The Arrow: A Highland Guard Novel

Started out being a great series. Chief was a good read. Hawk and Viper were also enjoyable and then the change. Book 4 onwards started the continual diatribe of lustful thoughts of the hero and heroine and the sexual activity - no mystery, no romance, very little story. I had hoped Arrow would revert back to the original story telling style but alas, I found most of it a waste of time - this book had to go to the bin.

Minor spoiler alert: I am having a hard time getting into this book in the series. I am finding the idea of a man taking a girl (child) into his family and later "wanting" her when she is grown offensive. Sorry. I love this series. Maybe its just me. I cannot get into this concept.

Another triumph for McCarty. Loved the characters, settings, and of course the journey, filled with scenic vistas, unforgettable images,and humor as well. Hate for your books to end. I have reread them time and again. Please don 't stop writing these wonderful and passionate adventures. There is always a great epilogue. Thank you.

Gregor MacGregor, known as the most handsome man in Scotland, is the archer for Robert Bruce's Highland Guard, code name Arrow. When he begins to notice changes in his precision, he takes leave to return home to figure out and resolve the problem. Gregor also needs to determine what he's going to do with his ward, Caitrina (Cate) Kirkpatrick, who he rescued five years before.

This is one of my favorite series, primarily because of the historical aspects. Unfortunately, there were numerous word usages and vernacular that were beyond the medieval period of 1312. Cate is repeatedly referred to as "cute," which has its origins in the 19th century, as well as "nightmare" and "wow." When I saw "chomping at the bit" instead of "champing," it immediately threw me out of the story. I've not experienced so many period errors in this series and these were only the ones I chose to research.

The story has an exciting start but then changes to focus on Gregor and Cait's relationship. Both are keeping some whopper of secrets and it was tough to connect with the romance because of them. When Gregor, in anger, retaliated against Cate in response to a misguided perception of a breach of trust, it was so awful I was ready for Cate to walk away permanently and that didn't change. What he did was unforgivable.

I was hoping for a much stronger story for Gregor as Cait seemed the ideal woman for him. But her duplicity was hard to get beyond and it was too protracted. The best aspects were when the Highland Guard were in action on missions and when they were otherwise part of the story. Unfortunately, the romance and historical parts were a miss though there were some very strong moments that struck an emotional chord that kept me turning the pages. It was interesting in spite of all of its flaws. 3.5 stars

(I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review)

The Arrow is a thoroughly enjoyable, highlander, Scottish historical romance. Featuring my favorite type of heroine (a strong-willed, spitfire) and hero (an alpha male); this novel delivers both on the frontlines of love and the battlefield. There were even some cleverly interwoven plot twists, that were slowly revealed throughout the book, which kept me on my toes! This was my first experience with Ms. McCarty's writing, but it most certainly will not be my last! I have now found a new go to highlander romance author!

Cait knows what it's like to feel defenseless. She watched as her mother was viciously raped and murdered unable to help her, the day her village was destroyed by evil, English soldiers. The only saving grace was that, as a result, she met Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor, a laird in his own right and one of the most skilled archers in Robert the Bruce's army. Gregor, not only saved her that day, but also assumed the responsibility of her guardianship.

Cait's love for Gregor continues to blossom as she grows up in his household. There she grows-up and is offered the opportunity to train in combat, a privilege usually reserved for men. Cait becomes so adept at it, that many years later, as Gregor is returning from a mission, he is shocked to find that the "lad" who is skillfully beating up on another is none other than his willful ward, Cait.

Even more demonstrative of her big heart, and further evidence of her mischievousness as far as he's concerned, Cait has taken in three children, who she believed had been abandoned, on the thinly veiled pretense of them being Gregor's "natural" children.

Soon Gregor who, at Robert the Bruce's orders, is supposed to be resting and recuperating before his next mission, after having his identity possibly compromised, is getting anything but R&R. Instead, he finds himself constantly being tormented with "inappropriate", lascivious thoughts of Cait. But Cait is determined to prove that she is now a woman, and that her intense love for Gregor, is not a mere infatuation.

Notwithstanding the undeniable fact that Cait is now a beautiful, full grown woman, there are a number of forces conspiring against their HEA. From the throngs of women who are constantly throwing themselves at Gregor, who has been professed to be the most handsomest man in all of Scotland, and trying to "trap" him into marriage, to the danger posed by secrets that both Gregor and Cait are hiding from one another, this love match will have to overcome a number of hurdles and threats, some of which will definitely take you by surprise!

I can't say enough good things about this romance! The sexual tension, romance and passion was well done, as was the character development of the hero and heroine, who both had to overcome substantial emotional impediments. Moreover, the action and attention to historical detail were also well implemented, further rounding out this five-star story!

