The Thirsty Sword: A Story of the Norse Invasion of Scotland (1262-1263)

The narrative follows a young nobleman of Bute and those close to him as shifting loyalties, clan rivalries, and supernatural omens converge on the western islands during a Norse invasion. Episodes move between intimate scenes — a courtship, local superstitions, personal vows of revenge — and large-scale action including raids, sieges, scouting and pitched battles. Recurring motifs are honor, vengeance, and fate; characters face moral choices, betrayals, and the rigours of war as they contest island lordship. The book alternates vivid adventure set pieces with courtroom-like assemblies and sea-borne expeditions that drive the story to a decisive clash.