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David Balfour #2
Catriona
"'Catriona' so reeks and hums with genius that there is no refuge for the desperate reader but in straightforward prostration." - Henry James
Robert Louis Stevenson considered Catriona, the lively sequel to Kidnapped, his best work. At the end of Kidnapped, young David Balfour enters an Edinburgh bank to claim his inheritance., In the opening scene of Catriona, he comes out moneybags in hand. While Balfour entered the bank a somewhat stolid teenager; he exits into young manhood to contend with all the complexities of politics, love, and family
316 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1893
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About the author
Robert Louis Stevenson
6,829 books6,940 followersRobert Louis Balfour Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer, and a leading representative of English literature. He was greatly admired by many authors, including Jorge Luis Borges, Ernest Hemingway, Rudyard Kipling and Vladimir Nabokov.
Most modernist writers dismissed him, however, because he was popular and did not write within their narrow definition of literature. It is only recently that critics have begun to look beyond Stevenson's popularity and allow him a place in the Western canon.
Most modernist writers dismissed him, however, because he was popular and did not write within their narrow definition of literature. It is only recently that critics have begun to look beyond Stevenson's popularity and allow him a place in the Western canon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
July 5, 2023
David Balfour (also known as Catriona) is a sequel to the great classic Kidnapped though not as good, it still delivers excitement . Young David after many adventures arrives finally in Edinburgh, Scotland to receive his fortune, he hopes. However being 1751 a few years after the Jacobite rebellion of 1745, tension permeates, every man in the territory is under suspicion and especially Mr. Balfour, who is still a wanted person, by the English...what can he do? The eighteen -year -old needs help desperately, someone to prove he's innocent but how , to a murder charge.... First get the inheritance and with literally a bag of money in hand, he unexpectedly yet joyfully meets Catriona Drummond (hence the title). Granddaughter of the notorious Rob Roy in the streets of the glorious city, the capital of the Scottish nation, he naturally falls in love at first sight with the pretty girl. You can guess if she returns the sentiment, yes you guessed right. Catriona's uncle had helped David escape the Red Coats, in his incredible harrowing journey with Alan Breck Stewart, across rugged Scotland. Her father is James More (James MacGregor Drummond, Rob Roy's son) , not his real name people used many aliases back then you can imagine why. Mr. More is in a bad situation in jail, also there Alan Breck Stewart (James of the Glens ) going on trial soon for killing an important man, in fact the same case as David's. Political events have made Stewart's conviction vital for the British, they don't care whether he shot Colin Campbell Glenure the dead man or not. Glenure's clan, wants revenge and the English need their support in bringing peace here to this often distressed land. A lawyer cautions the fugitive not to turn himself in to the authorities, without being free of charges. Like the ancient adage, a fool and his money are soon parted.
Of course nobody listens to an attorney and the boy doesn't either , naturally . Still he visits the powerful Lord Advocate Mr.Prestongrange, who seems more interested in the arrest of Alan Breck, then of him. Let loose, but shortly afterwards captured by smugglers and held for ransom, a big pile of money they say, he is back on another isle off the Scottish coast. Mr. Balfour has doubts, the real reason he believes is that he won't be a witness in the trial of Alan Breck Stewart, a man not known for his goodness, yet he is Catriona's uncle and at least not the murderer of Glenure...David somehow, has to and needs to escape from these criminals, testify in court, before it's too late , see his friend Alan again and get that man out of Scotland...His future happiness depends on this impossible task... Good follow up to the original by the talented, maybe even the genius of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Of course nobody listens to an attorney and the boy doesn't either , naturally . Still he visits the powerful Lord Advocate Mr.Prestongrange, who seems more interested in the arrest of Alan Breck, then of him. Let loose, but shortly afterwards captured by smugglers and held for ransom, a big pile of money they say, he is back on another isle off the Scottish coast. Mr. Balfour has doubts, the real reason he believes is that he won't be a witness in the trial of Alan Breck Stewart, a man not known for his goodness, yet he is Catriona's uncle and at least not the murderer of Glenure...David somehow, has to and needs to escape from these criminals, testify in court, before it's too late , see his friend Alan again and get that man out of Scotland...His future happiness depends on this impossible task... Good follow up to the original by the talented, maybe even the genius of Robert Louis Stevenson.
November 7, 2023
Since my read of Kidnapped, I wanted to read its sequel, Catriona. But from my experience, I'm always very cautious when I tread on that ground, for more than once, I have been disappointed in that quarter. But Catriona didn't disappoint me.
Catriona continues with the adventures of young David Balfour that began in Kidnapped. Having cleared his inheritance, he must save his honour on which a cloud hangs following the Appin murder. And he must also help his friend Alan Breck Stewart to flee to his exile in France. In Extricating himself and helping Alan to safety, David exercises a greater strength of character, courage, loyalty, and principle. Though a young man, he surpasses the maturity of a grown-up in executing his duties. David's character was more developed and solidified here that I liked him as much as I liked him in Kidnapped. In addition to these daring adventures, young David finds love too. This is where our young hero shows his naivety and awkwardness. The daring young man in peril utterly blunders in his romantic efforts and almost loses the love of his life if not for the kind intervening hand of his friend Alan. :)
Alan Breck Stewart, who played a significant role in Kidnapped, makes his appearance here as well. Although his presence is less, the significance of his role is not diminished, for he plays a vital role in securing David's future happiness. The most colourful character, however, was Catriona; the young, spirited heroine, who is trapped between her love for David and her loyalty to a villainous father. In all my reading of Stevenson, I can't recall him giving much prominence to a female heroine (except in Black Arrow perhaps) and it was a pleasing highlight of the story.
When compared with Kidnapped, however, the story of Catriona moves slow. It is less of action and adventure. Yet, there was enough adventure, and enough interest in the story and character for me to enjoy it as much as Kidnapped. It's always a challenge to write a sequel to a novel beloved by many as the expectation would be quite high. Stevenson has taken up this daunting challenge and has come out triumphant.
