Rob Roy - Book 22, 52 in 52

Rob Roy by Sir Walter Scott is a fascinating and complex classic set in the 18th century England and Scotland.  Against this vivid historic backdrop, Frank Osbaldistone, the son of a merchant, falls out of favor with his father and is sent to his uncle's home on the border of Scotland.  Here he encounters the boisterous company of his uncle and 3 older sons, the intriguing beauty and mystery of the young Diana Vernon, and the cunning and ill wishes of his final cousin Rashleigh.  After a time, Frank receives a letter from his father's partner entreating him to go at once to Scotland to find Rashleigh, who has vanished with a large number of the firm's assets during the absence of his father and left the firm in dire straits.  Diana entrusts him with a letter with which he might receive some assistance in the recovery of the assets if his own efforts are insufficient for the available time.  This brings him back into contact with the enigmatic outlaw Rob Roy, who bids him to come up into the Highlands to meet with him concerning the matter and promises to render him what aid he is able.  Several chance twists of fate intercede in these plans to produce an engrossing tale of adventure and intrigue.

Jessie and I both struggled a bit with all the Scottish dialect written in the dialogue of the book making it a very slow read.  The Signet Classic version that I read did contain a glossary for the more difficult terms, which was very helpful.  Despite the struggle, I thoroughly enjoyed the story; and the richness of detail into the sights, struggles, and lives of the Scottish Highlands of the times.  Overall, it was well worth the effort, and I look forward to reading it again with my other children.