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The Lady of the Loch
‘Although I believe I will die here in this castle, my spirit will never be silent.’
Ravenscraig Castle, Scotland. 1307
When the castle she works in is sacked by the army of Prince Edward of England, kitchen maid Agnes Fitzgerald manages to escape north of Inverness to throw herself at the mercy of the Lord and Lady at Ravenscraig Castle. Although safe for now, the people of Scotland are fighting hard for their independence, and the threat of the English hangs heavy over the land. But when Agnes spies Cam Buchanan swimming in the loch, her mind turns away from war and towards love. Agnes even dares to dream of a happy future, until she learns that Cam must go and fight alongside Robert de Brus.
Present day
Twins Leah and Zoe need a change, so caretaking at Ravenscraig Castle is the perfect opportunity to get away from it all. Surrounded by rugged Highland countryside, and bordered by a loch, the picturesque setting is everything they dreamed of. But the locals are reluctant to visit Ravenscraig, and there are whispers of ghosts and lost souls. The sisters quickly dismiss such superstition, but soon the overwhelming sadness they feel coming from the tower grows too hard to ignore.
Can the sisters finally right the wrongs of seven hundred years of heartbreak, seven hundred years of betrayal…
USA Today bestselling author Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins, brings you this heart-breaking and unforgettable timeslip novel, perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Diana Gabaldon and Louise Douglas.
Ravenscraig Castle, Scotland. 1307
When the castle she works in is sacked by the army of Prince Edward of England, kitchen maid Agnes Fitzgerald manages to escape north of Inverness to throw herself at the mercy of the Lord and Lady at Ravenscraig Castle. Although safe for now, the people of Scotland are fighting hard for their independence, and the threat of the English hangs heavy over the land. But when Agnes spies Cam Buchanan swimming in the loch, her mind turns away from war and towards love. Agnes even dares to dream of a happy future, until she learns that Cam must go and fight alongside Robert de Brus.
Present day
Twins Leah and Zoe need a change, so caretaking at Ravenscraig Castle is the perfect opportunity to get away from it all. Surrounded by rugged Highland countryside, and bordered by a loch, the picturesque setting is everything they dreamed of. But the locals are reluctant to visit Ravenscraig, and there are whispers of ghosts and lost souls. The sisters quickly dismiss such superstition, but soon the overwhelming sadness they feel coming from the tower grows too hard to ignore.
Can the sisters finally right the wrongs of seven hundred years of heartbreak, seven hundred years of betrayal…
USA Today bestselling author Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins, brings you this heart-breaking and unforgettable timeslip novel, perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Diana Gabaldon and Louise Douglas.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 23, 2023
1712 people are currently reading
2992 people want to read
About the author
Elena Collins
19 books196 followersElena Collins is a pseudonym of author Judy Leigh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
January 23, 2023
A dual timeline story, this is set in modern times and in Scotland of the early thirteen hundreds. It focuses on Zoe and Leah in the present and Agnes and Effie in the past. Parallels are to be seen between the girls in both times.
The book begins with a prologue which is beautifully written.
I love this type of book and usually read them for the past story as I love history. However, with this one I found the modern story appealing to me more. Zoe I really liked. She had a great outlook on life and did her best with her twin Leah, who wasn't having such an easy time. When they go to be caretakers in a Scottish castle, life suddenly changed completely for them both.
The past story didn't grab me as much. I felt that I never got to know the real Agnes. At a certain point it didn't seem to move forward at all and the same things seemed to happen over and over but there is a great deal of history in this part which I found very interesting. Scotland at that time was a brutal and bloody place.
The descriptions of Scotland in both timelines were wonderful.
A very good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an early copy of this book to read.
The book begins with a prologue which is beautifully written.
I love this type of book and usually read them for the past story as I love history. However, with this one I found the modern story appealing to me more. Zoe I really liked. She had a great outlook on life and did her best with her twin Leah, who wasn't having such an easy time. When they go to be caretakers in a Scottish castle, life suddenly changed completely for them both.
The past story didn't grab me as much. I felt that I never got to know the real Agnes. At a certain point it didn't seem to move forward at all and the same things seemed to happen over and over but there is a great deal of history in this part which I found very interesting. Scotland at that time was a brutal and bloody place.
The descriptions of Scotland in both timelines were wonderful.
A very good read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an early copy of this book to read.
August 31, 2023
This ended up being a pretty middle-of-the-road read for me. It took a very long time to get off the ground and honestly, never felt like it truly got going. It was slowly paced and overlong, and neither story from the two timelines managed to fully capture my attention.
A few other things bugged me:
*Why did Agnes present in modern day as such a malevolent spirit? The castle was described as cold and unsettling and the sisters both often talked about feeling unnerved and as if they were being watched by a malicious presence. I assumed that eventually a second spirit besides Agnes—perhaps the traitorous smith from the original keep?—would be revealed to be haunting the castle. Agnes, in her timeline/story, was lovely. Courageous, loyal, kind-hearted. The circumstances surrounding her death were tragic but that alone didn’t explain her hostile bearing towards the sisters. It didn’t make sense and it bothered me.
*What became of Effie?? I was beyond frustrated not to know what became of her and more importantly,
*The present-day romances between the sisters and their love interests muddled the story. They felt forced, underdeveloped, and out of place, esp the romance between Leah and Dan.
*Did I mention the story was super long and slow? 😏
That very final scene at the loch between Agnes and Cam was lovely. I nudged my rating up from 2.5 stars to 3 bc of it.
