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Munro #1
Turn of the Tide
Old rivalries…new friendships…dangerous decisions.
Set in 16th Century Scotland Munro owes allegiance to the Cunninghames and to the Earl of Glencairn. Trapped in the 150-year-old feud between the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries, he escapes the bloody aftermath of an ambush, but he cannot escape the disdain of the wife he sought to protect, or his own internal conflict. He battles with his conscience and with divided loyalties – to age-old obligations, to his wife and children, and, most dangerous of all, to a growing friendship with the rival Montgomerie clan. Intervening to diffuse a quarrel that flares between a Cunninghame cousin and Hugh Montgomerie, he succeeds only in antagonizing William, the arrogant and vicious Cunninghame heir. And antagonizing William is a dangerous game to play…
Set in 16th Century Scotland Munro owes allegiance to the Cunninghames and to the Earl of Glencairn. Trapped in the 150-year-old feud between the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries, he escapes the bloody aftermath of an ambush, but he cannot escape the disdain of the wife he sought to protect, or his own internal conflict. He battles with his conscience and with divided loyalties – to age-old obligations, to his wife and children, and, most dangerous of all, to a growing friendship with the rival Montgomerie clan. Intervening to diffuse a quarrel that flares between a Cunninghame cousin and Hugh Montgomerie, he succeeds only in antagonizing William, the arrogant and vicious Cunninghame heir. And antagonizing William is a dangerous game to play…
320 pages, ebook
First published November 20, 2012
180 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 14, 2019
The Cunninghames and Montgomeries murdered each other regularly in the 16th century. The feud between these two Ayrshire families is well documented and provides the background to this book. It’s not enough, however, to fill 400 pages. There is no doubt the historical detail is very well researched and it’s interesting, to a point. Mary, Queen of Scots’ son, James VI (not yet I of England), brings home Anne of Denmark as his new queen. James has insisted the two families bury the hatchet but the uneasy truce is always going to end in slaughter. Some of the action takes place at court in Edinburgh, some in Stirling, and Skea brings the locations to life vividly.
At first, I was annoyed by the writing, drowning as I was in a sea of commas that liberally punctuate unwieldy sentences but I soon warmed to it and enjoyed the pace. By halfway through, however, I was wearying for lack of a story (I’m slipping into the language of the book which is scary!). At either end, like bookmarks, we have the feud. In between, there is endless domestic and historical detail, little of which moves the story on.
Margaret Skea writes well and I admire her ability to bring the period to life but there needs to be a strong storyline for historical fiction to work. For me, at least.
At first, I was annoyed by the writing, drowning as I was in a sea of commas that liberally punctuate unwieldy sentences but I soon warmed to it and enjoyed the pace. By halfway through, however, I was wearying for lack of a story (I’m slipping into the language of the book which is scary!). At either end, like bookmarks, we have the feud. In between, there is endless domestic and historical detail, little of which moves the story on.
Margaret Skea writes well and I admire her ability to bring the period to life but there needs to be a strong storyline for historical fiction to work. For me, at least.
August 1, 2015
Set in 16th century Scotland during the early days of James VI reign, this is the story of a family caught in the century old feud between two powerful families, the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries. The Earl of Glencairn (Cunninghame) and Earl of Eglingtoun (Montgomerie) are campaigning for political ascendency in James' court and will stop at little to get what they want. Munro, a minor laird and his wife just want a peaceful life with their children on their farm but are tied to the Cunninghames and must be at their beck and call even if they do not agree with their methods or the Earls drunken, malicious son William, Master of Glencairn. That there will be a sequel is clear from the ending and this first book sets up the scene for what promises to be an exciting continuation of the story. Recommended to lovers of Scottish history!
December 29, 2012
Margaret Skea's debut novel is the sort of gem that can increasingly be found among the small presses these days.
Choosing an underused period of history (the late 16th century) for the story, she tells a tale of feuding Scottish noble families each eager to gain the favour of the incumbent King, James VI. In amongst all the machinations is Munro, a man with loyalties to one side and friendships on the other.
The story is a good one, with plenty of political manoeuvring, violence, love and tragedy in the mix. The intrigue goes right to the final page and there's plenty of room for another novel to take Munro's story on to the next stage. One thing that stood out for me was the little details, the description of everyday life and the lot of the normal family just trying to survive in that time. That was wonderfully done.
The quality of Margaret's writing is also worth noting. Her research and the language she uses makes you believe that you're there, that you're seeing and hearing the people talking in a realistic way. The chaos and muck of a (for then) big city are illustrated just as effectively as the wide-open expanses of the highlands. Margaret also has a wonderful knack for beautiful similes and uses them effectively.
So, an excellent debut well worth seeking out, and, hopefully, we may get to read more from Margaret in the future.
Choosing an underused period of history (the late 16th century) for the story, she tells a tale of feuding Scottish noble families each eager to gain the favour of the incumbent King, James VI. In amongst all the machinations is Munro, a man with loyalties to one side and friendships on the other.
The story is a good one, with plenty of political manoeuvring, violence, love and tragedy in the mix. The intrigue goes right to the final page and there's plenty of room for another novel to take Munro's story on to the next stage. One thing that stood out for me was the little details, the description of everyday life and the lot of the normal family just trying to survive in that time. That was wonderfully done.
The quality of Margaret's writing is also worth noting. Her research and the language she uses makes you believe that you're there, that you're seeing and hearing the people talking in a realistic way. The chaos and muck of a (for then) big city are illustrated just as effectively as the wide-open expanses of the highlands. Margaret also has a wonderful knack for beautiful similes and uses them effectively.
So, an excellent debut well worth seeking out, and, hopefully, we may get to read more from Margaret in the future.
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June 23, 2025Munro and his family are fictional, the other main characters are historical and the feud itself was the most notorious in the history of Ayrshire. Beginning in 1488 it wasn't finally resolved until the 1670s, the intervening years punctuated by acts of brutality and reprisal on both sides.
Perhaps it was because I grew up in Northern Ireland through the worst of the Troubles that I was interested in writing about the pressures that living within conflict place on families, on relationships and on personal integrity. Munro is a flawed character whose choices, good and bad, impact on all those closest to him, sometimes with disastrous consequences.
This novel is set in the 16thc but the dilemmas faced by the main characters are mirrored in many parts of our modern-day world.
Perhaps it was because I grew up in Northern Ireland through the worst of the Troubles that I was interested in writing about the pressures that living within conflict place on families, on relationships and on personal integrity. Munro is a flawed character whose choices, good and bad, impact on all those closest to him, sometimes with disastrous consequences.
This novel is set in the 16thc but the dilemmas faced by the main characters are mirrored in many parts of our modern-day world.
September 2, 2013
This is an ambitious, almost sprawling novel based on an historically factual, generations-long dispute between two rival clans in 16th-century Scotland. A massacre occurs in the opening pages, and reprisals follow, until a very young King James (who will later move south to succeed Elizabeth) demands that the Cunninghames and Montgomeries make peace with one another. Suspicion and animosity remain, but the opposing leaders settle thereafter for vying for the king's favor via political maneuvers.
That's the context. Turn of the Tide is really about well-intentioned minor nobles and their families (some fictional, some real) who seek only to get on with their lives, raise their children, and meet their obligations. A pair of truly despicable louts make that no easy task. The cast of characters is substantial, and throughout the reading I often referred to the list at the front of the book to keep them straight. The main figure, however, is a laird named Munro--or perhaps it's his wife Kate. They owe allegiance to the Cunninghame side, but in the course of the story they realize the Montgomeries are more appealing. Specifically, they find a great deal of common ground with his opposite number, Hugh, Hugh's wife Elizabeth, and his winsome household.
The clans may have agreed to a truce, but such fraternizing is more than frowned upon. It's dangerous.
In reviewing another novel set in this same time period, I commented on the extra challenge of achieving a real understanding of the circumstances of the day. Margaret Skea has apparently made a serious study of the era, and the view into it she provides is likely as accurate as we're going to find. Her liberal use of archaic words (pauchled, forbye, ween, dreich, etc.) and Scottish diction ("The bairn is a fine wee lass and sonsy with it") continually reminded me that, if transported into that setting I would be incapable of understanding anything. (I discovered too late a comprehensive glossary at the end, but had managed to figure things out by context.) On the other hand, human nature is much the same everywhere. Most of us love children, appreciate a good spectacle, object to injustice, and are inclined to benevolence. And on that basis it's easy to enjoy this story. Having finished it, I'm still thinking about the characters, almost as if I knew them.
That's the context. Turn of the Tide is really about well-intentioned minor nobles and their families (some fictional, some real) who seek only to get on with their lives, raise their children, and meet their obligations. A pair of truly despicable louts make that no easy task. The cast of characters is substantial, and throughout the reading I often referred to the list at the front of the book to keep them straight. The main figure, however, is a laird named Munro--or perhaps it's his wife Kate. They owe allegiance to the Cunninghame side, but in the course of the story they realize the Montgomeries are more appealing. Specifically, they find a great deal of common ground with his opposite number, Hugh, Hugh's wife Elizabeth, and his winsome household.
The clans may have agreed to a truce, but such fraternizing is more than frowned upon. It's dangerous.
In reviewing another novel set in this same time period, I commented on the extra challenge of achieving a real understanding of the circumstances of the day. Margaret Skea has apparently made a serious study of the era, and the view into it she provides is likely as accurate as we're going to find. Her liberal use of archaic words (pauchled, forbye, ween, dreich, etc.) and Scottish diction ("The bairn is a fine wee lass and sonsy with it") continually reminded me that, if transported into that setting I would be incapable of understanding anything. (I discovered too late a comprehensive glossary at the end, but had managed to figure things out by context.) On the other hand, human nature is much the same everywhere. Most of us love children, appreciate a good spectacle, object to injustice, and are inclined to benevolence. And on that basis it's easy to enjoy this story. Having finished it, I'm still thinking about the characters, almost as if I knew them.
March 31, 2015
After avidly reading some of Nigel Tranter's novels whilst living up in Scotland last year it was a pleasure to read 'Turn of the Tide.' The long lasting feud between the Cunninghams and the Montgomeries in 16th Century Scotland reaches an uneasy truce due to King James but Kate, a character I felt so much empathy for, and her husband Munro felt the burden of past deeds and divided loyalties, leading to tragic consequences for some. The surprise that even their enemies were human and even quite pleasant resonated with me. You feel all the emotions in this well written novel, with language evocative of the period, from the joy of family life to fear, devastating loss and a heightened sense of danger. I look forward to Margaret Skea's next novel.
January 9, 2016
A very realistic, well researched historical novel. Based on a feud between two clans, The Montgomeries and the Cunninghames in Scotland 16th Century is well written and researched. I did enjoy this book that was recommended to me, although I will admit it took me a bit to get into as there were quite a lot of people/characters from the very beginning and I couldn’t seem to keep track of it all – hence the 4 stars. But once you get the characters sorted, it reads better. Going to start the sequel straight away and see what happens with them next!
March 2, 2015
This is so good, I'm keen to re-read it and T hope that Margaret Skea is busy writing more books!
June 4, 2013
This book is definitely not my usual type of reading, and I was a little apprehensive when starting it. Initially I found the different family allegiances etc. quite difficult to follow, and had to refer frequently to the list at the start of the book. As it went on, though, I began to get better at recognising who was who, allowing my reading (and so my experience of the story) to flow better. There were a couple of unexpected twists which kept me intrigued and the characters were generally engaging and well rounded. I'm hoping to see some of the lesser characters more developed/explored in a sequel...!
November 10, 2014
Scots historical fiction is not a genre I seek generally, and I was very agreeably surprised with this book. From the opening lines, with their vividly evocative prose, the elegant writing does not falter. Having Munro with a foot in both camps was a masterly device to give insight into the scheming of both feuding clans, the Montgomeries and the Cunninghames. The switching of sides, the constant jockeying for position, the hatreds and vengeance, the doubt and sorrow, the self-questioning and ultimately the decisions that have to be made on an individual, human level, are brilliantly brought to life in the story, from the initial ambush to the consequences that ripple outward and overtake so many members of both families. This opening episode and subsequent events become an archetype of every blood feud that ever foiled any possibility of peace in Scotland.
Ms Skea has a good ear for easy dialogue and has found an excellent balance between the modern and archaic forms, and by judicious use of minor idiom that in no way detracts from immediate comprehension by the reader, has managed to suggest dialogue in a Scots accent - no mean feat! The characters are three dimensional, believable, and many of them are of considerable charm. To one who can claim no great knowledge of Scots history but with some historical knowledge of the England of that time, the evocation of day to day life is certainly authentic feeling and flows naturally. There is a most appealing warmth and humanity in the affectionate and earthy family scenes, and the romance elements are delicately drawn.
The list of characters at the front and the glossary at the end are both useful additions, though I found that contextual understanding was easily gained for any unfamiliar Scots expressions. The characters quickly sorted themselves out in my mind. It could almost be argued that any difficulty in working out who was who and what side they belonged is part and parcel of the real situation, a metaphor for the actual quandary of several of the characters!
The descriptions of the countryside and the vignettes of farm life are just beautiful, economically yet fully drawn and wonderfully integrated, so that everything moves the story along, and I found no wasted words, padding or history for history’s sake anywhere. The author is to be congratulated on a tightly plotted, superbly written, highly engaging novel. I will be looking out for more from Ms Skea.
Ms Skea has a good ear for easy dialogue and has found an excellent balance between the modern and archaic forms, and by judicious use of minor idiom that in no way detracts from immediate comprehension by the reader, has managed to suggest dialogue in a Scots accent - no mean feat! The characters are three dimensional, believable, and many of them are of considerable charm. To one who can claim no great knowledge of Scots history but with some historical knowledge of the England of that time, the evocation of day to day life is certainly authentic feeling and flows naturally. There is a most appealing warmth and humanity in the affectionate and earthy family scenes, and the romance elements are delicately drawn.
The list of characters at the front and the glossary at the end are both useful additions, though I found that contextual understanding was easily gained for any unfamiliar Scots expressions. The characters quickly sorted themselves out in my mind. It could almost be argued that any difficulty in working out who was who and what side they belonged is part and parcel of the real situation, a metaphor for the actual quandary of several of the characters!
The descriptions of the countryside and the vignettes of farm life are just beautiful, economically yet fully drawn and wonderfully integrated, so that everything moves the story along, and I found no wasted words, padding or history for history’s sake anywhere. The author is to be congratulated on a tightly plotted, superbly written, highly engaging novel. I will be looking out for more from Ms Skea.
April 27, 2014
I appreciate Amazon recommending this book to me. The story is set in 16th century Scotland involving a true blood feud between two noble families, the Montgomeries and the Cunninghames. The story is told through a fictitious character named Munro. I likened the story to the Hatfields and the McCoys of the United States fame.
The first hundred pages were difficult to read. Thereafter, the story flowed making for good reading. Each family practiced horrible acts upon the other. The collateral damage to innocent people caused by the feud is the gist of the story. Lesser nobles walked a fine line trying to stay out of the cross hairs of the feud. The line proved too fine for Munro.
I don't give many four stars to a read, but this book had that inexplicable quality that made it more than a good book.
Thank you, Ms. Skea, for an exceptional read.k
The first hundred pages were difficult to read. Thereafter, the story flowed making for good reading. Each family practiced horrible acts upon the other. The collateral damage to innocent people caused by the feud is the gist of the story. Lesser nobles walked a fine line trying to stay out of the cross hairs of the feud. The line proved too fine for Munro.
I don't give many four stars to a read, but this book had that inexplicable quality that made it more than a good book.
Thank you, Ms. Skea, for an exceptional read.k
June 12, 2013
Turn of the Tide has it all - a rich sense of time and place, characters worth caring about, plot surprises, evocative language, and a pace that never lags. It raises some complex ethical questions that human beings of any time might have to face, and it doesn't insult the reader's intelligence by pretending there are easy answers. Decisions carry a cost (and often a reward as well). The long-running family feud that motivates the plot makes a simple happy ending elusive, but main character Munro's qualities of courage, intelligence, resourcefulness, and resilience shine through. Compassion and steadfast love also have a role. This book engaged me emotionally, and I found it deeply satisfying. Highly recommended.
November 30, 2016
I hate to trash a small-press book, but this novel, written in some kind of pseudo-historical style that is never not annoying, left me largely disappointed.
I read the blurb, read the author's bio, and thought that I was onto a winner with a novel that would be both well-written and well-researched, and with what small amount I knew about Scottish history I figured it would be a bit gruesome too. What I got was an overtly-sentimental, soppy romance novel that didn't really go anywhere, with a prose style that bothered me throughout. I suspect that whether or not you enjoy the writing style is entirely subjective and that many people think this is terrific, but to me it felt like a writing class special and left me cold.
I read the blurb, read the author's bio, and thought that I was onto a winner with a novel that would be both well-written and well-researched, and with what small amount I knew about Scottish history I figured it would be a bit gruesome too. What I got was an overtly-sentimental, soppy romance novel that didn't really go anywhere, with a prose style that bothered me throughout. I suspect that whether or not you enjoy the writing style is entirely subjective and that many people think this is terrific, but to me it felt like a writing class special and left me cold.
August 14, 2013
A refreshing look at a work of historical fiction.
The author uses her words impeccably and brings us into the time and place with ease and grace... even within a time that is so full of horrific battles and shifting allegiances, not to mention the age old family squabble.
This author paints the picture with accurate details by one who has either lived in that the time or has done endless research.
Looking forward to more from this author!
The author uses her words impeccably and brings us into the time and place with ease and grace... even within a time that is so full of horrific battles and shifting allegiances, not to mention the age old family squabble.
This author paints the picture with accurate details by one who has either lived in that the time or has done endless research.
Looking forward to more from this author!
May 26, 2014
This story is set in Scotland in the 16th century. There is a family chart of who is related to who to help readers follow every character.
September 6, 2013
original post on www.thehistorylady.wordpress.com
“Turn of the Tide” charts shifting currents of clan loyalties
It is hard to know where to begin, there were so many things I liked about “Turn of the Tide,”Margaret Skea’s debut novel about the feud between the Montgomeries and the Cunninghams set in 17th Century Scotland. I have had this one in the queue for a wee while and was grateful for the US Labor Day weekend for uninterrupted hours of reading pleasure.
Set in Ayrshire, the novel opens with main character, Munro setting plans in motion for a massacre of key members of the Montgomery clan. He’s a loyal, albeit reluctant, member of the Cunningham clan who would rather be at home with his wife, bairns and farm. He carries out this mission for the Earl of Glencairn with a seed of misgiving about continuing the 100-year-old feud that grows throughout the novel.
Retribution is swift for may of those involved in the massacre, but Munro has a handy alibi and escapes harm. Still, his wife is horrified and his conscience nags him. A friendly encounter with a Montgomery makes him question further the blind loyalty to the Cunningham clan and its leader, the Earl of Glencairn. Glencairn himself may have some reasonable qualities, but William, his son and heir is a dangerous man.
Auch, I’ll no spoil it for ye! I will say that Munro’s conscience is the tide that turns, and the reasons behind it make for a captivating read.
I love that the novel shone a light on this feud, which ran for centuries in Ayrshire. King James VI and his court do feature in the novel, but they are far from the main story. It was a refreshing departure to find a 16th-17th century novel with a griping tale where royalty is on the fringe and not center stage. That said, one of the issues in the feud was which clan leader took precedence at court.
This is an emotionally gripping story about a man caught between duty and conscience at a time in history when a man’s livelihood depended upon his loyalty to family and clan --theoretically those would be aligned. While Skea could have chosen one incident to make Munro’s loyalties change, I’m glad she did not. It would have had impact, but missed the nuances, the questioning and the soul-searching Munro went through. And then of course, there was also impact (I willnae spoil it).
Skea clearly knows Ayrshire well, and writes with beautiful detail about the landscape, whether it is describing the miserable rain that can chill you to the bone, or the aconite flowers in a valley. The dialect adds richness to the characters and is judiciously used. Helpfully, there’s a glossary in the book so you can look up words like “wabbit” (no, not rabbit).
“Turn of the Tide” charts shifting currents of clan loyalties
It is hard to know where to begin, there were so many things I liked about “Turn of the Tide,”Margaret Skea’s debut novel about the feud between the Montgomeries and the Cunninghams set in 17th Century Scotland. I have had this one in the queue for a wee while and was grateful for the US Labor Day weekend for uninterrupted hours of reading pleasure.
Set in Ayrshire, the novel opens with main character, Munro setting plans in motion for a massacre of key members of the Montgomery clan. He’s a loyal, albeit reluctant, member of the Cunningham clan who would rather be at home with his wife, bairns and farm. He carries out this mission for the Earl of Glencairn with a seed of misgiving about continuing the 100-year-old feud that grows throughout the novel.
Retribution is swift for may of those involved in the massacre, but Munro has a handy alibi and escapes harm. Still, his wife is horrified and his conscience nags him. A friendly encounter with a Montgomery makes him question further the blind loyalty to the Cunningham clan and its leader, the Earl of Glencairn. Glencairn himself may have some reasonable qualities, but William, his son and heir is a dangerous man.
Auch, I’ll no spoil it for ye! I will say that Munro’s conscience is the tide that turns, and the reasons behind it make for a captivating read.
I love that the novel shone a light on this feud, which ran for centuries in Ayrshire. King James VI and his court do feature in the novel, but they are far from the main story. It was a refreshing departure to find a 16th-17th century novel with a griping tale where royalty is on the fringe and not center stage. That said, one of the issues in the feud was which clan leader took precedence at court.
This is an emotionally gripping story about a man caught between duty and conscience at a time in history when a man’s livelihood depended upon his loyalty to family and clan --theoretically those would be aligned. While Skea could have chosen one incident to make Munro’s loyalties change, I’m glad she did not. It would have had impact, but missed the nuances, the questioning and the soul-searching Munro went through. And then of course, there was also impact (I willnae spoil it).
Skea clearly knows Ayrshire well, and writes with beautiful detail about the landscape, whether it is describing the miserable rain that can chill you to the bone, or the aconite flowers in a valley. The dialect adds richness to the characters and is judiciously used. Helpfully, there’s a glossary in the book so you can look up words like “wabbit” (no, not rabbit).
May 12, 2015
Margaret Skea has made a thrilling, griping read! I loved this story and can't wait for more of it.
As I see it Munro is more than tangled beetwen his Cunninghame loyalty and his Montgomery affinity; he is troubled for the happenings at Annock, as for the part he took in it. Which is making him feel guilty and that guilt is following him for many months,also marring all aspects in his live. Till the point is reached where he is to loose all, his wife and family due to that event. Thankfully that does not come to pass and the relationship with his wife, the feelings they share are only strengthen with time.
Hard times come with hard things happening almost one after the other. The loss of the beloved daughter, also enhances the feeling of powerlessness that seems to follow Munro lately, then his mother is ailing and dying, his brother is becoming an estranger, unknown, there seems to be no clear path to reach him. Then Archie comes around and we find a lovely setting in his development as a close, affectionate brother and uncle and the sweetness of his liaison with Sybilla, whom is a likable lass, strong. In general, the rol of the women in this book is strong, both Elizabeth and Kate are powerful women, witty and clear of mind, able to lead their families into safety and to share with their partners joy and risks. They're the safe shore to which turn in the trouble tide that envelopes the plot.
William Cunninghame is a loathsome weasel. Weak leader and villain in the mix. He inspires hatred. I'm glad of Hugh and Patrick Montgomerie who are exactly the opposite to William and Glencairn. Munro, as John Cunninghame often tells him, just has to pray that no harm comes to Glencairn so William, besides loosing the only one able to put a break on his instincts, doesn't rise to the position of laird.
From the start to the end, this book is a page turner. The vast descriptions on each scene are the strokes of an artful painter; trough the pen of Margaret, one can picture each detail and actually be in the place of the scene.
As I see it Munro is more than tangled beetwen his Cunninghame loyalty and his Montgomery affinity; he is troubled for the happenings at Annock, as for the part he took in it. Which is making him feel guilty and that guilt is following him for many months,also marring all aspects in his live. Till the point is reached where he is to loose all, his wife and family due to that event. Thankfully that does not come to pass and the relationship with his wife, the feelings they share are only strengthen with time.
Hard times come with hard things happening almost one after the other. The loss of the beloved daughter, also enhances the feeling of powerlessness that seems to follow Munro lately, then his mother is ailing and dying, his brother is becoming an estranger, unknown, there seems to be no clear path to reach him. Then Archie comes around and we find a lovely setting in his development as a close, affectionate brother and uncle and the sweetness of his liaison with Sybilla, whom is a likable lass, strong. In general, the rol of the women in this book is strong, both Elizabeth and Kate are powerful women, witty and clear of mind, able to lead their families into safety and to share with their partners joy and risks. They're the safe shore to which turn in the trouble tide that envelopes the plot.
William Cunninghame is a loathsome weasel. Weak leader and villain in the mix. He inspires hatred. I'm glad of Hugh and Patrick Montgomerie who are exactly the opposite to William and Glencairn. Munro, as John Cunninghame often tells him, just has to pray that no harm comes to Glencairn so William, besides loosing the only one able to put a break on his instincts, doesn't rise to the position of laird.
From the start to the end, this book is a page turner. The vast descriptions on each scene are the strokes of an artful painter; trough the pen of Margaret, one can picture each detail and actually be in the place of the scene.
February 15, 2014
Turn of the Tide by Margaret Skea
Knowing little of Scottish history, I wasn’t sure what to expect of this novel. I found it well researched, well written, informative, entertaining and thoroughly worth reading. Based on a long lasting bloody feud between two clans, the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries, the story begins with a surprise horrific mass killing, one side lying in wait to slaughter the other. This event actually occurred in Ayrshire, Scotland in 1586. The author, by introducing the fictional Munro family in this first chapter, is able to present the incidents that follow through the adventures of Munro, a minor laird, whose connections to both factions move the narrative along. We get wonderful glimpses into daily life in 16th century Scotland—what they ate, clothes they wore, even the children are portrayed in a way that creates a picture in the mind; their antics and worries adding interest and sparkle. The dreadful plight of the poor is made clear when a starving child is caught in the act of stealing a rabbit from the family warren, “... she could see his shoulder blades and hips protruding sharp and angular, his legs stick-thin.” I was grateful for the area map, the main character descriptions, and the short glossary of Scottish words, and used them all repeatedly. I was totally unprepared for the ending. It was perfect! This novel is historical fiction at its best and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
Knowing little of Scottish history, I wasn’t sure what to expect of this novel. I found it well researched, well written, informative, entertaining and thoroughly worth reading. Based on a long lasting bloody feud between two clans, the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries, the story begins with a surprise horrific mass killing, one side lying in wait to slaughter the other. This event actually occurred in Ayrshire, Scotland in 1586. The author, by introducing the fictional Munro family in this first chapter, is able to present the incidents that follow through the adventures of Munro, a minor laird, whose connections to both factions move the narrative along. We get wonderful glimpses into daily life in 16th century Scotland—what they ate, clothes they wore, even the children are portrayed in a way that creates a picture in the mind; their antics and worries adding interest and sparkle. The dreadful plight of the poor is made clear when a starving child is caught in the act of stealing a rabbit from the family warren, “... she could see his shoulder blades and hips protruding sharp and angular, his legs stick-thin.” I was grateful for the area map, the main character descriptions, and the short glossary of Scottish words, and used them all repeatedly. I was totally unprepared for the ending. It was perfect! This novel is historical fiction at its best and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the genre.
January 31, 2021
A Great first novel
Audible edition
I want everyone to experience this awesome story, especially if you are interested in Scottish or British historical fiction set in the 16thc to the backdrop of the famous feud between the Montgomeries and the Cunninghames. This book won the Beryl Bainbridge Best First Time Novelist, and is endorsed by authors like Jeffrey Archer and Sharon Penman. And I can see why. So well written and so well read. Its not fast paced, but it sets the scene I feel for what is coming in the sequential books.
There were episodes where one expects something more to happen and the reader's anxiety is provoked but then all expectations of the something more diminishes and slightly deflated, we move on to the next event. Despite this, I was gripped and enthralled and the language is amazingly beautiful, and very evocative of how Scottish lowlanders spoke back in the day without overpowering the reader so that one cannot understand it.
The narrative follows two families on opposing sides of the conflict, focussing on the Munros and on the way to the finale, the tension builds into a climactic ending that brings horror and tragedy, opening the way for the next book. Can't wait to get book 2 which I believe is out on audible now!
Audible edition
I want everyone to experience this awesome story, especially if you are interested in Scottish or British historical fiction set in the 16thc to the backdrop of the famous feud between the Montgomeries and the Cunninghames. This book won the Beryl Bainbridge Best First Time Novelist, and is endorsed by authors like Jeffrey Archer and Sharon Penman. And I can see why. So well written and so well read. Its not fast paced, but it sets the scene I feel for what is coming in the sequential books.
There were episodes where one expects something more to happen and the reader's anxiety is provoked but then all expectations of the something more diminishes and slightly deflated, we move on to the next event. Despite this, I was gripped and enthralled and the language is amazingly beautiful, and very evocative of how Scottish lowlanders spoke back in the day without overpowering the reader so that one cannot understand it.
The narrative follows two families on opposing sides of the conflict, focussing on the Munros and on the way to the finale, the tension builds into a climactic ending that brings horror and tragedy, opening the way for the next book. Can't wait to get book 2 which I believe is out on audible now!
January 17, 2013
In 16th century Ayrshire the old feud between the Cunninghames and the Montgomeries still rages. Munro, a follower of the Cunninghame chief, the Earl of Glencairn, finds himself trapped between the two sides, as circumstances throw him together socially with the Montgomeries and he finds that he likes them. There are fights and ambushes and dark deeds aplenty here but much on the domestic front too and the women, especially on the Montgomerie side, come over as real, warm, individual characters that we feel we know. They cope with housekeeping and bringing up children as modern women do – as well as with the aforementioned dark deeds of their menfolk. This is a page-turning read bringing history to life with some memorable writing. My favourite line, apropos of educating the masses, was ‘… if we can all spout Cicero, who will clear the middens?’
October 8, 2015
Just finished reading Turn of the Tides and am happy to say I was not disappointed! The setting and time period in history are realistically portrayed. I found it very easy to visualize as I read because the author has a smooth and easy writing style. Mostly, I enjoyed the characters-the good, the not so good, and even the truly despicable! All of the characters are well developed and interesting, and it's fascinating that many of them were true historical figures. The main characters, the Munro's, are a fictional family that truly drew me into the story and made me feel invested in their lives. I look forward to reading the sequel and finding out how everyone fares!
January 19, 2016
I won a copy of this book from the folk at goodreads.com - thanks guys.
Historical fiction is'nt my normal reading fare but I found this an atmospheric and well researched novel that held my attention.
After tuning in to the initial chapters where the introduction of lots of characters took a while for me to position them in the plot the rest of the book was a pleasure to read.
I have a horror as my next page-turner but then I may well be back to read the sequel to this well written historical novel.
Historical fiction is'nt my normal reading fare but I found this an atmospheric and well researched novel that held my attention.
After tuning in to the initial chapters where the introduction of lots of characters took a while for me to position them in the plot the rest of the book was a pleasure to read.
I have a horror as my next page-turner but then I may well be back to read the sequel to this well written historical novel.
July 14, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this book. Margaret makes good use of historical fact, local dialect and factual events to create a well written fictional story. The characters are well defined and very real. A sense of foreboding builds throughout the text however I was surprised by the finale and impressed that I didn't see it coming. A book I will certainly recommended to anyone who enjoys historical fiction or stories set in Scotland.
October 5, 2014
16th Century Scotland brought to life.
This is one of these rare historical novels which seems to take the reader back in time and place to actually live through the events. The dialogue is spot on, devoid of anachronism yet lively enough not to jar upon the most modern ear. A masterpiece; I was genuinely sorry when the tale ended as I was agog to discover what might next befall the characters.
This is one of these rare historical novels which seems to take the reader back in time and place to actually live through the events. The dialogue is spot on, devoid of anachronism yet lively enough not to jar upon the most modern ear. A masterpiece; I was genuinely sorry when the tale ended as I was agog to discover what might next befall the characters.
November 25, 2014
Gripping historical setting, well researched and easily narrated, though I’m not too pleased at the portrayal of my kinsmen! The telling is immediate and vibrant, the characters completely convincing: the plot urges you to read quickly but a slower perusal repays you with clever dialogue and perceptive, beautiful description. There is tragedy in this but fun, too: the ending makes me long for the sequel.
December 10, 2020
I am not one to quit on books but I just couldn’t continue with this. I’m only on Chapter 4 and so confused on what’s going on with this book. A feud, extreme violence and graphic details. It’s very hard to keep the characters straight and there doesn’t seem to be much of a plot except feuding and war. I really tried but this has got to be a DNF for me. I regret the money and time I spent with this one.
October 14, 2015
I really enjoyed this hard to put down book,Turn of the Tide is book one in a series, it has everything ,Murder and Mayhem in Scotland ,has characters you love to hate ,Intrigue,Feuds ,and tragedy underpinned by a love story of the main couple Munro and Kate with their children ,retainers and dangerous enemies.Set in the times of King James .
June 17, 2013
I love historical fiction and this did not disappoint! Well written, interesting historical context and great characterisation. I found myself drawn into the families and the feuds and I am certainly looking forward to the sequel(s)!
December 11, 2012
4.5 stars actually
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January 8, 2015
Excellent!
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