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The Mermaid and the Bear
Isobell needs to escape. She has to. Her life depends on it.
She has a plan and it’s a well thought-out, well observed plan, to flee her privileged life in London and the cruel man who would marry her, and ruin her, and make a fresh start in Scotland.
She dreams of faery castles, surrounded by ancient woodlands and misty lochs… and maybe even romance, in the dark and haunted eyes of a mysterious Laird.
Despite the superstitious nature of the time and place, her dreams seem to be coming true, as she finds friendship and warmth, love and safety. And the chance for a new beginning…
Until the past catches up with her.
Set in the late sixteenth century, at the height of the Scottish witchcraft accusations, The Mermaid and the Bear is a story of triumph over evil, hope through adversity, faith in humankind and – above all – love.
She has a plan and it’s a well thought-out, well observed plan, to flee her privileged life in London and the cruel man who would marry her, and ruin her, and make a fresh start in Scotland.
She dreams of faery castles, surrounded by ancient woodlands and misty lochs… and maybe even romance, in the dark and haunted eyes of a mysterious Laird.
Despite the superstitious nature of the time and place, her dreams seem to be coming true, as she finds friendship and warmth, love and safety. And the chance for a new beginning…
Until the past catches up with her.
Set in the late sixteenth century, at the height of the Scottish witchcraft accusations, The Mermaid and the Bear is a story of triumph over evil, hope through adversity, faith in humankind and – above all – love.
248 pages, Paperback
First published September 21, 2022
About the author
Ailish Sinclair
11 books460 followersAilish Sinclair trained as a dancer and taught dance for many years. She now lives beside a loch with her husband and two children where she writes, dances (yes still, medical conditions allowing) and eats a lot of chocolate.
BOOKS:
Her historical novels combine little-known dark events with love stories. There are witches, bears, kidnappers and Romans to be found in them.
She has written two contemporary series, the spicy Dancer’s Journey and the coming-of-age Castle Dancers.
BOOKS:
Her historical novels combine little-known dark events with love stories. There are witches, bears, kidnappers and Romans to be found in them.
She has written two contemporary series, the spicy Dancer’s Journey and the coming-of-age Castle Dancers.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 7, 2019
What a beautiful book! Historical romance is not my preferred genre to read but I’m committed to stepping out of my reading rut and was hooked in by the blurb and promise of faery castles and misty locks. I was swept up by Isobell’s story and the flow of the prose.
The plot was well developed and follows Isobell’s story as she sails to Scotland to escape a wicked man. We’re introduced to a colourful cast of characters from the motherly cook, Bessie Thom, to the charismatic Thomas Manteith whose combined actions lull you into a false sense of contentment. As I was reading about the joyous developments for Isobell there was this undercurrent that told me something was about to change.
The twist at the end was brutal, graphic, and yes, I shed a tear or two. I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of the witchcraft trials, and to see how easy it was for lives to be changed forever is quite sobering. Fabulously descriptive, The Mermaid and The Bear was a delight to read. There were moments when I felt like I’d stepped into an episode of Outlander, which is no bad thing. The Scottish phrases adding to the beauty of the story.
I may have found a new favourite genre!
My review of The Mermaid and The Bear was provided for Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team. I received a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The plot was well developed and follows Isobell’s story as she sails to Scotland to escape a wicked man. We’re introduced to a colourful cast of characters from the motherly cook, Bessie Thom, to the charismatic Thomas Manteith whose combined actions lull you into a false sense of contentment. As I was reading about the joyous developments for Isobell there was this undercurrent that told me something was about to change.
The twist at the end was brutal, graphic, and yes, I shed a tear or two. I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of the witchcraft trials, and to see how easy it was for lives to be changed forever is quite sobering. Fabulously descriptive, The Mermaid and The Bear was a delight to read. There were moments when I felt like I’d stepped into an episode of Outlander, which is no bad thing. The Scottish phrases adding to the beauty of the story.
I may have found a new favourite genre!
My review of The Mermaid and The Bear was provided for Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team. I received a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2020
One of my favorite parts of reading challenges is being exposed to books I might not otherwise read. As I mentioned elsewhere (Sects and Violence in the Ancient World), I read Ailish Sinclair’s blog. She mentioned her debut novel The Mermaid and the Bear and since debut novel was a category in this year’s Modern Mrs. Darcy challenge, I put one and one together and, remarkably for me, came up with two. I’m not Scottish, but I read for my doctorate at Edinburgh, so I have a fondness for native-grown literature. (My dissertation had a quote from Sir Walter Scott in it.) There might be a spoiler or two below.
The Mermaid and the Bear is an historical novel in that some of the characters are historical. I didn’t know this until the end, but I do think it would not have hurt my reading experience to have known it sooner. The story is fictionalized—not too much is known of women’s lives in the Elizabethan Period—and the crisis revolves around accusations of witchcraft. A somewhat idyllic tale then turns scary. Although I read a lot of history, it still seems unbelievable to me that witch trials were carried out so casually and women (especially) were cruelly executed with no basis in any kind of real evidence. Anger at the church comes through here, and that anger is not misplaced.
