When author Regan Walker reached out to see if I’d like to review her new inspirational novel, she pretty much had me at “Scotland, A.D. 1072.” If you’ve been hanging out on my blog for long, you know that I deeply value non-fiction work, but it’s fiction that captures my heart and soul. And well-written fiction that weaves in historical fact as well? My favorite way to grab a history lesson — especially when it pertains to the history of my Christian faith. 

You too? If so — and if you also enjoy a tale imbued with a generous dash of romance — you’ll want to learn more about this layered novel. 

The Refuge by Regan Walker

The book: (from the publisher) Scotland 1072. The Norman Conqueror robbed Steinar of Talisand of his noble father and his lands, forcing him to seek refuge in Scotland while still recovering from a devastating wound. At the royal court, Steinar becomes scribe to the unlettered King of Scots while secretly regaining his skill with a sword.

The first time Steinar glimpses the flame-haired maiden, Catrìona of the Vale of Leven, he is drawn to her spirited beauty. She does not fit among the ladies who have come to serve the devout queen. Not pious, not obedient and not given to stitchery, the firebrand flies a falcon!

Catrìona has come to Malcolm’s court wounded in spirit from the vicious attack on her home by Northmen who slayed her parents and her people. But that is not all she will suffer. The king has promised her to one of his favored warriors, but she has given her heart to a lowly scribe.

When all is lost, what hope is there for love? Can a broken heart be mended? Can a damaged soul be healed?

The author: Regan Walker is an award-winning, #1 bestselling author of Regency, Georgian and Medieval romances. She has six times been featured on USA TODAY’s HEA blog and four times nominated for the prestigious RONE award (her novel, The Red Wolf’s Prize, won Best Historical Novel for 2015 in the medieval category; To Tame the Wind is a finalist in 2016). Regan writes historically authentic novels with real historical figures along with her fictional characters. Her readers experience history, adventure and love.

You can see the trailers for her novels on her website and contact her there. Regan loves to hear from her readers.

Connect: Author website | Historical Romance Review Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Genre: Fiction/Christian/Historical romance

Maturity rating: PG

[Tweet “For histfic fans, an inspiration novel set in medieval Scotland #TheRefuge @RegansReview”]

Reflection: Most readers will agree that the best of fiction not only introduces you to another world, but reveals something worth knowing in the process — about humanity, another time or place, or all of the above. Such is the gift of novels like Regan Walker’s The Refuge, a story that boldly intertwines adventure, spirituality, and romance against the backdrop of history.

From its first pages, I felt myself drawn into a fascinating era I’d previously known little about. While I appreciated the wealth of historical detail — obviously the result of in-depth research — I probably enjoyed even more seeing the transformation of Catrìona’s character. Through this spirited protagonist, we see that the company we keep really does matter. It can either drag us down…or pull us up.

In era and scope, The Refuge reminded me very much of Heather Day Gilbert’s Vikings of the New World series {most recently reviewed here}, so if you’ve enjoyed those, I recommend this one to you as well.

Fans of inspiration histfic won’t want to miss Regan Walker’s masterful depiction of this romantic, bygone world.

Thanks to the author for providing me a copy free of charge. All opinions are mine.

After words: Who do you know on your Christmas shopping list who would appreciate a copy of Regan’s novel? FYI, all profits from sales of The Refuge go to the Christian Alliance for Orphans.