The year is 1744 and the outlawed MacGregor clan is surviving as best it can, just as it has for some fifty years. Thistle is a masked character who helps people in need, while keeping their pride intact. But Thistle's activities are about to end. After rescuing a stranger from attackers, the outlawed clan has the chance for a new future, if they have the courage to accept the opportunity.

Duncan Cameron is grateful to have been rescued from his attackers, and finds he is where he intended. His chieftain has sent him to find his bride in the MacGregor clan, but Duncan is surprised to find his intended is the MacGregor chieftain. Rory MacGregor will go through with the marriage if two conditions are met. One, the marriage is a handfasting, to last a year and a day. The second is abstinence in the marriage. When she leaves the relationship, she doesn't want to be leaving a child behind.

Matters become complicated when Prince Charles Edward arrives to gather the Scots for battle. He's determined to regain the Scottish throne, which his father had failed to do in three previous uprisings against England. Duncan and Rory find themselves in the middle of events which will test their courage and loyalty. Rory's gift of the Two Sights, shows her images of battles to come, and Duncan's fall. Will she lose the man she's come to love, in a battle the Scots can't win?

Steeped in historical detail, Cindy Vallar creates a romance which will be tested time and again by battles both political and personal. Across the Highlands, from Edinburg to Prestonpans, Inverness and all the battles in between, their loyalties will be questioned many times.

The characters are well written and give readers a look at the events which led to Scotland's downfall, under the hands of an unprepared leader. At times, a romantic interlude takes place with background scenery which makes you and the characters forget a war is going on.

Will The Scottish Thistle rise again to help those in need? You'll have to read this intriguing story to find out.