Cool and commanding warrior maid Hallidis Cameliard’s destiny is clear—a husband appointed by the king and eventual reign over Rivenloch. So when her cousins are captured by a Highland laird, she naturally takes charge, seizing the laird’s right hand man as leverage. Captive Colban an Curaidh knows his clan cannot afford war, so he counts on his honor to keep the peace, charming Hallie’s clan and melting her heart. But when he offers her more, fate snatches away her one chance for love, and only the desperate act of a champion with nothing to lose can give them the happiness they deserve.