Molly Cockburn was delivered to her bridegroom bound and gagged. When the brutal man she was forced to wed leaves her alone for a few minutes before the consumation, she escapes out a hidden door. Knowing she doesn't have much time, she flees into the forest, hoping to hide away until she can come up with some other options.

Walter Scott is walking about his newly inherited lands mourning the sudden death of his father. He and his dog hear something in the bushes and then his attention is drawn by the party of men who are searching for a missing young woman.

Walter, commonly called Wat, sends them back home before finding Molly and taking her to his home with a promise of safety. The last thing Wat needs is a situation pitting neighbor against neighbor. The political situation is tense with King James still trying to solidify his authority. He has to take up his new duties as laird and his been tasked with finding and capturing a border raider who is all to willing to kill.

Wat and Molly will find themselves being drawn to each other yet resisting that attraction as each is reluctant to get married. Even with the authority of the Church confirming that her marriage is not legal, there are many factors to take into account as the navigate the treacherous times.

Amanda Scott has long been a favorite writer of mine. Her knowledge of historical Scotland is reflected in her writing. Her characters are so true to life the reader is helpless not to root for them as they find their way to true love. Moonlight Raider is an exceptionally entertaining read. I loved the Molly's naivté and her lack of knowledge about what being married meant.