True Heart

Whatever possessed bestselling author Lamb (Beguiled) to cram each and every member of Clan MacKenzie into a historical romance that was slight to begin with? Though famously quirky and never at a loss for snappy conversation, they detract badly from the central story of Virginia and Cameron, lovers separated for 10 long years when Virginia's abducted and sold into indentured servitude in post-Revolution America. Feigning amnesia to keep cruel sufferings at the hands of sadistic owners a secret, she's found by Cameron and brought back to Scotland, where he tries to convince her to abide by their betrothal vows. The revelation of the dark secret, ominously hinted at since chapter one is anticlimactic, and the story ends somewhat dully. Lamb's done better; skip this one. (Feb.)