Synopses & Reviews
Robert Low moves from the Vikings of his acclaimed Oathsworn novels to the making of Scotland in this first novel in a major new series It is 1296 and Scotland is in turmoilthe old king, Alexander III, has died after falling off his horse one dark and stormy night. Edward I of England, desperate to keep control of his northern borders, arranges for John Baliol, a weak man who Edward knows he can manipulate, to take leadership of Scotland. But unrest is rife and many are determined to throw off the shackles of England. Among those men is Robert the Brucedarkly handsome, young, angry, and obsessed by his desire to win Scotland's throne. He will fight for the freedom of the Scots until the end. But there are many rival factions and the English are a strong and fearsome opponent. The story culminates in the Battle of Falkirk which proves to be the beginning of a rivalry that will last for decades.
Review
"Compelling and convincing." —San Francisco Book Review
Synopsis
A nation will fight for its freedom.
The first novel in a major new series as Robert Low moves from the Vikings to the making of Scotland.
In the dying days of the 13th century, Scotland is in turmoil. The death of Alexander III has plunged the country into war, both with itself and with Edward I of England. Determined to bring the north under his control, Edward instead unleashes a Scottish rebellion which unites the many warring factions against him - though the old hatreds are not easily put aside.
Sir Hal Sientcler of Herdmanston, a minor noble of Lothian, finds himself caught up in the chivalry and honour, as well as the betrayal and murder that form these desperate days. As the rebellion gathers pace, Sir Hal is thrust into the maelstrom of plot and counterplot which shapes the lives of the great and good in both realms - including rebel leaders William Wallace and Robert the Bruce - as well as neighbours who now find themselves on opposite sides of the battlefield.
Hal makes a powerful enemy out of the Earl of Buchan, arch-rival of the Bruces, and swears revenge. But first he must survive battles at Stirling Brig and Falkirk; the treachery of rival factions; and guard a secret that Robert the Bruce would protect from the outside world at any cost.
When the lion wakes, everyone must fear its fangs...
About the Author
Robert Low is the author of the Oathsworn series, which includes The Whale Road, The Wolf Sea, The White Rave, and The Prow Beast.