Song of the Stag

by R.M. Brown

Cait is from Storran’s borders: idyllic, traditional, and completely opposed to separatism.

When her childhood sweetheart, Kenzie, is called up to the ranks of the Queen’s Watch to hunt down Storrian Separatists, Cait moves to the capital with him.

In the city of Thorterknock, she quickly realises that her charming countryside life is not the reality for every citizen of Storran. Struggle abounds on the cobbled streets, as does the battle for Storran’s liberation from the Five Realms.

Drawn to the enigmatic Separatist firebrand, the Fox of Thorterknock, and her tales of a secret heir to Storran’s long-empty throne, Cait finds herself swept into a struggle for freedom. With Kenzie and the Queen’s Watch on one side, and the Fox and the Separatists on the other, Cait will learn what it truly means to be a patriot.

And amidst this struggle to secure a better future, she will come to know the power of her own autonomy.

Song of the Stag may be a fantasy, but above all it is a love letter to Scotland’s historic and folkloric legacy. From ancient kings and black-hearted patriots to bonnie princes and Jacobite songs, this book is a celebration of a complex, beautiful, and all too often tragic, land.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, LGBT, Fiction, Book Club

381 pages, Paperback

First published June 27, 2024

About the author

A proud Dundonian, Rebecca is an English and Creative Writing alumna and co-founder of the charity Folklore Scotland. Armed with an obscene number of folklore books, she and her husband strive to preserve the tales of the past for a new generation by digitising stories, recording podcasts, and of course, hunting for fairies.

Reviews

[Bethany Ainsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

O M G!!!!

GIMME BOOK TWO. RIGHT. NOW.

a sapphic fantasy centred around Scottish freedom? inject it straight into my veins immediately. need i say more than that? honestly what more could you want from a book?

the characters were so well written and so real and raw and human that i loved every single one of them. the interactions between the characters is amazing and their banter and chemistry and friendships melt my heart.
the plot is one of my favourites! i mean who doesn’t want to read about storran (scotland) fighting back and rebelling against afren (england) and fighting for freedom and what is right. also the politics in this book is perfect and balanced and really well thought out. as well as the views of each of the characters being different but ultimately wanting the same things and working with each other to achieve that, was just chefs kiss 😙 🤌🏼

be warned! that ending and the last few chapters had me crying screaming throwing up and staring at the wall for a good 10 minutes 🥲 which means i highly recommend

tropes -
• heists
• sapphic slow burn
• found family
• anti-imperialism
• scottish folklore
• nature magic
• lovers to enemies
• rebellion
• ancient heroes

thank you so much Ringwood Publishers for sending me an earc and thank you Rebecca for allowing me to interview you 🫶🏼

book is out 27th June 2024 (2 weeks today)

[Charlotte Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Without a doubt my book of the year and one that I will no doubt come back to time and time again. If there’s two things in life I’m passionate about it’s fantasy novels and Scottish Independence and as soon as I found out there was a book about both it jumped straight to the top of my TBR and it did not disappoint.

I absolutely loved the fast pace of this book and struggled to put it down. The comparisons between fictional Storran and real life Scotland were so impactful and moving yet it didn’t rip you out of the story. The characters are fully fleshed out and interesting and the character arcs of Cait and Kenzie are just some of the best writing I’ve encountered. I also loved the inclusion of POC characters and storylines of immigration as Scotland wouldn’t be Scotland without our diversity.

I’ve been left with a deep ache in my heart and I can’t wait for the sequel. Alba gu bràth 🖤

[Elan Shellard · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 I immediately wanted to reread this book as soon as I finished it. She somehow weaves a fictional tale that highlights the the heritage and struggles of the countries of uk governed by England, I don’t want to spoil anything but I loved how the heritage of each nation was touched upon and woven into the bigger picture. It was hard to pinpoint the general time period this was set, given history in the book is similar to but with definite differences from reality. I like her writing style and some of her passages and phrases were gorgeous, I loved the symbolism and the folklore woven throughout and I would love to read a fictional book written in the style of epic poetry if she wrote one because I think in her style it would be really interesting. Again, no spoilers, but I think the ending did the book justice. I would love to read more in this universe, possibly with time skips between books? I also don’t think the publisher did it justice publicity wise, it is great for fantasy lovers, includes folklore, draws allegories to greater pictures both historically and to the present, and deserves a much wider audience.

[Lynn Stevenson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Let’s start with the good stuff, because there was good stuff.

The Scots. Oh my god, the Scots. Beautifully done, wonderfully authentic and possibly confusing as hell for anyone who doesn’t hear it daily. 😂 Also adored the wee nods to real life annoyances we’ve all faced - ‘speak properly’ comments and English places refusing Scottish notes. Painfully real. Felt very seen.

Kenzie was an excellent baddie. The second he called Cait ‘little dove’ I was personally offended on her behalf. Instant ick. Full body boak. 🤮 Meanwhile, The Fox was an absolute standout - sharp, clever and easily one of the best characters here.

Now… onto the rest.

I saw someone call this ‘Outlander but fantasy,’ and the blurb talks about it being fantasy too. And… yeah. No. It was neither. Yes, it’s set in an alternate UK, which I will admit is technically fantasy, but there is zero magic. We get the briefest whiff of it - a tiny tease - and then nothing. I was waiting for something to kick in and it never did. Nada. Not a spark. Not even a glow stick. I’ve had more magic in a Tesco meal deal.

What we do get is essentially historical fiction with an alternate Victorian Edinburgh vibe. And honestly, if I’d known that going in, I think I’d have liked it way more. I don’t need fireballs, dark gods and axe wielding FMCs who take no sh1t every time - I just need expectations to match reality. But because I was primed for a fantasy with an Outlander-ish twist, the whole reading experience felt like I’d accidentally walked into the wrong cinema screening.

And then we have Cait… oh Cait. I understand the intention: young, sheltered, controlled and doing the whole painful growing up arc - slowly waking up to the fact she disagrees with her abusive boyfriend and the delightful regime he supports. But oh my god it took far too long. She made so many catastrophically stupid decisions that hurt other people, and instead of learning, she just… kept… doing them. By the time she finally grows a spine near the end, I’d already mentally tossed her into oncoming horse traffic. I needed more from her, earlier.

So yeah. This isn’t a bad book. It’s just absolutely not the book I was promised. And once the expectation mismatch set in, there was no coming back from it. If you go in expecting alternate history vibes with the very briefest mention of magic, you’ll probably enjoy it far more than I did.

[David White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Song of the Stag is a fantastic tale demonstrating just how to explore complex and serious themes in a fun, exiting read that you don't want to put down. The definition of a page turner I read the book cover to cover in a few days where normally it takes me weeks to pluck up the energy to make it to the end of a book.

The book has some fantastic characters and in addition to some stereotypical archetypes such as the fiery rebel, calm collected tactician and wilfully innocent country girl, R.M. Brown brings a great deal of complexity to some of the characters, in particular Cait and Kenzie. Cait, whose isolated, almost brainwashed upbringing results in doubts and often unexpected choices, and Kenzie whose single mindedness, fear and need for control dominates his rationale.

This selection of characters drive a fast paced and enchanting narrative with plenty of intrigue, twists, and rousing moments which track a band of rebels plight and fight for freedom. It even has a little bit of magic to top it all off.

My preference in reading tends to be to lean towards long series (Raymond E Feist, Terry Pratchett, David Eddings) so that I can feel properly immersed within the worlds, but this book, through its clever building of a fantasy world with its own unique characteristics, while using Victorian Scotland as the underlying influence, helps cement a clear image of a world within which the tale is set without requiring thousands of pages to do so. With that being said there were some elements of world building such as the currency and economics that left me wanting more.

The use of a truly epic central ballad in Scots and the influence of Scottish folklore on crafting Storran's own unique myths & legends really helped give a fullness to the world and its culture and also provided an interesting and unique aspect to this story. I could rave on for ages about Song of the Stag, but I think this review is probably long enough for anyone interested, so all I have to add is I can't wait for book 2!

[Morgan Virsik · Rating 5 out of 5]

This might be the best book I’ve read all year… I’m not being dramatic……. Scottish history meets fantasy in this book full of characters with realistic motives and raw emotions. The author weaves a well paced and beautiful book about a people’s love for their country and their fight for freedom. God I want to reread this already. The folklore, the hope, the courage, the slow burn, ahhhh! To me, this is perfect.

[Eleanor Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not normally read fantasy but this novel has challenged my thinking. With themes of patriotism, political uprising, queer relationships and a plot that intrigued me, Song of the Stag was devoured in four days and left me clearing a space on my chick flick bookshelf for this writer’s next piece of work.

The first thing you will notice in Song of the Stag is the effective use of symbolism and imagery that transports you to believable fictional settings in the Victorian era. The story portrays the struggles of the communities which have very cleverly paralleled current concerns of our UK bordering countries. The author has been careful to include lovable characters from both North and South of the border and ensured that all viewpoints are rendered.

The character building is a real strength of the writing. It does not take long however for the reader to know enough about the person and their cause to feel emotions of pride, anger and upset at some of their actions. I challenge you to read this book and not become invested in the main characters.

The book is very well written and the occasional use of short chapters made it too tempting to say, “OK, just one more”. This never happened! I did have to consult a Scots dictionary on more than one occasion for clarification of old Storian tongue. Perhaps a glossary in future prints of the book would be helpful for readers?

[Lea · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐬 & 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬: scottish inspired fantasy, lovers to ememies , very slow burn sapphic romance, found family, heist, multi pov, one realm oppressing the other four, folklore influences, fight for freedom, nature magic

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Song of the Stag was an engaging historical fantasy novel set in a fictional and alternative 1800s version of Scotland and was steeped in the country´s history and folklore.

When I first started this book, Cait and Kenzie in a way reminded me of Iris and Roman from Divine Rivals. However, I was quickly proven wrong of this initial comparison. Because as soon as Cait took her first steps outside of her previously idyllic and shelter countryside life and Kenzie got his first taste of power, it became clear to Cait (but also to us readers) that things are not as romantic and sweet as she always thought. And with that we accompany Cait on her journey of finding her own independence and courage, and how she gets thrown into a new world and is forced to rethink and question a lot when she joins the Separatist’s. Which was something I really enjoyed since we got to see her grow as a character.

Speaking of independence, the story of Song of the Stag is heavily inspired by Scotland’s own fight for independence, and you could tell that this topic is something really important to R.M. Brown and that she really put an emphasis on accurate representation and not romanticising the country of Scotland when writing it. However, this novel was by no means a bleak history lesson because R.M. Brown was able interweave the historical and political aspects with a wonderful story full of secret underground hideouts, heists, a puppet heir and found family. Along with that, the book also featured a variety of folkloric influences, which I really loved such as songs and stories as well as people with magical abilities that are based on a delicate connection to nature.

This is also one of the very few romantasy novels I´ve enjoyed reading this year since it wasn’t oversaturated with romance but had deeper meanings and political nuances to it as well. I also loved that the characters in this book were kind of difficult with individual flaws, goals and dreams and made some questionable and sometimes even infuriating decisions.

My only point of very mild crisis however would be that I had hoped for the sapphic romance to begin a bit earlier in the novel making the slow burn essence of it a bit more satisfying to witness. Nevertheless, who says that this won’t happen in the sequel, so I don’t want to judge it too harshly at this point. Lastly, and this has absolutely nothing to do with the book itself but is just something that shaped my reading experience, but I definitely would have enjoyed Song of the Stag even more, if I had had a physical copy of it.

[Kat Jennings · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an enjoyable read. Unfortunately, I felt that the romance subplot that I was sold online was almost entirely absent. This is a shame as the characters have some real chemistry between them.

Overall, I found myself feeling genuinely unsettled with the outcome of this story. However, I don't think that is a bad thing here. The author has done an excellent job of getting across how confusing and emotionally charged the independence issue has been over the past 15-20 years.

I am Scottish and have grown up surrounded by a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction at our current political arrangements. The understanding that no one can really know what would happen if we were to gain independence, but still desperately wanting to just give it a go. The nationalistic indignation that swells up in my chest when the Westminster parliament refuses to "allow" a second referendum. I totally understand the rage that drives Aggie and the confusion that Cait is drowning in.

This was an interesting read and brought up a lot of unresolved emotion for me surrounding Scottish independence. Definitely worth a read.

[Linzi Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is fantasy in the sense that it takes place in an alternative universe but if you’re expecting magic, you’ll be sorely disappointed.

I feel like I was mis-sold this. I was expecting Scottish folklore fantasy and got Scottish independence in Victorian Edinburgh. If I knew that going in, maybe I’d have been more on board. The FMC is the worst character: she has zero redeeming features. She’s so indecisive and continually goes back to Kenzie and his ‘little dove’ sh1te. I get that it’s supposed to be an abusive relationship but she has zero character growth throughout.

I really like the Scots language being used in it and I found myself reading the story of Cathal and Anddras out loud cause i enjoyed that. I loved the first 100 pages, I was hugely into the story but none of it paid off and it felt slow in the second half

The only reason I’d read the next book is to see Kenzie get killed in a brutal death.

[R Hendry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The characters and their relationships with eachother really shone in this book. The interractions felt real and moving and the character arcs were natural and enjoyable. Some of the decisions that the characters made to carry the plot forward didn't really make sense to me, or needed (I felt) more justification/explanation. This happened a few times, where I thought "wait, why would they do this, this doesn't make sense to me", but I brushed passed those moments as the in-scene writing was really great and quickly carried me on. If you are more plot-focussed as a reader this may not be for you, but if you enjoy character focussed stories (along with, of course, fantasy, scotland, folkore, and all that good stuff), then Song of the Stag is worth a read. I'm looking forward to the next installment to see how both the characters and the author grow.

[Febe Ferro · Rating 4 out of 5]

I might have read The Song of the Stag by R.M. Brown during the two sunniest weeks Scotland has seen all year—but the ending? It fits the return of grey skies and incessant rain all too well. 🌧️💔

This is historical fantasy at its absolute best: rich in politics, steeped in emotion, and paced like a masterclass in tension. Every chapter brought something new—characters, loyalties, heartbreaks, quiet tenderness, and food for thought. I didn’t think I had more room in my heart for political intrigue or heist dynamics… but here I am, more obsessed than ever.

The Dove and the Fox have carved their way into my soul (we will not be discussing what they’ve done to my heart, thank you).

Now to count the days until I get to find out what happens next…

[Heather Graham HappyHullaballoo · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely incredible story - lots of interesting, complex yet relateably real characters. A fantastic mix of history, folklore and politics set in a vivid fantasy world that harkens to Scotlands own landscape. Speaks to the heart of those who want freedom and equality for all yet acknowledges the trials and tribulations of trying to achieve such a dream and that compromise, planning and action are all needed to change the world for the better. I could not recommend this book more to anyone who is looking for a bit of adventure, scheming, fantasy and reality and a real look at the relationships between people and their morals. 10/10 ✨✨✨

[Mags · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the surface this is a richly woven fantasy with exceptional characterisations and plot lines. The pace of the story is perfect, flowing relentlessly to the last page.
Underneath all that though is a story of a country that will fight for its rights against an oppressor that would have its citizens believe they could not survive, much less prosper without their help...their benevolence. The struggles of the nation and those fighting for freedom are exquisitely drawn. I simply couldn't put this book down. A masterpiece.

[rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

so clearly written by someone who truly loves scotland and that made it such a joy to read. i loved all these characters dearly, and cait especially. i loved seeing her go from a naive sheltered girl to making her own decisions on where she wants to be, the people she wants to surround herself with and the future she wants for her country.

extra points to the author for being a proud dundonian! ☝🏼

[Julia Lockhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. So well written and really enjoyed following Cait, her love for Kenzie and her adventures and danger with the Separatists. I was drawn into the legendary stories of Storran and the fight for independence for the true leader. This is a great read full of magical and mythical imagery.

[Sophie Howieson · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Hope is hard, but it’s better than acceptance”.

I didn’t expect this to be as politically charged as it was. I thought it was a fun fantasy book with some romance thrown in but nope it’s was giving Scotland forever vibes. Which I enjoyed, I want Storran to be free from Afren as much as Cait, Aggie, Calan and Jamie do.

[Shonag · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read this book over and over - everything moves towards a great climax, the 'villain' is enigmatic and complex (and I kind of have a crush on them), and the characters all have such interesting and moving relationships with eachother.
I can't wait to see more of them in the sequel!!!

Do yourself a favour and read this. Omg

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually write reviews but at 17 ratings and 7 reviews this book is SEVERELY slept upon because WOW! Historical fantasy set in Scotland with a backdrop of rebellion, politics and a sapphic slow burn romance, not to mention an intriguing magic system. I need more!!

[Luke · Rating 5 out of 5]

God, I love this book. Full disclosure, I'm friends with the author, but I fully believe I'd love it regardless (and, if you're reading this, hi Becca)

[Leah Kovach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kind of slow but entertaining

[Kaylee Mackenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Would give 5 stars if I had book two ready to read!

[suhauna]

picked this up in Oban in the “scottish fiction” section of a bookstore - was v annoying at times but on the whole was a fun queer-romance
-amid-revolution vacation read overall

[Fiona Mccallum · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5stars

[Fanny L · Rating 2 out of 5]

Blinding white pages ugh. Anyways some wow tension and stuff but I was not really impressed

[Rebecca McGuire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an underrated work. I am not generally a fantasy reader - and it does take something special for me to change that. This was that something. Complex and politically relevant storylines that intertwine within character arcs that create a genuine wonder. I devoured this book so quickly that I was left bereft to finish it! R.M Brown works modern themes into fantasy in a way that is both subtle and obvious at the same time - this book is a must-read, not just for fans of fantasy but for everyone.

[Mimi Bee · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 20%