"Picturesque historical romance"
In 1599 accompanied by his brother, Drummond Graham insists
that he visits the Main Isle of the Shetland Islands in
order to purchase wool. Drummond actually has a hidden
agenda involving claiming his legacy from the brutally
vicious Patrick Stewart, the Earl of Ornkey and Laird of
the Shetland Isles. Widow Gemma Sinclair, companion to Patrick's wife, has the
uncanny ability to talk with her horse Ting. When Drummond
arrives, Gemma offers to escort him around the isle though
she does not trust the handsome outsider. He reciprocates
her feeling of mistrust. As they become acquainted an
attraction erupts between them that neither wants.
However, when he saves her life, Drummond handfasts with
Gemma because he loves her and wants to share the truth
with her even as he knows her loyalty must be to his enemy
who holds her uncle hostage. The late sixteenth century tour of the Shetland Isles is
beautifully rendered providing a vivid anchor to the story
line. The lead couple is a delight as individuals, but
somehow never spark as a couple. The side tales starring
the ponies are quite charming though one must ponder the
horse logic that filters the narratives. Janet Lynnford
furbishes a picaresque historical romance with the emphasis
on the intrigue and life of the bygone era, which turns the
love story into more of a subplot. Harriet Klausner
Reviewed by PNR Group Member
Posted April 20, 2002
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