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Company of Rogues #1
An Honourable Thief
1715. A tale of two cities, and the man caught between them.
The Kingdom is riddled with a rumour. The late Queen Anne supposedly left a secret will promising the nation to her half-brother James – the man the Jacobites call the King Over the Water. With George I now settled on the throne, this document could prove devastating.
Enter Jonas Flynt. Gambler. Thief. Killer. Man of honour. A reluctant member of the Company of Rogues, a shady intelligence group run by the ruthless Colonel Charters, Flynt is ordered to recover the document, using any means necessary. But he is not the only one on the hunt…
The trail takes him from London’s dangerous streets to the dark Edinburgh of his childhood, where Flynt is soon embroiled in a long overdue family reunion, a jail break and a brutal street riot.
Come what may he must uncover the truth, about the crown... and about his own past...
An atmospheric and utterly compelling blend of crime, history and thriller, to delight fans of S. G. MacLean, S. W. Perry and C. J. Sansom.
The Kingdom is riddled with a rumour. The late Queen Anne supposedly left a secret will promising the nation to her half-brother James – the man the Jacobites call the King Over the Water. With George I now settled on the throne, this document could prove devastating.
Enter Jonas Flynt. Gambler. Thief. Killer. Man of honour. A reluctant member of the Company of Rogues, a shady intelligence group run by the ruthless Colonel Charters, Flynt is ordered to recover the document, using any means necessary. But he is not the only one on the hunt…
The trail takes him from London’s dangerous streets to the dark Edinburgh of his childhood, where Flynt is soon embroiled in a long overdue family reunion, a jail break and a brutal street riot.
Come what may he must uncover the truth, about the crown... and about his own past...
An atmospheric and utterly compelling blend of crime, history and thriller, to delight fans of S. G. MacLean, S. W. Perry and C. J. Sansom.
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2022
166 people are currently reading
1131 people want to read
About the author
Douglas Skelton
41 books136 followersDouglas has been a shelf stacker, bank clerk, tax officer, factory worker, advertising salesperson, taxi driver (for two days), wine waiter (for two hours), journalist and criminal investigator. His early books were all in true crime or criminal history but now he writes fiction, beginning with the Davie McCall series. The final book in the series, OPEN WOUNDS, has been longlisted for the McIlvanney Prize 2016, alongside such authors as Ian Rankin, Val McDermid, Lin Anderson, Doug Johnstone and James Oswald.
His next book is THE DEAD DON'T BOOGIE, which will kick off a new series.
His next book is THE DEAD DON'T BOOGIE, which will kick off a new series.
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August 5, 2024Historical thriller rather overburdened with research, and with characters prone to giving each other precis of the politics and recent history of their times. There are dark doings and lots of sordor. What there isn't is a Company of Rogues as promised by the series title and also the spymaster: there's just one rogue, which I found disappointing as some sort of Georgian heist setup would have been cool.
March 23, 2024
3.7 rounded up to 4 stars is my actual rating.
It really took me a long time to get into the book and to get fond of the characters but finally, almost halfway through the novel I felt involved in the plot.
The author divided the story into 3 main parts.
-----> Part 1 starts with a lot of action and humorous lines by the main character and the villains and other people around him.
I generally love action and also humorous books. I dare say that action+humour+mystery-or-and-adventure is the perfect mix for me, but I had a great problem with this story.
The humorous lines were indeed so exasperated and the dialogues with jokes so long that they sound ridiculous, it sounded like reading an old hard boiled starring Sam Spade ( do you know The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett ? ) with a fatal female or some comics starring Spider or Batman... I expected to read "boom, splash, boing, gulp, crack and so one " at any moment !
I take the author wrote PART 1 of the book as a sort of introduction to the hero and his way of living... but too many chapters with action and jokes with no real substance...it felt more like a competition between the hero and his adversaries to prove who was the coolest.
___ THE PLOT begins in fact with Jonas Flint, the hero, who despite having been a thief and a scoundrel, works as a sort of secret agent for an important character who in turn works for the monarchy.
The action I was talking about takes place during a mission, in which the character shows off all his James Bond skills, with guns, sword and dagger and during the danger and fighting he also has time to joke non-stop.
We are in 1715 London and the main mission of the book is to recover a document written by the dying queen, which could compromise the future of the throne and the stability of England in a period in which the Jacobite uprisings are already causing unrest and death.
Part 1 also introduces the historical setting of the novel.
When a sovereign has no direct heirs there's always great tension and a great risk of riots, revolts and wars to gain power...
------> PART 2 was a little more serious and far better than the first one.
It takes the reader into the hero's past life and and deeper into the patriotic feelings of the people, especially the Scots towards the English monarchy, in the daily difficulties of common people and in the dullness of thought that, at that time, saw slavery as normal.
The intelligence and sensitivity and goodness of heart of a few people were unfortunately subject to the arrogance of rich people and those of aristocratic rank.
In this second part there is no shortage of moments of lightness or ironic and nice jokes, but here I was able to appreciate them because they were well-dosed (not too many and forced, nor non-existent) and skilfully mixed with deep feelings and emotions.
In this second part I began to grow fond of the characters and suffered with them in difficult moments.
Although Jonas' mission was always important and always his final goal, the second part explores more the introspective side of the main character and his family/friends.
Talking about characters, the main ones are fictional, but they are well blended with real historical figures and you'll find many clarifications on the matter in the author's final notes.
---> Part 3 is also interesting and engaging.
Even if it's more focused on the main mission (to recover the important and dangerous document), all the events of the second part come to a head.
There are a couple of very important twists and if one is a little bit predictable by the reader ( I expected that ), the other one is really surprising and I have to warn you: it's a little bit sad and bitter.
Overall I'm happy to say that I liked the book and I'm thinking of reading the next one in the series too.
The series is named "Company of Rogues" and it includes 3 total works.
Each book is readable as a standalone, but I think that reading all three in a row gives the reader a more complete vision of the soul of Jonas Flint, the hero. This is very important because Jonas is not a hero without reproach and I must admit that at the beginning I wasn't happy to have a protagonist who killed people left and right, even if they were villains... But his past helps the reader to accept him and at least in this first book, we also see the good sides of his soul and the shame he feels in having led a certain kind of life.
WARNING : some crude and bloody scenes are present in the book, just as the language of certain characters is crude and trivial.
Sorry for my bad English, it's not my native language and thanks for reading my review.
