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The Mysteries of the Sea
Stone of Faith follows a sea captain searching for a legendary stone of faith, who comes across the siren of the sea, and he realizes he has found his fated love, but she is held captive by a monster unwilling to release her. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The inspiration came from my love of Celtic Lore and the sea’s timeless mysteries. I’ve always loved stories of sirens, but I chose to make her something other than the usual temptress. I imagined her as the one imprisoned—longing for freedom. The sea captain grew from Scottish maritime history, where men risked everything on storm-tossed waters, often carrying the weight of legacy and loss. Bringing the two together allowed me to explore how love and faith can become the greatest treasures of all—more powerful than magic or curses.
I found Captain Ewan MacDougall to be an interesting character. What was your inspiration for that character and his role in the story?
Captain Ewan MacDougall springs from my fascination with Scotland’s seafaring past and the resilience of men who live by the sea—bound by duty yet longing for freedom. I wanted him to carry the weight of his family’s legacy, threaded with both honor and tragedy —a man haunted by ghosts but still clinging to hope. His role as captain gave him not only authority but also isolation—he commands the sea, yet his heart yearns for connection. Meeting the siren forces him to confront what he’s been missing: faith in love and in himself. Ewan became the bridge between the mortal world and the mystical one, demonstrating how courage and devotion can even break the strongest chains.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically while writing?
Most of the twists and turns I planned—I’m very much a plotter—but some still developed organically as the story unfolded. The seafaring theme of Stone of Faith actually grew directly from Stone of Lust, which ends with the stone slipping into the sea and vanishing beneath the waves. That loss became the natural bridge into Ewan’s world, driving both the maritime setting and his quest. While I had the major arcs mapped out, I always leave room for discovery, and a few surprising turns surfaced as I outlined and wrote. Those moments of spontaneity often bring the most magic to the page.
I hope the series continues in other books. If so, where will the story take readers?
Next in the series:
Highlander’s Holly and Ivy, a Christmas companion book coming December 1st, 2025. Features Alex MacDougall, Mary, and Roderick from Thistle in the Mistletoe son. A forbidden love between a Highlander and an English lady intertwines with magic, betrayal, and the fate of a nation as they fight to unite their worlds and reclaim Scotland’s legacy.
Stone of Destiny, book 7. Kathryn MacArthur, Evie’s BFF, love story. The exciting conclusion to the Stones of Iona Series, where a woman torn between fate and forbidden love must defy a Fae prophecy and battle dark forces to reclaim her future—and the heart of the Fae warrior she can’t forget. Look for this one early 2026.
This series leads into another connected series, Dragons of Tantallon, a dragon-shapeshifter series revolving around the magic Iona Stones.
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Stone of Faith, Book 6 Stones of Iona Series
The story is a sweeping mix of time travel, seafaring adventure, romance, and myth. At its center is Ewan MacDougall, a man torn between his life in the twentieth century and his calling across the centuries as a pirate captain with a conscience. He frees enslaved people, battles rival captains, and searches for the legendary Stone of Faith while haunted by visions of a mysterious red-haired siren who may hold both his destiny and his doom. The novel blends Scottish folklore, Fae magic, and high-stakes clashes on the sea with a deep undercurrent about love, sacrifice, and the meaning of faith.
I found myself caught up in the action. The writing has a pulsing energy, full of sword fights, cannon fire, and heated confrontations, but what grabbed me most was the way the quieter moments landed. Ewan’s doubts, his search for belonging, and his hunger for something more than adventure made him feel relatable. At times, the dialogue leaned a bit theatrical, but the ambition of the story and the emotion it carries more than made up for that.
I also really admired how the myth and family legacy were woven into the narrative. The fables within the story felt like campfire tales passed down through generations, both charming and ominous. There’s a kind of wild joy in how Izard throws together pirates, ghosts, Fae kingdoms, and love stories without apology. I sometimes shook my head at the boldness of it all, but I kept turning the pages. It made me smile that the book never lost sight of the heart, the way faith, in love or in destiny, can carry someone through storms.
Stone of Faith is a book for readers who like their romance tangled with fantasy, who enjoy folklore alongside duels at sea, and who don’t mind when the story goes big rather than subtle. It’s heartfelt, dramatic, and fun, and while it can be a bit over the top at times, I think that’s exactly what gives it charm. If you like your adventures with a mix of magic and tenderness, this book will be worth your time.
Pages: 246 | ISBN : 150926275X
Stone of Doubt, Book 5 Stones of Iona Series
Stone of Doubt is a captivating blend of modern life, gothic aesthetics, and magical realism. The story follows Evie MacDougall, a goth-leaning recent graduate navigating her Fae heritage, familial expectations, and a tantalizing mix of romantic entanglements and supernatural mysteries. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Edinburgh and the mystical Fae realm, this novel is as much about self-discovery as it is about magical intrigue.
From the outset, Izard weaves an immersive narrative with a mix of relatable internal struggles and grand magical adventures. The opening chapter struck a chord with me—Evie’s self-doubt as she walks the graduation stage while scheming a mischievous magical prank with her twin brother, Ewan, is charming. The interplay between mundane moments, like navigating family relationships, and the extraordinary—the Fae powers that Evie and her family possess—kept me hooked. I appreciated how Izard seamlessly integrates these elements to set up a story that’s as much about Evie’s inner world as it is about the external stakes of magical stones and ancient rivalries.
The writing style is vibrant and layered with emotion. One standout scene for me was Evie’s encounter with the ghost child searching for her doll during the Vaults Vigils. The mix of melancholy and warmth in that moment was palpable, showing Evie’s gift for empathy despite her frustration at not being able to capture photographic proof of ghosts. On the flip side, the budding relationship between Evie and Manix felt a bit rushed to me. Manix’s mysterious allure is evident, but some of his dialogue and interactions came across as theatrical, making it harder for me to root for their connection compared to the nostalgic and bittersweet dynamic Evie shares with her Fae love, Aodhán.
What truly shines in Stone of Doubt is the exploration of familial bonds and the legacy of the MacDougall family’s Fae ties. The scenes where Evie and Ewan bicker, support each other, and share mind-speaking powers add a delightful touch of sibling camaraderie. Their playful dynamic contrasts beautifully with the heavier themes of duty and sacrifice. The lore surrounding the Stones of Iona is another highlight, though I wished for more detailed explanations in certain sections. For instance, the Stone of Doubt’s significance felt slightly underdeveloped compared to the emotional weight carried by the family’s previous quests.
By the end, I found myself fully invested in Evie’s journey. Izard crafts a satisfying conclusion that balances closure with the promise of future adventures. Stone of Doubt is an evocative and imaginative story that will appeal to fans of magical realism, Scottish folklore, and character-driven narratives. If you enjoy books that mix moody atmospheres with heartfelt explorations of identity, this one’s for you.
Pages: 187 | ASIN : B0DSGBDMRL
Time-Travel Romance
In Stone of Hope, a man trying to save his niece and nephew travels through time and meets a brilliant archaeologist who finds herself questioning his motives. I find the setup of the novel entertaining. How did this idea start and develop as you wrote?
Dominic DeVolt’s story first came to me while I was writing the first book in the series, Stone of Love. There, I hinted at how his relationship with his sister had grown distant. Imagining what would happen after he nearly abandoned her to cope alone with their mother’s cancer and death, I realized his story needed to be told. He wasn’t shallow as he may have seemed in Brielle’s memory—just deeply wounded.
By the time I wrote the third book, Stone of Lust, Dominic’s character and backstory were well-formed in my mind: a young man who channeled his grief into Air Force training, determined to become the best fighter in the force. Meanwhile, Brielle’s journey—taking her beloved artifacts discovered in Scotland on a museum tour—created the perfect chance to move the Iona stones’ magic beyond Scotland and into another world: Egypt in the 1930s, during the height of archaeological discovery. Adding Brielle’s children, who possess Fae powers, to Dominic’s time-hopping adventure was too tempting to pass up. This development naturally led into the next two books, each featuring one of Brielle’s children as an adult.
Blending elements from some of my favorite action-adventure films—The Mummy, Night at the Museum, Romancing the Stone, and Escape from Witch Mountain—I crafted this action-packed time-travel romance, weaving in my own vision of love during Egypt’s archaeological heyday.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
I enjoy writing each character for different reasons. I wanted to include the twin niece and nephew as teenagers to add both realism and humor to Dominic’s and Moira’s struggles. It allowed me a chance to introduce them and vest them with readers.
Moira White was a delight to develop. She’s a woman with modern ideals who was raised by a beloved uncle, traveling all over Egypt on his quest for historical treasures. What young woman wouldn’t want that kind of life? She’s very much a woman ahead of her time.
Dominic, however, was more challenging. Striking the right balance between his deep emotions and the charismatic, adrenaline-junkie persona shaped by his military training was no small feat. He’s a great example of the ideal “book boyfriend”: a warrior with a soft heart, a hint of mystery, and just enough “bad boy” to keep things interesting. Finding those softer moments without losing his hard edge was a welcome challenge, and I believe I did his character justice.
What was the inspiration for the love story and the connection the characters have?
Opposites attract. Each unknowingly needs what the other offers. It’s through their journey together they find how they each bring balance to the other through their love.
Can fans look forward to a fifth installment in the Stones of Iona series? Where will it take readers?
Stone of Doubt, book 5, Stones of Iona will release March 17th, 2025. It is available for pre-order now. To view the trailer, visit YouTube. To read an excerpt of the next installment of the series visit: https://margaretizardauthor.com/stonesofiona/hope/
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Moira fears the attractive man who appears at her dig is partnering with her archnemesis. That is until the bold fighter distracts her with a kiss. His duty as uncle tugs her heart, but is he only after her precious artifacts?
He’d fight mystic forces to be with her. She sees her future in his love.
Stone of Hope, Book 4 Stones of Iona
Stone of Hope, by Margaret Izard, masterfully blends romance, history, and fantasy into an enthralling narrative that sweeps readers across the evocative landscapes of Scotland and Egypt. Dominic DeVolt, drawn by the mystical power of the Eye of Ra, finds himself entangled in the life of Moira White, an archaeologist whose brilliance and beauty transcend the ordinary. With his niece and nephew’s lives at stake, Dominic plunges into Moira’s excavation, a place where ancient secrets meet modern treachery. For Moira, Dominic is a puzzle—an enigmatic figure who might bring salvation or destruction. Together, they face mystical forces and personal doubts, testing whether love can bridge the vast chasm between their worlds.
The novel’s richly imagined settings elevate the story, transforming them into living, breathing elements of the narrative. Scotland’s misty hills and Egypt’s sun-drenched ruins resonate with a sense of wonder and danger, adding depth to every scene. These locations are more than mere scenery; they enhance the storytelling, immersing readers in a vibrant atmosphere that lingers long after the pages turn. Dominic and Moira’s chemistry is undeniable, igniting the heart of the novel. Their journey through love, betrayal, and sacrifice explores universal themes of trust and redemption, drawing readers deeply into their emotional struggles.
The element of time travel adds layers of complexity, intensifying the stakes and offering new dimensions to their characters. This interplay of personal growth and high-stakes drama demonstrates Margaret Izard’s skill in crafting intricate relationships that captivate and resonate. Fantastical elements weave seamlessly into the plot, enriching the story without overshadowing its central romance. Izard’s deft integration of folklore and fantasy into historical and contemporary contexts creates a dynamic, multifaceted narrative. The result is a tapestry that sparkles with magic while remaining grounded in its characters’ heartfelt struggles and triumphs.
Stone of Hope concludes with a sense of fulfillment, yet it leaves the door ajar for future adventures. This balanced resolution offers closure while tantalizing readers with the promise of more, a narrative approach that ensures the story remains vivid in their imaginations. Hope and suspense intertwine, ensuring the tale’s impact lingers well beyond the final chapter. For readers seeking a story where love transcends time and the boundaries of past and present collide in breathtaking ways, Stone of Hope offers an unforgettable escape. Margaret Izard’s expert storytelling and genre-blending prowess make this a must-read for fans of historical fantasy and romance.
Pages: 187 | ASIN : B0DLBMNKHG
Thistle in the Mistletoe, A Christmas Companion to Stones of Iona Series
Margaret Izard’s Thistle in the Mistletoe opens with a gripping start. Mary Comyn, thrust into an arranged marriage with Lord Roderick, the formidable leader of a rival clan. In a matter of pages, the reader is plunged into the heart of Mary’s journey. Now living among her supposed enemies in the MacDougall stronghold, Mary grapples with feeling like a pawn, though she strives to embrace her new role as Lady of the clan. As the festive season approaches, Mary is determined to bring warmth and grace to her new household, even as tensions simmer beneath the surface. Yet, as days unfold, she begins to question the stories she’s been told about her new husband. Could Roderick be far different from the ruthless figure her father had painted him to be? Despite the looming threat of war, Mary dares to hope for happiness in a place she never imagined she could call home.
The novel’s brisk beginning ensures readers are immediately swept into the plot, with Mary and Roderick’s marriage unfolding in the first chapter. From there, Izard crafts a captivating, holiday-themed romance set against the rugged, breathtaking backdrop of historical Scotland. The moderate pace keeps readers engaged throughout the book, blending romance, political intrigue, and character development. Minor obstacles and escalating conflicts sustain tension in every chapter, making for a well-rounded narrative with both heartwarming and heart-stopping moments. Izard’s characters are skillfully crafted, with some inspiring fierce loyalty and others evoking just as much disdain.
The story’s vivid depiction of 14th-century Scottish life, combined with the charm of a Christmas setting, makes this an enchanting read perfect for the holiday season. The beginning might feel abrupt for some readers; I feel a bit more context or background on the clans would have strengthened the emotional stakes and made the story’s start feel more anchored. Even so, the book’s conclusion—complete with a surprising twist and cliffhanger—will leave romance fans anxiously anticipating the next installment in Mary and Roderick’s unfolding love story.
Thistle in the Mistletoe is a delightful blend of romance, history, and holiday magic that captivates from start to finish. With endearing characters and a plot that keeps readers invested, this novel is a perfect escape into a world of love and high stakes. As Mary and Roderick’s journey leaves readers yearning for more, one thing is certain: this enchanting story will linger long after the last page, making it a must-read for fans of historical romance.
Pages: 278 | ASIN : B0DGLRZHC6
Her Desire to Learn to Fight
In Stone of Lust, a young woman finds herself in a dangerous conflict with evil Fae as she comes face to face with the warrior who stole her heart. Where did the idea for this novel come from?
From the start, I knew the third book in my series, Stone of Lust, would be a Viking tale. I knew it would feature Colin’s sister, Ainslie, and she would have this juxtaposition between the caring special ed teacher and the warrior inside her heart that, as a child, whipped her older brother, the Laird, while sparring.
I chose the MacDougall clan for my series from the get-go for several reasons. Dunstaffnage Castle has a tumultuous history; the Chapel in the Woods provided the mystic magical element I wanted, and their ancestor was the Lord of Lorne, the ruler of the Western Isles of Scotland in Viking time. Their family history screamed for a Viking story, and I’d miss a huge opportunity if I didn’t tell it.
There was so much about the Viking era with the Lord of Lorne. The idea of merging the modern Ainslie with the stern, rugged Viking ancestor’s first guard, Rannick, proved a great temptation for storytelling and an intriguing romantic tale. The dual plot line with Brielle’s kidnapping and Ainslie’s brother’s rescue provided an opportunity to include a historical relic, the Brooch of Lorne, which is an actual artifact that carried mystical stones the MacDougall ancestors believed gave the person wearing it magical powers. Including that gift from research was such fun for me.
Much of what the reader sees from the Viking era in my book comes from history. How the ships sail, and the men travel is true to historic accountings. “The Thing,” their grand gathering and healing methods, come from meticulous research. I found the Viking people to be just as sophisticated as rugged. Their values and morals are of the highest standard. The way Vikings take these nearly opposing elements and combine them into a thriving society is the heart of what makes them such a dramatic era to write about. There is such richness in the tales it almost writes itself.
Two years ago, my husband and I traveled to Scotland. A highlight of the trip was the stop in Oban since it was near the castles featured in my books, Dunstaffnage and Dunollie castles. I spent a memorable day between the locations featured in my books. Our accommodation, The Oban Inn, faced Oban Bay and the setting sun. Each evening, I’d sit having wine and dinner with the Lord of Lorne’s Castle Dunollie to my right, the Viking Bay before me where the Vikings landed their dragon ships and the sunset beyond. Truly inspiring!
Note, we went in June, and the sunsets last long, not finishing until 10:30 pm. The sun rises at 3:30 am since Scotland is so far north. Being there gives you an other-worldly feeling.
Do you have a favorite scene in this installment of the Stones of Iona series?
It’s an excerpt I often use, the Viking Feast conversation between Ainslie and Rannick, where he frets over his uncontrolled lust for fighting, and Ainslie explains how there are many types of lust.
Excerpt from Stone of Lust
Ainslie smoothed her hand over his firm fist, and he relaxed it a little. She understood his warrior’s heart. The desire to control the fierce energy within him that wanted to wage war but still needed to be gentle with his friends and family. The people he loved deeply. Maybe if she explained how she saw the bloodlust, he might understand the balance between the two.
“Bloodlust is something every fighter has, Rannick. Even women.”
He stared at her hand, gently stroking his, and he relaxed a little more.
Her fingers trailed along his knuckles. “Fighting comes in many forms, not just the sword a warrior wields, but a mother’s fight to bring an infant into the world, a husband’s fight to hunt for food for his family, a warrior’s fight to defend his land.”
She opened his fingers and lightly brushed hers along his palm, from his fingertips to his wrist and back. “A child’s fight to survive in a hard world.” She slowly traced the lines in his hand. “Using the bloodlust for the right reasons and causes is the art of being a great warrior.”
Rannick glanced at his hand, then her face. His free hand came to her cheek and caressed it.
He used his thumb to tilt her head till their eyes connected. “Warrior for the children, woman of war. Is yer bloodlust only for the children?”
