Rose Lancaster has one dream... to one day see the world. Having been raised in an Abbey since the age of three, her only experience of the world outside the walls has been through the books she has collected. She knows who she really is but she cannot let anyone know the truth. She fears her friends and neighbors would turn their backs on her if they knew.

Ruark Kerr, Lord Roxburghe, is called back to Scotland after a thirteen year absence because his young brother is being held captive and accused of a crime. The warden wants money for his release, money that Ruark does not have. When he is stranded at the Abbey, he has his first encounter with Rose, one that is not going to endear him to her.

When Ruark discovers Rose's secret, he decides to trade her for his brother. He returns to the Abbey and kidnaps her, but he soon discovers that not all plans go as expected when he finds himself drawn to Rose. Can he win her heart and convince her that he is sincere? Can he keep Rose out of the warden's hands and also save his brother?

CLAIMED BY A SCOTTISH LORD is a masterful story of secrets and budding romance. Rose is strong-willed but knows nothing of the world outside of the Abbey. Ruark is well traveled and battle scarred. They are two souls brought together because of one ruthless man. I have always been a fan of Melody Thomas, and am so glad that she continues to write such wonderful stories.