Being a student of history, I delight in reading stories about people who are caught up in the events of a specific era. This historical romance tells a fun story of two people on different sides of the same event.

Edinburgh is a myriad of energy for those who live there. Bonnie Prince Charlie, or Charles Stuart, has run from the British after trying to reclaim his throne from the English king. The dungeon in Edinburgh Castle is filled with those who were part of the attempt. Captain Francis O’Neill is a close friend of Charles’ and helped him to escape from the British. O’Neill is a handsome and charming Irishman, who believes that the prince should be the King of Scotland. Luckily for him, high-ranking officers are kept under house arrest, and not imprisoned inside the dark walls of the castle.

Lady Mary Buchanan is the sister to William, Earl of Dunronald. Her brother is an officer in the British Army. As with all the ladies of her time, Mary is concerned with not becoming an old maid and marrying herself off to a well-established and wealthy man. Mary’s task is a little more difficult than for most. Not only is she in her early twenties, she has to find someone who will want her for her beauty and her skills, as her family does not have enough money to offer up a dowry. One of her skills is being able to paint exquisitely.

A British officer, General Hawley, has shown an interest in Mary. In order to spend more time with her, he lets her paint his portrait. The general confides to her that they really must find out from Captain O’Neill the location of Charles. Not to kill him, but to bring him back to the city so he can officially declare his rebellion over so that the people will stop uprising. Mary is asked to befriend the captain and see if she can find out where Charles is. She is very pleased to be able to serve her country, not to mention help the general out. Little did Mary or Francis know the romantic adventure upon which they were about to embark.

I found this to be an entertaining book. The story moved well and I found myself thinking how much fun it would be to meet up with a man like Francis. As far as romances go, this one does not offer anything new. It is just the typical storyline of adversaries falling in love. But if you're looking for something to read on a rainy Saturday afternoon, this book would be a good choice.

Reviewed By Kathy Martin
© April 2005