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| Edinburgh - late 1600s and 1707 Scotland is once again in turmoil with the Union with England now signed and in effect. The Scottish Parliament is dissolved, the different Protestant religions are at odds, and rumors are flying that the Stewarts in France are planning another attempt to retake the crown from the present British king. Invited by his former commanding officer, Lieutenant Turnbull, to visit him in Edinburgh, Sergeant Adam Williamson, arrives to find Turnbull away. Although Turnbull's wife has never met him, she graciously invites him to stay until her husband returns. One day, they are visited by Lord Grange, a Lord of the Justiciary, who had hoped to enlist Turnbull in a legal matter. After Mrs. Turnbull introduces Adam, she insists that he would be qualified to assist instead. The legal matter consists of a widow who has made a claim to collect the wages owed her late husband in the failed, and fatal, Darien expedition. Mr. Gilroy, the clerk sent to assist Adam with the issue, delivers the woman, and all of the documentation regarding the matter. Adam is immediately stunned by the woman, her beauty, as well as her calm insistence that she did, indeed, marry James Graeme before he set sail. The marriage certificate clearly states that she, Lilias Aitcheson, did wed James Graeme, and there were two witnesses, sadly both since deceased. It's obvious that Mrs. Graeme is distressed, as well as concerned at the time it will take to decide this issue. And Adam is wondering why this case, in particular, is so important that Lord Grange brought it up? Adam's assignment weighs heavy on him as he tries to ferret out the various people who might be able to help. Determined to find answers, he is also emotionally attracted to the widow, something he tries to tamp down. There is more to her story, and he slowly begins to unravel her history, and what has led up to the present situation. But Adam also begins to realize that there is danger lurking as his investigations heats up. The political climate is volatile, and it's difficult to know whom to trust. THE VANISHED DAYS is a prequel to THE WINTER SEA and re-introduces readers to the Graeme and Moray families. Adam tells his part of the story in his own words, and we learn of Lily's past, how she came to Edinburgh, and the people in her background who play a role in her future. It's a mystery, a well-researched and presented historical tale, and a love story brought to life by the incredible writing of Susanna Kearsley. Hang on to your hats as you cruise to the stunning conclusion. It's not necessary to have read THE WINTER SEA first, but I do recommend it. Jani Brooks |
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THE VANISHED DAYS - Susanna Kearsley