Kenneth "Sutherland" of Moray is tough and resilient, and he's a man who knows what he wants. And his greatest desire is to become part of the Highland Guard. Knowing that he'd be a strong addition to the team, he'll stop at nothing and won't let anything get in the way of his objective...until his meets Mary of Mar. Beautiful and devoted, Mary is on a mission of her own- she's desperately searching for her twin sister who disappeared a number of years ago at the outset of the war. Like Kenneth, she too has little time or patience for seduction and passion, and yet the feelings between them still ignite with desire and longing. Little do Kenneth and Mary know that by joining forces, they might just be able to achieve even more than they'd ever expected. RITA Finalist for Historical Romance Scotland's King Robert the Bruce is retaking his kingdom from the invading English. To win, he'll need all the grit and courage of his elite band of warriors, the Highland Guard, men who fight without fear and love without limits. Fiery, aggressive, and bold, Kenneth Sutherland is a true champion-skilled with any weapon and driven to win. Now Kenneth is ready for his greatest challenge- joining Robert the Bruce's secret army to fight among the elite. Kenneth's best chance to attain that honor is by winning the Highland Games. Focused and prepared for victory, he is caught off guard by a lovely wisp of a woman-and a stolen moment of wicked seduction. Her innocent arousal and her shameless hunger fire his blood. He will win his place in the guard-and in Mary of Mar's bed. The ruggedly handsome hero-in-the-making stirs a heart that should know better. Mary vows that her surrender will be sport only-no promises, no heartbreak, just one night of incredible passion. Nothing, she swears, will persuade her to give up her hard-wrought independence and put her fate in the hands of another powerful man. But with every gentle touch and heart-pounding kiss, Kenneth makes her want more. Now Mary wants his heart. But is this determined champion willing to surrender everything for love?