Glen Orchy and the Highlands, Scotland, Seventeenth Century

Kate Campbell and her brother Robert grew up raised by servants in Glen Orchy after the death of their father. Their Uncle Duncan, Duke of Argyll, did not visit them often but made sure they knew all the evil tales of Clan McGregor and its murderous leader, Callum McGregor, also known as The Devil. When Glen Orchy is attacked by a rival clan, Kate finds herself leading the defense, prepared to die against overwhelming odds. Kate is rescued by a band of warriors who shelter her until the battle is over. She is enraged to learn that her savior is none other than Callum McGregor and that his intention was to take her prisoner and hold her for ransom. Kate will be used as bait to draw Duncan to them -- to murder him. How can Kate save herself as she travels ever more deeply into the Highlands and enemy territory? Can she save her brother from the coming slaughter, and will she survive it herself?

Callum McGregor is part of a clan that has suffered proscription; their lands are lost; their very name is wiped out. Many have settled on other lands, taking other names, just to survive. The cruel reality is that men can buy pardons for their crimes by bringing in a McGregor for execution. Many McGregor women suffer branding on their faces. As children, Callum and his sister, Maggie, were held prisoners by the Campbells, tortured for many years until Callum escaped with his sister, killing his captors. Callum’s hatred runs deep; he has almost lost his humanity in his endless effort to reestablish clan McGregor and gain revenge on his enemies. When Callum takes Kate prisoner, he wants to despise her, but her charm and innocence captures his heart. Kate’s care of Maggie and clan McGregor shows Callum that his clan needs his leadership, not revenge.

LAIRD OF THE MIST is really Kate’s story. It will be through her actions that the once inevitable battle to the death between the two clans becomes a new beginning. I like Kate very much; she is no delicate flower, and she sees the good in Callum. The history of the highlands is full of tragedy, but Paula Quinn has written in a little bit of happily-ever-after without straying too far from actual history. LAIRD OF THE MIST is light and uplifting, with a likable hero and heroine. Secondary characters receive their own story in A HIGHLANDER NEVER SURRENDERS, coming out in August 2008. I know I will be looking for it.

Lisa Baca