Veena’s review of Forbidden Alliance (Forbidden Series, Book 4) by Diane Cosby
Historical Romance published by Lyrical Press 06 Aug 2019
Elspet’s first meeting with Sir Cailin is under less than stellar circumstances; however, he quickly turns the tables on her, only to find that she is the means to him fulfilling his mission. With their goals aligned, the two work together to rescue her brother held captive by the Earl of Dalkin, even as Cailin finds a way to take the earl down for his own reasons. With two strong characters, this is a nice addition to the series.
Cailin is the rightful heir to the earldom. When his parents were killed, his uncle seized the earldom and sent Cailin off to sea to be killed. Fortunately, Cailin was rescued by the Knights Templar, and is now on a mission to restore the earldom to his rule and hold this part of Scotland for his liege, Sir Robert Bruce. Elspet’s father is the person who is the king’s contact and who is supposed to help Cailin. Now with her father betrayed and killed, it’s fortunate that Elspet has the means to connect Cailin to other people who can support his quest.
There are some nice surprise along the way, some good and some bad. As it turns out, Elspet’s brother is not quite the loving sibling, but there are others in the earl’s garrison who are there for them. Against a backdrop of violence and battle, the two fall in love. Elspet is convinced that their love has no future, given Cailin’s blue blood versus her more common blood. Clearly Cailin will have to educate her on that front.
I love how these Knights Templar turned noblemen struggle with accepting love. I can’t wait to see where this series will take us next.
Grade: B
Summary:
Bound by revenge, a woman turned outlaw and a knight sworn to reclaim his birthright band together to vanquish an enemy of Scotland …
After her family is slain and her home seized, Elspet McReynolds flees into the forests surrounding Tiran Castle, where she resorts to thievery to survive and save her sole remaining kin. There she finds an unexpected protector and ally in Sir Cailin MacHugh, rightful heir to the earldom of Dalkirk–a noble rumored to have perished at sea . . .
Sir Cailin owes his life to the Brotherhood for saving him from a murderous plot. But what is the Knight Templar to do about the fearless, sword-wielding beauty who has enlisted his aid–and awakened his desire? In the face of devastating betrayals and traitorous enemies closing in, can Cailin and Elspet dare claim a love that makes no promises–for a future they may not live to see?
