Review of 'The Lady of the Loch' by Elena Collins
Review of The Lady of the Loch by Elena Collins
Release Date: February 23, 2023
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REVIEW
Wow! What a story. I truly was transported to Scotland, to the Loch and castle of Ravenscraig! I was glued to the fascinating plot and all the unusual events every time I opened the novel to keep reading (over a two day period). This is the first Ella Collins novel I have read in full. I do have another of hers on my Kindle app as I was very taken with that sample of her writing style. When I saw she had another one due out in February, I jumped at the chance to review it and I am so glad I did. The content of this gorgeous romantic mystery really touched my heart and stirred my imagination with its mystical atmosphere and paranormal activity. In many ways, the ghostly elements are a bit like Wuthering Heights. A place and life frozen in time that continues to inspire.
This moving dual timeline novel is set in modern day and 1306. The Lady of the Loch is born out of the history surrounding Robert de Brus (King of Scotland) and his early battles (1306) when he sent his second wife, stepdaughter, sisters and brother to find refuge in Kildrummy Castle. But betrayal occurs and horrible things happen to the family members at various stages of events. Then King Robert eventually defeats the English in 1314 at the Battle of Bannockburn. From all the battles and bloodshed, the author dips her pen into this rich well of history to create a fictional story and a fictional character Agnes Fitzgerald. And paints an amazing picture of what it would have been like to have lived at that time. This writer’s canvas is far sweeping with detail, daringness and delight. Agnes is a kitchen servant who is brave, bold and determined. This young woman has seen her share of loss and heartbreak. And yet in the midst of all of the mayhem inflicted on her life and that of her fellow Scotsmen and women, love blossoms in her heart when she meets a young warrior who is the most feared and wildest according to the English. Their story, and that of her half-sister’s, is quite moving and I was completely taken in to their world and saw and felt every emotion imaginable as they battled for their lives and freedom.
The modern timeline also has two sisters (twins) who live in England. Leah is not in a good way when the story begins. She is depressed from various past work and romantic relationship failures, lost and without hope. But her sister Zoe, always the upbeat one with a solid job and in control of her life, tries very hard to support her sister. As she watches Leah spiral further into despair, she knows she must help her so she encourages her to look for a new job. Leah then decides to explore her options. In their search, a perfect position appears but it is in Scotland in a castle. They need a new caretaker and Leah sees this as an ideal opportunity to revamp her life and to use her historian skills and studies.
Leah is half Scottish (one parent is from Scotland) and she wants to explore more of that side of her heritage. She is certain the open spaces and charm of Scotland are what she needs. As a child, it was the one place she felt most at home. You might say her roots are calling her so this position is ideal. The only catch is the owner requires she must have a partner, and since she does not, she banks on her sister fulfilling the role. This is a viable option, for Zoe can work remotely (through her computer) but will she pull up stakes and go to a place that is not her choice and feels foreign to her? For Zoe is more like her English mother and loves her English setting and life.
Leah accepts the job and Zoe gives in, realising how happy it will make her sister. She makes the sacrifice to move to the cold Scottish castle on a three month trial. What neither of them expect is all the drama and mystery that will enter their lives (and the ghosts) that will change them both forever and alter their futures. And love will come in the most unexpected ways.
This novel’s setting and distant past events are well researched and delivered to the page to support and authenticate the historic timeline. I could easily imagine what it was like living in Scotland in this castle in the 1300s. Although Ravenscraig is fictional, it was based on Urquhart Castle. The author has skilfully drawn an impressive character—for it truly has a presence with a voice. It is here where past flows beautifully into the present providing a smooth weave of tales and how each affects the other. The Loch, too, has an epic part in the romance and re-joining of lost souls.
The Lady of the Loch is without question one the most intriguing and beautiful stories I have ever read: well-composed and unforgettable. I was transfixed, charmed and wooed by the mystery, magic and wonder of this Scottish setting (and the cover!) and felt great emotions for the characters in both timelines. There is a welcomed joy and release in the gorgeous ending where past and present come together seamlessly. I absolutely loved this novel and highly recommend it! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