I hope my opinion and impressions can be useful to you when deciding whether to read this historical fiction or not.
It really took me a long time to get into the book and to get fond of the characters but finally, almost halfway through the novel I felt involved in the plot.
The author divided the story into 3 main parts.
-----> Part 1 starts with a lot of action and humorous lines by the main character and the villains and other people around him.
I generally love action and also humorous books. I dare say that action+humour+mystery-or-and-adventure is the perfect mix for me, but I had a great problem with this story.
The humorous lines were indeed so exasperated and the dialogues with jokes so long that they sound ridiculous, it sounded like reading an old hard boiled starring Sam Spade ( do you know The Maltese Falcon by Dashiell Hammett ? ) with a fatal female or some comics starring Spider or Batman... I expected to read "boom, splash, boing, gulp, crack and so one " at any moment !
I take the author wrote PART 1 of the book as a sort of introduction to the hero and his way of living... but too many chapters with action and jokes with no real substance...it felt more like a competition between the hero and his adversaries to prove who was the coolest.
___ THE PLOT begins in fact with Jonas Flint, the hero, who despite having been a thief and a scoundrel, works as a sort of secret agent for an important character who in turn works for the monarchy.
The action I was talking about takes place during a mission, in which the character shows off all his James Bond skills, with guns, sword and dagger and during the danger and fighting he also has time to joke non-stop.
We are in 1715 London and the main mission of the book is to recover a document written by the dying queen, which could compromise the future of the throne and the stability of England in a period in which the Jacobite uprisings are already causing unrest and death.
Part 1 also introduces the historical setting of the novel.
When a sovereign has no direct heirs there's always great tension and a great risk of riots, revolts and wars to gain power...
------> PART 2 was a little more serious and far better than the first one.
It takes the reader into the hero's past life and and deeper into the patriotic feelings of the people, especially the Scots towards the English monarchy, in the daily difficulties of common people and in the dullness of thought that, at that time, saw slavery as normal.
The intelligence and sensitivity and goodness of heart of a few people were unfortunately subject to the arrogance of rich people and those of aristocratic rank.
In this second part there is no shortage of moments of lightness or ironic and nice jokes, but here I was able to appreciate them because they were well-dosed (not too many and forced, nor non-existent) and skilfully mixed with deep feelings and emotions.
In this second part I began to grow fond of the characters and suffered with them in difficult moments.
Although Jonas' mission was always important and always his final goal, the second part explores more the introspective side of the main character and his family/friends.
Talking about characters, the main ones are fictional, but they are well blended with real historical figures and you'll find many clarifications on the matter in the author's final notes.
---> Part 3 is also interesting and engaging.
Even if it's more focused on the main mission (to recover the important and dangerous document), all the events of the second part come to a head.
There are a couple of very important twists and if one is a little bit predictable by the reader ( I expected that ), the other one is really surprising and I have to warn you: it's a little bit sad and bitter.
Overall I'm happy to say that I liked the book and I'm thinking of reading the next one in the series too.
The series is named "Company of Rogues" and it includes 3 total works.
Each book is readable as a standalone, but I think that reading all three in a row gives the reader a more complete vision of the soul of Jonas Flint, the hero. This is very important because Jonas is not a hero without reproach and I must admit that at the beginning I wasn't happy to have a protagonist who killed people left and right, even if they were villains... But his past helps the reader to accept him and at least in this first book, we also see the good sides of his soul and the shame he feels in having led a certain kind of life.
WARNING : some crude and bloody scenes are present in the book, just as the language of certain characters is crude and trivial.
Sorry for my bad English, it's not my native language and thanks for reading my review.
I hope my opinion and impressions can be useful to you when deciding whether to read this historical fiction or not.
September 22, 2022
Many thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for this Advanced Reader Copy and the opportunity to review An Honourable Thief. All opinions and comments are my own.
This rousing “historical adventure thriller” finds ex-soldier Jonas Flynt caught between his Scottish family and friends and the necessity of fulfilling his (unwelcome) duty to the English court in An Honourable Thief. It becomes quite the page-turner, filled with derring-do and dark alleys, an alluring femme fatale, and plenty of crosses and double-crosses. Author Douglas Skelton, acknowledged for his many contemporary crime novels, obviously knows his way around “the mean streets,” whether it’s 21st century or 17th century Edinburgh.
Our premise: Did Queen Anne leave a will naming her Catholic half-brother, James as her successor? The Succession to the Crown Act says the Hanoverian Elector George Louis, conveniently Protestant, must come and take the throne. Can’t have a Catholic! Obviously, this document better not exist. And if it does exist, it’s got to be found and made to disappear. And that’s where Jonas comes in, for it becomes known that “a document” is supposedly in Scotland, being offered to the highest bidder.
Jonas Flynt is a fully-realized character, definitely a man of action. You’ll learn much about him, including a lot of family drama. Ah, just to be clear - there are a couple of rather horrific scenes, when Jonas is having flashbacks to some battlefield memories. They are very graphic, so be advised.
And for the history buffs, there’s quite a bit of that going around, too, with real people and historical topics included. If you know anything about James, the “Old Pretender” as he was popularly styled, that knowledge can only come in handy. And near the end readers are at the Battle of Sheriffmuir, where all that has gone before comes to a head for Jonas -- and others. Finally, there’s rather an interesting “twist,” if you can call it that. I thought it was kind of a late-down after everything else, but that’s just me. This is the first in a series, so Jonas has definitely got work to do, and there are characters he will be meeting up with again, no doubt -- remember that femme fatale I mentioned. An Honourable Thief delivers on that premise of “adventure thriller,” and should keep your attention from the beginning.
The end of the book offers up author’s notes which talk about the history behind the story, and what’s known about “that will.” Let’s just say that the American colonies gained their independence from a Protestant king, not a Catholic one. But that’s a bit in the future, isn’t it.
This rousing “historical adventure thriller” finds ex-soldier Jonas Flynt caught between his Scottish family and friends and the necessity of fulfilling his (unwelcome) duty to the English court in An Honourable Thief. It becomes quite the page-turner, filled with derring-do and dark alleys, an alluring femme fatale, and plenty of crosses and double-crosses. Author Douglas Skelton, acknowledged for his many contemporary crime novels, obviously knows his way around “the mean streets,” whether it’s 21st century or 17th century Edinburgh.
