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The Seton Chronicles #1
The Castilians
From the Winner of the Barbara Hammond Trophy and Amazon BESTSELLING Author
‘Historical Fiction at its absolute best.’ Booklymatters
‘By the end...I find myself hoping for a sequel, which shows how much I enjoyed this excellent novel.' Historical Novel Society Review
Scotland 1546. Seeking revenge for the burning of a young preacher, a group of Protestant lairds take St Andrews Castle by stealth, and kill Cardinal Beaton, the nation's most powerful man.
Will is among them—young, zealous, and unprepared for the brutal siege that follows. As hunger and fear take hold within the castle walls, Will desperately clings to his cause.
His sister Bethia watches the chaos unfold from the town outside. With their family’s future hanging by a thread, she must choose: turn her back on the brother who could bring them ruin, or risk everything to help him.
But this is not just a struggle between sister and brother, it’s about the choices a nation must make as Henry VIII coerces from across the border, determined the infant Mary Queen of Scots will marry his son, and Scotland's alliance with France is invoked.
This award wining novel closely follows the events of the siege of St Andrews Castle in Scotland, and its dramatic re-taking.
A clever blend of fact and fiction…gripping action, drama galore, and a dash of romance.' Margaret Skea, Winner of the Beryl Bainbridge Prize
'I highly recommend this intriguing novel.' Jean M Roberts, The Books Delight
‘Kept me page turning till the wee sma’ hours.’
'The darker side of St Andrews Castle’s history, written with such delightful detail I could almost taste and smell the medieval streets of the historic town.' Lynsey Maxwell
‘Historical Fiction at its absolute best.’ Booklymatters
‘By the end...I find myself hoping for a sequel, which shows how much I enjoyed this excellent novel.' Historical Novel Society Review
Scotland 1546. Seeking revenge for the burning of a young preacher, a group of Protestant lairds take St Andrews Castle by stealth, and kill Cardinal Beaton, the nation's most powerful man.
Will is among them—young, zealous, and unprepared for the brutal siege that follows. As hunger and fear take hold within the castle walls, Will desperately clings to his cause.
His sister Bethia watches the chaos unfold from the town outside. With their family’s future hanging by a thread, she must choose: turn her back on the brother who could bring them ruin, or risk everything to help him.
But this is not just a struggle between sister and brother, it’s about the choices a nation must make as Henry VIII coerces from across the border, determined the infant Mary Queen of Scots will marry his son, and Scotland's alliance with France is invoked.
This award wining novel closely follows the events of the siege of St Andrews Castle in Scotland, and its dramatic re-taking.
A clever blend of fact and fiction…gripping action, drama galore, and a dash of romance.' Margaret Skea, Winner of the Beryl Bainbridge Prize
'I highly recommend this intriguing novel.' Jean M Roberts, The Books Delight
‘Kept me page turning till the wee sma’ hours.’
'The darker side of St Andrews Castle’s history, written with such delightful detail I could almost taste and smell the medieval streets of the historic town.' Lynsey Maxwell
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2020
1148 people are currently reading
1035 people want to read
About the author
V.E.H. Masters
5 books35 followersWould you like three free historical short stories which build on the Seton Chronicles? Visit my website https://vehmasters.com and pick up your copies of A Bonny Lass, The Sound of Silence and A Long Wait. Each tell the reader secrets which Bethia and Will do not know.
The final book in the Seton Chronicles is out now.. The Pittenweemers finds the family back in Scotland in a year of dangerous portents when the all of Scotland is in fear of the coming of the Spanish Armada. And then one day the villagers awake to find an Armada ship is here.
All my books are based on real events and follow the history closely.
I grew up on a farm near St. Andrews on the east coast of Scotland. St Andrews is famous as the home of golf but it also was a great religious centre and place of pilgrimage prior to the Reformation in 1560 – all largely disregarded when we were at school. The first time I was in the castle was aged twelve when our teacher took us on a rare visit to it. There was a famous siege there in 1546 and I was captivated when we went down the siege tunnel dug out of rock then and peered into the bottle dungeon where the murdered Cardinal's body is said to have been kept, pickled in salt, for over a year.
The group who took the castle and held it for over 14 months, resisting the many attempts to re-take it, called themselves the Castilians and I remember thinking even then it was the perfect title for a book. I just didn't realise how long it would take me to write it!
Once I'd finished the first book I continued the story of Bethia and Will as they are caught up in the religious turmoil of the Reformation. How does a family of different faiths hold together and survive when your safety depended on both where you were and what faith you adhered to?
Regular posts on my research and the wonderful nuggets of detail I find are on my website and I'd be honoured if you signed up for my monthly newsletter which often offers giveaways.
The Castilians is also available as an audiobook, narrated by the talented actor and voice artist Beverley Wright.
To find out more please go to her website https://vehmasters.com/. A short story telling more about the characters is free to all newsletter subscribers.
The final book in the Seton Chronicles is out now.. The Pittenweemers finds the family back in Scotland in a year of dangerous portents when the all of Scotland is in fear of the coming of the Spanish Armada. And then one day the villagers awake to find an Armada ship is here.
All my books are based on real events and follow the history closely.
I grew up on a farm near St. Andrews on the east coast of Scotland. St Andrews is famous as the home of golf but it also was a great religious centre and place of pilgrimage prior to the Reformation in 1560 – all largely disregarded when we were at school. The first time I was in the castle was aged twelve when our teacher took us on a rare visit to it. There was a famous siege there in 1546 and I was captivated when we went down the siege tunnel dug out of rock then and peered into the bottle dungeon where the murdered Cardinal's body is said to have been kept, pickled in salt, for over a year.
The group who took the castle and held it for over 14 months, resisting the many attempts to re-take it, called themselves the Castilians and I remember thinking even then it was the perfect title for a book. I just didn't realise how long it would take me to write it!
