Whitebeam

Debut author del Mara’s account of the First War of Scottish Independence follows Pippa, a fictional love child between two real-life figures: Robert de Bruce, leader of the Scottish forces, and Isobel MacDuff, who crowned Robert king. In 1297, Isobel gives birth to Pippa in secret and leaves her to be raised by allies on the Isle of Arran. As Pippa grows, she has no knowledge of her true parentage, but she is visited by a host of famous personages, including Rob. Though isolated, Pippa learns about the ongoing war against the English and the horrors inflicted by both sides—del Mara doesn’t shy from the realities of medieval warfare. When Pippa is 10, a tragedy forces her from the safety of her home, and she joins Rob as his army marches across Scotland. It’s fascinating to see the war through Pippa’s eyes, though Pippa’s reactions to important historical events can feel muted. Despite a heavy buildup to Pippa’s own appearance on the battlefield, the ending glosses over the aftermath. Ages 12–up. (BookLife)