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The Last Balfour
MAGIC AND FIRE ARE KINDRED THINGS . . .
DISCOVER AN EXCITING NEW VOICE IN AUSTRALIAN FICTION
Iona Balfour's life is turned upside down when her beloved aunt Grizel is executed for the crime of witchcraft. Before she dies, Grizel appoints Iona as guardian of a precious family bloodstone and tells her she must flee their village and deliver the stone to the mysterious Guild of the Green Lion.
Accompanied by a new friend, Cal, Iona soon realises that she's awakened the powers of the bloodstone. But it promises to be a perilous journey. The wolf month is no time to be on the road. And there's a witch hunter on Iona's trail, who has a strange obsession with the stone.
When a devastating betrayal throws her into the hands of her enemies, Iona soon finds herself in the fight of her life. Will she suffer the same fate as her aunt, or will she escape the witch hunter and fulfil her destiny?
DISCOVER AN EXCITING NEW VOICE IN AUSTRALIAN FICTION
Iona Balfour's life is turned upside down when her beloved aunt Grizel is executed for the crime of witchcraft. Before she dies, Grizel appoints Iona as guardian of a precious family bloodstone and tells her she must flee their village and deliver the stone to the mysterious Guild of the Green Lion.
Accompanied by a new friend, Cal, Iona soon realises that she's awakened the powers of the bloodstone. But it promises to be a perilous journey. The wolf month is no time to be on the road. And there's a witch hunter on Iona's trail, who has a strange obsession with the stone.
When a devastating betrayal throws her into the hands of her enemies, Iona soon finds herself in the fight of her life. Will she suffer the same fate as her aunt, or will she escape the witch hunter and fulfil her destiny?
288 pages, Paperback
First published July 22, 2019
5 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Cait Duggan
3 books14 followersCait Duggan has spent the best part of twenty years working as a corporate lawyer, while harbouring the secret ambition of becoming a writer. This led her to undertake a number of writing courses, including with The Writers Studio and Faber Writing Academy, both in Sydney. Her first attempt at novel writing was a legal thriller that wasn’t the least bit thrilling, so she tweaked the old adage ‘write what you know’ to ‘write what you love’. As she adores history and is obsessed with magic, Cait now writes fantasy and magic realism for children and young adults.
Cait grew up in Sydney, Australia, and now lives in the Blue Mountains, surrounded by nature and a menagerie of ill-behaved fur children.
Cait grew up in Sydney, Australia, and now lives in the Blue Mountains, surrounded by nature and a menagerie of ill-behaved fur children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 4, 2019
I did not know what I was exactly getting myself into when I first started this short little novel by, I think first time Australian author Cait Duggan. I had know idea of what the book was about but it looked sort of interesting when it was displayed in library shelves and since it was short, I decided that I might as well pick it up.
Something about me is that I’m generally weary about trying books that I have not heard about as I can go into them with fairly low expectations, especially so when a book has very little ratings and none of my Goodreads friends have read it which meant that there was essentially no one’s opinions for me to look at before going into this book.
Despite that, I, surprisingly ended up really enjoying this novel which is great. Furthermore, it’s written by an Australian author, and with myself being an Aussie, I always like to read books my Australian authors. We even have our own hashtag which is #LoveOzYa.
The blurb did not give much in terms of location but the book is actually set in a reformist Scotland which was really interesting. To be honest, I am very experienced with historical fiction at all and have not read very much of it(though I want to) since many of the popular ones are normally set in the 20th century(in either WW1 or WW2) and I would much rather read historically fiction in much less well documented times when myths and legends are still roaming around. Very much so like this book when the people of Britain are furiously burning down witches at the stake.
It is a young-adult novel, though there are some more serious themes which may not be suited towards everyone, such as attempted sexual assault which I assume might have been done to give it a more realistic feel considering that inequality for women was even worse several hundred years ago.
My four star rating is mostly because of the setting of lore and magic if I am being truthful as that was what did draw me in. I would imagine that once I become more experienced with historical fiction(which I hope to be) this book may not be rated so highly. I have read loads of fantasy, but this kind of historical fiction that very much so borderlines on fantasy is something that I wish to read more of. I would love people to recommend me some good historical fiction.
The characters were all alright, there was definitely development and change throughout the duration of the book and I suppose I should praise the author on writing a strong female character who does not need to rely on her make counterparts at all times which is nice.
There was nothing amazing in the plot but it was nice nonetheless, with much of the book being bogged down by her journey to Edinburgh. Plot twists come at the end which were not overly predictable, but were also not the most outlandish thing to happen in a book before.
Overall, a good book, would recommend. 7.5/10
Something about me is that I’m generally weary about trying books that I have not heard about as I can go into them with fairly low expectations, especially so when a book has very little ratings and none of my Goodreads friends have read it which meant that there was essentially no one’s opinions for me to look at before going into this book.
Despite that, I, surprisingly ended up really enjoying this novel which is great. Furthermore, it’s written by an Australian author, and with myself being an Aussie, I always like to read books my Australian authors. We even have our own hashtag which is #LoveOzYa.
The blurb did not give much in terms of location but the book is actually set in a reformist Scotland which was really interesting. To be honest, I am very experienced with historical fiction at all and have not read very much of it(though I want to) since many of the popular ones are normally set in the 20th century(in either WW1 or WW2) and I would much rather read historically fiction in much less well documented times when myths and legends are still roaming around. Very much so like this book when the people of Britain are furiously burning down witches at the stake.
It is a young-adult novel, though there are some more serious themes which may not be suited towards everyone, such as attempted sexual assault which I assume might have been done to give it a more realistic feel considering that inequality for women was even worse several hundred years ago.
My four star rating is mostly because of the setting of lore and magic if I am being truthful as that was what did draw me in. I would imagine that once I become more experienced with historical fiction(which I hope to be) this book may not be rated so highly. I have read loads of fantasy, but this kind of historical fiction that very much so borderlines on fantasy is something that I wish to read more of. I would love people to recommend me some good historical fiction.
The characters were all alright, there was definitely development and change throughout the duration of the book and I suppose I should praise the author on writing a strong female character who does not need to rely on her make counterparts at all times which is nice.
There was nothing amazing in the plot but it was nice nonetheless, with much of the book being bogged down by her journey to Edinburgh. Plot twists come at the end which were not overly predictable, but were also not the most outlandish thing to happen in a book before.
Overall, a good book, would recommend. 7.5/10
December 29, 2019
AUSSIE FICTION WRITER! Haha, yes, that deserves all caps. I didn't know this author was Aussie until reading it here on Goodreads, but I love supporting Aussie talent and it makes me even happier I bought this book!
So last night I suffered from a massive anxiety attack and could not sleep at all. I had one stupid thought running through my head over and over and I needed a distraction- this turned out to be the perfect book to both soothe and offer something else to think of. The story was exciting and fast paced, and the subject (Witch fleeing the witch trials in Scotland) was fascinating! I haven't read anything like it in a long time, and although I can't comment on the historical accuracy, I felt like I was living and breathing this story. It felt creepy and poetic all at the same time, and I just had to know the ending. Before I knew it I was turning the last page and finally able to sleep, but now with a much soothed mind.
If youenjoy witches/YA/istorical fiction, then give this one a go! Defintely one of my favorite books this year, I can't recommend it highly enough. Five stars!
So last night I suffered from a massive anxiety attack and could not sleep at all. I had one stupid thought running through my head over and over and I needed a distraction- this turned out to be the perfect book to both soothe and offer something else to think of. The story was exciting and fast paced, and the subject (Witch fleeing the witch trials in Scotland) was fascinating! I haven't read anything like it in a long time, and although I can't comment on the historical accuracy, I felt like I was living and breathing this story. It felt creepy and poetic all at the same time, and I just had to know the ending. Before I knew it I was turning the last page and finally able to sleep, but now with a much soothed mind.
If youenjoy witches/YA/istorical fiction, then give this one a go! Defintely one of my favorite books this year, I can't recommend it highly enough. Five stars!
January 3, 2020
First book of 2020!
Iona Balfour is given the family bloodstone by her aunt Grizel moments before Grizel is strangled and burnt at the stake for being a witch. Her quest is to deliver the bloodstone to The Guild of the Green Lion in Edinburgh. Dogged by a witch hunter and thwarted at every turn, Iona soon discovers that fulfilling her promise is not going to be easy.
I finished this in a couple of nights. I enjoyed it, but at times I felt other people rescued Iona a little too much.
Great writing, good villains and an interesting twist.
Iona Balfour is given the family bloodstone by her aunt Grizel moments before Grizel is strangled and burnt at the stake for being a witch. Her quest is to deliver the bloodstone to The Guild of the Green Lion in Edinburgh. Dogged by a witch hunter and thwarted at every turn, Iona soon discovers that fulfilling her promise is not going to be easy.
I finished this in a couple of nights. I enjoyed it, but at times I felt other people rescued Iona a little too much.
Great writing, good villains and an interesting twist.
September 13, 2021
An utterly riveting tale of magic, danger and witch-hunts in 17th century Scotland that grips you by the throat and won’t let go.
The story is set in sixteenth century Scotland, one of my favourite times and places. King James I sits on the throne, and has a dark, disturbing interest in witchcraft and Satanism (Shakespeare wrote ‘Macbeth’ during his reign, knowing it would appeal to him).
Iona Balfour and her sister Ishbel was raised by their aunt Grizel, but their life is destroyed when Grizel is accused of witchcraft and executed. Just before she dies, Grizel gives Iona an urgent task – she must carry the family heirloom, a bloodstone, to safety. Iona hesitates, but the witch-hunters are now on her trail. Helped by her sister, Iona escapes but the road ahead of her is filled with danger, betrayal and death.
No-one and nothing is as it seems. Iona must discover of her own magical potential and that of the bloodstone she carries if she is to survive.
This is just the kind of historical fantasy I most enjoy – deeply rooted in the real, with a strong sense of place, and a flawed and realistic heroine to cheer for. It is clear Cait Duggan has done her research, but she carries it lightly. I particularly loved the use of witchcraft in the book. Iona has to struggle to understand her powers, and nothing comes easily.
The book is also beautifully & limpidly written – Cait Duggan’s prose is as swift and smooth and dangerous as a Highland river.
The story is set in sixteenth century Scotland, one of my favourite times and places. King James I sits on the throne, and has a dark, disturbing interest in witchcraft and Satanism (Shakespeare wrote ‘Macbeth’ during his reign, knowing it would appeal to him).
Iona Balfour and her sister Ishbel was raised by their aunt Grizel, but their life is destroyed when Grizel is accused of witchcraft and executed. Just before she dies, Grizel gives Iona an urgent task – she must carry the family heirloom, a bloodstone, to safety. Iona hesitates, but the witch-hunters are now on her trail. Helped by her sister, Iona escapes but the road ahead of her is filled with danger, betrayal and death.
No-one and nothing is as it seems. Iona must discover of her own magical potential and that of the bloodstone she carries if she is to survive.
This is just the kind of historical fantasy I most enjoy – deeply rooted in the real, with a strong sense of place, and a flawed and realistic heroine to cheer for. It is clear Cait Duggan has done her research, but she carries it lightly. I particularly loved the use of witchcraft in the book. Iona has to struggle to understand her powers, and nothing comes easily.
The book is also beautifully & limpidly written – Cait Duggan’s prose is as swift and smooth and dangerous as a Highland river.
September 13, 2019
This was a very interesting and insightful historical fantasy story that took me to historical Scotland at a time where witches were burnt at the stake and folk lore was at its peak. It was quite an engaging and interesting story to follow I enjoyed it from beginning to end and I was able to connect with Grizel, our main character and felt her fears, sadness and intensity especially when it came to her sisters Iona and Ishbel. I also enjoyed the clever way the plot unfolded and as well as the characters we met along the way - how their roles intertwined with Scottish folk lore. I can tell thorough research went into the setting, time and legends and it was written very well. Special thanks to Harper Collins Australia Publishers for sending me a review copy of this book.
August 1, 2019
Originally published on The Nerd Daily | Review by Annie Deo
The Last Balfour begins on February 1st 1597, right before the Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 was due to take place in real life, which according to historical records was between March to October of that year. Not much is known about this witch hunt as it wasn’t centrally supervised under royal commission and many records by local authorities went missing, so it’s interesting to think that the events of this novel could potentially fit into Scotland’s history and have played a role in motivating the witch hunt to come.
Our protagonist Iona Balfour comes from a bloodline of witches, and together with her sister Ishbel, she learned how to use magic from their aunt Grizel – although Iona’s magic was never a certain thing whereas Ishbel’s mastery of it was obvious. It’s only after her aunt is arrested for witchcraft and names Iona as guardian of the family bloodstone that she begins to feel a connection to the magic that is her birthright. Unfortunately it couldn’t come at a worse time as her childhood best friend returns to town with a witch finder in tow and Iona is forced to flee.
Dalziel is written ambiguously as a character who is just as likely to help Iona as he is to betray her, and his motivations are murky at best. Iona reflects on his abusive upbringing under a brutish father which led to his departure from their village as soon as he was able to secure a scholarship at a university in the city, and this casts him in a more sympathetic light than a standard traitor would normally receive. Throughout the story, it’s never clear whose side he is truly on and what he really believes, which adds an undercurrent of tension to every scene he appears in.
Cal is a new friend that Iona makes along her journey and he proves to be more true and stalwart than Dalziel; in the brief time he and Iona know each other, the pair get into numerous terrifying life-or-death situations while standing firm by each other’s side. He adds a much-needed injection of warmth and relief after all the heartache Iona endures! From his brief mention in the blurb, I wondered whether he was going to be set up as a love interest, but as Iona turns out to be only 14 and the story puts her through one gruelling ordeal after another in a constant struggle to survive, there is no romantic arc here which seems to be a wise decision as it would’ve been too contrived under the circumstances.
On the topic of ordeals, be warned that there are era-appropriate torture scenes which are graphic but thankfully not excessive; it’s confronting and uncomfortable to read, but true to what real life victims accused of witchcraft were put through. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend the book to younger readers under 14.
This is Cait Duggan’s first novel, although you wouldn’t know it from the smooth writing, deft characterisation, and easy immersion of the reader in early Scotland. It would have been easy for the scenes of Iona invoking blessings from pagan gods or chanting spells to come off as cheesy, but the author spent time on research into witchcraft and folk-tales as demonstrated in a page of sources at the end of the book, and this pays off in the way the story feels grounded in reality even with the paranormal elements.
At just under 300 pages, The Last Balfour moves along briskly with a fast-paced well-constructed plot that makes it easy to devour in one sitting. Iona is an endearing, feisty young heroine whose hair-raising misadventures will have the reader tensing to see how she escapes each time. While she may be naive and either overly trusting or bratty at times, it’s understandable given her age and sheltered upbringing, and that makes the courage and resilience she displays all the more impressive. The story is self-contained and doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but leaves room for further adventures if the author is so inclined. Based on this debut, readers will no doubt welcome more!
The Last Balfour begins on February 1st 1597, right before the Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 was due to take place in real life, which according to historical records was between March to October of that year. Not much is known about this witch hunt as it wasn’t centrally supervised under royal commission and many records by local authorities went missing, so it’s interesting to think that the events of this novel could potentially fit into Scotland’s history and have played a role in motivating the witch hunt to come.
Our protagonist Iona Balfour comes from a bloodline of witches, and together with her sister Ishbel, she learned how to use magic from their aunt Grizel – although Iona’s magic was never a certain thing whereas Ishbel’s mastery of it was obvious. It’s only after her aunt is arrested for witchcraft and names Iona as guardian of the family bloodstone that she begins to feel a connection to the magic that is her birthright. Unfortunately it couldn’t come at a worse time as her childhood best friend returns to town with a witch finder in tow and Iona is forced to flee.
Dalziel is written ambiguously as a character who is just as likely to help Iona as he is to betray her, and his motivations are murky at best. Iona reflects on his abusive upbringing under a brutish father which led to his departure from their village as soon as he was able to secure a scholarship at a university in the city, and this casts him in a more sympathetic light than a standard traitor would normally receive. Throughout the story, it’s never clear whose side he is truly on and what he really believes, which adds an undercurrent of tension to every scene he appears in.
Cal is a new friend that Iona makes along her journey and he proves to be more true and stalwart than Dalziel; in the brief time he and Iona know each other, the pair get into numerous terrifying life-or-death situations while standing firm by each other’s side. He adds a much-needed injection of warmth and relief after all the heartache Iona endures! From his brief mention in the blurb, I wondered whether he was going to be set up as a love interest, but as Iona turns out to be only 14 and the story puts her through one gruelling ordeal after another in a constant struggle to survive, there is no romantic arc here which seems to be a wise decision as it would’ve been too contrived under the circumstances.
On the topic of ordeals, be warned that there are era-appropriate torture scenes which are graphic but thankfully not excessive; it’s confronting and uncomfortable to read, but true to what real life victims accused of witchcraft were put through. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend the book to younger readers under 14.
This is Cait Duggan’s first novel, although you wouldn’t know it from the smooth writing, deft characterisation, and easy immersion of the reader in early Scotland. It would have been easy for the scenes of Iona invoking blessings from pagan gods or chanting spells to come off as cheesy, but the author spent time on research into witchcraft and folk-tales as demonstrated in a page of sources at the end of the book, and this pays off in the way the story feels grounded in reality even with the paranormal elements.
At just under 300 pages, The Last Balfour moves along briskly with a fast-paced well-constructed plot that makes it easy to devour in one sitting. Iona is an endearing, feisty young heroine whose hair-raising misadventures will have the reader tensing to see how she escapes each time. While she may be naive and either overly trusting or bratty at times, it’s understandable given her age and sheltered upbringing, and that makes the courage and resilience she displays all the more impressive. The story is self-contained and doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but leaves room for further adventures if the author is so inclined. Based on this debut, readers will no doubt welcome more!
November 17, 2019
I found this to be an accurate portrayal of medieval times and the belief that any woman who was outside men's control was to be punished.
A fantasy built on medieval history which was easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
A fantasy built on medieval history which was easy to read and thoroughly enjoyable.
July 13, 2019
Many thanks to Reading Time [http://readingtime.com.au/] who provided a copy of this book for my honest review. http://readingtime.com.au/the-last-ba...
The Last Balfour is set during The Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 during King James VI reign. Our narrator, Iona, and her sister Ishbel have been raised by their aunt Grizel, who is skilled in the use of herbs and spells to help her neighbours in the village. Before Grizel is executed for practicing witchcraft, she entrusts Iona with a precious bloodstone and instructs her to flee to Edinburgh to deliver the stone to a man Iona has never heard of.
Iona is pursued by the witch hunter Finster, who is a nasty piece of work, and is betrayed by her dearest and oldest friend. But she also finds an ally (and perhaps a future love interest?) in Cal, a shapeshifter. The story is fast paced, and a real page turner. Do be warned, there are some quite graphic torture scenes which are totally appropriate and in context, however, I would not recommend this book for readers younger that 14 years old.
The use of old Scottish words and terms adds to the immersive nature of the narrative, but I feel a glossary would help the reader reach a better understanding of what’s going on. There were many words I needed to look up, and I’m sure the YA intended audience would appreciate some help with some of these words.
Cait Duggan has written an extremely well paced, classic tale of a journey and a quest. This is Duggan’s first novel, and you wouldn’t know it! Iona is an easy to relate to narrator, whose actions are understandable and with whom the reader empathises.
The Last Balfour concludes with a twist, and is very satisfying. There is no indication that there will be more books. However, if Duggan wishes to, there is definitely scope to continue Iona’s story, and I am sure her readers would be thrilled.
The Last Balfour is set during The Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 during King James VI reign. Our narrator, Iona, and her sister Ishbel have been raised by their aunt Grizel, who is skilled in the use of herbs and spells to help her neighbours in the village. Before Grizel is executed for practicing witchcraft, she entrusts Iona with a precious bloodstone and instructs her to flee to Edinburgh to deliver the stone to a man Iona has never heard of.
Iona is pursued by the witch hunter Finster, who is a nasty piece of work, and is betrayed by her dearest and oldest friend. But she also finds an ally (and perhaps a future love interest?) in Cal, a shapeshifter. The story is fast paced, and a real page turner. Do be warned, there are some quite graphic torture scenes which are totally appropriate and in context, however, I would not recommend this book for readers younger that 14 years old.
The use of old Scottish words and terms adds to the immersive nature of the narrative, but I feel a glossary would help the reader reach a better understanding of what’s going on. There were many words I needed to look up, and I’m sure the YA intended audience would appreciate some help with some of these words.
Cait Duggan has written an extremely well paced, classic tale of a journey and a quest. This is Duggan’s first novel, and you wouldn’t know it! Iona is an easy to relate to narrator, whose actions are understandable and with whom the reader empathises.
The Last Balfour concludes with a twist, and is very satisfying. There is no indication that there will be more books. However, if Duggan wishes to, there is definitely scope to continue Iona’s story, and I am sure her readers would be thrilled.
August 20, 2019
I am one of the privileged souls who get to read Cait's first novel and must I say it was an entertaining trip down the lane of witchcraft and magic.
About writing, I like the detailed description of every plot in the story whether the appearance of fog as the young witch finds her way to cross the river or dark prisons her wretched soul has to took shelters of as she muster courage and hope in those dreadly dark pits .
Use of old Scottish words made the whole reading experience comes to life.
Speaking about the story, it is full of thrilling plots that kept me hooked as the story unravels. This is a tale of a girl defying her Fate until her last breathe.
Witches are bad omen, make deals with Satan in lieu of their human souls and so all devout follower of Church including King wants them to be punished by burning alive. On her journey she made a life long friendship with a druid, though betrayed already by her childhood friend it took her a while to acknowledge this friendship through unexpected turn of events.
I strongly recommend this novel to those who are interested in this genre. You will not be disappointed. 🤘
About writing, I like the detailed description of every plot in the story whether the appearance of fog as the young witch finds her way to cross the river or dark prisons her wretched soul has to took shelters of as she muster courage and hope in those dreadly dark pits .
Use of old Scottish words made the whole reading experience comes to life.
Speaking about the story, it is full of thrilling plots that kept me hooked as the story unravels. This is a tale of a girl defying her Fate until her last breathe.
Witches are bad omen, make deals with Satan in lieu of their human souls and so all devout follower of Church including King wants them to be punished by burning alive. On her journey she made a life long friendship with a druid, though betrayed already by her childhood friend it took her a while to acknowledge this friendship through unexpected turn of events.
I strongly recommend this novel to those who are interested in this genre. You will not be disappointed. 🤘
October 3, 2020
I started reading this because it was longlisted for the CBCA Book of the Year - Older Readers. Then I realised it matched Tropes Ahoy - August's prompt for the Aus YA Bloggers 2020 Reading Challenge. How many tropes can one author pack into a book? Too many for me:
- a fantastical quest
- magic is forbidden
- orphan life
- love triangle
- shape-shifting
And on and on. I was so disappointed. I had high hopes from the blurb and cover. Things went downhill from there...
The ending was basically:
Oh yeah, nothing is concluded by the end so I guess it's a series. No clue of that from the cover, blurb, etc.
- a fantastical quest
- magic is forbidden
- orphan life
- love triangle
- shape-shifting
And on and on. I was so disappointed. I had high hopes from the blurb and cover. Things went downhill from there...
The ending was basically:
Oh yeah, nothing is concluded by the end so I guess it's a series. No clue of that from the cover, blurb, etc.
September 28, 2021
Good story about a young woman who is part of a family of witches, facing persecution in older times of witch burning. As we start the story, her aunt is being killed for the crime of witchcraft, and Iona our heroine is about to be arrested for the same crime. I enjoyed reading about her escapades
July 21, 2019
Originally posted at my blog.
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‘The Last Balfour’ begins on February 1st 1597, right before the Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 was due to take place in real life, which according to historical records was between March to October of that year. Not much is known about this witch hunt as it wasn’t centrally supervised under royal commission and many records by local authorities went missing, so it’s interesting to think that the events of this novel could potentially fit into Scotland’s history and have played a role in motivating the witch hunt to come.
Our protagonist Iona Balfour comes from a bloodline of witches, and together with her sister Ishbel, she learned how to use magic from their aunt Grizel – although Iona’s magic was never a certain thing whereas Ishbel’s mastery of it was obvious. It’s only after her aunt is arrested for witchcraft and names Iona as guardian of the family bloodstone that she begins to feel a connection to the magic that is her birthright. Unfortunately it couldn’t come at a worse time as her childhood best friend returns to town with a witch finder in tow and Iona is forced to flee.
Dalziel is written ambiguously as a character who is just as likely to help Iona as he is to betray her, and his motivations are murky at best. Iona reflects on his abusive upbringing under a brutish father which led to his departure from their village as soon as he was able to secure a scholarship at a university in the city, and this casts him in a more sympathetic light than a standard traitor would normally receive. Throughout the story, it’s never clear whose side he is truly on and what he really believes, which adds an undercurrent of tension to every scene he appears in.
Cal is a new friend that Iona makes along her journey and he proves to be more true and stalwart than Dalziel; in the brief time he and Iona know each other, the pair get into numerous terrifying life-or-death situations while standing firm by each other’s side. He adds a much-needed injection of warmth and relief after all the heartache Iona endures! From his brief mention in the blurb, I wondered whether he was going to be set up as a love interest, but as Iona turns out to be only 14 and the story puts her through one grueling ordeal after another in a constant struggle to survive, there is no romantic arc here which seems to be a wise decision as it would’ve been too contrived under the circumstances.
On the topic of ordeals, be warned that there are era-appropriate torture scenes which are graphic but thankfully not excessive; it’s confronting and uncomfortable to read, but true to what real life victims accused of witchcraft were put through. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend the book to younger readers under 14.
