A review by laurenjodi
The Chief by Monica McCarty
5.0
The Chief
5 Stars
Following the death of William Wallace, Robert Bruce realizes that he cannot defeat the English King, Edward I, with traditional tactics and decides to establish an elite fighting force. The man chosen to train and lead these warriors, Tormod MacLeod, is dedicated to his clan and has not intention of being drawn into Scotland's war, not even to have the beautiful Christina Fraser. However, fate and trickery have different plans and Tor finds himself wed to a woman who weakens his resolve to never love again.
Compelling premise and brilliant execution.
The historical research is detailed and fascinating and the medieval setting realistic and believable. This time period is a favorite of mine, however, readers uninterested in Scottish history and politics may find it difficult to get into the story.
Tor and Christina's romance is riveting. Their chemistry is intense and passionate. Tor is an exceptional leader but hides his heart behind a cool and distant facade for fear of loving and losing. He struggles against the incomprehensible feelings Christina evokes in him but finds her sweet and giving personality impossible to resist.
Christina is an endearing heroine whose spirit slowly emerges. She works hard to thaw the ice around Tor's heart (sometimes too hard perhaps but this is consistent with her romantic nature). She definitely comes into her own as the story progresses and is ultimately the perfect match for Tor.
The plot revolving around the training of an elite group of warriors during the time of Scottish Independence is very appealing and the secondary characters are intriguing - each has a unique skill but they must all come together as a unit despite their differences both political and personal.
Overall, an incredible beginning to a promising series and I cannot wait to continue reading.
5 Stars
Following the death of William Wallace, Robert Bruce realizes that he cannot defeat the English King, Edward I, with traditional tactics and decides to establish an elite fighting force. The man chosen to train and lead these warriors, Tormod MacLeod, is dedicated to his clan and has not intention of being drawn into Scotland's war, not even to have the beautiful Christina Fraser. However, fate and trickery have different plans and Tor finds himself wed to a woman who weakens his resolve to never love again.
Compelling premise and brilliant execution.
The historical research is detailed and fascinating and the medieval setting realistic and believable. This time period is a favorite of mine, however, readers uninterested in Scottish history and politics may find it difficult to get into the story.
Tor and Christina's romance is riveting. Their chemistry is intense and passionate. Tor is an exceptional leader but hides his heart behind a cool and distant facade for fear of loving and losing. He struggles against the incomprehensible feelings Christina evokes in him but finds her sweet and giving personality impossible to resist.
Christina is an endearing heroine whose spirit slowly emerges. She works hard to thaw the ice around Tor's heart (sometimes too hard perhaps but this is consistent with her romantic nature). She definitely comes into her own as the story progresses and is ultimately the perfect match for Tor.
The plot revolving around the training of an elite group of warriors during the time of Scottish Independence is very appealing and the secondary characters are intriguing - each has a unique skill but they must all come together as a unit despite their differences both political and personal.
Overall, an incredible beginning to a promising series and I cannot wait to continue reading.