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A Thistle in the Mist
Meara isn’t thinking about death, that morning, when she kisses her mother good-bye, but hours later she is, as her fingers slide into the back of Mother’s shattered skull. Empty eyes – the empty eyes of her mother – stare right through her and Meara thinks her world has ended. She has no idea.
Ebullient and feisty, eighteen-year-old Meara MacDonald lives an idyllic life with her family, on the mist-enfolded Isle of Skye, dreaming of the day when she will wed her heart, the gallant Duncan MacLeod. But fate has other plans and when Aunt Deirdre and Uncle Sloan seep into their midst, Meara’s family is taken, one-by-one, for reasons she discovers are both personal and nefarious.
Mother is found dead, Da disappears, Duncan is taken by the Napoleonic Wars, Meara’s younger sister, Hannah – with child by Uncle Sloan – takes her own life and while Meara sleeps, her newborn son is snatched from her arms.
Unable to reign in her spirit or her tongue, Meara finds herself catapulted from Scotland to a household steeped in mystery in Nova Scotia where, guided by her strength of will, she will fight her way back to the remains of her family; her heart and soul.
**Warning ~ This novel is NOT suitable for the faint of heart. It is NOT a fluffy romance but a gritty tale of tragedy, betrayal and deception with true love, faith and justice. The dialogue throughout is authentic Scottish dialect with true-to-life swearing, violence and sex.
Ebullient and feisty, eighteen-year-old Meara MacDonald lives an idyllic life with her family, on the mist-enfolded Isle of Skye, dreaming of the day when she will wed her heart, the gallant Duncan MacLeod. But fate has other plans and when Aunt Deirdre and Uncle Sloan seep into their midst, Meara’s family is taken, one-by-one, for reasons she discovers are both personal and nefarious.
Mother is found dead, Da disappears, Duncan is taken by the Napoleonic Wars, Meara’s younger sister, Hannah – with child by Uncle Sloan – takes her own life and while Meara sleeps, her newborn son is snatched from her arms.
Unable to reign in her spirit or her tongue, Meara finds herself catapulted from Scotland to a household steeped in mystery in Nova Scotia where, guided by her strength of will, she will fight her way back to the remains of her family; her heart and soul.
**Warning ~ This novel is NOT suitable for the faint of heart. It is NOT a fluffy romance but a gritty tale of tragedy, betrayal and deception with true love, faith and justice. The dialogue throughout is authentic Scottish dialect with true-to-life swearing, violence and sex.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2013
27 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Megan Denby
2 books167 followersI'm a Canadian girl and I live in the cozy, lakeside community of Port Perry, Ontario. I grew up on a farm in the middle of a family of six, with two older sisters, whom I wanted to be just like and a younger brother who explored the back roads with me on our bikes. My world is my family, my friends and my writing.
A baseball player for twenty years, I retired after breaking both my ankles and have since taken to the lake to become an avid dragonboater. I decided to challenge myself this year (a.k.a. midlife crisis) and am currently training for The Warrior Dash - an extreme 5K obstacle course. A true Canadian, I love watching hockey and recently joined the local women's hockey league as a rookie goalie. When I'm not hanging out with my family, I can be found drawing inspiration at our cottage in Northern Ontario.
I love a good story, no matter what genre. Twists and turns and the unexpected are what draw me in initially but the writing must also be beautiful and flowing, although raw and gripping is good too. I firmly believe in the 'show don't tell' technique. Lyrical prose get me every time. My favourite authors range from Luanne Rice to Tami Hoag but I am discovering some exciting indie authors that I will soon add to this list!
A Thistle in the Mist was an idea born over ten years ago and was inspired by the turbulent life of my feisty Scottish great-grandmother. After shelving my novel for many years, I dusted it off, edited like crazy and spent six months conversing with literary agents. Impatient to share my story, I opted to self-publish and released it on Amazon on January 18th 2013.
Between family and research, I am hard at work on my second book, Lost to the Mist, and hope to have it released in 2014.
