This World War II novel is set in Scotland, not a setting for this time period that I have often encountered in my reading. It was interesting to see the varied reaction of the Scots to serving in the British military, some seeing it as their duty, others as a threat to their longed for independence. Of special interest in this novel is the work of MI5's Double Cross program, turning spies with German loyalties into double agents. Cilla van der Zee's attempt to become a spy for the Abwehr as a ruse to leave behind the difficulties she was experiencing working in the Dutch resistance allowed her to use her many skills and talents within the Double Cross program, but made it difficult for her to be accepted as honest and trustworthy among those with whom she worked. Outgoing and social by nature, her situation forced her to become more introspective and to consider her relationship with God and His hand in her life.
Lieutenant Lachlan Mackenzie was grateful for another opportunity, however brief, to serve in the Royal Navy after being expelled a few months shy of graduating from the Royal Navy College. He struggled with forgiving his younger brother for his role in that expulsion. His nature led him to strictly adhere to rules and regulations, making if difficult to understand or forgive either his brother or Miss van der Zee with whom he was coerced to work.
I give this novel five stars for its original plot, wonderful characters, and the manner in which the author brings the setting to life. I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Midnight on the Scottish Shore from Revell via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
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