Catriona continues with the adventures of young David Balfour that began in Kidnapped. Having cleared his inheritance, he must save his honour on which a cloud hangs following the Appin murder. And he must also help his friend Alan Breck Stewart to flee to his exile in France. In Extricating himself and helping Alan to safety, David exercises a greater strength of character, courage, loyalty, and principle. Though a young man, he surpasses the maturity of a grown-up in executing his duties. David's character was more developed and solidified here that I liked him as much as I liked him in Kidnapped. In addition to these daring adventures, young David finds love too. This is where our young hero shows his naivety and awkwardness. The daring young man in peril utterly blunders in his romantic efforts and almost loses the love of his life if not for the kind intervening hand of his friend Alan. :)
Alan Breck Stewart, who played a significant role in Kidnapped, makes his appearance here as well. Although his presence is less, the significance of his role is not diminished, for he plays a vital role in securing David's future happiness. The most colourful character, however, was Catriona; the young, spirited heroine, who is trapped between her love for David and her loyalty to a villainous father. In all my reading of Stevenson, I can't recall him giving much prominence to a female heroine (except in Black Arrow perhaps) and it was a pleasing highlight of the story.
When compared with Kidnapped, however, the story of Catriona moves slow. It is less of action and adventure. Yet, there was enough adventure, and enough interest in the story and character for me to enjoy it as much as Kidnapped. It's always a challenge to write a sequel to a novel beloved by many as the expectation would be quite high. Stevenson has taken up this daunting challenge and has come out triumphant.
January 10, 2021
“‘You deal with me very frankly, and I thank you for it,' said I. 'I will try on my side to be no less honest. I believe these deep duties may lie upon your lordship; I believe you may have laid them on your conscience when you took the oaths of the high office which you hold. But for me, who am just a plain man--or scarce a man yet--the plain duties must suffice. I can think but of two things, of a poor soul in the immediate and unjust danger of a shameful death, and of the cries and tears of his wife that still tingle in my head. I cannot see beyond, my lord. It's the way I am made. If the country has to fall, it has to fall. And I pray God, if this is wilful blindness, that He may enlighten me before too late.’”
This book, originally published as Catriona, is the sequel to Kidnapped, and the plot of this book picks up right at the point that Kidnapped leaves off. David Balfour is doing his best to set the record straight on the Appin Murder of a Campbell, but it soon becomes apparant that his factual statement is only muddying the waters of a case that has already been decided. James Stewart must swing. The Campbells work closely with the English, while the Stewarts are still doing their level best to reduce the stranglehold of England on Scotland. It only makes sense that, if a Campbell be lying in his own blood, a Stewart must have been the instigator of his death. It doesn’t really matter which Stewart hangs for it, so why not have the one that is most a thorn in the side of England swing from the gibbet.
”’Andie,’ said I, laying my hand upon his knee, ‘this Hielandman’s innocent.’
‘Ay, it’s a peety about that,’ said he. ‘But ye see in this world, the way God made it, we canna just get a thing that we want.’”
David is young enough to still believe that justice will prevail, that fairness is still the basis of the law, but he soon discovers that the system is designed to help those in power to keep control of the rest of us. He even is kidnapped and held on an island until his testimony will no longer be relevant to the trial. He’s lucky he doesn’t receive a deep probing strike in the kidneys for his trouble.
David meets Catriona Drummond, the daughter of another arrested Scot who is going by the name of James More. David is smitten by her, and the trials and tribulations of the second half of the book revolve around his uncertain relationship with her. Catriona’s father is a rogue, a manipulator, a man in constant need of funds. David and Catriona end up in Holland, her without a red cent and he unable to leave her to her fate. David suggests that she be his sister so they can rent a place together without creating a scandal. Her father, when he arrives, is less concerned about her reputation as he is about liberating some of David’s money for his own uses. Stevenson employs the classic boy meets girl, boy wins girl, boy loses girl plot device. We know that they must end up together, but there are certainly times during the novel when I was unsure how that could possibly be accomplished. Stevenson had his own problems with a woman, his future wife Fanny. He met Fanny in Europe, she returned to San Francisco, he followed her despite being ill and convinced her to divorce her husband to be with him. I can only imagine the emotional uncertainty he was under through the whole process. Certainly, David suffers numerous psychological setbacks in his pursuit of his true love.
Alan Breck Stewart also shows up for part of the book. He is Balfour’s stalwart companion in Kidnapped and is still trying his level best to keep his feet from swinging over the ground under an English gibbet. Unfortunately, this novel does not have the action that Alan is such a part of in the first book. I do think that Stevenson misses one opportunity to add some spice to this novel. At one point, Catriona devises a scheme to free her father from prison, and Stevenson chooses to have that happen offstage. I would have dearly loved to have had Stevenson describe the sequence of events as they were happening.
Stevenson, as he does in all of his novels, weaves in some Scottish expressions to the plot like whilly whas, hag-rode, and byke of wasps. I really liked this one: ”But he has need of a long spoon when he sups with the de(v)il.” Or how about this one: ”’Catriona,’ said Alan, ‘ye’ll have to excuse me, my dear; but there’s nothing less than my fine bones upon the cast of it, and I’ll have to break this seal.’” At points, Stevenson’s brogue is so thick I have to read a sentence a few times to catch what he be saying. Though I’m sure it will make some readers uncomfortable, he is doing his best to place the reader not only in Scotland but in 18th century Scotland.
This isn’t as exciting a book as Kidnapped, but I’m still glad to have read the end of Balfour’s story, and getting reacquainted with Alan Breck Stewart was also a treat. J. M. Barrie mentioned in one of his letters with Stevenson that he hoped that Stevenson had left Alan alive and well. It is nice to think of the possibility that Alan Breck can still emerge from over the crest of the steep hill and descend the heather the moment that we need him most.
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com I also have a Facebook blogger page at:https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten and an Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/jeffreykeeten/
This book, originally published as Catriona, is the sequel to Kidnapped, and the plot of this book picks up right at the point that Kidnapped leaves off. David Balfour is doing his best to set the record straight on the Appin Murder of a Campbell, but it soon becomes apparant that his factual statement is only muddying the waters of a case that has already been decided. James Stewart must swing. The Campbells work closely with the English, while the Stewarts are still doing their level best to reduce the stranglehold of England on Scotland. It only makes sense that, if a Campbell be lying in his own blood, a Stewart must have been the instigator of his death. It doesn’t really matter which Stewart hangs for it, so why not have the one that is most a thorn in the side of England swing from the gibbet.
”’Andie,’ said I, laying my hand upon his knee, ‘this Hielandman’s innocent.’
‘Ay, it’s a peety about that,’ said he. ‘But ye see in this world, the way God made it, we canna just get a thing that we want.’”
