Laird of the Black Isle

Continuing her exploration of the MacGregor clan’s romantic escapades (after The Scot’s Bride), Quinn dusts off the tired fall-in-love-with-my-kidnapper trope to unite a plucky, likable Highland lass with a scarred and brooding laird. Laird Lachlan MacKenzie, the Earl of Cromartie, lives alone in his castle on Black Isle in 1712 Scotland, shattered by the murders of his wife and daughter. He provides for his people but takes no interest in village life. When he learns that his daughter may still be alive, he will do anything for information about her—even kidnap Mailie MacGregor on behalf of a rival earl, whose marriage proposals Mailie has repeatedly turned down. But Mailie and her dog win Lachlan’s heart, and instead of turning her over to the other earl he keeps her on Black Isle. Her can-do attitude and maternal instincts help heal the household as she convinces Lachlan to adopt orphaned children while seeking his own child. Series fans know the MacGregor kin won’t allow Mailie to disappear without objection, and familiar faces make ample appearances. This is a predictable but acceptable Highlander romance. Agent: Andrea Somberg, Harvey Klinger Inc. (June)