Additionally, one feature, that went above and beyond my typical read was Ms. McCarty's Author's Note. So often, as a historical romance reader you are left to wonder as to exactly how much of a story is based on historical facts. Ms. McCarty takes the guesswork, and related research, out of the equation by providing a very enlightening, detailed account of her own research into the events described in The Arrow. This was an unexpected, and a highly appreciated, bonus!

All in all, I highly recommend The Arrow to lovers of highlander romances.

Source: I received a review copy from Random House Ballantine in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 Stars
Who could resist Gregor MacGregor? I certainly could not. The Arrow is a brilliant addition to the Highland Guard series and one that was highly anticipated. Monica McCarty did not disappoint. Gregor aka Arrow is well known as the most handsome man in all of Scotland and the title grates on him. Gregor hates being known for little more than his face and is use to woman throwing themselves at him for superficial reasons but Cate, Cate is different from all those other woman. She’s strong, brave, and determined to show Gregor that her love for him is based on more than a pretty face.

Watching Cate as she tries to get Gregor to see her as more than just his ward was a struggle at times. There were moments when I wished I could reach into the book and smack Gregor upside the head for being so dense and when Gregor began losing faith in the tender feelings he was developing for Cate, when he began second guessing her intentions based on his jaded past, well then I really wanted to smack him. Couldn’t he see how much she loved him? Could’t he tell that she would never be anything but genuine about her feelings for him? Men can be such morons sometimes.

Thankfully when all seems lost, Gregor finally pulls his head from his arse and we are able to put our faith in him once more. The Arrow had so many unexpected twists and turns that I was constantly biting my nails, waiting to see the story unfold. Monica built a world with a strong foundation based on history but managed to captivate our hearts with her beautifully written characters who’s hearts are more true than words can express. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next and am pleased to say that The Arrow is truly a great read.

There have been many criticisms regarding Cate our heroine, but what I gathered from the story is that Cate is strong. She is brave and stubborn and refuses to back down. She helps others and takes in those who need her. She has a strong desire to build a family, to gain the sense of belonging and security that was denied to her a child. Cate has struggled in life and had to face the rape and murder of her mother when she was only fifteen years old but that pain and that experience has not broken her. Cate is determined to be in a position to defend herself. She trains in warefare and can take down a man twice her size. How anyone can believe that she is unworthy of being our heroine, and unworthy of Gregor’s affections astounds me but that said, it is my belief that Cate is the perfect match for our Arrow and just as in the story when Seoniad was unable to see past her jealousy and desire for Gregor, I feel our readers are unable to see past their expectations of who the most beautiful man in Scotland should be with based on his looks, verses who our Arrow should be with, based on his heart.

Scotland - 1307

The English are hunting down The Bruce's men. They are killing the men, raping the women, beating the children, and at times killing them all, as they come to villages they feel are harboring those men. Cate hears them hurting her mother. She runs in hitting the man raping her mother, then is made to watch as they kill her, then take 10 yr. old Cate and drop her in a well and leave her for dead.

Gregor MacGregor is with Eoin MacLean, Ewan Lamont, and Tor "Chief" MacLeod, the leader of the King's secret band of elite soldiers known as the Highland Guard. They come upon the burnt out village. All women and children had been brutally killed. Gregor hears Cate's calls from the well and rescues her. She is starved and dehydrated. When Cate sees Gregor she thinks she's dead and seeing an angel. The Earl of Hereford's men had done this. Her mother was dead and Cate had no one... but she had her angel. She never wanted him to let her go. Gregor felt such a need to protect her, which left him confused because he's never felt this way about anyone. For her, he felt it through every bone in his body. Cate proceeds to tell him her father is dead although he really abandoned them when she was 5. He agrees to take her to his mother to stay with her. Over time, he comes to learn she's a tomboy....and a fighter for sure! She's always into something and it drives him batty.

Dunstaffnage Castle, December 1312

Gregor was standing in front of The Bruce, feeling about an inch tall, trying to explain why they failed taking the most important castle because he hesitated in shooting a dog that started barking, giving them away. He's been off with his shots for months now. The Bruce decides to send him away on a break over Christmas to let things cool down. He also received a note from his brother about an "emergency" and he knows it's about Cate. He's wondering what she's done now.

Cate has kept herself in trouble the last 5 years. She dresses as a boy and is constantly besting them all in archery contests. She's stubborn, speaks her mind, and if fierce. Everything a girl shouldn't be. She also wasn't a girl so much anymore. She's become a woman and Gregor is finding it hard to ignore how she makes him feel. His mother is dead and he doesn't know what to do with Cate. MacRuari suggests marrying her off and he agrees but wonders if he can find someone strong enough to take her on. What he doesn't realize yet is that she's set her sights on him.He eventually finds someone who wants to marry her but she doesn't want to marry anyone but Gregor. He breaks her heart by trying to deny he loves her and wants her for himself. She confront him telling him exactly how she sees him, how she loves him, then walks away leaving both their souls in pain. Monica's writing just pulls me in so emotionally, this part brought me to tears.

