“Guns of the Lion” – A Review

When my sisters and I finished “Guns of Thunder”, it was not long before we began the second book in Douglas Bond’s Faith and Freedom Trilogy, “Guns of the Lion”.

Douglas Bond is a contemporary author living in Washington State. He lives with his wife and six children. He is a teacher of English and history and his books are the product of extensive research. Besides the Faith and Freedom Series, he is also the author of the Crown and Covenant Series which includes, “Duncan’s War“, “King’s Arrow” and “Rebel’s Keep”.

“Guns of the Lion” was published by P & R Publishing in 2008. The book contains 42 chapters and 255 pages. Besides the story, the book also contains a timeline in the back, that marks the significant events in history at this time. “Guns of the Lion” is part two of the Faith and Freedom Trilogy. Part one is entitled “Guns of Thunder”. Book Three has not yet been published..

“Guns of the Lion” begins with our hero from the first book, Ian M’Kethe, on his way to college with his Indian friend, Watookoog. Grandfather Malcolm gives Ian a letter received from Ian’s cousin, Gavin and tells him to read it on the way … Thus begins the adventure! The majority of the book is the narrative Gavin has sent to his relations. In the letter, we travel back to Scotland and England in a time of war and rebellion. The Glorious Revolution has passed in Britain, some years since. King George the I reigns where the house of Stuart previously sat. An ambitious descendent of the royal family – known as Bonnie Prince Charlie – wants to regain the throne of his fathers. So, gathering around him as many of the Scottish men as he can, Prince Charlie prepares to war against King George. During this time, Gavin, is conscripted against his will, to serve under King George. Caught in a war, he does not thoroughly agree with, Gavin does not know which side to truly support – especially when spying for King George, he is again conscripted against his will … To serve under Bonnie Prince Charlie! To betray one or the other would mean certain death – not only to himself but to those dear to him. Be prepared! This book ends with a cliff hanger!

My sisters and I really enjoyed this book. (Even though it was thoroughly difficult to read 99% of the book – narration included – with a Scottish accent!) Mr. Bond is a talented author and really knows how to captivate the attention of the reader. One of my favorite characters (besides Gavin) was Laurie, a young Englishman who becomes as a brother to Gavin. His wit and apparent cheerfulness, are amusing and refreshing in the more intense portions of the book.

I would highly recommend this book!

To the KING be all the glory!