David is young enough to still believe that justice will prevail, that fairness is still the basis of the law, but he soon discovers that the system is designed to help those in power to keep control of the rest of us. He even is kidnapped and held on an island until his testimony will no longer be relevant to the trial. He’s lucky he doesn’t receive a deep probing strike in the kidneys for his trouble.
David meets Catriona Drummond, the daughter of another arrested Scot who is going by the name of James More. David is smitten by her, and the trials and tribulations of the second half of the book revolve around his uncertain relationship with her. Catriona’s father is a rogue, a manipulator, a man in constant need of funds. David and Catriona end up in Holland, her without a red cent and he unable to leave her to her fate. David suggests that she be his sister so they can rent a place together without creating a scandal. Her father, when he arrives, is less concerned about her reputation as he is about liberating some of David’s money for his own uses. Stevenson employs the classic boy meets girl, boy wins girl, boy loses girl plot device. We know that they must end up together, but there are certainly times during the novel when I was unsure how that could possibly be accomplished. Stevenson had his own problems with a woman, his future wife Fanny. He met Fanny in Europe, she returned to San Francisco, he followed her despite being ill and convinced her to divorce her husband to be with him. I can only imagine the emotional uncertainty he was under through the whole process. Certainly, David suffers numerous psychological setbacks in his pursuit of his true love.
Alan Breck Stewart also shows up for part of the book. He is Balfour’s stalwart companion in Kidnapped and is still trying his level best to keep his feet from swinging over the ground under an English gibbet. Unfortunately, this novel does not have the action that Alan is such a part of in the first book. I do think that Stevenson misses one opportunity to add some spice to this novel. At one point, Catriona devises a scheme to free her father from prison, and Stevenson chooses to have that happen offstage. I would have dearly loved to have had Stevenson describe the sequence of events as they were happening.
Stevenson, as he does in all of his novels, weaves in some Scottish expressions to the plot like whilly whas, hag-rode, and byke of wasps. I really liked this one: ”But he has need of a long spoon when he sups with the de(v)il.” Or how about this one: ”’Catriona,’ said Alan, ‘ye’ll have to excuse me, my dear; but there’s nothing less than my fine bones upon the cast of it, and I’ll have to break this seal.’” At points, Stevenson’s brogue is so thick I have to read a sentence a few times to catch what he be saying. Though I’m sure it will make some readers uncomfortable, he is doing his best to place the reader not only in Scotland but in 18th century Scotland.
This isn’t as exciting a book as Kidnapped, but I’m still glad to have read the end of Balfour’s story, and getting reacquainted with Alan Breck Stewart was also a treat. J. M. Barrie mentioned in one of his letters with Stevenson that he hoped that Stevenson had left Alan alive and well. It is nice to think of the possibility that Alan Breck can still emerge from over the crest of the steep hill and descend the heather the moment that we need him most.
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com I also have a Facebook blogger page at:https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten and an Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/jeffreykeeten/
January 9, 2023
Catriona by Robert Louis Stevenson is another difficult read for a modern reader, not just because of the antiquated language, but because of the dialects by which conversation is conveyed. Despite the complexity, the story is a sequel to the really good novel Kidnapped with the historical figure David Balfour during the Rob Roy period. There is creative license taken with the novelizing of historical figures, and I admit that the writing of Scottish brogues takes me out of the story which made the reading of this novel rather problematic, but I have to also admit that there is something magical about the writing. Robert Louis Stevenson was a genius storyteller and so I believe that this romantic story works despite the challenges to a modern reader. An asterisked footnote may have helped to translate the dialects into an understandable discourse. It still may have interrupted the narrative flow, but it would have presented both languages, one that would demonstrate the dialect and the footnoted translation to illustrate how it would sound to a modern audience. Consequently, this was a challenging read.
April 10, 2021
I can picture the conversation RLS must have had with his publisher:
"Bobbie! Babes! The word's back on 'Kidnapped'! It's a hit, Bobster; a certified gold-plated hit! We gotta get the sequel underway pronto, Bobs! Right quick! This time, though, how 'bout you put something in fer the dames? You KNOW it makes sense!"
It's true; in this sequel to 'Kidnapped', RLS has served up a hefty dose of romance but there's still a fair bit of action and intrigue for fans of the first book. Buckles are still swashed aplenty. In fact, this book has a more exciting ending if anything.
It's good stuff, even if the cover makes it look like the titular lady has just done a particularly bad fart that has brought our hero to his knees... or perhaps that's just me.
My next book: Marvel Masterworks: The Defenders vol. 4
"Bobbie! Babes! The word's back on 'Kidnapped'! It's a hit, Bobster; a certified gold-plated hit! We gotta get the sequel underway pronto, Bobs! Right quick! This time, though, how 'bout you put something in fer the dames? You KNOW it makes sense!"
It's true; in this sequel to 'Kidnapped', RLS has served up a hefty dose of romance but there's still a fair bit of action and intrigue for fans of the first book. Buckles are still swashed aplenty. In fact, this book has a more exciting ending if anything.
It's good stuff, even if the cover makes it look like the titular lady has just done a particularly bad fart that has brought our hero to his knees... or perhaps that's just me.
My next book: Marvel Masterworks: The Defenders vol. 4
March 14, 2020
The second half of David Balfour’s story (often known as “Catriona,” the alternate title), which is the tale of what happens next. There’s a great deal more that David has to go through before he will be able to claim his heritage in peace.
Content: profanity
Lots of Scotch dialect in this one.
Content: profanity
Lots of Scotch dialect in this one.
January 25, 2014
It's pronounced 'Katrina' btw.
'Catriona' is the sequel to 'Kidnapped', and, in fact, the story starts exactly where Kidnapped finishes off the story of David Balfour's involvement with the Appin murder. In that, it's less than a sequel as that part of the narrative is more social and political intrigue and description of David's character, than it is an action-adventure novel. In fact, it turns into a very finely drawn romance.
The description of Edinburgh, its environs at the time, and the run to the sea, and the incarceration on Bass Rock, is beautifully drawn. I live close by, and found the historic touches and references, absorbing.
The use of Scots language might be problematic to many, 'tho, and I'd advise non-natives to read it in a version with a good appendix for background explanation. I had to refer to Google a couple of times.
The second half of the novel is a romance, drawn with such a fine hand on the mores of the day, that it would do Jane Austin credit. And from the male perspective to boot!
It's an enchanting tale, and the depth of character, narrative, social and political history is stunning. I'd love to see it adapted for moving image properly. It would make a great series, given the amount of small folks lives inter-mingled with greater moments in history.
