Great storyline, disapointing book!, May 15, 2009


As High as the Heavens has an amazing storyline:
Heather Gordon is a woman of high upbringing and her father asks a serious task of her: to teach a highlander how to be a gentleman. Heather is a bit mortified at first, especially because the highlander is actually the twin brother of the wealthy Collin. Heather eventually agrees to do what her father asks, but only because it is part of a plot to save Queen Mary who is being held in a tower. When Heather travels to the highlands everything turns out different than planned and Heather must spend much time with the highlander she thinks is rude, and unmannered. As the 3 months that Heather as left to change the highlander goes by, she begins to fall in love despite her father's hatred of him and her being betrothed to another man. Will love conquer all? Or will Heather's father and betrothed get in the way?

I enjoyed the storyline to this book, but I thought it could have been written much better. I am a huge fan of Kathleen Morgan's books and some of her other books are much better than this. Although Kathlen Morgan tried to re-sell this book as a Christian novel, there was very little mentioned of Christ or being saved. I also felt like the romance between Heather and Duncan took over the story and instead of helping along the plotline. I would have enjoyed more about the daring rescue of Queen Mary as well instead of the rushed ending. Altogether this would have been a better book if she had gone back and re-did some parts. It's a great start for a storyline though and an interesting read. ( )

NCLA Review - A previous version of this novel was published in 1998 under the title: The Heather and the Thistle. When her father devises a plan to free Mary, Queen of Scots, Heather Graham does not foresee being the key to its success. Yet, loyalty to her Queen finds Heather devoting her time to teaching a Highlander, Duncan Armstrong, the behavior of an English fop. Heather’s initial loathing for Duncan turns to a respect and then blossoming love. As danger looms nearer, Heather and Duncan realize how fragile love can be. Kathleen Morgan has crafted fiery and passionate characters willing to fight for what they believe in even when the odds are against them. This well-written story will certainly captivate the reader’s attention. The author’s careful research into this period of Scottish history is clearly evident throughout this historical novel. Rating: 4—MF ( )