A debut novel with a small publisher, The Mermaid and the Bear keeps you turning the pages. At least it did me. I found myself wondering what would happen next. Having been raised by a single mother (abandoned is the more proper word), I have often reflected on the experience of women who’ve had to face difficult times. I’ve come to learn that men, at least historically, have had more options, poor though they may be. My experience will never be the same as that of a gender persecuted simply for being what it is. I took quite a bit away from this first book, and the feeling it left in me, I suspect, will remain for some time.
The Mermaid and the Bear is an historical novel in that some of the characters are historical. I didn’t know this until the end, but I do think it would not have hurt my reading experience to have known it sooner. The story is fictionalized—not too much is known of women’s lives in the Elizabethan Period—and the crisis revolves around accusations of witchcraft. A somewhat idyllic tale then turns scary. Although I read a lot of history, it still seems unbelievable to me that witch trials were carried out so casually and women (especially) were cruelly executed with no basis in any kind of real evidence. Anger at the church comes through here, and that anger is not misplaced.
A debut novel with a small publisher, The Mermaid and the Bear keeps you turning the pages. At least it did me. I found myself wondering what would happen next. Having been raised by a single mother (abandoned is the more proper word), I have often reflected on the experience of women who’ve had to face difficult times. I’ve come to learn that men, at least historically, have had more options, poor though they may be. My experience will never be the same as that of a gender persecuted simply for being what it is. I took quite a bit away from this first book, and the feeling it left in me, I suspect, will remain for some time.
May 24, 2023
An enrapturing tale of love, adventure, witchcraft accusations and the right and proper way to fake a cv to get a job in a castle. I loved this book - Sinclair’s descriptions of character and world alike convey such a depth of raw emotion and beauty, that to find fault in them would speak more to the detriment of the critic than the writer.
March 18, 2021
Scotland in 1597 was not a place to be a woman, especially a woman of faith, opinions or healing gifts. But Isobell has fled from her London home to avoid marriage to a cruel Englishman and has found kindness and friendship in a Scottish castle. Hiding her wealthy background, she starts work as a kitchen maid but her clumsy mistakes reveal her lack of experience. While Bessie, the housekeeper guards her secrets, Isobell must be more cautious with Agnes, the spiteful governess and Christen, the aristocratic lady of the house.
Soon Isobell is captivated by the impressive castle and its fairy tale setting and she finds meeting the Laird is an overwhelming experience. It is a pleasure to read of their growing romance despite misunderstandings but as they grow closer, others gather to cause pain and suffering.
This carefully researched story is based on true events in Aberdeen when cruel men gained power over innocent women by accusing them of witchcraft. It is a horrifying story from our history, mirrored in other parts of the United Kingdom. Thankfully in The Mermaid and the Bear the sadness is tempered by love and kinship in a believable and satisfying conclusion. An enchanting novel.
Soon Isobell is captivated by the impressive castle and its fairy tale setting and she finds meeting the Laird is an overwhelming experience. It is a pleasure to read of their growing romance despite misunderstandings but as they grow closer, others gather to cause pain and suffering.
This carefully researched story is based on true events in Aberdeen when cruel men gained power over innocent women by accusing them of witchcraft. It is a horrifying story from our history, mirrored in other parts of the United Kingdom. Thankfully in The Mermaid and the Bear the sadness is tempered by love and kinship in a believable and satisfying conclusion. An enchanting novel.
December 3, 2019
Ailish Sinclair has written a captivating romantic fairy tale for adults, set in 1597 Scotland.
Isobell has been pledged by her father to marry a man she calls Wicked Richard. Together with two boys, Ian and Jasper, she flees her intended husband and a life of privilege in London, sailing in the hold of a ship to a smugglers cave below a remote castle in Scotland. There she will work as an assistant cook.
With no training for her menial job, she is taken under the wing of Bessie Thom, the castle’s cook – a large, jolly woman who is also an herbalist – who reminds me strongly of Mrs. Fitz in Outlander. Isobell meets Agnes, a sour and bitter young woman who is the governess to Wee Thomas and who loves to tell tales of witchcraft; the handsome Duncan McCulloch, Greeve of the castle; Christen Michel, an elderly woman who is the mother of the Laird’s first wife, Mary, who died giving birth to Wee Thomas; and finally the Laird himself, Thomas Monteith. All of these characters are so well drawn, I could easily see and hear them. The authentic use of Scottish words and phrases draws the reader into this medieval world.
I called this a fairy tale – Isobell falls in love with the laird, a bear of a man who is kind and gentle and sad – and the reader is lulled into contentment by both their love and the beauty that surrounds the castle: fairy pools and standing stones and beautiful woods. But this tale turns grim and gritty when it delves into accusations of witchcraft and witchcraft trials, prevalent at the time.
Thus the narrative encompasses hope and despair, good and evil, friends and enemies. The author writes beautiful descriptive prose of the Scottish countryside and delves into the heart of Isobell in an astonishing way, encompassing her views of conflicts between the Protestant and Catholic faiths and the feeling of the ancient religion, carried on by women, when Isobell finds the standing stones.
I really liked this book, despite the fact I expected and got a satisfying conclusion. Isn’t this usual for fairy tales?
A truly enchanting tale!
