Book No 2: "The Scots of Dalriada"

Rowena Kinread gives us another rousing historical novel..

THREE BROTHERS
Fergus, Loarn and Angus, Princes of the Dalriada, are forced into exile by their scheming half-brother and the druidess Birga One-tooth.
THREE FATES
Fergus conceals himself as a stable lad on Aran and falls helplessly in love with a Scottish princess, already promised to someone else. Loarn crosses swords against the Picts. Angus designs longboats.
TOGETHER A MIGHTY POWER
Always on the run the brothers must attempt to outride their adversaries by gaining power themselves. Together they achieve more than they could possibly dream of.
Fergus Mór (The Great) is widely recognised as the first King of Scotland, giving Scotland its name and its language. Rulers of Scotland and England from Kenneth mac Alpín until the present time claim descent from Fergus Mór.
Full of unexpected twists and turns, this is a tale of heart-breaking love amidst treachery, deceit and murder.

The BookViral Review:

Beginning with the marriage of Erc of Dalriada to his first wife Marca at the age of fifteen and covering the period up until his death in 474AD, Kinread gives us a rousing historical novel and a fine example of what can happen when good writing and extensive research come together.

Erc of Dalriada is a man whose belief in honour and whose love for his second wife Mista, family, and clan make him a figure to cheer for and it’s through him that readers are drawn into the lifelong conflict between his sons Fergus and Cartan who would see himself as King.

What’s best about The Scots of Dalriada: Fergus Mór is the vivid images Kinread conveys of time and place (fifth-century Ireland and Scotland), and the kinds of personalities produced by a world where alliances were often fleeting and fraught with danger.

Suffice it to say that Kinread weaves an exciting web of a story that is interspersed with gem like facts and insight that so often many writers of historical fiction fail to mention and her superb eye for detail is a tribute to her desire to bring the many facets of a tough existence to life.

Given the extended period of The Scots of Dalriada the story outline could have produced yet another tired historical epic with which the genre has become inundated with but Kinread juggles an extensive cast of supporting characters to retain the intrigue throughout. Among them, the return of Saint Patrick as his story from The Missionary is continued and other significant historical figures such as Ceretic Guletic of Alt Clut who was king of Alt Clut.

Central to Kinread’s narrative is the conflict between Fergus, whose subsequent importance as the founder of Scotland in the national myth of Medieval and Renaissance Scotland is not in doubt, and Cartan. Theirs is a complex tale with Cartan’s bitter hatred for Fergus painting him as a cunning and despicable character who is credited with the murder of Erc of Dalriada and his wife Mista among other heinous crimes against Erc’s lineage.

Another original and applaudable novel from Kinread which is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and avid historians alike,

The Scots of Dalriada: Fergus Mór is highly recommended.

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Review by Deborah Swift, award-winning- best seller- author of historical fiction

"must read."

"I bought this book on #KindleUnlimited and admit I knew nothing about early Scottish or Irish history, so this was really interesting. It is not for the faint-hearted as early on in the book it contains the sort of sex and violence you might expect from warring tribes of this era. Hand to hand fighting with sword and fists is a very different battlefield to that of today. Don’t let this put you off though, as it is extremely well-researched with episodes covering a vast swathe of history. The sort of hand to mouth existence is well-described, the flat-bottomed boats, the reliance on horses, the language of Brittonic, the burns and brochs, the rocks and seashore. I loved the travel between Scotland and Ireland, and the description of life in the Irish fort at Tara, Meath.

I enjoyed Fergus’ character as he grows and develops. The characters are rough men, used to fighting, manipulating, wielding threats and death to those that cross them. Erc was a great character – he dispenses the wisdom born of age, and came across as hard-headed but realistic. ‘If you receive favours instead of being a leader by merit, then your men will not trust you wholly, nor follow you blindly’.

There is a lot in this novel and you have to keep your wits about you as a reader as it zips from place to place. Rowena Kinread’s love of the history of these people shines through and for anyone interested in their Scottish or Irish origins, or early Christian and Druid history, it is a must read."

