What do you think?
Rate this book
Kaitlyn and the Highlander #13
Lady Mairead: A Prequel
I ran. I ran as if my life depended on it — I dinna ken what had happened tae him.
The men who surrounded us, including my brother, the Earl of Breadalbane, had ripped me from his arms. They told me I would never see him again. They told me that he would die for having met with me in secret, for having sworn tae marry me, for taking me tae his bed.
I raced through the gates and made it tae my mother's chambers and dropped tae my knees in front of her. "Please, I beg of ye, help me."
______________________________
Thus begins the story of the antihero, Mairead, and her adventurous and sometimes malevolent heart. The mother of Magnus Campbell, she was born at Kilchurn Castle in 1651. Her rise through history is entwined with the history of the Campbell clan, the art of Picasso, the roaring 20s in New York City, and ultimately, weaves with the time-traveling kings from the 24th century.
A historical story with glimpses of the genre-bending, century-twisting, action-filled adventure to come, Lady Mairead is a standalone prequel to the Kaitlyn and the Highlander series.
The men who surrounded us, including my brother, the Earl of Breadalbane, had ripped me from his arms. They told me I would never see him again. They told me that he would die for having met with me in secret, for having sworn tae marry me, for taking me tae his bed.
I raced through the gates and made it tae my mother's chambers and dropped tae my knees in front of her. "Please, I beg of ye, help me."
______________________________
Thus begins the story of the antihero, Mairead, and her adventurous and sometimes malevolent heart. The mother of Magnus Campbell, she was born at Kilchurn Castle in 1651. Her rise through history is entwined with the history of the Campbell clan, the art of Picasso, the roaring 20s in New York City, and ultimately, weaves with the time-traveling kings from the 24th century.
A historical story with glimpses of the genre-bending, century-twisting, action-filled adventure to come, Lady Mairead is a standalone prequel to the Kaitlyn and the Highlander series.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 17, 2021
412 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 19, 2021
After 12 books in the Kaitlyn and the Highlander series the reader can't help to have strong feelings about Lady Mairead - disgust, distaste, and downright hatred for this woman who has appeared to be a villain throughout the story. Even when she appears to be helping Kaitlyn and Magnus you know there is always something in it for her. She is always trying to secure power for Magnus - not because he wants it but because she wants it for herself.
In this book we see some of the history of how she came to be this way. I don't think it excuses her future actions but it does explain why she feels the need for power and control. This book provides a fitting backstory to a character that readers have come to hate.
In this book we see some of the history of how she came to be this way. I don't think it excuses her future actions but it does explain why she feels the need for power and control. This book provides a fitting backstory to a character that readers have come to hate.
Read
April 20, 2021I enjoyed this book after reading all of the Kaitlyn and Magnus books before it. It helps you to understand just a little bit why Mairead is the way she is. I guess the only thing I don't get about her is how she treats Magnus who has done nothing but be kind to her. The only times he's ever been a little rough with her is when she puts himself and/or Kaitlyn and his kids in danger. She is definitely money and power hungry and that's because of the time she comes from when women have no voice and can be bought and sold and killed like possessions. She simply wants control of her own life and will do what it takes to achieve that goal. A good read. I am looking forward to more books with the Magnus and Kaitlyn story. Love the books.
April 24, 2021
Explains some things
As I had hoped this book provided interesting information about Lady M. Being a woman is difficult especially in her time period. Without protection a females life can be extremely difficult.
This book showed us some of pain she endured and how it shaped her world view. I enjoyed the book and the detail, however I still am not a fan of Lady M.
The author did an excellent job of unfolding the complicated layers that make up Lady M. It helped me to understand some of her decisions. I’m curious to see how the next book in the series or future books bring us more details about Lady M. Who knows one day I may grow to like her.
As I had hoped this book provided interesting information about Lady M. Being a woman is difficult especially in her time period. Without protection a females life can be extremely difficult.
This book showed us some of pain she endured and how it shaped her world view. I enjoyed the book and the detail, however I still am not a fan of Lady M.
The author did an excellent job of unfolding the complicated layers that make up Lady M. It helped me to understand some of her decisions. I’m curious to see how the next book in the series or future books bring us more details about Lady M. Who knows one day I may grow to like her.