Isobell has been pledged by her father to marry a man she calls Wicked Richard. Together with two boys, Ian and Jasper, she flees her intended husband and a life of privilege in London, sailing in the hold of a ship to a smugglers cave below a remote castle in Scotland. There she will work as an assistant cook.
With no training for her menial job, she is taken under the wing of Bessie Thom, the castle’s cook – a large, jolly woman who is also an herbalist – who reminds me strongly of Mrs. Fitz in Outlander. Isobell meets Agnes, a sour and bitter young woman who is the governess to Wee Thomas and who loves to tell tales of witchcraft; the handsome Duncan McCulloch, Greeve of the castle; Christen Michel, an elderly woman who is the mother of the Laird’s first wife, Mary, who died giving birth to Wee Thomas; and finally the Laird himself, Thomas Monteith. All of these characters are so well drawn, I could easily see and hear them. The authentic use of Scottish words and phrases draws the reader into this medieval world.
I called this a fairy tale – Isobell falls in love with the laird, a bear of a man who is kind and gentle and sad – and the reader is lulled into contentment by both their love and the beauty that surrounds the castle: fairy pools and standing stones and beautiful woods. But this tale turns grim and gritty when it delves into accusations of witchcraft and witchcraft trials, prevalent at the time.
Thus the narrative encompasses hope and despair, good and evil, friends and enemies. The author writes beautiful descriptive prose of the Scottish countryside and delves into the heart of Isobell in an astonishing way, encompassing her views of conflicts between the Protestant and Catholic faiths and the feeling of the ancient religion, carried on by women, when Isobell finds the standing stones.
I really liked this book, despite the fact I expected and got a satisfying conclusion. Isn’t this usual for fairy tales?
A truly enchanting tale!
January 23, 2020
Hands down the best book I read all last year. I'd recommend The Mermaid and the Bear to anyone who loves a good book, well-rounded characters and heart-stopping suspense.
June 4, 2020
I finished this book a few days ago and it’s stuck with me. I didn’t realize until I’d reached the end that it’s historical fiction based loosely on real women in 16th century Scotland when witches were rounded up, tortured, and murdered. Somehow it was easier to read when I thought it was pure fiction. After getting to know the characters, the author might as well have stabbed me in the heart.
The whole book is beautifully written. Beautiful prose, beautiful characterization, deeply emotional. For the first half, the book is a sweet love story between Isobell (mistaken as a mermaid) and Thomas (mistaken as a bear). There are villains and obstacles, but life is full of promise and goodness. Isobell is a strong first-person POV character, and I found her thoroughly engaging, kind, sweet, and courageous.
Then, be prepared, for the story takes a dark turn. The author deftly intertwines the cruelty with kindness and faith, and so the story continues to hold onto its commitment to love. The ending is gorgeous and deeply moving. I had a hard time putting the book down. Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction, love stories, tragedies, and the resilience of love, kindness, and faith.
The whole book is beautifully written. Beautiful prose, beautiful characterization, deeply emotional. For the first half, the book is a sweet love story between Isobell (mistaken as a mermaid) and Thomas (mistaken as a bear). There are villains and obstacles, but life is full of promise and goodness. Isobell is a strong first-person POV character, and I found her thoroughly engaging, kind, sweet, and courageous.
Then, be prepared, for the story takes a dark turn. The author deftly intertwines the cruelty with kindness and faith, and so the story continues to hold onto its commitment to love. The ending is gorgeous and deeply moving. I had a hard time putting the book down. Highly recommended for readers of historical fiction, love stories, tragedies, and the resilience of love, kindness, and faith.
December 30, 2019
A beautiful story told through the use of equally beautiful prose. Set in Scotland in the 16th century during the time of witch trials, Ailish Sinclair's THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR tells the tale of English maiden Isobell who escapes her home and the evil intentions of the cruel man she's been promised to marry. Fans of Diana Gabaldon's OUTLANDER will enjoy this book. With that said, there is something more poetically moving about Sinclair's novel. That sentiment does not detract from OUTLANDER. The popularity of that novel and series of books stands to show the worth of Gabaldon's story. What sets THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR apart and makes it so endearing is the powerful flow of the story as it builds towards its poetic ending.
Hope...despair...good and evil...faith...triumph over adversity...and the endurance of love are all covered in this beautifully moving book. Every once and awhile, a story comes along that begs repeated readings in order to savor the tale within. THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR is one such novel.
Hope...despair...good and evil...faith...triumph over adversity...and the endurance of love are all covered in this beautifully moving book. Every once and awhile, a story comes along that begs repeated readings in order to savor the tale within. THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR is one such novel.
December 15, 2020
The Mermaid and the Bear is a very engaging story that will transport you to 16th century Scotland. I fell in love with the well-rounded characters of Isobell, Bessie and Agnes straight away. During the second part of the book I couldn't put it down. I just had to know what happened next! Also loved the references to faeries, mermaids and selkies. The historical notes at the ending of the book are also very interesting. Definitely reawakened my interest in the Scottish witchcraft trials.
October 31, 2019
I read this book via an ARC from the author, for Rosie Amber's Book Review Team. The fact that it was free has not affected this honest review.
