A historical romance, set in Scotland, with a difference from the usual brawny heroes included in such a setting. A light and easy read, with an interesting storyline and characters. Good for a cosy rainy afternoon's reading.

I received this from Netgalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This is the first in a new series by Lily maxton. The series does look like it holds promise. I like the character growth that occurred during this book. I just wasn't over the moon in love with it.

This book was a good read. The plot and the characters were well developed. While this novel contains romance, it also involved overcoming your past and accepting the person you can or have become.
Annabel Lockhart lives at Llynmore Castle with her aunt. She was orphaned at a young age and was moved from home to home by her relatives. She felt like she never belonged anywhere until she reach Llynmore and now enjoys all the freedoms she has.
Theo Townsend finds out he is the new earl to Llynmore Castle. He and his siblings travel to the Highlands to the castle. Theo has many wounds, internally and externally from his army days. He keeps his emotions bottled up and keeps himself at times away from others.
Theo finds Annabel at the castle and wants her to leave. Annabel has no intention of leaving and tries to make Theo leave. Annabel is unable to discourage Theo from leaving. Theo planned to provide accommodations for Annabel and her aunt once he heard back from his solicitor.
Annabel is keeping a secret from Theo. She hides her sister and niece in the castle. She does not know the true reason why they came to her and are in hiding. She will do whatever she can to protect them, even if it means not telling Theo. Theo knows Annabel is keeping something from him. Eventually Annabel confides in him and he agrees to help. Theo and Annabel begin to see the other in a different light. They begin to fall in love with the other. Theo feels since he cannot get past his injuries, he cannot be with Annabel, no matter how he feels and at times has hurt her with his words because he is frustrated with himself. Will Theo be able to overcome the scars his carries and realize he should be with Annabel before she leaves forever?