AN Earlston author has kicked off the new year by completing her epic trilogy.

Gwen Hardie, who writes under the name Elizabeth Burton, earned high praise for the first two parts of The Black Glen Trilogy.

And even more five-star reviews will be coming her way in 2018 with the release of the third and final instalment, The Maid of Sulibhan.

Gwen began her writing career with historical pamphlets about Thomas the Rhymer.

And she expanded her research into publishing his biography.

Gwen's first novel, The Black Glen, began a trilogy set on a remote croft in the Highlands.

And readers were introduced to Isobel Caldwell, who is blessed, or some would say cursed, with the gift of foresight.

Some two years after the sequel, Kismet and Karma, was published Gwen has finally released the third and final instalment.

Gwen told us: " The first two books in the trilogy have proven to be extremely popular, and several local readers, and many further afield, have patiently waited two years for the publication of the conclusion."

The Maid of Sulibhan, priced at £10, is available from From Me to You in Jedburgh, the Tom Davidson Gallery in Earlston, and Milestone Garden & Leisure, Newtown St Boswells.

Copies can also be purchased directly from the author or the publisher Llanerch Press.