this author has it all. first work i have read of his but it won't be the last! Although it is obvious to me who the real monster is in the book (and it isn't Nessie), I will let you make your own conclusions (nice of me, isn't it?) The pace is a bit uneven only because of the developing love interest and I am not too sure that it is needed. I think it might be a better book with Mary McPherson, although she is a nice Scottish lass. The author's characterizations are excellent, and he handles the plotting well. Just a five star book. ( )