The Silver Casket by Debbie Mumford
Catriona Logan was thoroughly enjoying her graduation trip to Edinburgh, celebrating not only her degree in Medieval History but also the opportunity to visit her family heritage. She delighted in wandering through the city, entering shops that drew her attention, and searching for something special, though not really sure what it would be. On her third day in Edinburgh, Cat noticed a narrow lane with several curious shops. Allowing her instinct to guide her, she came to a dusty, dingy thrift store, and after overcoming her initial nervousness, Cat entered the shop. The owner greeted her and asked about her heritage. When Cat told him she was descended from the Logans of Lasterrick, the owner produced a beautifully engraved silver casket, rumored to contain the heart of Sir Eideard Logan. Cat was strangely drawn to the box, although the shop owner warned her that it was cursed and should not be opened.
“Catriona, return to me my heart. Lastalrig Castle. By the bright of the moon. Eideard.” The inscription sparked Cat’s curiosity, but she was hesitant about opening the casket. Was Eideard’s heart really contained inside? Finally, after three attempts, she gently opened the box to discover a beautifully drawn portrait…of a woman who could be her twin. Though Cat originally had no intention of visiting a ruined castle alone at night, the next evening, she found herself climbing the hill leading to Lastalrig Castle, the silver casket resting in her backpack. Upon reaching the castle, Cat gently opened the casket again, creating an immediate sense of pressure and pain before she blacked out. As Cat regained consciousness and became more aware of her surroundings, she realized the castle was no longer in ruins and was illuminated by candlelight. How did this happen? Where…or when…is Cat?
This short story was an absolute delight to read. Cat was an interesting and believable character, and I could identify with her struggles to conform to the expected behaviors of the day. I particularly enjoyed the part where Cat and Eideard meet, never expecting the outcome! I felt the characters were well-developed and realistic, the scenery descriptions were clear and easy to imagine, and I was so engaged in the story that I was surprised when it was over. I definitely recommend this book to all romantics who believe that love can last forever.
Book Stats:
- e-book, digital format
- Publisher: Freya’s Bower
- Book Length: Novella
- Language: English
- ISBN: 978-1-935013-92-1
To purchase an eBook copy of The Silver Casket click here.













I loved this story, too! My only complaint was that it was over too soon.
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