I chose this book from the review team list because I've loved looking at the author's marvellous photos of Scotland on her website for some years now; I hoped that anyone so artistic and with such a love for the area in which this story is set would be a fine writer too, though this doesn't necessarily follow, of course—but I'm pleased to say that I was not disappointed.
The Mermaid and The Bear is listed as a historical romance, but it's much more than that. At first, after protagonist Isobell escaped her London betrothal to 'Wicked Richard' and headed for a Scottish castle to work as a kitchen maid, I wondered if the book would be too 'twee' for me; beautifully written and a good example of its type, but I thought it would follow the well-trodden romance novel path of misunderstandings and awkward situations before the lovers come together, and that would be that. I was so wrong! Although the relationship is an important part of the story arc, it is not the sole focus.
Ailish Sinclair's portrayal of 16th century, wild rural Scotland is quite magical. On one recent evening I was curled up in bed, head on cushions and lights dimmed, and I found that I was revelling in every description of the countryside, the day-to-day life at the castle (particularly the Christmas revellry; this made me long to be in the book myself!), the suggestion of ancient spirituality, and the hopes and dreams of the characters. Suddenly I realised that I'd gone from thinking 'yes, this is a pleasant enough, easy-read' to 'I'm loving this'.
From about half-way through, the book becomes very dark indeed, as the witch-hunts of the time rear their gruesome head; there is a strong sense of good versus evil. This is where, for me, it became even more interesting.
Much of the locals' dialogue is written in the Scottish dialect, but this is not overdone, so it didn't become irritating to read at all—it just added authenticity. I liked how Isobell's inner thoughts and conversation took on the Scottish words and phraseology gradually, over time, as would be the case. Her development over the course of the story is so realistic, and the Laird of the castle is the sort of character you can't help falling a little bit in love with. The notes at the back add interest to the whole novel, too.
If you adore historical fiction, especially set in the 16th century, I'd recommend this book without hesitation. If you're a bit 'hmm' about historical romance, I would still recommend it, without a doubt—and this is coming from someone who usually runs a mile from any variation on the romance genre. Go buy it. Now.
I chose this book from the review team list because I've loved looking at the author's marvellous photos of Scotland on her website for some years now; I hoped that anyone so artistic and with such a love for the area in which this story is set would be a fine writer too, though this doesn't necessarily follow, of course—but I'm pleased to say that I was not disappointed.
The Mermaid and The Bear is listed as a historical romance, but it's much more than that. At first, after protagonist Isobell escaped her London betrothal to 'Wicked Richard' and headed for a Scottish castle to work as a kitchen maid, I wondered if the book would be too 'twee' for me; beautifully written and a good example of its type, but I thought it would follow the well-trodden romance novel path of misunderstandings and awkward situations before the lovers come together, and that would be that. I was so wrong! Although the relationship is an important part of the story arc, it is not the sole focus.
Ailish Sinclair's portrayal of 16th century, wild rural Scotland is quite magical. On one recent evening I was curled up in bed, head on cushions and lights dimmed, and I found that I was revelling in every description of the countryside, the day-to-day life at the castle (particularly the Christmas revellry; this made me long to be in the book myself!), the suggestion of ancient spirituality, and the hopes and dreams of the characters. Suddenly I realised that I'd gone from thinking 'yes, this is a pleasant enough, easy-read' to 'I'm loving this'.
From about half-way through, the book becomes very dark indeed, as the witch-hunts of the time rear their gruesome head; there is a strong sense of good versus evil. This is where, for me, it became even more interesting.
Much of the locals' dialogue is written in the Scottish dialect, but this is not overdone, so it didn't become irritating to read at all—it just added authenticity. I liked how Isobell's inner thoughts and conversation took on the Scottish words and phraseology gradually, over time, as would be the case. Her development over the course of the story is so realistic, and the Laird of the castle is the sort of character you can't help falling a little bit in love with. The notes at the back add interest to the whole novel, too.
If you adore historical fiction, especially set in the 16th century, I'd recommend this book without hesitation. If you're a bit 'hmm' about historical romance, I would still recommend it, without a doubt—and this is coming from someone who usually runs a mile from any variation on the romance genre. Go buy it. Now.
May 10, 2021
Isobell is engaged to a brute nicknamed Wicked Richard. She and her brother, along with a friend, escape to Scotland to go incognito and start a new life. Finding work in a castle, Bell makes friends and enemies and attracts the attention of the Laird. But this is the late 16th century when King James is hunting witches and jealous women can make accusations against people they don't like. The first half of this story was rather sweet as the witch trials were only hinted at. In the second part Bell's troubles really begin and we see how women were treated by misogynists parading as godly men. I found this a tale to be swept up in and the ending gave Bell a fairer treatment than in real life.
August 28, 2021
What a book of two halves this is! The first half is a sweet and rather sentimental love story, which is tempered by the beautiful prose and detailed description of the wild Scottish setting. Seen through the eyes of protagonist, Isobell, the Laird's castle and its cast of characters really come to life and you can almost feel the warmth of the roaring fire in the great hall and smell the scent of the heather outside. Then the author, who has lulled you, and poor Isobell, into a false sense of security, hits you with a deep and unexpected dark and dreadful turn. The author pulls no punches when the three women who have been accused of witchcraft are tortured in a tower.
