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Border Reiver #1
Reiver
‘If Jesus Christ was amongst them, they would deceive him…’
1569 AD. The March lands between England and Scotland are a place of terror, where outlaw bands and broken men rob, pillage and murder in open defiance of the law. Here, deadly blood-feud is a way of life. Families of robbers, known as Border Reivers, live via blackmail and terrorism. No man sleeps safe in his bed, and the sound of hoofbeats on the tops is a herald of death.
Richie Reade, known as Richie O’the Bow, finds himself dragged into this dark and bloody world. One night his village is raided by a gang of Armstrongs, the most dreaded of the reiver families. After he slays two of the gang, Richie is declared a dead man walking: the Armstrongs and their allies will not rest until they have his head. Betrayed by the law, Richie is forced to flee into the wilderness. He and his fellow outlaws begin to forge a reputation as Richie’s Bairns, killing the Armstrongs wherever they find them.
Meanwhile the Border is threatened by war. The rebellious northern earls plan to depose the Protestant Queen of England, Elizabeth I, and replace her with the Catholic Mary Stewart. Many of the reiver families rise to join the rebellion, and the earls march south under the Banner of the Five Wounds. Civil war threatens to break out in England, even as fresh murder and conspiracy raise havoc in Scotland.
With the north in turmoil, and the Border in a state of bloody flux, Richie and his outlaws do what they can to survive. As his fame grows, Richie finds himself drawn inexorably into the war for England’s soul. When the final battle looms, above the rushing waters of the Hell Beck, he must choose his fate.
Reiver is the latest novella by David Pilling, author of the Caesar’s Sword trilogy, Leader of Battles, The White Hawk and Soldier of Fortune.
1569 AD. The March lands between England and Scotland are a place of terror, where outlaw bands and broken men rob, pillage and murder in open defiance of the law. Here, deadly blood-feud is a way of life. Families of robbers, known as Border Reivers, live via blackmail and terrorism. No man sleeps safe in his bed, and the sound of hoofbeats on the tops is a herald of death.
Richie Reade, known as Richie O’the Bow, finds himself dragged into this dark and bloody world. One night his village is raided by a gang of Armstrongs, the most dreaded of the reiver families. After he slays two of the gang, Richie is declared a dead man walking: the Armstrongs and their allies will not rest until they have his head. Betrayed by the law, Richie is forced to flee into the wilderness. He and his fellow outlaws begin to forge a reputation as Richie’s Bairns, killing the Armstrongs wherever they find them.
Meanwhile the Border is threatened by war. The rebellious northern earls plan to depose the Protestant Queen of England, Elizabeth I, and replace her with the Catholic Mary Stewart. Many of the reiver families rise to join the rebellion, and the earls march south under the Banner of the Five Wounds. Civil war threatens to break out in England, even as fresh murder and conspiracy raise havoc in Scotland.
With the north in turmoil, and the Border in a state of bloody flux, Richie and his outlaws do what they can to survive. As his fame grows, Richie finds himself drawn inexorably into the war for England’s soul. When the final battle looms, above the rushing waters of the Hell Beck, he must choose his fate.
Reiver is the latest novella by David Pilling, author of the Caesar’s Sword trilogy, Leader of Battles, The White Hawk and Soldier of Fortune.
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2016
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264 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 21, 2016
Set in the 16th century in the March lands between England and Scotland, 'Reiver' is a very enjoyable blend of fact and fiction. It is a fast-paced, captivating novella, packed with action, intrigue, blood-feuds and exciting battles.
The characters, a colourful mixture of real and fictitious ones, are both realistic and engaging. I particularly liked the author's portrayal of Sir John Forster, but also his Richie Reade and his mate Ruth.
The story is well-told. I enjoyed the regional dialogue and reading about the weapons of the day. The occasional flashes of humour also brought a smile.
In short, a great read about a fascinating period in British history!