A few other things bugged me:
*Why did Agnes present in modern day as such a malevolent spirit? The castle was described as cold and unsettling and the sisters both often talked about feeling unnerved and as if they were being watched by a malicious presence. I assumed that eventually a second spirit besides Agnes—perhaps the traitorous smith from the original keep?—would be revealed to be haunting the castle. Agnes, in her timeline/story, was lovely. Courageous, loyal, kind-hearted. The circumstances surrounding her death were tragic but that alone didn’t explain her hostile bearing towards the sisters. It didn’t make sense and it bothered me.
*What became of Effie?? I was beyond frustrated not to know what became of her and more importantly,
*The present-day romances between the sisters and their love interests muddled the story. They felt forced, underdeveloped, and out of place, esp the romance between Leah and Dan.
*Did I mention the story was super long and slow? 😏
That very final scene at the loch between Agnes and Cam was lovely. I nudged my rating up from 2.5 stars to 3 bc of it.
February 8, 2023
Another great read from this author. I loved this one, it was set in Scotland a dual time-line and was very creepy at times. It gave me the shivers. The story that was in the present day was good too and I enjoyed the relationship between the two sisters. This is a book worth reading. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 3, 2023
Long read
This book took forever to get through and almost didn't finish several times. About halfway through is when it does get interesting and it ends just fine. It's okay, the relationships felt forced on the present day characters and idk, just an okay book. Not something I'd recommend or even ever read again.
This book took forever to get through and almost didn't finish several times. About halfway through is when it does get interesting and it ends just fine. It's okay, the relationships felt forced on the present day characters and idk, just an okay book. Not something I'd recommend or even ever read again.
December 5, 2023
‘Although I believe I will die here in this castle, my spirit will never be silent.’
Romance with a mild wash of supernatural. Hallmark movie-grade characters and plot. Excellent development and pacing of parallel plot lines in the fourteenth and twenty-first centuries.
She wasn’t afraid to walk along the path, no matter how steep the fall on either side. Love was everything.
Modern characters are trite compared to their medieval counterparts. May not deserve four stars on any absolute scale, but Collins earns extra credit for the gentle spirit pervading her storytelling.
‘Being a wife and a mother is a double blessing, but it’s a double curse: twice the love, twice the worry…’
Quibbles, mostly historical: ‘The Lord says in Psalms 59, verse 5, “You, O Lord God…”’ Bible wasn’t versified until the sixteenth century. ‘… blasted and broken by boulders from a trebuchet…’ in a sneak attack. How could such large equipment get so close unknown to the already-alert castle?
‘Life was about discovering who you were, finding love in one form or another, holding on with both hands.’
Romance with a mild wash of supernatural. Hallmark movie-grade characters and plot. Excellent development and pacing of parallel plot lines in the fourteenth and twenty-first centuries.
She wasn’t afraid to walk along the path, no matter how steep the fall on either side. Love was everything.
Modern characters are trite compared to their medieval counterparts. May not deserve four stars on any absolute scale, but Collins earns extra credit for the gentle spirit pervading her storytelling.
‘Being a wife and a mother is a double blessing, but it’s a double curse: twice the love, twice the worry…’
Quibbles, mostly historical: ‘The Lord says in Psalms 59, verse 5, “You, O Lord God…”’ Bible wasn’t versified until the sixteenth century. ‘… blasted and broken by boulders from a trebuchet…’ in a sneak attack. How could such large equipment get so close unknown to the already-alert castle?
‘Life was about discovering who you were, finding love in one form or another, holding on with both hands.’
April 21, 2023
This story takes place in the 1300s (Agnes' story) as well as in the modern day (focusing in twins Leah and Zoe), at a castle in Scotland. When the story focuses on Agnes, her romance, and the war between England and Scotland I was so invested and wanting more. I found myself caring very little for the events and characters in the modern timeline, enough that at the end of the book I was speed reading/skipping ahead to get back to the 1300s. I needed closure and justice for Agnes!
3.5 out of 5 stars.
3.5 out of 5 stars.
March 4, 2023
This book is told with dual timelines and takes place in Scotland. Zoe goes with her sister Leah as caretakers of an old Scottish castle. It comes with cold rooms, sounds when no one is there and a ghostly woman.
It’s a lovely story with a little bit of a mystery and romance.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
It’s a lovely story with a little bit of a mystery and romance.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
July 15, 2023
This was bleh for me. Like The Witch's Tree, I think the 1300s placed story is far more compelling than the silly cotton candy fluff of the contemporary story.
The contemporary story started out very strong with an exploration of twin sisters who have a codependent relationship. It's a great portrayal of how said relationship harms both... And then it all falls apart. The character development is non-existent and these sisters become 2D characters in a B-movie romance.
Don't get me wrong, there were issues with the 1300s story too. But the romance element of the contemporary story completely destroyed this book.
2-stars we're generous, its a 1.5 for me.
The contemporary story started out very strong with an exploration of twin sisters who have a codependent relationship. It's a great portrayal of how said relationship harms both... And then it all falls apart. The character development is non-existent and these sisters become 2D characters in a B-movie romance.
Don't get me wrong, there were issues with the 1300s story too. But the romance element of the contemporary story completely destroyed this book.
2-stars we're generous, its a 1.5 for me.
