Audio Review ~ Highlander Most Wanted ~ Maya Banks

Highlander Most Wanted
The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #2
Release Date: April 15, 2013
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Format: Audio
Source: Audible Credit
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
Genevieve McInnis is locked behind the fortified walls of McHugh Keep, captive of a cruel laird who takes great pleasure in ruining her for any other man. Yet when Bowen Montgomery storms the gates on a mission of clan warfare, Genevieve finds that her spirit is bent but not broken. Still, her path toward freedom remains uncertain. Unable to bear the shame of returning to a family that believes her dead or to abandon others at the keep to an imposing new laird, Genevieve opts for the peaceful life of an abbess. But Bowen's rugged sensuality stirs something deep inside her that longs to be awakened by his patient, gentle caress--something warm, wicked, and tempting.

Bowen seizes his enemy's keep, unprepared for the brooding and reclusive woman who captures his heart. He's enchanted by her fierce determination, her unusual beauty, and her quiet, unfailing strength. But wooing her will take more than a seasoned seducer's skill. For loving Genevieve, he discovers, means giving her back the freedom that was stolen from her--even if it means losing her forever.

I wouldn't have thought it possible for Banks to move me more, to wring more emotion from me, than she did with Never Seduce a Scot. I was wrong. Bowen and Genevieve's story was even more compelling, more evocative - and I found every reason I could to listen. (by the way, I finished it in 2 days!)

Bowen Montgomery has been installed as the laird of McHugh Keep, following the rescue of Eveline from her McHugh captor, until Graeme decides what to do with it. Upon his arrival, he's impressed by a young woman - not only by her courage, but also by her beauty. As he gets settled, he learns this woman, Genevieve, was responsible for helping Graeme locate Eveline. In getting to know Genevieve, he learns many things about her - some he wishes not to know.

Genevieve is not a McHugh - she was brought into their keep against her will by Iain McHugh. However, no one in the clan has shown her a bit of kindness - in fact, they not only shun her but also revile her for something not her fault. That Genevieve can stand proud against their taunts and actions - even championing the remaining members of the clan - is a testament to her character.

Bowen and Genevieve's dubious early acquaintance is prickly as Bowen makes a judgement without knowing all the facts and Genevieve feels she's deserving of his punishment for her role in Iain's actions. However, Bowen is a fair and just man - just like his brother, Graeme - and he listens to Genevieve's story and takes it all into account. Genevieve makes her true character known in all she does - taking up her bow in defense of the keep when they're attacked, fighting for people who'd just as soon turn her out. She endured much at Iain's hands yet she survived.

I adore the pluck of these Scottish heroines. Banks created the perfect complements for these Highland warriors - women with courage, ingenuity, resourcefulness - and although I love Eveline, Genevieve is my favorite at present. Banks also draws an incredible supporting cast of characters in the Montgomery siblings Teague and Rory, as well as Brody Armstrong. Rory is a true delight - living in each moment with gusto. Oh, and I mustn't forget Taliesin, the only McHugh to befriend Genevieve. She has quite the spirit.

I was once again enthralled with Kirsten Potter's narration. She is adept with giving characters their own voice, and she really does an amazing Scottish accent. I'm beginning to think that enjoyment of a narrator is a very subjective thing - and I'm enchanted with Potter.

Highlander Most Wanted is a rich story, brought to life by robust characters. I'm taken with these Highlanders and am eager to know what will happen next for them. And, of course, I won't hesitate to listen. :)