This verse story stirs the imagination with adventure and romance set in the early Scotland of saints and swordsmen. A young Scottish queen must rule, and find a husband, whilst in imminent peril from a Viking attack. The action ranges from Appin to Dunstaffnage, and crosses with Saint Columba to Iona and Ireland. First published in 1825 by James Hogg, this shortened version improves the pace and readability of the original. Hogg, who visited the location, claimed the tale to be true – handed down in story and song – and many characters are drawn from history. Whatever the truth, standing on the mighty cliff of Dunvalanrigh (Fort of the King) gazing westwards over the magnificent bay of Ardmucknish it is easy to imagine that great deeds once chose this land as their stage. And that some beautiful, royal lady gave birth to a legend whose shadows will cling here for ever.
