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Crown and Covenant #1
Duncan's War
Young Duncan M'Kethe finds himself caught in the web of Sir James Turner, the former Covenanter turned military leader of the persecutors. Duncan is torn by his hatred of Turner's dragoons, who have treated his friends cruelly, and his father's instructions to love them. He must be true to Jesus Christ while attempting to rescue his father from enemy hands.
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2002
About the author
Douglas Bond
45 books206 followersDouglas Bond, author of more than thirty books--several now in Dutch, Portuguese, Romanian, and Korean--is father of six, and grandfather of eleven--and counting--is Director for the Oxford Creative Writing Master Class and the Carolina Creative Writing Master Class, two-time Grace Award book finalist, adjunct instructor in Church history, recent advisory member to the national committee for Reformed University Fellowship, award-winning teacher, speaker at conferences, and leader of Church history tours in Europe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 5, 2009
When I got breast cancer my good friend sent me this book. Odd for one with breast cancer? No, you see it was her son who illustrated the book and I was his third grade teacher. He wrote the inscription and it made me so proud.
May 4, 2023
After putting this book off for over 20 years (ever since it was published actually), I finally decided I’d just read it so I would know for sure if I liked it or not.
Did I liked it? Some parts I enjoyed. I liked the Scottish accents and the setting, but I don’t enjoy fiction books during this time period. I can handle biographies better.
I didn’t enjoy the cruelties of one church group against another. And I found it rather too graphic for my liking. Not really gory but still graphic for sensitive readers or ones who easily picture things.
I don’t plan to read the other two books in the series.
Did I liked it? Some parts I enjoyed. I liked the Scottish accents and the setting, but I don’t enjoy fiction books during this time period. I can handle biographies better.
I didn’t enjoy the cruelties of one church group against another. And I found it rather too graphic for my liking. Not really gory but still graphic for sensitive readers or ones who easily picture things.
I don’t plan to read the other two books in the series.
December 1, 2017
While not exactly a page-turner, this book was full of sweet reminders of the worthiness of our God: worthy to be trusted, loved, and even to give one's life for. It also plants interest in this time period.
I'm desirous to learn more!
Probably better for children older than 10.
I'm desirous to learn more!
Probably better for children older than 10.
September 1, 2008
We had a lot of fun reading this book together! I highly recommend it!
January 27, 2024
Aye. One of, if not the most instrumental book/series in my childhood. Still just as good.
P.S. -Read some Douglas Bond
P.S. -Read some Douglas Bond
March 28, 2010
I really enjoyed this book, as well as the others inthis series. It's really interesting and thought prevoking how the Scottish Covenators endured all the persecution. It challenged me to be ready for persecution, which comes more often than you think.
Douglas Bond did a wonderful job bringing back his readers to this very important time in Christian history. When I was reading this I felt like I was there in Scotland with Duncan and his family. It was amazing!
Douglas Bond did a wonderful job bringing back his readers to this very important time in Christian history. When I was reading this I felt like I was there in Scotland with Duncan and his family. It was amazing!
August 24, 2015
Not a bad book series. Historical fiction isn't my favorite form of writing, but still it's pretty good.
January 24, 2021
It’s been a minute since I’ve read any historical fiction, and I am glad to be back. This is one of the best Christian historical fiction series I have come across so far. The pain and plight of the Covenanters is conveyed exceptionally well by the author, which in turn inspires a very real sympathy and heartfelt admiration for these persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. They faced horror upon unjust horror, for what? For their love and devotion to the One who gave up everything to save them, they also were willing to give up everything for Him. These people’s experiences and actions are incredible, and the author does them justice.
This story is a very real depiction of what a Covenanter family might have gone through during this time period. The simple lifestyle, the persecution, the emotions, the debates and differing opinions, the speech, all make you feel like you know what happened because you watched it happen. The history is so rich, and the personal convictions are so well expressed.
The characters are fantastic, and I can’t wait to see what happens with them in the next two books! Additionally, this is one of my favorite endings I’ve read in a while.
