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Last Flame of Alba #2
Lady of Ross
Born to a great destiny and an eternal love…or so he once believed.
Malcolm MacHeth, one time Earl of Ross and pretender to the throne of Scotland, has languished in prison for half his life when his eldest son is betrayed and joins him in captivity.
Malcolm’s wife, Halla, who has ruled his old earldom alone all this time, turns the disaster into a daring plan to free both men.
But then Malcolm spoils everything; he doesn’t come home.
Hurt and insulted, with only the companionship of her faithful harpist, Muiretach, Halla leaves the safety of Ross to rescue Mairead, the brave young woman who has risked her life for the MacHeths and is now in trouble.
Malcolm, who taught himself to endure captivity, finds his new freedom even more of a challenge. But when fresh dangers threaten Halla, his family and his people, he can only ride to their aid; and in doing so, embraces a lesser destiny and a greater love.
This is a sequel to Rebel of Ross
Malcolm MacHeth, one time Earl of Ross and pretender to the throne of Scotland, has languished in prison for half his life when his eldest son is betrayed and joins him in captivity.
Malcolm’s wife, Halla, who has ruled his old earldom alone all this time, turns the disaster into a daring plan to free both men.
But then Malcolm spoils everything; he doesn’t come home.
Hurt and insulted, with only the companionship of her faithful harpist, Muiretach, Halla leaves the safety of Ross to rescue Mairead, the brave young woman who has risked her life for the MacHeths and is now in trouble.
Malcolm, who taught himself to endure captivity, finds his new freedom even more of a challenge. But when fresh dangers threaten Halla, his family and his people, he can only ride to their aid; and in doing so, embraces a lesser destiny and a greater love.
This is a sequel to Rebel of Ross
- GenresHistorical
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2017
60 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Mary Lancaster
139 books517 followersMary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
October 6, 2022
Malcolm MacHeth, one time Earl of Ross and pretender to the throne of Scotland, has already languished in prison for half his life when his eldest son is betrayed and joins him in captivity. Malcolm’s wife, Halla, who has ruled his old earldom alone, turns the disaster into a daring plan to free both men. But then Malcolm spoils everything; he doesn’t come home. Hurt and insulted, with only the companionship of her faithful harpist, Muiredach, Halla leaves the safety of Ross to rescue Mairead, the brave young woman who has risked her life for the MacHeths and is now in trouble. Malcolm, who taught himself to endure captivity, finds his new freedom even more of a challenge. But when fresh dangers threaten Halla, his family, and his people, he can only ride to their aid.
The second book in the series & another captivating read, which I devoured in a couple of sittings as I was desperate to know if Malcolm & Halla would find their HEA after being apart for so long. Strong characters, a fast paced story with intrigue, surprises, adventure & of course love. I highly recommend it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in the series & another captivating read, which I devoured in a couple of sittings as I was desperate to know if Malcolm & Halla would find their HEA after being apart for so long. Strong characters, a fast paced story with intrigue, surprises, adventure & of course love. I highly recommend it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 8, 2023
“A Constant Blaze” is a medieval saga about the MacHeth family and their cunning ways.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 7, 2022
Exciting, entertaining, and well-written, I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic drama. When men's ambition results in disaster, it is the women in their lives that have to pick up the pieces. Halla, Lady Ross, has earned the respect of her clan whilst her husband languished in captivity, as a result of her leadership and prowess with a bow and arrow. Betrayed by a man who was once a friend, Halla's son ends up incarcerated with his father, the Earl of Ross. The women in the family and their friend Mairead are central to the rescue of both men, bringing about a daring escape, for which Mairead pays a price. Sadly, Lord Malcolm is not yet ready to face his wife, thereby leaving her face yet more skulduggery. Fortunately, he comes to his senses in time to go to his wife's aid and hopefully win her trust once again. The novel is fast-paced, with wit, feisty women, and men who protect their women at all costs. It is also a standalone and comes to an excellent conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
February 18, 2023
I like that the author brings to this book the historical information or facts that transpired during the the ruling of King of Scott’s. Added to this story is the romance that takes place during this time. These moments are exciting and charming at the same time. I love the book.
October 4, 2022
The goings on in this wonderful historical work of fiction are set during the Middle Ages, roughly around 1153 and onward. The story opens a window for a glimpse of times when warring clans clambered for ascendancy especially for the coveted position of the King of Scots, by those claiming to have royal blood and be the rightful heir.
Alas for Malcolm Aed MacHeth, around whom this story centers, along with his sons and wife Halla, Lady Ross. Several of the books' characters were true-to-life figures, of whom this Malcolm, the Earl of Ross, once was. Of course, this being fiction as well as historical, some of the "facts and figures" will be altered; I believe you could call that author's license.
