What happens when a loyal Highland warrior is forced to watch the woman he loves marry another? In this heart-wrenching second chance romance set in medieval Scotland, honor and heartbreak collide with breathtaking intensity.
Book Info
The Saint by Monica McCarty
Series: Highland Guard #5
Published: March 27, 2012 by Random House Publishing Group
ISBN: 9780345528407
Format: Paperback, 416 pages
Genre: Historical Romance, Scottish Highlander, Medieval
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
View the Series on Goodreads
Magnus “the Saint” MacKay hides more than a vow of silence. When the woman who once broke his heart is betrothed to his comrade, his loyalty and restraint are pushed to their limits. And as danger closes in on Scotland’s King and his elite Guard, the only thing that may save them both—is a sinner’s kiss.
My Review
I knew from earlier books that Magnus was in love with someone he couldn’t have—someone bound to a fellow Guardsman. There’s an unspoken “code” between them, and Magnus, being the ever-noble one, bowed out. But that didn’t mean his heart did. This book is a whirlwind of emotion: I cried, I laughed, I swooned.
Helen’s character won me over. While other reviewers may not have liked her choices, I appreciated her strength. She was young, caught between duty to her family and love for a man considered an enemy. In an era where women had little say, she tried to make the best of a terrible situation. Her spirit, though flawed, felt real.
Monica McCarty nailed the tension between Magnus and Helen. Their romance felt deeply personal and painfully raw. They both let pride hold them back, and the result was heartbreaking and honest. There’s one scene toward the end that caught me completely off guard—in a good way. I won’t spoil it, but just know you’re in for a twist.
Final Thoughts
The Saint delivers everything I love about this series: battle scenes, intense romance, and the layered emotional journeys of these warriors. While you could technically read it as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the previous books in order. They lay the foundation for character arcs and relationships that really shine here.
If you’re drawn to Highlanders, forbidden love, and redemption stories with heat and heart—this one belongs on your shelf.
Up Next: The Recruit (Highland Guard #6), out October 2012. I already took a peek… I’m in!
Related Links
⚔️ Love Brooding Highlanders and Emotional Twists?
The Highland Guard series blends epic battles with unforgettable love stories. Don’t miss this gripping romance filled with loyalty, longing, and second chances.
Read More from the Series
Love your review !
ReplyDeleteI wanted to read this series from the start, but here I'm and I still haven't. Maybe in another life ... or maybe if I hurry !!!
BT~ I do hope you make time to read them, all very intense and romantic.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by.