We have Maddy, Pip, and Eddie... children that have been left at the gates while Gregor has been gone ,with each mother claiming they are Gregor's by-blows, that Cate has taken in as her little family. John, Gregor's brother who's been running the castle in Gregor's absence. John is just itching for Gregor to stay home and take over as Laird so he can go fight for Bruce. Then there is Seonaid who has teased Cate relentlessly for years. This is one you will love to hate.

This story is filled with passion, heart break, perceived betrayals, trust, loyalty, and a deep abiding love. I find with each story I pick up by Monica McCarty that I am always left feeling enriched from having read it. Out of 20 years of reading,this entire Highland Guard series will always remain one of my favorites.

Originally Reviewed For: Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy

When you write a series of such historical intricacy as Monica McCarty there is an intimate dance between fact and fiction. As I have previously stated, in her Highland Guard Series Ms. McCarty dances beautifully. In The Arrow she takes us away from the fighting and into the Highlands. A sweeping saga of love and discovery.

Catriona Kilpatrick was discovered in a well after her mother was raped and killed and her entire town wiped out. Afraid for what would happen next she claimed to be a few years younger and became the ward of Gregor MacGregor, the handsomest man in Scotland. As time goes by that a young girl's crush becomes a woman's love. Only she has to wait for Gregor to come home. And every time he does she has to watch every other woman in the vicinity fall all over him. It's a hard time but Caty has one thing no other woman has...She actually loves the man, not the face.

Gregor "The Arrow" MacGregor is not just the best looking man in Scotland, Because of his beautiful face he has been demeaned since childhood as worthless and unworthy.. So Gregor has always felt he had something to prove. Which has helped him become the best archer and one of the famed Highland Guard. He has been outed and the king has sent him home to deal with clan business. Something he had no patience for. As the third son he never expected to become Laird...But war happens. Now he has a clan and one irrepressible ward to deal with. Spending time at home and in proximity to his ward makes him realize that there is more to his feelings for Caty than just that of a guardian.

Caty and Gregor have to learn how to trust. While their love is real there are obstacles. Gregor is insecure when it comes to love and he doesn't believe that Caty could possibly want him for more than the prize everyone else wants. The first time he is tested he almost throws everything away. His behavior leads Caty into some actions that threaten not only her belief in Gregor but her very life.

Not only does Caty lose her faith in Gregor but she has some pretty powerful secrets herself. The discovery of exactly who Caty is causes another serious hurdle for the two of them.

In some ways this is the least action packed of the rest of Ms. McCarty's Highland Guard Series but it's emotional pack is just as strong if not stronger. What The Arrow offers is a tangled web of love and betrayal. Revenge and justice. Family loyalty and brothers in arms. Wonderfully done. I devoured this book in what felt like minutes.. Another wonderful job.

Shauni

This review is based on the ARC of The Arrow, provided by netgalley

This is book nine in the Highland Guard series and it's a foregone conclusion I'm going to do everything in my power to get my greedy little hands on the previous books. I would also like to say, as someone who hasn't read the other books, the list of characters, who they were, and the foreword relaying the back story was very much welcomed.
 
Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor has fought alongside Robert the Bruce for seven years in the war against England for Scotland's independence. He is part of the Highland Guard, also known as Phantoms, an elite group of warriors; his special skill is marksmanship with the bow. (His mother's name is Lady Marion so I imagine there is a sly wink to a certain mythical hero) He is also "The Most Handsome Man in Scotland". This moniker, along with certain events from his past, has led Gregor to become very jaded, cynical, and guarded. He doesn't think anyone truly knows him or cares to know him beyond his pretty face.
 
On a mission to try and save a village from being ransacked from the English, Gregor meets Cate. Cate, fifteen at the time, attacked an English soldier trying to save her mother from rape, who in turn kills her mother, and throws Cate into a well leaving her to starve to death. Gregor rescues her, thus giving Cate a serious case of hero worship. He brings Cate to his home and gives her to his mother to raise. He visits a handful of times and Cate's worship begins to mature into love.
 
