Book Review-The Guardian

The Guardian
Return of the Highlanders (1)
Margaret Mallory
Grand Central Publishing
Paperback
Published May 2011
354 Pages
Scottish Highlands Historical Romance

Synopsis
Four fearless warriors return to the Highlands to claim their lands and legacies. But all their trials on the battlefield can't prepare them for their greatest challenge yet: winning the hearts of four willful Scottish beauties.

After years of fighting abroad, Ian MacDonald comes home to find his clan in peril. To save his kin, he must right the wrongs from his past...and claim the bride he's long resisted.

As a young lass, Sìleas depended on Ian to play her knight in shining armor. But when his rescue attempt compromised her virtue, Ian was forced to marry against his wishes. Five years later, Sìleas has grown from an awkward girl into an independent beauty who knows she deserves better than the reluctant husband who preferred war to his wife. Now this devilishly handsome Highlander is finally falling in love. He wants a second chance with Sìleas—and he won't take no for an answer.

My Review
Summary 
Ian, after years of fighting along side his three companions, they have finally come home. But when they arrive home, nothing is as it should be. Ian left five years ago, abandoned the woman he was forced to marry and went to fight, and spent much time in France. When he returns their clan is torn into two. His plans are to help his friend Connor, take his rightful place as Laird. But even more than that, to claim his wife. However that task is not as easy as he thought it would be. Sileas is so different from when he knew her as a girl, she is one of the most beautiful women he has ever laid his eyes on...and doesn't even recognize who she really is at first. Even though she once followed him around like a puppy dog, she has grown and has her own mind, and a spirit that is filled with fire and courage. He knows he has tasks to accomplish that may be close to impossible but the one that tops them all is proving to his wife that he is here to stay....for good this time.

The Hero 
Ian, has always cared for Sileas. When he was younger she was like a sister to him. But when they are caught alone together, he is forced to marry her against his will. So now he comes home, and he has been gone for five years. Now that he has returned, he finds her different, so much more than he could have ever dreamed. There is also something else, he knows her feelings for him are opposite from before. Ian knows he will have to prove himself to her before he could ever gain her trust or her love.

The Heroine 
Sileas, has always loved Ian for most of her life. Even though he left for five years, that still hasn't changed. However Sileas, knows that Ian is very different, he acts ashamed of her. First off he doesn't even recognize her, then he acts like he can just enter her bed like nothing has happened the past five years. Well Sileas isnt some humble lass, she is willing to fight for what she wants. Which is to be loved and cherished.

My Thoughts 
I have been wanting to read this author for quite some time, but haven't had the chance until now. Ever since the first book came out in this series, I have been aching to read it. So finally I am so glad that I had the opportunity to do so. The Guardian, takes us to a time back to the 1500's. At this time, in Scotland, it starts out with four boys who want to know their fortunes. Ian's pleases him none at all, in fact he finds himself greatly disappointed to hear that he will be married twice. Especially since he has no desire to ever get married. But we see that he does end up married, to a childhood friend, Sileas. He leaves, after being forced to marry her when he tries to protect her from her family. Not truly knowing about the circumstances upon why she left, he does marry her. Now he has returned, he finds things at home so different than when he left. First, his younger brother looks at him with disdain and mistrust. His father has suffered a grave battle injury. His wife, more beautiful than ever, but just as distant. I really loved how this story played out, there were many amusing scenes that made me almost want to cheer. I just loved seeing Ian having to prove himself to Sileas and grovel at times. I just love a good highlander who needs to learn how to be humble. I fell in love with Sileas from the start, she is so sweet and endearing, but at the same time has a fiery spirit to admire. She doesn't just meekly let Ian back into her life, she makes him work for it, and definitely was amusing to see. I also loved the love story....it had some twists and turn, some great action scenes, a emotionally gripping tale that will charm any that loves a good romance! An sizzling start to a recent series that is sure to sweep you off of your feet!!

My Favorite Quote 
'Ye did not claim me for five years."
He slid a hand beneath her hair and cupped the back of her neck as he leaned toward her. "Well, I'm claiming ye now."
His kiss was soft and sensuous, caressing her lips with a tantalizing suggestion of all that a kiss should be. 

My Grade On This Book 
5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Warm

Other Books In The Series 
The Sinner
The Warrior
The Chieftan