Lana and the Laird

A young woman meets the literal man of her dreams in York’s latest Untamed Highlander novel (after Susana and the Scot). In early 19th-century Scotland, Lachlan Sinclair, Duke of Caithness, returns to Scotland from London, determined to restore Caithness Castle with profits from his timber holdings. Lachlan is convinced he must accomplish renovations soon, as a curse and a ghostly vision have convinced him that he will die before his rapidly approaching 30th birthday. Lachlan travels to the home of one of his barons, Alexander Lochlannach, Laird of Dunnet, to convince the baron to clear his lands posthaste. Lachlan meets Lana Dounreay, sister of Lady Dunnet, and both Lachlan and Lana are shocked to realize that they have seen each other in dreams. After secret meetings and moonlight rendezvous, Lana convinces Lachlan to abandon his London cravats for traditional Scottish kilts, as he reconsiders his plans for cutting down the ancient trees. The allure of their mutual attraction is otherworldly and electric. Memorable romance and engaging characters are the highlights of this novel, and the touch of mysticism never overwhelms the core story. (June)