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Beyond the Thistles (The Highlands Series Book 1) Kindle Edition

by Samantha Young (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5,892 ratings
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AN AMAZON TOP 100 BESTSELLER

He's a brooding bodyguard. She's a single mom on the run. And in a town this small, they can't hide from their fierce attraction...

It’s been a long time since Walker Ironside left behind Scotland and the memories that haunt him. Yet after years of traveling the world as a bodyguard, Walker misses his homeland enough to return. To a village in the Scottish Highlands that plays host to an exclusive members-only club, Ardnoch Estate. If not happy, Walker is content working with the elite security at the club and maintaining his bachelor lifestyle. What he doesn’t need is distraction in the form of the enticing but too-young newcomer, single mother Sloane Harrow.


Sloane never imagined she’d get pregnant at sixteen. Or that a decade later she’d escape from California with her daughter, Callie, to start over in the Scottish Highlands. Hidden and safe from Callie’s dangerous father, Sloane is satisfied with their new lives. Her daughter is happy. Sloane has a stable job, a quaint cottage, a passion for baking that might just be turning into a business, and a huge crush on brooding security guard Walker Ironside. Unfortunately, the grumpy Scot seems immune to Sloane’s charm, but she can’t help but try to seduce him with cupcakes and baked treats whenever the opportunity arises.

However, when someone arrives in Ardnoch intent on destroying Sloane’s life, Walker is the first to step forward to protect her and Callie. Even if it means giving into temptation and awakening his own demons. Because in doing so, Walker faces failing not only to shield Sloane from her past, but to safeguard her against his own.
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  1. Book 1 of 6
    The Highlands Series
  2. Print length
    384 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Sticky notes
    On Kindle Scribe
  5. Publication date
    May 2, 2023
  6. File size
    3288 KB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
  10. See all details
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From the Publisher

man holding woman with text he wants to protect her from her past on it
man holding woman in his arms with text but can he save her from his own? written over it.
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Customer Reviews
4.3 out of 5 stars
5,892
4.3 out of 5 stars
5,892
4.3 out of 5 stars
5,892
Price $14.47 $0.00 $14.99
Discover Beyond the Thistles Formatted Paperback Narrated by Shane East & Stella Hunter Alternative Cover Edition
COVER OF BEYOND THE THISTLES BY SAMANTHA YOUNG cover for Among the Heather by Samantha Young cover for through the glen by samantha young cover for skies over caledonia placeholder cover for Northern Twilight by Samantha Young placeholder for Forever the Highlands
Beyond the Thistles Among the Heather Through the Glen Skies Over Caledonia Northern Twilight Forever the Highlands
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Customer Reviews
4.3 out of 5 stars
5,892
4.4 out of 5 stars
2,290
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,969
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Read the Series Grumpy/Sunshine Enemies-to-Lovers Opposites Attract Marriage of Convenience Second Chance Brother's Best Friend

Editorial Reviews

Review


Praise for Samantha's other titles

"Samantha Young weaves together gorgeous prose, beautifully unique characters, and a love story that won't leave you long after you've finished. One of my favorite books I've read this year and a must-read for romance fans!"—Catherine Cowles, USA Today Bestselling author of the Lost & Found Series.

"Utterly delicious and addictive."—New York Times bestselling author Kristen Callihan

"Young pens a wonderful romance with lovable, multi-faceted characters who want what everyone wants — someone to love them, no matter what."—RT Book Reviews

"A really sexy book...Highly recommend this one."—USAToday.com

"Humor, heartbreak, drama, and passion."—The Reading Cafe

"Young writes stories that stay with you long after you flip that last page."—Under the Covers

"Charismatic characters, witty dialogue, blazing-hot sex scenes, and real-life issues make this book an easy one to devour."—Fresh Fiction

"The one thing you can count on from Ms. Young is some of the best, steamy, sexual chemistry."—Fiction Vixen

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B9142QFW
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Amazon Digital Services (May 2, 2023)
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ May 2, 2023
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 3288 KB
  • Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 384 pages
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5,892 ratings

About the author

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Samantha Young

Samantha Young

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Samantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 50 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.

