I write contemporary and historical Scottish fiction, often set in the area of Scotland where I live, Aberdeenshire. My historical novels combine little known dark events with romance. There are witches, bears, kidnappers and Romans to be found in them, detailed below. My contemporary writing is a lot naughtier, though still dark and romantic, and coming soon.
I also take a LOT of photos, as is evidenced throughout the site.
Here on the blog, I write about castles, stone circles, living with chronic illness, and writing. See my about page here.
Newsletter
Go here to sign up for occasional emails that always include some exclusive photos and news of my writing and life. They’re a more intimate space than the blog.
Chosen Sisters, Romans and Romance
Set in 1st century Scotland, SISTERS AT THE EDGE OF THE WORLD includes the battle of Mons Graupius between the Romans and the Caledonian tribes. The book features a neurodivergent main character, and some rather complicated romance.
See the press release here
“Ethereal and spellbinding….” Historical Novel Society
Review from Terry Tyler: “It’s a fabulous story, a real page-turner and so well written. It made me think about the passage and circle of time, of the constancy of the land on which we live and the transient nature of human life. Loved it.“
Read the article Roman Aberdeenshire features in author’s new book from Grampian Online.
Witchcraft and a Handsome Laird
Taking place mainly in a fictional castle, THE MERMAID AND THE BEAR blends an often overlooked period of history, the Scottish witchcraft accusations, in particular the 1597 Aberdeen witchcraft panic, with a love story.
See the press release here
“A delight from end to end.” Undiscovered Scotland
From the Press and Journal: New book by Fraserburgh author highlights horrific extent of witch trials in Scotland
Kidnapping, Slavery and Friendship
FIREFLIES AND CHOCOLATE was inspired by the kidnapped children and young people of Aberdeen. The story follows the adventures of Elizabeth Manteith from the castle, and her determined efforts to get back home. There’s love. There’s derring-dos on the high seas… And there’s chocolate!
See the publisher’s Press Release here
“Filled with excitement and suspense…” Historical Novel Society Editor’s Pick
Contemporary Scottish Fiction: Dark Ballet Romance
And coming in 2023, a dark and sexy contemporary romance series, starting with TENDU.
Scotland’s all misty lochs, and magical forests, and perfect boyfriends, right?
The dark of the dungeon soon proves otherwise.
These books are so naughty that I’m worried nobody will be able to look me in the face again after reading them. But not that worried. They’re going to be released anyway 🙂
See the posts A Ballet Novel and a Tale of Publishing Woes and Byronic Heroes and the Bad Boys of Ballet
Further Insight into my Scottish Fiction:
- The Red Well and a Book 7 Years in the Making
- My article Researching Historical Fiction: Immersing Oneself in the Past
- My piece 10 Mystical and Magical Sites in Aberdeenshire on the official tourism site for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
- On Women Writers, Women’s Books: Doctors and Deadlines: Writing with Chronic Illness.
- The post Walking the Witchy Ways of Aberdeen
Updates
If you want to be kept updated about when new books are available, you can sign up for: the mailing list or follow my Amazon author page.
Writer’s Tip Jar
I have just requested that our local library purchase two of your books so they’ll be read on the opposite side of the world.
Thank you so much, Mallee 🙂
Can’t wait to read them and hope you recover soon
Thank you 🙂
Reading the
“Sisters On the Edge” slowly but captivated. Thank you.
Thank you, Julie. That’s good to hear 🙂
You’re amazing, Ailish! Keep it up! 🙂
Thank you so much, Tim 🙂
Just started reading Sisters at the Edge of the World. I was pulled right in, and I’m loving it so far!
Great to know Sheri, thank you 🙂
I’ll be watching for Tendu!
🙂
I’M SO GLAD EVERYONE IS DOING GREAT
Can’t wait for the next book, as always!
Should be a bit quicker this time, as they’re all written, just being edited and proofed 🙂
Great post! Pleasure to meet you Ailish
And you 🙂
enjoy your day
You too!
Glad I was able to find you from Aine’s website when you liked her “Long White Cloud” post.
One of my protagonists becomes Scottish-by-marriage.
Sounds interesting 🙂
Ever since I watched a show about Mary Queen of Scots, I’ve been obsessed with learning about Scotland. So rich with history and beautiful nature. When time allows, I will have to read your books. Thank you for following my blog.
You’re most welcome. I’m fascinated by history too. I hope you enjoy the books 🙂
Thank you so much for sharing unique information in your blog post I really like it.
Glad you like 🙂