I particularly liked the magical, mythical references to selkies and mermaids, and the exploration of the ancient religion linked to the local standing stones, alongside the contemporary subjugation of the Catholic religion by the Protestant.
Based on well-researched, true events of the witchcraft trials in 16th century Scotland, the author does allow Isobell a much better end than her historical counterpart.
Definitely recommended for fans of historical romance.
I particularly liked the magical, mythical references to selkies and mermaids, and the exploration of the ancient religion linked to the local standing stones, alongside the contemporary subjugation of the Catholic religion by the Protestant.
Based on well-researched, true events of the witchcraft trials in 16th century Scotland, the author does allow Isobell a much better end than her historical counterpart.
Definitely recommended for fans of historical romance.
November 10, 2020
A beautifully written story of love and tragedy, set in the wilds of Scotland in the 1600s. Every word evokes images of people and times long past, with the sights, scents and sounds filling your imagination.
By the end, I felt as though I had gone through the trials with the characters, alongside them as they suffered starvation, beatings, and worse. Christen Michel, Bessie Thom, Wee Thomas, and even spiteful Agnes will all remain with me for a long time, as will Isobel and the laird, Thomas.
This story shows the worst of human nature, and the atrocities that were committed during those wicked times, but it also shows how love, compassion, and forgiveness can heal a tortured soul. A beautiful book that I highly recommend.
By the end, I felt as though I had gone through the trials with the characters, alongside them as they suffered starvation, beatings, and worse. Christen Michel, Bessie Thom, Wee Thomas, and even spiteful Agnes will all remain with me for a long time, as will Isobel and the laird, Thomas.
This story shows the worst of human nature, and the atrocities that were committed during those wicked times, but it also shows how love, compassion, and forgiveness can heal a tortured soul. A beautiful book that I highly recommend.
November 28, 2020
A harrowing read, but excellent! Carefully researched and beautifully constructed, Sinclair does a masterful job wielding her protagonists, her setting, and her scenarios. In the hands of a less-skilled storyteller, this novel could descend into a mountain of historical romance clichés, but instead it rises above to become something richer, darker, and far more beautiful for the scars.
July 1, 2020
I was expecting this to a good book (the blurb is compelling: romantic love fighting the good fight in the midst of the Scottish witch trials, Ailish writes interesting blogs, and her Instagram makes you feel like you are on a tour of magical Scotland).
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But I didn't expect it to be such a GREAT book. Beautifully written but so perfectly not over-written. It's powerful stuff.
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I shed a few tears reading through the historical notes at the end but mostly due to how perfect it is that the author has written such a triumphant tale of love, bravery, and true magic for these women and all women and for the Goddess Energy.
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Totally recommend if you like novels about history, romance, paganism and spiritually.
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But I didn't expect it to be such a GREAT book. Beautifully written but so perfectly not over-written. It's powerful stuff.
⠀
I shed a few tears reading through the historical notes at the end but mostly due to how perfect it is that the author has written such a triumphant tale of love, bravery, and true magic for these women and all women and for the Goddess Energy.
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Totally recommend if you like novels about history, romance, paganism and spiritually.
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February 1, 2021
This book has everything you could possibly want in historical fiction - castles, witches, mermaids, bears - it’s just magical all around! I was initially drawn to the book because of the title - who wouldn’t want to read about a mermaid and a bear?
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book like this and what a world have I been missing! This book intertwines history with fantasy and magic and does it fantastically. Come to think of it, there’s actually a bit of everything in the story - romance, adventure, mystery, fun, fantasy and darkness, all rolled into one beautiful tale. Bravo Ms. Sinclair! I can’t wait for your next book!
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book like this and what a world have I been missing! This book intertwines history with fantasy and magic and does it fantastically. Come to think of it, there’s actually a bit of everything in the story - romance, adventure, mystery, fun, fantasy and darkness, all rolled into one beautiful tale. Bravo Ms. Sinclair! I can’t wait for your next book!
January 4, 2021
The main character, Isobell, pulled me right into the story on the first page. This novel was beautifully written, with engaging characters. I loved the history surrounding the story, and am already recommending this book to friends and family.
July 7, 2021
Romance (historical or otherwise) has been one of my literary mental comfort foods of sorts for many years now. I have probably read hundreds upon hundreds of books in this genre over the past few decades, yet only a comparative few of those stories were crafted so artfully that I had a desire to carry them permanently in my collection. I find Ms. Sinclair’s “The Mermaid and The Bear” to be one such that I would.
Before I go any further, I feel it is important to mention my potential biases, such as they are. I purchased my copy of this book myself and was not asked to read it by the author or anybody else I know. That being said, the author is, however, subscribed to my blog and sometimes- but only sometimes because I am profoundly overwhelmed on the regular- I try to spend a tiny bit of time reading an occasional post or otherwise by those who have visited or are subscribed to my blog. In general, I am *terrible* at on-line reciprocity (really quite terrible if I am going to be honest with you), but I feel that anyone who has sat through one of my on-line rants has earned the respect of a bit of my time in return. I have been meaning to look up this book as a matter of curiosity for quite some time because of that desire to spend some time in the world of others, but only recently did so as I had some extra time to spend while resting and recovering. I am not in contact with that author, and while she has not requested that I read or review this, some could reasonably assume I might possibly be more inclined to think kindly of a work because of the subscription. (I wouldn’t because unfortunately I can also be a bit of a book snob, but in the interest of openness, you now have my disclaimer of any potential bias).
