cover image The Chieftain

The Chieftain

Margaret Mallory. Grand Central/Forever, $7.99 mass market (448p) ISBN 978-0-446-58311-4

Mallory’s fun and engaging fourth Return of the Highlanders 1516 romance (after The Warrior) pairs competent healer Ilysa with chieftain Connor MacDonald. For as long as she can remember, Ilysa, a young widow, has yearned for Connor underneath her shapeless garb and covered hair. Connor, however, hopes that marrying a high-ranking woman from another clan will improve his clan’s chances for survival, and makes that his priority, especially in wake of the devastation caused by his scheming uncle. As one born with the Sight, Ilysa believes it is her duty to keep Connor safe, especially as he doesn’t realize the danger he’s in. When Ilysa risks everything for Connor’s safety and unveils her beauty, he begins to see who she really is. Readers will appreciate the well-developed romance, historic detail, and red-hot passion as they root for two strong protagonists who bravely face danger at every turn. (Feb.)