Once I'd finished the first book I continued the story of Bethia and Will as they are caught up in the religious turmoil of the Reformation. How does a family of different faiths hold together and survive when your safety depended on both where you were and what faith you adhered to?
Regular posts on my research and the wonderful nuggets of detail I find are on my website and I'd be honoured if you signed up for my monthly newsletter which often offers giveaways.
The Castilians is also available as an audiobook, narrated by the talented actor and voice artist Beverley Wright.
To find out more please go to her website https://vehmasters.com/. A short story telling more about the characters is free to all newsletter subscribers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 5, 2021
Don’t let the title fool you! This is not about Spain or anything Spanish. Think of Castilians as in castle—St. Andrews Castle, more specifically, in Scotland. This is the lesser-known story of a radical group of Protestants who murder Cardinal David Beaton as a punishment for burning their preacher George Wishart at the stake. They take refuge in the fortress and resist capture for eighteen months, emboldened by the later enlistment of John Knox to their cause. One of the Castilians is a somewhat misguided but loyal adherent to the cause, Will, whose sister Bethia tries to talk him into abandoning the siege. His participating in the uprising threatens the safety and welfare of his merchant family. As a result, Bethia’s parents do their utmost to marry her off before they are ruined. Unfortunately, their choice of future husband is disastrous. But Bethia is a good girl knows she must obey. She sees the unmovable Will as her only hope; if he can disassociate himself from the Castilians, maybe they can dodge the disgrace. She manages to find a way into the castle on more than one occasion, though her pleas fall on deaf ears:
Suddenly she grabs his arm. ‘Will, you must come home. If you do not, Father will make me wed Norman Wardlaw.’
‘Who?’
‘You know, Fat Norman,’
‘Oh, him. Why?’
‘Because Father says our reputation will be as nothing once it is known you are among the Castilians, and we will be punished for it.’
‘That makes no sense. Why it’s more likely to be of advantage to have me as part of the garrison.‘ He knows this isn’t so, even as he speaks, for his fellows have alienated the townsfolk.
She shakes her head. ‘You cannot prevail. I have it on good authority, from one of his officers, that Arran’s now determined to end this siege quickly. Oh Will, please come home.’
It’s no use. The siege continues, and conditions within the castle are desperate. But the defenders hang on with dogged persistence as long as they can, even though the townspeople grow less and less sympathetic as they suffer depredations from both the Castilians themselves and the government. We know things are not going to end well—what siege does? The interest is in how long these Protestants can hold out, and how poor Bethia manages to keep her head above water, metaphorically. The story is very colorful and kept my interest throughout.
Suddenly she grabs his arm. ‘Will, you must come home. If you do not, Father will make me wed Norman Wardlaw.’
‘Who?’
‘You know, Fat Norman,’
‘Oh, him. Why?’
‘Because Father says our reputation will be as nothing once it is known you are among the Castilians, and we will be punished for it.’
‘That makes no sense. Why it’s more likely to be of advantage to have me as part of the garrison.‘ He knows this isn’t so, even as he speaks, for his fellows have alienated the townsfolk.
She shakes her head. ‘You cannot prevail. I have it on good authority, from one of his officers, that Arran’s now determined to end this siege quickly. Oh Will, please come home.’
It’s no use. The siege continues, and conditions within the castle are desperate. But the defenders hang on with dogged persistence as long as they can, even though the townspeople grow less and less sympathetic as they suffer depredations from both the Castilians themselves and the government. We know things are not going to end well—what siege does? The interest is in how long these Protestants can hold out, and how poor Bethia manages to keep her head above water, metaphorically. The story is very colorful and kept my interest throughout.
March 23, 2022
I enjoyed The Castilians very much. It's a vividly realised historical fiction, set in Scotland in 1546, and is about the siege of St Andrew's Castle. The two main characters, Will and Bethia, are brother and sister, and we follow the story of the dramatic tale from both points of view, as Will is drawn into the political/religious events within the castle, and Bethia tries to rescue him and bring him home safely. It's an exciting read that adults and young adults will enjoy, and is packed with suspense and romance. It will be enjoyed by adult and YA reader
September 29, 2021
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Castilians, A Novel, A story of the siege of St Andrews Castle
Author: V E H Masters
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 7/10
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
11 thought the cover was good or excellent.
13 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
13 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I very much enjoyed the way the author mixed fact and fiction. This is a compelling tale with a cleverly woven plot and plenty happening to keep any reader happy. Although I felt the cover lacked a central image, the design, layout and editing is all top-notch.” Male reader, aged 43
“The author is not only good at describing the historical setting, se also works well with her characters. A superb story I'd recommend to any fans of historical novels.” Male reader, aged 56
“With a good balance of adventure, romance and even a little humor here and there, this retelling of the siege of Saint Andrews castle is absorbing. If you like a thrilling plot or simply have a love of history, this book is for you.” Female reader, aged 62
“I really got into this book. I don't know a lot about Scottish history, but I’m glad to say the author seems to know an awful lot. I particularly like the way she balanced showing her knowledge of the time and place with offering the reader an exciting story. Too many historical novelists overwhelm readers with facts when often, what they really want, is an exciting plot and memorable characters. This author seems to understand this and as a result the novel is excellent.” Female reader, aged 69
To Sum It Up:
‘A compelling historical drama packed full of interesting and charismatic characters. A finalist and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: The Castilians, A Novel, A story of the siege of St Andrews Castle
Author: V E H Masters
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 7/10
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
11 thought the cover was good or excellent.
