Sara Mackenzie, Secrets of the Highwayman

Secrets of the Highwayman

Sara Mackenzie

Avon, Oct 2006, $5.99

ISBN: 0060795522

He died in 1814 shot down while allegedly trying to rob a coach. Now almost two centuries later, the Sorceress decides Nathan Raven should return to life so that he has an opportunity to right the wrong that his ignoble murder caused to his family. The Sorceress instructs Raven to locate mortal Melanie Jones and persuade her to help him in his cause; no further instruction as to why this woman is provided.

Foyle, Hoddack, and Williams legal firm sends solicitor Melanie Jones to remote Ravenswood in Cornwell to inventory the estate once owned by a notorious highwayman. She arrives late at night because the ever-pragmatic Melanie wants to begin first thing in the morning. However, a large hound reminiscent of Arthur Conan Doyle's canines greets her followed by a strange man who insists he was unfairly accused and murdered in 1814; finally Raven demands she help him. Though trying to initially figure out how to flee the lunatic, practical Mel soon works at Raven's side as she believes him, but the adversary may not just be inhuman but an immortal supervillain.

SECRETS OF THE HIGHWAYMAN is an exciting romantic fantasy with some time travel elements that grip fans from the opening prologue when the enigmatic Sorceress decides for no apparent reason to "awaken" the Raven and never slows down until the return to the tomb where others sleep awaiting their turn to change history. The action never slows down once Raven and the solicitor meet as they fall in love while battling a seemingly invincible opponent. Sub-genre readers will enjoy this thriller, want to obtain the previous Novel (RETURN OF THE HIGHLANDER) if not already read, and look forward to the next entry, PASSIONS OF THE GHOST.

Harriet Klausner