Sign up to Sam's newsletter for book updates, exclusive giveaways and freebies - https://authorsamanthayoung.com/subscribe-to-sams-newsletter/

Find Sam online at www.authorsamanthayoung.com, and on IG, TikTok and FB @authorsamanthayoung

Customer reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
4.3 out of 5
5,892 global ratings
Single mom, romantic suspense, in the Scottish Highlands!!
4 Stars
Single mom, romantic suspense, in the Scottish Highlands!!
✨ 𝗔𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗼𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 ✨𝗕𝗲𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝘆 𝗦𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗮 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗴Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 romantic suspense🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 single mom🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 age gap🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 grumpy/sunshine🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 forced proximity🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 tragic pasts🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 alpha hero/heroine in danger🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 open door romance🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 dual POVSloane, a single mom who has retreated to living in the Scottish Highlands after a traumatic experience with her ex. Sloane ends up working as a housekeeper at the Ardnoch Estate that is open to members only. This is where Sloane meets Walker who also works for the estate as elite security. Sloane has a massive crush on Walker but he remains closed off to commitment. That’s when Sloane suggests they become friends with benefits. This works out well till Sloane’s past comes back to haunt her. Walker doesn’t hesitate to step up and protect Sloane and becomes her bodyguard. Walker also makes sure that Callie, Sloane’s daughter, is also protected. Unfortunately, the person from Sloane’s past won’t stop at anything to get back at Sloane.I listened to the audiobook of this one and if you love Scottish accents, this is for you. I was SWOONING over Shane East’s accent. His voice was perfect for the character of Walker. Walker is so broody, protective, but also closed off. Sloane is such an independent mother and would do anything in the world for her daughter Callie, but she is also a single mom who just wants to be loved, seen, and validated. I loved their characters and was rooting for them the whole time, despite their troubled pasts. I cannot wait to read the other books in the series!
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Top reviews from the United States

BB2007BG
5.0 out of 5 stars Suspense, Protectiveness, Strong and Passion
Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2024
Verified Purchase
This is the first book I’ve read from this Author. I loved the whole story - both Walker & Sloane’s past heartaches made them who they are. It helps you understand why it was difficult for Walker to even want to have a relationship and the bravery of Sloane that kept her going, making sure she and her daughter were safe. I loved that Sloane was fierce and didn’t back down, she could save herself & her daughter but she could also rely on Walker. I loved his relationship with Sloane’s daughter - it was very tender and protective. Walker and Sloane’s connection was palpable & felt. Their sexual encounters were extremely hot, intense and very satisfying. Outstanding book - will be reading more of her books.
2 people found this helpful
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Meg (what.is.life.without.dragons)
4.0 out of 5 stars enjoyable highland contemporary romance
Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2024
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3.5 rating

The story was a bit predictable, but beautifully written so I didn’t mind. I thought the character development was well done but I did struggle to keep interest in the story because the pacing was a tad slow. I wish there was more action and discord with her ex - tmi think that would have help the pacing.

All your romance favorite tropes are found in this book:
- friends to lovers
- second chance love
- single mom
- rags to riches
- hot bodyguard/ protector

All in all - above average and I plan to read the next one in the series.
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JustMeBobbie
5.0 out of 5 stars Where can I find my own Walker Ironside?
Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2024
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Wow, just wow! The ups and downs this couple went through had me in the edge of my seat. I felt anger, sympathy, passion and so much love. The story was perfect and the main characters made it come to life!
One person found this helpful
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Chelsea Winters
3.0 out of 5 stars Pretty good
Reviewed in the United States on January 19, 2024
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This story was pretty good, however Sloane kind of drove me nuts. She needed to have a little more pride when it came to constantly trying to get Walker even when he showed no reciprocation.

