This was always going to be five stars. Anything with Queen Macbeth is an honor to read and this one was fantastic. All the female rage in me just bloody ADORED this book

3.5 ⭐
I enjoyed this retelling of Gruoch and Macbeth. Since it has been many years, I probably could have used a little more information to recall some of the story. The author did give some background, which I found to be very helpful, but as I reader I could have benefited from a little more. I found this to be very well written, the pace and length were perfect, and I liked reading about Gruoch from a more positive perspective. I enjoyed this one!

I liked this book. I really liked it. I rated it 4 stars because I think this book needed more. I think it lacks something in it. I don't know quite what It is... but neverthless I recommend everyone to read this.

An alternative telling of the relationship between Gruoch and Macbeth. It’s an interesting concept, but some knowledge of the era and its clans is recommended, though the author does give a brief overview in her note at the beginning of the book.

I liked it and as always with McDermid the writing was first class.

Short and to the point, a story to ponder on.

Thanks for the Glossary, it was definitely useful!

Thank you NetGalley and Grove Atlantic.

Wow Val what a great novel. Historical novel with strong female characters. Great world building it felt like you were there in the scenario with the characters. I really enjoyed this book, looking forward to others by this author. Thank you to #netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

As far as retellings, or based on stories, this one isn't bad? But in a way it relies too much on a knowledge of Macbeth rather than letting the story also live on it's own. The pacing was either very fast or very slow.

Well written but I feel like there’s something I’m missing. I’m not that familiar with Macbeth so for me the story never gets starts and it doesn’t really give me any answers. I prefer the first half and then the ending feels a little rushed. I assume some more familiarities with the Scottish play might make this better. For me the story never gets off its feet.