Review for The Scots of Dalriada from Cathie Dunn, an award-winning and Amazon-bestselling author.

Whilst I know quite a bit about medieval Scotland, my knowledge of the earlier centuries is somewhat vague. So it was with great interest that I picked up this novel, and I was not disappointed.

The Scots of Dalriada is the tale of three brothers, and of the migration of the Scoti people from Ireland to western Caledonia. So just how did the Scots arrive in Scotland?

The story begins with Erc, Fergus’ father, in Ireland. When he is married to a ’much older’ woman aged 15, for alliances, his life changes forever. His own father is ambitious, and personal contentment are not on his list of favours.

Erc's sons are born, but little does he know what fate has in store for them.

As we see the sons grow up, we witness their experiences. Growing up at such a time of profound change turned men into hardened warriors, each keen to carve out their own fate. It's no time for niceties, and as jealousies grow, so grows the violence.

But it's also a time for opportunities, and as Fergus sets out for a grand adventure, his brother Cartan has other plans. Plans that involve intrigue and murder.

The Scots of Dalriada is a gripping novel that shows a credible ’what if’ scenario. The research is impeccable, and the author's knowledge of the era shines through all through the book. She also doesn't shy away from the machinations of the time, the intrigues, and the coming of age of our young warriors is a brutal path to manhood.

I didn't warm to the narrative, though, which I found a little repetitive and jarring at times. But that didn't spoil my reading experience. The characters are clearly defined, none too likeable, but relatable in an historical sense. The plot is gripping, full of action, and the author's description takes us right back to what we consider the Dark Ages. In one sense, they were indeed dark: the bloody violence of the times, mixed with personal ambition that brought men to turn against their own.