Please visit my website @ www.megandenby.com for more information
A baseball player for twenty years, I retired after breaking both my ankles and have since taken to the lake to become an avid dragonboater. I decided to challenge myself this year (a.k.a. midlife crisis) and am currently training for The Warrior Dash - an extreme 5K obstacle course. A true Canadian, I love watching hockey and recently joined the local women's hockey league as a rookie goalie. When I'm not hanging out with my family, I can be found drawing inspiration at our cottage in Northern Ontario.
I love a good story, no matter what genre. Twists and turns and the unexpected are what draw me in initially but the writing must also be beautiful and flowing, although raw and gripping is good too. I firmly believe in the 'show don't tell' technique. Lyrical prose get me every time. My favourite authors range from Luanne Rice to Tami Hoag but I am discovering some exciting indie authors that I will soon add to this list!
A Thistle in the Mist was an idea born over ten years ago and was inspired by the turbulent life of my feisty Scottish great-grandmother. After shelving my novel for many years, I dusted it off, edited like crazy and spent six months conversing with literary agents. Impatient to share my story, I opted to self-publish and released it on Amazon on January 18th 2013.
Between family and research, I am hard at work on my second book, Lost to the Mist, and hope to have it released in 2014.
Please visit my website @ www.megandenby.com for more information
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 18, 2013
Yes I know. It's my own book. I might be a little biased (just a little) but I've read it and I really, really like it! If you like historical romance driven by a spirited Scottish heroine, lots of twists and turns, death, deception, love, hate, justice, faith and heartbreak with a touch of supernatural and an ending that will make you cry, you might like A Thistle in the Mist...
"With his nose almost touching mine, he propped his hands against the wall on either side of my head. His stinking breath burned my eyes as he sneered, “Dinna worry about protectin’ yerself agin me. Ye’ve the body of a boy and ye act like one too.” I couldn’t tear my eyes from his lips. Like a shedding snake, he looked as though he’d outgrown his skin. Shrivelled pieces of lip dangled as he talked. His lids drooped and his tongue flicked out to moisten the corners of his mouth in the same manner as his sister. “Now that wee sister of yers...mmm...she has the body to serve a man proper.” One of his hands dropped to his crotch and he rapidly rubbed up and down.
Hannah’s tearful image came to me and without thought I hiked up my skirts and jerked my knee up hard, bashing Sloan between his legs. His eyes bulged and putrid air exploded from his mouth. His face turned purple and for several seconds he did not breathe. Then he pulled in mouthfuls of air, noisily gulping as though it were water. Doubled over, he clutched his injured manhood and mewled like a new kitten."
"With his nose almost touching mine, he propped his hands against the wall on either side of my head. His stinking breath burned my eyes as he sneered, “Dinna worry about protectin’ yerself agin me. Ye’ve the body of a boy and ye act like one too.” I couldn’t tear my eyes from his lips. Like a shedding snake, he looked as though he’d outgrown his skin. Shrivelled pieces of lip dangled as he talked. His lids drooped and his tongue flicked out to moisten the corners of his mouth in the same manner as his sister. “Now that wee sister of yers...mmm...she has the body to serve a man proper.” One of his hands dropped to his crotch and he rapidly rubbed up and down.
Hannah’s tearful image came to me and without thought I hiked up my skirts and jerked my knee up hard, bashing Sloan between his legs. His eyes bulged and putrid air exploded from his mouth. His face turned purple and for several seconds he did not breathe. Then he pulled in mouthfuls of air, noisily gulping as though it were water. Doubled over, he clutched his injured manhood and mewled like a new kitten."
May 3, 2013
Emotions were high when I finished this book, and what a read it has been. Daring, courageous and thoughtful was only a few adjectives that comes to mind when reading this book. It would stir every emotion in you, from love to hate and all in between when you read this thought provoking book till the end. A book you will not want to put down even for a moment as you are wrapped into the lives of Meara and Duncan MacLeod. Drawn into their everyday life as jealousy, hatred and delusions took away everything they have, stripping them from all that made them human.
The fight to survive and stay in control ever present as they struggled through all the lies to be a family again. The characters believable and becoming beloved friends that still lingers long after you have closed the book.
The story starts in their frail youth where life was still beautiful, uncomplicated and theirs for the taking but when Meara's mother was murdered at the hand of her aunt Deidre and her dad isolated himself from reality Meara had to fight for some normalcy. But it never came as the plot thickens. The spiders web became more entangled with every passing page and you get to know Deidre and Sloan for the corrupt people they were. Demolishing everything sweet and innocent in their surge for power and to have a perfect bairn. Their sick and vile thoughts and deeds spilling over and rots everything they touched. Lies rolled from their tongue as a normal habit, twisting truths to give them the upper hand.
Helplessly the servants watched as the beloved family are scattered and death claimed them one by one, powerless to help them as threats hang over their heads.
Duncan MacLeod, Laird of Dunvegan was also Captain in the infantry during the Napoleon onslaught against England and had to leave Meara behind. Not knowing how sick these two family members were. Wounded during the war he ends up in a hospital in England, a letter informed him that his beloved wife and son died. Believing this lie he had to fight to stay in control. Returning home scarred and shattered.
Robert McDonald father of Meara and Hannah could not handle the sudden death of his wife and isolated himself and in the process left his daughters to defend for themselves. Hannah took her own live after severe abuse from her "uncle" and Meara was locked away in a tower then shipped off as an indentured servant to Canada.
Her trusted friend Rabbie always at her side protecting her, this young man the very strength that held her up in a time when she too did not know what was going on around her. The loss to great to handle. Even in his young age he took care of her womanly needs gaining the trust of Captain Duff McDougall. Caring, watching and protecting her from a lustful predator.
The ever growing bluff widening as these two people are kept apart by circumstances beyond their control and the love of a son keeps them fighting for all that was worth.
So much heartache poured from the pages and you kept on reading hoping that some where love will conquer and the evil will be stopped.
Every character's persona was well developed and got under your skin as you became part of their lives and struggles the story strong and well written to give you a highly recommended Historical Scottish Romance. Definitely one of my favorites and a book I would read again.
Well done Megan, you can be proud.
The fight to survive and stay in control ever present as they struggled through all the lies to be a family again. The characters believable and becoming beloved friends that still lingers long after you have closed the book.
The story starts in their frail youth where life was still beautiful, uncomplicated and theirs for the taking but when Meara's mother was murdered at the hand of her aunt Deidre and her dad isolated himself from reality Meara had to fight for some normalcy. But it never came as the plot thickens. The spiders web became more entangled with every passing page and you get to know Deidre and Sloan for the corrupt people they were. Demolishing everything sweet and innocent in their surge for power and to have a perfect bairn. Their sick and vile thoughts and deeds spilling over and rots everything they touched. Lies rolled from their tongue as a normal habit, twisting truths to give them the upper hand.
Helplessly the servants watched as the beloved family are scattered and death claimed them one by one, powerless to help them as threats hang over their heads.
Duncan MacLeod, Laird of Dunvegan was also Captain in the infantry during the Napoleon onslaught against England and had to leave Meara behind. Not knowing how sick these two family members were. Wounded during the war he ends up in a hospital in England, a letter informed him that his beloved wife and son died. Believing this lie he had to fight to stay in control. Returning home scarred and shattered.
Robert McDonald father of Meara and Hannah could not handle the sudden death of his wife and isolated himself and in the process left his daughters to defend for themselves. Hannah took her own live after severe abuse from her "uncle" and Meara was locked away in a tower then shipped off as an indentured servant to Canada.
Her trusted friend Rabbie always at her side protecting her, this young man the very strength that held her up in a time when she too did not know what was going on around her. The loss to great to handle. Even in his young age he took care of her womanly needs gaining the trust of Captain Duff McDougall. Caring, watching and protecting her from a lustful predator.
The ever growing bluff widening as these two people are kept apart by circumstances beyond their control and the love of a son keeps them fighting for all that was worth.
So much heartache poured from the pages and you kept on reading hoping that some where love will conquer and the evil will be stopped.
Every character's persona was well developed and got under your skin as you became part of their lives and struggles the story strong and well written to give you a highly recommended Historical Scottish Romance. Definitely one of my favorites and a book I would read again.
Well done Megan, you can be proud.
