Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Book Review - A Kingdom's Cost: A Historical Novel of Scotland (The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 1) By J.R. Tomlin

 Oh look, here is another book that you need to add to your to-read list! 


A Kingdom's Cost: A Historical Novel of Scotland 
(The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 1)
By J.R. Tomlin


They killed his father, stole his lands, and imprisoned the woman he loved. Now, he will become their darkest nightmare.

Voyage to Scotland in the year 1305, a nation ravaged by war and tyranny. Young James Douglas, returning from France, witnesses the execution of his hero, William Wallace, and the brutal subjugation of his homeland by the English. However, upon learning of Robert the Bruce's plan to resist and restore Scotland's freedom, James swears his fealty and joins the rebellion. As they confront treachery and defeats, he finds solace in the arms of a courageous noblewoman.

When she is captured by their enemies and James is unable to rescue her, he confronts a choice that shatters his soul. Soon, he is known as the fearsome Black Douglas, but will his ruthlessness in battle and his thirst for revenge consume him entirely?

Immerse yourself in the enthralling first part of the Black Douglas trilogy, 'A Kingdom's Cost.' With its spellbinding characters, heart-pounding battle scenes, and rich historical details, this narrative by JR Tomlin will keep you engrossed. If you enjoyed 'Ill-Made Knight' or 'The Winter King,' then this gripping historical saga is a must-read.



One word, three letter and an exclamation mark - WOW! What a book and what a story. There is nothing quite like a novel that starts with an execution. I mean, what could be worse? Living like outlaws with your king and fighting not only a superior army but also bickering clans! 

The story follows a young James Douglas. He may be young in years but he is a patriot and a loyal supporter of Robert the Bruce - he will literally follow the Bruce through hell and back again. He is a character that really captured my attention and I quickly became full invested in his story. This book is a very emotional read, so I did find myself reaching for the tissues several times. It is also pretty violent, which should come as no surprise considering the era.

I listened to this book on audio and I thought the narrator did a fabulous job of bring this story and these characters to life. 

This book is the first in a series and I cannot wait to read book 2.


This is one of those books that really deserves your undivided attention. If you would like to read/listen to this book then you can find it over on Amazon.

J R Tomlin
J R Tomlin is the author of nineteen historical novels. 

Her historical novels are mainly set in Scotland. You can trace her love of that nation to the stories her grandmother read her when she was small and to her hillwalking through the Cairngorms where the granite mountains have a gorgeous red glow under the setting sun. 

In addition to spending time in Scotland, she has traveled in the US, mainland Europe and the Pacific Rim. She now lives in Oregon.




1 comment:

  1. Another great review, Maddie. I have added A Kingdom's Cost to my to-read list.

    ReplyDelete

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