This is Cait Duggan’s first novel, although you wouldn’t know it from the smooth writing, deft characterization and easy immersion of the reader in early Scotland. It would have been easy for the scenes of Iona invoking blessings from pagan gods or chanting spells to come off as cheesy, but the author spent time on research into witchcraft and folk-tales as demonstrated in a page of sources at the end of the book, and this pays off in the way the story feels grounded in reality even with the paranormal elements.
At just under 300 pages, ‘The Last Balfour’ moves along briskly with a fast-paced well-constructed plot that makes it easy to devour in one sitting. Iona is an endearing, feisty young heroine whose hair-raising misadventures will have the reader tensing to see how she escapes each time. While she may be naive and either overly trusting or bratty at times, it’s understandable given her age and sheltered upbringing, and that makes the courage and resilience she displays all the more impressive. The story is self-contained and doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but leaves room for further adventures if the author is so inclined. Based on this debut, readers will no doubt welcome more!
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Disclaimer: Physical copy provided by publisher free for an unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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‘The Last Balfour’ begins on February 1st 1597, right before the Great Scottish Witch Hunt of 1597 was due to take place in real life, which according to historical records was between March to October of that year. Not much is known about this witch hunt as it wasn’t centrally supervised under royal commission and many records by local authorities went missing, so it’s interesting to think that the events of this novel could potentially fit into Scotland’s history and have played a role in motivating the witch hunt to come.
Our protagonist Iona Balfour comes from a bloodline of witches, and together with her sister Ishbel, she learned how to use magic from their aunt Grizel – although Iona’s magic was never a certain thing whereas Ishbel’s mastery of it was obvious. It’s only after her aunt is arrested for witchcraft and names Iona as guardian of the family bloodstone that she begins to feel a connection to the magic that is her birthright. Unfortunately it couldn’t come at a worse time as her childhood best friend returns to town with a witch finder in tow and Iona is forced to flee.
Dalziel is written ambiguously as a character who is just as likely to help Iona as he is to betray her, and his motivations are murky at best. Iona reflects on his abusive upbringing under a brutish father which led to his departure from their village as soon as he was able to secure a scholarship at a university in the city, and this casts him in a more sympathetic light than a standard traitor would normally receive. Throughout the story, it’s never clear whose side he is truly on and what he really believes, which adds an undercurrent of tension to every scene he appears in.
Cal is a new friend that Iona makes along her journey and he proves to be more true and stalwart than Dalziel; in the brief time he and Iona know each other, the pair get into numerous terrifying life-or-death situations while standing firm by each other’s side. He adds a much-needed injection of warmth and relief after all the heartache Iona endures! From his brief mention in the blurb, I wondered whether he was going to be set up as a love interest, but as Iona turns out to be only 14 and the story puts her through one grueling ordeal after another in a constant struggle to survive, there is no romantic arc here which seems to be a wise decision as it would’ve been too contrived under the circumstances.
On the topic of ordeals, be warned that there are era-appropriate torture scenes which are graphic but thankfully not excessive; it’s confronting and uncomfortable to read, but true to what real life victims accused of witchcraft were put through. Because of this, I wouldn’t recommend the book to younger readers under 14.
This is Cait Duggan’s first novel, although you wouldn’t know it from the smooth writing, deft characterization and easy immersion of the reader in early Scotland. It would have been easy for the scenes of Iona invoking blessings from pagan gods or chanting spells to come off as cheesy, but the author spent time on research into witchcraft and folk-tales as demonstrated in a page of sources at the end of the book, and this pays off in the way the story feels grounded in reality even with the paranormal elements.
At just under 300 pages, ‘The Last Balfour’ moves along briskly with a fast-paced well-constructed plot that makes it easy to devour in one sitting. Iona is an endearing, feisty young heroine whose hair-raising misadventures will have the reader tensing to see how she escapes each time. While she may be naive and either overly trusting or bratty at times, it’s understandable given her age and sheltered upbringing, and that makes the courage and resilience she displays all the more impressive. The story is self-contained and doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, but leaves room for further adventures if the author is so inclined. Based on this debut, readers will no doubt welcome more!
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Disclaimer: Physical copy provided by publisher free for an unbiased review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 19, 2019
A short and fast paced novel about witchcraft and family. I really enjoyed following the story of the main character and had hoped that we would get to see more of her journey. Unfortunately the book was a little short and tended to ‘gloss’ over the action packed parts and draw lots of attention to the more boring parts. If this book was a little longer and there was more in the plot apart from Iona trying to get to Edinburgh, this would’ve been a great fantasy read. I did like the plot twist at the end and would probably still pick up the sequel as overall, I did quite enjoy the book.
3 and a half stars ✨
3 and a half stars ✨
April 6, 2023
The first time I read this book, I wasn't prepared to fall so far into this world. Throughout the book, Iona's character becomes more clear and I love her personality so much.
Iona's aunt Grizel leaves in Iona's possession the bloodstone. Iona has to take the stone to the Guild of the Green Lion, but on the way she is hunted by a witch hunter because Grizel was known to be magical. The journey was long and hard for Iona, and my heart jumped at every twist and turn. This is an amazing tale well worth reading.
