Frank Osbaldistone, a young man exiled from his father's home, finds himself entangled in the political volatility of the 1715 Jacobite rising while navigating the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Frank seeks to establish his own identity and secure his future, but he is repeatedly drawn into the dangerous schemes of local clans and the enigmatic outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor. The narrative, presented through Frank's perspective, documents his interactions with the spirited Diana Vernon and his struggle to reconcile his modern sensibilities with the primitive, often violent, traditions of the northern territories. The story operates within a framework of historical realism, utilizing the tension between the established United Kingdom and the rebellious Highland culture to drive the plot forward.

Readers and critics frequently note the novel's significance in establishing the historical romance genre. Discussion often centers on Scott's ability to balance intricate political intrigue with the personal development of his protagonist. Many observers highlight the vivid portrayal of the Scottish Highlands as a defining feature that elevates the setting to a character in its own right. While some modern readers find the prose style dense, the consensus remains that the work provides a foundational look at the intersection of tradition and modernity. The text is widely recognized for its sophisticated treatment of cultural identity and its enduring influence on subsequent literature.