Two Scottish clans, the Lochmore and McCrieff, have been in a state of conflict for generations.  Fighting over land, motivated by old feuds and grudges, regular skirmishes and fights, this novel gives a touching and dynamic instalment of the ongoing story. As Rory Lochmore prepares to fight a battle for land that his clan has a valid claim on, he knows that far more than brief bravery is called for on this day. Meanwhile Ailsa is a young woman with some influence in the Clan McCrieff, as the eldest daughter of the acting ruler, as she minsters to the sick Chief Hamish, as the clan’s healer. Intelligent, blunt and perceptive, she is fully aware of the stories of bad feeling between the clans, and has a deeply personal reason for hating those from Clan Lochmore. As a friend is endangered and family duty tested, Ailsa and Rory establish a link that may solve problems, or may create new ones in a dangerous setting with implications for many people.  Ailsa finds herself dangerously attracted to a man who symbolises the enemy; will she be able to resist a man who is seeking to establish himself in so many ways? 

This is a sophisticated historical novel in a setting of medieval life which rejoices in the tiny details. A delicious combination of romance, historical insight and frank descriptions of relationships in a timeless way, this is a totally engaging and involving tale of people so far away in time, but who are forced to respond in ways which are totally understandable today. With a rich mixture of relationships, family revelations and always a hint of danger, this is a novel of love in a time of change and redefined conflict. A sophisticated tale of love, betrayal and long standing secrets, this is historical romantic fiction with so much to offer. 

I found this a tremendous read which I enjoyed on so many levels, incidentally learning much of the strength of clan loyalties. It does not hold back on the details of physical relationships, and yet maintains an admirable balance in terms of the novel as a whole. I enjoyed the description of the strength of friendship between Rory and Paiden, and its effects on the story as a whole. The conflict which dominates Ailsha’s thoughts and emotions is carefully examined, and yet the momentum and pace of the book is tremendous. The atmosphere of the building is well described, and the little touches of realism well explored. Touching and involving, the novel works as a fine account of love and lives in a dynamic way. I am not familiar with the series of novels it represents, so I can state that it works brilliantly as a standalone book. I would love to find out more of this series in time. Nicole has had a tremendous success with this book, and is obviously an experienced writer within this genre.

I was so pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this novel, and recommend it as an excellent read for fans of historical romance and historical fiction generally.