13 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
13 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I very much enjoyed the way the author mixed fact and fiction. This is a compelling tale with a cleverly woven plot and plenty happening to keep any reader happy. Although I felt the cover lacked a central image, the design, layout and editing is all top-notch.” Male reader, aged 43
“The author is not only good at describing the historical setting, se also works well with her characters. A superb story I'd recommend to any fans of historical novels.” Male reader, aged 56
“With a good balance of adventure, romance and even a little humor here and there, this retelling of the siege of Saint Andrews castle is absorbing. If you like a thrilling plot or simply have a love of history, this book is for you.” Female reader, aged 62
“I really got into this book. I don't know a lot about Scottish history, but I’m glad to say the author seems to know an awful lot. I particularly like the way she balanced showing her knowledge of the time and place with offering the reader an exciting story. Too many historical novelists overwhelm readers with facts when often, what they really want, is an exciting plot and memorable characters. This author seems to understand this and as a result the novel is excellent.” Female reader, aged 69
To Sum It Up:
‘A compelling historical drama packed full of interesting and charismatic characters. A finalist and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
February 2, 2021
My Review:
Reviewers Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Plot in Brief: Set in Scotland in the 1540s, this is the story of Bethia Seaton and her family during the siege of St. Andrews which took place during the 'Rough Wooing'. Protestant Lords and their followers, including Will, Bethia's older brother, storm the castle and kill the Roman Catholic Cardinal David Beaton who lives there with his mistress. A stand off ensues as the 'Castilians' await help from King Henry VIII. Bethia's father decides her marriage to a prominent merchant, Fat Norman, will help save his finances and family reputation. But Bethia's heart is set on another.
The History: I always know I'm reading a great book when I have to stop and look up the history. This book is set during what is known as 'The Rough Wooing', King Henry VIII was determined that Mary (Queen of Scots) would marry his son, Prince Edward. At the time, Mary was only four years old. Henry thought he could bludgeon the Scots into accepting this marriage. This was also the time of the rise of Protestantism. The siege of St Andrews castle was the result of the burning of a Protestant preacher, George Wishart. I found the whole thing fascinating.
The Characters: What I loved about this book was the finely drawn characters. Bethia's family, the servants, her friends, everyone was fantastic. Each was given their own special characteristics. I had to laugh at poor sad Fat Norman who toots when he walks! Bethia was a perfect female lead; she was a keen observer and I enjoyed her balancing act on the cusp of womanhood. I also appreciate that these are everyday characters, not kings or queens, just people, living their lives. Hats off to the author for creating believable characters come to life across the pages of her story.
The Writing: Told in third person, the narrative is shared by Bethia and Will. The writing is great as is the editing. The pace is fast and I was sorry when the story ended.
Overall: I really enjoyed this novel. The setting, the history and the characters all come together in a perfect blend. I highly recommend this intriguing novel.
Rating: I give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Well-deserved Stars
Reviewers Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Plot in Brief: Set in Scotland in the 1540s, this is the story of Bethia Seaton and her family during the siege of St. Andrews which took place during the 'Rough Wooing'. Protestant Lords and their followers, including Will, Bethia's older brother, storm the castle and kill the Roman Catholic Cardinal David Beaton who lives there with his mistress. A stand off ensues as the 'Castilians' await help from King Henry VIII. Bethia's father decides her marriage to a prominent merchant, Fat Norman, will help save his finances and family reputation. But Bethia's heart is set on another.
The History: I always know I'm reading a great book when I have to stop and look up the history. This book is set during what is known as 'The Rough Wooing', King Henry VIII was determined that Mary (Queen of Scots) would marry his son, Prince Edward. At the time, Mary was only four years old. Henry thought he could bludgeon the Scots into accepting this marriage. This was also the time of the rise of Protestantism. The siege of St Andrews castle was the result of the burning of a Protestant preacher, George Wishart. I found the whole thing fascinating.
The Characters: What I loved about this book was the finely drawn characters. Bethia's family, the servants, her friends, everyone was fantastic. Each was given their own special characteristics. I had to laugh at poor sad Fat Norman who toots when he walks! Bethia was a perfect female lead; she was a keen observer and I enjoyed her balancing act on the cusp of womanhood. I also appreciate that these are everyday characters, not kings or queens, just people, living their lives. Hats off to the author for creating believable characters come to life across the pages of her story.
The Writing: Told in third person, the narrative is shared by Bethia and Will. The writing is great as is the editing. The pace is fast and I was sorry when the story ended.
Overall: I really enjoyed this novel. The setting, the history and the characters all come together in a perfect blend. I highly recommend this intriguing novel.
Rating: I give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 Well-deserved Stars
March 5, 2022
The chapters are short and episodic so the story is easy to pick up and put down. The prose is surprisingly direct and approachable. But by such straightforward means, the story creates a powerful sense of place, not just of the physical aspects of St Andrews, its town and castle, but the pressures, concerns and choices of Bethia (well-meaning but intelligent and quietly independent) and her brother Will (idealistic, impatient, a little naive, but principled) as they each make choices in a changing world.
I got a real sense of both the appeal and corruption of pre-reformation Scottish catholicism, and of the seductive promises and risks of the nascent protestantism too. Masters gives the politics of the time a human face, and works it through her characters. Literally you feel it as Bethia's family pull apart and clash, and very, very occasionally align.
Abstractly it made me appreciate how history is never really done. In our own time of seeming tribalism and renewed nationalism of all kinds, Scotland at the time of Henry VIII of England's 'rough wooing' doesn't seem so far away, or so very different. People make choices, not knowing how things will turn out.
Or you can just read this as a solid piece of story-telling, which it is!
I got a real sense of both the appeal and corruption of pre-reformation Scottish catholicism, and of the seductive promises and risks of the nascent protestantism too. Masters gives the politics of the time a human face, and works it through her characters. Literally you feel it as Bethia's family pull apart and clash, and very, very occasionally align.
Abstractly it made me appreciate how history is never really done. In our own time of seeming tribalism and renewed nationalism of all kinds, Scotland at the time of Henry VIII of England's 'rough wooing' doesn't seem so far away, or so very different. People make choices, not knowing how things will turn out.
Or you can just read this as a solid piece of story-telling, which it is!