The last 20% of the book were the best to me!
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Kindle Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars the protector and the lady
Reviewed in the United States on April 16, 2024
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Samantha Young does a beautiful job weaving a story that hold my attention and keeps me guessing. Walker and Sloan and of course Callie may be my favorite characters in this series. After a stint in an elite military unit Walker becomes a bodyguard to the rich and famous in L A. He became the personal guard to Brodan Adair and went with Brodan to his home in the Scottish Highlands when he left the L.a. life. He is now a part of the security team at Arndnock Castle. Walker is a complex character. He has many layers and he shows none of them unless he has to go into action.

Sloan is in Scotland to escape her ex, the father of Callie.She works hard and makes baked good to sell when she isn’t at work. She is strong and proud. And when needed she shows just how she can take care of herself. Walker only does one night stands and no matter how much he is attracted to Sloan he knows she deserves better than that. When she is in danger he will whatever it takes to see her and Callie are safe. As the story progresses we get a look into Walker’s life and what made him the man he is today and why he became a protector. There was intrigue and some surprises that I loved. I recommend this and in fact the whole series.
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Sutton Brier
4.0 out of 5 stars Standing tall
Reviewed in the United States on March 1, 2024
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-contemporary romance
-grumpy sunshine
-suspense
-single mom

This was my first book by Samantha Young, and I enjoyed it. It was cute and funny but also at times on the edge of your seat. I loved that the FMC Sloane was a single mom who was trying to overcome her past but did not lose who she was and use the single mom as an excuse. She showed that single moms can be badass. I also loved this book, which shows it takes a village to raise a kid.
The MMC is a cinnamon roll who is fighting his own issues about his past. He also has a hard time admitting his feelings and craves control in all areas of his life. I loved that Sloane doesn't take his mess and gives back what he at times puts out.
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M.S.
5.0 out of 5 stars single mom on the run
Reviewed in the United States on March 13, 2024
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We first meet our two MCs in the last book of the Adair series. I highly recommend that series before starting this one, it’s not technically necessary but I promise you that series is amazing and you’ll have backstories for side characters as well as a few details for this couple.
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Anywho, Walker Ironside (how badass is that name?) is Brodan Adair’s bodyguard but now that Brodan has rekindled his relationship with the lovely Monroe and left his acting career; Walker has decide to put down some Scottish roots as well. Sloane is a single mom on the run and although no one quite knows her backstory, that doesn’t stop her from making friends with her daughter’s new teacher Monroe. It’s plain to see that her life hasn’t been easy but you’d never guess that from how Sloane acts towards others. She’s a private person who’s always looking over her shoulder, but she’s still outgoing and one hell of a baker, which is how she snags Walker’s attention.
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Walker is the strong silent type who’s emotionally closed off with a heavy past. He’s not oblivious to Sloane and her crush on him but he doesn’t mix friendship with his casual hook ups. When the sexual tension reaches maximum capacity Walker has decisions to make, does he take the lovely Sloane up on her offer of fwb or does he continue to let the tension rise?.. I’ll give you a hint.. they are dynamite in bed together.. everything is going smoothly until Sloane starts getting messages from her past and a stalker shows up, she’s forced to take Walker’s help to protect herself and her daughter.
.
This story was another beautiful journey of finding the one whom you can let your guard down and bare your soul to. I absolutely love Samantha’s writing and the ‘realness’ of her characters, if you haven’t given her writing a try you definitely should!
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kat
4.0 out of 5 stars sweet and spicy
Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2024
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It’s like an R rated Hallmark Movie.
Very cute and nicely spicy.
Also, very well written!
I’d recommend it to people starting to get into smut.
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Top reviews from other countries

