There's a legend about a Scots piper who haunts Duntrune Castle. He dared to warn the returning Irish MacColla of a trap, and as punishment, his hands were chopped off and he bled to death. Now he can be heard playing his pipes every day at dawn and dusk.
When the piper's bones are found beneath the floor tiles in the castle, Tafaline MacLeod is sent in to photograph them. From the time she steps into the castle, she feels as if someone is waiting for her. After some research, and frequently being asked "Are you coming, lass?", Taffy is about to attempt something daring, to save the life of a ghost.
Malcolm MacIntyre knows his time on earth is coming to a close. The young piper is drawn to the vision of a golden haired wraith. Somehow, she finds him and they flee from the murderous Campbells. This young woman appears for a special reason and it takes a bit of time to figure out what it is. Can they escape the Campbells and find a safe haven?
Melanie Jackson has created a 'fantastical' tale based on the Scottish legend of the murdered piper. Fairies and magic play an important part in this story, as Malcolm and Taffy try to flee the Campbells. Much of the story takes place at night, when magic is strongest. At times you can't be sure if the stillfolk are friend or foe.. They definitely have their own agenda in bringing these two people together.
Night Visitor is rich in description and character depth, as it begins with a legend and continues to build and create a wonderful romance. You want to believe in the existence of fairies, and their world, and in Thomas Rhymer, who also makes an appearance. A bit of Gaelic is used in the dialogue to enhance the story's Celtic flavor. Time moves at two different, but simultaneous paces to bring this story to it's conclusion.
Welcome the Night Visitor and let the magic of romance transport you to another time.