(Quest for the Three Kingdoms)
By Cryssa Bazos
One for sorrow.
Áine fears the omen that a single magpie brings, but she could never imagine the danger that is lurking just around the corner.
It was a normal day when they came, the English marauders, led by Captain John Garret. Hidden from sight, Áine watched them slaughter almost everyone on the Mulrianes’ estate. Mairead O’Coneill was the only other person who made it out alive, and unfortunately, the English enemy planned to sell her into indentured servitude. Left without anyone and nowhere to turn, Áine must find a way to make the most of the situation, but this changes when Niall O’Coneill arrives and discovers the brutal murder of his family.
Despite her assurance that she can look after herself, Niall refuses to leave Áine behind. He will keep her safe, this he vows along with a vow to avenge his family. But nothing in life is assured, especially during a time of war, and with tensions running high and the fear that there is a traitor in the Irish camp, Niall must use his wits to save himself and Áine, the woman he is falling in love with.
Cryssa Bazos delivers a true masterpiece with Rebel’s Knot, skilfully blending themes of courage, deceit, integrity, violence, romance, and love.
This novel is set in Ireland during the War of the Three Kingdoms. For two years, Ireland had been engaged in a conflict with the English army, deployed by Parliament to eradicate Catholics and Royalist supporters of Charles Stuart, the dethroned monarch. The Irish brigades were exhausted by constant skirmishes and their daily struggle to survive. Struggling to defend their country from oppression, these brave individuals have been left with no choice but to live on the fringes of society, seeking shelter in the wilderness and utilizing their deep familiarity with the local terrain to outmanoeuvre the English forces. They were in a dire situation, counting on supplies from the Duke of Lorraine and his twenty ships.
The English ruled the occupied territory with apparent disregard for morality, subjecting the common people to brutal treatment, particularly if they suspected any collaboration with the “enemy”. The concept of “to the victors go the spoils” takes on new meaning in this narrative. In addition, Bazos highlights the internal struggle experienced by certain high-ranking officers who, despite fighting for freedom, grappled with differing interpretations of what freedom truly entails. With the understanding that their cause is doomed, some individuals shift their focus to introspection. Unlike the average soldier who risks only their life, these individuals have much more at stake - their land, power, and position.
Niall O’Coneill is a captivating character who alternates between unwavering courage, and a blinding burning desire for revenge. He is a seasoned soldier and a proud patriot. Although he harbours unwavering hatred towards the English invaders, he is also completely worn out from witnessing the unnecessary suffering and bloodshed endured by his people. Yet, Niall’s identity extends beyond that of a hardened soldier; he is a son, nephew, and brother.
Even though he had witnessed the English Army’s brutalities multiple times, nothing could have readied Niall for the distressing revelation at his uncle’s estate. Mounted on spikes are a pair of bloodied heads, one of which was his cousin, Diarmuid. His uncle’s entire family was brutally murdered, leaving behind a terrified dairy maid named Áine. His sister, who was staying with their uncle has been sold into indentured servitude abroad. The hatred he feels towards the English is absolute, so it is in stark contrast when he begins to fall in love with Áine. At first, he feels compelled to ensure Áine’s well-being, but soon this shifts into a more profound sentiment. The representation of Áine and Niall’s relationship serves as a poignant illustration of the stark contrast between the violence of war and their resolute pursuit of freedom.
Four years ago Áine Callaghan had fled her hometown of Cork and found refuge at the Mulrianes’ estate, but her past continues to haunt her. She is fortunate to have escaped the fate of being harmed alongside the Mulrianes’ family and servants. Now, she finds herself alone again, but she has faced solitude in the past and come out alive. Why would this be any different? Meeting Niall alters the trajectory of her life indefinitely and for the better.
Áine’s character exudes an ethereal quality at times. She is very superstitious and believes in the Faerie Folk, but her beliefs and the way she acts singles her out for persecution and false allegations. However, she has a natural talent for storytelling, particularly when it comes to recounting the tale of Fionn mac Cumhaill, although, most of the time, her audience consists of the cows she is milking! Both Cúchulainn and Fionn mac Cumhaill defended their people, and their heroic legends offer her solace and comprehension. Niall is a soldier and he has to leave her to fight, and despite her growing feelings for him, she knows he is duty-bound. Although the true horrors of Áine’s past aren’t revealed until the end of the book, her inherent cautiousness is understandable by what she has endured in the present. The enthralling narrative follows her increasing infatuation with Niall and his gentle efforts to woo her. He is a good man; this she knows and even if there is no future for them, she is determined to make memories.
The romantic scenes near the river provide a moment of respite for the reader and the characters. The representation of the river becomes highly symbolic. The river’s flow symbolizes motion, the story’s advancement, and embodies a feeling of liberty and tranquillity. The superstitious implication of a lone magpie is also not lost on the reader.
The depiction of the blossoming romance between the two protagonists in this story is wonderfully done, showcasing the theme of love amidst war. The story is filled with intense battles and skirmishes, which is expected given the time period and events it portrays. The author’s dedication to providing a realistic setting is evident through the historical details in this story.
Rebel’s Knot by Cryssa Bazos is a novel that will deeply touch your heart. It is a story that will remain with you, long after you have turned the final page.
Rebel's Knot
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Another lovely review from Team Yarde! Your book sounds wonderful, Cryssa.
ReplyDeleteAnd I might add, I read this book back in 2021 and I loved it, I still do not have a wolfhound!
ReplyDeleteI also did not drop it in the bath! LOL!
ReplyDeleteIn the bath? Oh, Maddie what did you get up to in 2021 with Cryssa's books? Actually, don't tell me. I don't want to know.
DeleteYou dropped a book in the bath?!
DeleteMaddie, are you one of those people who fold the page down instead of a bookmark?
DeleteI am clumsy not a monster! I borrowed Traitor’s Knot from a friend to read and I dropped it in the bath! We are no longer friends (just kidding)!!
DeleteLOL!
DeleteCongratulations on your lovely review. I have this book on my to-read list since it went on tour. I must get around to reading it.
ReplyDeleteAll of the books in this series are amazing, and they all standalone. I highly recommend all of Cryssa's books.
DeleteAnother book to add to my ever growing to-read list.
ReplyDeleteThose lists get longer every day! I think you will really enjoy Cryssa's books, she is a fabulous storyteller.
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