Robert the Bruce: King of Scots [Paperback]

Drawing from various historical and literary sources, including a number of contemporary chronicles on both the English and Scottish sides, Scott takes us from the death of Alexander III to the intervention and interposition of Edward I; from Stirling to Falkirk; from the death of Wallace to that of Longshanks himself. And then in riveting detail, the campaigns of the Bruce.

"Braveheart" would have you believe that Scottish independence was won on the fields of Bannockburn. While that was indeed a turning point for the rag-tag Scottish army, it was not until 14 years later that a truce was signed and England formally recognized Scotland's borders and her right to be secure within them. We also learn of many other discrepancies between history and film.

A pair of Grahams receive honorable (or, dishonorable) mention--Sirs David and Patrick. Unfortunately, the tendency for our Scots forbears to be on the wrong side of history holds true. Sir David is named in the plot to capture Wallace (who is actually taken in the home of Sir John Menteith--a cadet clan of the Grahams). Sir Patrick was connected with a plot to assassinate King Robert--he was later acquitted.

If you are interested in learning the facts behind a great quest for freedom and independence--or simply some of the history behind this great warrior-king, I highly recommend this fine work.

From the in house fight with the Comyns, through the early fighting against the English by Wallace, the hit and run raids to the brief, deadly assaults with his solid henchman, Bruce rampages through this book like a juggernaut, coming alive after seven hundred years, his faithful lieutenants, among them his brother Edward and 'The Black' Douglas, range the English/Scottish border taking revenge for years of privations and cruel vengeance of the English King, Edward I, 'Longshanks.'

Working his way through legend and myth to find the 'real' Bruce, the author weaves his tale of high adventure, blook-curdling killings and heartbreaking marches. His brother's adventures in Ireland are not neglected, nor is the climactic battle of Bannockburn, that is highlighted by such a killing of English nobility that the Scots won their freedom and the Bruce was recognozed as their king.

Very seldom does a book of this quality show up. If you haven't read it, you're missing a great treat. If you have, you'll want to read it again, as I have.

The Bruce's legacy, so vividly illustrated in the book, of tremendous courage, resilience, leadership, and compassion is inspiring to any reader. Particularly moving was the Bruce's repeated displays of grace to his defeated enemies and political opponents. How rare in history to see such compassion from a victor in battle!

I couldn't help but think that the story of Robert the Bruce, with his ultimate triumph of Scottich independence and peace for Scotland (relatively speaking) would have made for a great Hollywood movie - at least a sequel to "Braveheart." This has all the components of a great epic; heros, villains, love and romance, overcoming great odds to win ultimate victory, betrayal, international diplomacy, graphic battlefield scenes and individual combat vividly displayed that puts the reader alongside The Bruce at his "moments of truth".

Scott's use of quotes from the actual people involved makes for a time travel experience worth taking. Putting the story in historical persectives from his contemporaries (and the Bruce himself) makes the reader appreciate the social, political, and religious issues confronting Bruce throughout his life. Many times I found myself anxious for the outcome of Bruce's campaigns, or the latest feat of bravery from the "Black Douglas" and Bruce's loyal companions.

In short, a great book, not just from a historical perspective but from an engaging, vivid journey through the life of Robert the Bruce. I must caution the male reader, however, to use more discretion that I did in quoting some of the more graphic scenes to my wife - who wasn't able to appreciate the detail in the same way I did.