Step into the rugged, romantic world of the Highland Guard series, where kilts, courage, and clandestine missions collide in 14th-century Scotland! Penned by Monica McCarty, this historical romance saga blends pulse-pounding action with sizzling love stories, following an elite band of warriors handpicked by Robert the Bruce to liberate Scotland from English rule. If you crave tales of bravery, betrayal, and burning passion, this series is your next obsession.
How Highland Guard Began
Monica McCarty, a former lawyer turned bestselling author, crafted the Highland Guard series from her love for Scottish history and modern special ops. Inspired by the gritty heroism of Navy SEALs and the legendary valor of Highland warriors, she imagined a covert team of medieval 'black ops' fighters. Launched in 2010 with The Chief, the series spans 12 novels and 2 novellas, weaving historical accuracy with fictional flair against the backdrop of Scotland’s fight for independence.
The Heart of Highland Guard
The series kicks off with The Chief, where Tor MacLeod, a stoic warlord, leads the Guard but grapples with his unexpected marriage to spirited Christina Fraser. In The Ranger, Arthur Campbell’s quest for revenge clashes with his attraction to Anna MacDougall, his enemy’s daughter. The Viper follows Lachlan MacRuairi, a ruthless warrior softened by love, while The Arrow showcases Gregor MacGregor’s redemption through his bond with fierce Cate. Each novel pairs a unique warrior with a bold heroine, blending espionage, warfare, and romance.
Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and forbidden love pulse through the series, set in a vividly detailed 14th-century Scotland. McCarty’s style merges fast-paced action with emotional depth, grounding fictional tales in real events like Robert the Bruce’s guerrilla tactics. Fans praise her authentic portrayal of medieval society, where knights spoke French, not just Gaelic, challenging romanticized Highlander stereotypes.
Why Highland Guard Resonates
The Highland Guard series has carved a niche in historical romance, earning acclaim for its meticulous research and steamy, character-driven plots. Readers on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about its immersive storytelling, with many calling it a masterclass in blending fact and fiction. Its focus on elite warriors and strong heroines appeals to fans of both romance and historical epics, ensuring its lasting allure.
- About Highland Guard
- Publication: 2010–2016
- Books: 12 novels, 2 novellas
- Awards: RITA Finalist for Historical Romance (The Recruit)
Ready to swing a claymore into Scotland’s past? Grab The Chief and dive into the Highland Guard’s world of valor and romance!