Review: The Scottish Boy by Alex de Campi
by Alex de Campi
published by Unbound in May 2020
The story starts in 1333 and I wasn’t sure what to expect from a novel that takes place that long ago. But the style is simple and straightforward. (I’ve read medieval-era stories by other authors who tried to mimic antiquated language and it was extremely distracting.) I found the story compelling from the very beginning.
The MC Harry is a pretty likable guy from the start. He is 19 and fresh off missing the battle of Halidon Hill due to the death of his mother. He has been itching to go to war to prove himself and avenge his father’s death at the battle of Bannockburn. Harry learns very quickly what war is really like when he’s taken on a raid and watches his fellow knights strike down unarmed citizens, struggling to understand the pointless brutality and cruelty. Being a knight isn’t at all what he thought it would be. Where’s the chivalry? The justice? He dislikes the way their young prisoner is being treated and he defies orders to leave him alone so he can help him. The book doesn’t shy away from the brutality of medieval society and warfare and, in doing so, really highlights Harry’s integrity, empathy, and strong moral compass.
The plot revolves around the true identity of the title character, Iain. The truth of his heritage becomes obvious and as the plot thickens, the angst increases. The romantic relationship between Harry and Iain grows and complicates everything. It feels like every time they take one step forward, they immediately take 2 steps back. I was biting my nails wondering what was going to happen next.
Much of the book’s plot focuses on the use of religion, politics, and the class system at that time to oppress others, achieve status, and further personal agendas. Even though it takes place 700 years ago, those parts of the story seem very relevant and applicable to today.
I’ve never read another novel like this but it was definitely giving me Outlander vibes and reminded me a little of Pillars of the Earth as well. It feels like a novelization of actual non-fiction history books I’ve read. I’m a huge fan of historians like Dan Jones and Marc Morris who specialize in medieval British history and this book brings all that to life in the story of Harry and Iain. It had knights, tournaments, and jousting, a compelling plot, a beautiful love story, and the most amazing characters. It’s 500 pages long but never once felt slow or like anything in it was unnecessary. I loved every page! It was exciting, surprising, satisfying, sweet, spicy - omg is it spicy - funnier than it has any right to be, and definitely one of the best books I’ve read this year. I absolutely recommend picking it up! You will be hooked.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars
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