Judith James has written a
solid historical romance set in Scotland, England and Ireland in the late 17th
century.
It begins in 1685, as Charles
II dies and James II ascends to the throne. Jamie Sinclair, Earl of Carrick and
Carlyle, an English peer and a spy who is a master of disguise, converts to
Catholicism and serves the new king as he needs the money. Leading soldiers to
Scotland to dispel the Protestants, Jamie marries a Scottish lass to save her
from rape. He first thinks she is a camp follower; little does he know that she
is Catherine Drummond, laird of clan Drummond and an heiress with a title and
fortune. Cat is also proficient with a sword and was raised at the French
court. Jamie intends to annul the marriage and take the wealthy English bride
that James promised him, but when her clan rescues Cat, Jamie loses that
option. So, he decides to recapture his new wife. But she sends him back to
England. Then Cat finds she needs Jamie and comes looking for him, offering him
a divorce and the good graces of his Sire if he will aid her. He needs what she
offers so he accepts. In the meantime, they find great camaraderie and have
many adventures wearing various disguises.
Though Jamie enjoys many
women, and particularly likes the lowborn because he was raised by servants. He
tells Cat he can only offer pleasure and friendship and grows surly when she
mentions love. But Cat is tired of his whores and his games. When Jamie leaves
her for to pursue William's claim to the throne, and her clan calls, she goes
back to Scotland. Then James II falls to William and Mary and war with the
Highlands looms. And Jamie fears for Cat.
Cat is a wonderful heroine,
independent, strong willed and able to take care of herself. Wise in the ways
of the world but ignorant of love, Cat can rule a clan but finds she is
unwilling to play Jamie's games. Jamie is a wonderful kaleidoscope of a
character...so many sides and faces, all of them charming. And somewhere in
them is his heart. The secondary characters are varied and well developed.
James creates a world that fascinates.
This is a great romance rich
in history and details, including the court of King James II. Judith James has
a unique writing style and weaves a wonderful story with a believable romance.
I highly recommend it.
Great review, Regan.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sue! So glad it was helpful.
ReplyDelete