Just don't watch the movie from the 1970s with Michael Caine! It's nothing like either book!
'Catriona' is the sequel to 'Kidnapped', and, in fact, the story starts exactly where Kidnapped finishes off the story of David Balfour's involvement with the Appin murder. In that, it's less than a sequel as that part of the narrative is more social and political intrigue and description of David's character, than it is an action-adventure novel. In fact, it turns into a very finely drawn romance.
The description of Edinburgh, its environs at the time, and the run to the sea, and the incarceration on Bass Rock, is beautifully drawn. I live close by, and found the historic touches and references, absorbing.
The use of Scots language might be problematic to many, 'tho, and I'd advise non-natives to read it in a version with a good appendix for background explanation. I had to refer to Google a couple of times.
The second half of the novel is a romance, drawn with such a fine hand on the mores of the day, that it would do Jane Austin credit. And from the male perspective to boot!
It's an enchanting tale, and the depth of character, narrative, social and political history is stunning. I'd love to see it adapted for moving image properly. It would make a great series, given the amount of small folks lives inter-mingled with greater moments in history.
Just don't watch the movie from the 1970s with Michael Caine! It's nothing like either book!
August 15, 2025
A very interesting, moving sequel to Kidnapped. The romance was very endearing and sweet, and the other relationships with other characters at times ridiculous and frustrating but also realistic. Stevenson is such a master of telling a good story, and this tale of boyhood maturing into a man is phenomenal. I honestly might like it better than Kidnapped.
June 24, 2011
Having read this through, I now see why so many of Stevenson's faithful panned this book. It's predecessor, Kidnapped, was a 'story for boys', an action tale in the tradition of Sir Walter Scott. One thing I've always noticed about Kidnapped, though, is that it's also a Comedy of Manners. David Balfour continually fails to understand his uncle, Allen Breck, and a vast host of others because they don't behave the way he expects. Stevenson has especial fun, I think, with the fact that nearly all of these characters are Scottsmen, which outsiders probably lumped into one huge, cultural pile, whereas Stevenson continues to show the difference between Highlander and Lowlander. Of course, he also shows the difference between those who believe the fine ideas they spout and those who simply spout them and then behave as they will, something David has trouble grasping at times, too.
Catriona continues in this vein, but almost completely abandons action, save for two, possibly three rather brief sequences, and plunges completely into the Comedy of Manners. It's a rather good one, too—many of the characters are a bit 'stage' although some or not, but David has to learn to navigate worldviews with which he still, after all his lessons in the previous novel, has some problems. The relationship between Catriona and David, especially when they get to the Netherlands, is all Manners and mistakes, right up 'til end, when Alan rescues matters after making perhaps the penultimate statement about the core problem in any CoM: "But that’s the strange thing about you folk of the college learning: ye’re ignorat, and ye cannae see ’t. Wae’s me for my Greek and Hebrew; but, man, I ken that I dinnae ken them - there’s the differ of it."
It's a lovely Comedy of Manners, and anyone who likes them will, I think, like this novel. Anyone who expects the near-constant peril of Kidnapped will likely be disappointed.
Catriona continues in this vein, but almost completely abandons action, save for two, possibly three rather brief sequences, and plunges completely into the Comedy of Manners. It's a rather good one, too—many of the characters are a bit 'stage' although some or not, but David has to learn to navigate worldviews with which he still, after all his lessons in the previous novel, has some problems. The relationship between Catriona and David, especially when they get to the Netherlands, is all Manners and mistakes, right up 'til end, when Alan rescues matters after making perhaps the penultimate statement about the core problem in any CoM: "But that’s the strange thing about you folk of the college learning: ye’re ignorat, and ye cannae see ’t. Wae’s me for my Greek and Hebrew; but, man, I ken that I dinnae ken them - there’s the differ of it."
It's a lovely Comedy of Manners, and anyone who likes them will, I think, like this novel. Anyone who expects the near-constant peril of Kidnapped will likely be disappointed.
October 27, 2008
No, this isn't as good at Kidnapped. I fully admit to being a sap in saying that I enjoyed it, for it isn't the high-flying adventure story that the first book is - at all. No, here we have Davie in loooooooove. I do think though that this book is still best for the connections it has to Kidnapped - whether it be David doing right by the people who helped him before, or the rare and wonderful appearances of Alan Breck. And yet, even in this somewhat strained circumstances, I still liked him - and her, as well.
February 18, 2016
Rereading R. L. Stevenson. It's way fun.
This one is not as good as David Balfour #1 "Kidnapped." It's a fun story, but it's much harder to read if you're not Scottish. Tons of Scots words. It's fun to try to decipher meaning, but so many of the words are actually just real Scots words that I have no knowledge of. Thank goodness for the glossary in the back if one cares that much.
Did enjoy, but the story isn't as compelling as "Kidnapped."
Did LOVE this passage, it's hilarious....
--
CHAPTER XIII—GILLANE SANDS
I did not profit by Alan’s pilotage as he had done by his marchings under General Cope; for I can scarce tell what way we went. It is my excuse that we travelled exceeding fast. Some part we ran, some trotted, and the rest walked at a vengeance of a pace. Twice, while we were at top speed, we ran against country-folk; but though we plumped into the first from round a corner, Alan was as ready as a loaded musket.
“Has ye seen my horse?” he gasped.
“Na, man, I haenae seen nae horse the day,” replied the countryman.
And Alan spared the time to explain to him that we were travelling “ride and tie”; that our charger had escaped, and it was feared he had gone home to Linton. Not only that, but he expended some breath (of which he had not very much left) to curse his own misfortune and my stupidity which was said to be its cause.
“Them that cannae tell the truth,” he observed to myself as we went on again, “should be aye mindful to leave an honest, handy lee behind them. If folk dinnae ken what ye’re doing, Davie, they’re terrible taken up with it; but if they think they ken, they care nae mair for it than what I do for pease porridge.”
--
Other quotes of note:
"My education spoke home to me sharply; I was never brought up on sugar biscuits, but on the hard food of the truth. I knew that he was quite unfit to be a husband who was not prepared to be a father also; and for a boy like me to play the father was a mere derision."
--
"But prayer is not very difficult, and the hitch comes in practice."
