X Marks the Scot

In Roberts’s serviceable sequel to Temptation in a Kilt, a Highland warrior in 1604 is ordered by King James to marry a Lowland bride. After winning an archery competition, the roguish Declan MacGregor learns that his prize is both the castle of the traitorous earl of Argyll and the earl’s half-sister, Liadain, a beautiful healer whom many believe to be a witch. Though mightily attracted, neither wants the marriage. Declan isn’t happy to end his wenching ways and Liadain knows it, which results in lots of brogue-heavy bickering. There’s also a plan afoot to kill the king and lots of interaction with characters from the first book. Some may find the accented dialogue appealing, but in many places it slows down the narrative. The story is redeemed by Roberts’s deft hand at humor and the relationships among Declan, Liadain, and Declan’s many charming relatives. (Feb.)