Review of Thorn in My Heart

My sister gave me this novel a couple of years ago. I finally found the time to pick it up and now I must say to my sister, "THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!" This story begins with a strong resemblance to Jacob & Esau of the Bible. I wondered how Liz Curtis Higgs would handle the main character having two wives in 18th century Scotland. But she's a clever and gifted writer who brought a new twist to this ancient story of sisterly rivalry. She used period-correct language and Scottish phrases so well I understood the meaning of them, even though I'm not fluent in the language...modern or ancient. The mark of a good book for me is when I get close to the end and pace myself. I begin to read fewer pages than normal. Thus was the case with "Thorn in My Heart." I didn't want to finish the book because I wasn't ready to leave Scottland and the characters. A quick recap of the story: Jamie stole his brother's inheritance, at the urging of his mother Rowena, and had to flee for his life. He traveled, under harsh conditions, to his Uncle Lachlan's home across the country. Harsh conditions included sleeping on a grave, being robbed of his boots by gypsies, and waking in the forest after an attack to find his horse and belongings stolen. His uncle has two daughters, Rose and Leanna. Jamie loves Rose. Leanna loves Jamie. And Uncle Lachlan loves a nephew who will work for free to gain his daughter. Liz Curtis Higgs has my attention now. She states this is her first historical novel. Great job!! I'll be looking for more books by her.