Thomas Mark Johnston

In the tradition of writers like Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden, Thomas Mark Johnston brings a passion for research and a deft talent for writing to his highly praised historical fiction books.

From the Virginia plantations to the Ingrian war, from the Ulster plantations to the Western US, he regales readers with richly written tales of the Border Reivers and their descendants. Genealogy, history and a tenacious dedication to the Scots Irish heritage all play major roles in his writing.

Historical fiction readers will especially enjoy the connections he reveals between the Border Reivers and the fiercely independent Northumbrians. Whether you are a fan of Kenneth Branagh’s Belfast or Alexander Dreymon in The Last Kingdom, you will find Johnston’s work to be wonderfully captivating and highly informative.

MY KINGDOM FOR A HORSE

Scotland, 1585. Lord Warden Johnstone is leading a troop of his clansmen back home. Pursued by Lord Maxwell, a battle of survival is about to commence. Meanwhile, Lady Margaret and her son, James eagerly await, looking out over the battlements of Lochwood Castle.

The ensuing battle leads to a sequence of events that would reverberate down the ages through history. Referred to previously as border clans, The Border Reivers would be used throughout the world as mercenary soldiers because of their unrivalled fighting ability.

The theft of a horse by a band of Johnstones from Wamphray led to the Battle of Dryfe Sands, the disbandment of the border clans and their banishment to the colonies by King James VI of Scotland after he became King James I of England and Ireland in 1603. The kingdom was united, and all for the theft of a horse!

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