Dorothy Dunnett’s KING HEREAFTER – A Wonderful Portrayal of MacBeth, King of Scots, His Times and the Woman He Loved

May is Scottish Historical Romance month on the blog and I’m beginning with a deep one. After having read Dunnett’s Lymond Chronicles (which I highly recommend), I couldn’t wait to read this book before moving on to her House of Niccolo series. She is such a good storyteller, and there are many twists and turns and insightful dips into history. (You have to love history, however, and tolerate some vague references, as there are many names and many historical figures.)

Thanks to Shakespeare, the historical MacBeth, King of Scots has been much maligned as a bad actor. From my research for my novel The Refuge, set in 11^th century Scotland, I knew Shakespeare got it wrong. In King Hereafter, Dorothy Dunnett brings us into the wild, half-pagan country of Scotland in those early days.

 

MacBeth begins as an ungainly young Earl Thorfinn with a lowering brow and a taste for intrigue. He calls himself Thorfinn but his Christian name is MacBeth. (Dunnett equates the historical MacBeth with Thorfinn Sigurdsson, Earl of Orkney, whose sons, Paul and Erlend ruled jointly for many years after their father’s death.)

 

Dunnett shows us MacBeth’s transformation from an angry, fatherless boy who refuses to accept his meager share of Orkney to an accomplished warrior and diplomat who wisely joins with King Canute and Queen Emma to become a respected leader of men.

 

His wife, Groa (who is made the same woman as the historical Ingibiorg Finnsdottir, wife of Earl Thorfin of Orkney), is a wonderful character who you will come to love. With the people of Alba and Groa behind him, Thorfinn becomes King of Scots. His heart is still in Orkney but he has a new concern for Alba, even going to Rome to see the Pope about clerics for Alba.

 

This is very much a love story, a romance even though rich in history. The ending is bittersweet and very well done. I felt rather melancholy after reading the last page.

 

If you would like to experience the court of King Malcolm III, the King of Scots who followed MacBeth, consider my novel, The Refuge, winner of the Illumination Gold Medal Award. See it on my website HERE.

Gina Conkle’s TO FIND A VIKING TREASURE – An Exciting Viking Tale!

Set in 1022 in the kingdom of Svea (Sweden), this is the story of warring Viking leaders and a rough yet noble warrior who serves the man who saved his life. Brandr wants to leave Uppsala to start a new life, but his desire to protect the slave, Sestra, keeps him from leaving.

Sestra is a thrall who has known only abuse from men who lust after her beauty. But when she tells the Viking leader of a treasure hidden by their enemy, Brandr and she are sent to find it. To Sestra, Brandr is a mysterious figure, a man of strength whose only words are ones meant to tease yet he always treats her with respect.

This is a Viking version of lost on a desert isle. Alone and facing the enemy who would be eager to kill them, Brandr and Sestra discover passion between them as they fight to survive. Choices must be made by each as to what is truly important. Brandr is a freeman and Sestra longs to be free. She hopes the treasure will bring her that freedom.

Conkle has obviously done considerable research into the Viking life, which enriches the tale. Some exciting scenes will hold your attention and for those who like a spicy romance, Conkle has delivered a romance with many scintillating love scenes.

The Norse series:

Norse Jewel

To Find a Viking Treasure

To Steal a Viking Bride

To Heal a Viking Heart

Emma Merritt’s VIKING CAPTIVE – Engaging though sometimes Unlikely Viking Tale

Though no date is given, this story is likely set in the early 11^th century when the Norse made voyages to the new world (the author’s note seemed to confirm this).

Kelda, Viking woman of the Norse and adopted daughter of Thoruald, one of their jarls, leads a mission to the new world to find her chief’s child, born nearly thirty years ago to an Iroquois woman Thoruald married and left behind when he sailed for home. (A half Norse boy, recently taken by the Vikings in a raid upon the new world, wears an armband Thoruald gave his Indian wife and the Norse jarl believes the boy is his grandson, hence Kelda’s mission.) Upon their arrival, Kelda and her warriors are seized by the Iroquois who want vengeance for the last Viking raid two years ago.

