Today is the cover reveal day for the next book in my Scottish historical fantasy trilogy, Urram – Rekindled Hope! This is the second book in the trilogy, which is set in an alternative historical imagining of the Scottish Dark Ages (roughly 800 A.D.). If you enjoyed Disney’s BRAVE, Robert Louis Stevenson’s KIDNAPPED, BRAVEHEART, and the writing styles of Rosemary Sutcliff, Maggie Stiefvater, and J.R.R. Tolkien (so I’ve been told), you may consider checking out this series! Perfect for fans of medieval fantasy, atmospheric settings, themes of hope, courage, and friendship, and resonant, realistic characters.
You can find out more about the first book in the trilogy, Dìlseachd – A Stolen Crown, here.
Full blurb: (may contain spoilers for the ending of Book One)
A CRY FOR VALOUR
Five years since the last blood heir to the Scottish throne was imprisoned by Danish invaders, death her only prospect.
Two since the Lowlanders rescued their princess while failing to free their country, waging a winter’s war.
One since the princess went into hiding and the Scots sent envoys to Cymru, hoping to secure aid against their common enemies.
Her country in ruins, her fighting men few, Fiona McCurragh nonetheless finds courage as the Lowlanders return from Cymru.
As winter thaws into spring, the Danes renew their hunt for the Scottish princess, nearly discovering her and the Scots’ newfound Cymreig allies. The Scots, forced to play their hand, retaliate by launching their third war against their invaders. Yet Fiona McCurragh and the elder son of Chieftain McCladden soon realise that not all battles are won with men and spears; some are of the heart.
In an unforeseen act of treachery, Fiona is captured and held prisoner at Caerloch Castle, awaiting torture and execution. Meanwhile, the Lowlanders and the Cymry find themselves faced by Lady Nuith’s innumerable hosts and beyond the reach of the silent Highlanders. Torn between surrender or death, honouring their oaths may be the Scots’ final defence.
Urram – Rekindled Hope is set to release May 7th, 2024! You can add it to Goodreads, preorder a copy on Amazon (paperback and hardcover editions coming shortly), or even preorder a signed copy! You can also catch up with the adventure in Book One.
What Celtic or medieval fantasy books are your favorite? Let me know in the comments!
The Dancing Bardess 