Born to Trouble (The Clan Donald Saga Book 4)

By: Regan Walker
Publisher: Regan Walker Publishing
Publication Date: February 27, 2025
Reviewed by: Lily Andrews
Review Date: January 28, 2025

Regan Walker's Born to Trouble is an illuminating work of historical fiction that focuses on “a man born to much trouble all his lifetime." It also intends to provide a historical narrative of a power struggle that resulted in grave betrayal at a period of highly layered internal conflict and self-interest.

Following his father's death, Alexander is inaugurated as Chief of Clan Donald and Lord of the Isles. He is of a magnificent built, upright stance, golden hair, and piercing blue eyes and is married to Catherine, with whom he has four boys. It is in the fifteenth century, and he and his family have been awaiting the return of King James to Scotland after being imprisoned in England during the rule of two of its monarchs for eighteen years. With a glorious coronation imminent, Alexander believes King James must be wary of Duke Murdoch's long-standing alliances, as well as his army of Albany supporters fighting in France under the command of his younger brother, John Stewart, Earl of Buchan.

In reaction to growing criticism of his leadership, King James moves quickly to retake his ancestral kingdom and detain Duke Murdoch and his son. He summons the main Highland chiefs to a parliament in Inverness later on, but they are assaulted and arrested as accusations of treachery reverberate across the region. Alexander and his mother, who are among the invitees, are imprisoned for weeks, and two of his Highland nobles are put to death without a trial. Alexander, unsure of what might have led King James to be so harsh and unscrupulous, must decide whether to accept the promise of power and rank in exchange for his devotion or stay behind bars.

Everything changes, however, when he discovers, following a careful choice, that some of his family were executed at the king's command. Everyone around him is consumed by anger and a desire for vengeance, and he quickly realizes that he might have to lead the lordship and the men of Ross into battle, which would entail walking on a path steeped in blood.

This narrative deals with deep issues of oppression, self-interest, betrayal, and revenge. Set in a historically relevant era and a highly charged political atmosphere, it builds the bully-underdog dynamic right away. A well-chosen figure, the protagonist's popularity and brilliance earn him broad support among his people until he is compelled to make judgments that appear out of proportion to his age. His deeds initiate a sequence of events that imply a readiness to give up oneself for the good of others, a concept that is ultimately tested.

By thoroughly examining these endeavors, the author skillfully depicts early Scottish aristocratic society. She ably discusses the political climate and key historical occurrences by examining the king's, lords', and other political intrigues and disputes. Examining what happens to the protagonist when he mopes in the tumultuous and romantic circles is one of his novel’s standout features.

Quill says: Born to Trouble is a masterfully written historical fiction work with detailed illustrations and an insightful narrative that profoundly gives the story a worthy conclusion. Not your typical one-sit read, it strikes a mix between fiction and history to keep the reader interested. This is a flawless fictional exposition with a lasting aura for anyone interested in ancient Scottish history.

For more information about Born to Trouble, please visit the author's website at: www.reganwalkerauthor.com