Summary of Trust and Treason by JR Tomlin

In the historical fiction Trust and Treason, author JR Tomlin treats us to the second installment of the historical fiction series the Douglas Bastard. Set in medieval Scotland following the disastrous battle at Neville’s Cross in 1346, a guilt-ridden Sir Archibald “The Grim” Douglas returns home to find Scotland under the thumb of the English troops. In a tactical error, the Scots are forced to fight on ground that is riddled with ditches and boulders. During the rout, many Scottish commanders and troops were killed, and others flee. The English capture many others, including the King of the Scotts David II and Sir William Douglas, the heroic Knight of Liddesdale, who raised Archibald like a son.

To atone, Sir Archibald organizes a small band to attack the English. It is his only remaining way to continue fighting for his King and for Scotland. His tactics are successful on a small scale until the discovery of power struggles between branches of his family and the breakout of the black plague in Scotland throw his efforts into disarray.

After the plague subsides, the English propose to ransom the King of Scots free if Edward III’s son is named in the succession for the Scottish throne. The ransom message was carried to the Scots by the paroled King David II himself.

Shocked by what he is hearing, Archibald, who is now in the service of Lord Douglas, soon faces an even greater test of his personal loyalty.

The book is gritty, vivid, and rich in historical detail—easily transporting me into the medieval Scotland. Though initially challenging, the archaic Scottish enriched the immersive experience. I also really enjoyed Ms. Tomlin’s interpretation of a portion of Sir Archibald’s story which does not appear the history books.

I enjoyed experiencing Archie’s trials. JR Tomlin’s Trust and Treason is a fantastic piece of historical fiction, a meticulously painted portrait of a principled and idealistic patriot. There was no surrender for Sir Archibald, and by the end of the story, is forced to choose between two painful options. The only thing that I wish would be a little different is to have a little more time between Archie’s decision and the final confrontation scene. I think exploring Archie’s likely conflicted feelings would have been prime internal conflict to see on the page.

Highly recommended for readers who enjoy historically grounded tales of loyalty, betrayal, and grit.

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