Honours Even

by nigel-tranter

Book by Tranter, Nigel

Genres: Historical Fiction, Scotland

358 pages, Hardcover

First published December 7, 1995

Reviews

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nigel Tranter is one of the great historical novelists, especially since his many books are based on the rich and often tragic history of Scotland. Honours Even is set in the mid 17th century, when the army of Oliver Cromwell invades Scotland. The story is seen through the eyes of a young minor nobleman named James Ramsay, who apparently was a historical character. Tranter has this young Ramsay involved in the theft of the crown, scepters, and sword used in the coronation of Scotland's kings from English-occupied Edinburgh Castle, and helping to protect it during an English siege of Dunnotar Castle in Northeastern Scotland.

Unfortunately, Cromwell defeats the Scottish forces in this novel; but soon he himself will be defeated ... by English politics. It was to be another 50 years before the Act of Union which attempted to make Scotland subject to the English crown (despite two subsequent and bloody rebellions in 1715 and 1745).

I greatly enjoy reading Tranter and reliving through the eyes of his characters the pageant of Scottish history.

[Peter Dettlaff · Rating 3 out of 5]

If nothing else, a detailed description of Scottish geography

[Bill Membery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read on Cromwell and Scotland

Enjoyed the political intrigue, scenic descriptions and culture of the time.
Great battle and warfare tactics explained, in particular the use of artillery.