Swift and the Harrier

The Swift and the Harrier is a historical fiction novel set in Dorset, 1642, during the bloody civil war between the King and Parliament. Jayne Swift, a physician from a Royalist family, offers her services to both sides, witnessing the brutality of war and the devastation it wreaks. Her recurring companion is William Harrier, a man she should despise, but his past is a mystery, and his future uncertain. The novel is a sweeping tale of adventure, loss, sacrifice, and love, with a unique and unforgettable heroine at its heart.

Format: Hardback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Atlantic Books

In the tumultuous year of 1642, England found itself embroiled in a bloody civil war, pitting the King against Parliament. This conflict tore families and communities apart, as people aligned themselves with different allegiances. Among the few who chose to remain neutral was Jayne Swift, a physician from Dorset, hailing from a Royalist family. Despite her upbringing, Jayne was driven by a deep sense of compassion and a desire to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the war.

Determined to serve both sides, Jayne offered her medical expertise to the King's army and the Parliamentarians alike. She traveled tirelessly through the war-torn countryside, tending to the sick and wounded, regardless of their political affiliations. Through her work, Jayne witnessed the brutalities of war and the devastating impact it had on innocent lives.

However, Jayne's journey was not without its challenges. She was accompanied by a man named William Harrier, a mysterious figure who embraced the civil war as a means to an end. Jayne knew little about him, except for his name, and she despised him for his involvement in the conflict. Yet, as she spent more time with him, she began to see beyond his outward appearance and uncover the complexities of his character.

The Swift and the Harrier is a captivating tale of adventure, loss, sacrifice, and love. At its heart, Jayne Swift is a unique and unforgettable heroine. Her journey through the war-ravaged land is filled with trials and tribulations, as she navigates the treacherous waters of political allegiance and personal convictions. Through her experiences, Jayne learns the true meaning of courage, compassion, and sacrifice, and emerges as a hero in her own right.

The book also delves into the broader historical context of the civil war, exploring the political, social, and cultural forces that shaped the events of the time. It sheds light on the complex relationships between the King, Parliament, and the people, and the struggles that they faced in their quest for power and control.

In conclusion, The Swift and the Harrier is a masterful work of historical fiction that transports readers to the tumultuous era of the English Civil War. Through the character of Jayne Swift, the book explores the themes of compassion, sacrifice, and heroism, and offers a poignant reflection on the human cost of war. It is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, and for those who seek to understand the complexities of a divided society.

Weight: 764g
Dimension: 165 x 246 x 44 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838954529
Edition number: Main