The characters, a colourful mixture of real and fictitious ones, are both realistic and engaging. I particularly liked the author's portrayal of Sir John Forster, but also his Richie Reade and his mate Ruth.
The story is well-told. I enjoyed the regional dialogue and reading about the weapons of the day. The occasional flashes of humour also brought a smile.
In short, a great read about a fascinating period in British history!
April 1, 2017
David Pilling can always be relied upon to deliver fast-paced, action-packed and well-researched historical fiction in whatever period or locale he chooses. In this story he turns his gifted hand to the border counties separating Scotland and England in the time of Elizabeth and Mary, Queen of Scots.
The result is almost a mash-up of Robin Hood and a Western, and that's praise. We have outlaws, folk heroes of ballad and song, mixed up with a stark, demanding and much-neglected locale as they navigate the turbulent tides of politics and fortune. Every page delivers conflict and action very often with unequalled period detail.
Richie Reade is a delightful outlaw archetype and I would love to see further adventures in the life of the Reiver of Crowhame!
The result is almost a mash-up of Robin Hood and a Western, and that's praise. We have outlaws, folk heroes of ballad and song, mixed up with a stark, demanding and much-neglected locale as they navigate the turbulent tides of politics and fortune. Every page delivers conflict and action very often with unequalled period detail.
Richie Reade is a delightful outlaw archetype and I would love to see further adventures in the life of the Reiver of Crowhame!
December 11, 2016
4.5 stars. I enjoy the era and have read other books about that period in time. The Wardens of the Scottish Marches or "Debatable Lands" make very fine reading. I would have liked it to be a bit more upbeat, but it was the author's tale and he did a fine job.
Queen Elizabeth and some of the Marcher lords were not very engaging characters, but Richie Reade had a lot of depth. Hopefully that means we will see him in another outing? I am going to try another one of David Pilling's historical novels now.
Queen Elizabeth and some of the Marcher lords were not very engaging characters, but Richie Reade had a lot of depth. Hopefully that means we will see him in another outing? I am going to try another one of David Pilling's historical novels now.
February 19, 2019
not my normal genre.
it was good story and had good characters.
basically a twist on the robin hood tale
a lad kills a chap and this leads to him being outlawed
the back drop to this is the war scotlands and England
I good start to what I presume will be a series
it was good story and had good characters.
basically a twist on the robin hood tale
a lad kills a chap and this leads to him being outlawed
the back drop to this is the war scotlands and England
I good start to what I presume will be a series
June 28, 2019
Short and to the point. Starts out scattered, but then things come together. The Reiver of the title is a single young, strong, lucky, forceful man whose life gets changed against his will, and he rolls with it. At the end he's obviously headed for more, and I'm willing to read more about him.
February 20, 2017
I started off liking this book... It had a proper 'feel' to its placing. But it quickly became a caricature, a comic book presentation of the 'idea' of Borderlands and the people who lived there. Characters were plucked out of 'history' books and placed into a story without breathing life into them. As a novella, it had some splash and dash and did give a fair introduction to the reivers' story... but it overplayed it without giving a good story or a good read. I ended up not liking it and turning to other novels written on the subject to give me a greater pleasure... Still it was well written, if poorly rendered.
February 6, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed the historical fiction work, REIVER by David Pilling. The setting is the Anglo-Scottish border in 1570. This is the tumultuous period early in the reign of Elizabeth Tudor when the supporters of Catholic Mary Stewart were actively hatching plots and gathering armies to overthrow her.
Mr. Pilling paints a fascinating picture of life for the villagers, farmers and reivers in the brutal border area where forces beyond their control strive for dominance. The writing is excellent. His descriptions are at once haunting and grim but not without a stark beauty, as well. The dialogue is first rate and has just the right level of local color to feel authentic. I enjoyed his attention to detail with his characters’ clothes and weapons, the horses’ rigging, the weather and the utter misery of living outdoors. The people of the time display attitudes toward life and death, justice and fairness that rattle and shake our modern minds. I find it so refreshing to read a period novel that is true to the period.