Now for the not-so-fun part. No book is flawless, and this one is not an exception. There are a couple slow parts, and a bit of an info dump at the beginning, but I found these imperfections to be, overall, of small consequence in the course of the story. I did not shelve this with kids’ books because some of the descriptions of historical events/actions in this story do not withhold details. Dismemberments, hangings, and torture, are all a part of it because they happened, historically. Rape is only referred to as a woman being “ill-used.”
This story is a very real depiction of what a Covenanter family might have gone through during this time period. The simple lifestyle, the persecution, the emotions, the debates and differing opinions, the speech, all make you feel like you know what happened because you watched it happen. The history is so rich, and the personal convictions are so well expressed.
The characters are fantastic, and I can’t wait to see what happens with them in the next two books! Additionally, this is one of my favorite endings I’ve read in a while.
Now for the not-so-fun part. No book is flawless, and this one is not an exception. There are a couple slow parts, and a bit of an info dump at the beginning, but I found these imperfections to be, overall, of small consequence in the course of the story. I did not shelve this with kids’ books because some of the descriptions of historical events/actions in this story do not withhold details. Dismemberments, hangings, and torture, are all a part of it because they happened, historically. Rape is only referred to as a woman being “ill-used.”
August 29, 2023
An enjoyable book on a rarely discussed era of history. When one reads Scottish history, especially historical fiction, typically stories go to the English invasions and subsequent establishment of the Kingdom of Scotland under Robert the Bruce. Not to mention everyone knows about William Wallace. Or they turn to the Jacobite risings after this time period and the stories of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Not too many historical fictions are written about the Covenanters especially from a sympathetic viewpoint. Bond writes from such a viewpoint while not demonizing the Episcopalians that are against the Covenanters. The book starts off slow with the protagonist living daily life in Southwest Scotland close to the Pentland Rising which marched on Edinburgh. On a good note the story is quite thrilling and well suited to young men in their early teens. I found the story quite captivating. The reason for three stars is the prose and dialogue. At times the dialogue is as choppy as Dumas (for instance, the amount of times "aye" comprises an entire sentence is far too much), and at times it is almost mechanistic since an actual person wouldn't say that. The characters are fine with good character growth in the protagonist especially. I'd recommend the book, even if it isn't a classic of Christian literature by any means, for younger boys in particular along with those interested in light reading regarding the period of the Covenanter Wars of Lowland Scotland.
October 29, 2020
I liked it-
This was a good book, not amazing. I really loved hearing about the courageous and true Covenanter who fought for Freedom and God!!
There were times when it was really hard to focus because of the writing style, but it always picked up a few pages or a chapter later.
I would recommend this book to anyone studying this point in history and just wishing to learn more about the Scottish Covenanters!
This was a good book, not amazing. I really loved hearing about the courageous and true Covenanter who fought for Freedom and God!!
There were times when it was really hard to focus because of the writing style, but it always picked up a few pages or a chapter later.
I would recommend this book to anyone studying this point in history and just wishing to learn more about the Scottish Covenanters!
July 9, 2019
I read this book with my 11 year old son, and he enjoyed it. He had tried to read it a few years ago, but the start is rather slow and the Scottish language in it can be confusing at first. He enjoyed it more after learning some about this time period in school. It was encouraging to read how Duncan and his family continued to trust the Lord in spite of great hardship.
July 11, 2019
My first Douglas Bond book. But have already started on my second. Read this one to my son. It is very good historical fiction for boys/teens with a deliberate Gospel bent. And a great story, following a Scottish Covenenter family suffering persecution from the English for worshiping Christ rather than the Church of England.
August 26, 2023
An excellent work of historical fiction for a YA audience, bringing to life the history of the Scottish Covenanters. I appreciated it especially because I read it on the heels of my trip to Scotland. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series!
October 28, 2023
Given what I’ve heard about the author, I guess I was hoping for a little more eloquence. Regardless, this is a solid choice for young men—history, action, faith. I especially love all the Scottish men singing all the time!
February 8, 2018
An amazing combination of history, faith, and action.
July 15, 2020
Been a while since I read this series, but I enjoyed it :)
December 14, 2021
My mom read this whole book series to me and my sibling when we where young, Love them so much they are some of the best books you could ever find, I do need to reread them thought like ASP
May 16, 2023
Powerful Christian message. Not the best writing I have ever read; he was still clearly finding his groove, but the characters were great and the storyline held my attention well.