March 29, 2022
A brother and sister who couldn’t be more different bring to life The Castilians, a novel based on the dramatic siege of St. Andrews Castle, Scotland, in 1546 (and the first volume of VEH Masters’ series, The Seton Chronicles).
The author tells a suspenseful story, keeping readers engaged as they observe how members of the same family and their neighbors respond very differently to the Protestant Reformation. Family divisions result, as well as the siege of the town’s castle. Masters vividly describes the characters’ plights and choices.
I appreciated the balanced treatment of Protestant and Catholic characters—neither were vilified because of their religious beliefs— and I was fascinated to learn that John Knox, the Scottish reformer, actually played a role in this story. In addition, the period details brought the story to life, but didn’t overwhelm me.
Initially, I struggled to glean the meaning of a few Scottish words from their context, but the glossary (near the end of the ebook), solved the problem.
I highly recommend The Castilians to readers who enjoy strong characters and an exciting story that will immerse them in a key era of Scotland’s history.
The author tells a suspenseful story, keeping readers engaged as they observe how members of the same family and their neighbors respond very differently to the Protestant Reformation. Family divisions result, as well as the siege of the town’s castle. Masters vividly describes the characters’ plights and choices.
I appreciated the balanced treatment of Protestant and Catholic characters—neither were vilified because of their religious beliefs— and I was fascinated to learn that John Knox, the Scottish reformer, actually played a role in this story. In addition, the period details brought the story to life, but didn’t overwhelm me.
Initially, I struggled to glean the meaning of a few Scottish words from their context, but the glossary (near the end of the ebook), solved the problem.
I highly recommend The Castilians to readers who enjoy strong characters and an exciting story that will immerse them in a key era of Scotland’s history.
January 31, 2021
Rare Historical Fiction:
History told with vivid detail, by an author steeped in affection for the area. Well-researched, this clearly described narrative has sights, sounds, smells and feeling. Our heroine in the tale is strong, clever, dutiful and everywhere there's action to be seen. I appreciated hearing much of this story from her point of view. Emotionally, she moves around the other characters like pieces on a chess board, while she finds ways to sort and express her own deeper longings. If you love history, you'll find a lot of it described here, and if you like action, you'll enjoy reading Will's side of the tale as he finishes his journey to adulthood. A fine read.
After reading this, I want to go and visit St. Andrews, Scotland, and feel the same rock beneath my feet. This author will sweep you away.
History told with vivid detail, by an author steeped in affection for the area. Well-researched, this clearly described narrative has sights, sounds, smells and feeling. Our heroine in the tale is strong, clever, dutiful and everywhere there's action to be seen. I appreciated hearing much of this story from her point of view. Emotionally, she moves around the other characters like pieces on a chess board, while she finds ways to sort and express her own deeper longings. If you love history, you'll find a lot of it described here, and if you like action, you'll enjoy reading Will's side of the tale as he finishes his journey to adulthood. A fine read.
After reading this, I want to go and visit St. Andrews, Scotland, and feel the same rock beneath my feet. This author will sweep you away.
October 14, 2021
Fact and fiction combined perfectly
I approached this book with some trepidation, knowing the history surrounding the real events of this time it was a revelation to find fact and fiction so wonderfully combined. The reader is taken back to this time and one can well imagine the sounds and smells ,the hustle bustle in the harbour . The characters are well drawn and you feel that you are there with them. I have recommended this book to my friends and I hope they enjoy it as much as I did.
I approached this book with some trepidation, knowing the history surrounding the real events of this time it was a revelation to find fact and fiction so wonderfully combined. The reader is taken back to this time and one can well imagine the sounds and smells ,the hustle bustle in the harbour . The characters are well drawn and you feel that you are there with them. I have recommended this book to my friends and I hope they enjoy it as much as I did.
March 31, 2022
The Seige
A great read that transports you to Scotland as The Castilians and Knox push for religious reforms while Bethia pushes to decide her own fate and who she will marry. Highly recommend.
A great read that transports you to Scotland as The Castilians and Knox push for religious reforms while Bethia pushes to decide her own fate and who she will marry. Highly recommend.
September 5, 2024
historical events at its finest
Found myself researching the historical events of the story that aspect gets 5 stars . It is what draws me to this genre. The fictional story gets 3 stars
Found myself researching the historical events of the story that aspect gets 5 stars . It is what draws me to this genre. The fictional story gets 3 stars
January 28, 2021
Really enjoyed. I loved the relationship between the siblings. it had me hook and ended up finishing at 1am as had to know how it ended.
August 10, 2021
The year is 1546 and Scotland is under attack from Henry VIII, determined to marry his son, Edward, to the infant Mary, Queen of Scots. A few among the Scottish nobles, for both political and religious reasons, are eager for this alliance, as well. The story begins with a brutal killing, a necessary one in the eyes of those seeking this union, as they kill Cardinal Beaton, Mary’s great protector, in retaliation for the burning of George Wishart, an advocate for the new Protestant faith, and they capture St Andrews Castle, with hopes of a rescue from the King of England.
While you expect this story to cleave to the historical details, which it does with great finesse, this actually becomes a story about a brother and sister, two young people trying to find their way in the midst of the political and religious upheaval surrounding them.
Will is one of the Castilians, fighting for the Protestant cause, even as he is disturbed at the horrific handling of Beaton’s murder and questions the tactics on more than one occasion. But he is loyal, and this is his strong suit during the entire story, even though his actions bring a shadow over his family, a family still caught in the middle of faithfulness to Rome and listening to the powerful words of zealots like John Knox.
Bethia, his sister, suffers from her brother’s actions in that her father thinks to marry her off quickly before anyone discovers that his son, Will, is party to the uprising. He is a man willing to use his daughter as a financial pawn, attaching her to a man who might give the family a bit of clout, and ignoring any thought of his daughter’s wishes; such was the way in the time period when women were viewed as mere chattel.
Loyalty is a huge theme in this novel – how hard will you fight for something you believe in? So often Will is given the chance to escape, often times urged by his Bethia, but his religious convictions remain powerful, even as his strength withers away in the midst of sickness, disease, and starvation. Bethia’s loyalty to her brother, in trying to protect him, brings her to the brink of her own struggle for survival. Ultimately, both of them must make choices that set them on their future course... which also sets the stage for more novels to follow in their journey (I hope!)
The historical events of the siege of St Andrews Castle, and the murder of Cardinal Beaton, is a story I did not know much about since so many historical novels lean more towards the spectacular court of Henry Tudor and his six wives – and I applaud Ms Masters for taking on this story. I also loved that she used the point of view of these two young people, adding details about a typical Scottish family during the time period, day-to-day concerns and pursuits, and their own worries when it came to politics and religion. Teenagers in Tudor Scotland transforming into strong adults with sturdy opinions about their own future and the future of Scotland - what a great setting!
The use of Scottish words and phrasing added a great flair to the book, perfect authenticity, and made the characters come alive from the page – I enjoyed this aspect very much.
My only critical analysis is the use of the present tense voice. I must admit that I am not a huge fan of this type of writing. Sometimes I was quite thrown-off by this, especially in the beginning when I felt myself having to push through the story in order to get to the thick of things. After settling into this narrative, I started to enjoy the story and more so upon reaching Bethia’s struggle to escape the castle. This descriptive passage was enthralling and gripping, well worth the effort of pushing through the choice of tense choice.
Another aspect I enjoyed was the comparison of the two religious men in the novel – John Knox and Cardinal Beaton. You see two religious devotees from the perspective of these two teenagers, of a man steeped in hypocrisy with his mistress and bastards, carried from place to place with his brash four-poster bed, and red Papal robes, against the red-faced, spittle-spraying trumpeting wordy speeches of a zealot; neither of which you might think engender endearment to their side of the church aisle, yet they do – somehow. We are given a commoner’s glimpse into the splitting of God and worship in 16th-century Scotland, along with the gruesome details of what each side was willing to do to push forward their ideas – stake-burning and fear on one side, and revolution/reformation/murder on the other.
All of this is developed very successfully and flanked by the search for love in the midst of all this chaos. Bethia and her friend, Elspeth, eye each young man as a future prospective husband, just as any young teenage girls would do, giggling over the pros and cons of each; and the soft storyline of Bethia and her first crush brings a sweetness to the harsh realities around them. But, as with most teenage romances, both girls suffer heartbreak and the consequences of their actions, as well as the choices of their families. The outcome after the siege of St Andrews for both Will and Bethia is surprising and one I dare not give away. Readers looking for a different story about Tudor history will enjoy this well-written tale!
While you expect this story to cleave to the historical details, which it does with great finesse, this actually becomes a story about a brother and sister, two young people trying to find their way in the midst of the political and religious upheaval surrounding them.
Will is one of the Castilians, fighting for the Protestant cause, even as he is disturbed at the horrific handling of Beaton’s murder and questions the tactics on more than one occasion. But he is loyal, and this is his strong suit during the entire story, even though his actions bring a shadow over his family, a family still caught in the middle of faithfulness to Rome and listening to the powerful words of zealots like John Knox.
Bethia, his sister, suffers from her brother’s actions in that her father thinks to marry her off quickly before anyone discovers that his son, Will, is party to the uprising. He is a man willing to use his daughter as a financial pawn, attaching her to a man who might give the family a bit of clout, and ignoring any thought of his daughter’s wishes; such was the way in the time period when women were viewed as mere chattel.
Loyalty is a huge theme in this novel – how hard will you fight for something you believe in? So often Will is given the chance to escape, often times urged by his Bethia, but his religious convictions remain powerful, even as his strength withers away in the midst of sickness, disease, and starvation. Bethia’s loyalty to her brother, in trying to protect him, brings her to the brink of her own struggle for survival. Ultimately, both of them must make choices that set them on their future course... which also sets the stage for more novels to follow in their journey (I hope!)
The historical events of the siege of St Andrews Castle, and the murder of Cardinal Beaton, is a story I did not know much about since so many historical novels lean more towards the spectacular court of Henry Tudor and his six wives – and I applaud Ms Masters for taking on this story. I also loved that she used the point of view of these two young people, adding details about a typical Scottish family during the time period, day-to-day concerns and pursuits, and their own worries when it came to politics and religion. Teenagers in Tudor Scotland transforming into strong adults with sturdy opinions about their own future and the future of Scotland - what a great setting!
The use of Scottish words and phrasing added a great flair to the book, perfect authenticity, and made the characters come alive from the page – I enjoyed this aspect very much.
My only critical analysis is the use of the present tense voice. I must admit that I am not a huge fan of this type of writing. Sometimes I was quite thrown-off by this, especially in the beginning when I felt myself having to push through the story in order to get to the thick of things. After settling into this narrative, I started to enjoy the story and more so upon reaching Bethia’s struggle to escape the castle. This descriptive passage was enthralling and gripping, well worth the effort of pushing through the choice of tense choice.
Another aspect I enjoyed was the comparison of the two religious men in the novel – John Knox and Cardinal Beaton. You see two religious devotees from the perspective of these two teenagers, of a man steeped in hypocrisy with his mistress and bastards, carried from place to place with his brash four-poster bed, and red Papal robes, against the red-faced, spittle-spraying trumpeting wordy speeches of a zealot; neither of which you might think engender endearment to their side of the church aisle, yet they do – somehow. We are given a commoner’s glimpse into the splitting of God and worship in 16th-century Scotland, along with the gruesome details of what each side was willing to do to push forward their ideas – stake-burning and fear on one side, and revolution/reformation/murder on the other.
