Prince Charlie’s Witch

An altered view of history sees Bonnie Prince Charles and his followers escape the military disaster in which hundreds of men were slain by English troops at Culloden Moor, Scotland in 1746. Jackie Rose’s chance to change history will leave readers pondering what could have happened if Scotland had remained free from England’s harsh rule.

The tale begins prior to Prince Charles ill-fated decision to return to Scotland. As Prince Charles is consulting with his military advisors from England, Ireland and Scotland, a young girl is ushered in. She is exhausted and half frozen, having ridden in a desperate hurry for many miles. When Miss Mary Marvellous can finally speak, she urges the Prince and his men to turn back to England post-haste, not proceed to Culloden Moor. Her case is so urgent and so well prepared that Bonnie Prince Charles takes her advice to heart. A pistol convinces the other men to go along with her for now. As they travel, it is apparent that they will meet no resistance, it seems that the German, “George the Usurper” has returned to Hanover just as Mary had said.

Mary’s insight is mystifying, there is no plausible explanation as to how a young woman, fresh from the American colonies would have this information. Prince Charles knows that Mary has served him well and is quite willing to overlook this apparent sorcery. Two of his aides also believe that she may be a witch and are determined to marry her for their own gain. Ranald McGregor, a Scottish laird, seems not to notice Mary until the Irish Captain Francis O’Neill tries to stake a claim. Initially Ranald is quite civil, so Mary is shocked and uncertain when the “Highland Savage” emerges to drag her off to his lair. Ceremonies are not necessary under Scottish law, once the bedding has taken place, a marriage is declared.

Miss Mary Marvellous has no idea of the peril that she has placed herself in. Reading history books is nothing like reliving a moment in time. As she is to learn the hard way, the position of women in society during this time was quite a tenuous one. The strong characters of the Irish and Scottish advisors are expertly revealed to the reader. Emotions are bought to the fore; these men are fighting a Prince for the lives of their people and freedom from English rule. Jackie Rose gives quite a substantial introduction to the people, political climate and historical setting. This is necessary to understand the actions of many of the characters. Sexual dalliances are an excellent way to win useful friendships or gain the attention of the heir, and these are fairly saucy. The heir’s own fondness for actresses and role-playing is also played out in many erotic bedroom scenarios.

The author has a surprise or two up her sleeve and this reader was not expecting any of the events leading up to the conclusion. Prince Charlie’s Witch is not a light-hearted book, but one that historical fans will enjoy because of its unusual alternate view.

Reviewed by: Naomi