Books The Border Vixen  by Bertrice Small

The Border Vixen by Bertrice Small is a historical romance set during the border wars in Scotland. The story follows Dugald Kerr, the laird of Brae Aisir, who after losing his male heirs has only one remaining inheritor: his strong-willed and headstrong granddaughter, Margaret "Mad Maggie" Kerr. She has been raised like a boy and is better at running, riding, and fighting than most men. Knowing the interest in his lands, the laird announces that any man who can outrun, outride, and outfight Maggie will win her hand and her inheritance.

Maggie values her freedom and is determined to marry only a man she can respect and who matches her strength. Many men fail Maggie's challenge, including Ewan Hay, whose failure turns him into a bitter and twisted figure. King James V sends his cousin, Fingal Stewart, to marry Maggie to protect the valuable border pass. Fingal and Maggie engage in a fierce contest of wills, with Fingal patiently pursuing her and eventually winning her heart. The story includes passion, political intrigue, and challenges from those who want control of Maggie’s inheritance, including an invading army led by Ewan Hay.