All of this is developed very successfully and flanked by the search for love in the midst of all this chaos. Bethia and her friend, Elspeth, eye each young man as a future prospective husband, just as any young teenage girls would do, giggling over the pros and cons of each; and the soft storyline of Bethia and her first crush brings a sweetness to the harsh realities around them. But, as with most teenage romances, both girls suffer heartbreak and the consequences of their actions, as well as the choices of their families. The outcome after the siege of St Andrews for both Will and Bethia is surprising and one I dare not give away. Readers looking for a different story about Tudor history will enjoy this well-written tale!
October 15, 2021
This is a vivid and impressive debut which succeeds in making a significant event in Scottish history come alive, as a family is divided by forces that they do not truly understand. Historical novels are probably at their best when they concentrate on the story of one or two characters, what happened to them and why, and during the reign of Henry VIII those characters are usually royal. This book looks at events in far off St. Andrews in Scotland, the clash between the interpretations of faith, a siege of a strategically important castle. The events that follow from a single death in 1546 are seen through the experiences of two young people, bright and thoughtful Bethia, so much more than a compassionate girl, and her brother Will, determined to argue and fight for the new way of following God. Loyalty, trust and love dictates their actions, and makes them doubt their motives. The daughter and eldest son of a prosperous merchant, they are not an influential or titled family, but all strong willed enough to make a difference. The life on the streets of the town, the activities of a port, the shadow of a castle is beautifully realised. This is a book which shows evidence of a huge amount of research into the elements of life from the most basic through to the theological arguments on both sides, but it never interrupts or upsets the narrative. It creates an atmosphere of real life how it would have been lived in the houses, ale houses and the Castle itself. It does not shy away from the dirt and basics of life, but describes them in detail to forward the story. I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this excellent book which kept me enthralled throughout.
The book opens with Bethia sitting and reading, translating from a huge book. She is an unusual girl, keen to learn, unwilling to enter into the usual domestic or fashionable life of the town, willing to get involved in the family business rather than follow her mother’s obsessions. Her first action is to try and find her much loved younger brother in a crowd which could quickly become dangerous. The crowd is there to witness the execution by burning of George Wishart who has spoken against the established church, of which the grasping, ambitious Cardinal Beaton is the corrupt embodiment. When certain factions decide that something must be done, it involves many young people of the town and area. What Will witnesses from inside the castle where there is brutality and jockeying for position, and what Bethia has to face as she tries to preserve all manner of secrets and safety makes for a gripping story as people are caught up in a siege and a fight which has vast political implications as well as personal consequences for all those involved.
This is a personal book of the strength and resilience of individuals when faced with difficult circumstances. It is also about the love and loyalty between members of a family and friends which overcomes divisions and class. The character of Bethia is a strong and well drawn one, as she tries to cope with pressures to fulfil her parents wishes as well as her own wishes. Will grows from an argumentative boy to someone who must make decisions. I found this book very engaging and would recommend it to all those who enjoy discovering the personal and social implications of history.
The book opens with Bethia sitting and reading, translating from a huge book. She is an unusual girl, keen to learn, unwilling to enter into the usual domestic or fashionable life of the town, willing to get involved in the family business rather than follow her mother’s obsessions. Her first action is to try and find her much loved younger brother in a crowd which could quickly become dangerous. The crowd is there to witness the execution by burning of George Wishart who has spoken against the established church, of which the grasping, ambitious Cardinal Beaton is the corrupt embodiment. When certain factions decide that something must be done, it involves many young people of the town and area. What Will witnesses from inside the castle where there is brutality and jockeying for position, and what Bethia has to face as she tries to preserve all manner of secrets and safety makes for a gripping story as people are caught up in a siege and a fight which has vast political implications as well as personal consequences for all those involved.
This is a personal book of the strength and resilience of individuals when faced with difficult circumstances. It is also about the love and loyalty between members of a family and friends which overcomes divisions and class. The character of Bethia is a strong and well drawn one, as she tries to cope with pressures to fulfil her parents wishes as well as her own wishes. Will grows from an argumentative boy to someone who must make decisions. I found this book very engaging and would recommend it to all those who enjoy discovering the personal and social implications of history.
April 4, 2023
A really excellent book. so well written with strong characters, made even better as we know these people actually existed and these event took place.
I love historical fiction but have put it aside for a while as I do tend to stick to the same period, I have read so many Tudor History books they were getting a bit samey. This one is also the Tudor period but does not really involve Henry VIII except on the periphery.
The action takes place in Scotland in involves the siege of St Andrew's Castle. Bethia and her brothers Will and John live with their parents in a house close to St Andrew's Castle, her father is a merchant and ships goods around the world and they are quite well to do. As a girl and the only daughter Bethia is expected to learn how to be a wife, sewing, keeping house etc in the hope of making a good marriage, but she is quite a rebellious young lady and loves to read and study (which is actually frowned upon) women should be seen and not heard and do their husband's bidding. Bethia has other ideas, he father is quite relaxed with her learning and even allows her to help him with his business, doing the accounts etc and she believes she will be able to carry on doing this, but this idea is soon shattered when her mother insists on a marriage with someone really unsuitable for her.
The older of her two brother's Will is rebellious too but in quite a different way. At this time there is the reformation of the church. The protestants are striking out and want to be heard, they are preaching the bible in English whereas the Catholics believe it should be preached in Latin. The common people should not be able to read the bible, only the chosen of the Lord. They hide behind the bible and all the paraphernalia of the Catholic Church services. He joins a radical group of Protestants who after seeing their friend and preacher George Wishart burned at the stake on the order of Cardinal Beaton for preaching as a protestant, he makes this worse than is should be by demanding the wood should be green and damp thus making it last longer and be more painful.
They hatched a plot to take over the castle where the Cardinal lived, and killed him and pickled his body is salt. They manage to resist capture and stay inside the castle for 18 months and Will is amongst these men.
The story flows well and is never slow, there is something happening in every chapter to keep you going back. Bethia is a strong and fearless heroine, and the book is well researched.
There are two further books by this author the next one follow Berthia to Antwerp with her new husband, That is already on my Kindle ready to be read.
I love historical fiction but have put it aside for a while as I do tend to stick to the same period, I have read so many Tudor History books they were getting a bit samey. This one is also the Tudor period but does not really involve Henry VIII except on the periphery.
The action takes place in Scotland in involves the siege of St Andrew's Castle. Bethia and her brothers Will and John live with their parents in a house close to St Andrew's Castle, her father is a merchant and ships goods around the world and they are quite well to do. As a girl and the only daughter Bethia is expected to learn how to be a wife, sewing, keeping house etc in the hope of making a good marriage, but she is quite a rebellious young lady and loves to read and study (which is actually frowned upon) women should be seen and not heard and do their husband's bidding. Bethia has other ideas, he father is quite relaxed with her learning and even allows her to help him with his business, doing the accounts etc and she believes she will be able to carry on doing this, but this idea is soon shattered when her mother insists on a marriage with someone really unsuitable for her.
The older of her two brother's Will is rebellious too but in quite a different way. At this time there is the reformation of the church. The protestants are striking out and want to be heard, they are preaching the bible in English whereas the Catholics believe it should be preached in Latin. The common people should not be able to read the bible, only the chosen of the Lord. They hide behind the bible and all the paraphernalia of the Catholic Church services. He joins a radical group of Protestants who after seeing their friend and preacher George Wishart burned at the stake on the order of Cardinal Beaton for preaching as a protestant, he makes this worse than is should be by demanding the wood should be green and damp thus making it last longer and be more painful.
They hatched a plot to take over the castle where the Cardinal lived, and killed him and pickled his body is salt. They manage to resist capture and stay inside the castle for 18 months and Will is amongst these men.
The story flows well and is never slow, there is something happening in every chapter to keep you going back. Bethia is a strong and fearless heroine, and the book is well researched.
There are two further books by this author the next one follow Berthia to Antwerp with her new husband, That is already on my Kindle ready to be read.
March 30, 2022
This debut novel is based on the actual history of the assassination of Cardinal Beaton and taking of St. Andrew’s Castle by Protestants in 1546. Bethia and her brother Will in the castle are fictional characters, but many others are historical. How accurate their personalities are, I couldn’t say. The author treads a fine line on how “godly” these Protestants actually are. Will is sincere without showing any particular evidence of a personal relationship with Christ. A lot of the others pillage the town and surrounding countryside and seem to have personal motives rather than spiritual, like many of those involved in the 1536 Pilgrimage of Grace (on the Catholic side) in England. I would not say that John Knox comes off as an admirable character here although Will has great admiration for the martyred preacher George Wishart.
The plot has a number of twists and turns over the 18 months of the siege, mostly following historical accounts. A marriage is arranged for Bethia, who has no choice in the matter. There are two other suitors, either one of which would be more desirable, and Bethia seems a bit fickle to consider them both, but when she knows the choice isn’t really hers, I guess it doesn’t matter.
Although the author has obviously done a lot of research and includes lots of historical information, it fits nicely into the story and does not feel like an information dump. I look forward to reading the second book.
The plot has a number of twists and turns over the 18 months of the siege, mostly following historical accounts. A marriage is arranged for Bethia, who has no choice in the matter. There are two other suitors, either one of which would be more desirable, and Bethia seems a bit fickle to consider them both, but when she knows the choice isn’t really hers, I guess it doesn’t matter.
Although the author has obviously done a lot of research and includes lots of historical information, it fits nicely into the story and does not feel like an information dump. I look forward to reading the second book.
November 10, 2021
Interesting
This is an interesting account of a famous event in Scottish history. As a descendent of one of the participants I have studied what can be known and the author has been faithful to the facts whilst adding a good story. My one complaint - I HATE books written in the present tense. I usually don’t get beyond the first chapter. That I finished this was quite an achievement.
This is an interesting account of a famous event in Scottish history. As a descendent of one of the participants I have studied what can be known and the author has been faithful to the facts whilst adding a good story. My one complaint - I HATE books written in the present tense. I usually don’t get beyond the first chapter. That I finished this was quite an achievement.
May 3, 2021
Interesting Historical Story
I enjoyed this story based not only on a historical event in Scotland, but also was a tale of a family dealing with this situation, but the customs and beliefs of the era. I really enjoyed the character Bethia and the courage she showed. Loyal and concerned about her family, she resisted being used as a pawn. Good plot and realistic characters.
I enjoyed this story based not only on a historical event in Scotland, but also was a tale of a family dealing with this situation, but the customs and beliefs of the era. I really enjoyed the character Bethia and the courage she showed. Loyal and concerned about her family, she resisted being used as a pawn. Good plot and realistic characters.
January 28, 2023
Wonderful historical accounting of the beginnings of protestant movement in Scotland
The conflicts in this story center around religion, but also include the ageless battle between men and women. The author does a superb job describing people, events and life in this ancient Scottish town.
The conflicts in this story center around religion, but also include the ageless battle between men and women. The author does a superb job describing people, events and life in this ancient Scottish town.
Read
December 4, 2022Very disappointed. Would not recommend it.
January 28, 2023
Good read
Interesting story line covering a little known chapter of Scottish history. Highlights real people and events. Kept me reading to find " what's next. " Had a couple of convenient but awkward situations occur to bring story to resolution. Still, was intriguing, informational, and satisfying.
Interesting story line covering a little known chapter of Scottish history. Highlights real people and events. Kept me reading to find " what's next. " Had a couple of convenient but awkward situations occur to bring story to resolution. Still, was intriguing, informational, and satisfying.
May 18, 2021
Set in what reads as a very authentic 16th century Scotland, this story centres around Bethia, her brother Will and the evil Cardinal Beaton, who is filling his own pockets and building the Church on the back of the poor. After witnessing how the Cardinal deals with those who oppose him and the Church, Will begins to defy the Catholic Church.
Will joins a group of like-minded people who see the need for reform in the church but he must tread carefully, his father wants none of it. The group seek to imprison the Cardinal and put him on trial. Then after Will is part of a group, “The Castilians", that takes the Castle where the Cardinal resides by force, things will never be the same again.
The Cardinal will soon be the least of their worries. For Will has taken a decision that makes him a traitor, and as he and the others are held up in a castle with a hostage, he has made choices that will change his life forever. Bethia has not forgotten him, and neither have their parents.
Even more striking than the fascinating historical setting are the relationships between this family, in particular between Bethia and Will. She will do everything she can to help her brother – she knows he’s just following his heart to do what he believes is right. Has he traversed a bridge too far? Resisting an ‘easy way out’, his fellow Castilians want to follow this siege of the Castle through to the bitter end.
This is a story about family and faith, full of memorable characters that will pull you into their world. It’s an extremely well-written historical novel, the best I’ve read since Kate Grenville’s ‘The Lieutenant’, and that’s high praise indeed. Highly recommended!
Will joins a group of like-minded people who see the need for reform in the church but he must tread carefully, his father wants none of it. The group seek to imprison the Cardinal and put him on trial. Then after Will is part of a group, “The Castilians", that takes the Castle where the Cardinal resides by force, things will never be the same again.
The Cardinal will soon be the least of their worries. For Will has taken a decision that makes him a traitor, and as he and the others are held up in a castle with a hostage, he has made choices that will change his life forever. Bethia has not forgotten him, and neither have their parents.
Even more striking than the fascinating historical setting are the relationships between this family, in particular between Bethia and Will. She will do everything she can to help her brother – she knows he’s just following his heart to do what he believes is right. Has he traversed a bridge too far? Resisting an ‘easy way out’, his fellow Castilians want to follow this siege of the Castle through to the bitter end.
This is a story about family and faith, full of memorable characters that will pull you into their world. It’s an extremely well-written historical novel, the best I’ve read since Kate Grenville’s ‘The Lieutenant’, and that’s high praise indeed. Highly recommended!
August 10, 2023
History told via a fictional tale, well captured historic Scottish family lifestyle, well portrayed actual rivalry between clans and Sottish/English difference and religious pressures brought on by the spread of Protestantism. Good read, compelling and captivating, with protagonists easy to identify with.
Highly recommended if Scottish history is of interest, or a good read even without that interest.
Highly recommended if Scottish history is of interest, or a good read even without that interest.
June 10, 2024
This book was pretty good. I liked that the romance wasn’t over done. Bethia, while adventurous, is a thoughtful, obedient (usually) young woman. Will knows his mind even when faced with hard decisions.
I would recommend this book to others and will read the second book in the series.
I would recommend this book to others and will read the second book in the series.
April 17, 2025
Gave up page 160. Tedious. Sorry, I really wanted to like this series.
March 27, 2021
Excellent read. Enlightening account of the siege of St. Andrews Castle. The main characters are fictional but painted vividly and realistically into the narrative. The bond between them and the struggles they both face make for an absorbing read.
June 21, 2021
Engaging and informative
St Andrews was my first university.
It was not until long after I had departed thence that I had the good fortune to stumble across this excellent book.
I now wish that I had known then, as an undergraduate, what I have now been taught by The Castilians.
This well-researched historical novel serves to reinforce powerfully the oft-repeated axiom that education is wasted upon the young.
For this mending of a lamentable lacuna in my knowledge of this tumultuous period of Scottish history, I am deeply indebted to its author, Ms Masters.
It is a book well-written, eminently readable and thoroughly enjoyable.
To deny yourself the pleasure and profit of reading The Castilians would be the utmost folly.
St Andrews was my first university.
It was not until long after I had departed thence that I had the good fortune to stumble across this excellent book.
I now wish that I had known then, as an undergraduate, what I have now been taught by The Castilians.
This well-researched historical novel serves to reinforce powerfully the oft-repeated axiom that education is wasted upon the young.
For this mending of a lamentable lacuna in my knowledge of this tumultuous period of Scottish history, I am deeply indebted to its author, Ms Masters.
It is a book well-written, eminently readable and thoroughly enjoyable.
To deny yourself the pleasure and profit of reading The Castilians would be the utmost folly.
March 28, 2023
Slow history, but worth it
Immersive history of merchant life and tribulations in the era. Written from the point of view of the elder children , caught in the political and economic tides of power.
Immersive history of merchant life and tribulations in the era. Written from the point of view of the elder children , caught in the political and economic tides of power.
April 18, 2023
I found it a bit pedestrian, but the characters became more rounded as the tale progressed. I look forward to reading the sequels
September 15, 2024
Great story
Easy to read hard to put down. The story is very descriptive and captivating.
I am anxious to read book two!
Easy to read hard to put down. The story is very descriptive and captivating.
I am anxious to read book two!
June 19, 2021
I enjoyed this novel, reminds me why I love HF, intelligent fiction provides windows into events and places I previously knew nothing about. This novel is set in St Andrews, Scotland at the time of Henry VIII. I get so bored with constantly hearing about Henry’s wives. So many books about the Boleyns!
This is an entirely different take on the time when Scotland was Catholic, independent, and struggling between the European power of France and England! Sound familiar? It is well written and researched, the author brings the story to life in the way, for me, only fiction, rather than dusty textbooks can.
The events of the castle siege are described through the eyes of Bethia, a wealthy merchant’s daughter, when St Andrews was a major trading hub across Europe.
This is an entirely different take on the time when Scotland was Catholic, independent, and struggling between the European power of France and England! Sound familiar? It is well written and researched, the author brings the story to life in the way, for me, only fiction, rather than dusty textbooks can.
The events of the castle siege are described through the eyes of Bethia, a wealthy merchant’s daughter, when St Andrews was a major trading hub across Europe.
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