A clever plot, deep characterisation, and detailed description make The Scots of Dalriada a great read. Fans of historical fiction set in Scotland and Ireland in particular will enjoy it.
~~~
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FSTLI

5.0 out of 5 stars "A Captivating Journey Through the Heart of Scottish History: The Scots of Dalriada"

Rowena Kinread's "The Scots of Dalriada" is a masterful blend of historical richness and narrative prowess that captivates from the first page. This book is not just a read; it's an immersive experience into the tumultuous world of 5th century Scotland, and it left an indelible mark on me. The story of the three brothers – Fergus, Loarn, and Angus – is wrought with the depth and complexity befitting historical legends. Forced into exile by betrayal, their journeys across the rugged landscapes of Ireland and Scotland are as enthralling as they are diverse. Fergus's heart-wrenching love story, Loarn's valiant confrontations with the Picts, and Angus's ingenuity in shipbuilding intertwine to create a narrative tapestry rich with historical detail and human emotion. Kinread's writing style is evocative and fluid, making each scene leap off the page. The backdrop of ancient Scotland is painted with such vividness; I found myself transported to the rolling hills and stormy seas of the Dalriadan age. The authenticity of the setting is testament to the meticulous research behind this book, seamlessly blending factual history with creative storytelling. The character development is exceptional. Each of the brothers, along with a cast of supporting characters, are so well crafted that they linger in your mind long after the last page is turned. Fergus, in particular, is a character of such depth and resonance that his journey from a stable lad to the first King of Scotland is both believable and deeply moving. The novel skillfully balances elements of romance, intrigue, and action, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in historical fiction. The intricacies of the relationships, the strategical maneuverings, and the sheer struggle for survival are all depicted with a deftness that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Perhaps most striking is how Kinread draws parallels between the distant past and the present, highlighting the timeless nature of ambition, loyalty, and the human spirit. The historical connections to modern Scotland and England are fascinating, adding an educational layer to this thrilling read. In conclusion, "The Scots of Dalriada" by Rowena Kinread is a triumph in historical fiction. It's a book that not only entertains but enlightens, offering a window into a pivotal era in Scottish history through the lives of compelling characters and a riveting narrative. An absolute must-read for fans of the genre and anyone fascinated by Scotland's rich past.
Philip Tyler Author

5.0 out of 5 stars A vivid story beautifully written of early Scottish royalty.

The loves, intrigue and violence that lead to the establishment of the royal families of Scotland and England are brought into fascinating life in this wonderful book. The intertwining passions of the foundation family characters are tested to the limits of survival in this unique work. The chapters fly by as you chase the next twist in the tale.
Amazon Customer

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliantly Written Historical Fiction

Really enjoyed the book, well-paced story and very well written with plenty of descriptions to picture the scenes and time.
Penelope Gallinger

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommended Exciting Novel

A very exciting book with a historical background. Highly recommended reading.
DJC

5.0 out of 5 stars Haunting

I write this review a month after reading the book, and the story still rolls round my mind, the characters still speak to me, I can close my eyes and see the Irish and Scottish Scenery, hear the voices.  It is a story crafted like a patchwork quilt, out of fragments of other things, some historical, some imaginative, a bit of history, a romance, an intrique, many murders... everything is related to everything else, and yet there are also many complete stories within it, each satisfying in different ways.  There are four brothers, three of full blood and loyal to one another, the fourth of half- blood and loyal to nobody. They are each beautifully differentiated, with different ambitions, different destinies, including the wonderful Fergus who will one day, after many struggles and setbacks, be the elected king of Scotland. I loved the relationships between them. I completely believed in the world the author created around them, with all its brutality and hardships, so I am prepared to believe that it is a well- researched book, though I don't know the period.  I also, by the way, loved the horse: it would be worth reading the book just for that story, actually, though it creeps in gently and takes a clever while to work out.
Nic

5.0 out of 5 stars Highly recommend this beautifully written historical fiction.

Such a spellbinding tale. The author skilfully takes the reader through a thrilling period of 5th century history with the establishment of the Dalriada clan in Scotland following numerous sails across the sea from the tip of Northern Ireland. The novel has it all; love, hate, war, dastardly deeds, heroic bravery, entrepreneurship, all within evocative descriptions of the hardship of life in those times. A wonderful hero, Fergus, emerges who, with his brothers, achieves a great deal of good and is so respected that he is ultimately crowned King of the Dalriadas. Fergus achieved monumental improvements for the life of his people in his three short years of power before tragically dying in a storm whilst making yet another crossing. The links with today are educational as the first recorded anointing of a King in the UK was the King of the Dalriadas in Western Scotland centuries later. Some historians also believe that the stone used below the throne is the same stone used for coronations today. How much has changed from the 5th to the 21st century, but as this superb author convinces us, so much of the most important human experience remains the same.
