This is the compelling 16th-century story of John Maxwell, Warden of the West March in the days of Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England.
During the 16th century, the Boderland between Scotland and England was something of a world apart, with its own strange laws, beliefs and customs. Young John Maxwell, Warden of the West March, did his best to control a motley crew of dalesmen and mosstroopers from Liddesdale, Eskdale and Dryfesdale among others, and keep some sort of balance with the unruly West March English.
As the turbulent reign of King Henry VIII gave way to the rule of Elizabeth Tudor, John Maxwell - a loyal supporter of Mary, Queen of Scots - inevitably found himself drawn into the wider sphere of the kingdom's affairs. How he fared with Mary's suitors, courtiers and enmies, and his courtship of the beautiful Agnes Herries, forms the fascinating subject of Nigel Tranter's captivating novel.
'Through his imaginative dialogue, he provides a voice for Scotland's heroes' Scotland on Sunday
He has an amazingly broad grip of Scottish history - Daily Telegraph
One of Scotland's most prolific and respected writers - The Times
An accomplished writer of compelling and unforgettable historical novels - She magazine
Through his imaginative dialogue, he provides a voice for Scotland's heroes - Scotland on Sunday
Tranter's popularity lies in his knack of making historical events immediate and exciting - Historical Novels Review
An informative, entertaining read - Daily Examiner
He treats history with respect - Financial Times