The Book
Galloway legend and landscapes inspires Scottish author’s newest historical fiction
A Raven Rising by Lawrie Johnston
The year is 1307. A stranger arrives at a remote cottage in the Galloway hills which belongs to the ‘Widow of Craigencallie’ and her three sons. The stranger sets the brothers a challenge which will change their lives forever. Scorned by his older brothers William and Ian, Thomas Murdoch, a young shepherd, rises to the challenge, heartened by his dream to serve King Robert Bruce.
He joins Bruce’s army, who are victorious at the Battle of Glentrool, but this is followed by personal heartbreak, which leads him to a new path at Whithorn Priory, where he trains as a novice. However, his tranquil life is disturbed by the arrival of Ian, who bears grim news of William. Despite their differences, they begin a journey of revenge which leads to the Battle of Bannockburn.
But will Thomas be able to manoeuvre his way through the politics of fourteenth-century Scotland to achieve his dreams? Or will he have to decide where his loyalties lie?
A tale of ambition, loyalty, rivalry and treachery.
About the author
Lawrie Johnston is an author of Scottish Historical Fiction. He is a history graduate of Stirling University and taught history in Scottish schools for over thirty years. He is interested in the history of Galloway where he lived for many years. His first novel, ‘Who Served Well’ was published by Troubador in 2022.
Why this book
Lawrie explains: “I have always been interested in Galloway, a unique part of Scotland, with a very rich history. I was asked to lead an historical walk about the Battle of Glentrool as part of the Newton Stewart Walking Festival. I came across a fascinating local legend about the ‘Widow of Craigencallie and her three sons who encountered King Robert Bruce in his hour of need. The legend was the inspiration for ‘A Raven Rising’.”
What we thought: This is a medievil story of ambition, loyalty, rivalry and treachery, and moments of humour, all set against the backdrop of Robert The Bruce's quest to capture the Throne of Scotland from the English. It is a compelling adventure novel that the takes the reader into the heart of Scotlands landscape. Natalie Key for Female First
A Raven Rising by Lawrie Johnston is released 28/04/2026 ISBN: 9781806341986 Price: £12.99
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