I really loved the book. The main character, Richie Reade, is caught in a grinder of petty raids, political upheaval, blood feuds and just plain bad luck. Mr. Pilling manages to do more than recite historical happenings, he forces you live them with Richie as he strives to fashion a sensible life in a turbulent time. History has never been so graphic and tactile, so approachable and yet frustrating.
I admire the author’s ability to bring the times to life, to populate it with memorable characters as well as historical figures, and still make the whole enterprise a fast page turning experience. I highly recommend the book.
Mr. Pilling paints a fascinating picture of life for the villagers, farmers and reivers in the brutal border area where forces beyond their control strive for dominance. The writing is excellent. His descriptions are at once haunting and grim but not without a stark beauty, as well. The dialogue is first rate and has just the right level of local color to feel authentic. I enjoyed his attention to detail with his characters’ clothes and weapons, the horses’ rigging, the weather and the utter misery of living outdoors. The people of the time display attitudes toward life and death, justice and fairness that rattle and shake our modern minds. I find it so refreshing to read a period novel that is true to the period.
I really loved the book. The main character, Richie Reade, is caught in a grinder of petty raids, political upheaval, blood feuds and just plain bad luck. Mr. Pilling manages to do more than recite historical happenings, he forces you live them with Richie as he strives to fashion a sensible life in a turbulent time. History has never been so graphic and tactile, so approachable and yet frustrating.
I admire the author’s ability to bring the times to life, to populate it with memorable characters as well as historical figures, and still make the whole enterprise a fast page turning experience. I highly recommend the book.
July 15, 2019
I enjoy reading historical fiction themed around Scotland and its fight for independence. REIVER by David Pilling describes an aspect of that struggle from the 16th century, more than 200 years after Scotland achieved independence and crowned its first king, Robert the Bruce. But the struggle continued. In some ways, REIVER reminds me of the continuing struggle of the Union/Confederacy border states following the Civil War, where one side or the other held way at any given time and the competing factions continued to struggle for many years. The March is the area in and around the border between England and Scotland, dividing the two countries politically, religiously, and geographically. It is populated by clans, families, gangs, robbers, thieves, and corrupt politicians contending with each other for control and rule. The Protestant Queen Elizabeth is on the English throne and the Catholic Mary Queen of Scots is imprisoned. The various factions struggle and fight in their attempt to establish or continue to rule. In its entirety, REIVER portrays the struggle between the factions in the border areas of the March. Most of my reading of the period has been from the viewpoint of the Scottish struggle, but REIVER portrays the English side as the protagonist. Lots of warring and fighting, with details of its horror and tactics. It's the first of a series, so more to follow.
February 5, 2019
Set in the mid 1500's on the Scottish/English border, the story is about one young fellow, Richie. The story lasts maybe a few months at best. The only character growth in Richie is that he shows the ability to lead and command. It is partially about revenge partially about an uprising. The loyal Roman Catholics on both sides of the border hope to overthrow Protestant Queen Elizabeth and put Roman Catholic Mary Tudor on the English throne.
Reivers were families of robbers, most scraping by in a miserable existence where there was no such thing as safety. The borderlands were a bloody place during this era. Raids and feuds went back and forth across the border with regularity. Alliances and betrayals of those alliances were commonplace according to the book. It does give a flavor of the time, and a variety of actions take place. The story moves along at a decent pace, but not much is accomplished in the end. As Richie rides off at the end of the story, it is obvious he will have more adventures.
There is some coarse language, some bloody scenes but it is war, and a statement or two about a sexual relationship. It is a quick read and requires little concentration to follow the story.
Reivers were families of robbers, most scraping by in a miserable existence where there was no such thing as safety. The borderlands were a bloody place during this era. Raids and feuds went back and forth across the border with regularity. Alliances and betrayals of those alliances were commonplace according to the book. It does give a flavor of the time, and a variety of actions take place. The story moves along at a decent pace, but not much is accomplished in the end. As Richie rides off at the end of the story, it is obvious he will have more adventures.