Iona's aunt Grizel leaves in Iona's possession the bloodstone. Iona has to take the stone to the Guild of the Green Lion, but on the way she is hunted by a witch hunter because Grizel was known to be magical. The journey was long and hard for Iona, and my heart jumped at every twist and turn. This is an amazing tale well worth reading.
June 10, 2019
Complex, detailed, confronting.
December 15, 2020
I would recommend this to everyone because I feel like a lot of people would enjoy this.. it just wasn’t for me unfortunately
September 20, 2019
I am a HUGE fan of witchcraft fiction so I went into The Last Balfour with so much hope. I can't even begin to express how disappointed I am.
The main and most prominent issue I had with this book is how messy it is. It lacks order, development and a proper structure to say the least. The plot development was out of control and the whole story felt extremely rushed! I needed way more details, background stories and descriptions to be mildly invested in Iona's story. I can understand the idea of trying to get the reader invested from chapter 1, but how can I do that if there is all this drama happening so quickly and without preamble? The massive info-dump at the beginning annoyed me a lot.
Another issue I had was with the characters, especially with the main character Iona. She was quite an unrealistic character, given she is supposed to be 14 years old (I believe?) and she was portrayed as a late teen?; but regardless of the age, she is all telling but zero showing. It was impossible to get to know any other characters given that the only information we get about them is through Iona's perspective; i.e. according to Iona, her aunty is a goddess and her sister is a bitch, although we don't get to see any of that so, as a reader, I couldn't give the secondary characters any voice whatsoever. The poor character development added to my only wish throughout the book: I needed MORE! Stronger voices and way more showing!
There were quite a few tropes that were pointless and predicable. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to enjoy this story given the under-developed writing and the unnecessary rush. The concept of The Last Balfour has a lot of potential, but I believe the story needed more dedication and work. Overall, this wasn't the book for me, however, I'm aware I'm one of unpopular opinions and I'm quite certain that fantasy fans will enjoy the story.
The main and most prominent issue I had with this book is how messy it is. It lacks order, development and a proper structure to say the least. The plot development was out of control and the whole story felt extremely rushed! I needed way more details, background stories and descriptions to be mildly invested in Iona's story. I can understand the idea of trying to get the reader invested from chapter 1, but how can I do that if there is all this drama happening so quickly and without preamble? The massive info-dump at the beginning annoyed me a lot.
Another issue I had was with the characters, especially with the main character Iona. She was quite an unrealistic character, given she is supposed to be 14 years old (I believe?) and she was portrayed as a late teen?; but regardless of the age, she is all telling but zero showing. It was impossible to get to know any other characters given that the only information we get about them is through Iona's perspective; i.e. according to Iona, her aunty is a goddess and her sister is a bitch, although we don't get to see any of that so, as a reader, I couldn't give the secondary characters any voice whatsoever. The poor character development added to my only wish throughout the book: I needed MORE! Stronger voices and way more showing!
There were quite a few tropes that were pointless and predicable. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to enjoy this story given the under-developed writing and the unnecessary rush. The concept of The Last Balfour has a lot of potential, but I believe the story needed more dedication and work. Overall, this wasn't the book for me, however, I'm aware I'm one of unpopular opinions and I'm quite certain that fantasy fans will enjoy the story.
January 5, 2020
A fast paced story of witchcraft set in Scotland in 1597. Teenager Iona Balfour, yt to come into her full witching powers is instructed to find and deliver the bloodstone, a family heirloom just before her aunt Grizel is executed for being a witch. Fleeing with the stone Iona is beset with danger, deceit and betrayal as she struggles to reach Edinburgh..
Duggan has drawn on a rich source of Scottish history and folklore and the time, setting and superstitious people are captured effectively, enhanced with Scottish dialect, chants and descriptive passage. The Last Balfour realistically captures the sixteenth century when witchcraft was considered something evil to be stamped out and when capable, independent women were regarded with suspicion. The torture scenes and equipment used are graphically portrayed - so not for the faint hearted.
Thoroughly enjoyed the read though felt that the succession of bad luck and Iona's misplaced trust was not always convincing. The conclusion seemed a little too convenient and did not ring true with the authenticity of the events leading up to it.
Duggan has drawn on a rich source of Scottish history and folklore and the time, setting and superstitious people are captured effectively, enhanced with Scottish dialect, chants and descriptive passage. The Last Balfour realistically captures the sixteenth century when witchcraft was considered something evil to be stamped out and when capable, independent women were regarded with suspicion. The torture scenes and equipment used are graphically portrayed - so not for the faint hearted.
Thoroughly enjoyed the read though felt that the succession of bad luck and Iona's misplaced trust was not always convincing. The conclusion seemed a little too convenient and did not ring true with the authenticity of the events leading up to it.
July 22, 2025
The novel started strong, weaving beautiful imagery and lore into a quest to escape capture and deliver a family heirloom. And then the last half of the book rushing into poorly crafted chaos.
Character relationships were undercooked and fragile. The protagonist, a 14 year old, seemed much older - I couldn’t understand why the author didn’t just make her at least 16 or 17, especially with the awful torture scenes later in the story. It was uncomfortable to read.
I was disappointed by the ending. The adventure cut short by what felt like way too many pages of unpleasant and unsettling torture of a child, only for a short and sharp ‘everything fell into place’ ending. And the dismissal of her ‘friend’ that seems to simply remain an animal pet at the end of it all.