Thoruald’s son, now Chief Brander of the Iroquois, wants nothing to do with his Nordic father or the Norsemen who killed his Iroquois wife and daughters before stealing his young son, but he will take the Viking woman Kelda as his slave for vengeance.

Merritt portrayed well the two cultures warring within Brander causing him great angst even as his Iroquois mother pleaded for him to embrace who he was. The heroine, however, was somewhat confusing. She could be smart and brave one minute and turn to mush the next.

Effectively raped by her captor (a forced seduction), our Viking heroine nevertheless decides Brander has captured her heart. While Kelda occasionally gets angry, those incidents seemed like minor fits compared to her overwhelming physical attraction for Brander. Still, she manages to hatch a plot that will bring all her warriors and Brander back to Norway.

Merritt has obviously done considerable research into the Viking way of life and did a great job of showing us the culture and travel on a Viking dragon ship. And the story was intriguing…a Viking encounter with the Iroquois Indians of the new world. All that was to the good.

Despite a few negatives, I found the story engaging, and for fans of Merritt, the detractions may be insignificant. I am a fan of her work and she can certainly tell a good story.

Anita Mills’ LADY OF FIRE – A Keeper with a Great Heroine!

For medieval romance lovers, this one should be on your keeper shelf. I loved it, and though it was my first by Mills, it was not my last.

Set in 11^th Century Normandy and England, this is the story of Eleanor of Nantes, daughter of a Norman count. She is young and innocent, but oh so courageous and spirited. When William I first encounters her defending her bastard half-brother, Roger FitzGilbert, the king is taken with her and would betroth her to his own son, Henry. But fate takes a harsh turn upon her mother’s death and 12-year-old Eleanor is sent to a convent to stay until she is 19. And another would swear to have her, rich, powerful and cruel Robert of Belesme. Her heart, however, belongs to Roger, who unknown to her, is not her brother at all.

Eleanor is a heroine to admire, consistent in her strength, intelligence and nobility of character. Roger is the kind of knight every woman longs for. He sees all Eleanor’s faults and loves her passionately, proudly, notwithstanding. Robert of Belesme, the villain who is obsessed with Eleanor, is terrible and cruel yet also strangely sympathetic. The story is rich in historical details with an intricately woven plot, fast-moving dialog and action. It’s a page-turner and so well written. I recommend it!

The Fire Series:

Lady of Fire

Fire and Steel

Hearts of Fire

The Fire and The Fury

Winter Roses

Kathleen Woodiwiss’ THE WOLF AND THE DOVE – Medieval Romance That Grabs Your Heart!

This is a classic by Kathleen Woodiwiss, one of her best. It’s also a bodice ripper so be prepared.

It begins in 1066 just after William the Conqueror has claimed England. One of his most trusted knights and a bastard like William, Wulfgar ("the Iron Wolf of Normandy") is sent to hold Darkenwald for his sire. But arriving a day before, one of the Wolf's knights, Ragnor, who unlike his superior, is of noble Norman blood, takes the castle and delivers a harsh message to the people, one the Wolf would not have sanctioned. This results in the death of the Darkenwald's lord and many of his serfs. Ragnor also claims the fair Saxon princess, Aislinn, lady of Darkenwald, who hates him for the murder of her father, his brutal attack and all he has taken from her.

When the Wolf arrives, he gives Aislinn a choice between him or Ragnor. Hating Ragnor, she chooses the Wolf though, in truth, she hates them both. The Wolf hates women for his mother's betrayal and treats them all as casual property. And that is the way he begins with Aislinn. Wulfgar rapes her and makes her his whore (Aislinn's word). But the proud, beautiful and selfless Aislinn remains the fair lady caring for her people. He warns Aislinn not to love him as he will leave her. But Aislinn is a new breed of woman he's never encountered before and soon she is under his skin.

This is a grand tale of a tumultuous time in history with deception, treachery and jealousy woven into a tapestry of wonderful characters. There are jousts, sword fights, battles and more. Who could not desire the handsome Wulfgar? Who could not come under the spell of the beautiful saint-like Aislinn? Ah...it is timeless!

Bertrice Small’s A MOMENT IN TIME – Unusual Medieval Historical Romance Even for Small that is also a Fantasy

A fantasy as well as a historical romance set in 11^th century Wales and England, this is the story of Wynne of Gwernach who, because of a past life, does not believe in love. She loves her family (her brother and sister) and her family estate in Wales. As she is about to become betrothed to a demanding suitor, Madoc of Powys enters her life, claiming they have been betrothed since she was a babe. What she doesn’t know is that Wynne and Madoc were lovers in another life where she was the Princess of the Fair Folk who fell in love with a mortal who ultimately failed her miserably.

Bertrice Small’s historical romances often lead the reader down a winding path with many trails leading away from the main love story. This is one of those. After having wed Madoc, Wynne is taken captive by Madoc’s evil brother and sold into slavery in England. There, Wynne leads another life away from Madoc. (Here’s where the story becomes a bodice ripper.)

The story gets off to a slower start than one might like but there are enough historical details to let you know the story set in a true historical time. Still, there are flights of fantasy (the hero, Madoc, can change his shape into a raven) that let you know this is something of a fairy tale. I prefer Small’s deeper historicals like the Border Lord series.

FREE! The Red Wolf's Prize, book 1 in the Award-winning Medieval Warriors Series

Free for a limited time the story that began it all on all Amazon sites: 

US, UK, Canada, Australia, India.

“Beautifully written, perfectly paced, action packed, with a passionate and epic love affair...what more could you ask for? 5 stars.” — The Book Review

HE WOULD NOT BE DENIED HIS PRIZE

Sir Renaud de Pierrepont, the Norman knight known as the Red Wolf for the beast he slayed with his bare hands, hoped to gain lands with his sword. A year after the Conquest, King William rewards his favored knight with Talisand, the lands of an English thegn slain at Hastings, and orders him to wed Lady Serena, the heiress that goes with them.

SHE WOULD LOVE HIM AGAINST HER WILL

Serena wants nothing to do with the fierce warrior to whom she has been unwillingly given, the knight who may have killed her father. When she learns the Red Wolf is coming to claim her, she dyes her flaxen hair brown and flees, disguised as a servant, determined to one day regain her lands. But her escape goes awry and she is brought back to live among her people, though not unnoticed by the new Norman lord.

Deprived of his promised bride, the Red Wolf turns his attention to the comely servant girl hoping to woo her to his bed. But the wench resists, claiming she hates all Normans.

As the passion between them rises, Serena wonders, can she deny the Norman her body? Or her heart?

Gina Conkle’s TO FIND A VIKING TREASURE – An Exciting Viking Tale!

January is Viking month! Stay with us as I present some wonderful stories of those Norsemen of long ago. I’m beginning with an exciting one my Gina Conkle.

Set in 1022 in the kingdom of Svea (Sweden), this is the story of warring Viking leaders and a rough yet noble warrior who serves the man who saved his life. Brandr wants to leave Uppsala to start a new life, but his desire to protect the slave, Sestra, keeps him from leaving.

Sestra is a thrall who has known only abuse from men who lust after her beauty. But when she tells the Viking leader of a treasure hidden by their enemy, Brandr and she are sent to find it. To Sestra, Brandr is a mysterious figure, a man of strength whose only words are ones meant to tease yet he always treats her with respect.

This is a Viking version of lost on a desert isle. Alone and facing the enemy who would be eager to kill them, Brandr and Sestra discover passion between them as they fight to survive. Choices must be made by each as to what is truly important. Brandr is a freeman and Sestra longs to be free. She hopes the treasure will bring her that freedom.

Conkle has obviously done considerable research into the Viking life, which enriches the tale. Some exciting scenes will hold your attention and for those who like a spicy romance, Conkle has delivered a romance with many scintillating love scenes.

The Norse series:

Norse Jewel

To Find a Viking Treasure

To Steal a Viking Bride

To Heal a Viking Heart

Anita Mills’ LADY OF FIRE – A Keeper with a Great Heroine!

For medieval romance lovers, this one should be on your keeper shelf. I loved it, and though it was my first by Mills, it will not be the last.

Set in 11^th Century Normandy and England, this is the story of Eleanor of Nantes, daughter of a Norman count. She is young and innocent, but oh so courageous and spirited. When William I first encounters her defending her bastard half brother, Roger FitzGilbert, the king is taken with her and would betroth her to his own son, Henry. But fate takes a harsh turn upon her mother’s death and 12-year-old Eleanor is sent to a convent to stay until she is 19. And another would swear to have her, rich, powerful and cruel Robert of Belesme. Her heart, however, belongs to Roger, who unknown to her, is not her brother at all.

Eleanor is a heroine to admire, consistent in her strength, intelligence and nobility of character. Roger is the kind of knight every woman longs for. He sees all Eleanor’s faults and loves her passionately, proudly, notwithstanding. Robert of Belesme, the villain who is obsessed with Eleanor, is terrible and cruel yet also strangely sympathetic. The story is rich in historic details with an intricately woven plot, fast-moving dialog and action. It’s a page-turner and so well written. I recommend it!

The Fire Series:

Lady of Fire

Fire and Steel

Hearts of Fire

The Fire and The Fury

Winter Roses

Ashley York’s EYES OF THE SEER – Love Amidst Warring Clans in Medieval Ireland

Set in 1095 in Eire (Ireland), this is the story of Astrid and Marcán of Clonascra, both from the same clan but meant to marry others. Of marriageable age, Astrid is tempting to those young men who only want her virtue. And the neighboring clan has plenty of warriors who fall into that category.

Marcán, however, has proven himself as a warrior and a gentleman, guarding Astrid’s virtue while wanting her for his own. Born with different-colored eyes, a condition thought by some, including Astrid’s mother, to mark him as a disfavored seer, he must fight Astrid’s mother who wants Astrid marry out of their clan.

Urged on by her mother, Astrid seeks the attention of a man who initially only wants her for pleasure but then decides it is politically expedient to marry her.

The story is rich in historical detail and puts you into the medieval era as opposing clans vie for control. The language reflects an earlier time, which I quite liked.

One clan treats their women well; one does not. Our heroine is from the clan that treats women well, but she makes some very foolish choices and has difficulty speaking up for herself. Too, her mother dominates her. Marcán is a noble sort and no “seer”. He only wants to do right by Astrid, but he cannot be everywhere and keep Astrid from putting herself in troublesome positions.

Eventually it all comes right but getting there is the adventure. Fans of medieval romance set in Ireland will enjoy it.

Gina Conkle’s TO FIND A VIKING TREASURE - Exciting Viking Tale

Set in 1022 in the kingdom of Svea (Sweden), this is the story of warring Viking leaders and a rough yet noble warrior who serves the man who saved his life. Brandr wants to leave Uppsala to start a new life, but his desire to protect the slave, Sestra, keeps him from leaving.

Sestra is a thrall who has known only abuse from men who lust after her beauty. But when she tells the Viking leader of a treasure hidden by their enemy, Brandr and she are sent to find it. To Sestra, Brandr is a mysterious figure, a man of strength whose only words are ones meant to tease yet he always treats her with respect.

This is a Viking version of lost on a desert isle. Alone and facing the enemy who would be eager to kill them, Brandr and Sestra discover passion between them as they fight to survive. Choices must be made by each as to what is truly important. Brandr is a freeman and Sestra longs to be free. She hopes the treasure will bring her that freedom.