The story really begins when Cate is twenty and Gregor thirty-one and he comes home for a little rest and relaxation from the war. Gregor wasn't around her much while she was growing up, I never found it icky or weird when he starts to develop and acknowledge his feelings for Cate, even when he calls himself her ward. Even though the title of this book is "Arrow" I would almost argue this is more of Cate's story. She is the open, honest, and fearless woman we all want to be. It may seem like her love for Gregor was born from childish feelings, they in fact may have been, but she proves over and over that she really sees the true man behind the pretty face. It may make you feel frustrated as Gregor refuses and pushes Cate away again and again and Cate comes up with reasons to justify his actions. I found it refreshing to have a character think why is he reacting this way instead of flying off the handle and creating melodrama after melodrama. However, I'm not saying you won't want to slap Gregor a time or two and yell at Cate to just give up. These characters have sizzling chemistry together and you're going to love and hate them at times. One thing I promise you is that you won't ever be bored.
 
The pace is steady and will keep you reading and while the overall tone is a little lighter than what I usually favor, I was still captivated. I also thought when Gregor capitulates to Cate, it felt slightly rushed. He finally allows himself to give in to his feelings for her and then they're sleeping together and marriage is being discussed. There is also a Big Misunderstanding and even though it is contrived, I thought it worked well in adding something to the story. Furthermore, there are times when the large cast of characters are mentioned along with their nicknames, I started to feel overwhelmed but if you have read the previous books you'll probably just enjoy the reunion.
 
Overall, this was a heartfelt, at times maddening couple, historical romance story. Your emotions will run the gamut throughout this book. In the end, however, you will feel a sense of fulfillment and a strong desire to go and read the other books in the series.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

This is another great adventure with the Highland Guard, focusing on Gregor (The Arrow) McGregor. He's an archer and marksman know for his excellent skill. This particular story is less battles and killing and more life with the Laird and his Clan on his home turf, which can still be dangerous.

Caitrina Kirkpatrick has barely survived an attack on her village, she watched her mother murdered and she was thrown into a dry well to die...slowly. She is weak, desperately thirsty and delusional when she sees a face looking down on her in the well. She realizes she must be in Heaven, an angel has come to rescue her. She has been rescued by Gregor and a few members of the Guard and ends up being taken to Gregor's home as his ward. As she recovers, she realizes their are secrets in her life she must keep from everyone even Gregor.

Gregor returns to his home after a battle gone very bad. The King sends his Guard home for a much needed rest and the holidays. Gregor is not too excited about heading home, having to face all the people in his Clan that will need something from him and especially his ward Caty and her ability to drive him mad. Upon arriving, he sees his brother John sparring with a beautiful young woman in breeches whose skill is excellent. When they turn to greet him, he feels a punch to his gut and his heart when he sees Caty all grown up and quite fierce.

I enjoyed this novel so much, catching up with our heroes in the Guard and meeting Caty, so broken but so determined to never be at someone's mercy again. Gregor's supposed "children" especially poor little Eddie who has a problem with bladder control.
Caty has been in love with Gregor since the first time she saw his face and Gregor fights fiercely his growing attraction to her. There is danger, laughter and sweet love and secrets revealed. All the characteristics of a wonderful read.

I received this novel from the publisher and NetGalley for an honest review.
Pat Fordyce

This novel tells Gregor MacGregor’s story. After years of serving in the Highland Guard, Gregor’s legendary abilities with a bow seem to be slipping. He goes home for some rest and relaxation and discovers that the teenaged girl, Cate, he had rescued from the English years earlier had grown into a woman. A woman he is very attracted to. Gregor fighting the attraction he has to his ward is only one part of the plotline. As is typical in this author’s novels, there is plenty of action, a few plot twists, and lots of emotion.

Although I have enjoyed all the books I have read by this author, when I first began reading this one I wasn’t certain I would like it. It contains two of my least favourite plot devices: a guardian falling for his ward and children who are important characters. Usually the guardian/ward relationship feels wrong and child characters become annoying rather than endearing. After reading the first few chapters, however, the author pulled me into the story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. As with all previous novels in this series, it was good entertainment.

Gregor “Arrow” MacGregor is the Chieftain of his clan. He is not supposed to be, he is the third son, and he goes off to fight with Robert the Bruce to help him regain his throne in Scotland. He has lived his whole life trying to prove himself first to his father, then the king and his fellow Guardsmen, then himself and surprisingly to him, Cate. He is worried that his skill is faltering and then what will he be and have to offer?

Caitrina “Cate” Kirkpatrick witnesses the death of her mother and unborn sibling and she is left to die herself. She is rescued by Gregor, becomes his ward, and hero worship turns to love. She is self-confident, honest, determined and approaches life head on with enthusiasm. Her exuberant spirit causes Gregor to see her as a “termagant, God’s test of his sanity.”

