Rosemary Goring

What an ingenious idea behind this book! Scores of short excerpts from letters, articles, personal anecdotes and renditions of real events are collectively used to describe a nation and its history. Nearly all of these pieces are worth the read as standalone texts, but together they make up a picture of country and of a people. The editor Rosemary Goring has picked pieces she must have found interesting, entertaining and readable, rather than politically and historically correct. The result is the true people's history, with the perfect mix and in total balance, told in a more effective and better way than any other history book I have read. I understand Scotland and the Scots considerably better now - what an education I have had!… (meer)

A compelling and exciting story beginning in 1523, 10 years after the Battle of Flodden when life is still very fraught for the Borderers. Chief clansman Adam Crozier finds out that Baron Thomas Dacre, Lord Warden of the Marshes, ordered the murder of his father. Crozier wants his revenge and plots Dacre's downfall.

This is a fascinating and imaginative piece of fiction, cleverly combining fact. It is well researched and beautifully written. I was totally absorbed by the story and found it gripping. It makes an excellent sequel to the previous book 'After Flodden'. I enjoyed being involved with some of the same characters' lives again, who were portrayed very realistically and vividly. I can highly recommend both novels to historical fiction fans, especially those who enjoy Scottish history.

Many thanks to Lovereading.co.uk for giving me the opportunity to read and review Dacre's War. I look forward to reading Rosemary Goring's next book.… (meer)