There is some coarse language, some bloody scenes but it is war, and a statement or two about a sexual relationship. It is a quick read and requires little concentration to follow the story.
November 25, 2019
This was an interesting read. In the year 1569 the border lands between Scottland and England are full of strife. All manner of criminals and outlaws roam the land and pillage the villages. When one of the most notable Reiver families attacks a village Richie Reade strikes back and is deemed a broken man, now an outlaw he and his loyal friends have to exist on their own. I have always enjoyed stories that are based on actual events in history. This story was well written and interesting beginning to end.
December 27, 2019
Have just finished Reiver and have really enjoyed it. An engrossing historical tale, written with enough historical detail to add to the narrative but not enough to slow the pace down.
The book grabs your attention on page 1 as Richie awakens to realise that his home is under attack, then it holds your attention as Richie and his friends fight to escape the consequences of his (understandable) actions in a world where "justice" is dictated by the stronger clans.
Well-paced and thoroughly researched. Recommended.
The book grabs your attention on page 1 as Richie awakens to realise that his home is under attack, then it holds your attention as Richie and his friends fight to escape the consequences of his (understandable) actions in a world where "justice" is dictated by the stronger clans.
Well-paced and thoroughly researched. Recommended.
October 8, 2020
An Engaging Tale of Murder and Mayhem set Against the Troubled Borders Region.
As a proud descendant of a Named Family of Redesdale, I have to admit to being biased in my opinion of this book. The story is well paced and draws the reader in. The main character is adequately developed, though additional novels should add more depth to his story. The use of colloquial dialogue and descriptive language allows the story to rise above two dimensional cardboard cutouts and makes the story more appealing.
As a proud descendant of a Named Family of Redesdale, I have to admit to being biased in my opinion of this book. The story is well paced and draws the reader in. The main character is adequately developed, though additional novels should add more depth to his story. The use of colloquial dialogue and descriptive language allows the story to rise above two dimensional cardboard cutouts and makes the story more appealing.
August 26, 2018
Border Reiver!
This was a truly superb read with an excellent blend of history and fiction. In fact I did not realize that a lot of the castles mentioned in the book were so involved in the rising in the North and I read a lot about them which was inspired by this story. Some are very close to me and I am determined to visit them. I feel sure that if you read this book you will also enjoy it.
This was a truly superb read with an excellent blend of history and fiction. In fact I did not realize that a lot of the castles mentioned in the book were so involved in the rising in the North and I read a lot about them which was inspired by this story. Some are very close to me and I am determined to visit them. I feel sure that if you read this book you will also enjoy it.
February 1, 2019
Driver
A wonderfully historic novel. Based on 17th Century history. The Royal & religious wars fought 're Elizabeth 1 & Mary Queen of Scots. The Reivers people's and communities basically farmers at the mercy of clans and ruffians. The characters and story plus content was well written. I feared it would be too dark & violent, that was not the case. I've no hesitation in recommend ing this highly as a historic account or just good story telling value. Enjoy.
A wonderfully historic novel. Based on 17th Century history. The Royal & religious wars fought 're Elizabeth 1 & Mary Queen of Scots. The Reivers people's and communities basically farmers at the mercy of clans and ruffians. The characters and story plus content was well written. I feared it would be too dark & violent, that was not the case. I've no hesitation in recommend ing this highly as a historic account or just good story telling value. Enjoy.
February 1, 2019
Fun Read
Having Scottish heritage on my father’s side, plus the Welsh heritage of my wife, I always enjoy reading about the struggles between the Scots and English. Even with the historical liberties of the author this was a fun read and I look forward to finding out Richies ultimate fate!
Having Scottish heritage on my father’s side, plus the Welsh heritage of my wife, I always enjoy reading about the struggles between the Scots and English. Even with the historical liberties of the author this was a fun read and I look forward to finding out Richies ultimate fate!
February 6, 2019
This wasn't a fun, romantic trip to the past, but was fascinating because my family came from the Borders (before they ran off to Orkney). I'd known they were infamous cattle thieves but never really thought about the day-to-day existence. Rough as Orkney was, maybe life as a fisherman was an improvement.
June 20, 2022
Richie O'the Bow
A gritty story of outlaw life on the borders between Scotland and Ireland. The reader feels the chill, damp and wind. Some historical characters are already familiar from reading the Chisholm and Low novels but Richie Reade is a character unto himself and I look forward to see how the author develops him further in the next two books.
A gritty story of outlaw life on the borders between Scotland and Ireland. The reader feels the chill, damp and wind. Some historical characters are already familiar from reading the Chisholm and Low novels but Richie Reade is a character unto himself and I look forward to see how the author develops him further in the next two books.
June 24, 2017
Good read.
As usual I relate to this type of novel, it's of a gripping sort that is hard to put down, with history of a nature and a bit of fiction to kee your interest..I'll read another..
As usual I relate to this type of novel, it's of a gripping sort that is hard to put down, with history of a nature and a bit of fiction to kee your interest..I'll read another..
July 22, 2018
Excellent. A good read, entertaining informative and interesting.
I look forward to the next episode with anticipation the description of conditions were particularly detailed and easy to imagine.
I look forward to the next episode with anticipation the description of conditions were particularly detailed and easy to imagine.
January 31, 2019
Fast and action packed story
The author has written a very interesting story of the conflict in England when there was a dispute about who was the rightful Queen. Very interesting story of events.
The author has written a very interesting story of the conflict in England when there was a dispute about who was the rightful Queen. Very interesting story of events.
February 22, 2019
Truly Engaging
Even knowing that the author has been a tad elastic with some of the details, this was a gripping, intriguing foray into history that is new to me. Sterling job, Mr Pilling!
Even knowing that the author has been a tad elastic with some of the details, this was a gripping, intriguing foray into history that is new to me. Sterling job, Mr Pilling!
February 27, 2019
Queen Elizabeth and Mary Queen of Scots, have many subjects on the border between England and Scotland. They are willing to die for church and queen in the savage fight between Catholics and Prodistants. This is a short glimpse into that struggle with a real feel of historical correctness.
April 29, 2019
Border wars in 16th century. Brave outlaws, great battle scenes.
Some of these people are my ancestors. Enjoyed learning how hard life was then, more history of how the tribes survived the hardships.
Some of these people are my ancestors. Enjoyed learning how hard life was then, more history of how the tribes survived the hardships.
May 27, 2019
I usually shy away from books heavy with battle descriptions, but the Marcher Lords and the political intrique that surrounded Queen Elizabeth’s relationship with her cousin Mary proved to be very compelling to this fan of all things Tudor. Will definitely read more in the series.
December 15, 2019
This story is good, just not for me. It's very thorough and historically accurate. The author knows his history but I still couldn't get through it. I think it was because there were way too many people involved and I got tired of keeping track of everyone.
February 6, 2017
Great read 1500 1600 boarder wars
Little known part of history well captured and a great man character for all to enjoy. English boarder wars late 1500s
Little known part of history well captured and a great man character for all to enjoy. English boarder wars late 1500s
April 11, 2018
Excellent Tale
A visit to a hard time when life was cheap and seldom fair. The Scottish borderlands are the setting of this tale of loss and revenge.
A visit to a hard time when life was cheap and seldom fair. The Scottish borderlands are the setting of this tale of loss and revenge.
February 2, 2019
A good read for anyone interested in this historical period. Entertaining and historically informative.
February 6, 2019
Well done
A fascinating time in history brought alive. This is historical fiction that stands with the best. It has my strong recommendation.
A fascinating time in history brought alive. This is historical fiction that stands with the best. It has my strong recommendation.
February 12, 2019
Enjoyable enough but not enough to look for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews