A Scot's Surrender (Townsends, #3)

by Lily Maxton

[Lynn]

Robert Townsend isn't happy his sister Georgina invites Ian Cameron to stay at Llynmore Castle when their brother and wife, Lord and Lady Arden are away, He dislikes the aloof Highlander but he's also intrigued by him too. When Ian's accused of stealing personal items from their other temporary guests; English gentry seeking refuge at the castle. Robert decides he believes this man is telling the truth. So the pair works together to prove his innocence.

When a lightning bolt strikes the thatched roof of his cottage on the Arden Estate and sets fire to his home, Ian Cameron begrudgingly agrees to move into Llynmore Castle until the property can be rebuilt. Unlike his factor, he has worked hard for everything he owns unlike Robert Townsend, who is spoilt and doesn't work. Suspicions are aroused when personal items disappear and he is the main suspect. The situation forcing the two men to work alongside each other to solve the crime.

I've haven't read any Lily Maxton novels before and my first impressions are more than favourable. I love how she captures the mood of the era, where vigilance is always necessary when men engage in illicit relationships. The cautious attitudes are captured perfectly in this slow burn romance as Ian and Robert begin to discover their pre-held opinions of each other are presumptive. Gradually, they realise they both have the same burning desires as they lower their defences and open their hearts to each other.

I laughed at the imaginative way of solving the crime as the unexpected culprit is revealed. The secondary characters pushing this plot-line along blended in well. Robert and Ian's developing relationship is as much about cultivating and building a lasting friendship as exploring the physical attraction between themselves. Resulting in more tender, meaningful exchanges between the pair than sizzling passionate interactions which fit both men's limited sexual experiences perfectly.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed A Scot's Surrender. I'll definitely be reading the earlier books in The Townsend series. I loved the Scottish Highlands backdrop and the twist of mystery which was a first for me reading historical romances.

***arc generously received courtesy of Entangled Publishing via NetGalley***