This one is not as good as David Balfour #1 "Kidnapped." It's a fun story, but it's much harder to read if you're not Scottish. Tons of Scots words. It's fun to try to decipher meaning, but so many of the words are actually just real Scots words that I have no knowledge of. Thank goodness for the glossary in the back if one cares that much.
Did enjoy, but the story isn't as compelling as "Kidnapped."
Did LOVE this passage, it's hilarious....
--
CHAPTER XIII—GILLANE SANDS
I did not profit by Alan’s pilotage as he had done by his marchings under General Cope; for I can scarce tell what way we went. It is my excuse that we travelled exceeding fast. Some part we ran, some trotted, and the rest walked at a vengeance of a pace. Twice, while we were at top speed, we ran against country-folk; but though we plumped into the first from round a corner, Alan was as ready as a loaded musket.
“Has ye seen my horse?” he gasped.
“Na, man, I haenae seen nae horse the day,” replied the countryman.
And Alan spared the time to explain to him that we were travelling “ride and tie”; that our charger had escaped, and it was feared he had gone home to Linton. Not only that, but he expended some breath (of which he had not very much left) to curse his own misfortune and my stupidity which was said to be its cause.
“Them that cannae tell the truth,” he observed to myself as we went on again, “should be aye mindful to leave an honest, handy lee behind them. If folk dinnae ken what ye’re doing, Davie, they’re terrible taken up with it; but if they think they ken, they care nae mair for it than what I do for pease porridge.”
--
Other quotes of note:
"My education spoke home to me sharply; I was never brought up on sugar biscuits, but on the hard food of the truth. I knew that he was quite unfit to be a husband who was not prepared to be a father also; and for a boy like me to play the father was a mere derision."
--
"But prayer is not very difficult, and the hitch comes in practice."
July 17, 2016
Considering how popular Kidnapped is, and a classic at that, I’m extremely surprised how few people seem to know about and/or have read the sequel!
Kidnapped is one of my favorites due to the Scottishness and the friendship between Davy and Alan Breck Stewart (not to mention the character himself).
But in my mind, I consider Kidnapped and the sequel to be the same story, just chopped in half. David Balfour (or, the title it was published under in England I believe, Catriona, referring to the heroine of the story) picks up directly after Kidnapped ends, like… literally the same day if I remember right.
It deals with Davy’s adventures afterward, including some wrapping up stuff from the first book, Davy meeting a singular young woman and their story, and Alan even returns for a couple more adventures in the book. It’s sometimes odd and I have a feeling while I’m reading it that most of the story goes over my head, likely because it was written so long ago and Stevenson and authors like that were so genius, but I still really enjoy it and consider it Kidnapped: Part 2, myself.
It’s a shame more people haven’t read it because more Davy and Alan is awesome, not to mention it’s neat that Davy finally finds love. I mean, all the movie adaptions like to slip a girl into the Kidnapped story, so why not just read further to find it? ;)
But it’s more epicness and Scottishness and Alan so what is not to love??
(Mostly Alan.)
(Because Alan.)
Kidnapped is one of my favorites due to the Scottishness and the friendship between Davy and Alan Breck Stewart (not to mention the character himself).
But in my mind, I consider Kidnapped and the sequel to be the same story, just chopped in half. David Balfour (or, the title it was published under in England I believe, Catriona, referring to the heroine of the story) picks up directly after Kidnapped ends, like… literally the same day if I remember right.
It deals with Davy’s adventures afterward, including some wrapping up stuff from the first book, Davy meeting a singular young woman and their story, and Alan even returns for a couple more adventures in the book. It’s sometimes odd and I have a feeling while I’m reading it that most of the story goes over my head, likely because it was written so long ago and Stevenson and authors like that were so genius, but I still really enjoy it and consider it Kidnapped: Part 2, myself.
It’s a shame more people haven’t read it because more Davy and Alan is awesome, not to mention it’s neat that Davy finally finds love. I mean, all the movie adaptions like to slip a girl into the Kidnapped story, so why not just read further to find it? ;)
But it’s more epicness and Scottishness and Alan so what is not to love??
(Mostly Alan.)
(Because Alan.)
November 27, 2025
"Kidnapped" is often thought to be the definitive Stevenson novel and it was always going to be an uphill task to write a sequel to the same that would capture the same sense of adventure and camaraderie successfully. "Catriona" succeeds, however, because it remarkably strays away from the template, replacing the adventure with a simmering tension even in the most comfortable of places, and the camaraderie with a winsome spirit of romance and repartee. Featuring one of the most striking heroines of adventure fiction and some of the wittiest dialogue that one wouldn't find in most romantic comedies, this is an assuredly delightful read from cover to cover, with a lot of serious and even rich food for thought crammed in between the layers of fun.
October 19, 2025
I LOVED this book so much! The perfect conclusion to Davy and Alan's adventures in Kidnapped
July 20, 2020
This story picks up immediately where Kidnapped left off. Unfortunately, David and Alan have to separate, so we don't see much of Alan and therefore miss out on a lot of their fun camaraderie. When they are together, the story shines with the first book's luster, so I wish there had been more scenes with them together. But David's story takes its own interesting twists as he gets embroiled in a political scandal and learns how to navigate society, becoming more of a man in the process. We're also introduced to another endearing character: Catriona, the sweet and brave daughter of a morally questionable Highlander.
September 26, 2023
Oh the drama! I say this sarcastically, though not meanly. What a romance story this is! What started as a rather complicated political intrigue, ended as a very emotional, sometimes irrational, always in extremes of joy or anger, love story. So very different from the first installment, ‘Kidnapped,’ that I don’t wonder the boys who loved the first book aren’t very inclined to read this: a lengthy volume of Davie’s enraptured thoughts and swooning over grey-eyed Catriona. Dear me, what a lot of ups and downs! And arguments, and misunderstandings, and passionate emotions! Whew! I was relieved to have done with them both by the end.
Alan figured only very little into this tale, popping up in the first half for a quick adventure, complaining about living in a bale of hay, and (what this book seems to view as chiefly important) to impart how very much he admires Davie’s courage. And he also pops in helpfully at the end to help his poor young friend patch his romance and life back together. (Yes, I agree with you, Alan. Davie is quite blind.)
“ye seem to me to be born blind, and there’s where the deefficulty comes in.”
“And can you no help me?” I asked, “you that are so clever?”
“Ye see, David, I wasnae here,” said he. “I’m like a field officer that has naebody but blind men for scouts and éclaireurs; and what would he ken? ”
And once he’s seen Catriona and observed her himself, and David asks if his friend has any insights on whether Catriona likes him, Alan outbursts:
“Mean? What do I mean! It’s extraordinar, David man,” say he, “that you should be so mortal stupit.”
