Teenage Adventure, Friend Or Foe? By Patricia Marson, Delves Into 17th Century Trust, Friendship And Survival

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, Friend Or Foe? by Patricia Marson is a 17th-century historical adventure novel for young readers, exploring trust and survival with a magical twist amidst the dangers of the Scottish-English border.

Friend Or Foe?

Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the late 17th century, a period when the violent raids along the Scottish-English border are beginning to wane, Friend or Foe? by Patricia Marson transports readers to a world where danger still lurks beneath the surface.

Marson’s storytelling shines through a fast-paced plot, relatable characters, and a richly detailed setting that pulses with shifting alliances and hidden motives. It’s a tale that doesn’t just entertain—it invites young minds to wrestle with moral dilemmas, explore the complexities of friendship, and weigh the risks of misplaced trust.

The story centers on Abby, a young girl whose life is upended when an arson-fueled raid destroys her family’s farmhouse, separating her from her father and brothers. Alone and vulnerable, Abby’s journey takes a fantastical turn when she encounters Poddle, a quirky goblin straight out of the cautionary tales her brothers once told. Is this creature a friend or a trickster waiting to ensnare her? The uncertainty keeps readers on edge, mirroring Abby’s own doubts.

Enter Robert, a chance acquaintance whose kindness seems genuine—but appearances can deceive. Then there’s Ed, a sinister figure from Abby’s past, a former farmworker dismissed for theft and now resurfacing with questionable intentions. Marson deftly crafts these characters to embody the novel’s central theme: trust is a gamble, and the stakes are high.

What makes Friend or Foe? so compelling is its ability to resonate with its audience. Abby’s longing to reunite with her family and restore the safety of her old life is a universal desire, rendered with emotional depth that young readers can connect to. The historical setting—rooted in a time of fading border conflicts—adds authenticity, while the fantastical elements, like Poddle the goblin, inject a playful originality that keeps the story fresh.

Marson’s novel is more than just an adventure; it’s a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, second chances, and the courage it takes to navigate a world where foes might masquerade as friends. The pacing never falters, pulling readers through twists and turns as Abby grapples with her choices. Will she uncover the truth behind those she meets? Will her family be reunited? The answers remain tantalizingly out of reach until the final pages, ensuring that Friend or Foe? is as gripping as it is reflective.

For fans of adventure fiction seeking something beyond the ordinary, Friend or Foe? is a perfect pick. It’s a book that entertains while subtly encouraging its readers to question their own instincts about trust and loyalty. Patricia Marson has delivered a gem that bridges the gap between historical intrigue and imaginative storytelling—a must-read for young adventurers ready to embark on a journey of discovery.

Patricia Marson

At the age of 16 I chose to pursue a career in science rather than my first love of English. However, I never gave up writing for pleasure and have had a number of short stories published. This is my first attempt at a children’s book. I live with my husband in Fife on the east coast of Scotland and we have two sons and three grandchildren.

-Patricia Marson

Find more from Patricia Marson now:

Apple Books: https://apple.co/4hJYw7Z

Apple Audiobooks: https://apple.co/41VPpLw

Kindle: https://amzn.to/4c4vVJt

Paperback: https://amzn.to/420fEAv