August 8, 2022
I liked the prequel, good to get background in one of my disliked characters in the series lol!
April 29, 2021
Brace yourself
You won't want to, but you cannot help yourself to feel something for the trials and tribulations faced by this woman. A greater understanding for her, empathy perhaps because now, we have context.
Love her or not, you will go back and reread the series, as you know have perspective.
I do wonder though...... Will she get to experience the happiness she longs for?
You won't want to, but you cannot help yourself to feel something for the trials and tribulations faced by this woman. A greater understanding for her, empathy perhaps because now, we have context.
Love her or not, you will go back and reread the series, as you know have perspective.
I do wonder though...... Will she get to experience the happiness she longs for?
April 21, 2023
ONE OF THE BEST TIME TRAVEL SERIES I’VE READ
I read at least 100 books a year and because I subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, I start and stop dozens more books because they aren’t my taste.
What makes Kaitlyn and the Highlander series so awesome, besides the great cast of characters, scenery, plot twists and fluid pace, is the REALITY of the places and situations they find themselves in. Have you ever noticed that most characters in books never have to pee? Haha, seems silly but the rest of us do and so do these characters. In so many stories Medieval times are romanticized, not in these stories. The Middle Ages in Scotland were a rough and brutal time, especially for women, with few luxuries like bathing, even in a castle. These characters have to learn everything about their situations, (including where to go to the bathroom,) and this writer is brilliant at taking the reader along for the journey with them wherever they are. The cast have a full range of emotions, experiences, friendships and betrayals..it’s always interesting. I read every book in sequence without waiting a year for the next book which is a real luxury.
Lady Mairead is a complex and haughty woman and art connoisseur, and in all the previous books, a first class (b) itch. This book, based on her life, brought a great depth of understanding and empathy as to why she is so and simultaneously showed us she is also magnificent as a medieval woman and protective mother as she traverses a modern world. I absolutely loved this series.
I read at least 100 books a year and because I subscribe to Kindle Unlimited, I start and stop dozens more books because they aren’t my taste.
What makes Kaitlyn and the Highlander series so awesome, besides the great cast of characters, scenery, plot twists and fluid pace, is the REALITY of the places and situations they find themselves in. Have you ever noticed that most characters in books never have to pee? Haha, seems silly but the rest of us do and so do these characters. In so many stories Medieval times are romanticized, not in these stories. The Middle Ages in Scotland were a rough and brutal time, especially for women, with few luxuries like bathing, even in a castle. These characters have to learn everything about their situations, (including where to go to the bathroom,) and this writer is brilliant at taking the reader along for the journey with them wherever they are. The cast have a full range of emotions, experiences, friendships and betrayals..it’s always interesting. I read every book in sequence without waiting a year for the next book which is a real luxury.
Lady Mairead is a complex and haughty woman and art connoisseur, and in all the previous books, a first class (b) itch. This book, based on her life, brought a great depth of understanding and empathy as to why she is so and simultaneously showed us she is also magnificent as a medieval woman and protective mother as she traverses a modern world. I absolutely loved this series.
August 13, 2021
Lady Mairead: A Prequel. Book 13
Now I have a better understanding of why she is the way she is and how she got there. So what if you read book 13 before book 1? Here are questions to consider. Book 13 helps you understand but is being less sure of her good/bad intentions by reading book one first help draw out the suspense? Probably yes because you never know what she will do, but it does make her intentions a bit confusing. How important is suspense over confusion. In the end I'd go for suspense. Book 13 does introduce a number of important characters but some don't show up until later in the series. Will readers remember them? Will reading book 13 be enough to draw you into reading book 1? Maybe not. I read book 1 first and I was sucked into the series, getting a little confused here and there how the parts hung together but not enough to stop me from reading more. At first I thought I'd be gungho for new readers to read 13 first but as I considered what I would recommend my sister to do i believe I changed my mind. What do your readers think?
Now I have a better understanding of why she is the way she is and how she got there. So what if you read book 13 before book 1? Here are questions to consider. Book 13 helps you understand but is being less sure of her good/bad intentions by reading book one first help draw out the suspense? Probably yes because you never know what she will do, but it does make her intentions a bit confusing. How important is suspense over confusion. In the end I'd go for suspense. Book 13 does introduce a number of important characters but some don't show up until later in the series. Will readers remember them? Will reading book 13 be enough to draw you into reading book 1? Maybe not. I read book 1 first and I was sucked into the series, getting a little confused here and there how the parts hung together but not enough to stop me from reading more. At first I thought I'd be gungho for new readers to read 13 first but as I considered what I would recommend my sister to do i believe I changed my mind. What do your readers think?
April 27, 2021
SHE DID It AGAIN!!!!
I am a devoted fan of Diana Knightley. The KATH series is my favorite, at this point the characters all feel like family.
It felt good to be back in Scotland again while reading Lady Mairead. She is a character that can seem villainous and leaves you wondering how someone could do the things she did. Then you read this book and It makes her human. You realize you never know what someone has been through and don’t be so quick to judge a book by it’s cover. I couldn’t put the book down, needing to know more about what tragic events in Lady Maireads life caused her to be the way she is. And after reading, you feel bad for her but you also realize you would have done the same thing. Definitely recommend this, especially if you’ve read other KATH books. Trust me, you won’t regret It.
I am a devoted fan of Diana Knightley. The KATH series is my favorite, at this point the characters all feel like family.
It felt good to be back in Scotland again while reading Lady Mairead. She is a character that can seem villainous and leaves you wondering how someone could do the things she did. Then you read this book and It makes her human. You realize you never know what someone has been through and don’t be so quick to judge a book by it’s cover. I couldn’t put the book down, needing to know more about what tragic events in Lady Maireads life caused her to be the way she is. And after reading, you feel bad for her but you also realize you would have done the same thing. Definitely recommend this, especially if you’ve read other KATH books. Trust me, you won’t regret It.
May 14, 2021
So very well written Diana! This book ends where book 1 begins;
Now I understand why Lady Mairead is the way she is. She had a hard life and was waiting 20 Odd years to get Magnus to his Kingdom, only to be accidentally sent to 2017 where he met Kaitlyn. From her point of view, that must have been annoying, and I can see why she didn’t like Kaitlyn.
This book has also made me realise why Lady Mairead seemed so «quiet» in book 1, which is totally out of character for her, because she became a total bitch from book 2. Of course - she was recovering from Lord Delapointes imprisonment. Overall it was a very well written book with a different point of view that filled in some blanks.
Now I understand why Lady Mairead is the way she is. She had a hard life and was waiting 20 Odd years to get Magnus to his Kingdom, only to be accidentally sent to 2017 where he met Kaitlyn. From her point of view, that must have been annoying, and I can see why she didn’t like Kaitlyn.
This book has also made me realise why Lady Mairead seemed so «quiet» in book 1, which is totally out of character for her, because she became a total bitch from book 2. Of course - she was recovering from Lord Delapointes imprisonment. Overall it was a very well written book with a different point of view that filled in some blanks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2022
She's done the impossible
I have been reading this series and thoroughly enjoying it. When Diana announced that there was to be a book about Lady Mairead I did not think I'd read it. I didn't care how she got to be who she is. Lady M is a character to be hated for sure.
When I finally gave in and read this book I was not prepared to empathise with her...AT ALL.
I empathised and I felt outrage and fear on her behalf.
The descriptions of the places, people and even the food make this book come alive like all her others.
Definitely a good read and I can't wait to start the next book.
I have been reading this series and thoroughly enjoying it. When Diana announced that there was to be a book about Lady Mairead I did not think I'd read it. I didn't care how she got to be who she is. Lady M is a character to be hated for sure.
When I finally gave in and read this book I was not prepared to empathise with her...AT ALL.
I empathised and I felt outrage and fear on her behalf.
The descriptions of the places, people and even the food make this book come alive like all her others.
Definitely a good read and I can't wait to start the next book.
August 23, 2021
Prequel but Don’t Read First!
Loved this book! I have read the 12 previous Kaitlyn and the Highlander books and waited to read this one as book 13. So glad that I did. It’s so interesting to have the insight now as to who Lady Mairead is and how she came to be this way! I’m now anxious to reread the entire series with this knowledge. But be sure to wait and read it for your first time as book #13! This is such a fun series to read. Every book better than the last. Thank you Diana Knightley for creating these characters I’ve grown to love!
Loved this book! I have read the 12 previous Kaitlyn and the Highlander books and waited to read this one as book 13. So glad that I did. It’s so interesting to have the insight now as to who Lady Mairead is and how she came to be this way! I’m now anxious to reread the entire series with this knowledge. But be sure to wait and read it for your first time as book #13! This is such a fun series to read. Every book better than the last. Thank you Diana Knightley for creating these characters I’ve grown to love!
January 16, 2023
As a Prequel...
I really didn't want to read this one, simply because I didn't want to like or have sympathy for Lady Mairead! But, as it is part of the storyline, I did read it. I figured it would alter my opinion of her, lol, and I was right, it did. Doesn't change how I feel about the other characters...they are correct in their feelings for her, just as she sees no wrong in how she behaves. 5 star...recommend you read them in order!
I really didn't want to read this one, simply because I didn't want to like or have sympathy for Lady Mairead! But, as it is part of the storyline, I did read it. I figured it would alter my opinion of her, lol, and I was right, it did. Doesn't change how I feel about the other characters...they are correct in their feelings for her, just as she sees no wrong in how she behaves. 5 star...recommend you read them in order!
April 19, 2021
OMG!
The book was awesome! If you’ve ever read any of the Kaitlyn and the Highlander series (which I HIGHLY recommend) you’ve probably wondered about Lady Mairead. This prequel gives the background information that explains why Lady Mairead is the way she is. As in all the KATH books it was a roller coaster of a ride. It has all the feels and as always all the plot twists we KATH fans have come to love.
The book was awesome! If you’ve ever read any of the Kaitlyn and the Highlander series (which I HIGHLY recommend) you’ve probably wondered about Lady Mairead. This prequel gives the background information that explains why Lady Mairead is the way she is. As in all the KATH books it was a roller coaster of a ride. It has all the feels and as always all the plot twists we KATH fans have come to love.
April 24, 2021
Another chapter in a fantastic series
What a prequel! Many answers to a complex personality in the form of Lady M. What would you do for your children to keep them safe from harm? Unthinkable losses, intrigues, etc in her life. That's all I'll all say as I don't want to spoil this must read, just know you won't be disappointed if you are a fan of Kaitlyn and Magnus' story.
What a prequel! Many answers to a complex personality in the form of Lady M. What would you do for your children to keep them safe from harm? Unthinkable losses, intrigues, etc in her life. That's all I'll all say as I don't want to spoil this must read, just know you won't be disappointed if you are a fan of Kaitlyn and Magnus' story.
April 26, 2021
Now I hate to hate her
Yet its so much fun. I love Lady Mairead because she's so terrible I hate her. But now I can't. Dang it. But this does help understand her better. Yet her past is no excuse for how terrible she is. Which is good because she's so fun to hate. My favorite series just keeps getting better. Time to restart it now.
Yet its so much fun. I love Lady Mairead because she's so terrible I hate her. But now I can't. Dang it. But this does help understand her better. Yet her past is no excuse for how terrible she is. Which is good because she's so fun to hate. My favorite series just keeps getting better. Time to restart it now.
July 2, 2021
Really loved this
I really enjoyed this book.. I honestly downloaded it but didn't read it right away because I hate(ed) this character from the series ..but I'm so glad I read it and got to know her and learn why she is fierce and tough and slightly ruthless..I certainly have changed my mind and look forward to how things play out now... Maybe readers should read this one first! Ha
I really enjoyed this book.. I honestly downloaded it but didn't read it right away because I hate(ed) this character from the series ..but I'm so glad I read it and got to know her and learn why she is fierce and tough and slightly ruthless..I certainly have changed my mind and look forward to how things play out now... Maybe readers should read this one first! Ha
July 28, 2022
Very interesting
Being Scottish it was nice to see some of the history hadn't been left out, same with London and France.
No spoilers but the story was exceptional as full of vivid imagery that pulled you into the story.
Really enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next book, book 14 I think.
Being Scottish it was nice to see some of the history hadn't been left out, same with London and France.
No spoilers but the story was exceptional as full of vivid imagery that pulled you into the story.
Really enjoyed it and look forward to reading the next book, book 14 I think.
April 20, 2021
Who knew! Lady M, you were so misunderstood!
Who knew! Lady M, you were so misunderstood! We all thought you were such a .. you know but if we had to endure half of what you did... would we even be able to stand.. such a life!
Who knew! Lady M, you were so misunderstood! We all thought you were such a .. you know but if we had to endure half of what you did... would we even be able to stand.. such a life!
April 21, 2021
When you finally understand a persons motives and reasons
The person you live to hate becomes the person you are cheering for in this book. I finally understand some of why Mairead treats people the way she does and the way she thinks and plots. Cant wait for the next one!!!
The person you live to hate becomes the person you are cheering for in this book. I finally understand some of why Mairead treats people the way she does and the way she thinks and plots. Cant wait for the next one!!!
April 22, 2021
Two thumbs up for Lady Mairead!
I never read prequels. I always want to go forward in a book series never backwards. But I'm so glad I did! I love the way Diana tells a story. Lady M 's story needed to be told.And boy is it a good one!!!
I never read prequels. I always want to go forward in a book series never backwards. But I'm so glad I did! I love the way Diana tells a story. Lady M 's story needed to be told.And boy is it a good one!!!
April 24, 2021
Great author always obliging her fans!!
Diana loves her characters and you will love them too! Diana also loves her fans and is always thinking about making us happy! Which she does!!
Diana loves her characters and you will love them too! Diana also loves her fans and is always thinking about making us happy! Which she does!!
April 24, 2021
Another engaging tale to continue the story
I can’t wait for book 14. I enjoyed learning more about the lady and want the story to continue. The ending left me wondering what happened and where they ended up.
I can’t wait for book 14. I enjoyed learning more about the lady and want the story to continue. The ending left me wondering what happened and where they ended up.
April 28, 2021
God help Us all
Diana Knightley has woven a spell . This book puts so much into perspective. Lady Maiead has so many secrets that she doesn't know which one is driving her ,except to protect her son at all costs ,and get him to his father .
Diana Knightley has woven a spell . This book puts so much into perspective. Lady Maiead has so many secrets that she doesn't know which one is driving her ,except to protect her son at all costs ,and get him to his father .
May 9, 2021
Another winner
We have come to expect to be thoroughly entertained by this series and this installment does not disappoint. Now we are able to understand the Lady Mairead and her machinations.
We have come to expect to be thoroughly entertained by this series and this installment does not disappoint. Now we are able to understand the Lady Mairead and her machinations.
August 8, 2021
Still a fan
I enjoyed this. It was great to have Mairead’s story told. I appreciate her part of the story much better now. Laughed out loud quite a few times as well as being tearful as well.
I enjoyed this. It was great to have Mairead’s story told. I appreciate her part of the story much better now. Laughed out loud quite a few times as well as being tearful as well.
December 18, 2021
Need to read
After reading this I now know why Lady Mairead is the way she is. She has went through a lot and it’s kinda sad that she had to go through all that. Reading this explains so much.
After reading this I now know why Lady Mairead is the way she is. She has went through a lot and it’s kinda sad that she had to go through all that. Reading this explains so much.
May 16, 2022
Life time struggles of a female !
This book the story of how Magnus mother be and who she is and why. Very good reading and terrifying at times, understanding her life gives a new meaning to the reader. I.enjoyed it very much. Recommend it with a 5 Stars review
This book the story of how Magnus mother be and who she is and why. Very good reading and terrifying at times, understanding her life gives a new meaning to the reader. I.enjoyed it very much. Recommend it with a 5 Stars review
November 24, 2022
I was thrilled to have a chance to learn how & why Mairead became the person she did. This story did not disappoint! So well written, exciting, and tragic all at once - and in a good way! I absolutely love this series and have already begun book 14. Keep them coming!
March 18, 2023
Lady Mairead A Prequel Book 13
Poor Lady Mairead had a pretty hard life and did love her children. She was messed with by men and became a hard person. Hopefully things will finally work for her.
Poor Lady Mairead had a pretty hard life and did love her children. She was messed with by men and became a hard person. Hopefully things will finally work for her.
March 13, 2025
Great book!
Love this whole series. Can't help but to read them all and read them again and again. This book is great because we learn why Lady M is the way she is and how Magnus comes to be.
Love this whole series. Can't help but to read them all and read them again and again. This book is great because we learn why Lady M is the way she is and how Magnus comes to be.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews