On a Sword’s Edge by J R Tomlin
Blog tour with The Coffee Pot Book Club
In 1263 Scotland, as King Alexander faces a Norse invasion led by King Haakon, sixteen-year-old William Douglas, a squire, finds himself thrust into the heart of the conflict. As the Norse fleet arrives, threatening Scotland's fate, William must prove his mettle alongside his brother and the Scottish forces, where courage, not titles, will determine the outcome.
A short, sharp and gritty read based on real events of Scottish history.
On a Sword’s Edge is the first in The Swords of Scotland Series. A smaller read at 159 pages, it’s short, sharp and snappy. Tomlin’s style is descriptive at times, but is mostly action- driven and succinct. The result is an authentic, fast-paced account of medieval life through the eyes of a squire experiencing his first battle. Scottish language has been integrated into the narrative, with words such as ‘bairn’, ‘cannae’ and ‘fash’. This reflects Scotland’s unique dialect and identity.
Tomlin blends facts and fiction to create an absorbing account of the Norse invasion of 1263. The Battle of Largs is excellently written, with plenty of action, gore and conflict. We meet various historical figures, such as Alexander Stewart, High Lord Steward of Scotland, the main commander of the battle (renamed by the author in the book to avoid any confusion), and King Alexander III, the young Scottish King.
In contrast to the rough and brutal lifestyle of an army, we also see life outside of the army, such as family life at English estates, and traditions such as the burning of the Yule log over Christmas.
Blending well-researched history with well-written prose, Tomlin recreates the events of 1263 in a fast-paced, enjoyable and snappy read. For anyone who loves a good battle scene, politics and meaty history, this one’s for you.
*if you buy through this link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thank you to The Coffee Pot Book Club for this tour opportunity, and for providing a copy of the book for my honest review.
Well-researched. That's the best recommendation.