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by: Vickie McDonough
Dancing Word Reviewer
Title: The Mark of Salvation
Author: Carol Umberger
Publisher: Integrity Publishers
ISBN: 1-59145-007-1
Genre: Inspirational/Historical/Romance
When Countess Orelia Radbourne journeys to Scotland with her soldier
husband, she believes they will soon be awarded the Scottish estate of
Dunstraun—once the English conquer the vile Scots. But everything goes
wrong. Her beloved John is dead. The Scots have beaten the odds and won
victory against the much larger English force. Orelia finally arrives at
Dunstraun, not as the new owner, but as captive of a huge, somber Scotsman
named Ceallach. Will she ever be free or see England again?
Ceallach dedicated his life to serving God and his king, Robert The
Bruce. As a warrior monk—one of the esteemed Templar Knights, Ceallach
fought for the church he loved. But now the Knights are disbanded or dead.
Ceallach has lost his faith and has a price on his head. The last thing he
wants is to be responsible for the sad Englishwoman. But that is exactly
what The Bruce orders him to do, until they can arrange for a prisoner
exchange.
As Ceallach endures the nightmares of his haunting past and Orelia
grieves over her husband’s death, the two form an unlikely friendship.
Just when their feelings begin to deepen, a prisoner exchange is arranged.
Orelia returns to England to claim her late husband’s estate. Ceallach
promises to come should she ever need him, even though it could mean his
death. Ceallach is never out of her mind for long, but Orelia knows there
is no chance of love for an English countess and a Scottish soldier who’s
taken a vow of chastity. Or is there?
The Mark of Salvation, book three in Carol Umberger’s The
Scottish Crown Series, recounts a fascinating era of ancient history. The
story takes place several years after the death of William Wallace as
Scotland continues to fight for freedom and recognition of her king. I was
enthralled by the detailed information on the Templar Knights. I don’t
believe I’ve read a book about this time period before. It’s obvious that
Ms. Umberger has spent a lot of time doing research.
The characters are extremely well drawn. My heart ached for Ceallach, a
man without hope who carries an almost overwhelming burden of past events.
Though troubled, he is a hero to admire—a man of integrity and honor.
Orelia never caves in to her grief, but bears it with quiet dignity. The
Scottish setting comes alive in vivid detail as Ms. Umberger paints a
beautiful picture with her colorful words.
History lovers and romance lovers are certain to find The Mark of
Salvation a stirring and satisfying read. And even if you don’t favor
historical fiction, I challenge you to give The Scottish Crown Series a
try. You won’t be disappointed. I look forward to seeing more from this
talented author.
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