"Exciting intrigue on the border"

In 1375 Borderlands, the Scottish Kirallen Clan captures English neighbor Lord Haddon Darnley when he tries to pilfer some of their cattle. Haddon's father negotiates for the release of his son. However, the English border lord laughs at the last Scottish requirement that Lord Kirallen's son Jemmy marry the daughter of Lord Darnley so after several generations of feuding peace will finally arrive.

Though agreeing to all the Scottish terms, Lord Darnley refuses to send his legitimate daughter Maude so he dispatches his other female child, Alyson, born on the wrong side of the sheets. He uses her brother as a prisoner-pawn to insure that Alyson adheres to his demands of masquerading as Maude and spying on his enemies. As Alyson and Jemmy fall in love, she worries about the future once her beloved learns the truth of her deception.

Though a typical borders romance, THE BORDER BRIDE will delight historical romance readers. The story line furnishes the audience with a feel for the intrigue of the fourteenth century through a strong cast especially the heroine. Energetic Elizabeth English demonstrates to her her audience that if her debut is any indication, she has quite a long career ahead of her.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted October 22, 2001

Summary

It's 1375 and the Darnley and Kirallen clans have been feuding for generations. After much bloodshed on both sides, a bargain is struck--Jemmy Kirallen will marry Maude Darnley in a peacemaking union. Unbeknownst to the Kirallen clan, Laird Darnely sends his illegitimate daughter, Alyson, in Maude's stead. Jemmy is drawn to Alyson's sweet and gentle side, and the two confess their love, but what will become of their budding romance when Alyson's deception is uncovered?