Jonathan

5.0 out of 5 stars History brought alive

An imaginative tale of a little known part of Irish and Scottish history. The culture of the time is vividly depicted and helps make this story a real page turner.
fictionreader

5.0 out of 5 stars Realistic portrayal of episodes in early Scottish history

I bought this book on #KindleUnlimited and admit I knew nothing about early Scottish or Irish history, so this was really interesting. It is not for the faint-hearted as early on in the book it contains the sort of sex and violence you might expect from warring tribes of this era. Hand to hand fighting with sword and fists is a very different battlefield to that of today. Don’t let this put you off though, as it is extremely well-researched with episodes covering a vast swathe of history. The sort of hand to mouth existence is well-described, the flat-bottomed boats, the reliance on horses, the language of Brittonic, the burns and brochs, the rocks and seashore. I loved the travel between Scotland and Ireland, and the description of life in the Irish fort at Tara, Meath.  I enjoyed Fergus’ character as he grows and develops. The characters are rough men, used to fighting, manipulating, wielding threats and death to those that cross them. Erc was a great character – he dispenses the wisdom born of age, and came across as hard-headed but realistic. ‘If you receive favours instead of being a leader by merit, then your men will not trust you wholly, nor follow you blindly’.  There is a lot in this novel and you have to keep your wits about you as a reader as it zips from place to place. Rowena Kinread’s love of the history of these people shines through and for anyone interested in their Scottish or Irish origins, or early Christian and Druid history, it is a must read.
A Review by AZP  

The Scots of Dalriada is a rousing book of historical fiction in which the order of the day is about sailing boats of invading armies by powerful families of north-east Ireland to obtain more lands and slaves!

  The book confers glimpses of boat building and fishing; agriculture and war-based commerce and industry; migration, settlement, marriage and intermarriages; and the relevance of having male offspring to fortify and retain a seat of power.  Incidentally, the book poignantly shows as well that this is a period when female and women offspring have no significance in terms of the succession of power and throne; a period when diarrhea is unmanageable and a mystery; an era when herds of cattle, sheep, and cows are more important than humans!  

The novel specifically converges on Fergus Mor – the legendary ruler of Scots alongside the perpetual threat of murder and ending his life by Cartan – his ‘half-brother’.  The author’s sensible narratives of ‘untying and tying the knots’ in light of facts and imagination - all at the same time - are commendable! The book accomplishes well in revealing the protagonist and antagonist's lives in a full circle. Leaving a satisfying read.  I enjoyed very much reading the Chapter Seven of this book, it mirrors the playful creativity of the author and her deep grasp of history. Chapter Seven superbly describes the extent and implications of boredom! How it manifests in daily living: the food available on the table; the comportment of each individual, the people, families and children; the ladies; the army, their commanders and rulers; and the overall, identity and panorama of medieval times.  Although the book does not showcase much of strings of ‘reflective’ narratives - in which the point of view of the main character is dominantly highlighted, author Rowena Kinread, however, chooses and pens logical and entertaining scenes, lines, and exchanges of dialogues in the format of present tense thus depicting and expounding vibrantly the despondencies and flutter of life in medieval times, in war or at rest - contributive to a compelling historical fiction! Moreover, worth mentioning is that the author diligently writes the title of each chapter, a short introduction of each character and the mindful translation of the Scot language and terms.  A book full of adventures, wonders, the carnage of war and human greed, dashes of romantic scenes, brotherhood, family and friendship bond, loyalty and bravery; and an endless parade of life lessons!  A relevant and entertaining read! Une lecture pertinente et divertissante!
Jatin Jangra

"The Scots of Dalriada" by Rowena Kinread is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of three brothers, Fergus, Loan, and Angus, who are princes of the Dalriada. However, they are forced into exile by their scheming half-brother and the druidess Birga One-tooth.  The book follows the three brothers on their individual journeys, each facing their own challenges and fates. Fergus, for instance, conceals himself as a stable lad on Aran and falls in love with a Scottish princess who is already promised to someone else. Meanwhile, Loan engages in battles against the Picts, and Angus designs longboats.  Despite the challenges and obstacles that they face, the brothers continue to strive for power and success, always on the run from their adversaries. Together, they achieve more than they could have ever dreamed of. The book reveals how Fergus Mor (The Great) is widely recognized as the first King of Scotland, giving Scotland its name and its language.  The story is full of unexpected twists and turns, making for a thrilling and engaging read. The book explores themes of heart-breaking love, treachery, deceit, and murder, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the story.  Overall, "The Scots of Dalriada" is an exciting and well-crafted novel that brings the reader on a journey of intrigue, suspense, and adventure. The characters are well-developed, and the historical context adds depth and richness to the story. Anyone interested in Scottish history and culture, or those who simply enjoy a good historical fiction novel, will find this book to be a worthwhile read.
Jessica

 I knew this was going to be an exceptional read and I was right. I don't know how to do this book justice, it was harrowing and raw and one of the best pieces of mythology someone could read. It's a fine mix of love amidst, treachery, deceit and murder with a historical background. It takes us to 5th century, a little known part of Irish and Scottish history. The people, the culture and the traditions of that time is vividly explained by the author.  Fergus, Loarn and Angus, princes of the Dalriada are forced into exile. Fergus falls helplessly in love with a Scottish princess, already promised to someone else. What happens when the rulers of Scotland and England claim descent from Fergus? Who forced the three brothers into exile? And how did they achieve more than they could possibly dream of?  The book was well organised by topics and incredibly engaging and well written. I think this is such an important book to experience to get a realistic grasp on Irish and Scottish history that invites you to really engage and discuss the world we're living in. Overall, this was a fascinating page turner.
Reviewer

The story is full of unexpected twists and turns and it is a tale of heart-breaking love amidst treachery, deceit and murder. I absolutely loved this book and looking forward to read more writings from the author.

The story is about three brothers- Fergus, Loarn and Angus, and of the migration of the Scoti people from Ireland to western Caledonia. Fergus is widely recognised as the first King of Scotland, giving Scotland its name and its language. Fergus, Loarn and Angus together achieved more than they could possibly dream of. But soon things change and they are forced into exile by their scheming half-brother and the druidess Birga One-tooth. To know what happened next, you must read this fantastic book.  The story is so absorbing and thrilling that it will leave you agape after each chapter seeking for more. The author's writing style is engaging and descriptive, allowing you to visualize every scene in your mind's eye.  It is a fast-paced and action-packed story. The plot is well developed. The characters are well portrayed. The fabulous narration makes it a smooth read.  The language is adequately clear and praises with the plot setting. It is totally eccentric with enough exciting bends in the road. The title and cover fit the entire story.  Overall it was a fantastic read. I highly recommend this book to all my fellow readers.
Anuradha Garg

I really loved reading "The Scots of Dalriada" by Rowena Kinread. The book takes you back to ancient times in Scotland and tells the story of three brothers named Fergus, Loarn, and Angus. These guys are Princes and they're in a tough spot because of their tricky half-brother and a druidess named Birga One-tooth.  The book is all about their adventures and struggles. Fergus, who's pretending to be a stable guy, falls in love with a princess who's already promised to someone else. Loarn is all about battles with the Picts, and Angus is into making cool longboats.  What's cool is how these brothers work together to face their problems. They have to deal with bad stuff like betrayals and deceit, but they stick together and get stronger. I liked how they each have their own challenges to overcome, and you really root for them.  The story has a lot going on, like forbidden love, battles, and tricky politics. But the author makes it all easy to follow, and I was hooked from the start. The characters feel real, especially Fergus, who's smart and caring. I could really picture the scenes and feel like I was right there.  The best thing about the book is how it mixes real history with made-up storylines. You learn about what life was like back then, and it's pretty fascinating. The book made me care about these brothers and what happened to them.  This part towards the end brought tears to my eyes: “Mother, we will never forget my father, I’m afraid I am not worthy to follow in his footsteps.” “Oh yes, my son, you are. Your father would be proud of you, as I am too” “I will do my best and try to do everything as he would’ve done.”  If you're into history and adventure, "The Scots of Dalriada" is worth reading. It's got excitement, drama, and a story that keeps you turning the pages.
The_D'S_bookshelf

What's your favourite historical fiction?   🏆 The Scots of Dalriada by Rowena Kinread is an adventurous historical fiction that will take readers to a world centuries ago.
Somnath Das

A captivating historical narrative, "The Scots of Dalriada: Fergus Mór" by Rowena Kinread, whisks readers away to the intriguing world of three princely brothers, Fergus, Loarn, and Angus, and their struggle against treachery and adversity. Author expertly weaves a tapestry of romance, family bonds, and political intrigue against the backdrop of medieval Scotland and England.
G.Gayathri, Chawdeswari

"The Scots of Dalriada" is an intriguing journey into the lesser-explored history of Scotland and England, offering readers an immersive experience filled with adventure and an array of diverse characters and locales.
Archana A