I found her storytelling to have almost a magical quality. Ms. Sinclair has taken three real-life women accused of witchcraft as the inspiration around which she wove a narrative about so many facets of grace and the ability to rise above brutality. This is a book that has some elements that may be triggering to survivors of abuse, domestic violence, or rape. Yet there is a delicacy with which she handles painful issues that doesn’t sink the reader too deep into the darker emotions associated with those experiences. For me, that this book is not in every respect a fairy-tale without becoming too oppressive in it’s darker elements (though she did certainly give her fictional heroine a much happier ending then the character’s real-life inspiration), that it possesses that poignancy of grief and loss mixed with other more joyful moments is what makes this a more memorable read.
I found her world building satisfying and the overall story telling to be captivating. I felt that the main characters were well-developed. I found that there were no noticeable spelling or grammatical errors to jar me out of my enjoyment of the story line itself. I have a deep appreciation for the underlying message of tolerance for others and their beliefs. And as a curvaceous woman myself, I was quite happy to see a heroine with a larger frame :) as this does not happen so often as one would like in this genre. I in fact found this book to be so enjoyable, I have no difficulties whatsoever recommending it and am definitely looking forward to purchasing her next (and will even manage to do so without too much grumbling, stink-eye, or fist-shaking about which website I will have to purchase it from for now until that hopefully happy day when her works are more widely available on other digital platforms).
Before I go any further, I feel it is important to mention my potential biases, such as they are. I purchased my copy of this book myself and was not asked to read it by the author or anybody else I know. That being said, the author is, however, subscribed to my blog and sometimes- but only sometimes because I am profoundly overwhelmed on the regular- I try to spend a tiny bit of time reading an occasional post or otherwise by those who have visited or are subscribed to my blog. In general, I am *terrible* at on-line reciprocity (really quite terrible if I am going to be honest with you), but I feel that anyone who has sat through one of my on-line rants has earned the respect of a bit of my time in return. I have been meaning to look up this book as a matter of curiosity for quite some time because of that desire to spend some time in the world of others, but only recently did so as I had some extra time to spend while resting and recovering. I am not in contact with that author, and while she has not requested that I read or review this, some could reasonably assume I might possibly be more inclined to think kindly of a work because of the subscription. (I wouldn’t because unfortunately I can also be a bit of a book snob, but in the interest of openness, you now have my disclaimer of any potential bias).
I found her storytelling to have almost a magical quality. Ms. Sinclair has taken three real-life women accused of witchcraft as the inspiration around which she wove a narrative about so many facets of grace and the ability to rise above brutality. This is a book that has some elements that may be triggering to survivors of abuse, domestic violence, or rape. Yet there is a delicacy with which she handles painful issues that doesn’t sink the reader too deep into the darker emotions associated with those experiences. For me, that this book is not in every respect a fairy-tale without becoming too oppressive in it’s darker elements (though she did certainly give her fictional heroine a much happier ending then the character’s real-life inspiration), that it possesses that poignancy of grief and loss mixed with other more joyful moments is what makes this a more memorable read.
I found her world building satisfying and the overall story telling to be captivating. I felt that the main characters were well-developed. I found that there were no noticeable spelling or grammatical errors to jar me out of my enjoyment of the story line itself. I have a deep appreciation for the underlying message of tolerance for others and their beliefs. And as a curvaceous woman myself, I was quite happy to see a heroine with a larger frame :) as this does not happen so often as one would like in this genre. I in fact found this book to be so enjoyable, I have no difficulties whatsoever recommending it and am definitely looking forward to purchasing her next (and will even manage to do so without too much grumbling, stink-eye, or fist-shaking about which website I will have to purchase it from for now until that hopefully happy day when her works are more widely available on other digital platforms).
May 14, 2020
Meet Isobell, on the run from a cruel husband-to-be, arriving secretly by night, to the castle where she hopes to begin a new life as a kitchen maid.
Meet Thomas Monteith, the stunning Laird of the castle and his young son “ Wee Thomas “ who Isobell falls hoplelessly in love with after mistaking him for a bear.
After Isobell confesses the real reason why she escaped her past life to Bessie Thom, the cook for the castle,who is also a herbalist/wise woman, she takes care of Isobell and educates her in castle life and also life in general.
I adored this book from the first page to the last, becoming transported to the sixteenth century and becaming enwrapped in their daily lives, I had such a dilemma of not wanting to stop reading and not wanting to read as I knew the book would inevitably end…
There is something for everyone here, whether you want history, drama or a reflective read, guaranteed to keep the reader hooked until the last page.
My favourite quote :
“ …for stories, like people, only change and take new form; they never really end. “
Meet Thomas Monteith, the stunning Laird of the castle and his young son “ Wee Thomas “ who Isobell falls hoplelessly in love with after mistaking him for a bear.
After Isobell confesses the real reason why she escaped her past life to Bessie Thom, the cook for the castle,who is also a herbalist/wise woman, she takes care of Isobell and educates her in castle life and also life in general.