August 23, 2017
kinda boring but it was an alright book
January 2, 2016
Set in the wild and beautiful highlands of Scotland, this is a tale of devotion, courage, and sacrifice of the Scottish Covenanters. The fictional M'Kethe family is the centerpiece of the story. They and their friends must decide how to respond to the English king's and the local authorities' hostility toward the Covenanters, who just want to worship God in peace, not the king's way.
They cannot submit to the king, that much is certain. But when the troops come for them, what can they do? What must they do? Join the uprising in protection of their families, or turn the other cheek? Fight or forgive? This book shows their struggles and comes to a commendable conclusion. The Covenanters fight in defense, not offense. They show mercy to their enemies, but nevertheless are stalwart in battle against the well trained dragons.
History is woven into this book, with real Covenanters shining through the pages in example to us of true devotion to King Jesus. And it doesn't lack action, either, including clandestine activities, searches through green hills, pitched battles, rescues in the night, near escapes, and lots of running. An exciting, inspiring book.
They cannot submit to the king, that much is certain. But when the troops come for them, what can they do? What must they do? Join the uprising in protection of their families, or turn the other cheek? Fight or forgive? This book shows their struggles and comes to a commendable conclusion. The Covenanters fight in defense, not offense. They show mercy to their enemies, but nevertheless are stalwart in battle against the well trained dragons.
History is woven into this book, with real Covenanters shining through the pages in example to us of true devotion to King Jesus. And it doesn't lack action, either, including clandestine activities, searches through green hills, pitched battles, rescues in the night, near escapes, and lots of running. An exciting, inspiring book.
December 27, 2014
As a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a historical fiction of the Scottish Covenanters in the 17th century, with Duncan as the main character, a young man who wrestles through the thoughts of his heart in regards to the English oppressors of the Kirk(church), whether he hates them more, or loves Christ more. It is here we get a glimpse into the heart of the issue, as well as get some mentions of the likes of Samuel Rutherford! His Letters are mentioned quite a few times in here.
This book was very edifying to read, had adventure, heart, and honesty in it. I loved that it's theme was about glorifying God and enjoying Him; the point was to defend God's truth above all else. The Psalms were sung, the word was spoken of, and Christ as King was supreme. It did not glory in war, though the young character desired to do so, but shed light on the horrors of it, and yet the virtue in defending a just cause. If you want an edifying read for a young person, this book is a wonderful one to put in their hands.
This book was very edifying to read, had adventure, heart, and honesty in it. I loved that it's theme was about glorifying God and enjoying Him; the point was to defend God's truth above all else. The Psalms were sung, the word was spoken of, and Christ as King was supreme. It did not glory in war, though the young character desired to do so, but shed light on the horrors of it, and yet the virtue in defending a just cause. If you want an edifying read for a young person, this book is a wonderful one to put in their hands.
November 12, 2011
Pretty good. Historical fiction about Scottish uprising in 1666. I know little about this history. Previewing for my 10 and 8 year olds: the violence gets a little graphic. Maybe wait until 12?
There is a strong Scottish accent throughout, even with words like "ken" (know) and "dunnae" (do not) all over the place. Helped set the tone, but a little overdone.
The main theme was how to deal with oppression: not to respond with hate and violence, but with patience and love. Trusting God, but also preparing with earthly means. Seemed to capture what little I know of the Scottish mentality, when the English forced Anglicanism on them at this time. I especially liked the part where he learns to appreciate kneeling for prayer, and his Anglican friend takes the point that Jesus is the King of King Charles. Each could see the right and good in the opposing party, though they were at war.
Very good read for 10-12 year old boys.
There is a strong Scottish accent throughout, even with words like "ken" (know) and "dunnae" (do not) all over the place. Helped set the tone, but a little overdone.
The main theme was how to deal with oppression: not to respond with hate and violence, but with patience and love. Trusting God, but also preparing with earthly means. Seemed to capture what little I know of the Scottish mentality, when the English forced Anglicanism on them at this time. I especially liked the part where he learns to appreciate kneeling for prayer, and his Anglican friend takes the point that Jesus is the King of King Charles. Each could see the right and good in the opposing party, though they were at war.