'The Scots of Dalriada' by Rowena Kinread is one of the best historical fictions I've read until now. Set in the fifth century, the story is about three brothers, Fergus, Loarn, and Angus, Princes of the Dalriada, who are forced into exile by their scheming half-brother and the druidess Birga. The brothers are now supposed to fight against the enemies by making themselves powerful. The background is Scotland and England. Fergus Mór (The Great) who is widely known as the first King of Scotland, was an important character in the book. He is regarded a lot for his leadership qualities. Will the brothers be able to stay together and fight?  The theme is not just history but also adventure, action, jealousy, trachery, family drama, and revenge. There are many twists and turns filled in the book, which makes the reading more exciting. The 'family drama' aspect added spice to the story. The plot was intriguing and is a treat to all the fans of historical fiction.
Carly Rheilan

A complex and lyrical family saga that set me in mind of other sagas I have read and loved, from Homer to the Orkneyinga Saga. I listened to the book on an e-reader, and it worked well in that fashion - I could imagine these tales being told by a bard over feasts, long ago, but when they were already old stories. Through a circuitous narrative, jumping in time and place and person, and full of stories and sub-stories, we follow the journeys of three brothers - a warrior, a boat builder and a tamer of horses - and of their unscrupulous half brother who would usurp them all. Reading it, I felt keenly the dangers and harshness of the time, the ever-presence of rivals, the uncertainty of survival. Fergus, the brother who will become the first king of a barely united Scotland, is at the centre of this tale, and in his narrative arc one sees him come of age, take on the mantle of authority, suffer setbacks, grow wise - out of the few details of an uncertain "history", the author has created a rich and interesting figure who seemed both completely of his time and immediately compelling. The other two brothers are also well drawn and I cared about their fate, admired their courage and felt grateful for their loyalty - just as I minded about the treachery of the disloyal and ambitious half brother is also always there in their struggle. Most of all I loved the two key women of this story - the first an older woman who brings Fergus's father to manhood, the second the girl with whom Fergus falls in love, who must marry another but whom he cannot forget,. Their love story is both glorious and heartbreaking. There are so many stories between these covers. A rich, rewarding read.
Amys Bookshelf Reviews

Literally Epic!  Rowena Kinread writes a grand historical family saga with the Scots of Dalriada. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. The reader is introduced to brothers, Fergus, Loarn, and Angus, all princes, but they are dealing with a family problem, namely their half-brother who finds that power is a powerful thing to misuse, and is an unusually unpredictable villain. Each brother has their own fate, yet they need to realize that they have to work together, rather than separately. This story is full of twists, and unpredictability, along with having to deal with loyalty, betrayal, and even murder. It takes place in historical Scotland, and I found it interesting from the beginning to the end. There was a lot going on in the story, but the basis is the connection of the brothers, and how it brings the whole story together. This is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. An emotional rollercoaster. A definite attention grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. The Scots of Dalriada is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
Sharon Martin 

Set in 5th century Scotland, The Scots of Dalraida is an engaging story that tells the story of three brothers called Fergus, Loarn and Angus who a Princes of the Dalraida. As the brothers are forced into exile by their scheming half-brother Cartan and the druidess Birga One-tooth. The story is full of many twists and turns when the brothers are forced to separate and hide from their vengeful half-brother. Leaving behind all they know the brothers have to get used to being on their own and try to settle in their new lives. As time passes and they strive to build a life for themselves they realise they need to work together to secure future for themselves. This is a very well written story that keeps you interested and engaged from start to finish. A very enjoyable read.
Susan_ Writeups

I love reading historical fiction. Rather than the well-known historical stuff I would prefer reading ones which are less explored. This book, The Scots of Dalriada written by Rowena Kinread is one such unique read for me. The story takes us on a journey through the history of Scotland and England. I would say that the way the author has narrated the story will shift the readers to those historical periods and places along with the bookish characters ! Undoubtedly, those who read this book will love it for sure. The Scottish Kingdom was established after merging with the Gaelic Kingdom which was one of the toughest journeys to go through. The entire story is set around this idea. The story focuses on the journey of the three brothers named Fergus, Loarn and Angus who were exiled. The issues, the problems and the tragedies they face are all depicted in the story! One thing that amazed me was - they kept fighting hard for what they actually need even during their toughest times. The way the author has concluded the story was quite satisfying!  The flow of the story is medium paced. I loved reading this captivating story and would recommend it to my fellow readers as well.
Rohit

This book is amazing. I really enjoyed this masterpiece.
Bibliophileverse

The Scots of Dalriada takes you to a historical world where valor is everything. It is very little we know about the history of Scotland and England, how they came into power at first. But the book takes you on a journey of action and adventure, family drama and revenge to entertain you till last. All the characters have a distinct role to play. The book felt like I am watching a movie.

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