Scotland is a beautiful country. But I think what’s drawn me to its shores is the history. Like most kids, I learned about the history of the United Kingdom, working my way through kings like Henry the eight and on the James the first. I learned something of Scotland but never really went any further until I began studying ancient history. Now I loved the Greeks and Romans but it fascinated me to hear that the Celtic people were never conquered.
Hadrian’s wall really caught my attention. Did you know there were roman baths built into it? To me it was fascinating to learn that there were hot baths available in 130 A.D. Although the word available probably isn’t the right one. Living under the rule of Rome wasn’t good unless you were one of the privileged few.
So yes, this brought me to Scotland. I began to study the people that Rome failed to conquer. These tribes dealt with Rome, the Vikings and England but they always managed to hold onto their own identity. One that is remarkable in my opinion. Their music is soul inspiring. When you begin to research the Highlanders, the first thing that I notice is how rough their land is. Carving out a living isn’t easy.
But hands down, the thing that draws me to the Highlanders is the women. It’s easy to become focused on the raw power of the warriors who are called Highlanders but their women were as strong as they were. These females ran the homes and dealt with the Highlanders. There are scattered accounts of just how bold these gals were and I actually enjoyed some of the English accounts most because the English were writing about how uncivilized the women were…but to me, it drove home how those Highlanders maintained such a strong hold on their heritage. It was due to having strong women by their sides. An army is only as strong as the support it has, or in this case the Highlanders were only as gold as their women.
Right…wrong or slightly off balance…that’s my take on it. I mean, after all…it’s the lore and myth I want to capture in these book but I always want to know there are men out there with noble hearts.
My Fair Highlander was a story born out of that ideal. Gordon is looking for a wife that will bring good things to his clan. His desires are second because he’s the laird and takes the position very seriously. Jemma is no less determined to uphold her family honor. Together…they were opposing forces until they discovered just how to manage the reaction they produced together. You can read an excerpt at MaryWine.com and I’m giving away two copies of ‘Improper Seduction’ on my Facebook page. Cheers!