January 19, 2024
The story was good but the execution and writing was just ok. It would’ve been a great story if the characters were built more and the timeline was longer. I know people can fall in love quickly but for every character to start alone and end up happy and in love within 3 months was a bit too much. The love story was too much the focus and not enough character building
March 3, 2023
Lady of the Loch by Elena Collins is the story of women, told in a dual timeline. Twins Zoe and Leah Drummond and Agnes Fitzgerald. The book starts in 1307 in Scotland and we learn about Agnes, where she is living, and what she does. She works in the kitchen of a castle. The Kildrummy castle in Aberdeenshire is besieged by the English and the King of Scotland's son is disemboweled and a friend of hers has his throat cut. Agnes and another girl Effie, that also works in the kitchen, escape the castle and head to Ravenscraig Castle where they seek refuge.
Zoe Drummond has a successful job that she does from anywhere, plus she is very social. Whereas her twin sister Leah is more of an introvert and feels that she fails at everything that she tries to do. When Leah starts looking for a job, she comes across a position as a caretaker in a castle, Ravenscraig she is so excited. One caveat, she has to be part of a couple so she enlists her sister as the other half of the couple. Zoe agrees but only for a 3-month trial
Alternating chapters continue the story of Agnes and Effie, Agnes meets a soldier, Cam, whose mother also works at the castle and they form a relationship and eventually are handfast. This is with all the fighting that is going on between Robert de Brus, who is King of Scotland, and Longshanks, then the proclaimed King. This fighting culminates in the Battle of Bannockburn. A lot of lives were lost on both sides, including Agnes' husband Cam. His body was thrown into the Loch. Agnes is the ghost in the modern time, forever wandering looking for Cam.
When Zoe and Leah learn the story of the two lovers, they want to do the right thing by Agnes. They have both seen her wandering the castle. Zoe meets and becomes lover to Daniel, the owner of the castle and Leah enters into a relationship with Christie, the man who is remodeling the castle for Daniel.
Ghostly sightings, cold rooms, and other ghostly manifestations lead Zoe, Leah, Daniel, and Christie to the tower in an unused wing of the castle. There they find that someone had been walled in and left to die, starving alone. Such a horrible thing to do but we are dealing with medieval times and that is what they did to people that they either feared or that they wanted out of the way.
I am part Scottish and love this kind of story, mixing the past with the present. The cover of this book is beautiful, the research impeccable, and a solid storyline. You will love the ending! If you love historical fiction, give this book a try, you will not be disappointed.
I give the book 5 stars!
Zoe Drummond has a successful job that she does from anywhere, plus she is very social. Whereas her twin sister Leah is more of an introvert and feels that she fails at everything that she tries to do. When Leah starts looking for a job, she comes across a position as a caretaker in a castle, Ravenscraig she is so excited. One caveat, she has to be part of a couple so she enlists her sister as the other half of the couple. Zoe agrees but only for a 3-month trial
Alternating chapters continue the story of Agnes and Effie, Agnes meets a soldier, Cam, whose mother also works at the castle and they form a relationship and eventually are handfast. This is with all the fighting that is going on between Robert de Brus, who is King of Scotland, and Longshanks, then the proclaimed King. This fighting culminates in the Battle of Bannockburn. A lot of lives were lost on both sides, including Agnes' husband Cam. His body was thrown into the Loch. Agnes is the ghost in the modern time, forever wandering looking for Cam.
When Zoe and Leah learn the story of the two lovers, they want to do the right thing by Agnes. They have both seen her wandering the castle. Zoe meets and becomes lover to Daniel, the owner of the castle and Leah enters into a relationship with Christie, the man who is remodeling the castle for Daniel.
Ghostly sightings, cold rooms, and other ghostly manifestations lead Zoe, Leah, Daniel, and Christie to the tower in an unused wing of the castle. There they find that someone had been walled in and left to die, starving alone. Such a horrible thing to do but we are dealing with medieval times and that is what they did to people that they either feared or that they wanted out of the way.
I am part Scottish and love this kind of story, mixing the past with the present. The cover of this book is beautiful, the research impeccable, and a solid storyline. You will love the ending! If you love historical fiction, give this book a try, you will not be disappointed.
I give the book 5 stars!
February 6, 2023
Wow! What a story. I truly was transported to Scotland, to the Loch and castle of Ravenscraig! I was glued to the fascinating plot and all the unusual events every time I opened the novel to keep reading (over a two day period). This is the first Ella Collins novel I have read in full. I do have another of hers on my Kindle app as I was very taken with that sample of her writing style. When I saw she had another one due out in February, I jumped at the chance to review it and I am so glad I did. The content of this gorgeous romantic mystery really touched my heart and stirred my imagination with its mystical atmosphere and paranormal activity. In many ways, the ghostly elements are a bit like Wuthering Heights. A place and life frozen in time that continues to inspire.
This moving dual timeline novel is set in modern day and 1306. The Lady of the Loch is born out of the history surrounding Robert de Brus (King of Scotland) and his early battles (1306) when he sent his second wife, stepdaughter, sisters and brother to find refuge in Kildrummy Castle. But betrayal occurs and horrible things happen to the family members at various stages of events. Then King Robert eventually defeats the English in 1314 at the Battle of Bannockburn. From all the battles and bloodshed, the author dips her pen into this rich well of history to create a fictional story and a fictional character Agnes Fitzgerald. And paints an amazing picture of what it would have been like to have lived at that time. This writer’s canvas is far sweeping with detail, daringness and delight. Agnes is a kitchen servant who is brave, bold and determined. This young woman has seen her share of loss and heartbreak. And yet in the midst of all of the mayhem inflicted on her life and that of her fellow Scotsmen and women, love blossoms in her heart when she meets a young warrior who is the most feared and wildest according to the English. Their story, and that of her half-sister’s, is quite moving and I was completely taken in to their world and saw and felt every emotion imaginable as they battled for their lives and freedom.