I adored this book from the first page to the last, becoming transported to the sixteenth century and becaming enwrapped in their daily lives, I had such a dilemma of not wanting to stop reading and not wanting to read as I knew the book would inevitably end…
There is something for everyone here, whether you want history, drama or a reflective read, guaranteed to keep the reader hooked until the last page.
My favourite quote :
“ …for stories, like people, only change and take new form; they never really end. “
October 12, 2020
This is one of the most beautifully written books I have ever read. Yes, it is written in one of my favorite time periods, and yes it takes place in one of my favorite places in all the world, but when you combine that with the almost poetic style of Sinclair’s writing—sigh!
Ok, I know it sounds like I’m gushing, and maybe I am, but deservedly so. Sinclair’s development of characters is charming, making you love the characters she loves and hate the characters that she hates. Or, if she doesn’t hate them, she sure does a good job at making me do it for her.
Isobell is an English girl trying to escape the prospects of an abusive marriage to a wicked man. She comes up with a plan to escape to Scotland, leaving her privileged life behind to serve as a kitchen maid on the estate of the young Laird, Thomas Manteith. Isobell finds solace in the beautiful and spiritual countryside of Scotland and I loved viewing her world and experiencing it all over again through her eyes. From the flowering trees, the birds and other wildlife to the ancient stone circles and rocky cliffs of this magical land, Sinclair’s writing is a treat for the senses.
The storyline is beautiful too. And while I enjoyed experiencing all the wonderful sights with Isobell, I was always waiting for the proverbial “other shoe to drop”, and Sinclair did not disappoint!
I have read several books having to do with witch trials, from the North Berwick witch trials in Scotland, to the Salem witch trials in America. All have been well written, but Sinclair’s description of not only the treatment of the accused witches and the bodily harm that they endured, but the spiritual, mental and emotional trauma that these accused women (and men, at times) must have endured, is brilliant.
I will read this book again. Now that I know there is a beautiful end for Isobell (admittedly not the end I was expecting!), I will read it for the pure enjoyment of meandering the deeply moving countryside of Scotland once more.
Ok, I know it sounds like I’m gushing, and maybe I am, but deservedly so. Sinclair’s development of characters is charming, making you love the characters she loves and hate the characters that she hates. Or, if she doesn’t hate them, she sure does a good job at making me do it for her.
Isobell is an English girl trying to escape the prospects of an abusive marriage to a wicked man. She comes up with a plan to escape to Scotland, leaving her privileged life behind to serve as a kitchen maid on the estate of the young Laird, Thomas Manteith. Isobell finds solace in the beautiful and spiritual countryside of Scotland and I loved viewing her world and experiencing it all over again through her eyes. From the flowering trees, the birds and other wildlife to the ancient stone circles and rocky cliffs of this magical land, Sinclair’s writing is a treat for the senses.
The storyline is beautiful too. And while I enjoyed experiencing all the wonderful sights with Isobell, I was always waiting for the proverbial “other shoe to drop”, and Sinclair did not disappoint!
I have read several books having to do with witch trials, from the North Berwick witch trials in Scotland, to the Salem witch trials in America. All have been well written, but Sinclair’s description of not only the treatment of the accused witches and the bodily harm that they endured, but the spiritual, mental and emotional trauma that these accused women (and men, at times) must have endured, is brilliant.
I will read this book again. Now that I know there is a beautiful end for Isobell (admittedly not the end I was expecting!), I will read it for the pure enjoyment of meandering the deeply moving countryside of Scotland once more.
October 30, 2021
What a clever writer this Allish Sinclair is. The first half of this book lulls the reader with the rugged beauty of Scotland, a sweet romance, and the relationships of the people living in the castle. Then you are slammed with the ugliness of the Scottish witch trials and the "good Christian men" who conducted them. All the while, the reader is teased with bits of contemporary Shakespeare, an understanding of the ancient goddess religion, and a mild dose of LBTQ truths. Truly extraordinary...I think I shall have to reread this one.
December 9, 2020
What an astonishing read! You're dunked into gorgeous lands and introduced to enthralling characters immediately. As the story moves, the characters grow, and the plot thickens you fall even more in love with an enchanting pink castle, a magic pond, and a Mermaid and a Bear. With plenty of dark history to keep you on your toes it is definitely a page turner that you won't want to put down.
January 2, 2020
I did enjoy this book but felt all the action about witches was crammed into the last 100 pages. I really admire the way history was bound into the fiction story but would have liked more about witches. In places it was quite atmospheric and the characters were great except some who were so wicked. All in all a good read and I look forward to more from Ailish Sinclair.
November 9, 2019
This was a pleasure to read. A glimpse into the past, complete with joy and sorrow. All lovers of Scottish lore will like this, and be sure to follow the author of Twitter for some beautiful photos!
June 12, 2023
Such a beautifully written story!
June 16, 2021
“Last night I cried
with the women of the castle and the land
who were accused of false witchcraft accusation.
My heart was feeling heavy
I cannot imagine their pain
Pain of Ishobel, Bassie and Christen and Mary and Agnes
Last night I cried
in pain, agony, helplessness.
I feel pity for the world
which is full of filthy men
such as Dunn, John and Wicked Richard
But I am happy
that there are some beautiful men
such as Thomas, Duncan, Jasper and Ian.”