The title, A Constant Blaze, is rather apt as the author, Mary Lancaster, keeps the punches coming and the reader rarely can guess what will happen next. I really enjoyed reading this with all the intrique, galloping horses and strumming harpist. Some may take exception though to the intimate encounters intimated and described. All in all, a book worth reading.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
October 2022
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
Alas for Malcolm Aed MacHeth, around whom this story centers, along with his sons and wife Halla, Lady Ross. Several of the books' characters were true-to-life figures, of whom this Malcolm, the Earl of Ross, once was. Of course, this being fiction as well as historical, some of the "facts and figures" will be altered; I believe you could call that author's license.
The title, A Constant Blaze, is rather apt as the author, Mary Lancaster, keeps the punches coming and the reader rarely can guess what will happen next. I really enjoyed reading this with all the intrique, galloping horses and strumming harpist. Some may take exception though to the intimate encounters intimated and described. All in all, a book worth reading.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
October 2022
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
January 22, 2023
What a journey to reach HEA! To say this story is emotional is a huge understatement. My heart ached for the h because she has waited 22 years for her husband to be released. What he does will break the h's heart (and mine). As the story unfolds you realize why he did what he did.
The story is filled with cat and mouse antics. When there is interaction between the H/h do they know who the other is or not? So much intrigue on this alone.
The h wonders if her husband was faithful to her while in prison. He wonders if she was faithful to him while he was gone. A lot of the story is policial, but even though, most of the story the h/H are apart, you felt the love they had for each other.
Some nasty villains, great main and secondary characters, so many twists and turns to reach HEA. Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 3 out of 5 and filled with love and passion.
This is book 2 of the series, and it could be a stand alone, but you will enjoy it more to read book 1.
I liked how more information on the H/h first met was in this story. Showed back in the beginning how they truly were made for each other.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic, heavy at times on politics and some steam. Heart felt epilogue over 50 years in the future. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some other insights to the story. (ljb)
The story is filled with cat and mouse antics. When there is interaction between the H/h do they know who the other is or not? So much intrigue on this alone.
The h wonders if her husband was faithful to her while in prison. He wonders if she was faithful to him while he was gone. A lot of the story is policial, but even though, most of the story the h/H are apart, you felt the love they had for each other.
Some nasty villains, great main and secondary characters, so many twists and turns to reach HEA. Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 3 out of 5 and filled with love and passion.
This is book 2 of the series, and it could be a stand alone, but you will enjoy it more to read book 1.
I liked how more information on the H/h first met was in this story. Showed back in the beginning how they truly were made for each other.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic, heavy at times on politics and some steam. Heart felt epilogue over 50 years in the future. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some other insights to the story. (ljb)
October 1, 2022
5 stars
Mary Lancaster is a consistent delight. I'm enjoying this medieval series. This is the second book, and though it isn't a necessity I think you gain more from having read the first one. Halla has been on her own for 20 years as her husband, Malcolm has been imprisoned by the King of Scots. She's the Lady of Rsos, has three adult children and has run Malcolm's kingdom in the meantime. Her son, Donald has been captured as so she intiates a daring adventure to free him and her husband. She's helped by Mairead, the Lady of Kinggowan who has acted as a go between and who she wonders whether was Malcom's lover as well. The escape is succesful but then Mairead is threated and Halla goes with her harpist and a couple of soldier escort to rescue her. Good story. Lovely to see Malcolm eventually reunited with Adam the seer and his daughter. Excited for the next episode.
I believe you will enjoy this series and heartily recommend it. Some lovely romantic and passionate scenes.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Mary Lancaster is a consistent delight. I'm enjoying this medieval series. This is the second book, and though it isn't a necessity I think you gain more from having read the first one. Halla has been on her own for 20 years as her husband, Malcolm has been imprisoned by the King of Scots. She's the Lady of Rsos, has three adult children and has run Malcolm's kingdom in the meantime. Her son, Donald has been captured as so she intiates a daring adventure to free him and her husband. She's helped by Mairead, the Lady of Kinggowan who has acted as a go between and who she wonders whether was Malcom's lover as well. The escape is succesful but then Mairead is threated and Halla goes with her harpist and a couple of soldier escort to rescue her. Good story. Lovely to see Malcolm eventually reunited with Adam the seer and his daughter. Excited for the next episode.
I believe you will enjoy this series and heartily recommend it. Some lovely romantic and passionate scenes.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2022
This is the second installment of the series Last Flame of Alba. This was quite the story with intrigue and romantic drama and I was captivated from the very start. Halla's husband, Malcolm, the Earl of Ross, has been in prison half his life, and Halla remains on the outside picking up the pieces and overseeing the earldom on her own and has earned the respect of her clan. Betrayed by a man who she once considered a friend, her son also ends up in prison alongside her husband. Halla and the women of her family along with a friend, Mairead, plan a daring escape for the men, but Malcolm does not come, as he is not ready to face Halla. Assisting them, Mairead lands in trouble and Halla goes off to rescue her. When Halla and his family begin to face new dangers, Malcolm can't stay back and goes to their aid.
