Review of The Douglas Bastard

Praise GodWord · Post by **Praise GodWord** » 05 May 2022, 13:58

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Douglas Bastard" by J R Tomlin.]

4 out of 4 stars

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When all hope is lost, even for an orphan that has been written off as nothing, a determination would push him to become the best. The Douglas Bastard: A Historical Novel of Scotland (The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 4) by J R Tomlin is about a boy named Archibald Douglas. When he was three, his family left Scotland for France, and he returned six years later. And he was called a bastard. The story began when his mother died from a long-time sickness in France. He was hurt but determined to be a knight like his father. He starts as a "page" with the help of King David. Then, he goes to Scotland with his older cousin, Sir William. This is just the beginning of a long journey for him. He learned a lot and learned them fast. Does he eventually fulfill his dream of being a knight? What challenges does he encounter on the way? The story also has a betrayal side, but we see Archie's side.

I found several positive aspects of the story. But the first thing I admired was Archibald, the story's hero. He has a unique and inspiring personality. Archie is bold, confident, and ambitious. I can go on and on about his good qualities from when his mother died at the age of 9 to when he went with his uncle, Sir William, to Scotland. He was determined to take on his father's legacy to the very end, disregarding what people thought of him being a lad that needed protection or his history of being a "Douglas bastard." And at this young age, even though his determination led him into disobedience several times, I still found his character inspiring.

Another aspect of the story I find intriguing is the historical part. From the dating (as in the time of the year things happened) to the war, both the ones Archie witnessed and the tales he heard, we see this story from Archie's eyes. I must also note that the stories throughout the book were narrated in great detail. This made me feel like I was a part of the story, as I could visualize most scenarios. However, I could not relate to some of the places and words. It was enlightening for me.

It had been a great read as I flipped through the pages. I appreciated how words were used. Throughout the book, I noticed a rich use of figures of speech such as simile, sarcasm, and metaphor. The general outlook of the book, from the setting to plot and characterization, was remarkable. It was professionally edited, as I found only two significant errors in the book. For me, I like the book in its entirety.

Without a doubt, The Douglas Bastard: A Historical Novel of Scotland (The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 4) gets 4 out of 4 stars from me, as I have little or no reservations about the book. I don't have any negative issues with the book. I am still lost in amazement at most of the scenes in the book. I loved every minute of reading it, even though I was a bit lost initially. I recommend this book to readers who love reading adventure and thriller books. I also recommend this to younger readers, whether orphans or with parents. Archie's story would inspire and encourage them to be the best regardless of their circumstances.

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The Douglas Bastard
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Blessing E · Post by **Blessing E** » 07 May 2022, 03:13

Nice. I appreciate well written reviews. This is because it gives me an idea of how to structure my reviews subsequently. Thanks teaching me what a good review is. And congratulations for having your review published.

Uwe Neufeld · Post by **Uwe Neufeld** » 07 May 2022, 08:47

It's not quiet clear why he was called a bastard. But it's sure that he was in in a disadvantaged position and overcame all obstacles. Seems an interesting read.

beutiful_pen · Post by **beutiful_pen** » 07 May 2022, 18:46

Great review. The young boy is sure determined to become a knight.

Gideon Olomofe · Post by **Gideon Olomofe** » 08 May 2022, 00:26

What a story that teaches life's lessons. Thrillers and adventures are my favorites.

Christopherio · Post by **Christopherio** » 16 May 2022, 01:35

There's nothing more encouraging like someone who is determined to make a name for themselves after being put down as worthless. I would like to see where his determination gets him. Thanks for the review.

ellimctreph · Post by **ellimctreph** » 17 May 2022, 04:26

I love a good underdog story.

Azubike Richard · Post by **Azubike Richard** » 23 Jun 2022, 02:16

I love the determination of the book to become what he wants to.

Leen282 · Post by **Leen282** » 30 Apr 2025, 05:51

Was Archibald a real bastard or was he called a bastard? Did his father also go to France and returned with him? Or was it only the uncle? What was the betrayal about? After reading the review, I have many questions and look forward to reading the book.

Post by **Amarachi Stephanie Ejike** » 30 Apr 2025, 06:34

How heartbreaking it is to be known or called by a derogatory label. Even more lonely and sad would it be to be a castoff. "The Douglas Bastard;" (The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 4) by J R Tomlin follows the life of Archibald Douglas, his struggles and his determination to continue his father's legacy despite his peculiar circumstances. I love historical novels, and what I read about Archie's life from the review is enough temptation to read the book personally.

Post by **Rebecca De Figueiredo** » 30 Apr 2025, 06:46

This looks like a good novel to get stuck into. Life seemed so tough for young Archie and within the backdrop of historical Scotland the reader will enjoy his story. The book starts off well… I can hear their Scottish accents.Nice review, thank you.

James Hanna · Post by **Wamboi Susan** » 30 Apr 2025, 07:03

Enjoyed the review,it was concise yet captivating. Archibald's journey is both inspiring and deeply emotive. His determination has truly piqued my interest,and i am eager to follow his story through the book.

Chi Chiu Michael Mak · Post by **Chi Chiu Michael Mak** » 30 Apr 2025, 07:26

Finally a tale about knights that has nothing to do with fantasy! The places are real, and Archie's ascent to knighthood is a boy's dream come true. Everyone likes a determined hero! Can't wait to finish this BotD.

Post by **Seetha E** » 30 Apr 2025, 07:27

The Douglas Bastard by J R Tomlin follows the life of Archibald Douglas, who is orphaned young, but he does not let the challenges dim his determination. Sounds like an interesting historical fiction book. Thank you for an amazing review!

Love Ukaegbu · Post by **Love Ukaegbu** » 30 Apr 2025, 08:11

At this point, I'm rooting for Douglas in "The Douglas Bastard" (The Black Douglas Trilogy Book 4) by J.R. Tomlin. I actually hope that he fulfilled his dream of being a knight. The book has an interesting premise, and congratulations on the book of the day.