Ever find yourself on the wrong side of the table in a political argument? Probably not uncommon, especially in an election year, but what if your family chose to stand up for their beliefs in a big way—to even go to war to support the next future King? A scary prospect, especially with all the eventualities of possible death, imprisonment and social ostracisms by neighbors who don’t share your beliefs. These are all problems Helena Woulfe encounters in Anita Davidson’s novel, Duking Days Rebellion.

Helena Woulfe is anxious; even though she tries to follow her mother’s lead and not show it. Her father, brother and uncle just left to support the Duke of Monmouth’s challenge to the throne. Never questioning her father’s politics, Helena knows he’ll do the right thing, but it’s strange how everything changes with his absence. People, even her dead fiancé’s parents, keep their distance. Even the minister denounces Monmouth and his supporters as traitors. It seems like all she has is family, plus the trusted family servants, and the mysterious steward who makes her uneasy.

The Woulfe Household is one of mysterious connections and loyalties. Bayle, her father’s body servant, is notoriously loyal to both her and her mother. Lady Elizabeth, a woman who endured much tragedy in her life, behaves erratically under the stress of both her husband and son serving with the Duke of Monmouth. Then there is their neighbor, Samuel, who is the only one left who seems to care what happens to the Woulfe family.

Duking Days Rebellion is a hard read with period spelling of words that confuse the non-researcher. Then there is the cast of thousands, which makes it hard to keep track of how each person fits into the story. Lady Elizabeth’s descent into depression seems much too rapid. Then there is the need to explain each setting in excruciating detail. This should be a fast-moving story, but it stumbles slowly to its conclusion.

Duking Days Rebellion does have a great deal of historical information, but it is not delivered well. The characters are not charismatic enough to be engaging and the plot line seems to be a bit muddled. I would not recommend this book.

Reviewed by Morgan Wyatt
© March 2008