Isobel elopes from her unwanted marriage, along with her twin brother Jasper and his friend Ian. They cross the sea and travelled from London to Scotland.
As decided, Isobel started working as a kitchen maid in the castle of Laird and Ian and Jasper as the farmers. The beautiful girl who has never done a single chore in her house has had to do the kitchen chores. On her first day in the castle, she met Agnes and Bessie, where Agnes was such a bitch. On the other hand, Bessie welcomes her like a mother.
Our lady Isobel love nature the most. She prefers to spend time in the woods, bathing in the lake, singing to birds and going to the stone park.
Isobel and Thomas's journey started from the lake, where they mistook each other as bear and mermaid. Our Laird, Thomas, is a widower and a father to Jr Thomas. As the story further unfolds, Isobel becomes the governess of wee Thomas, replacing Agnes, igniting the jealousy more. The story took a turn when Thomas threw Agnes out of the castle for spreading rumours of Lairds’ Mistress to her wife, Isobel.
Agnes took her revenge by sending Christen, Thomas’ mother-in-law, Bassie and Isobel to Aberdeen, on performing sorcery and witchcraft.
Ailish creates this fictional story to portray the era of mass killing of humans, especially women in the name of witchcraft. She has successfully blended pure love story with the societies greatest crimes based on false beliefs. She used a real-life person who was part of the 'Great Scottish Witch Hunt'.
In all this chaos, Isobel went through a mental and physical breakdown. Isobel was abused physically, sexually and mentally. She was tortured to the brutality.
Isobel and Thomas’ love story unfolds in further chapters and blooms with time. They both heal each other in their darkest time.
The Mermaid and the Bear is not a story, it is a journey of women, of lovers, of a father, of mothers, and believers.
with the women of the castle and the land
who were accused of false witchcraft accusation.
My heart was feeling heavy
I cannot imagine their pain
Pain of Ishobel, Bassie and Christen and Mary and Agnes
Last night I cried
in pain, agony, helplessness.
I feel pity for the world
which is full of filthy men
such as Dunn, John and Wicked Richard
But I am happy
that there are some beautiful men
such as Thomas, Duncan, Jasper and Ian.”
Isobel elopes from her unwanted marriage, along with her twin brother Jasper and his friend Ian. They cross the sea and travelled from London to Scotland.
As decided, Isobel started working as a kitchen maid in the castle of Laird and Ian and Jasper as the farmers. The beautiful girl who has never done a single chore in her house has had to do the kitchen chores. On her first day in the castle, she met Agnes and Bessie, where Agnes was such a bitch. On the other hand, Bessie welcomes her like a mother.
Our lady Isobel love nature the most. She prefers to spend time in the woods, bathing in the lake, singing to birds and going to the stone park.
Isobel and Thomas's journey started from the lake, where they mistook each other as bear and mermaid. Our Laird, Thomas, is a widower and a father to Jr Thomas. As the story further unfolds, Isobel becomes the governess of wee Thomas, replacing Agnes, igniting the jealousy more. The story took a turn when Thomas threw Agnes out of the castle for spreading rumours of Lairds’ Mistress to her wife, Isobel.
Agnes took her revenge by sending Christen, Thomas’ mother-in-law, Bassie and Isobel to Aberdeen, on performing sorcery and witchcraft.
Ailish creates this fictional story to portray the era of mass killing of humans, especially women in the name of witchcraft. She has successfully blended pure love story with the societies greatest crimes based on false beliefs. She used a real-life person who was part of the 'Great Scottish Witch Hunt'.
In all this chaos, Isobel went through a mental and physical breakdown. Isobel was abused physically, sexually and mentally. She was tortured to the brutality.
Isobel and Thomas’ love story unfolds in further chapters and blooms with time. They both heal each other in their darkest time.
The Mermaid and the Bear is not a story, it is a journey of women, of lovers, of a father, of mothers, and believers.
March 4, 2021
This is the first book I read from this author and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. The ending of this book.. come on! I just didn´t expect it! Can´t wait to read other books from this great writer! Amazing job! a must-read! A fantastic book that has it all! I happily endorse this story to any and all who are looking for a romance enjoyable read and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. ¡Great book!
July 24, 2023
A delight in book form. This story of love, history, loss and witches is so beautifully written it was a joy to read. The settings, so well described I felt I could see them and the characters, in all their quirky glory, felt like old friends, or enemies. Add the odd Shakespeare reference, and what more could anyone want?
April 11, 2020
Dear Ailish,
I was fascinating about Isobel and Thomas love story. I loved the way you mixed up historical elements and create such a compassionate story about all the character's living in the castle. Stay safe!
I was fascinating about Isobel and Thomas love story. I loved the way you mixed up historical elements and create such a compassionate story about all the character's living in the castle. Stay safe!
September 30, 2022
Excellent read
Wild, and beautiful, and powerful. Life-affirming. The deep evil of the witch trial simply underlines the power of good.
Off to find what else is in the Manteith Collection...
Wild, and beautiful, and powerful. Life-affirming. The deep evil of the witch trial simply underlines the power of good.
Off to find what else is in the Manteith Collection...
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