This novel was written by Walter Scott in 1819. The plot closely resembles a tragedy that occurred in his own family generations ago. It was a favourite story of his mother's, who got it from his great aunt.
The story starts with Edgar Ravenswood, who's fortune and honor had been swept away when his father was a strong supporter of the dethroned James VII. He inherited his father's hatred of the current owner of their estate Sir William Ashton, and plans revenge. But while plotting, Edgar falls in love with Ashton's daughter Lucy, he renounces all vengeance, and the two become secretly engaged. But Lucy's mother is a proud, haughty, political witch, who tries to force the poor girl into a highly advantageous marriage to the Laird of Bucklaw. Meanwhile Edgar goes to France, and Lucy desperately tries to contact him.
As the hero of the story Edgar was a nice character. He held a deep hatred for the Ashtons, but developed out of righteous anger. He could be kind and cordial, but was also very hot-headed and rash. Caleb, Edgar's servant/butler/housekeeper, was a funny old soul, always finding excuses for the poor food and uncomfortable accommodation of Edgar's current home Wolf's Craig. Sir William Ashton, though supposed to be wicked, was actually a weak man led by the nose by his wife. He actually came to like Edgar, though Ravenswood himself never got so close.
I hated Lady Ashton with all my heart. She come stomping in out of nowhere, took control immediately, and caused havoc in her daughter's life. She, after disastrous consequences, was not even repentant, but remained brutal and hard-hearted to the end.
I would recommend this book to those who like Gothic-style, romantic, tragic, or vengeance novels. It was well written, with each character being as evil or good as he should be. I would give this book overall an 8/10.
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