Lynne Reid Banks,
The Dungeon.
Collins Children's Books, 2002.
ISBN: 0 00 713777 X

Set in medieval Scotland and China, this is a violent and often disturbing novel. Bruce McLennan, a Scottish laird, builds himself a formidable castle, the most important feature of which is the dungeon where he plans to hold his enemies captive--and he has one particular prisoner in mind. Determined to avenge the murder of his wife and children, he plans to capture and imprison the man responsible, neighbouring laird McInnes. Whilst the castle is being built, McLennan travels to China, where he buys a young girl, Peony, who becomes his slave. He mistreats her terribly, beating her, barely giving her enough food to survive and showing her no love or affection. However, she worships him as she knows his soul is troubled and does not blame him for his harsh words and actions. When he returns to Scotland with Peony, he prepares to attack McInnes, but all does not go according to plan and a bloodthirsty battle ensues. There is little cheer in this violent, powerful novel, but it is a compelling read and paints a vivid picture of a very harsh period of history.

RA 12+/ IL14+
Reviewed by Sarah Harrington
Spring 2003