"Conclusion to Highland Lords is best in the series."

Aristocratic and spoiled, Jeanne du Marchand endured the beatings and deprivations from the convent nuns for 10 years. Jeanne's father, furious at her fall from grace, disowns her and banishes her to a small prison within the convent walls. Her unforgivable crime had been falling in love with a Scotsman and becoming pregnant. Told repeatedly of her lover's abandonment, Jeanne develops a strong inner strength, which helps her survive. After the fall of the French aristocracy, Jeanne escapes and makes the perilous journey to Scotland, only to discover her dashing Scotsman.

Douglas MacRae cannot believe his eyes. The once love-of- his-life is working as an impoverished governess. Hatred wells up, as Douglas remembers her betrayal. Discovering Jeanne gone, he is told by her servants of her pregnancy, and her father's wish that she marry an appropriate man after her child's birth. Only Douglas' persistence leads him to his child. Discarded and left to die, Douglas saves his daughter. He's never forgotten Jeanne and wants revenge.

Jeanne blames herself for her child's death, and refuses explanations about her behavior. Douglas desires revenge, but the vulnerability and sadness prevents him from destroying Jeanne. Jeanne opens her heart to passion, but the nuns taught her well. She will never trust another person. Douglas' persistence is needed if truth and forgiveness can bring them together.

Ms. Ranney has left the best for last in this conclusion to her Highland Lord series. A rich and emotional tale, SO IN LOVE is guaranteed to bring forth a few tears. Ms. Ranney's prose is so effective, the reader becomes completely absorbed in the characters' joy and despair.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Posted June 4, 2004