Review of Highlander Unmasked (MacLeods of Skye Trilogy #2)

Highlander Unmasked (MacLeods of Skye Trilogy,#2)
by Monica McCarty

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3 of 5 Stars

Description:
Alex MacLeod’s virile physique, fearsome reputation, and renowned fighting skills have helped him master to perfection the role of a hardened mercenary. On a secret mission to protect his clan, he must keep his true purpose well hidden. But his dangerous endeavor is threatened by a beautiful woman he saves from outlaws, never dreaming she will appear at court and put his plans in jeopardy.
Meg Mackinnon needs a strong husband by her side to defend her clan’s holdings, but her search has been hampered by burning fantasies of the midnight rescuer whose smoldering blue eyes and raw sensuality left her breathless. Alex pretends to be a mercenary with no loyalties, yet he is clearly much more. As Meg challenges Alex to reveal all his secrets, the stakes grow perilously high, especially for the bold woman who dares to unmask a highlander.

Review: 

Highlander Unmasked is the second installment in the MacLeods of Skye Trilogy.

The hero, Alex, has come to the king's court in the hopes of discovering his enemy's plans to invade and "colonize" his family and ally's island, Skye. He has lived as an outlaw for the past few years and is trying to keep that a secret, but there is one person at court that could out him.
Meg Mackinnon and her mother were rescued by a band of outlaws - one of which had striking features and she knew he would never forget him. Meg has come to court searching for an honorable, strong man that can help her and her clan. She hasn't had much luck, but then Alex arrives and she instantly is interested him. Even though he has shaved and cleaned up, she recognizes him as one of the outlaws that saved her.
I gave this book 3 of 5 stars for a couple of reasons.
The hero and heroine were cute together, but there were times when I did not feel their relationship was...natural, for lack of a better word. There were times when the character's personalities did not seem to match/compliment each other. Also, I had really enjoyed Alex Mac Leods's character in the first book. He was funny and fun loving, he was a joker, but his character changed - completely! I was seriously disappointed. Now, I know tortured heroes are "in" and I LOVE heroes that have dark pasts, but it is not necessary. I really would have enjoyed this book so much more if Alex was the same man he was in the first book and not some too serious warrior.
However, the book as whole was good and I'm looking forward to the third.