Kingdom follows the War of Scottish Independence after the crowning of Robert the Bruce. Having never known too much about the Scottish Wars of Independence, particularly from the Scottish point of view, it gave a very different insight into the wars. Though the book is historical fiction, it is clear Young put a lot of research into the story. I was able to learn new facts about this particular time, for example, about the rivalry and relationships between Scottish clans. As well as being a fun and exciting story to read, it also gives opportunity for learning.
Robyn Young does not spare the reader any details of how wars were fought and the injuries that could occur. Though it left me cringing at parts of the imagery of some things, I couldn’t stop reading, as I played the battles and skirmishes out in my head. The politics were tense as Bruce tries to gain the respect and support of the Scottish, even while the clans of Scotland bicker and argue among themselves. Throughout the book I was able to relate to all the characters, even to the likes of Edward Longshanks, who, in this story, may be seen as the villain. As well as getting a view of the struggles Edward I faced politically, the story also gives an insight into his more personal problems, most notably the relationship with his son, the future Edward II. I would recommend this book to those who want an exciting, detailed, gripping book on the Scottish Wars of Independence, who want to see things from the point of view of all the players in the war. It certainly left me pondering and questioning what I thought I knew about the Scottish Wars of Independence, and it indeed left me wondering what my view on this violent part of history is.
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AuthorJust an aspiring medieval historian. Still learning the ropes. ArchivesCategories |