It is extraordinary, Alan. But then again, I’m not sure I’ve ever read about quite so confusing a girl as Catriona.
But oh my! That closing! It about burst my heart when it was revealed Davie was telling the entire story to their two children: Barbara and Alan!
“And now, Miss Barbara Balfour (to set the ladies first), and Mr. Alan Balfour younger of Shaws, here is the story brought fairly to an end.”
It was too, too adorable.
The old fashioned honor of David was very humorous and very like to all of Henty’s main characters. I found myself laughing over passages like:
“I have a respect for you, David, mingled with awe,” says he, smiling” (Where political men in power express their respect to our young MC’s morals)
Lastly, I will be putting a few various quotes that amused or struck me, for your enjoyment:
“You are either very simple, or extremely the reverse, and I see that I must deal with you more confidentially,” says he. ”
“He wagged his bald eyebrows at me. “You are pleased to make experiments in the ironical, I think,” said he. ”
“It was not for my sake - but I need not be telling that to you, that cannot look at me without laughter.”
“I do laugh at you a good deal, and a good deal more than is quite civil,” said she”
“I was like Christian in the slough - the more I tried to clamber out upon the side, the deeper I became involved; ”
“What we spoke was usually of ourselves or of each other, so that if anyone had been at so much pains as overhear us, he must have supposed us the most egotistical persons in the world.”
“There is not anything more bitter than to lose a fancied friend.”
****And on a final, though more unpleasant tack, I will be noting this one had more language than the previous book****
Alan figured only very little into this tale, popping up in the first half for a quick adventure, complaining about living in a bale of hay, and (what this book seems to view as chiefly important) to impart how very much he admires Davie’s courage. And he also pops in helpfully at the end to help his poor young friend patch his romance and life back together. (Yes, I agree with you, Alan. Davie is quite blind.)
“ye seem to me to be born blind, and there’s where the deefficulty comes in.”
“And can you no help me?” I asked, “you that are so clever?”
“Ye see, David, I wasnae here,” said he. “I’m like a field officer that has naebody but blind men for scouts and éclaireurs; and what would he ken? ”
And once he’s seen Catriona and observed her himself, and David asks if his friend has any insights on whether Catriona likes him, Alan outbursts:
“Mean? What do I mean! It’s extraordinar, David man,” say he, “that you should be so mortal stupit.”
It is extraordinary, Alan. But then again, I’m not sure I’ve ever read about quite so confusing a girl as Catriona.
But oh my! That closing! It about burst my heart when it was revealed Davie was telling the entire story to their two children: Barbara and Alan!
“And now, Miss Barbara Balfour (to set the ladies first), and Mr. Alan Balfour younger of Shaws, here is the story brought fairly to an end.”
It was too, too adorable.
The old fashioned honor of David was very humorous and very like to all of Henty’s main characters. I found myself laughing over passages like:
“I have a respect for you, David, mingled with awe,” says he, smiling” (Where political men in power express their respect to our young MC’s morals)
Lastly, I will be putting a few various quotes that amused or struck me, for your enjoyment:
“You are either very simple, or extremely the reverse, and I see that I must deal with you more confidentially,” says he. ”
“He wagged his bald eyebrows at me. “You are pleased to make experiments in the ironical, I think,” said he. ”
“It was not for my sake - but I need not be telling that to you, that cannot look at me without laughter.”
“I do laugh at you a good deal, and a good deal more than is quite civil,” said she”
“I was like Christian in the slough - the more I tried to clamber out upon the side, the deeper I became involved; ”
“What we spoke was usually of ourselves or of each other, so that if anyone had been at so much pains as overhear us, he must have supposed us the most egotistical persons in the world.”
“There is not anything more bitter than to lose a fancied friend.”
****And on a final, though more unpleasant tack, I will be noting this one had more language than the previous book****
August 13, 2023
O, Davie man, dinna be a pompous gowk!
I'd class this as an acquired pleasure. I struggled reading only with my eyes and only with my ears; both audio and visual -- with many pauses for the glossary of Scottish words -- worked well.
More of David Balfour, but not much of the inimitable Alan Breck Stewart.
Frederick Davidson's narration was top shelf. I was surprised he chose to pronounce our heroine's name CAT tree OH nah, when the Scottish pronunciation is Katrina.
I'm on a "RLS in August" tear. Next up: The Ebb-Tide.
I'd class this as an acquired pleasure. I struggled reading only with my eyes and only with my ears; both audio and visual -- with many pauses for the glossary of Scottish words -- worked well.
More of David Balfour, but not much of the inimitable Alan Breck Stewart.
Frederick Davidson's narration was top shelf. I was surprised he chose to pronounce our heroine's name CAT tree OH nah, when the Scottish pronunciation is Katrina.
I'm on a "RLS in August" tear. Next up: The Ebb-Tide.
February 19, 2024
Sadly I did not like this much at all, after reading Kidnapped which I loved! Alan Breck doesn't feature very much in this, but the few scenes he does are the best ones by a mile. I also think that David himself pales in comparison as the protagonist.
December 15, 2017
A fairly underwhelming continuation for David Balfour. Stevenson even states on the first page "It is the fate of sequels to disappoint...", so I can't say that I wasn't warned.
This book lacked so much. Similarly to its predecessor, Kidnapped, I understand that Catriona is now well over a century old, and hence the styles of writing and story telling are different (not to mention culture, etc.). And yet, whilst this isn't an adventure book like the last, it's turned into something far worse. Some awfully attempted love story, which I just did not care to try to understand. The actions and relations of the characters to one another, I found, just did not make sense - even when taking different eras and romanticism into account.
At times I was loathe to turn the page and continue on, yet I pushed through and got the final unsurprising result which I was expecting.
This book lacked so much. Similarly to its predecessor, Kidnapped, I understand that Catriona is now well over a century old, and hence the styles of writing and story telling are different (not to mention culture, etc.). And yet, whilst this isn't an adventure book like the last, it's turned into something far worse. Some awfully attempted love story, which I just did not care to try to understand. The actions and relations of the characters to one another, I found, just did not make sense - even when taking different eras and romanticism into account.
At times I was loathe to turn the page and continue on, yet I pushed through and got the final unsurprising result which I was expecting.