Just a Reader
5.0 out of 5 stars What a intense book! ✨
Reviewed in Brazil on June 12, 2023
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I couldn’t put this book down til the end. The story catches you from the prologue.
The bodyguard trope is a must! ✨
Sloane is such a fierce woman. She had Callie very young but she fought for her since the very first second.
Oh Walker’s so perfect! He’s stern but this matches his protective personality. His bossy and possessive demeanor in life repeats itself in bed and this yielded delicious moments 🥵
Their story had so many ups and downs, a rich plot with so much to tell, the action and suspense hooked me for good, and their relationship had the development it deserved.
I’m totally in love for this small-town-in-Scotland universe. ✨
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Kaitlyn Webb
5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing romance and suspense!!!
Reviewed in Canada on May 2, 2023
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Beyond The Thistles is a book I wish I could give more than 5 stars to!!! I loved Sloane and Walker so so much!!! Their incredible story is an age gap romance with bodyguard vibes. This book honestly made me feel every emotion and I’m in awe of how beautiful it is.
Sloane and Walker are amazing together! I love their relationship and how it develops. They have so many sweet, and spicy, moments, I adored everything. Both Walker and Sloane both have traumatic pasts so there are some heartbreaking moments but it’s amazing how they are there for each other.
Sloane is such a sweetheart and compassionate. She’s also a great mom and is so hardworking. I love how determined she is to give her daughter, Callie, a good life. Then there’s Walker, who I also love! He’s not exactly grumpy but he’s definitely quiet. He also has such a kind heart, is super protective, and is a badass. His relationship with Callie is so adorable, I love it!!
I really enjoyed being back in the Highlands and seeing some characters from the Adair Family series. Plus a big part of the plot is suspenseful that’s intense and, even though what happens is scary and awful, it’s definitely added to my enjoyment.
This book is truly amazing and I already know I’ll love the whole series!
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Aashna Agrawal
5.0 out of 5 stars Beyond The Thistles ❤️
Reviewed in India on April 28, 2024
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I absolutely adored "Beyond the Thistles"! The Scottish Highlands setting truly set the perfect tone for the story. With a single mom heroine, a gruff and brooding bodyguard, and a touch of romantic suspense, it had all the elements to keep me hooked!

Sloane, a single mom to her daughter Callie, finds herself entangled in a dangerous situation with the father of her child at the story's outset. Fleeing the U.S., she seeks refuge in the serene landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, taking up a job as a housekeeper at Ardnoch Estate, a members-only club run by the Adair family, whom we encounter in another series by the author. Enter Walker, the grumpy and enigmatic bodyguard employed by the Adairs, whose paths frequently cross with Sloane's.

From the get-go, I was captivated by the narrative and setting. Sloane's passion for baking added a charming touch to her character, especially as she navigated Scottish life alongside her daughter. Walker, haunted by his past and grappling with inner demons, undergoes a journey of vulnerability, even seeking therapy. As their relationship develops into a friends-with-benefits arrangement, Walker's protective instincts towards Sloane and Callie shine through. Despite his own struggles, he consistently goes above and beyond for them, whether it's helping Callie with karate classes or delivering Sloane's baked goods. Naturally, as the suspense builds, Walker's protective instincts intensify, leading to gripping moments that kept me on edge.

Overall, I found "Beyond the Thistles" immensely enjoyable, and I'm eagerly anticipating the release of the second book. Additionally, the prospect of revisiting the Adair series for further crossover intrigue has me itching to dive back into the author's world!
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Amazon Kunde
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book!
Reviewed in Germany on April 7, 2024
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Wow Samantha Young never dissapoints in her writing skills. Great Story and I love the sunshine/grumpy theme and the hot tension.
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Adeline Dethier
5.0 out of 5 stars WOW !
Reviewed in Belgium on August 5, 2023
Verified Purchase
Samantha Young is one of my favourite authors. This book was really amazing ! I love everything about it. I'm so glad to have a spinoff of the Adair Family because I really love this series ! I wasn't ready to say goodbye to her beautiful and amazing characters. I need more books about them (especially Thane and Reagan).
Samantha Young has a gift for writing !

Sloane and Walker are explosive ! I love them since we met them in the last book. Walker's past breaks my heart and I wanted him to be happy with Sloane and Callie.
Poor Sloane, she deserves so much better than what happened to her before.
Walker is really great with Callie and he truly loves her and Sloane.

Everything in this book was perfect ! To see the Adair again was my favourite thing, because like I said before I really love them !
The suspens was everything I wanted for this book and even more !
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