Conkle has obviously done considerable research into the Viking life, which enriches the tale. Some exciting scenes will hold your attention and for those who like a spicy romance, Conkle has delivered a romance with many scintillating love scenes.

The Norse series:

Norse Jewel

To Find a Viking Treasure

To Steal a Viking Bride

To Heal a Viking Heart

Read the Medieval Romance that Won the 2017 RONE Award!

King’s Knight, book 4 in the Medieval Warriors series, has won the 2017 RONE Award for best medieval romance!

See what the reviewers have said:

“… a tantalizing and intriguing tale of medieval chivalry, intrigue, passion, duty, honor and romance. Walker's knowledge of history shines through. Masterfully and brilliantly written!”  

 — My Book Addiction and More

“Wonderfully researched historical fiction, filled with romance, danger and intrigue. I fell for Sir Alexander the moment he rode through the gates of Talisand. Merewyn is fearless, unconventional, and yet vulnerable. The perfect pair!”   — Good Friends, Good Books

“A sweeping tale that pulls you in at the very beginning and doesn’t let you go. Along with a wonderfully developed romance, there is political intrigue and a great cast of supporting characters begging for their story to be told. It's medieval romance at its finest. Well done, Regan Walker! Very, very well done!”  

— The Reading Cafe    

“Enticing, captivating, and exciting!! Alex is the type of hero that makes my heart skip a beat. Regan Walker’s attention to historical details and authentic history is astounding!”   —  The Book Review 

The author's style reminds me a little of Sharon Penman… the history I was taught in school was incredibly dry but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will be looking for more of Regan Walker's work.   — Brutally Honest Reviews

HE SEIZED LIFE BY THE THROAT

Dubbed the Black Wolf for his raven hair, his fierceness in battle and his way with women, Sir Alexander of Talisand attacked life as he did the king’s enemies. But acclaim on the battlefield and his lusty escapades did not satisfy. King William Rufus would bind him to Normandy through marriage to one of its noblewomen, but the only woman Alexander wants is a commoner he saved from a terrible fate.

SHE KEPT MEN AT BAY WITH HER BOW

The shame of being the child of a Norman’s rape had dogged Merewyn’s steps from her youth. Determined never to be a victim of a man’s lust like her mother, in Wales she donned the garb of an archer and developed extraordinary skill with a bow. Despite her fair beauty, men now keep their distance. No longer in need of protection from other men, can Merewyn protect herself from Alexander when he holds her heart yet can never be hers?

See it on Amazon US, UK and Canada. And get the boxed set for the 4-book series!

Review: Ashley York’s THE SEVENTH SON – The Virgin Irish Bride Gets Her Man

Set in Ireland in 1075, this is the story of Tadhg MacNaughton, whose betrothal to Tisa O'Brien, arranged when they were children, was broken by his father before he died. Uncovering a terrible secret, Tadhg believes he knows why, but that doesn’t lessen the pain from losing the woman he loves.

Tisa O'Brien’s life suddenly changes when her father marries her to the son of another chieftain in order to gain warriors for their defense. Her new husband, Darragh of the Meic Lochlainn clan, doesn’t even want her. He prefers his male lover. Meanwhile she must deal with the lustful advances of her father-in-law, Aodh, and his men. The only one she wants is Tadhg, who she still dreams about.

To provide his clan food for the winter, Tadhg agrees to fight for Aodh, who is preparing an army to make himself the new High King of Eire. When a sinister plot to overthrow King William of England, led by the exiled Leofrid Godwin and Clan Meic Lochlainn, comes to light, Tadhg must decide if he will warn the Normans and save his sister, Brighit, and her husband. Meanwhile, he is tortured by having to be close to his former love who he believes is well and truly wed.

This is a tale of secrets, treachery and man’s cruelty and lust. Yet, in the midst of it, there are honorable men and women. Some exciting action scenes will keep you on the edge of your seat. And Tadhg and Tisa are worthy characters. It’s a well-written tale from 11^th century Ireland. Medieval fans of tales set in Ireland will enjoy it.