Title: Sleepless in Scotland
Author: Karen Hawkins
First published July 9, 2009
355 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9781416560258 (ISBN10: 1416560254)
Rating: 4.02
Overview
In A Question of Blood, the gripping fifteenth Inspector Rebus novel by Ian Rankin, a former soldier goes on a shooting spree, leaving two teenagers dead. Rebus, who is also an ex-Army officer, is drawn into the investigation despite his own personal issues.
As he delves deeper into the shattered community affected by the tragedy, Rebus becomes fascinated by the killer, only to find himself competing with the Army investigators who are also on the scene. The killer’s past is murky, and Rebus discovers that he had many friends and enemies with secrets and lies to hide.
Meanwhile, Rebus is grappling with his own demons, including a recent hospitalization and a colleague’s death in a house fire. A Question of Blood is a thrilling mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
About the Author
Karen Hawkins, a bestselling author of the New York Times and USA Today, is renowned for her heartwarming, charming, and witty novels. She is a native Southerner and a storyteller at heart, having grown up in the mountains of East Tennessee.
Karen recently relocated to frosty New England with her husband and several foster dogs. The Dove Pond books pay homage to the countless books that have opened up new adventures, places, and discoveries beyond her imagination.
If you want to stay updated on Karen’s bustling schedule, win free books, learn about her upcoming releases, or simply indulge in some online snooping, make sure to follow her at:
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Editoral Review
Sleepless in Scotland by Karen Hawkins is a charming romance novel set in the beautiful, historical land of Scotland. Published on July 9, 2009, the book is a testament to Hawkins’ prowess in the genre of historical romance, and her talent for weaving together historical details and contemporary elements.
The story revolves around Lady Sabrina and Robert, the Earl of Bradford. Lady Sabrina, the youngest of the MacKenzie sisters, has a reputation for being a “spinster” as she has not been able to find the right man to sweep her off her feet.
On the other hand, Robert has just lost his wife, who he had never truly loved. When Lady Sabrina and Robert meet at a party, they are instantly drawn to each other.
However, they come from different worlds, and their pasts may get in the way of their future together. Hawkins’ writing is richly descriptive and immersive.
The Scottish landscapes are vividly painted, and the characters are well-developed, making the reader invest in their stories. The themes of love, loss, and forgiveness are woven throughout the book, adding depth and complexity.
Although the book is a work of fiction, Hawkins beautifully showcases Scottish culture and traditions, bringing to light the country’s rich historical roots. Sleepless in Scotland is set during the time of the Highland Clearances, a period that saw many Highlanders being forced to leave their homes and farms by wealthy landowners.
Hawkins uses this historical context to explore larger themes of social injustice and class divide. These themes are relevant even today, as we find ourselves grappling with similar issues, making the book all the more relatable.
One of the strengths of this book is Hawkins’ attention to detail. The characters’ emotions are well-crafted, and their dialogue is authentic, further grounding the story in reality.
The pacing of the book is apt, with the plot moving forward smoothly and keeping the reader engaged. However, the book is not without its flaws.
The plot, while well-structured, can be somewhat predictable and formulaic. The romance between Lady Sabrina and Robert follows a familiar template, and fans of the genre may find it somewhat unremarkable.
That being said, Sleepless in Scotland is an enjoyable read, and a testament to Hawkins’ skill as a writer. Fans of historical romance will find themselves drawn into the world of Lady Sabrina and Robert, and will appreciate the care that Hawkins has taken in crafting the historical details of the book.
Overall, Sleepless in Scotland is a delightful read, and I would recommend it to fans of the genre. While it may not be a groundbreaking work, it is a well-written, enjoyable romance novel that will transport you to the beautiful land of Scotland.
I would rate Sleepless in Scotland a solid 4 out of 5 stars.