The books opens with Gregor struggling with his attraction to Cate and it is messing with his head. He is experiencing battle fatigue and burn out, so he returns home for some R&R over the Christmas season. He decides to marry Cate off and ignores her, thinking it would lessen his attraction! MEN! Then he compounds his error by showing marked attention to and kissing her “friend.” Why do men insist on fighting their hearts? Cate has taken in children that have been left on the doorstep and they have become her family. They have given her purpose and love that she is missing and needing in her life. Gregor turns them into pawns; once again his “male” instincts fail him. Cate’s secret is a game changer and puts them even more at odds. I was surprised by the secret, in a pleasant way, but even more surprised by Gregor’s reaction thinking she is devious.

This story is magnificent. The back and forth with Gregor and Cate kept me turning pages. It is charming how she can talk to him and confuse, rattle and put him into a tailspin! Together they are a powerful force that lightens your heart. Once again Ms. McCarty has given her readers a strong couple with compelling twists and turns in her story lines. The underlying need for love that runs through each character’s storyline is brilliant. The HEA was charming, funny, and had me grinning and giggling. Watching Gregor and Cate come together was fabulous. I Loved the Author Notes taking me through the genealogy and history behind the story and looking forward to the Campbell series…Well done!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

4.5 stars

The Arrow by Monica McCarty is a 2014 Ballantine Books publication. I was provided a copy of this book by publisher and LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review.

An English raid takes Cate's family and she is thrown in a well and left to die. When the Phantom brothers found her, she was caked in mud and near death from fright. The fierce warrior, Gregor, takes her in as his ward.

Now, five years later, the orphaned girl has matured into a lovely young woman. Lovely enough that her hero worship attraction to Gregor has begun to make him feel uncomfortable. He is distracted and has made a mistake that lands him back home for a little break, which means Cate and Gregor are under the same roof for a time. Cate intends to make the most of her unexpected time with Gregor.
But, Gregor believes the time has come to remove Cate out of his home and into marriage. There are plenty of men still who would marry Cate, but Cate only has eyes for Gregor, who believes she only has a young girl's crush on him, but he is tempted enough by her he can't seem to stop kissing her.

“He kissed her. It was a kiss unlike any he had ever given a woman before. It was a kiss to destroy any indecision and all fear. It was a kiss to woo, a kiss to persuade, a kiss to convince.”

I so enjoyed Cate's character in this one. Her observations were always spot on , she was honest, had her insecurities and doubts like any of us, suffered a little teasing because of her training, but knew her own mind. She loved fiercely, loved despite of Gregor's faults. She loved the whole man and never expected him to be perfect.

Gregor, like all of the Highlanders is the series is irresistible to women, a member of a top secret unit for the King called the phantoms and is proud, loyal and has a heart of gold hidden behind his tough exterior. I loved Gregor , but at times I wanted to slug him. Men! It doesn't matter what century or country it is, they can all be so arrogant and pigheaded. Does he redeem himself? Well... probably.

Cate and Gregor could have had a smooth go of things if not for the interference of others. Once a the seed of doubt of planted it looks as though all is lost, but betrayals and broken hearts will have to wait when Cate finds herself in grave danger and her true identity about to be revealed. Will Gregor be able to save her it time?

This is the 9th book in the Highland Guard series and they never lose their appeal. This one is very sensual and spicy, but with some of the best romantic lines I've read in awhile, especially coming from a warrior like Gregor. So, yes, Gregor does redeem himself and there is a wonderfully sweet sigh worthy HEA that will leaving you grinning ear to ear. Well done! 5 stars!

~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

The Arrow starts out with a tale telling scene of a young child as her world was attacked and killed with her the only sole survivor. It was brutal, heart-wrenching, and it immediately hooked me to the story. I’ve read Ms. McCarty’s McLeod’s Skye a while back and enjoyed it but, The Arrow made a lasting impression on me.

Gregor “Arrow” MacGregor is an Archer and a skilled warrior under Robert the Bruce. Along with the rest of the Highland Guard, their ultimate goal is to fight for Scotland. Gregor is known for his skills as an archer but also a well-known heart breaker. Little did he know that the little girl he saved long ago will be the very one to capture his heart. Caty was beyond her years. Not only that she has become a lady but quiet a warrior herself. She has vowed vengeance to the man who was responsible for her town’s destruction. That and to marry the man who saved her.

I was stoked to finally read one of the Highland Guards book. I’ve gotten several recommendations for this series, and I just never got around to it. Would you believe, I’m kicking my butt for not getting to it any sooner? I truly enjoyed this book. In so many ways, Gregor and Cait reminded me of Brad Pitt’s movie Legends of the Fall. So much has gone on in the hero’s life that the one to finally put him at peace is the little girl who had always been waiting for him at home. It was romantic with a lot of tension, a jealous edge and a whole lot of intrigue.

