The Maiden's Bequest, the Minister's Restoration, the Laird's Inheritance: Three Novels in One Volume

by George MacDonald

Three Powerful Novels From the Scottish Writer Whom C. S. Lewis Called His "Master" The Maiden's Bequest Orphaned as a child, Annie Anderson's special friendship with Alec Forbes is a source of strength and security that sees them both through many difficulties in their nineteenth-century Scotland. But when they eventually are separated when Alec leaves to study medicine at the university, he must face the uncertainty of spiritual yearnings and the heart-tugging agony of first loves. How will he come to recognize that peace and tranquility, hallmarks of Annie's life, come from within? The Minister's Restoration James Blatherwick is a young minister wrestling with the truth of the gospel and the nature of his own character. He carries with him a dark secret that seems destined to rise again and destroy his dreams. Despite his best attempts, James finds there is no way around God's purifying fire. How can he know that the painful unveiling of the truth is his only hope? The Laird's Inheritance Cosmo Warlock is the last in a long line of landowning "lairds" of the Castle Warlock. Though his family was once wealthy, Cosmo grows up in poverty as piece after piece of the laird's land is sold or mortgaged away to keep the creditors at bay. A mysterious death, legends surrounding the castle, a puzzling old poem, and unexpected romance combine in this unforgettable story. Are love and trust strong enough to withstand the forces

Genres: Fiction, Christian Fiction

640 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 1998

About the author

George MacDonald was a Scottish author, poet and Christian Congregational minister. He became a pioneering figure in the field of modern fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow-writer Lewis Carroll. In addition to his fairy tales, MacDonald wrote several works of Christian theology, including several collections of sermons.

Reviews

[Ron · Rating 4 out of 5]

On the second reading, I bumped the rating up to four stars. Bequest and Inheritance are among MacDonald's best novels. While modern readers may find them YA, readers of his made made them best sellers. Restoration is one of MacDonald's last novels and not up to his usual storytelling. All involve young Socts growing up with lots of memorable characters and Scottish dialect. Villains are redeemed or get their just desserts; true love wins out; nobody sees what's coming, etc., as you might expect of a popular Romantic era novel.

Cover Art Quibble: While the three-in-one book is labeled "A Scottish Collection", the ruin pictured on the cover is Corfe Castle in southern England. Scotland has no shortage a castles, both intact and in ruins. You'd think the publisher could have found something farther north.

The diagram of Castle Warlock has several errors.

[Julie Hederstedt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am ranking this rather low. The old Scottish English stumped me. It was worth it but difficult.

[Analie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always come away from MacDonald's books feeling more in awe of God. It is amazing what his fiction can do! This edition is a bit thick and heavy since it is three books in one. Personally, I find the individual books easier to manage, but I did like the editor's notes introducing each one. My favorite story is the last: The Laird's Inheritance. Its lessons about surrendering all to God and finding peace in Him are deep and they are beautiful.

[Teshamae]

i just have the single book: the Minister's Restoration

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely want to read these stories again. Beautiful messages.