Our premise: Did Queen Anne leave a will naming her Catholic half-brother, James as her successor? The Succession to the Crown Act says the Hanoverian Elector George Louis, conveniently Protestant, must come and take the throne. Can’t have a Catholic! Obviously, this document better not exist. And if it does exist, it’s got to be found and made to disappear. And that’s where Jonas comes in, for it becomes known that “a document” is supposedly in Scotland, being offered to the highest bidder.
Jonas Flynt is a fully-realized character, definitely a man of action. You’ll learn much about him, including a lot of family drama. Ah, just to be clear - there are a couple of rather horrific scenes, when Jonas is having flashbacks to some battlefield memories. They are very graphic, so be advised.
And for the history buffs, there’s quite a bit of that going around, too, with real people and historical topics included. If you know anything about James, the “Old Pretender” as he was popularly styled, that knowledge can only come in handy. And near the end readers are at the Battle of Sheriffmuir, where all that has gone before comes to a head for Jonas -- and others. Finally, there’s rather an interesting “twist,” if you can call it that. I thought it was kind of a late-down after everything else, but that’s just me. This is the first in a series, so Jonas has definitely got work to do, and there are characters he will be meeting up with again, no doubt -- remember that femme fatale I mentioned. An Honourable Thief delivers on that premise of “adventure thriller,” and should keep your attention from the beginning.
The end of the book offers up author’s notes which talk about the history behind the story, and what’s known about “that will.” Let’s just say that the American colonies gained their independence from a Protestant king, not a Catholic one. But that’s a bit in the future, isn’t it.
January 4, 2023
This was a 5-star read for me.
It's 1715, Queen Anne has recently died, putting a Hanovarian king, George I, on the British throne. There is a rumor that Queen Anne wrote a will naming her half-brother, James Edward Stuart, as her successor. The will has not been found, but there is fear that, should it exist and the Jacobites obtain it, they would try to replace George with James Edward.
Enter Jonas Flynt, an ex-soldier with a history leaving him open to blackmail by the government to get him to work for them as part of their Company of Rogues. It is his job to find the will and return it. His quest leads him back to his home of Edinburgh where he reunites with his family and friends, but serious trouble ensues.
It is a well-written, page-turning story weaving fiction within history, with a bit of a twist at the end that caught me by surprise. There is a second book in the series coming soon, and I hope more after that.
It's 1715, Queen Anne has recently died, putting a Hanovarian king, George I, on the British throne. There is a rumor that Queen Anne wrote a will naming her half-brother, James Edward Stuart, as her successor. The will has not been found, but there is fear that, should it exist and the Jacobites obtain it, they would try to replace George with James Edward.
Enter Jonas Flynt, an ex-soldier with a history leaving him open to blackmail by the government to get him to work for them as part of their Company of Rogues. It is his job to find the will and return it. His quest leads him back to his home of Edinburgh where he reunites with his family and friends, but serious trouble ensues.
It is a well-written, page-turning story weaving fiction within history, with a bit of a twist at the end that caught me by surprise. There is a second book in the series coming soon, and I hope more after that.
January 2, 2023
Skelton uses this sympathy of Anne for her half-brother to create the plotline for the first in his series. Did Anne leave a will naming her half-brother as her successor - and what are the repercussions if such a document was to come to light. Enter the shadowy Colonel Nathaniel Charters and his Company of Rogues; and Charles Talbot, Duke of Shrewsbury and Lord High Treasurer, a life long Catholic who was in secret communication with James after Anne's death. Whose side either of them are on is open for question.
Skelton does well to convey the atmosphere of secrecy, betrayal and rebellion that permeated the lives of those not only in England but also Scotland, where politics was not just based upon party and family lines but religion as well.
I am looking forward to the next in this historical fiction crime series.
read more here @ Melisende's Library
Skelton does well to convey the atmosphere of secrecy, betrayal and rebellion that permeated the lives of those not only in England but also Scotland, where politics was not just based upon party and family lines but religion as well.
I am looking forward to the next in this historical fiction crime series.
read more here @ Melisende's Library
September 12, 2022
This historical crime thriller is perfect for fans of Andrew Taylor, C J Sansom, S G Maclean and many other notable historical crime writers. Starting with the death of Queen Anne we see the machinations of the politicians protecting the throne from her exiled Catholic half brother James Stuart. Enter Jonas Flynt, a man with a dangerous past who is part of Colonel Charters Company of Rogues, he is commanded to search for a dangerous document which could bring chaos to the throne. With a fine cast of support characters, a pacy plot , solid historical details and some nice twists to boot, this will tick alot of historical readers boxes.
dnf
July 31, 202520% більше не можу. Занудно і якось кострубато. Зараз абсолютно немає бажання продиратися крізь щось подібне.
May 16, 2025
One of the reviews on the front cover described this book as "high-octane" and I fear that if whoever wrote that read a single Agatha Christie book their heart would explode from sheer excitement.
September 23, 2022
Discover the locations in An Honourable Thief
A novel to transport you to London and Edinburgh
1715. What a time to travel back to Edinburgh and the mean streets of London. We are in Jacobite territory and right in the heart of the English court and parliament.
I’ve been wanting a series like this for a while and I think I have it. I’ve been reading a few novels set around Jacobite times but none of them a series so this fits my bill! George I is King but Queen Anne before him is said to have left the kingdom to her half-brother James in a secret will. Needless to say, if this will is found, it could prove disastrous to the monarchy and to the people of the country.
Now that is some interesting backdrop. And, it’s just the start. The real story starts when Jonas Flynt enters stage left. He’s a gambler and a killer but also a man of honour. He’s a great character from the off. A Jack the lad, lovable rogue but you wouldn’t want to double cross him. He gets the job of finding that secret will. Well he is a member of the Company of Rogues. Not that he particularly wants to be.
The problem is of course that he’s not the only one that knows about this will and is prepared to look for it. That’s when we get the biggest adventures of the novel as we head from London to Scotland on the hunt, a very dangerous hunt, for a document that could change everything.
I loved the intricate atmosphere and attention to detail of this story and love Jonas. I can picture Luke Evans in the role if it ever comes to TV. Which it should.
August 27, 2022
Jonas Flynt is a man with a dark past, which has forced him to become a member of a shady intelligence group run by Colonel Chambers.
Chambers has heard a rumour that, when Queen Anne died, she may have left a will naming her half brother (The Young Pretender) as king. But the will has been stolen, and Chambers wants Flynt to get it back... by any means. But it's not long before Flynt finds out, that he's not the only one searching for it.