However, for the ones who are fickle about infidelity, be forewarned. There is a hint of cheating in this book, and it totally broke my heart for Cait. Unfortunately, this never goes well with me. There are plenty of things I can forgive when it comes to the heroes I read about, but cheating is a big no-no for me…that goes with all my fictional and real life heroes. Gregor is an amazing man in every sense of the word. He is a remarkable warrior, friend, brother, and a laird, but all the respect I had for him drained the moment he used another woman to solve his problems. It’s a poor characteristic for any man, IMO. Take note that this is an opinion, and it does not reflect Ms. McCarty’s writing. She actually and incredible writer. Her execution of the storyline that coincide with the history was just amazing. The end part explaining more of her research was definitely intriguing. The hints of truth in these stories she tells just amazes me. I can tell she had shed some blood, sweat and a whole lot of time in her research…and for that, I applaud her. A beautiful job well done.

*ARC provided by publisher

-Contains Spoilers-

I was lucky enough to win this book on a Goodreads Giveaway as an ARC form the publisher. Monica McCarty was the first author I read in the historical romance department. And she keeps surprising me with her stories and making the waterworks go full force.

Mrs. McCarty is a great writer and I love that the tone of her books literally transport you to medieval Scotland. I have read many historical books where the author uses a lot of modern lingo and leaves you with just a story and nothing you can use for your imagination. Monica writes her stories like describing a picture but at the same time not overwhelming it with too much details. Just enough to give an idea and the right tone to transport you to the era in which is occurring.

In this latest book on the Highland Guard series Cate's little village was attacked by the English and everyone killed and burned. She was left to die alone as punishment for trying to save her mother. After a couple of days Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor said to be the most handsome man in Scotland rescues her with a couple of other Guard members and takes her to his home in Roro.

Been the best archer in all of Scotland after seven years of war Gregor starts having trouble with his aim-at least in his own eyes-and after a failed mission to reclaim Berwick Castle-in which his identity has been compromised-he is sent home by the king to lay low. It is then when he learns that war not always include people dying and the conquerors are not always kings.

Some people might say that Catherine was manipulating Gregor and putting him against a rock and a hard place, but I think it was necessary with this particular character. Gregor needed to see her, and the only way was for Caty Cat to be insistent and throw herself at him and be in-his-face or he might have always ignore her and not acknowledge that she was different from the rest of the female population who just wanted him for his "pretty face".

And then there is the surprise of Cate's parent. I literally didn't see that one coming. I also like that at the end Cate decided not to go through with the wedding. I was expecting a forced marriage because 'duh' that happens in a lot of books (at least the historical ones) and it was refreshing to have to see a man like Gregor grovel a little and earn that trust back.

MEMORABLE QUOTES:
"It wasn't bad luck," Gregor corrected. "It was my fault. I hesitated."
Bruce lifted a brow. "To shoot a dog?"
Gregor gritted his teeth, humiliation burning inside him.... "Aye"
"In his defense, sire, it was kind of a cute little blighter," MacSorley added with a grin. "And we did find out one thing that is important."
"What's that?" the king asked suspiciously, expecting the jest.
"The rumors are wrong: he doesn't just break hearts, he actually has one."

-----

The famed seafarer's grin turned smug."I'd say it's exactly like that." MacSorley put his hand up to his ear, as if he were listening. "What's that crashing sound I hear? Must be the sound of all those thousand of hearts breaking across the Highlands. The most handsome shark in the sea has been good and hooked."
Gregor shook his head "Hell, Hawk. I'm saying my vows, not taking them."
MacSorley waved off the protest. "I've experienced the lass's unusual skills first hand. If I were you, I wouldn't give her a reason to put a knife to my throat-or anywhere else, for that matter."

OTHER:

This book had a previous cover to it. I'll like to point that I like the cover with which it was released but I would have preferred the color of the previous one.

Arc provided by Netgalley for an honest review!

This is the ninth book in Ms McCarty's Highland guard series and as usual she knocks my socks off , I love everyone of these men and am never dissapointed!

This story features The Arrow as he is known to his fellow guards Gregor McGregorr is also know has the handsomest man in Scotland his looks always landing him a willing Lass in his bed ,but he is most appreciated by his Kingnand follow guard for his incomparable skills as a Archer! Seven long years fighting and secret missions for the king and Gregor makes an error in judgement which leads to a failed mission and a narrow escape for the team . Arrow is prepared to face the wrath of the Bruce but what he gets is understanding, the Bruce is upset but he sees that Gregor needs some down time so he snds him home for some rest , of course the letter tha arrived from his brother while he was gone telling him to come home over issues with his ward Catriana hel aid tha decision .
His will not be the first time he has had to return home due to Cate, strong willed and always finding her way into trouble he wonders why he ever agreed to take her on at times but he knows in his heart that he wold make the same choice again; Gregor pulled her as a young lass from the bottom of a well in Lochmoben after the English went to the village and decimated it for offering shelter to the guard She waste only survivor,pulled b him from the well and clung to him for everything she was worth.

