Duking Days: Rebellion

Anita Davison
Grace Publishing (2007)
ISBN  9780973950274
Reviewed by Debra Gaynor for Reader Views (6/07)


“Duking Days: Rebellion” is set on the backdrop of a fascinating period of history.  It is 1685 and popularity is high for James Scott -- the illegitimate son of King Charles II.  His goal was to capture the British Crown from his Uncle James II.  A battle ensued -- one of the bloodiest in history, and one in which the Woulfe family participated.

Helena Woulfe kept a journal despite her mother’s disapproval.  The journal told the story of how her family coped and survived the war, how they suffered betrayal, embarrassment, hardship and grief.

Helena’s father Jonathan, her brother Aaron, and her Uncle Edmund, went off to war fighting for Jammie, James Scott, the illegitimate son of King Charles II, who some thought to be heir to the throne.  King James II had declared all supporters of Jammie as traitors. 

The steward Tobias made her uneasy.  He had been with them a year, yet no one seemed to know where he was from.  He carried himself with a presence that seemed above his station.  She was always aware of his presence in a room without his saying anything.  Helena wondered who this strong man with arrogant ways really was. 

Helena knew that her family would always be known as traitors.  The king claimed all the property that belonged to the rebels that fought against him.  Helena knew the only answer was for her to go to the battlefield and find Aaron and her father, if they were still alive.  Nathan Bayle insisted upon accompanying her and kept her safe. Helena and Henry became wards of a kindly neighbor and eventually go to London where they hope people will accept them and they can go on with their lives.

“Duking Days: Rebellion” by Anita Davison paints a picture of war, grief, romance, and love.  History comes alive in the story of Helena Woulfe, a young woman of privilege until her father takes up the cause of James Scott. She shows great courage when she seeks to find her father and brother.  Even when King James seeks revenge and takes all the family owns Helena shows tremendous courage.  Anita Davison is a talented writer.  The characters are very well-developed.  The plot flows smoothly.  Fans of historical fiction will enjoy “Duking Days: Rebellion.”

Make comment on weblog