I remember reading a book years ago about a boy (probably about 12) who was sent on vacation to his relatives (I believe in Scotland or Ireland).  He was just a regular kid until he got there and then he began to have things happen to him, such as accidents.  Turns out he was meant to be there to stop a evil that was rising up.  I believe the evil took the form of a beast.  I seem to remember an older cousin or villager helping him to fight the evil.

I know this is rather a sketchy description but I thought maybe someone else might have read it and remembered the title.

Thanks.

This sounds really familar, but I just can't seem to put my finger on what book it might be......

Could it be the Tartan Magic series by Jane Yolen?  http://www.janeyolen.com/blurbs/wizardsm.html