A tale of love and adventure in WWII

We Fought For Ardnish, by Angus MacDonald – review by Kelsey Ward at The Highland Bookshop, Fort William Donald Angus Gillies joins the Lovat Scouts during the Second World War.

On a special operatives mission he falls for Francoise, a resistance agent for the allies. As the tragedies of war try to pull them apart, they are given one final, and very dangerous mission.

This novel takes the reader from the dizzying heights of the Alps, to the blustery sea coast of Cape Breton, and, of course, to the west coast of Scotland.

Donald Angus is charming and relatable, with homely notions. While Francoise is coy, leaving the reader full of questions, just as Donald Angus is.

Above all this book is an excellent reflection of a love of one’s home and heritage.

It is clear MacDonald has a deep affection for the landscape and history of the west coast, particularly the Ardnish/Arisaig peninsula. It unfolds with close-to-home characters and careful, nostalgic depictions of what things really used to be like.

MacDonald is also thoroughly versed in history and his research in all aspects of war, land and people shows through. He is generous with his information as a means of truly building the backdrop to a marvellous adventure.

A good soldiering pace is kept in his writing, as he casts between the sweet past and the dogged now of the Second World War. The calm moments give impact to the rush of drama and action. Simply put, it was a page turner, and rather difficult to put down.

Angus MacDonald has lived all his life in the Highlands and is steeped in their tales. He served in his local regiment, the Queen’s Own Highlanders.

A serial entrepreneur he was awarded the Spear’s UK entrepreneur of the year award for 2017, building businesses in publishing, renewable energy, recycling and education. He founded The Caledonian Challenge and runs The Moidart Trust, as well as being co-owner of The Highland Bookshop in Fort William.