April 2, 2013
Megan Denby is a hugely talented Author. In this, her first novel, she has created a high benchmark for what she can achieve. This is a book that is easily read by both female and male readers. Megan's intelligent and intuitive use of male themes, mixed in with a story of love, devotion, betrayal, trust, hope, determination, makes for a compelling read. Meara, the main character is brilliantly crafted, and leaves you in no doubt, what a warm and loving person she is. Taken on a wild roller-coaster, starting in Scotland during the Napoleonic Wars, and then crossing oceans and back to have her life restored, this is both artistic and touching. An insight into the cruelty of humanity and the vulnerabilities that the devious exploit. Fantastic use of words. Keep a look out for Megan, as I believe she is going to be a best-seller!
August 7, 2013
Even though this kind of genre isn't normally my kind of thing, I hoped it might be in some way similar to RLS and the story isn't quite as girly as the cover might lead one to suppose. The Scottish-ness is perhaps a tiny bit overdone in places, but certainly adds atmosphere and ambience to the story. Later on, the action moves to other locations which adds some welcome variety.
The plot, and especially the way it is told, flies along at an excited pace. I found this book a real page turner of a read, especially early on. The style is a little gushing and over-emotional in places, leaving the reader almost exhausted as they are so drawn into the story. I'm usually pretty good at guessing denouements, but this held a few surprises in store.
This is one of the few indies I've read where I've wanted to see it through to the end. A solid 4 out of 5.
The plot, and especially the way it is told, flies along at an excited pace. I found this book a real page turner of a read, especially early on. The style is a little gushing and over-emotional in places, leaving the reader almost exhausted as they are so drawn into the story. I'm usually pretty good at guessing denouements, but this held a few surprises in store.
This is one of the few indies I've read where I've wanted to see it through to the end. A solid 4 out of 5.
January 10, 2014
I want to rate this book a solid 4 but just can't quite bring myself to do it, so I'll settle for a high 3. Overall I was mostly captivated by this story, it moved along quickly, and I found the characters likeable (with the exception of the villains, of course!) However, there is a degree if predictability with a few moments of, "oh, I didn't see that coming!!" that were enough to keep me reading to the end. I'll admit, I nearly gave up on this book early on - the predictable coincidences and in some cases pathetic actions (or inaction as the case may be) of the main characters left me shaking my head, then, bam, either things would pick up again, giving me hope that all would right itself, or one of those surprise zingers would come along to pique my interest once more. Overall, a good first novel for Canadian author Megan Denby, but I think I'm going to take a pass on the sequel.
March 18, 2013
Would have been 5 stars if not for the lesbian thing that happened very briefly. That little nugget came out of no where, added NOTHING to the story and left me thinking "WTF". The story was very good, well written, sucked you in right away. However, I think it could have been a trilogy very easily. The last third of the book felt very rushed. But overall, very very good
May 18, 2013
I loved this book! It could easily be turned into a movie or a TV mini-series. There was so much pain and suffering endured through loss of family. I could read this over and over, just like I could see "Gone With the Wind" over and over. It needs a sequel.
June 6, 2013
I couldn't put this down! Every time you think you know what's going to happen there's another twist...story of triumph over evil and mentally insane step mother
June 4, 2013
Goodness, what a ride! I read this in one day.
July 1, 2018
I really wanted to enjoy this book, but I felt it dragged on too much. There were some really good parts of this book, mainly when Duncan and Meara’s Dad was involved. I feel like the book went in to too much detail in places that it didn’t really need too. It took me a long time to read and I never really got in to it!
August 13, 2014
A Journey well worth the Trip!
I have never been to Scotland. After reading, A Thistle in the Mist, I want to visit the Isle of Skye and see those thistles in the mist the author talks about. I also wish I could meet Meara MacDonald and her strapping young man Duncan MacLeod there. But they lived out their incredible lives in the eighteen hundreds.
Writer Megan Denby created an entire world in this novel, which I felt privileged to visit. From the start of the book, I was fascinated by time and place, and in particular the language of the Scots. What a lovely lilt that Scottish burr is! What fun it was to meet Meara as she sings a song written by the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns. Of course, she calls him Rabbie Burns! Don’t you simply love it when a writer knows her stuff? Yes, I’m one of those who checks. And Denby knows what she is talking about. From the colors of the MacDonald tartan to the claret our heroine’s father drinks. While I think of Scotland as being famous for its single malts, in the eighteen hundreds claret was as common a drink as milk.
As our heroine Meara goes from a carefree life at Duntulm Castle to heartbreak, sweet Duncan tells her, “Ah, lass, if I could take away the hurtin’, ye ken I would.” You got to love a sweet laddie like him! As Meara has to fight for her life alone while her man is away fighting Napoleon, she is sustained by Duncan’s love.
Will our sweet lassie get her hunk of a laddie in the end? Take the journey with Meara, Duncan and all the characters author Denby brings alive on the page. It’s well worth the trip.
I have never been to Scotland. After reading, A Thistle in the Mist, I want to visit the Isle of Skye and see those thistles in the mist the author talks about. I also wish I could meet Meara MacDonald and her strapping young man Duncan MacLeod there. But they lived out their incredible lives in the eighteen hundreds.
Writer Megan Denby created an entire world in this novel, which I felt privileged to visit. From the start of the book, I was fascinated by time and place, and in particular the language of the Scots. What a lovely lilt that Scottish burr is! What fun it was to meet Meara as she sings a song written by the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns. Of course, she calls him Rabbie Burns! Don’t you simply love it when a writer knows her stuff? Yes, I’m one of those who checks. And Denby knows what she is talking about. From the colors of the MacDonald tartan to the claret our heroine’s father drinks. While I think of Scotland as being famous for its single malts, in the eighteen hundreds claret was as common a drink as milk.
As our heroine Meara goes from a carefree life at Duntulm Castle to heartbreak, sweet Duncan tells her, “Ah, lass, if I could take away the hurtin’, ye ken I would.” You got to love a sweet laddie like him! As Meara has to fight for her life alone while her man is away fighting Napoleon, she is sustained by Duncan’s love.
Will our sweet lassie get her hunk of a laddie in the end? Take the journey with Meara, Duncan and all the characters author Denby brings alive on the page. It’s well worth the trip.
April 4, 2014
It took a while for me to really get into the book. It was very difficult at first to understand since the author would jump from English for the narration and then go into the Scottish dialect for conversations between characters. There were also several words that I had to read a few times in order to translate them to English. I do understand the reasoning, although, I think it may have been easier to get into the book if it was all done in the same dialect, especially since most of the time it felt like it was being narrated by the different characters in the book and not by a separate storyteller. After reading about a third of the way, I was brought into the book and had a hard time putting it down. The ending was exactly as expected, but I didn't feel disappointed. Instead, I was very happy that the author ended it how she did. If she had done any other ending, I probably would have been pretty upset and only given it 2 stars. I wanted to actually give this book 4 stars, but because it took so long for me to get into it and understand what was being said, I have to give it only 3.
I'm not sure if I will read the next book as it really feels that everything that could happen to the main character happened and finally some good came into her life. It should just end there as a happily ever after. From what I have seen of the description for the second book, it sounds like it may just be another rehashing of the same story only with the characters being a bit older. Sequels are not always a good idea, so I fear that the sequel to this book may not live up to how good the first one was.
I'm not sure if I will read the next book as it really feels that everything that could happen to the main character happened and finally some good came into her life. It should just end there as a happily ever after. From what I have seen of the description for the second book, it sounds like it may just be another rehashing of the same story only with the characters being a bit older. Sequels are not always a good idea, so I fear that the sequel to this book may not live up to how good the first one was.
September 1, 2013
Meara's life is turned upside down when her wicked stepmother (Dierdre) uses deceit and worse to worm her way into the MacDonald clan. Dierdre and her brother's plot spreads like a poison through Meara's world in the Scottish Highlands. Meanwhile, the love of Meara's life leaves to go to war with Napoleon.
The story delivers dramatic and tense moments from the perspective of the feisty and loyal Meara in the first person. Dialogue and action balance well as the story develops, and Denby handles erotic sequences expertly. I found myself turning pages to find out what would happen next, and I'm happy to report that this book lends itself well to a sequel.
For your information, Denby composes her characters' dialogue in the Scottish dialect, and that forced me to slow my reading in order to "hear" the characters, but the narrator uses standard English.
Megan Denby has successfully crafted a highly despicable set of antagonists in Deirdre and her twisted brother Sloan, but our protagonist (Meara) is a worthy opponent.
Reviewed by
Chaunce Stanton
Author of The Blank Slate Boarding House for Creatives: A Tale of Magic, Manners, and Scandal
The story delivers dramatic and tense moments from the perspective of the feisty and loyal Meara in the first person. Dialogue and action balance well as the story develops, and Denby handles erotic sequences expertly. I found myself turning pages to find out what would happen next, and I'm happy to report that this book lends itself well to a sequel.
For your information, Denby composes her characters' dialogue in the Scottish dialect, and that forced me to slow my reading in order to "hear" the characters, but the narrator uses standard English.
Megan Denby has successfully crafted a highly despicable set of antagonists in Deirdre and her twisted brother Sloan, but our protagonist (Meara) is a worthy opponent.
Reviewed by
Chaunce Stanton
Author of The Blank Slate Boarding House for Creatives: A Tale of Magic, Manners, and Scandal
July 6, 2013
I have just returned from holiday, where I read this book cover to cover in just over 48 hours. To me, the mark of a good storyteller is one who can keep you constantly engaged and Megan Denby did this fantastically.
The basic premise may seem like one we have encountered time and again; the classic fairy tale story of a carefree young girl, who suddenly has her world turned upside down, and has to battle evil in the form of cruel relatives, but A Thistle in the Mist is so much more than this and the story itself has many different layers. Think along the lines of a Scottish Tess of the d'Urbervilles, but with it's own unique twist.
The writing is seamless, reminding me of the crisp engaging style of Nora Roberts, and the characters so well drawn, they feel like flesh and blood coming alive off the page. You are rooting for Meara and Duncan, feel their grief, frustration and anger, but also the secondary characters are just as well rounded. Honourable young Rabbie, his loyal and devoted family, tragic Hannah, sad young Vanessa and the insidious ghastly Sloane. All the way through I kept thinking about how well this tale would translate to the big screen and maybe this is something to hope for in the future.
Megan Denby is definitely a talent to watch and I am now eagerly awaiting the sequel.
The basic premise may seem like one we have encountered time and again; the classic fairy tale story of a carefree young girl, who suddenly has her world turned upside down, and has to battle evil in the form of cruel relatives, but A Thistle in the Mist is so much more than this and the story itself has many different layers. Think along the lines of a Scottish Tess of the d'Urbervilles, but with it's own unique twist.
The writing is seamless, reminding me of the crisp engaging style of Nora Roberts, and the characters so well drawn, they feel like flesh and blood coming alive off the page. You are rooting for Meara and Duncan, feel their grief, frustration and anger, but also the secondary characters are just as well rounded. Honourable young Rabbie, his loyal and devoted family, tragic Hannah, sad young Vanessa and the insidious ghastly Sloane. All the way through I kept thinking about how well this tale would translate to the big screen and maybe this is something to hope for in the future.
Megan Denby is definitely a talent to watch and I am now eagerly awaiting the sequel.
August 12, 2016
I got this because I saw it advertised as a romance. That's the only reason I would have bought it. I only download non-fiction, romance, and humor. That said, once I started it, I tried to get into it. I love historical fiction, and I love stories about Scotland, but this was just horror upon horror piled up. I felt like I was reading a Bertrice Small story, but without any actual romance thrown in. Sure, there's Duncan, but he's not there most of the time, and a romance novel follows the ups and downs of the couple's courtship. That's not what this book is about. It's a drama, which is fine if that's what you're looking for. Even after switching gears, I couldn't get more than halfway through the book.
March 24, 2014
I abandoned this twice and finally decided to plow through and see if it could hold my interest to the end.
I can't say I'm glad I did.
I have little patience for stupid situations and this was just one after another. Of course, I can't whinge too hard about these people allowing horrible things to happen without a fight when I've been too compulsive to let a book go unfinished. Even one that just leaves me with my face scrunched up in disgust because I've wasted my time on it.
Even worse, though we get a fairly happy ending, the sequel promises things will go thoroughly to shite again.
Erm. I've learned my lesson and will pass.
I can't say I'm glad I did.
I have little patience for stupid situations and this was just one after another. Of course, I can't whinge too hard about these people allowing horrible things to happen without a fight when I've been too compulsive to let a book go unfinished. Even one that just leaves me with my face scrunched up in disgust because I've wasted my time on it.
Even worse, though we get a fairly happy ending, the sequel promises things will go thoroughly to shite again.
Erm. I've learned my lesson and will pass.
March 11, 2014
This book is categorized as a romance and during the first couple of chapters I thought I was in for a predictable ride and wondered if I wanted to stay on for that many pages. Wow, was I surprised (and really happy) to be wrong. Don't get me wrong - there is a romance in there, but it is far overshadowed by a plethora of activity and events that you can hardly see coming. But then, the book started out with really fast action, so I shouldn't have been surprised. I found this to be one of the most unique "romance" novels out there and thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 25, 2014
Cinderella had a wicked stepmother but Meara had one that was evil beyond belief and Deidre also had serious mental problems. The novel is set in Scotland and Canada during the napoleonic wars and is filled with some warm and engaging characters (Rabbie, Mary, Angus, and the ship captain) as well as the evil ones (especially Deidre's brother and mother). Colorful descriptions of smells--wild flowers, horses, sweat, and unwashed bodies.
No graphic sex or violence
No graphic sex or violence
December 25, 2015
This book is amazing. Megan Denby has created a story that comes to live. I instantly loved Meira, it was very easy to get wrapped up in this book. I love it when a book can make me smile, laugh and cry and this book made me experience all of these. I found the writing to be easy to follow and honestly I loved that there was scottish phrases and language in the story, for me this made the story seem more genuine. I am honestly looking forward to the next book!
June 26, 2014
LOVED IT! Good story. Kept me riveted. Never really sure who might live, who might die. Liked how all focal characters were not forgotten. Ms Denby wrapped it up beautifully. Well worththe time to meet and get to know Meara and Duncan and everyone else. >sigh...< good book
June 30, 2014
I enjoyed the strong sense of place in this Scottish tale. Although there were times where I felt that the central character went through a little too much hardship, there was great dramatic tension that kept me reading. Well done and I look forward to the next book from this author.
July 30, 2014
There's something for everyone in this book - romance, adventure, suspense and crime. Following the highs and lows of a Scottish lass and her family as they deal with joy and happiness as well as loss. With the added twist of cruel con men and women out to get all they can. Well worth a read!
September 16, 2014
"WOW!"
I truly loved this book! Megan Denny has written a beautiful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I fell in love with the characters. Be prepared for an emotional ride. I can't wait for the next book. Hope it's out soon.
I truly loved this book! Megan Denny has written a beautiful story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I fell in love with the characters. Be prepared for an emotional ride. I can't wait for the next book. Hope it's out soon.
December 13, 2014
Real Thistles
This story is so full of sadness it's hard to recommend it. Still, it kept me reading and eventually some happiness came into their lives. It was worth the tears in the end.
This story is so full of sadness it's hard to recommend it. Still, it kept me reading and eventually some happiness came into their lives. It was worth the tears in the end.
November 20, 2015
Predictable
The story line was fair, and the plot predictable. Lost my interest a few times . There were no surprises as the story unfolds. There was to much of ( I know what will happen next).
The story line was fair, and the plot predictable. Lost my interest a few times . There were no surprises as the story unfolds. There was to much of ( I know what will happen next).
September 1, 2014
Not read any by this author before, but really enjoyed this one. Will look for other books by the same author.
November 29, 2014
Shades of Outlander without the time travel. I also like the female character better.
February 2, 2015
Awesome storyline
Gripping details from beginning to end. Hard to put down. Makes you to jump in the book and fight for the characters.
Gripping details from beginning to end. Hard to put down. Makes you to jump in the book and fight for the characters.
April 4, 2017
Interesting but unbelievable plot in parts. Complete with wicked stepmother, lost Prince Charming, loyal servants, evil sidekick, and benevolent strangers.
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