The Refuge: An Inspirational Novel of Scotland by Regan Walker

The Refuge: An Inspirational Novel of Scotland
Regan Walker
Copyright 2016
Regan Walker Publishing
E-book available on Amazon

The Story:
“Master storytelling transports you to medieval Scotland!” – Paula Quinn, New York Times Bestselling Author 

For anyone whose faith has ever faltered…

Scotland 1072

The Norman Conqueror robbed Steinar of Talisand of his noble father and his lands, forcing him to seek refuge in Scotland while still recovering from a devastating wound. At the royal court, Steinar becomes scribe to the unlettered King of Scots while secretly regaining his skill with a sword.

The first time Steinar glimpses the flame-haired maiden, Catrìona of the Vale of Leven, he is drawn to her spirited beauty. She does not fit among the ladies who have come to serve the devout queen. Not pious, not obedient and not given to stitchery, the firebrand flies a falcon!

Catrìona has come to Malcolm’s court wounded in spirit from the vicious attack on her home by Northmen who slayed her parents and her people. But that is not all she will suffer. The king has promised her to one of his favored warriors, but she has given her heart to a lowly scribe.

When all is lost, what hope is there for love? Can a broken heart be mended? Can a damaged soul be healed?

Meet Regan

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My Thoughts:
I love a historical novel. I can't get enough of them, as you can probably tell from a glance at my blog feed. Since I've been a reader for most of my life, I've seen it all. It's rare to find a book with a unique setting that is well done. Scotland has never been presented quite like in The Refuge. I just read a romance set during a similar time, and it was just so uninteresting by comparison!

Catriona and Steinar may not have the most sizzling chemistry at first, but the slow burn romance that develops from multiple meetings in service to the kind and queen, somehow works. I was a little upset that a few of the secondary characters didn't really have their romances unfold more on the page. I wish the ending was a little less rushed, and instead of an epilogue, we got a sequel. I can't get enough of these stories set outside of the "typical" periods I read in historical romance.

Even though The Refuge is labeled as an inspirational novel, I probably wouldn't call it that. It reads more like a general market book with some elements of faith. I read both types of books, so I didn't mind the strong violence and mild sexual content. For a self-published e-book, this is worth a read and a re-read later!

~My Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars~

*I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.*

 Happy Reading!