What Gregor does not expect t come back to is a beautiful young women, grown, strong willed and finding himself attracted to her, he should not be, she is his responsibility , his ward . Cate is an unusual character , to help her overcome her fear as a child. Gregor promised she could learn to fight which his brother John had seen to in his absence ,but Gregor has come home to Comely girl who he believes to be only around fifteen to find out she lied about her age, taking advantage of her size a the time he saved her, she really is nineteen . Gregor tries to avoid Cate and the feelings she stirs in him, he tries marry her off ; but Cate breaks through his defenses, she knows him, she may find him extremely attractive but she really knows him and it starts breaking down his walls. Cate comes cross at times as manipulative but with hardheaded highland guards you have to take the the less direct route to see what you want them to see and realize!

So much more to this story , and suprises to boot and it kept me on my toes and wanting more!

When Gregor MacGregor rescued a young woman from a well; he just did it because that’s they kind of guy he was. Part of Robert the Bruce’s Highland Guard (the 1300s version of the SEALS), Gregor was “the handsomest man in Scotland” and had vowed never to wed as he was having too much fun.

Arrow, as he was called by the Guards, was an ace marksman with arrows and young ladies. Rescuing Caitlyn of Lochmaben on his way home was just another thing to be done. At least on his part. Fo=rom her position, Cate fell in love and never stopped. Boarding with Gregor’s mother and brother only served to fan her flame and she is determined to have him as spouse.

The MacGregor clan welcomed her with open arms as there were no daughters and she was taught not only how to run the house and accounts but how to fight like a man. Her father had left the family when she was five and her mother was killed in the raid that had Cate ending up in the well. All she had were the MacGregors; and the head of the house seemed unwavering in his plan to marry her off. For Cate’s own good as well as his.

This novel is so well-written I can hear the characters speaking in Gaelic as I read. Cate is one of the most stubborn heroines I’ve read lately and Gregor means well but needs to listen to something other than his own thoughts. The Highland Guard have been well portrayed in this series of books (check them out at www.MonicaMcCarty.com) as well as Robert the Bruce’s fight to keep the throne of Scotland in Scottish hands.

After rescuing her from a well and welcoming her to his family, Cate of Lochmaben owes her life to Gregor MacGregor. Even knowing that he has a reputation as a heartbreaker, Cate has fallen in love with him.

Gregor is home to lay low when his identity is exposed during a covert mission. He has plans to finally see his ward married, but is taken aback when he sees her and is immediately attracted to her. Knowing the longer he spends time with Cate he will be unable to fight his attraction. He quickly sets out to find her a husband.

What will happen when they finally given into their mutual attraction?

While I didn't like this story as much as I did The Raider, I did really enjoy it. I think the reason for that is the way that Cate acted at the beginning of the story. She was very selfish and acted toward Gregor the same way as the women who she kept condemning.

After I got through that phase of the story, I enjoyed it so much more. So don't give up on it!! I loved seeing the other Guards and the way they interact with each other, just like real brothers. They harass each other, but they all know they are loved by the others. Overall, it was a very good read.

Thanks go out to Random House via NetGalley for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.

After taking a break from historical romances I finally jumped back in with the The Arrow, and I'm so glad I did. Monica McCarty does not disappoint with this newest edition to the Highland Guard series.
Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor is the most attractive and sought after man in Scotland, not to mention one of the famed phantoms in Robert the Bruce's army of highlanders. After his identity is uncovered Gregor is ordered to return home to lie low. Looking forward to a break from battle and suitors, Gregor is unprepared to come home and find the "young ward" he took in years before to have grown into a desirable woman. Cate has grown up in Gregor's home, under his protection, but has always felt a bond towards him; however he never saw her as more than a child. This time when he returns home, she is determined to make him acknowledge the woman that she has become.
I love the chemistry between Gregor and Cate, even when he is determined not to act on it. Cate, for her part, refuses to let him push her away and deny what has been growing between them for years. Like all of the highlander guard that came before him, Gregor will give his heart to the one woman that is strong enough to stand by him.
This series is a must read for historical romance fans.

5 stars!!!!

Wonderful story! Loved this book.

How this author is able to leave me feeling as if I just lost my best friend whenever I finish one of her books, I'll never understand.

Monica McCarty never disappoints.

The plot, and dialogue is fantastic. And the romance is hot, and steamy.

