The Highlander Who Loved Me by Adrenne Basso 5 Kilts

This is book about a second chance at love as the Laird's Niece Lady Davina Armstrong  meets Sir James McKenna,  second son of Laird McKenna who has been been traveling with the Armstrong Clan. Davina and James meet spend time together and fall In love and  plan to marry. If you think that's the story you will sadly be mistaken. As some awful evil brigands attack them Davina is badly scarred on the inside sending James away and releasing him from their betrothal agreement . Davina has a big fears of men and leaving the house becomes a recluse and hides away at her Uncles cabin.

Five years later she says enough is enough and is sick of hiding away as James mother has been writing to Davina  for the past three years and invites her for Christmas. Davina doesn't worry about running  into James as he has been away on the Crusades for the past fives years. So they are both surprised and a bit shocked on seeing each other again which brings old feeling  burn bright to the front burner again. James sees right through this  new Davina and her unlikable behavior and understands the reasons. He lives with his own guilt from and not being able to protect her from harm at that dark and horrible time. He still loves her and has to convince her to be with him forever plus he has competition as his own brother Malcolm, though it is one sided. Davina does not return the feelings for his brother, though they do both seem to compete for her affections even though she still has a big fear of men she can't seem to get over.

Definitely have a box of Kleenex with this one as it is rather emotional and I understand Davina's behavior afterall no therapist and counselor to help work out ones fears and irrational behavior back in the day. I loved that James was so understanding and kind as that was exactly the kind of man Davina needs. As if she will ever come around and meet James half way I won't give that away. It explains the who and why of Davina's attack as well. You will have to read the story to find out but certain scenes definitely took my breath away!

Beautifully written that will pull your heartstrings as well as melt your heart and soften your soul. I really felt for both main characters and the agony they both had to confront and deal with. I highly recommend The Highlander Who Loved Me by Adrienne Basso an emotional and enjoyable read that has many twists and turns that will keep you guessing. I have been reading Adrienne Basso books for a couple decades and have yet to be disappointed I am always absorbed in her interesting and riveting plots that have me hooked right from the start. I look forward toward Ms. Basso' next highlander book as I hope she sticks to my favorite genre Scottish historical romance!

I was given this ARC from the publisher for an honest review through netgalley.com and appreciate

the opportunity.