“There once was a princess who lived in a faraway land called St. Biel. Her home was a magnificent white castle high on the top of a mountain…” New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood writes picturesque, medieval historical romance that captures readers’ loyalties and imaginations novel after novel. She paints the Scottish Highlands with vivid details of green glens, sweeping vistas, and mighty chieftains and his warriors slaughtering enemies in ferocious battles --- warriors who look like they’d been “fashioned by a god of ancient times.” Garwood is a master of addictive fantasy, and SHADOW MUSIC is irresistible.

Amidst the stark realities of medieval times, there lives the daughter of Lady Genevieve, Princess Gabrielle, who grows up into the lovely Lady Gabrielle, a prized beauty fought over by evil Barons for her dowry, the coveted Finney’s Flat piece of land and the secret treasure of St. Biel. Not a shrinking violet kind of princess, Gabrielle can ride as well as any man, shoot a bow and arrow with flawless accuracy and speak four languages. She doesn’t lack for anything --- except a husband to protect her.

King John decrees that Gabrielle is to marry Laird Monroe, but before the ceremony takes place, Gabrielle is exiled and her future is abruptly redirected into the arms of the most feared warrior in the Scottish Highlands, Laird Colm MacHugh. English brides were not exactly sought after in medieval times by Scottish lairds, but passion and love wins over heritage every time --- this is part of the outline for a searing historical romance novel. Gabrielle is a “passionate and spirited, beautiful and innocent lady,” and Colm’s keep welcomes her with cheers and shouts of joy.

Colm possesses “Herculean strength,” wielding a mighty sword, swift and invincible in battle, and dismay that he is so besotted with Gabrielle. But even a warrior cannot deny fantasy and temptation: “…dear God, that mouth could give any man fantasies.” Inside this staunch warrior is a man with “tenderness in his kiss.” Strong male characters who succumb to passions keep female readers turning the pages with keen anticipation.

The raw power of Colm tempts the innocent Gabrielle. “He looked strong enough to lift a horse and not break a sweat… His strength somehow made her feel secure.” Colm’s kisses make Gabrielle “come alive.” One kiss and their fates are sealed --- Colm will marry Gabrielle to protect her honor and pay a debt to his best friend Laird Brodick Buchanan.

The legendary treasure of gold makes Gabrielle a target for kidnapping, but her loyal guards and Colm’s army of men are on constant alert and ready for war, defeating enemies swiftly. Garwood combines temptation, beauty, honor, strength and power to create believable fantasy. The pages of SHADOW MUSIC come alive with passion and promise, and an unforgettable gift from warrior to woman --- words of love.