I loved the hero in this book, Gregor MacGregor "Arrow". I've been in love with him since the first book in the series, and I've anticipated this book so much since then, it felt surreal to have finally read his story. The picture I have of Arrow in my mind is perfection; I mean, there's no other hero more beautiful than him.

I loved how protective he was of Cate... And possessive. And if there's one thing I could say about all the books from this author is that her Heroes, all of them, have that in common, (the double Ps: Possessive and Protective) and is what I look for when reading about any hero in a romance novel. And this, Monica gives in abundance, which is why I love these books so damn much.

The heroine, Cate, was just simply adorable. I loved how determined she was to get Gregor to notice her, to prove to him he wanted her as much a she wanted him. And no matter how hard he fought himself, he never stood a chance against her determination to have him. Cate was very different from all the other heroines in the previous books of this series. It was truly refreshing to read about her character, and her fighting skills.

All the historical facts are AMAZING! The amount of research Monica puts into her books is really something else. I Love the Author's Notes as much as I love the story.

This book surpassed my exceptions, and left me thoroughly satisfied.

And now the wait...

Can I get Striker now???! Lol, I'll try to be patient.

The English destroyed her village, raped and killed her mother and then threw her down a well to starve to death. Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor found her, pulled her out of the well and since she had no more family, he sent her to live with his mother. Caitrina was 15 years old then. She is no longer 15 but 20 years old now and she's ready for Gregor to finally notice her as a woman and not a child.

Monica McCarty writes a magnificent Highlander! The Highland Guard is a brilliant series! When the Phantom's are good, they are REALLY good but when they are bad, sometimes their transgressions are unforgivable. Let me just say that Gregor "Arrow" MacGregor deserved everything he suffered and more for what he put her through. The name of this book might be The Arrow but it is Caitrina that shines through. Everything she does she leads with her heart. Though she is trained to protect herself physically, it is her heart that needs protecting. Wonderful character! I can't wait to read more of this amazing series.

Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Arrow demonstrates that a great series can continue to be intriguing and interesting. This historical story is dramatic and enjoyable.

Monica McCarty develops hers characters well and deep. When they are known for the superficial such as physical looks she reveals to the reader how much more there is to the character. Gregor is such a character. He is tough in battle, known for his good looks but also vulnerable. He hides behind his prowess to avoid truly loving someone worthy. Ms. McCarthy works her magic of story so that he finally comes around.

Even though Cate is a child of adversity, she has maintained her feistiness and her love of life. She is able to see the plight of others then to reach out to find ways to help them, too. I like her from the very beginning.

The story flows with the characters continuing to surprise me. Never a dull moment. The surprises may not always be in a good way but eventually all is well. Just the way I like the stories I read to do in the end.

Copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.

I have been anticipating this book since the moment I knew of its existence, and I was truly happy to receive and read it. Between The Raider (which was the first book I actually read of Ms. McCarty) and this one, I have found an author that I really enjoy reading. The way she writes makes her books come to life, if only in your imagination.

This story is about a heroine with a purpose and that is convince the one man she has ever loved that he can love only her. I don't care what others may say about this book, I felt it hit close to home in this aspect. Being determined is something I found fascinating about Cate, because she believed her love could conquer all, something many of us have hope for in our own lives.

I loved the interaction of the two man characters, the spark that was lit, and the questions of how much love could overcome some serious problems.

I wish their were more characters from the Highland Guard that could be written, the men are all thrilling to read about, as are the women who love them.

Bravo, Ms. McCarty for your research into a time when heroes were born and legends were made!

Gregor MacGregor is with Eoin MacLean, Ewan Lamont, and Tor "Chief" MacLeod, the leader of the King's secret band of elite soldiers known as the Highland Guard. They come upon the burnt out village. All women and children had been brutally killed. Gregor hears Cate's calls from the well and rescues her. She is starved and dehydrated. When Cate sees Gregor she thinks she's dead and seeing an angel. The Earl of Hereford's men had done this. Her mother was dead and Cate had no one... but she had her angel. She never wanted him to let her go. Gregor felt such a need to protect her, which left him confused because he's never felt this way about anyone. For her, he felt it through every bone in his body. Cate proceeds to tell him her father is dead although he really abandoned them when she was 5. He agrees to take her to his mother to stay with her. Over time, he comes to learn she's a tomboy....and a fighter for sure! She's always into something and it drives him batty. I loved this novel so much, I think this is the best. She is so clever to bring in Robert the Bruce as a part of this book. This book moves very smoothly and it is another that u cannot put down. The love story between Arrow and Cate is absolutely breathtaking. U wiill Feel every emotion, every move and the love that comes out so boldly. The story has humor, drama and so much comradarie. I feel that her way of portraying these men and women is so fantastic. I will reread it many times. Please don't miss this one. It is her greatest effort and she is a WINNER.