My book group just read WAVERLY by Sir Walter Scott (yes, I read in print, too, although these days I listen more), which is the story of an English soldier’s time among Scots Highlanders preparing for a final attempt to install Bonnie Prince Charlie as the king of England. Scott gives the true picture of how distinct, how remote, how stunning the topography is in the Highlands, north of Glen Mor, the Highland Fault.
Now, even if you aren’t an Outlander fan (yet), I hope you can imagine from that description how this awe-inspiring setting is the perfect backdrop for any romance. (Romance writers have learned to omit references to mosquitoes!) And so, we couldn’t resist bringing you a bunch of new Highland audio — quite a variety, but plenty of Scotland to gorge yourself on!
MURDER TAKES THE HIGH ROAD
by Josh Lanyon, Read by Gary Furlong
Harlequin Audio
Narrator Gary Furlong plays an American in Scotland in Lanyon’s self-aware murder mystery romance. Librarian Carter Matheson participates in Dame Vanessa Rayburn’s author tour of the Highlands, even though his ex, Trevor, and Trevor’s new boyfriend Vance are unpleasant distractions. Listeners will enjoy solving the mystery with Carter.
HIGHLAND CONQUEST
by Alyson McLayne, Read by Rosalyn Landor
Recorded Books
AudioFile Earphones Award
Narrator Rosalyn Landor’s melodic voice and unparalleled ability to make even secondary characters memorable solidifies an already strong Scottish historical romance. Forced to flee her clan while dressed as a boy, desperate Amber McPherson needs help from a Scottish laird.
A DEVIL IN SCOTLAND
by Suzanne Enoch, Read by Flora MacDonald
Blackstone Audio
In 1816, after living in Kentucky for 10 years, Callum MacCreath returns to Scotland to avenge his brother Ian’s death. He works with Ian’s widow, Rebecca, his first love, to protect her and her daughter from the evil clan chief, Maxwell, who may strike again. Narrator Flora MacDonald’s portrayal beguiles the listener.
And, if that’s not enough, I also HIGHLY recommend OUTLANDER by Diana Gabaldon, read by Davina Porter, and THE WINTER SEA by Susanna Kearsley, read by Rosalyn Landor.
