The Lady of Hirta

About the Book: 

The Lady of Hirta by W.C. Mackenzie is an engaging historical novel that offers a fresh and thrilling exploration of 18th-century Scotland through the mysterious story of Lady Rachel Grange.

Readers are immersed in the perspective of Reverend Ferchard Ross, minister of the Kirk of Scotland, as he sets out to uncover the truth behind Lady Rachel’s infamous kidnapping and the events that led her to be imprisoned on the secluded Hirta, the largest island in the St Kilda archipelago. The novel’s rich detail and atmospheric setting brings the isolated island to life, celebrating Scotland’s heritage with authenticity
and reverence.

Fans of historical mysteries, psychological thrillers and tales of complex relationships will find The Lady of Hirta irresistible. The layered characters and morally ambiguous relationships offer a deep, thought-provoking reading experience, appealing to those interested in character-driven narratives that question social norms and justice. Through Ross’ eyes, readers experience the secrets, power struggles and betrayals that define Lady Grange’s life and her tumultuous marriage to Lord Grange.

With vivid landscapes, a carefully crafted plot and the exploration of human complexity, The Lady of Hirta promises to captivate lovers of historical fiction, Scottish culture and anyone seeking an evocative story that lingers long after the final page.

Reviews: 

The events that led to the mysterious kidnapping of Lady Grange are steeped in conspiracy, deception and a marriage that had gone very, very sour… HISTORIC ENVIROMENT SCOTLAND

About the Author:

WILLIAM COOK MACKENZIE (1862–1952) was a distinguished Scottish historian, folklorist and archaeologist, born in Cromarty. Educated at the University of Edinburgh, he taught at Glasgow Academy for 17 years before becoming secretary to the Royal Commission on Ancient and Historical Monuments, a role he held from 1913 to 1935. Following retirement, he served as acting head of the Department of Scottish History at Edinburgh University. A prolific writer, Mackenzie produced editions of Dunbar’s and Barbour’s poems and authored works on Hugh Miller, Flodden, Bannockburn and Arran, leaving a lasting contribution to Scotland’s historical and cultural scholarship.