The prophecy of a second-sighted Highlander binds the fates of a Highland laird and an English major amidst the collapse of the 1745 Jacobite uprising. Ewen Cameron, a sincere and idealistic supporter of Bonnie Prince Charlie, finds his path repeatedly crossing with Major Keith Windham, a cynical professional soldier serving the opposing crown. Their relationship is defined by a foretold cycle of service and grief, forcing both men to navigate the shifting loyalties of a fractured Scotland. The narrative follows their parallel perspectives as they confront the physical dangers of a failing military campaign and the logical constraints of their conflicting allegiances.

Readers frequently highlight the author's ability to balance historical accuracy with the intimate development of the two central figures. Discussion often centers on the effectiveness of the prophecy as a structural device that maintains tension throughout the campaign. Critics note that the prose captures the somber atmosphere of the Jacobite defeat while avoiding overly sentimental depictions of the conflict. The contrast between Ewen's idealism and Keith's world-weariness provides a stable foundation for the narrative's exploration of honor. Many readers appreciate how the book functions as a character study within a broader historical framework.