It was 15th century Scotland. Branwyn, raised as a foundling after her mother's death, lived as an outcast in the village near Castle McDermitt. Born with the gift of Sight and proficient in the healing arts, she was regarded by many of the villagers as a witch. She believed herself to be a peasant and all alone with the exception of her one good friend, Brian Gordon, heir of Castle McDermitt.

Llewellyn, born of royal blood, led a life complicated by the fact that he was born on the wrong side of the blanket. He journeyed to Castle McDermitt where he lived an assumed identity on a covert mission for King James.

Their paths met when, unbeknownst to Branwyn, Llewellyn watched in fascination as she bathed, and he determined that he would have this ethereal beauty as his own if only for a time. Although she resisted his advances, urges that she had never experienced confused her, and she found herself both drawn to and repelled by him and his barbaric ways.

Branwyn was spitefully forced into marriage with Llewellyn by the Widow Gordon, Lady of Castle McDermitt, who informed him that Branwyn was "such a shameful slut, no villager will have her to wife." With this knowledge, and knowing that she could be set aside when he tired of her, Llewellyn forced himself upon her on their wedding night only to discover to his dismay that he was her first. Many circumstances led him to the conclusion that he had married a very extraordinary woman, and he promised to never force himself upon her again. He vowed to win her over--first her body, then her heart. Branwyn felt drawn to him but resisted for she had glimpses into their future and its dangers. Their lives became a delightful battle of wills as secrets were shared and as each discovered feelings for the other.

Branwyn and Llewellyn discovered the extent of their feelings for each other when they both were forced into marriages, by King James, to unknown partners. This trial cemented their relationship and prepared them for the hardships and tests to follow.

EARTHCHILD is a romance overflowing with adventure, deep secrets, intense passions, surprising discoveries, and an unforgettable love. The relationship between Branwyn and her friend Brian adds suspense and spice to the story as Llewellyn battles his jealousy of the two. Brian's true relationship with Branwyn comes as a surprise to both Llewellyn and Branwyn. The developing tension is fun to watch. It is a well written story that challenges the reader to find a good spot to put it down.

Reviewed by: Cindy Murdoch
© June 2004