Filled with intrigue, romance, adventure, and danger, this was a very captivating read which kept me glued from start to finish. A very enjoyable and fast-paced story that I am glad to have had the opportunity to read.
My thanks to Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Filled with intrigue, romance, adventure, and danger, this was a very captivating read which kept me glued from start to finish. A very enjoyable and fast-paced story that I am glad to have had the opportunity to read.
My thanks to Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest and voluntary review.
October 20, 2022
Halla Aka Lady Ross and Malcolm Aka Earl of Ross story is definitely one for the ages! How could a man or woman marriage survive 2 decades apart!
Halla thrived and kept Brecka prosperous and also fought off would be amorous Lords because she was beautiful!
Malcolm had plenty of opportunity to betray his vows but he did not!
Their community was one of Peace, solidarity and prosperity!
After so many years apart everyone was not happy for a reunion!
But this couple had to relearn, gain trust and insight into each other! What a love story!
Halla was only 14 when they wed! Malcolm was 18 very young to be given yo a warrior and Malcolm wise enough to know what a treasure Halla was!
There are interactions with Malcolm sons and their wives and girlfriends that is just precious!
When Halla confronts the woman who thought she loved her husband well it was priceless done with grace and dignity!
Can’t wait for Gormflaith story! Bravo and well done!!
Halla thrived and kept Brecka prosperous and also fought off would be amorous Lords because she was beautiful!
Malcolm had plenty of opportunity to betray his vows but he did not!
Their community was one of Peace, solidarity and prosperity!
After so many years apart everyone was not happy for a reunion!
But this couple had to relearn, gain trust and insight into each other! What a love story!
Halla was only 14 when they wed! Malcolm was 18 very young to be given yo a warrior and Malcolm wise enough to know what a treasure Halla was!
There are interactions with Malcolm sons and their wives and girlfriends that is just precious!
When Halla confronts the woman who thought she loved her husband well it was priceless done with grace and dignity!
Can’t wait for Gormflaith story! Bravo and well done!!
October 4, 2022
Malcolm MacHeth has been imprisoned for half his life, but now his eldest son has joined him.
Lady Halla MacHeth has been ruling her husband's lands while he's been away. Now she's furious and it's time to act.
The love between our hero and heroine has already faced more than a few tests but this time it could be the last. With grown up warriors as their sons, to rile either of them could be fatal.
Lots of adventure, excitement and intrigue from great characters fill the pages.
A historical romance with lots of surprises.
This book is the culmination of the troubles this family have faced, but you could enjoy it on it's own.
Great fun.
Lady Halla MacHeth has been ruling her husband's lands while he's been away. Now she's furious and it's time to act.
The love between our hero and heroine has already faced more than a few tests but this time it could be the last. With grown up warriors as their sons, to rile either of them could be fatal.
Lots of adventure, excitement and intrigue from great characters fill the pages.
A historical romance with lots of surprises.
This book is the culmination of the troubles this family have faced, but you could enjoy it on it's own.
Great fun.
October 9, 2022
I really enjoyed the story presented about the history of the MacHeth’s. All people are real but a story created based on facts know of the time. Great fun and a fast read. I will definitely read the 3rd in the series when it is available.
I just reviewed A Constant Blaze by Mary Lancaster. #AConstantBlaze #NetGalley
I just reviewed A Constant Blaze by Mary Lancaster. #AConstantBlaze #NetGalley
October 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Exciting, entertaining, and well written, I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic drama. Strong characters and lots of adventure. Malcolm MacHeth has been imprisoned for half his life, but now his eldest son has joined him. Lady Halla MacHeth has been ruling her husband's lands while he's been away. Now she's furious and it's time to act.
October 26, 2022
The Arrow Pierced his arm
An exciting love between a lady ruling the castle for two decades while her husband was in prison with her sons causing havoc against enemy clans. You will love the conflict and family love.
An exciting love between a lady ruling the castle for two decades while her husband was in prison with her sons causing havoc against enemy clans. You will love the conflict and family love.
November 2, 2022
Excellent
This book is most entertaining as well as informational. Although the story isn't 100% accurate, it still gives a good idea of the times in historical Scotland.
This book is most entertaining as well as informational. Although the story isn't 100% accurate, it still gives a good idea of the times in historical Scotland.
June 14, 2017
History and Romance
I am a history buff, and I love romance. This book has both in equal measure.
It is understood that not much historical facts are there on the Scottish MacHeth family who rebelled to claim the Scottish throne. But the author has come up with a fairly good fiction using what little is available.
The romance is good without the overly done steamy sex scenes found in many romance novels of today. There are tensions, angst, loyalty and devotion which all end satisfactorily.
I am a history buff, and I love romance. This book has both in equal measure.
It is understood that not much historical facts are there on the Scottish MacHeth family who rebelled to claim the Scottish throne. But the author has come up with a fairly good fiction using what little is available.
The romance is good without the overly done steamy sex scenes found in many romance novels of today. There are tensions, angst, loyalty and devotion which all end satisfactorily.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews