The steamy but simplistic third romance in Le Veque-s Scots and Swords series (after Highland Defender) again immerses readers in life at the Ludus Caledonia, 1400s Scotland-s premiere fight club. Magnus Stewart is the peacock of the Ludus Caledonia and he-s come by his arrogance honestly. The bastard son of a duke, he was held hostage in deplorable conditions throughout his childhood by Ambrose, Duke of Ayr, an adversary of his father-s. Freed seven years ago, Magnus now fills his life with wine, women, and the winnings from his fights-until a face from his past shakes him to his foundation. Diantha de Mora, the daughter of a warlord from Navarre, was also held hostage by Ayr, who-s now trying to marry her off to his son. She escapes and comes to Magnus for protection. He-s willing to pay her way home to Navarre, but she wants to earn her own fare and offers to tend to Magnus-s home to raise the funds. The characters and setting are beautifully shaded-especially the feeling of brotherhood among the members of the Ludus Caledonia-but the plot is disappointingly straightforward. Readers will long for more narrative complexity, but the sweet, spicy romance and familiar faces will please series fans. Agent: Sarah Younger, Nancy Yost Literary. (July)