The modern timeline also has two sisters (twins) who live in England. Leah is not in a good way when the story begins. She is depressed from various past work and romantic relationship failures, lost and without hope. But her sister Zoe, always the upbeat one with a solid job and in control of her life, tries very hard to support her sister. As she watches Leah spiral further into despair, she knows she must help her so she encourages her to look for a new job. Leah then decides to explore her options. In their search, a perfect position appears but it is in Scotland in a castle. They need a new caretaker and Leah sees this as an ideal opportunity to revamp her life and to use her historian skills and studies.
Leah is half Scottish (one parent is from Scotland) and she wants to explore more of that side of her heritage. She is certain the open spaces and charm of Scotland are what she needs. As a child, it was the one place she felt most at home. You might say her roots are calling her so this position is ideal. The only catch is the owner requires she must have a partner, and since she does not, she banks on her sister fulfilling the role. This is a viable option, for Zoe can work remotely (through her computer) but will she pull up stakes and go to a place that is not her choice and feels foreign to her? For Zoe is more like her English mother and loves her English setting and life.
Leah accepts the job and Zoe gives in, realising how happy it will make her sister. She makes the sacrifice to move to the cold Scottish castle on a three month trial. What neither of them expect is all the drama and mystery that will enter their lives (and the ghosts) that will change them both forever and alter their futures. And love will come in the most unexpected ways.
This novel’s setting and distant past events are well researched and delivered to the page to support and authenticate the historic timeline. I could easily imagine what it was like living in Scotland in this castle in the 1300s. Although Ravenscraig is fictional, it was based on Urquhart Castle. The author has skilfully drawn an impressive character—for it truly has a presence with a voice. It is here where past flows beautifully into the present providing a smooth weave of tales and how each affects the other. The Loch, too, has an epic part in the romance and re-joining of lost souls.
The Lady of the Loch is without question one the most intriguing and beautiful stories I have ever read: well-composed and unforgettable. I was transfixed, charmed and wooed by the mystery, magic and wonder of this Scottish setting (and the cover!) and felt great emotions for the characters in both timelines. There is a welcomed joy and release in the gorgeous ending where past and present come together seamlessly. I absolutely loved this novel and highly recommend it! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
This moving dual timeline novel is set in modern day and 1306. The Lady of the Loch is born out of the history surrounding Robert de Brus (King of Scotland) and his early battles (1306) when he sent his second wife, stepdaughter, sisters and brother to find refuge in Kildrummy Castle. But betrayal occurs and horrible things happen to the family members at various stages of events. Then King Robert eventually defeats the English in 1314 at the Battle of Bannockburn. From all the battles and bloodshed, the author dips her pen into this rich well of history to create a fictional story and a fictional character Agnes Fitzgerald. And paints an amazing picture of what it would have been like to have lived at that time. This writer’s canvas is far sweeping with detail, daringness and delight. Agnes is a kitchen servant who is brave, bold and determined. This young woman has seen her share of loss and heartbreak. And yet in the midst of all of the mayhem inflicted on her life and that of her fellow Scotsmen and women, love blossoms in her heart when she meets a young warrior who is the most feared and wildest according to the English. Their story, and that of her half-sister’s, is quite moving and I was completely taken in to their world and saw and felt every emotion imaginable as they battled for their lives and freedom.
The modern timeline also has two sisters (twins) who live in England. Leah is not in a good way when the story begins. She is depressed from various past work and romantic relationship failures, lost and without hope. But her sister Zoe, always the upbeat one with a solid job and in control of her life, tries very hard to support her sister. As she watches Leah spiral further into despair, she knows she must help her so she encourages her to look for a new job. Leah then decides to explore her options. In their search, a perfect position appears but it is in Scotland in a castle. They need a new caretaker and Leah sees this as an ideal opportunity to revamp her life and to use her historian skills and studies.
Leah is half Scottish (one parent is from Scotland) and she wants to explore more of that side of her heritage. She is certain the open spaces and charm of Scotland are what she needs. As a child, it was the one place she felt most at home. You might say her roots are calling her so this position is ideal. The only catch is the owner requires she must have a partner, and since she does not, she banks on her sister fulfilling the role. This is a viable option, for Zoe can work remotely (through her computer) but will she pull up stakes and go to a place that is not her choice and feels foreign to her? For Zoe is more like her English mother and loves her English setting and life.
Leah accepts the job and Zoe gives in, realising how happy it will make her sister. She makes the sacrifice to move to the cold Scottish castle on a three month trial. What neither of them expect is all the drama and mystery that will enter their lives (and the ghosts) that will change them both forever and alter their futures. And love will come in the most unexpected ways.
This novel’s setting and distant past events are well researched and delivered to the page to support and authenticate the historic timeline. I could easily imagine what it was like living in Scotland in this castle in the 1300s. Although Ravenscraig is fictional, it was based on Urquhart Castle. The author has skilfully drawn an impressive character—for it truly has a presence with a voice. It is here where past flows beautifully into the present providing a smooth weave of tales and how each affects the other. The Loch, too, has an epic part in the romance and re-joining of lost souls.
