Bride for a Knight

Written by Sue-Ellen Welfonder
Review by Heather Domin

Jamie MacPherson is the youngest of ten brothers, and the only one left alive after a terrible tragedy. To strengthen what’s left of his family, Jamie agrees to an arranged marriage with Aveline Matheson, the younger daughter of a rival lord. Fortunately for the young betrothed, they fall in love with each other at first sight; but in the Scotland of 1325 things are not always what they seem, and the new couple’s happiness is threatened before it begins—by family secrets, dark intrigues, plots of revenge, and perhaps even the intervention of the dead.

Welfonder’s love for her setting and time period fill her prose with lush descriptions of a misty Highland scene perfect for mysterious events, eerie visions, and windswept romance. The medieval setting lends atmosphere and feeling rather than important historical plot elements. Though the dialogue can be jargon-heavy at times, the refreshing take on plot (the hero and heroine fall in love at the beginning and spend the story trying to stay together) and sensuality flavored with the supernatural provide for an engaging and enjoyable read. Fans of Scottish romance will find much to savor.