Heart of Iron by Rebecca Ruger

Scotland at the beginning of the 14th century is not a peaceful place. Ross Kildare and his depleted army are headed home after months away, fighting the English, gaining no ground. In their travels, they come upon a scene of unspeakable horror, which pierces the hearts of even these hardened and battle-weary warriors.

The lone survivor, Caitrin Lorne, is beyond grief, and Ross vows to do whatever is necessary to see her brought to safety. They move on, traveling to his home, only to discover that his castle was only days ago seized by the English, who have either killed or imprisoned the people of Westcairn and are now using the castle as their own garrison.

Ross is determined to deliver Caitrin to a better place where there is no war and bloodshed, but she begs to stay with him, the only person she trusts right now. Together with his small army, they flee into the forest and make war on the enemy at Westcairn, determined to reclaim his home. War has taken everyone and everything Ross and Caitrin have ever known. Can they find love with each other while the whole world seems to be burning down around them?