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Loading... The Castilians: A story of the siege of St Andrews Castleby Veh Masters
None No current Talk conversations about this book.  JeanRoberts | Feb 2, 2021 |  no reviews | add a review
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Scotland 1546. Seeking revenge for the burning of a young preacher, a group of lairds take St Andrews Castle by stealth, and murder Cardinal Beaton, the nation's most powerful man.
For a sister and brother Bethia, living in the town outside the castle, and Will, one of the rebels within the siege becomes a battle for survival.
As the long siege plays out, Will moves between hunger, fear and boredom; so cold hes burning furniture and books and so hungry hes eating rats. His actions mean the family could lose everything, unless Bethia gives up the hope of love or forces Will home.
But this is not just a struggle between them, its about the choices a nation must make as Henry VIII coerces from across the border, determined the infant Mary Queen of Scots will marry his son, and Scotland's auld alliance with France is invoked.
This debut novel closely follows the events of the siege of St Andrews Castle, and its dramatic re-taking. No library descriptions found. |
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Reviewers Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Plot in Brief: Set in Scotland in the 1540s, this is the story of Bethia Seaton and her family during the siege of St. Andrews which took place during the 'Rough Wooing'. Protestant Lords and their followers, including Will, Bethia's older brother, storm the castle and kill the Roman Catholic Cardinal David Beaton who lives there with his mistress. A stand off ensues as the 'Castilians' await help from King Henry VIII. Bethia's father decides her marriage to a prominent merchant, Fat Norman, will help save his finances and family reputation. But Bethia's heart is set on another.
The History: I always know I'm reading a great book when I have to stop and look up the history. This book is set during what is known as 'The Rough Wooing', King Henry VIII was determined that Mary (Queen of Scots) would marry his son, Prince Edward. At the time, Mary was only four years old. Henry thought he could bludgeon the Scots into accepting this marriage. This was also the time of the rise of Protestantism. The siege of St Andrews castle was the result of the burning of a Protestant preacher, George Wishart. I found the whole thing fascinating.
The Characters: What I loved about this book was the finely drawn characters. Bethia's family, the servants, her friends, everyone was fantastic. Each was given their own special characteristics. I had to laugh at poor sad Fat Norman who toots when he walks! Bethia was a perfect female lead; she was a keen observer and I enjoyed her balancing act on the cusp of womanhood. I also appreciate that these are everyday characters, not kings or queens, just people, living their lives. Hats off to the author for creating believable characters come to life across the pages of her story.
The Writing: Told in third person, the narrative is shared by Bethia and Will. The writing is great as is the editing. The pace is fast and I was sorry when the story ended.
Overall: I really enjoyed this novel. The setting, the history and the characters all come together in a perfect blend. I highly recommend this intriguing novel.
Rating: I give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Well-deserved Stars (