Red Hugh, Prince of Donegal, written by Robert T. Reilly, features an incredibly strong and laudable hero for us to learn from and imitate. Prince Hugh Roe O’Donnell practically embodies the virtue of nobility in the truest sense of the word, not only as the son of an Irish king, but more importantly through his honorable words and actions. Hugh proves himself to be a young man of great integrity, by treating everyone around him with equal dignity and respect, from the subordinates who are his seniors in age to the ragged beggars who roam about the streets. With his intelligence and natural gallantry, Hugh is the type of guy whom people can’t help but admire and enjoy being with. I was particularly charmed by the wholesome and heart-warming relationship he upholds with his father and mother, as well as the lovely Kathleen, his betrothed. Hugh also displays such bravery and courage as yet to be rivaled, considering how he endangers his own life time and time again, fighting for freedom and the security of his homeland. Even when he is betrayed, imprisoned, and surrounded by enemies on all sides, Hugh never succumbs to fear or despair; rather, he keeps the fire of fortitude ever burning in his young heart. In all honesty, the only character flaw I could manage to identify in Hugh is his tendency to be so strong-willed and adamant that his determination often gets the better of him at the risk of his own safety… an admirable fault, if ever there was one. Overall, Red Hugh serves as an inspirational role model for everyone, both young and old, because he combines the spirit and vigor of youth with the wisdom and good judgement of an age far beyond his years.

As a fictional story based on true historical events, this engaging book is the perfect combination of fanciful reverie and factualism. Set in the late 1500’s, during a time when the after effects of the Middle Ages lend a grandiose atmosphere to life, the legend of Red Hugh bridges the classical antiquity of the medieval with the modern times of today. I recommend this thrilling story to anyone who appreciates the value of loyalty to family and country, as the zealous Prince Hugh inspires us all to learn what it really means to be royalty.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.