Reviewing THE REIVER'S CUB by Laura Strickland

 

Blurb:

Ten years ago, Bess Mowatt promised to guard her newborn cousin from his father, Aleck Maxwell. Called the Reiver Wolf, Maxwell is the scourge of the Scottish marches, and no fit guardian for a child. But when the keep where Bess and the boy live suddenly comes under Maxwell's protection, she has nowhere to hide.
Aleck doesn't quite believe the tale he was told, that his son died at birth. His head tells him one thing, and his heart another. While protecting the keep from marauders, he makes a connection with Bess's young charge. But Bess stands in the way, a woman who is also a warrior, a protector who needs his protection. Can he persuade this fiery woman to accept his help? Will a lie told long ago stand in the way of their love?

My Review:

This is the kind of excellent writing I’ve come to expect from this author. Her historical romances are action-packed and amazing.

My favorite thing about this story is the overwhelming integrity of the lead characters.

On one hand, you have Bess. She has to shut herself off from her attraction to Aleck because of a solemn promise she’s made to her close friend for the safety of a child. She keeps that promise even though she finds it hard to believe her friend's story after spending time with the man.

On the other hand, Aleck suppresses his attraction to Bess because he’s been burned by a woman and lost all trust. Also, he still grieves for the son he lost. However, the desire for a home and family burns deep inside him.

But of course, my favorite character in the story is Dexter. At ten-years-old his only concern is learning to be a warrior and protector. In his opinion, there’s no one better to teach him than his new mentor, Aleck.

Laura Strickland has created a twisted tale that she untangles and lays out for her readers to soak in and swoon over. This is the type of story you’ll want to read again and again.

 

Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/Reivers-Cub-Laura-Strickland-ebook/dp/B08G8DFMLS