"Fans of Scottish historical romances will enjoy this one"

King Henry II asks his most loyal friend Lord Sin to marry a Scottish hostage in order to uncover the identity of the Raider causing trouble between the two countries. Sin prefers to decline because he loathes his Scottish heritage having been sold into slavery in the Holy Land by a knight. He also knows his background excludes him from ever marrying. However, he agrees to do just that only for his friend Henry.

Sin's bride Callie MacNeely agrees to a marriage in order to protect her youngest brother. Surprisingly with his reputation Callie observes kind deeds performed by her spouse as they journey to her keep in Scotland where her people treat Sin with scorn, but he handles each threat with disdain and superior fighting skills. When he rescues townsfolk from a raging bull, the locals accept him as befitting a hero. However, the unimagined has happened as he loves Callie, but has no idea how to deal with this as no one has come close to his soul in years. Soon he must choose between his friend the King and his cherished wife.

Though, the solution to Sin's dilemma is too easily resolved, this remains a strong period piece that fans of Scottish historical romances will enjoy. The story line contains plenty of action and enough tidbits to showcase a bygone era yet insures the audience is able to see inside the souls of the lead couple, especially that of Sin. As with CLAIMING THE HIGHLANDER, Kinley MacGregor releases a delightful tale that the audience will rate highly.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted January 26, 2003