This is an atmospheric, fast paced read, set in London and Edinburgh in the early 1700s. It's gritty and at times violent.
I really enjoyed this, even though it felt predictable in places, I'll definitely read the next one.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC.
Chambers has heard a rumour that, when Queen Anne died, she may have left a will naming her half brother (The Young Pretender) as king. But the will has been stolen, and Chambers wants Flynt to get it back... by any means. But it's not long before Flynt finds out, that he's not the only one searching for it.
This is an atmospheric, fast paced read, set in London and Edinburgh in the early 1700s. It's gritty and at times violent.
I really enjoyed this, even though it felt predictable in places, I'll definitely read the next one.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC.
September 11, 2023
Excellent, not least because I knew absolutely nothing about Queen Anne, last of the Stuarts. Great story.
September 10, 2024
There is a mysterious will written by Queen Anne bequeathing the kingdom to her half brother. The existence of such a will threatens the stability of the country. And so it must be found.
This is the plot driving this historic fiction onward. However, as it is aptly titled, the book is in fact the story of Jonas Flynt, an honourable thief. He works for money and would not think twice if a killing is needed but his acts have dignity and honour. Of this he is proud. The novel is set partly in London and partly in bonnie Scotland. It brings to life the streets of Camden town as well as it does the many wynds of enigmatic Edinburgh. Powered by excellent prose and storytelling, this novel makes for an engaging read.
The first 30-40 pages set the stage and introduce characters through detailed developments. Stick through this part as the plot will impress you well enough then onwards.
This is the plot driving this historic fiction onward. However, as it is aptly titled, the book is in fact the story of Jonas Flynt, an honourable thief. He works for money and would not think twice if a killing is needed but his acts have dignity and honour. Of this he is proud. The novel is set partly in London and partly in bonnie Scotland. It brings to life the streets of Camden town as well as it does the many wynds of enigmatic Edinburgh. Powered by excellent prose and storytelling, this novel makes for an engaging read.
The first 30-40 pages set the stage and introduce characters through detailed developments. Stick through this part as the plot will impress you well enough then onwards.
June 15, 2023
Douglas Skelton does an amazing job forming Jonas Flynt as a mixture of mercenary, highwayman, and PI from a time long past.
Selecting 1715 England as the setting was a perfect choice. Death of one monarch, the ascension of another. Uncertainty and plots abounding.
The author dares the tricky terrain of having his main character return home, meeting with his past as he’s going about a mission. This is navigated well, although I found it mostly unnecessary to enjoy the adventure Flynt is sent on.
Selecting 1715 England as the setting was a perfect choice. Death of one monarch, the ascension of another. Uncertainty and plots abounding.
The author dares the tricky terrain of having his main character return home, meeting with his past as he’s going about a mission. This is navigated well, although I found it mostly unnecessary to enjoy the adventure Flynt is sent on.
September 1, 2022
1715 Did the late Queen Anne leave a Will naming her half-brother, Catholic James Stuart, her heir to the Kingdom. Colonel Charters assigns one of his Company of Rogues, Jonas Flynt, to find the document. But he is not the only one searching.
A well-written fast paced historical thriller and mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A well-written fast paced historical thriller and mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2022
This Historical thriller from Douglas Skelton is a fine addition to the genre as Jonas Flint and his Company of Rogues spin a rip roaring tale through 1700 England and Scotland.
Quick pacing, likeable characters and dastardly enemies all make for a great read which is highly researched and clearly from a highly knowledgeable author.
Violent battles and cutthroat mischief galore, the story really motors through to an extremely well done finale that packs a great and unexpected twist.
The start I hope of a new series!
Quick pacing, likeable characters and dastardly enemies all make for a great read which is highly researched and clearly from a highly knowledgeable author.
Violent battles and cutthroat mischief galore, the story really motors through to an extremely well done finale that packs a great and unexpected twist.
The start I hope of a new series!
October 12, 2022
An Honourable Thief is fiction but is flavoured with real life events and people, resulting in a historical novel which is rich in atmosphere and which sizzles with danger and intrigue. It's the first in Douglas Skelton's new series and introduces Jonas Flynn; exuding menace, tormented by guilt and memories of the battlefield and with a dark past which has left him open to blackmail, he springs from the page and is a superbly compelling character from the moment he first appears.
It's obvious from the start that Flynn is a complex, enigmatic man – utterly ruthless yet driven by a moral code which sets him apart from many of the people he deals with in the alleys. taverns and shadows of 18th century London. The sights, sounds and smells of life in 1715 permeate the novel throughout and the sense of time and place is exceptional. However, as well as the pitch-perfect historical setting, what's also fascinating about An Honourable Thief is that there are several parallels which can be drawn between then and now.
The book opens with the death of Queen Anne and as the last Stuart monarch she has been succeeded by George, Elector of Hanover who becomes George I. Rumours persist, however, that Anne may have written a letter stating her wish that her Catholic half-brother, James Francis Edward Stuart should become king following her death. Flynn's chequered past means he is now beholden to Colonel Nathaniel Charters and is amongst his network of hand-picked spies known as his Company of Rogues. Charters contends that it his his duty to do what he can to protect England, by fair means or foul and while Flynn purports not to care about the security of the nation, he has his own sense of honour, which coupled with the knowledge that to cross Charters would result in him facing the hangman's noose, ensures he is prepared to do whatever it takes to hunt down this letter.
Of course, he isn't the only person seeking such a valuable document and just as there are those who are determined to protect the Crown, there are others who would dearly love to be able to strengthen the Jacobite call to arms with a letter naming the King Over the Water as Anne's successor. Flynn follows the trail to Edinburgh and back to the home he walked away from in search of adventure as a young man.
He returns home a changed man and finds a mixed welcome awaiting him. His family and friends believed him dead and not everyone is pleased to see him. As he revisits his memories, he must confront his mistakes and his reunion with his youthful companions is emotional, eventually leading to a tense and moving set-piece which is based on a real-life event and which examines the desire for justice and retribution to devastating effect. The politics of the day, with the Treaty of the Union leaving many Scots feeling cheated are particularly resonant and the chasm between the rich and powerful, and the rest emphasise still further how these historical events continue to influence current issues.
Flynn is a consummate gambler but as he risks everything in pursuit of the letter, he has a worthy adversary in the beguiling Madame de Fontaine and the chemistry between them is electrifying at times. The storyline twists and turns towards its dramatic conclusion and abounds with revelations and surprises right to the end. The result is a wonderfully suspenseful, exciting thriller that delivers everything it promises and more. An Honourable Thief is a thumping good read and the prospect of more to come from Jonas Flynn is mouth-watering – I can't wait! Very highly recommended.