There was so much potential, the writing and world building in some parts truly enjoyable. The herb lore and fairytales were a highlight but the overall content and result of the story were lacking.
2.5/5
Character relationships were undercooked and fragile. The protagonist, a 14 year old, seemed much older - I couldn’t understand why the author didn’t just make her at least 16 or 17, especially with the awful torture scenes later in the story. It was uncomfortable to read.
I was disappointed by the ending. The adventure cut short by what felt like way too many pages of unpleasant and unsettling torture of a child, only for a short and sharp ‘everything fell into place’ ending. And the dismissal of her ‘friend’ that seems to simply remain an animal pet at the end of it all.
There was so much potential, the writing and world building in some parts truly enjoyable. The herb lore and fairytales were a highlight but the overall content and result of the story were lacking.
2.5/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2019
Read my full review on the Shannon A/ Jade blog.
My The Last Balfour Top 3:
- Unique historical setting/theme with great research (how many books have you read about Scottish witch trials?)
- High stakes and fast pace
- Unpredictable plot and rich imagery (+ an Aussie debut author!)
The Last Balfour is Aussie author Cait Duggan’s debut novel, a glimpse into a period of history we rarely get the chance to read stories about. The novel follows main character Iona as she moves through the trials and tribulations of being a witch in 16thcentury witch-hunting Scotland. It is rich, immersive, fascinating, and exciting. A spectacular blend of historical fiction and fantasy, this book is the newest YA must-read.
My The Last Balfour Top 3:
- Unique historical setting/theme with great research (how many books have you read about Scottish witch trials?)
- High stakes and fast pace
- Unpredictable plot and rich imagery (+ an Aussie debut author!)
The Last Balfour is Aussie author Cait Duggan’s debut novel, a glimpse into a period of history we rarely get the chance to read stories about. The novel follows main character Iona as she moves through the trials and tribulations of being a witch in 16thcentury witch-hunting Scotland. It is rich, immersive, fascinating, and exciting. A spectacular blend of historical fiction and fantasy, this book is the newest YA must-read.
February 2, 2026
I bought this not realising it was YA. That is not nomally my preferred reading.
However, it it is well written with lots of twists and cliffhangers. There are a great many books about witches but this is the first I have read about Scottish witches. Hats off to Cait Duggun for finding a good number of appropriate, and old, Scottish words to sprinkle through it.
It is fantasy,. Its YA. Its about witches. So don't be surprised about a lot of magic and some remarkable 'escapes' fostered by magic.
Hope you enjoy it.
However, it it is well written with lots of twists and cliffhangers. There are a great many books about witches but this is the first I have read about Scottish witches. Hats off to Cait Duggun for finding a good number of appropriate, and old, Scottish words to sprinkle through it.
It is fantasy,. Its YA. Its about witches. So don't be surprised about a lot of magic and some remarkable 'escapes' fostered by magic.
Hope you enjoy it.
December 6, 2019
This was a lovely historical fiction story set in the witch burning time. Outside of being so small and the pace being rather laid back the only flaw to this book is that it leaves you wanting more from the main character. It is set up as an amazing first book with some amazing characters and so much potential to improve. I would recommend this book to people who enjoy a good witch paranormal story
August 2, 2019
Och! The best ending to a book that I've read in ages. So clever. I did not see it coming and neither will you. Loved every minute of my journey with Iona Balfour through Scotland 500 years ago. It was like I was her for a time.
March 27, 2020
Wow just finished
Thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a book
Fast paced a page turner ,unpredictable.
I couldn’t put it down
A little like Juliet Marillier
I hope there will be a sequel or a least another book along the same line, fantastic considering
this is Caitlin Duggan’s first novel
Thoroughly enjoyed this gem of a book
Fast paced a page turner ,unpredictable.
I couldn’t put it down
A little like Juliet Marillier
I hope there will be a sequel or a least another book along the same line, fantastic considering
this is Caitlin Duggan’s first novel
July 2, 2020
A quick, compelling read, with brilliant imagery and absorbing witchy - Scottish magic.
Violence against women warning - The witch-tortures were just off-screen and only just stopped before they got too dark and disgusting for this reader.
Really can't wait for the next one.
Violence against women warning - The witch-tortures were just off-screen and only just stopped before they got too dark and disgusting for this reader.
Really can't wait for the next one.
August 8, 2020
Well researched and greatly executed tale of witchcraft in Scotland. I really appreciated how this book didn’t glamorise the craft in any way and kept the fantasy element to a minimum. I look forward to further books from this Author.
August 27, 2020
Of course I had to read this book and give it to all of my family members ;)
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
They were dark times and Cait involved the reader in the historical terrors of the day.
Very enjoyable read for me.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
They were dark times and Cait involved the reader in the historical terrors of the day.
Very enjoyable read for me.
March 15, 2022
honestly, the cover is absolutely gorgeous ,however the story on the first maybe three pages is drawn out and slow, after that it picks up but only for some time, when iona is in the most trouble the book quite quickly drew me in and by the end i couldn't put it down at all.
June 14, 2023
An interesting read about Iona who is accused of witchcraft in 1500s Scotland. It may be a little slow for some as a good part of the book was centred around Iona's trial. But there was a wonderful Scottish 'feel' to the book - I do like when I have to research terms that come up in my reading.
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