I didn’t pay much attention to the synopsis of this book, since I enjoyed Martha Keyes’ other Scotland books. But with a smallpox epidemic, a number of deaths and sick beds, and tons of tension about “variolation” (a primitive form of immunization), this is *quite* a stressful read for a sensitive reader in the year 2022.
3 stars because I do think Martha Keyes is a good writer. But the mood in this one was just too oppressive for me. ( )

4.5 out of 5 stars!

When Dr. Graeme MacNeill arrived at the village of Craigmuir, he didn't expect to make the acquaintance of Isla Findlay, the niece of his late uncle's neighbor. Instead of getting his business quickly settled, Graeme ended up staying at the village amidst the outbreak of smallpox, a disease that the village was wholly unprepared for and in which Isla is forced to face her own values that differs with her uncle, who raised her when her mother died. Both Graeme and Isla face their own personal issues and their feelings for each other while working together during this chaotic time.

My first Martha Keyes book is a wonderful introduction to the author's works. This clean, sweet romance showed how much the author researched the history of smallpox and how it affected Scotland in the year of 1794. I found both Graeme and Isla as strong characters that complement each other. There were also some strong secondary characters that made quite an impression as they either hindered the couple or helped the couple get closer together. Since the setting is set during a crucial time period, there will be some dire consequences for the characters. And I find the writing style of the author of my liking.

Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more the author's works in the future.

**Thanks to the author for the review copy.** ( )