This is a wonderful story,
but a bit difficult to review. First published
in 1946 (Westcott’s first novel), it can hold its own with today’s stories. At
times it seemed more historical fiction, as Scotland’s history is very
definitely a character, but there is also a romance here, a love story of a
bold border lord and his lady. And it was refreshing that it developed in an
unusual way.
As historical fiction, it
drew me in. The dialog was well done and realistic for the time period. As a
romance, the story captured my heart but, alas, they were separated often (as
they would have been true in history) and that will disappoint the romance
reader.
Set in Scotland in the late
16th century (1591-1593), this is the story of Francis Hepburn Earl of Bothwell (presumably
based on Francis Stewart, 5th Earl of
Bothwell), a Border lord who fell out of favor with King James VI for
his rebellious ways.
In a daring escape from Edinburgh
Castle, where he’d been imprisoned on trumped up charges, Bothwell is freed and
flaunts his freedom while impressing the daughter of a wealthy Scots nobleman,
Anne Galbraith. Anne is a bit of a rebel herself and not above chasing after
Bothwell on his latest escapades. Yet there are many other women who love him
and one who isn’t above treachery to keep Anne from him. To me, Anne and Bothwell
seemed perfect for each other. I loved Bothwell’s devil-may-care attitude and
his wit, but he also had a gift with people and a knack for strategy that made
him a compelling figure. The sad part was that King James couldn’t recognize
the asset he had in Bothwell.
Though this is fiction, Westcott weaves
in many historical events and real historical persons, which gave it an
authenticity I loved. It was obviously well researched. There is plenty of
action and adventure in this story, much of which really took place. And it is
very well told. For those of you who like tales from old Scotland with a daring
hero and a feisty heroine, and real history on every page, I recommend this
one!
The book was included in author Shirlee
Busbee’s “short list” when I asked some of my favorite authors to name their 5
favorite historical romances.
Buy on Amazon.
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