Very good read for 10-12 year old boys.
November 28, 2007
This book is about a boy (Duncan) and his family who live in Scotland in 1666. They are Covananters and are under persucution by the Royalist's. They live in South-western Scotland near the town Dalry. The main characters are fiction but the historical figures (such as; leading soldiers, preachers, Royalist's army commanders...etc.) were real people in history.
I liked this book because it tells of how Duncan is struggling with loving his enemies and his father is teaching him that God's will always rules over all others.
And even though they are required to respect the King of England they will follow King Jesus in everything.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes history esp. Christian history. I have this book if anyone wants to borrow it. God bless!
I liked this book because it tells of how Duncan is struggling with loving his enemies and his father is teaching him that God's will always rules over all others.
And even though they are required to respect the King of England they will follow King Jesus in everything.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes history esp. Christian history. I have this book if anyone wants to borrow it. God bless!
December 30, 2012
This book was AMAZING!! :D It was so much more than just a good fiction read, with great encouragement for your faith in God. I also was so inspired by the godly attitude towards war and the lessons there for both young men and women. :) I would recommend this book to all!
The only thing I had to mention was that because it is a book about war and persecution, there were a few parts towards the middle to the end that some young or sensitive minds might find disturbing (hangings, and other forms of torture, and bloody battlefields). Though the author did a pretty good job of not going into any unnecessary details.
To read more of my review on this book, see here: http://younghomemakers.blogspot.com/2...
The only thing I had to mention was that because it is a book about war and persecution, there were a few parts towards the middle to the end that some young or sensitive minds might find disturbing (hangings, and other forms of torture, and bloody battlefields). Though the author did a pretty good job of not going into any unnecessary details.
To read more of my review on this book, see here: http://younghomemakers.blogspot.com/2...
August 13, 2016
I had read the "Mr. Pipe's Series," from Mr. Bond, so I was excited to read the "Crown and Covenant Series" as well; I enjoyed it immensely, I came away from reading this trilogy with a deeper understanding and gratefulness of the freedom of religion that we enjoy today.
This book series is very intense, so I wouldn't recommend it for very young children, as it does contain some very gruesome scenes. So just beware.
Douglas Bond is one of my favorite authors; I love how he weaves in history throughout the adventures of Duncan.
This book series is very intense, so I wouldn't recommend it for very young children, as it does contain some very gruesome scenes. So just beware.
Douglas Bond is one of my favorite authors; I love how he weaves in history throughout the adventures of Duncan.
January 15, 2016
I read this book for the first time several years ago and I enjoy it every time. This book first sparked my interest in the trials of the Scottish Covenanters leading me to books such as In Freedom's Cause by G. A. Henty and Hunted and Harried by R. M. Ballantyne.
The story is exciting and it relays the struggles and the faith of the covenants.
Note: Because of the battle and some description of tortures it may not be good for young children.
The story is exciting and it relays the struggles and the faith of the covenants.
Note: Because of the battle and some description of tortures it may not be good for young children.
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June 5, 2008I pre-read the entire Crown & Covenant series for my sons' unit study on Scotland. This series along with Henty's book of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce was a wonderful combination for our study on Scotland. I topped it off with short biographies of some of the biographies of the great Scottish pastors of that era.
October 26, 2013
My first Douglas Bond book. But have already started on my second. Read this one to my son. It is very good historical fiction for boys/teens with a deliberate Gospel bent. And a great story, following a Scottish Covenenter family suffering persecution from the English for worshiping Christ rather than the Church of England.
March 20, 2017
Duncan M'Kethe loves his family and his faith and is willing, even eager, to defend them from the vicious talons of King Charles II. Yet his father insists that the Scriptures instruct us to love our enemies. How does he balance this with defending his fellow Covenanters?
Read the rest of my review here: http://gloriakluth.blogspot.com/2017/...
Read the rest of my review here: http://gloriakluth.blogspot.com/2017/...
May 4, 2012
I loved this book, and most of my kids did too. It moved a little bit slowly in parts, but overall, a great book and an excellent way to learn about history through an engaging and God-honoring story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews