Scotland.  If brute strength is the best way to persuade men to join him,  that's what he will use.  That is until he gets brought to his knees in one match.  

Birdie Morgan has been trying her best to help her father protect the Clan from their neighbours,  but she needs extra help.  The nearby warrior games looks like a good place to find it.  Our heroine is an intelligent and brave young woman with a lot of responsibility on her shoulders. 

This is a four part series but each book can be read on it's own.  Lots of excitement and fun.  Not everything is as it seems . The fabulous characters will keep you enjoying every page.  

I loved it.  

[Vicky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Prince is a charismatic writer which carries over into her characters!! I was laughing out loud at Birdie besting Gregor and had to explain the scene to my husband & brother! By the time I gave them the jest and the surrounding of all these he-Men and one tiny woman, my husband expected me to say she kicked him in the bollocks! My husband is becoming fluent in @Highland” speak!!!😂 when I said nope it was a kiss, they both were shocked and I said yep exactly that’s how she beat him! Then they started to laugh like hyenas!!
This is a great series and I am truly excited for book 3!
If you want to know what else happens between Roberta “Birdie “ and Gregor the book is available tomorrow and it’s fantastic!!!
I received a advanced copy from the author, but these are my thoughts and opinions given willingly!

[Sam Walls · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romantic Highland Page-turner!

Emma Prince has done it again! Her second installment in her Four Horsemen of the Highlands series will leave you wanting more as it combines romance within a historical context to create a fabulous story. Gregor and Birdie are two strong individuals whose journey to love is a pleasure to read as they learn duty does not have to mean giving up on love. I could not put it down as the story develops into quite the page-turner! Please note while this book can be read as part of the series, it can also be read as a stand-alone, so do not miss out on this one!

[Carla Moreira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good read

Emma Prince seems to love introducing us to her main characters in either fun or thrilling ways. This one was no different.
I loved the intro and the book. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It ticked all the boxes.
*Intriguing over arching plot
*Captivating main story
* a Couple you want to see fall in love

My only regret is book three isn't out yet, lol.
If you like Highland Romance, then you will love Wager with a Warrior.

[SandJ10 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Prince does it again! This was a fast-paced, page-turning, action-packed story. It grabbed me right from the beginning, with an electric meeting between the hero and heroine. Gregor is everything you want in a hero--honorable, protective, fierce, and madly in love with the heroine. Birdie was strong , loyal, and smart--the kind of heroine you want as a real-life friend. Can be read as a stand-alone, but this series has me totally hooked. I can't wait for the next book!

[Lela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy Tim Campbell's narration, and he always gives the heroes a deep, sexy voice.

A lot of the time, my "reviews" are less of a review per se and more a collection of notes that I write for myself so that I can remember what happens in each story, along with what I liked, disliked, had questions about, favorite parts, etc. I have a TBI and otherwise my memory will not serve me. Others may not find them helpful, just as a disclaimer

Alright Gregor MacLeod, what have you been up to?

Mmm... I'm beginning to think that the Gunn's are not the ones responsible for these attacks against the Morgans. Could Lamont be in on it?

Gregor dirty talking her through their first encounter where he touched her is HOT.

Wait, wait, wait- Gregor's parents were villagers (his father being the largest man in the village, hence why no one stepped in to stop his abuse), so he was a villager who became a warrior. I thought the 4 Horsemen were captured and hanged outside the courtyard to swing from the big tree as a warning BECAUSE they were Lairds. Gregor isn't a Laird. Why wasn't he hung with the rest of the warriors?

I really love how the clan feud ended, with all three clans helping each other so that Bertie's grandmother's people (The MacCray's- who were fueling this feud) don't starve. I also love the accountability Bertie takes for the missive that was left unanswered. I'm glad for Cormac and Tess as well. The Gunn's seem like good people, and they deserve the same happiness that Bertie and Gregor have found.

Still no word from Tavish MacNeil. Artair Mackinnon has been checking in. I'm ready to see who is next!

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Highland Saga Continues!

Ms. Prince continues to sweep us along in her well written, passion filled saga of the Four Horseman of the Highlands.
Who would of thought that a wee slip of a lass would take on her role of temporary Laird to protect and lead her clan and the lengths she would go to to achieve it.
I don’t want to spoil the story for you readers but if you are drawn to the images of the Highlands, brawny men, strong willed women and the passion they stir together this is absolutely the series for you!

[Amelia Tinlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Prince is one of my favorite authors. She has a great lay of the land, historical information, and I learned some new things with every book I read. And of course, this book was fantastic and I have started the third book in the series. I love when stories and characters continue on to other books. I love strong women and hero men, love stories, and this one check those boxes. I would suggest anyone read this because it is very entertaining and it’s hard to put the book down!!

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

I could not put this book down. Emma Prince is a brilliant writer. This is a great series. I knew Gregor would have an interesting story. He and Birdie made a great pair. The characters were well-written and the story was full of intrigue, emotion, and wit. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

[Kasey Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

He came at her insistence to end a feud.

Lady Roberta must find a soldier to help her stop the attacks on her clan. To convince him she must best him in combat. Gregor MacLeod is trying to raise an army,even if he must do it one man at a time.

I really enjoyed this book. The plot was great and not predictable. I look forward to reading others in this series.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wager with a Warrior

Birdie made a wager with Gregor that she can best him and best him she did. He then had to help her with clan wars. They found that one clan were hungry. No more wars for they decided to help each other. Now Gregor has three clans to help with the fight against Balliol and make Robert the Bruce’s heir have his right to be king

[Nancy Yohe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Brute.

Gregor is a giant if a man fighting to build an army against the Pretender King. Birdie is laird Morgan’s oldest daughter. This unlikely pair comes together when Birdie bests Gregor on a competition and wins his commitment to help her clan in a border feud. This is a sweet story worth reading.

[Betty J H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting

Totally enjoying this new series by Emma Prince. It has a great story line with intrigue and engaging characters. Both of the books so far have been well worth the read. I can’t wait for the third book!

[Tricia Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book!

I have read all of this authors books and she continues to deliver first class material! Long live the four horsemen of the Highlands! Excited for the next one!

[Thadaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute story. But hero wasn't necessarily handsome, but he had a great personality. Even the heroin had a nice personality and wasn't too Headstrong but was understanding and open to her feelings for him. I look forward to another installment from Emma Prince.

[Nora Griswold · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold

I loved the boldness the herione had to get the attention of our hero. I laughed when and how she won the wager.

[mildred thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four horsemen the highlands

I carry wait to read the rest of the series if the first two are anything to go by kept me up till the early hours wanting to finish readingthem

[Mindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Wonderful Story!!

These 2 books in this series were absolutely wonderful! I love this so much! I can’t wait to read the rest of Emma’s books!! 💜💜💜💜💜🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰😊😊😊😊😊🍷🍷

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Historical love story

This was a good book. I have a little Scottish in me. I enjoy the stories of countries my ancestors are from.

[valerie baez · Rating 5 out of 5]

True Love

This novel was refreshing. Just enough of everything. Loved the main characters. Looking forward to the next book. loved it!

[Mary Ellen Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wager with a Warrior

Interesting story and a surprise ending. I figured all kind of ending for the story but not this one. I hope book three is just as good.

[Laura Pearson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5.