**** ½
In 1693 Scotland, the sacred life-style of honor above all else is in jeopardy due to a monstrous treachery. MacIaian MacDonald hosted and feted Robert Campbell, but that same night, Robert's men attacked and killed most of the MacDonald clan. The small number who survived owed their very existence to the few Campbell men who still held honor as a lofty trait. Niall MacDonald has become a chieftain due to the nefarious incident and like the other survivors of his clan seeks revenge. He is too smart to openly defy the powerful Campbells, so he and his men abduct Meg and Elizabeth Campbell to hold as hostages.
Niall thinks Meg is a cruel individual who laughed at the Glencoe slaughter. Though Meg knows that her Uncle committed Highland heresy with his act of atrocity, she feels strongly that Niall has no right to hold her or her sister hostage. In spite of a bloody family feud that threatens to engulf them because they, by their births, are on separate sides, still fall in love with each other. However, in seventeenth century Scotland, love is an expensive emotion that cannot survive the feuding.
Fans of Scottish Highland historical romance must read Glencoe-A Romance of Scotland because the novel is quite good. The lead protagonists are charmers, who will quickly gain audience empathy. Though the story line, which centers on star-crossed lovers dealing with different clan loyalties has been often times written, few authors match the story telling skill of Muireall Donald who makes readers believe they are there. After perusing this tale, historical romance readers will want more works from Ms. Donald, a rising star.
Glencoe, A Romance of Scotland is the timeless tale of two people bound by loyalty and tradition to their opposing clans. It is the story of their daily fight for survival against powerful intrigues in a political climate that threatens to annihilate the scattered clan's way of life.
Caught in the midst of political upheaval, Niall MacDonald is duty bound to seek revenge for the massacre Robert Campbell inflicted upon the people of Glencoe. Niall kidnaps Meg Campbell and her sister, Elizabeth, intending to ransom them for enough money to see his exiled clan through the harsh highland winter. But the strength of Meg presents a challenge for the man hardened by the decimation of his clan.
Author Muireall Donald paints a vivid picture of two lovers torn by duty and suspicion, and she allows us an intimate glimpse into the life and the daily struggle of the Scottish Highlanders of the seventeenth century.
Her characters Niall and Meg must face the reality of their volatile situation, while fighting the attraction between them. Will the power of their honor and the strength of their growing love be enough to sustain them through hatred, greed and the political machinations that could destroy them?
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