The Lady of the Loch is without question one the most intriguing and beautiful stories I have ever read: well-composed and unforgettable. I was transfixed, charmed and wooed by the mystery, magic and wonder of this Scottish setting (and the cover!) and felt great emotions for the characters in both timelines. There is a welcomed joy and release in the gorgeous ending where past and present come together seamlessly. I absolutely loved this novel and highly recommend it! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Many thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
January 27, 2023
My thoughts:
This story is told over dual timelines based in Scotland in the 1300’s and in the present day. In the present day we follow twin sisters Leah and Zoe. Leah is having a difficult time and she needs a change so when a caretaker position opens in a old remote castle that has rumors of being haunted Leah talks her sister into coming with her. After living there they start hearing and seeing things they couldn’t explain that’s where the dual timelines intertwine. This story has romance, heartbreak, betrayal And sadness.
This story is told over dual timelines based in Scotland in the 1300’s and in the present day. In the present day we follow twin sisters Leah and Zoe. Leah is having a difficult time and she needs a change so when a caretaker position opens in a old remote castle that has rumors of being haunted Leah talks her sister into coming with her. After living there they start hearing and seeing things they couldn’t explain that’s where the dual timelines intertwine. This story has romance, heartbreak, betrayal And sadness.
November 21, 2025
3.75 🌟
February 26, 2023
A wonderful timeslip story full of interesting characters and a tale of love and loyalty. As with most timeslip/ dual timeline stories I found the historical element fascinating and thought that Agnes’ story was the most engaging and I loved reading about her life. The hardships and frailty of life was vividly described alongside the warmth and compassion of Agnes’ friends. Uncovering the truth as Leah and Zoe make the castle their home takes them on an emotional journey and I loved their empathy with the castle and it’s history.
April 4, 2023
It was the cover that drew me in, dreamy.
I really enjoyed this book, though I'm not usually a fan of dual timelines that are so far separated from each other. I also enjoyed the supernatural element, which is not normally my thing either.
The setting was so beautifully described.
The only thing keeping me from 5 stars was the speed of the relationships in the modern time line, which seemed to be Zoe and Leah's main focus.
It didn't bother me so much in the historical timeline as I think love really was fast back then. You never really knew how long you might live, and with the dangers of the English army upon her, Agnes snatched love with both hands.
Effie annoyed me, but that was obviously the point. Agnes was much more patient with her than I would have been. I would have liked to know where Effie ended up though.
I really enjoyed this book, though I'm not usually a fan of dual timelines that are so far separated from each other. I also enjoyed the supernatural element, which is not normally my thing either.
The setting was so beautifully described.
The only thing keeping me from 5 stars was the speed of the relationships in the modern time line, which seemed to be Zoe and Leah's main focus.
It didn't bother me so much in the historical timeline as I think love really was fast back then. You never really knew how long you might live, and with the dangers of the English army upon her, Agnes snatched love with both hands.
Effie annoyed me, but that was obviously the point. Agnes was much more patient with her than I would have been. I would have liked to know where Effie ended up though.
January 24, 2024
4.5⭐️
The tale of Agnes swept me away, immersing me in the historical setting. While the modern storyline with the sisters didn't quite capture my enthusiasm, the overall experience made it a fantastic read.
The tale of Agnes swept me away, immersing me in the historical setting. While the modern storyline with the sisters didn't quite capture my enthusiasm, the overall experience made it a fantastic read.
July 10, 2025
I had a really hard time staying focused with this book. It felt repetitive and overly descriptive to me. It wasn’t bad, but just not for me.
June 21, 2025
It was the perfect historical, scottish, ghost novel I needed. With a dual timeline, following a young Scottish servant, Agnes, as she escaped the English army storming the castle where she lived in the 1300s, and twins Zoe and Leah in the present, I was gripped instantly and swept away in this mysterious, dark Scottish castle. It was everything I needed, it was beautiful and haunting, and overall I had such a great time with this novel. Will definitely read more from this author!
February 23, 2023
A beautiful story to match the gorgeous cover. A dual timeline novel set in 14th century Scotland and present day.
This novel has everything you would want from a dual timeline novel.
With the past we are taken back to the struggles Scotland and Robert the Bruce had with Longshanks and the English army, and Agnes a kitchen maid
Modern day and we are at Ravenscraig Castle where Leah and her sister Zoe have become caretakers.
I loved this book, both timelines had strong stories and was quite heartbreaking at times. The writing was very descriptive and evocative.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy which I am more than happy to leave a review for without obligation.
This novel has everything you would want from a dual timeline novel.
With the past we are taken back to the struggles Scotland and Robert the Bruce had with Longshanks and the English army, and Agnes a kitchen maid
Modern day and we are at Ravenscraig Castle where Leah and her sister Zoe have become caretakers.
I loved this book, both timelines had strong stories and was quite heartbreaking at times. The writing was very descriptive and evocative.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy which I am more than happy to leave a review for without obligation.
May 22, 2023
This book was okay. I felt it was very predictable and Disney like.
February 23, 2023
The historical content in this book is stunning – the Scottish Highlands during the period leading up to the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, as the English sought to overthrow King Robert de Brus. As the author describes it in her note, the backdrop is treachery, bloodshed and battles – but the story focuses on Agnes Fitzgerald, a servant who escapes from the bloody siege of Kildrummy Castle and flees to the castle of Ravenscraig in Rosemuir (the product of the author’s imagination, but based on Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness).
The way the author recreates day-to-day life within the castle’s walls – and particularly in the kitchens where Agnes works – is simply wonderful, replete with the smells of roasting barley, baking bread and spitting boars (on special occasions…), a life of real hardship with a heavy workload, and the constant threat of the English forces’ approach. At first, this is a story of survival – Agnes and her sister Effie initially taken in under false pretences, but finding friends and allies in their new home – but it turns into a particularly tender and convincing romance when Agnes falls in love with warrior Cam Buchanan, always living with the threat of possible betrayal.