It's obvious from the start that Flynn is a complex, enigmatic man – utterly ruthless yet driven by a moral code which sets him apart from many of the people he deals with in the alleys. taverns and shadows of 18th century London. The sights, sounds and smells of life in 1715 permeate the novel throughout and the sense of time and place is exceptional. However, as well as the pitch-perfect historical setting, what's also fascinating about An Honourable Thief is that there are several parallels which can be drawn between then and now.
The book opens with the death of Queen Anne and as the last Stuart monarch she has been succeeded by George, Elector of Hanover who becomes George I. Rumours persist, however, that Anne may have written a letter stating her wish that her Catholic half-brother, James Francis Edward Stuart should become king following her death. Flynn's chequered past means he is now beholden to Colonel Nathaniel Charters and is amongst his network of hand-picked spies known as his Company of Rogues. Charters contends that it his his duty to do what he can to protect England, by fair means or foul and while Flynn purports not to care about the security of the nation, he has his own sense of honour, which coupled with the knowledge that to cross Charters would result in him facing the hangman's noose, ensures he is prepared to do whatever it takes to hunt down this letter.
Of course, he isn't the only person seeking such a valuable document and just as there are those who are determined to protect the Crown, there are others who would dearly love to be able to strengthen the Jacobite call to arms with a letter naming the King Over the Water as Anne's successor. Flynn follows the trail to Edinburgh and back to the home he walked away from in search of adventure as a young man.
He returns home a changed man and finds a mixed welcome awaiting him. His family and friends believed him dead and not everyone is pleased to see him. As he revisits his memories, he must confront his mistakes and his reunion with his youthful companions is emotional, eventually leading to a tense and moving set-piece which is based on a real-life event and which examines the desire for justice and retribution to devastating effect. The politics of the day, with the Treaty of the Union leaving many Scots feeling cheated are particularly resonant and the chasm between the rich and powerful, and the rest emphasise still further how these historical events continue to influence current issues.
Flynn is a consummate gambler but as he risks everything in pursuit of the letter, he has a worthy adversary in the beguiling Madame de Fontaine and the chemistry between them is electrifying at times. The storyline twists and turns towards its dramatic conclusion and abounds with revelations and surprises right to the end. The result is a wonderfully suspenseful, exciting thriller that delivers everything it promises and more. An Honourable Thief is a thumping good read and the prospect of more to come from Jonas Flynn is mouth-watering – I can't wait! Very highly recommended.
August 13, 2023
It was one of my childhood dreams to go to Scotland. After years of 'now is not the time' we finally planned a trip with my friends and I had the joy of discovering the wonderful city of Edinburgh. The old town is splendid, with hidden cafés and bookstores. I thought to myself: well, I can’t go home without buying any books here now, can I?
An Honourable Thief was one of the lucky books ending up in my suitcase. The story was happening in Edinburgh and hoped it was a sign.
It wasn’t.
The ego stroking
The novel is not badly written per se. It has beautiful prose and I think it can be appreciated by the right audience. I, however, grew tired very quickly of pages and pages of male posturing. That and the way all the characters were somehow impressed by the hero one way or another. As if they were created only to butter him up, or remark on his darkness/arrogance/wittiness etc. A very difficult thing to read when the only thing I thought about Jonas Flynt was how annoying he was.
The pacing
‘Mr Wild, delightful though this conversation is, I have business elsewhere. Is it not about time that you told me why you sent your men to fetch me?’
Yes, please, I would be delighted too. In this novel, be prepared for long conversations of nothingness, then some fighting, then conversations of nothingness again. There was a moment toward the end of the book where I thought we were getting somewhere but I still was bored. And it was perhaps mostly due to Jonas Flynt having the worst case of plot armour I have seen in a long time.
Mister Jonas Flynt
What an annoying character. Not only does the author regroup in one man all the clichés you can find in a (supposedly) anti-hero, but that man is the epitome of cringe. He 'smiles knowingly or 'glares at a man' and suddenly that character is afraid of the nasty glare and decides not to punch him. And don't even get me started on how he is a good man for standing up for prostitutes and wanting the end of slavery. I know the author did a lot of research for his book to be historically accurate, but I can't help but have the ick when something so 'normal' is considered amazing for that man. Like, the bar is on the floor and we are supposed to clap?
Female characters
Let us simply say that it is obvious a woman did not write this book.
In conclusion, I would say the only thing stopping me from giving that book one star is the fact it has, objectively, beautifully structured sentences. The story, the characters, the pacing... all of that is a no from me.
An Honourable Thief was one of the lucky books ending up in my suitcase. The story was happening in Edinburgh and hoped it was a sign.
It wasn’t.
The ego stroking
The novel is not badly written per se. It has beautiful prose and I think it can be appreciated by the right audience. I, however, grew tired very quickly of pages and pages of male posturing. That and the way all the characters were somehow impressed by the hero one way or another. As if they were created only to butter him up, or remark on his darkness/arrogance/wittiness etc. A very difficult thing to read when the only thing I thought about Jonas Flynt was how annoying he was.
The pacing
‘Mr Wild, delightful though this conversation is, I have business elsewhere. Is it not about time that you told me why you sent your men to fetch me?’
Yes, please, I would be delighted too. In this novel, be prepared for long conversations of nothingness, then some fighting, then conversations of nothingness again. There was a moment toward the end of the book where I thought we were getting somewhere but I still was bored. And it was perhaps mostly due to Jonas Flynt having the worst case of plot armour I have seen in a long time.
Mister Jonas Flynt
What an annoying character. Not only does the author regroup in one man all the clichés you can find in a (supposedly) anti-hero, but that man is the epitome of cringe. He 'smiles knowingly or 'glares at a man' and suddenly that character is afraid of the nasty glare and decides not to punch him. And don't even get me started on how he is a good man for standing up for prostitutes and wanting the end of slavery. I know the author did a lot of research for his book to be historically accurate, but I can't help but have the ick when something so 'normal' is considered amazing for that man. Like, the bar is on the floor and we are supposed to clap?
Female characters
Let us simply say that it is obvious a woman did not write this book.
In conclusion, I would say the only thing stopping me from giving that book one star is the fact it has, objectively, beautifully structured sentences. The story, the characters, the pacing... all of that is a no from me.
August 19, 2024
It feels cruel to give this book as few stars as I have... but it's honestly how I felt.
I'll tell you that it does have great things in it - and that's partly why I was so disappointed in the end. The premise is original and intriguing, the locations under-utilised for the period, and the author has earned so many brownie points from me for engaging with topics that are usually ignored, stereotyped or sensationalised beyond recognition in the genre. Legitimately, some of the most sensitive approaches to slavery, racism, sex work and sexual violence I've seen in a book of this kind.
Sadly, the execution is where it all falls apart. There are so many instances of infodumping about things that could so easily have been shown within the story - or worse, literally did not need to be - that it made the already blunt, straightforward prose feel even more wooden and awkward. Every plot beat was telegraphed so hard and the outcome so utterly obvious that it felt like I was less reading a book and more playing a game of stoplights. The characters, who have so much interesting potential, feel so shallow and by-the-numbers that it's impossible to care much about them. The plot twists are weak, and don't mean anything at all in the end.
And finally, a personal gripe... but I thought we all knew it was a bad idea to phonetically spell out characters' accents by now. Especially when the author demonstrably does not know how historic or regional slang works. Half of London sounds like a schoolchild's rendition of the Artful Dodger, and I shall not get into how uncomfortable the mangled Scots/Scottish phrasing was. Suffice to say it was.
One could certainly do worse... but simply for how disappointed I am in how much potential this book had, and how much I found it missed all of it entirely, I will simply say that you could very easily, also, do a lot better.
I'll tell you that it does have great things in it - and that's partly why I was so disappointed in the end. The premise is original and intriguing, the locations under-utilised for the period, and the author has earned so many brownie points from me for engaging with topics that are usually ignored, stereotyped or sensationalised beyond recognition in the genre. Legitimately, some of the most sensitive approaches to slavery, racism, sex work and sexual violence I've seen in a book of this kind.
Sadly, the execution is where it all falls apart. There are so many instances of infodumping about things that could so easily have been shown within the story - or worse, literally did not need to be - that it made the already blunt, straightforward prose feel even more wooden and awkward. Every plot beat was telegraphed so hard and the outcome so utterly obvious that it felt like I was less reading a book and more playing a game of stoplights. The characters, who have so much interesting potential, feel so shallow and by-the-numbers that it's impossible to care much about them. The plot twists are weak, and don't mean anything at all in the end.
And finally, a personal gripe... but I thought we all knew it was a bad idea to phonetically spell out characters' accents by now. Especially when the author demonstrably does not know how historic or regional slang works. Half of London sounds like a schoolchild's rendition of the Artful Dodger, and I shall not get into how uncomfortable the mangled Scots/Scottish phrasing was. Suffice to say it was.
One could certainly do worse... but simply for how disappointed I am in how much potential this book had, and how much I found it missed all of it entirely, I will simply say that you could very easily, also, do a lot better.
October 16, 2022
I recently discovered Douglas Skelton's thriller and I'm loving them. This one is a well plotted and compelling historical mystery that kept me hooked.
The well researched historical background is vivid and the solid mystery kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
The well researched historical background is vivid and the solid mystery kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
April 20, 2023
A great historical mystery adventure of cat and mouse set during the Jacobite rebellion of the 18th century. But who is the cat and who is the mouse? The characters leap off the pages and the balance of narrative and dialogue is perfect. I love a good Scots tales and this is among the best! I am looking forward to the sequel!
September 25, 2022
It is 1715. Queen Anne has just died and rumours abound of a secret letter to her half brother, James Stuart, making him the successor to the throne. The Jacobites feel this would be in their favour, a point of view not shared by the government who are desperate to ensure the document, should it exist, doesn't fall into the wrong hands. Particularly in light of the Jacobite rebellion building in Scotland. Jonas Flynt, a reluctant member of Colonel Charters' Company of Rogues, is tasked with retrieving it. He soon discovers he's not the only person searching for the letter, coming into contact more than once with the attractive, mysterious Madame de Fontaine. And the trail takes him back north to Edinburgh and to the family and friends he left years ago. Returning home means he has to face some hard truths... whilst also trying to complete the job at hand.
Firstly, I have to say how much I learned reading this book. Yes, it's a work of fiction, but it's rooted in real history, real events are unfolding which frame the story, and Skelton knows his stuff. My history knowledge generally is very weak and these were events I knew shamefully little about. Well, now I know more. Partly from what's in the book and partly because it sparked my interest to look into it a wee bit further. It's peppered throughout with historical words and phrases, and some are brilliantly descriptive.
Jonas Flynt is an interesting, intriguing character. Not afraid to steal or cheat, he also has a strong sense of what is right. Whilst extremely adept at fighting, it's not something he enjoys, it's not done for pleasure. He feels things deeply. And he's a tortured soul, something that Skelton explores to great effect over the course of the novel. Whilst generally controlled with his emotions, we sometimes see a glimpse of them escaping, but only in front of the right people. I found his homecoming to Edinburgh heartwarming and sad, in equal measure. He can be very humorous and has the best names for his pistols! But, whilst he is undoubtedly the central character in this story, he is supported by a large, colourful supporting company with each character beautifully described. Standouts for me were Cassie and Rab.
The scene setting is incredible. The streets in both London and Edinburgh are so vividly described. And the smells... oh my goodness! I don't have a sense of smell but even I could detect the aroma! We are totally transported back to the 18th century - the outfits, the ale houses, style of dress, the way people carry themselves, speech, attitudes to and expectations of women, attitudes to people of colour, everything. It's marvellous and immersive. The backdrop to the story is the Jacobiterising following the unification of England and Scotland so politics gets a fair airing here. And, it would seem, that we haven't moved on much since 1715 - I certainly recognised a lot of the feelings and anger expressed, I see it around me every day. And politicians and governments haven't got any better since then either.
It's beautifully written, Skelton has a way with words. He talks of nights of 'sup and sin' and mists that swirl like 'sinuous creatures'. I want to visit The Black Bear 'prone to rowdiness, drunkenness and licentiousness' - sounds just my mind of place! And there are a few fantastic, colourful insults, My favourite coming from a brothel madam - I'll leave you the joy of discovering it.
The storyline itself has everything you could ask for - part crime story, part spy thriller and part epic adventure. There's politics and plenty of fighting, secrets, lies and betrayal. A public hanging and a visit to the battlefield at Sheriffmuir. And a man coming home, facing family and friends for the first time in years. It's not an easy homecoming and there were moments my heart ached for Jonas and one that brought tears to my eyes.
This will easily be one of my favourite books of the year.
Firstly, I have to say how much I learned reading this book. Yes, it's a work of fiction, but it's rooted in real history, real events are unfolding which frame the story, and Skelton knows his stuff. My history knowledge generally is very weak and these were events I knew shamefully little about. Well, now I know more. Partly from what's in the book and partly because it sparked my interest to look into it a wee bit further. It's peppered throughout with historical words and phrases, and some are brilliantly descriptive.
Jonas Flynt is an interesting, intriguing character. Not afraid to steal or cheat, he also has a strong sense of what is right. Whilst extremely adept at fighting, it's not something he enjoys, it's not done for pleasure. He feels things deeply. And he's a tortured soul, something that Skelton explores to great effect over the course of the novel. Whilst generally controlled with his emotions, we sometimes see a glimpse of them escaping, but only in front of the right people. I found his homecoming to Edinburgh heartwarming and sad, in equal measure. He can be very humorous and has the best names for his pistols! But, whilst he is undoubtedly the central character in this story, he is supported by a large, colourful supporting company with each character beautifully described. Standouts for me were Cassie and Rab.
The scene setting is incredible. The streets in both London and Edinburgh are so vividly described. And the smells... oh my goodness! I don't have a sense of smell but even I could detect the aroma! We are totally transported back to the 18th century - the outfits, the ale houses, style of dress, the way people carry themselves, speech, attitudes to and expectations of women, attitudes to people of colour, everything. It's marvellous and immersive. The backdrop to the story is the Jacobiterising following the unification of England and Scotland so politics gets a fair airing here. And, it would seem, that we haven't moved on much since 1715 - I certainly recognised a lot of the feelings and anger expressed, I see it around me every day. And politicians and governments haven't got any better since then either.
It's beautifully written, Skelton has a way with words. He talks of nights of 'sup and sin' and mists that swirl like 'sinuous creatures'. I want to visit The Black Bear 'prone to rowdiness, drunkenness and licentiousness' - sounds just my mind of place! And there are a few fantastic, colourful insults, My favourite coming from a brothel madam - I'll leave you the joy of discovering it.
The storyline itself has everything you could ask for - part crime story, part spy thriller and part epic adventure. There's politics and plenty of fighting, secrets, lies and betrayal. A public hanging and a visit to the battlefield at Sheriffmuir. And a man coming home, facing family and friends for the first time in years. It's not an easy homecoming and there were moments my heart ached for Jonas and one that brought tears to my eyes.
This will easily be one of my favourite books of the year.
September 20, 2022
Full teaser review to be published 23 September 2022 at https://wellreadpiratequeen.blogspot....
I felt a little strange about the timing of this since I started it about an hour before learning of Queen Elizabeth II's passing … and it begins with the passing of Queen Anne. I kind of just let it sit and stew for a few days while I grieved and tried to wrap my head around things.
Of course, the two women were wildly different. QEII left a legacy that spanned almost a century … as well as a line of legitimate heirs. Anne's reign was far shorter (a mere ___ years) and there were no surviving children for easy succession. There was, however, a half-brother in Scotland and rumor of a secret will that would give him the throne. The brother, of course (well, "of course" if you're as much of a nerd about such things as I am), was James Francis Edward Stuart.
Jonas Flynt, a former soldier and current member of the clandestine Company of Rogues, was tasked with finding the will … assuming it even existed … and this is our story.
Oh, what a story it is!
Flynt is amazing. He's cynical and snarky and will fight for what and whom he believes in … and, if paid enough, even for what and whom he doesn't.
****************************************
‘Tell me, Flynt, you do not believe in kings or princes,’ said Charters. ‘You do not believe in nobles or politicians. Not the law nor the judiciary. Not God nor clergy. Is there anything in this world that you do believe in?’
Flynt thought for a moment before he answered. ‘I believe in Tact and Diplomacy, Colonel.’ He picked up his slender silver stick from where it rested against the arm of his chair. ‘And when that fails, Surprise.’
****************************************
Tact and Diplomacy are Flynt's pistols.
Surprise is the blade hidden in his cane.
I love this man.
All sorts of Bernard Cornwell vibes were going on when I was reading and that is never a bad thing. There's quite a lengthy backlog of Skelton books on Goodreads and I may venture into some of his other non-historical series at some point, but even if this is all I ever read I will still call myself a fan.
I felt a little strange about the timing of this since I started it about an hour before learning of Queen Elizabeth II's passing … and it begins with the passing of Queen Anne. I kind of just let it sit and stew for a few days while I grieved and tried to wrap my head around things.
Of course, the two women were wildly different. QEII left a legacy that spanned almost a century … as well as a line of legitimate heirs. Anne's reign was far shorter (a mere ___ years) and there were no surviving children for easy succession. There was, however, a half-brother in Scotland and rumor of a secret will that would give him the throne. The brother, of course (well, "of course" if you're as much of a nerd about such things as I am), was James Francis Edward Stuart.
Jonas Flynt, a former soldier and current member of the clandestine Company of Rogues, was tasked with finding the will … assuming it even existed … and this is our story.
Oh, what a story it is!
Flynt is amazing. He's cynical and snarky and will fight for what and whom he believes in … and, if paid enough, even for what and whom he doesn't.
****************************************
‘Tell me, Flynt, you do not believe in kings or princes,’ said Charters. ‘You do not believe in nobles or politicians. Not the law nor the judiciary. Not God nor clergy. Is there anything in this world that you do believe in?’
Flynt thought for a moment before he answered. ‘I believe in Tact and Diplomacy, Colonel.’ He picked up his slender silver stick from where it rested against the arm of his chair. ‘And when that fails, Surprise.’
****************************************
Tact and Diplomacy are Flynt's pistols.
Surprise is the blade hidden in his cane.
I love this man.
All sorts of Bernard Cornwell vibes were going on when I was reading and that is never a bad thing. There's quite a lengthy backlog of Skelton books on Goodreads and I may venture into some of his other non-historical series at some point, but even if this is all I ever read I will still call myself a fan.
September 21, 2022
1715 and there is a rumour that the late Queen Anne made a secret will promising the nation to her half brother James. With George I now on the throne this could prove devastating if the Jacobites got hold of it.
Colonel Chartres entrusts Jonas Flynt, a member of his Company of Rogues, a shady intelligence group, to retrieve this document. The journey takes him from the dangerous streets of London to his hometown of Edinburgh, where he must face the ghosts of his past as well as try to secure the future of the Union.
Jonas Flynt is my favourite kind of character - a rogue with a code of honour. He’s battle scarred from his past as a soldier and feels adrift with no sense of belonging. Skelton has created a complex and empathetic hero, one who I instantly warmed to.
This is an action packed novel, full of intrigue and excitement but it also felt more than that. Flynt’s reunion with his family and friends were the beating heart of this novel and produced some incredibly touching moments.
Real historical events were woven within the story which I always love and the atmosphere and sense of place were very well done with Edinburgh described so evocatively. The writing was superb, the story smart, and the secondary characters were compelling - especially Madam de Fontaine who I really hope we’ll see again. A fantastic read and I eagerly await the next volume!
Many thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Colonel Chartres entrusts Jonas Flynt, a member of his Company of Rogues, a shady intelligence group, to retrieve this document. The journey takes him from the dangerous streets of London to his hometown of Edinburgh, where he must face the ghosts of his past as well as try to secure the future of the Union.
Jonas Flynt is my favourite kind of character - a rogue with a code of honour. He’s battle scarred from his past as a soldier and feels adrift with no sense of belonging. Skelton has created a complex and empathetic hero, one who I instantly warmed to.
This is an action packed novel, full of intrigue and excitement but it also felt more than that. Flynt’s reunion with his family and friends were the beating heart of this novel and produced some incredibly touching moments.
Real historical events were woven within the story which I always love and the atmosphere and sense of place were very well done with Edinburgh described so evocatively. The writing was superb, the story smart, and the secondary characters were compelling - especially Madam de Fontaine who I really hope we’ll see again. A fantastic read and I eagerly await the next volume!
Many thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
September 16, 2022
I’m a huge lover of historical fiction & have enjoyed the authors previous books so was delighted to receive an early proof for this one.
Jonas Flint is certainly an interesting character. An ex-soldier and honourable rogue who is now tasked with retrieving a letter from the late Queen Anne that could change the course of history.
The book begins in London and we get a taste for the type of man Jonas is and the company he keeps.
The search for the letter soon takes him home to Edinburgh. As much as I love historical fiction I especially enjoy it when it is set in my hometown.
Really felt that the book ramped up when Jonas got to Edinburgh.
The action went up a notch but also we learned more of Jonas' character and background.
Despite his long absence, the ties to friends and family and how much he had missed them was evident. His character and even his language mellowed as he slipped back into Scots & familiar banter with his friends. The story demonstrated how we can never truly really leave home no matter how much we may want to.
Alongside Jonas there are some great characters in the book. I especially enjoyed Madam de Fontaine - definitely a match for Jonas and more than capable of keeping him on his toes. I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of her throughout the series
Well structured and well researched, this is a great read with plenty of action and twists along the way.
Very much looking forward to the rest of the series
Jonas Flint is certainly an interesting character. An ex-soldier and honourable rogue who is now tasked with retrieving a letter from the late Queen Anne that could change the course of history.
The book begins in London and we get a taste for the type of man Jonas is and the company he keeps.
The search for the letter soon takes him home to Edinburgh. As much as I love historical fiction I especially enjoy it when it is set in my hometown.
Really felt that the book ramped up when Jonas got to Edinburgh.
The action went up a notch but also we learned more of Jonas' character and background.
Despite his long absence, the ties to friends and family and how much he had missed them was evident. His character and even his language mellowed as he slipped back into Scots & familiar banter with his friends. The story demonstrated how we can never truly really leave home no matter how much we may want to.
Alongside Jonas there are some great characters in the book. I especially enjoyed Madam de Fontaine - definitely a match for Jonas and more than capable of keeping him on his toes. I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of her throughout the series
Well structured and well researched, this is a great read with plenty of action and twists along the way.
Very much looking forward to the rest of the series
February 2, 2025
Narrated by David Monteath
Jonas Flynt, ex soldier, ex-highwayman, has been blackmailed into the Company of Rogues, run by government spymaster Nathaniel Charters. Set in 1715 – at the time of the first Jacobite rising - the late Queen Anne’s papers have gone missing and Charters fears the papers might have included a will which will upset the Hanoverian succession. Jonas is sent to seek out the will – but when the trail leads him from the shady streets of London back to his native Edinburgh, his estranged family, and the woman he once loved, life gets complicated. Weaving a fictional story around real events and historical characters, this is a fascinating tale well told. Expect riots, skullduggery, unexpected revelations (and one twist you can see coming a mile off).
Jonas Flynt, ex soldier, ex-highwayman, has been blackmailed into the Company of Rogues, run by government spymaster Nathaniel Charters. Set in 1715 – at the time of the first Jacobite rising - the late Queen Anne’s papers have gone missing and Charters fears the papers might have included a will which will upset the Hanoverian succession. Jonas is sent to seek out the will – but when the trail leads him from the shady streets of London back to his native Edinburgh, his estranged family, and the woman he once loved, life gets complicated. Weaving a fictional story around real events and historical characters, this is a fascinating tale well told. Expect riots, skullduggery, unexpected revelations (and one twist you can see coming a mile off).
May 30, 2023
Following in the steps of Scott and Stevenson this is a marvellous Scottish adventure story set in 1715, when the Hanoverian King George I had just assumed the throne. As for many of the ensuing years Jacobites wishing to restore the Stuarts were active and the author’s fierce protagonist, Jonas Flynt, finds himself in the middle of one of their plots. Atmospheric and obviously well-researched, this is a marvellous book and I look forward to reading the next in the series.
April 30, 2025
This was a decent read for my train commutes but just had a bit too much explanation of the history / politics in the dialogue itself for me which made the way the characters spoke to each other quite unrealistic. I enjoyed a lot of the characters and their dynamic but I think the author could have done more exciting things with the so-called ‘Company of Rogues’ etc. There were a decent couple of twists at the end but unfortunately I’m not hooked enough to carry on with the series!
January 12, 2025
Fast paced, a tormented man that you want to follow
September 20, 2025
2.75 ⭐️ Started off good but then the story got a bit lost. Too much description meaning key plot points were shoehorned in at the last minute. The middle was unnecessary! Hopefully the series improves as it goes on as I think it has potential
August 31, 2023
Great book, great story. I'm looking forward to getting my teeth into a new series.
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