The Strongest Heart
Regan Walker
Historical Scottish
In the late 14th century, the Kingdom of the Isles was under assault from the ambitious Albany Stewarts, who were taking advantage of Scotland’s empty throne to increase their power. Jealous of the Macdonald lordship to the west, the ruthless Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany, thwarted Donald of Islay, Lord of the Isles, at every turn.
A man of keen intelligence, strategy and faith, educated at Oxford and a frequent guest of England’s kings, Lord Donald did not intend to allow a traitorous royal thug to rob him of his legacy. The Earldom of Ross was the buffer he needed to keep the Isles safe. Not unmindful of all that was at stake, he took as his bride Lady Mariota, heiress to the Earldom of Ross.
What he could not achieve through diplomacy or marriage, Donald was prepared to claim by right of the sword. In the greatest battle Scotland has ever seen, he would demonstrate the power of the Isles to become the Hero of Harlaw.
Uncaged Review: In Castle Tioram, Ranald has some horrifying news for his half-brother Donald “Donnie” MacDonald. Ranald tells Donald that he would like him to be clan chief for the Macdonald clan because he by right is the feudal heir. Donald isn’t for sure that he is the best choice. He is Oxford-educated and only twenty. Donald accepts the responsibility anyhow. Donald realizes he now needs a wife and decides to honor the childhood arrangement set up by his father and the Earl of Ross’s daughter Mariota Ross. Mariota sends her trusted knights to spy on Donald for her. When Donald finally gets to meet Mariota, he is quite pleased with the betrothal and they marry. Donald thinks everything is going well with most people trusting him to lead the clan, a beautiful wife and a growing family, isn’t all that perfect. Many want to be clan chieftain including his own family. Donald has no choice but fight his own family to prove himself or risk losing the support of the clan.
This is the third book in The Clan Donald Saga and what an exhilarating tale it is! These books are all wonderfully diverse, different and exciting! The story instantly transports you to medieval Scotland quite effortlessly! The three-dimensional characters just make you part of the story too. It’s amazing how Ms. Regan Walker writes these captivating novels, each varied and unique in their own way that makes the reading of them just utterly delightful! Donald was a magnificent hero and person! He was the unsung warrior. Many people don’t believe in him because of his youth, but he always proves everyone wrong. While Mariota the feisty-spirited heroine, is just his perfect counterpart. Sure, I did have an absolute girl crush on her, but she was just amazing! Even all the minor characters are extraordinarily distinct! Do I look forward to the next in the series? Yes, I do. Ms. Walker has definitely captured my attention, and I am ready for her next jaunt into history or wherever she wants to take us. I am down for the journey!
Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst
5 Stars
