A Borders Ballad by Wendi Davidson immerses readers in the rugged and turbulent world of the Anglo-Scottish Borders during the early sixteenth century. Following the catastrophic Battle of Flodden Field in 1513, the novel paints a vivid picture of a lawless era comparable to the American Wild West, where feuds and alliances intertwined in a complex dance of betrayal and revenge.
The story revolves around Richard, a Scottish nobleman sent to Northumberland as a peace hostage, and Alina, who journeys to the court of the young Henry VIII in London. Their burgeoning romance is marred by intrigue and betrayal, making their eventual reunion both poignant and fraught with challenges. Davidson’s narrative is rich with action — tournaments, kidnappings, and duels — while also offering insightful glimpses into Tudor life and the harsh realities of Border existence.
Davidson, a former botany graduate from the University of St Andrews and a botanical painter, developed a deep fascination with the Scottish Borders’ history while working as a tourism officer. Her background in the literary and cultural scene, including her role in launching The Edinburgh Book Festival and The Edinburgh Folk Festival, infuses her writing with a unique blend of historical accuracy and engaging storytelling.
A Borders Ballad offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on a period often depicted in darker tones.
A Borders Ballad is especially crafted for descendants of Scottish Border and Northumbrian immigrants in the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as anyone fascinated by the early sixteenth-century history and culture of England and Scotland.
Fans of Nigel Tranter’s historical fiction will find much to enjoy in this novel.
For those in Australia, the book is available through major retailers such as Amazon AU, Booktopia, Fishpond, The Nile, James Bennett, ALS, and Peter Pal.
Anglo&Celtic 