May 18, 2011
I read this book because I couldn't leave Davie of Kidnapped dumped by the linen company with no explanation and no solution to many of his problems. It seemed as if Kidnapped had abruptly stopped in the middle of a story. I am probably the only person in the world who likes this book better than Kidnapped. I like stories nicely drawn up to an ending; I think I like love stories better than adventure; and I just plain enjoyed the story. I must admit that I didn't understand some of the Scottish dialect and that some of the legal aspects of the first of this book left me a little at sea. At any rate, here is a person to endorse this book. However, do not read this until you have read Kidnapped first.
July 29, 2021
“My name is not spoken,” she replied, with a great deal of haughtiness. “More than a hundred years it has not gone upon men’s tongues, save for a blink. I am nameless, like the Folk of Peace. Catriona Drummond is the one I use.”
Now indeed I knew where I was standing. In all broad Scotland there was but the one name proscribed, and that was the name of the Macgregors. Yet so far from fleeing this undesirable acquaintancy, I plunged the deeper in.
June 11, 2023
Highland romance set outside the Highlands. RLS shows the international flow of radicals in early modern Europe.
March 6, 2021
Robert Louis Stevenson's "Catriona" is the direct continuation of "Kidnapped" though published 7 years later. What is David to do about the Appin murder? David knows that the men accused are innocent and the story tells of the political hold and corruption that tries to keep his testimony from reaching the public. Reading this story reminds me especially of the present times, when politics is not looking at the truth but manipulating to what the powers to be is the best for the general good, it has been happening since the beginning of time.
💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢SPOILER ALERT💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢
I did not read this edition but from a Delphi Collection of his works which included the brief synopsis.
"This novel is a sequel to Kidnapped (1886) and was first published in 1893. It is sometimes referred to by its alternative title: David Balfour. The novel begins where Kidnapped left off, tying up some unresolved plotlines in the original novel and continuing David’s story, including his quest for his rightful inheritance and his love affair with Catriona MacGregor, a relation of the famous Rob Roy. The first part of the story concerns David’s attempts to secure justice for James Stewart, after he is charged as an accessory in the Appin Murder (the events of which play an important part in the first novel). The second part of the novel is related to David’s relationship with Catriona and their domestic life in Holland. "
"For the life of man upon this world of ours is a funny business. They talk of the angels weeping; but I think they must more often be holding their sides as they look on; and there was one thing I determined to do when I began this long story, and that was to tell out everything as it befell. "
I was so upset when David after all his attempts to save James from being hanged were all for not. I was thinking that Miss Grant might end up with David, especially after Catriona left with her father, so I was pleasantly surprised when they married at the end.
David travels to see Prestongrange who is the advocate and has the main control of the Appin murder, David thinks it is clear cut that if he testifies he can save James and Alan Stewart from hanging. Alan is waiting for passage back to France with David's help and the secret is kept but after Alan leaves, James More's men take David prisoner on a rock island and is unable to escape until it is too late. Still hoping David comes after the verdict is given but he still tries to save James with a pardon request, it was denied and Prestongrange as well as others were part of this cover up and tell false stories to win their political desires. while visiting the advocate, he is introduced to the Grant's daughters, this is when a friendship takes place and Miss Grant helps David and Catriona by fostering them, since both are in love yet neither really are quite sure the other loving them. I was glad David was able to see the corrupt ways for his eyes are opened. Catriona, father leaves her unattended as David who loves her must keep her safe, living like brother and sister until James More arrives. Many misunderstandings during their stay in Holland, which finally end after it becomes clear that James More's criminal background has David telling his love to Catriona, and marrying her. Alan makes his appearance near the end and is almost sent back to Scotland, for James More looks to profit on his capture but this is thwarted by a sword fight which is stopped by Catriona.
💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢SPOILER ALERT💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢💢
I did not read this edition but from a Delphi Collection of his works which included the brief synopsis.
"This novel is a sequel to Kidnapped (1886) and was first published in 1893. It is sometimes referred to by its alternative title: David Balfour. The novel begins where Kidnapped left off, tying up some unresolved plotlines in the original novel and continuing David’s story, including his quest for his rightful inheritance and his love affair with Catriona MacGregor, a relation of the famous Rob Roy. The first part of the story concerns David’s attempts to secure justice for James Stewart, after he is charged as an accessory in the Appin Murder (the events of which play an important part in the first novel). The second part of the novel is related to David’s relationship with Catriona and their domestic life in Holland. "
"For the life of man upon this world of ours is a funny business. They talk of the angels weeping; but I think they must more often be holding their sides as they look on; and there was one thing I determined to do when I began this long story, and that was to tell out everything as it befell. "
I was so upset when David after all his attempts to save James from being hanged were all for not. I was thinking that Miss Grant might end up with David, especially after Catriona left with her father, so I was pleasantly surprised when they married at the end.
David travels to see Prestongrange who is the advocate and has the main control of the Appin murder, David thinks it is clear cut that if he testifies he can save James and Alan Stewart from hanging. Alan is waiting for passage back to France with David's help and the secret is kept but after Alan leaves, James More's men take David prisoner on a rock island and is unable to escape until it is too late. Still hoping David comes after the verdict is given but he still tries to save James with a pardon request, it was denied and Prestongrange as well as others were part of this cover up and tell false stories to win their political desires. while visiting the advocate, he is introduced to the Grant's daughters, this is when a friendship takes place and Miss Grant helps David and Catriona by fostering them, since both are in love yet neither really are quite sure the other loving them. I was glad David was able to see the corrupt ways for his eyes are opened. Catriona, father leaves her unattended as David who loves her must keep her safe, living like brother and sister until James More arrives. Many misunderstandings during their stay in Holland, which finally end after it becomes clear that James More's criminal background has David telling his love to Catriona, and marrying her. Alan makes his appearance near the end and is almost sent back to Scotland, for James More looks to profit on his capture but this is thwarted by a sword fight which is stopped by Catriona.
August 13, 2025
I tried to read this several years ago and couldn’t get through it, mainly because I couldn’t understand the Scottish vernacular enough to know what was going on. It was much easier this time around, and the first 16-17 chapters were fantastic 👌👌👌. But after that it was terribly drawn out and tedious, not to mention a bit sappy. It was supposed to be an adventure story, but nothing exciting occurred between chapters 18 and 29 (there were 30 chapters total). Thus it gets three stars.
July 23, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book. It felt very little like Kidnapped. There isn't nearly the adventure. Yet, David is still a very lovable person who wants to do what is right no matter what situation he finds himself in.
There was also quite a bit of language in this story
This audio version from Librivox wasn't well done, but it was free.
There was also quite a bit of language in this story
This audio version from Librivox wasn't well done, but it was free.
March 30, 2023
Not enough excitement to be good pulp, not interesting enough to be good literature.
August 18, 2023
From perhaps the greatest author of all time (and I truly mean that)…we get an agonizingly long, absolutely atrocious rambling virtual monologue of thoughts, and thoughts about thoughts, and verbalized feelings, and thoughts about the feelings, and feelings about the thoughts…and ALMOST NOTHING EVER HAPPENS!! It’s really bad.
July 1, 2021
David Balfour hat noch nicht alle Abenteuer bestanden!
Der Mord, dessen Zeuge er unfreiwillig wurde, droht ihm zum Verhängnis zu werden. Davie will nicht nur beweisen, dass er selbst kein Komplize des Täters war, sondern er muss auch erreichen, dass nicht ein Unschuldiger als Mörder an den Galgen kommt.
Doch damit ist er einflussreichen und höhergestellten Personen im Weg, die ganz andere Interessen haben und ihn unbedingt loswerden wollen.
Als David dann auch noch dem schönen und eigensinnigen Mädchen Catriona begegnet und er sich Hals über Kopf in sie verliebt, scheint sein junges Leben noch verworrener zu werden, denn die Liebe ist wohl das größte Abenteuer überhaupt!
Der Mord, dessen Zeuge er unfreiwillig wurde, droht ihm zum Verhängnis zu werden. Davie will nicht nur beweisen, dass er selbst kein Komplize des Täters war, sondern er muss auch erreichen, dass nicht ein Unschuldiger als Mörder an den Galgen kommt.
Doch damit ist er einflussreichen und höhergestellten Personen im Weg, die ganz andere Interessen haben und ihn unbedingt loswerden wollen.
Als David dann auch noch dem schönen und eigensinnigen Mädchen Catriona begegnet und er sich Hals über Kopf in sie verliebt, scheint sein junges Leben noch verworrener zu werden, denn die Liebe ist wohl das größte Abenteuer überhaupt!
June 13, 2017
It would seem that Stevenson was badgered to write a sequel to Kidnapped and finally gave in. It is told, as Kidnapped was, in the first person and David really does go on and on about what he should do or say and how he feels and why. Apparently he has never spoken to girls before and has no idea as to how their minds work, but I think that is partly because Stevenson doesn't really understand them. Catriona comes across as a very Victorian miss with a chip on her shoulder and Miss Barbara Grant, Prestongrange's daughter is very strange and flighty. It is difficult to write a novel about recent times and 1750 was only a hundred years before Stevenson was writing so he had to be careful about what he had historical people do and say. The Appin trial was clear in everyone's minds so David couldn't be allowed to upset the event with his testimony. I'm not sure why he connected David to the McGregors, a wild and nasty bunch by all accounts, but I suppose that added a sort of frisson to the story.
Aside from the romance, which is really what the book is about, a sort of "How I Met Your Mother" narration, we find out what happened to Alan Breck, to James of the Glens, and to David as far as the estate of Shaws goes. What we don't find out is what happened to David as far as his living
went. He was studying law in Leydon but it doesn't sound as if he finished any course there so what did he become? He wasn't the sort to just live off his principal, so what did he do? Study in Scotland? Did he become an advocate or what? Stevenson just drops the narration as if he was just tired of the whole thing, which he may have been.
I enjoyed it alright, although there were times when Catriona just infuriated me and David too.
One very personal note.This copy is from Scribner's Illustrated Classics series, the series from which I read Robin Hood and The Story of Roland and several others. They're beautiful books with unforgettable illustrations, especially the Wyeth ones, full of romance and uplifting aspirations. It was like revisiting my childhood to read this and brought back memories of my father reading Robin Hood to us.
Aside from the romance, which is really what the book is about, a sort of "How I Met Your Mother" narration, we find out what happened to Alan Breck, to James of the Glens, and to David as far as the estate of Shaws goes. What we don't find out is what happened to David as far as his living
went. He was studying law in Leydon but it doesn't sound as if he finished any course there so what did he become? He wasn't the sort to just live off his principal, so what did he do? Study in Scotland? Did he become an advocate or what? Stevenson just drops the narration as if he was just tired of the whole thing, which he may have been.
I enjoyed it alright, although there were times when Catriona just infuriated me and David too.
One very personal note.This copy is from Scribner's Illustrated Classics series, the series from which I read Robin Hood and The Story of Roland and several others. They're beautiful books with unforgettable illustrations, especially the Wyeth ones, full of romance and uplifting aspirations. It was like revisiting my childhood to read this and brought back memories of my father reading Robin Hood to us.
June 12, 2021
Direct sequel to Kidnapped, starting mere days after the last page of that book. It's in two sections, with the first being an adventure/court drama. David again involves himself in Scottish politics and is naturally once again in danger because of it. His naivety is placed on display as he is outmaneuvered again and again by sly political persons. Even involving him once again being kidnapped. The intrigue of the court drama is very interesting, but much of this part of the book is near indecipherable due to the liberal usage of the Scottish accent, even more than was present in the first book.
The second part is a love story. David meets a young Scottish lass and is immediately besmitten. What follows is months of teenage drama as the two young fools refuse to tell each other of their true feelings and argue much of the time. Everything is made the more problematic by the mores of the times, as it is entirely inappropriate for David to spend any time at all alone with the girl lest her reputation be irrevocably harmed. The return of Alan Breck saves the day as he is by far the best character in either book. At least this part of the book is mostly in English so there's that.
Not a bad book, but it's easy to see why Kidnapped is a classic and this book is only known to the truest fans of Robert Louis Stevenson.
The second part is a love story. David meets a young Scottish lass and is immediately besmitten. What follows is months of teenage drama as the two young fools refuse to tell each other of their true feelings and argue much of the time. Everything is made the more problematic by the mores of the times, as it is entirely inappropriate for David to spend any time at all alone with the girl lest her reputation be irrevocably harmed. The return of Alan Breck saves the day as he is by far the best character in either book. At least this part of the book is mostly in English so there's that.
Not a bad book, but it's easy to see why Kidnapped is a classic and this book is only known to the truest fans of Robert Louis Stevenson.
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