Ainslie gazed into Rannick’s bright blue eyes and became lost. She spoke before she thought. “Everyone, I fight for everyone. Who does yer bloodlust fight for, Rannick?”
He leaned toward her, and their breaths mingled. “I fight for many things.” He licked his lips and spoke softly. “But tonight, I use it to pursue the woman I love.”
I find Ainslie MacDougal to be a fascinating character. What was the inspiration for her traits and dialogue?
There are several inspirations I drew from—some from myself and others from people around me.
The first—the special education teacher came from my triplets’ teachers when they were young. The caring nature combined with the hard will to reach a child and teach them was something I felt was a warrior at heart.
Ainslie’s strong will and determination came from me. My strong will and tenacity are characteristics that helped me raise triplets and forge ahead into the dream of writing my stories and seeing them published.
Last is her desire to learn to fight. The idea of sending a modern woman to the past who not only could be a warrior but also brought a juxtaposition of modern ideas was a plotline I felt too tempting to pass up.
Ainslie has a special place in my heart since there’s much of my personality in her. I enjoyed writing Anslie, and I hope readers adore her as much as I do.
Will there be a fourth installment in this series? If so, what can readers expect to see?
The fourth release from the Stones of Iona series is the Christmas Companion book Thistle in the Mistletoe, a Christmas companion book featuring Mary and Roderick (Colin’s identical ancestor in the past featured in Book One, Stone of Love). An innocent highland beauty seeks peace in a forced marriage to her clan’s greatest enemy as betrayal looms from within; she only hopes to find true love. Releases November 4th.
The fourth book in the series, Stone of Hope, is Dominic’s story (Brielle’s brother). Adrenaline junkie, special ops hunk, finds himself hunting a magic Fae stone as his niece and nephew, who possess Fae powers, land them in the middle of a 1930s Egyptian dig of an attractive archaeologist whose archenemy attempts to steal her work. Releases January 13th.
The fifth book in the seven-book series, Stone of Doubt Evie’s story. (Colin and Bree from Stone of Love daughter) A human with Fae powers finds herself fulfilling an old magic stone prophecy as her lost dream boy, now a man, must rescue her from the cruel grip of an evil monster and save the realms. It will be released in 2025.
To keep up with all my latest information, check out my webpage, www.margaretizardauthor.com
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Stone of Lust (Stones of Iona Book 3)
Stone of Lust, the third installment in Margaret Izard’s Stones of Iona series, combines Scottish folklore, romance, and modern intrigue into a tale that’s as much about family as it is about the supernatural. The story centers around Ainslie MacDougall, a determined young woman tied to an ancient heritage and a family curse involving mystical Fae stones. Her sibling relationships, particularly with her skeptical and protective brother Colin, are tested as she steps into a larger conflict involving dangerous Fae, her family’s legacy, and a quest to safeguard those she loves. It’s a journey of survival, love, and loyalty where modern-day Scotland feels as magical and dark as any ancient legend.
Izard’s writing has a rich and cinematic quality that is full of vivid descriptions that make the Scottish highlands come alive. The opening chapters, where young Ainslie grapples with her wooden sword, reminded me of childhood dreams of bravery. Ainslie’s fierce spirit shines through in these scenes. When her brother Colin’s skepticism threatens to discourage her, she holds her ground with grit and wit. This childhood resilience defines Ainslie, and it’s one of my favorite aspects of the book. Though I loved the book, I felt some passages lingered on descriptions of the MacDougall castles, slowing the story’s pace at times, especially when it felt like the plot was building toward something urgent.
As the story unfolds, the balance between magic and realism kept me intrigued. Colin’s reluctant involvement in the family’s Fae heritage brings a grounded contrast to Ainslie’s deep-seated faith in these mystical stones and legends. Their banter provides levity to the story, especially in the family-centric scenes. Yet, when Colin encounters threats from his wife Bree’s past and sees the stones’ mystical forces at work, his character shifts. I enjoyed watching Colin’s initial dismissal of his sister’s beliefs clash with his growing desperation to protect Bree, though I felt some scenes felt heavy-handed in illustrating his inner conflict, making him seem stubborn to a fault.
One standout aspect of Stone of Lust is how Izard builds suspense. By the time Ainslie’s nightmares start crossing into reality, each encounter with the Fae feels tangible and sinister. Izard’s pacing during these moments, coupled with the mysteries surrounding the “Stone of Lust,” pulled me into a real thrill.
Stone of Lust is an engaging read for fans of folklore, romance, and suspenseful family dramas. The novel’s combination of Scottish legends, family loyalty, and an unyielding female protagonist makes it a good pick for those who appreciate a story that is as much about character as it is about magic.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0DCZVVR9T
LITERARY TITAN 