What do You think about As High As The Heavens (2008)?
This is a captivating book based upon an attempt to free Mary, Queen of Scots, from captivity in Lochleven Castle. Mary has been forced to abdicate in favor of her young son, and her half-brother now rules as regent. Powerful lords have moved the country to Protestantism, but Mary's Catholic supporters seek to restore her to the throne. The time is January, 1568, and noblewoman, Heather Gordon is enlisted by her father to travel to the Highlands to seek the help of the only man who can get into the castle to rescue the queen. He is the twin of one Colin Stewart, separated as a baby when his father was going into battle and wanted to be sure one of his sons would survive as heir. Colin grew up never knowing he had a brother, as did the brother, thinking he was the son of highlander peasants. Heather must educate this man in the ways of court and nobility, so he can take Colin's place for a rescue planned in May, since Colin has aligned with those currently in power and is on friendly terms with Mary's gaoler.This story is suspenseful from beginning to end. The mystery of children separated at birth and told as adults about their true heritage is emotional to say the least. Characters are bold, believable, and have emotional depth. Not only is this an interesting story, but it is a look at the beauty of Scotland and life of the times told through marvelous descriptive passages. It always amazes me to read how much people were able to accomplish in these long ago times, from traveling through the frigid winter to living off the land in remote, rugged areas. There is just enough Scottish dialogue to make the reader feel you are in Scotland, but not too much to make it difficult to read and enjoy.
—Betty Strohecker
I'm glad I had extra time today because once I got started (again) on this book, I could not put it down. This book embodies every thing I love about the genre. It's fairly well written. The characters (though they're always extremely good-looking but that comes with the territory) are just flawed enough to make them believable and sympathetic. The plot unfolds at a reasonable yet gripping pace.It took me a little while to get into this one, not sure why but once I was in, I was hooked. I loved this book despite all the genre clichés (like the attractiveness of the main characters and the fact that they almost instantly fall in love) and will definitely read it again.
—Jeni Enjaian
I love the setting of the book--the Scottish Highlands--and the fact that the plot was somewhat inspired by a historical event--the attempted rescue of Mary, Queen of the Scots.I enjoyed the read though, at times, the plot was very predictable. The romance between the two main characters, Heather and Duncan, was a mixture of sweetness and annoyance at different times throughout the book (with an over-protective mother to boot).In the end, it is a decent story but it seems to lack spiritual substance. There is mention of Christian beliefs but, to me, it seemed somewhat forced into the scenes.
—Ruth Apollonia
