The Ghost

McCarty brings the saga of Robert the Bruce and the war of Scottish independence to a nail-biting conclusion in her latest Highland Guard romance (after The Rock). McCarty weaves a compelling love story between Joan Comyn and Sir Alex Seton against the violent backdrop of a seemingly endless war between Scotland and England. Alex, a complex man driven by the knightly code of honor, was once part of the Bruce's vaunted Highland Guard, but he betrayed his country by switching allegiance to King Edward. Joan, the loyal and resourceful daughter of Isabella MacDuff (familiar to readers of The Viper), is actually the infamous Scottish spy Ghost and has been feeding the Scots information about English plans over the years. She knows she should spy on Alex, but her own code of ethics makes her reluctant. Joan may not be able to give Alex honesty, but she gives him passion and love, even though the political game pits them against each other. This captivating blend of medieval fact and romantic fiction has plenty of twists and turns, and is a highly satisfying conclusion to a well-crafted series. (May)