Ransom

Set in the turbulent aftermath of Richard the Lionheart's death, Julie Garwood's "Ransom" plunges readers into medieval Scotland, where lives are upended by King John's ruthless reign. Young Gillian is irrevocably scarred when the power-hungry Baron Alford, in pursuit of a jeweled box, slaughters her father and shatters her family. A decade later, fate thrusts Gillian back into the baron's path. This time, however, she is not alone. With the unlikely aid of two formidable Scottish chieftains and the spirited friendship of Bridgid KirkConnell, Gillian embarks on a perilous quest for justice. Her mission is not only to reclaim her home and family legacy but also to clear her father's tarnished reputation. Amidst the danger and political intrigue, Gillian and Bridgid find themselves entangled with the powerful warriors, discovering that desire can be as potent a weapon as any sword, trust is a fragile commodity, and the greatest risk of all might be surrendering to an unexpected, all-consuming love.