WHITEBEAM (reviewed on October 15, 2012)
A young girl of mysterious but significant parentage joins Scotland’s medieval rebellion against the English in this lively YA historical novel.
At the dawn of the 14th century, fetching teen aristocrat Isobel MacDuff and dashing nobleman Rob—destined to become Scottish national hero Robert the Bruce—deposit their love child for safekeeping on the remote Isle of Arran. Little Pippa’s true identity must be kept secret, even from herself, lest she run afoul of ruthless enemies, including Isobel’s sadistic estranged husband and England’s King Edward, who would love to get his gauntlets on the rebel Bruce’s kin. Unaware of these intrigues, Pippa grows up a redheaded spitfire doted on by a foster mother, an awkward but stouthearted village lad named Tom and a parade of handsome lairds. The author ensconces Pippa in captivating, slightly magical medieval Scotland, where figures from Celtic legend—including a blind centenarian soothsayer who knows the secret of Pippa’s heritage—live and mingle. But as Pippa approaches adolescence, the grim realities of war intrude on her idyll, bringing terror and grief; she duly revolts by smuggling silver for the Scottish cause, spying on the English army and strategizing about how to rescue poor Isobel from the cage where she’s been hung for two years while peasants pelt her with manure. Loosely basing the story on real events, del Mara adroitly mines a rich historical setting for colorful material, which she enhances with rousing action scenes and a pinch of fairy-tale glamour. She crafts all this into a coming-of-age yarn with genuine substance and pathos. As Pippa gets entangled in her family’s struggle against the English, she’s appalled by the violence and misery her father sets in motion, but she also starts to understand the harsh necessity that drives him. She’s a feisty, appealing heroine, and her quest to discover her identity and capture her destiny makes for an absorbing read.
An entertaining period adventure for tweens.
Bysadincanadaon September 24, 2014
Format: Paperback
I loved this historical novel! Very easily read in one or two sittings. A page turner and an easy read, this extraordinary tale will appeal to youth and adult alike.
This storyline masterfully blends historical events and true-life characters with a colourfully expressive imagination. Characters and storyline threads are perfectly introduced, laid down and developed. Plot and action are interwoven with enchanting and serene narratives and diversions.
I am eagerly awaiting a sequel or series that fosters character and storyline evolution. I am certain that author del Mara will not disappoint with successive publications.
Therasia C.
ByLafaya Englehardton August 6, 2014
Format: Paperback
This is fantastic storytelling firmly grounded in historical fact. Del Mara has a keen sense of pacing, constantly driving the plot forward, yet not without forays into charming and idyllic description. As an adult reader, I was delighted by the way del Mara brings a bit of medieval history brilliantly to life through vivid characters and action, with humor sprinkled throughout--and it's heartening to see such a spunky heroine! Sure to be a fun and yet sophisticated read for kids, to stretch their intellects and open new avenues of imagination.
By Chuck D on January 28, 2013
Format: Paperback
Totally absorbing story. Spun with perfection. Written with incredible vividness - I felt as if I were watching a movie.
I didn't think I was a fan of historical fiction. But my hands refused to release the book until it was devoured.
It's rare to be so into a book and characters that - when I'm finished - I return to page 1. I may repeat this until the next one hits the presses.
Bravo!
By L. Bell on January 18, 2013
Format: Paperback
Whitebeam by K. M. del Mara is an interesting fast-paced piece of historical fiction set in 14th century Scotland. The story is about the conflict between Robert the Bruce and the English. This book should appeal to adults and teens----possibly more to young women since the main character is a girl, Pippa, who is connected to Robert the Bruce. There are, however, many colourful male characters. It is a medieval coming of age story as Pippa actively searches for her true parentage while increasingly participating in the war effort against the English. The book gives you an idea of what late medieval life would be like for soldiers and women living near the conflict.
By lars jaforrnen on November 28, 2012
Format: Paperback Verified Purchase
Here is a book that is totally engrossing on so many levels. The imagery is vivid. The messages on every page ring with a poignant bliss or a timeless pathos. The characters are so well drawn, we see both ourselves and our alter egos in each of them. Ms del Mara has researched- yes. But it appears that she has also lived the lives she has written about and has survived the experiences of hundreds of years in order to tell us what has been is what is now and forever more shall be. Exquisite. Illuminating. Remarkable. From an author worth reading. And a brilliant storyteller worth following. Bravo.
Good!!
By Ida Melloncamp on October 2, 2012
Format: Kindle Edition
Whitebeam is a really delightful book. The author clearly did her research to bring the book to life. The descriptions are wonderful and the Scottish history is really fascinating. Even the animals had good parts! As the story goes on the action builds along with the suspense. I read almost the whole book in one sitting. I couldn't stop!
Almost any age would enjoy Whitebeam. It would easily be read but kids as well as adults. My son is reading it now and enjoying it. I believe this is Ms del Mara's first book. I can't wait to read more of her work!
