Book Review #63: The Betrayal of Maggie Blair by Elizabeth Laird

The Betrayal of Maggie Blair

by Elizabeth Laird

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Ages: 13 and up

I reviewed this book through NetGalley.

Product Description:

In seventeenth-century Scotland, saying the wrong thing can lead to banishment—or worse. Accused of being a witch, sixteen-year-old Maggie Blair is sentenced to be hanged. She escapes, but instead of finding shelter with her principled, patriotic uncle, she brings disaster to his door.

Betrayed by one of her own accusers, Maggie must try to save her uncle and his family from the king’s men, even if she has to risk her own life in the process.

My Review:

I had very high hopes for this book. It has a beautiful cover and is set in one of my favorite time periods to read about, not to mention it takes place in Scotland, but frankly it was a little disappointing. It took me a long time to actually get into the story and care about any of the characters but, when I did, it was enjoyable enough. I liked it, but I had hoped for more.

I liked Maggie. She is an interesting and human character who grows up so gradually you almost don't notice it, transforming from a shy, frightened girl into a bold young woman. It was easy to sympathize with her fears and frustrations.

None of the minor characters really caught my attention. They were all just a little too predictable and solid, never changing or doing something totally unexpected. I had hoped for something from Ritchie Blair or Musketeer Sharpus, but they fell flat. I could always tell what the villainess was going to do long before she did it.

This book was well-written with a bittersweet story, but I found it to be a little bland. I am not sorry to have read it, but it will never be a favorite of mine.

Content Ratings: Profanity, Sexuality and Violence

1 (mild) through 10 (extreme).

Profanity:

There wasn't any swearing, but there were enough insults that I give it a 1.10.

Sexuality:

There are some references and innuendos in this book, so I rate it a 3.10.

Violence:

This book gets a 5.10 for multiple murders and torture. I would have given it a higher rating, but you never actually see anything.

                                    Lieder Madchen