Richard Cynster wasn't thrilled with the idea of traveling to Scotland, but maybe it was time to finally make peace with his manner of birth. A cryptic message hinted at a bequest from his long dead mother included in her husband's will. Richard decided to go to escape the heat from the matchmaking mamas in London, and to finally make peace with his bastard origins.

The reading of the will also drew fiery-haired Catriona, who was rumored to be a witch, to old Seamus's manor. She didn't want to go; she only went out of respect for her wily uncle. She would pay her respects, dissuade her cousin Jamie from thinking that he would be her guardian, and leave. That was her plan before she saw his face in a divination bowl. Maybe she was wrong to try to seek out her future because this strong, determined looking man would never suit her.

Catriona and Richard first met in a snow covered cemetery and exchanged kisses, but not names. No wonder Catriona was so shocked when Richard walked into her cousin Jamie's sitting room. They both were there for the will which surprised them both. Crafty old Seamus promised to give away all his money to the church unless Richard and Catriona decided to marry. With all Seamus's relatives looking despondent with their almost brush with fortune and Catriona declaring she would never marry, Richard decided the matter might bare a little thought--a week exactly. The lawyer would return in a week to decide if Seamus's impressive fortune would go to the church or the family would be saved. Quite a challenge, even when you're talking about a witch and a Cynster. The chase was on with Catriona trying to decide if Richard was merely to be the father of her child or would remain a permanent fixture in her life. Unfortunately, her mentor didn't feel the same way. Which was a bad deal since her mentor was witch too.

When was the last time you read a Romance where the heroine was a witch, and the hero, a bastard child, who was dumped on his natural father's doorstep? Not many I bet. If only for that reason SCANDAL'S BRIDE is well worth reading. That doesn't include the nefarious doings going on in the Vale or the mysterious messages from The Lady which keep the valley prosperous. The Family Cynster also makes an appearance in this truly unique novel.

SCANDAL'S BRIDE is the third novel in the Cynster series. It moves quickly with suspicions, misdirection, murderous intent, and the promise of interesting nights. Another not to be missed Cynster novel, Stephanie Laurens delivers again.

Reviewed by Morgan Wyatt
© October 2004