Then there’s the present day story – Leah, accompanied by twin sister Zoe, has the opportunity for a much-needed fresh start, returning to an area she’s always loved, when she takes on the job of caretaker at Ravenscraig Castle. While they’re comfortable enough warmed by the fires in their flat within the castle walls, there’s an iciness in the air around the castle’s interior – and it soon becomes clear that there’s a restless presence, and a reason why previous caretakers have never stayed very long.
And then there’s the southwest wing across the courtyard, its chapel tended by the mysterious Mirren Logan – but when it looks like the perfect place to develop for weddings, they might just choose not to heed the warnings to give it a wide berth, whatever the possible consequences. The contemporary storyline develops into a romance too – actually more than one – but it was the story behind the supernatural touches that kept the book’s pages turning ever faster. I’ve mentioned before, I know, that I’m a bit of a wuss when it comes to the supernatural – but this one wasn’t too terrifying, just a little unsettling with a few well-crafted edge-of-the-seat moments.
The prologue – an excellent piece of writing, which I re-read at the end – gives a strong flavour of how the story will develop, but I still hoped beyond measure that Agnes might get her happy ending. And in some ways, I guess… well, see what you think. It’s unusual for me, but I will admit that I was rather more caught up by the historical thread than the contemporary one – but the crossovers (this isn’t a time slip in the true sense, but there are really clever resonances between past and present) are exceptionally well handled. And my goodness, what an emotional story – and one I really lived rather than simply read because of the strength of the author’s writing, backed up with a depth of research that really brings the lawless 1300s in the Highlands vividly to life.
Seven hundred years of heartbreak and betrayal – and a book I thoroughly enjoyed, and would highly recommend to others. I can’t wait to see where Elena Collins’ imagination will take her next!
The way the author recreates day-to-day life within the castle’s walls – and particularly in the kitchens where Agnes works – is simply wonderful, replete with the smells of roasting barley, baking bread and spitting boars (on special occasions…), a life of real hardship with a heavy workload, and the constant threat of the English forces’ approach. At first, this is a story of survival – Agnes and her sister Effie initially taken in under false pretences, but finding friends and allies in their new home – but it turns into a particularly tender and convincing romance when Agnes falls in love with warrior Cam Buchanan, always living with the threat of possible betrayal.
Then there’s the present day story – Leah, accompanied by twin sister Zoe, has the opportunity for a much-needed fresh start, returning to an area she’s always loved, when she takes on the job of caretaker at Ravenscraig Castle. While they’re comfortable enough warmed by the fires in their flat within the castle walls, there’s an iciness in the air around the castle’s interior – and it soon becomes clear that there’s a restless presence, and a reason why previous caretakers have never stayed very long.
And then there’s the southwest wing across the courtyard, its chapel tended by the mysterious Mirren Logan – but when it looks like the perfect place to develop for weddings, they might just choose not to heed the warnings to give it a wide berth, whatever the possible consequences. The contemporary storyline develops into a romance too – actually more than one – but it was the story behind the supernatural touches that kept the book’s pages turning ever faster. I’ve mentioned before, I know, that I’m a bit of a wuss when it comes to the supernatural – but this one wasn’t too terrifying, just a little unsettling with a few well-crafted edge-of-the-seat moments.
The prologue – an excellent piece of writing, which I re-read at the end – gives a strong flavour of how the story will develop, but I still hoped beyond measure that Agnes might get her happy ending. And in some ways, I guess… well, see what you think. It’s unusual for me, but I will admit that I was rather more caught up by the historical thread than the contemporary one – but the crossovers (this isn’t a time slip in the true sense, but there are really clever resonances between past and present) are exceptionally well handled. And my goodness, what an emotional story – and one I really lived rather than simply read because of the strength of the author’s writing, backed up with a depth of research that really brings the lawless 1300s in the Highlands vividly to life.
Seven hundred years of heartbreak and betrayal – and a book I thoroughly enjoyed, and would highly recommend to others. I can’t wait to see where Elena Collins’ imagination will take her next!
February 25, 2023
Zoe’s twin sister Leah finds a new job as a caretaker and tour guide at Ravenscraig Castle in Scotland after a tough period. She isn’t allowed to live there alone and Zoe agrees to go with her. Once there, Leah immediately feels at home, but Zoe senses a strange chill in the castle and sees a young woman appear at night. In the 13th century, kitchen maids Agnes and Effie must flee their home when Robert De Bruce wages war against the English king Edward I. They seek refuge in Ravenscraig, only to find that rumours of war are never far.
‘The lady of the loch‘ is a dual timeline story set in the Scottish Highlands. It’s very modernly written (that annoyed me a bit at first) and the historical part is set during’s Robert De Bruce’s reign. His wife Elizabeth De Burgh and daughter Marjorie flee to Kildrummy Castle where Agnes and Effie work in the kitchen. When they are betrayed, Elizabeth and Marjorie are taken prisoner and Agnes and Effie barely escape alive. Their path takes them to Ravenscraig (which is a fictional place) where the owners are also loyal to De Bruce.
Most of the time I do enjoy the historical timeline more, but this time that wasn’t the case. It took me a long time to get to know Agnes and to sympathize with her. I preferred the modern perspective of Zoe and Leah. They live in a flat in Birmingham, only Leah feels very unhappy. When she gets the job at Ravenscraig she hopes for a new start. But the place seems haunted.
Yes, this is also a little ghost story. Apart from that there are a lot of fast-paced romances of people falling in love instantly (a pet peeve of mine). And yet I quite enjoyed reading this novel, especially the second half of the book is much stronger. Maybe Collins felt a bit lighter than e.g. Gill Paul or Nicola Cornick. But you can compare the style and I’m curious enough to try one of next novels.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Zoe's tweelingzus Leah vindt na een stevige dip een nieuwe job als gids in het Schotse kasteel Ravenscraig. Maar ze mag er niet alleen gaan wonen en dus gaat Zoe mee. Eens ze daar zijn voelt Leah zich meteen thuis, maar Zoe voelt een vreemde kilte in het kasteel en ziet s nachts een jonge vrouw verschijnen. In de 13de eeuw moeten de dienstmeisjes Agnes en Effie op de vlucht slaan wanneer Robert De Bruce een oorlog voert tegen de Engelse koning Edward I. Ze zoeken hun toevlucht in Ravenscraig.
Dit is een verhaal met twee tijdslijnen die zich afspelen in de Schotse hooglanden. Het is heel modern geschreven (daar ergerde ik me eerst wat aan) en de historische setting gaat over de tijd van Robert De Bruce. Toch had ik een voorkeur voor het moderne perspectief van Zoë en Leah. Het duurde lang voordat ik een klik had met Agnes.
Er zit een geest in dit verhaal en heel wat snelle romances van mensen die op slag verliefd worden (een pet peeve van mij). Het tempo ligt hoog. En toch heb ik dit best graag gelezen, zeker de tweede helft van het boek vond ik veel sterker.
Misschien wat lichter dan bv. Gill Paul of Nicola Cornick. Maar wel wat in dezelfde stijl.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
‘The lady of the loch‘ is a dual timeline story set in the Scottish Highlands. It’s very modernly written (that annoyed me a bit at first) and the historical part is set during’s Robert De Bruce’s reign. His wife Elizabeth De Burgh and daughter Marjorie flee to Kildrummy Castle where Agnes and Effie work in the kitchen. When they are betrayed, Elizabeth and Marjorie are taken prisoner and Agnes and Effie barely escape alive. Their path takes them to Ravenscraig (which is a fictional place) where the owners are also loyal to De Bruce.
Most of the time I do enjoy the historical timeline more, but this time that wasn’t the case. It took me a long time to get to know Agnes and to sympathize with her. I preferred the modern perspective of Zoe and Leah. They live in a flat in Birmingham, only Leah feels very unhappy. When she gets the job at Ravenscraig she hopes for a new start. But the place seems haunted.
Yes, this is also a little ghost story. Apart from that there are a lot of fast-paced romances of people falling in love instantly (a pet peeve of mine). And yet I quite enjoyed reading this novel, especially the second half of the book is much stronger. Maybe Collins felt a bit lighter than e.g. Gill Paul or Nicola Cornick. But you can compare the style and I’m curious enough to try one of next novels.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Zoe's tweelingzus Leah vindt na een stevige dip een nieuwe job als gids in het Schotse kasteel Ravenscraig. Maar ze mag er niet alleen gaan wonen en dus gaat Zoe mee. Eens ze daar zijn voelt Leah zich meteen thuis, maar Zoe voelt een vreemde kilte in het kasteel en ziet s nachts een jonge vrouw verschijnen. In de 13de eeuw moeten de dienstmeisjes Agnes en Effie op de vlucht slaan wanneer Robert De Bruce een oorlog voert tegen de Engelse koning Edward I. Ze zoeken hun toevlucht in Ravenscraig.
Dit is een verhaal met twee tijdslijnen die zich afspelen in de Schotse hooglanden. Het is heel modern geschreven (daar ergerde ik me eerst wat aan) en de historische setting gaat over de tijd van Robert De Bruce. Toch had ik een voorkeur voor het moderne perspectief van Zoë en Leah. Het duurde lang voordat ik een klik had met Agnes.
Er zit een geest in dit verhaal en heel wat snelle romances van mensen die op slag verliefd worden (een pet peeve van mij). Het tempo ligt hoog. En toch heb ik dit best graag gelezen, zeker de tweede helft van het boek vond ik veel sterker.
Misschien wat lichter dan bv. Gill Paul of Nicola Cornick. Maar wel wat in dezelfde stijl.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
February 20, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced reader copy of 'The Lady of the Loch' by Elena Collins.
For me this book sits in the category of cosy reads for a dreary day when you would rather stay indoors. As a Scottish native I appreciated the authors devotion to geographical accuracy and her lyrical description of my beautiful homeland.
Review contains spoilers.
'The Lady of the Loch' is dual narrative story set during the early 1300s and the present day in the Highlands of Scotland. In present times we find twins Zoe and Leah. Zoe has her life on track and she loves her life in Birmingham but Leah is troubled, she has suffered several blows professionally and in her love life and desperately needs a new challenge. Applying for the job of caretaker at a remote castle in the Highlands of Scotland, Leah finds her feet and thrives in her new environment but having been dragged along Zoe struggles with the cold and imposing nature of her new surroundings. Over the course of three months the sisters discover more about the castle, rekindle their love of Scotland, and (somewhat predictably) they both find the chance of love where they least expected it.
In the 1300s the story centres around Agnes, a kitchen maid with dreams of a life outside her circumstances. Having survived an attack by the English on Kildrummy castle, Agnes and her half sister Effie flee to Ravenscraig castle near Inverness where they are taken in and put to work. One morning Agnes comes across a handsome, rugged Scottish warrior swimming naked in the Loch and from that moment she is smitten with him. Agnes's story is full of love, passion, heartache and sadness. Her character shines through and her story will pull on your heartstrings.
A cosy read for a dreich (dull/gloomy) day. Ghostly, heartfelt, and unashamedly romantic. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this novel, thanks again to the publisher and NetGalley.
For me this book sits in the category of cosy reads for a dreary day when you would rather stay indoors. As a Scottish native I appreciated the authors devotion to geographical accuracy and her lyrical description of my beautiful homeland.
Review contains spoilers.
'The Lady of the Loch' is dual narrative story set during the early 1300s and the present day in the Highlands of Scotland. In present times we find twins Zoe and Leah. Zoe has her life on track and she loves her life in Birmingham but Leah is troubled, she has suffered several blows professionally and in her love life and desperately needs a new challenge. Applying for the job of caretaker at a remote castle in the Highlands of Scotland, Leah finds her feet and thrives in her new environment but having been dragged along Zoe struggles with the cold and imposing nature of her new surroundings. Over the course of three months the sisters discover more about the castle, rekindle their love of Scotland, and (somewhat predictably) they both find the chance of love where they least expected it.
In the 1300s the story centres around Agnes, a kitchen maid with dreams of a life outside her circumstances. Having survived an attack by the English on Kildrummy castle, Agnes and her half sister Effie flee to Ravenscraig castle near Inverness where they are taken in and put to work. One morning Agnes comes across a handsome, rugged Scottish warrior swimming naked in the Loch and from that moment she is smitten with him. Agnes's story is full of love, passion, heartache and sadness. Her character shines through and her story will pull on your heartstrings.
A cosy read for a dreich (dull/gloomy) day. Ghostly, heartfelt, and unashamedly romantic. I'm glad I had the opportunity to read this novel, thanks again to the publisher and NetGalley.
April 27, 2023
A dual romance timeline set in Scotland and, of course, has a castle setting!
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Honestly, if the story is set in Scotland and doesn’t take place in a castle- I don’t want it!
I loved this story and funnily enough, I loved the past timeline even more than the current, which doesn’t happen to me often.
I don’t want to include any spoilers, but let’s just say, there is heartbreak somewhere in this story. And yes, I did tear up!
This was an easy 4 star read for me and almost a 5 star, there were just a couple of things about the characters in the current timeline that I didn’t enjoy which stepped me away from that full 5 star review. So I’ll settle at a 4.5
I loved Elena Collins first book, The Witch’s Tree, so much and I’m happy to say that her second book sucked me right into the story just as much as the first. If you love dual historical fiction with some romance elements, I definitely recommend her books!
Looking forward to her next release!
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Honestly, if the story is set in Scotland and doesn’t take place in a castle- I don’t want it!
I loved this story and funnily enough, I loved the past timeline even more than the current, which doesn’t happen to me often.
I don’t want to include any spoilers, but let’s just say, there is heartbreak somewhere in this story. And yes, I did tear up!
This was an easy 4 star read for me and almost a 5 star, there were just a couple of things about the characters in the current timeline that I didn’t enjoy which stepped me away from that full 5 star review. So I’ll settle at a 4.5
I loved Elena Collins first book, The Witch’s Tree, so much and I’m happy to say that her second book sucked me right into the story just as much as the first. If you love dual historical fiction with some romance elements, I definitely recommend her books!
Looking forward to her next release!
January 22, 2025
Uma narrativa com dois períodos, duas histórias que se interligam pelo espaço e personagens que farão todo para encontrar o seu propósito. Uma história passada na Escócia do século XIV que narra a história de Agnes e o seu amor pelo guerreiro Cam que luta ao lado de Robert de Brus. A história passada no presente é feita por duas irmãs, a Zoe a a Leah que partem para Escócia para um novo começo e tem desvendar o um mistério que reside no castelo onde ficam hospedadas.
Normalmente quando leio um livro passado em dois tempos a parte no passado costuma captar mais a minha atenção, mas neste caso gostei mais de acompanhar mais as duas irmãs desvendando o castelo e encontrando os seus rumos. Agnes não deixa de ser uma personagem interessante, determinada que não merecia aquela traição. Mas a sua história com Cam não me convenceu completamente, pois achei demasiado á primeira vista.
Normalmente quando leio um livro passado em dois tempos a parte no passado costuma captar mais a minha atenção, mas neste caso gostei mais de acompanhar mais as duas irmãs desvendando o castelo e encontrando os seus rumos. Agnes não deixa de ser uma personagem interessante, determinada que não merecia aquela traição. Mas a sua história com Cam não me convenceu completamente, pois achei demasiado á primeira vista.
June 2, 2023
3.5 stars. Fiction that goes back & forth in time that includes a 13th Century Scottish castle and romance in two eras. It was a decent read. I was more interested in the 13th century characters than the modern day.
October 27, 2025
I truly loved everything about this! The fact that it’s set in the Highlands, the dual timeline and that it had just the right amount of romance! It was also a bit spooky. I’m so happy I found this book, it’s a gem. I shed tears at the end.
May 10, 2023
Loved reading this set in Scotland in the 1300s
Agnes was a true Scot
With a fire in her soul & a mouth she couldn't control
She had a man who loved her dearly & a sister who'd betray her
Agnes was a true Scot
With a fire in her soul & a mouth she couldn't control
She had a man who loved her dearly & a sister who'd betray her
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews