Robert the Bruce: King of Scots
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Non Fiction
  • Robert the Bruce - As real as it gets
  • Hail to the King of Scots!
  • Another brave heart...
  • Underdog Wins
Robert the Bruce: King of Scots
Ronald McNair Scott
Manufacturer: Carroll & Graf Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0786703296

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Non Fiction.......2007-09-03

Scott's book is a biographical and chronological account of Robert the Bruce's accomplishments. It is written to be read, as well as studied and is quite well done from that point of view, forming a coherent narrative, or story, if you like, detailing the life of the King of Scots.

An interesting biography.

4 out of 5 stars Robert the Bruce - As real as it gets.......2006-09-12

This is a great biography of Robert the Bruce. Ronald McNair Scott gives a nice full and fleshed out story of Robert the Bruce and his rise to throne of Scotland. Mr. Scott does a great job following Bruce through his Grandfather and Father's initial competition and ultimately his own attempt for the Throne after the deaths of King Alexander and his last remaining heir. Like most noble families in Scotland of the time they had land and family links to England. The Bruce, Balliol, and Comyn families all dynastic ties and claims to the throne but in the end the Bruce family won out. Mr. Scott does uses well known sources for his biography like Barbour, Fordun and Barrow. Of course they glorify all that Bruce does and spends minimal time on his faults. Mr Scott gives us a general bio that is great for the novice to Scottish history and those reading their first book on Robert. There is a lot of personal story here with some supposed quotes to help you feel you are with Bruce when he knights Wallace, accepts the Guardianship, or when he murders his primary rival John Comyn and claims the throne or when he wins his great victory against the English at Bannockburn. But Mr. Scott doesn't stop there. We see him continue to firm up Scotland's independence against Edward I, II and finally III. We get a vivid view of his great Lieutenants, James Douglas and Thomas Randolph. Bruce finally sees peace in "old age" at 55 and dies with a son and grandson to succeed him. But in the end he was a man with all the faults ordinary man and for all he gained he equally paid a price in family, pain and life. After his death the English rise again and his heirs continue the struggle. But that is another story for another book. Robert the Bruce, King of Scots by Ronald M. Scott is the life of the Bruce as history remembers him today.

5 out of 5 stars Hail to the King of Scots!.......2006-07-27

Scott's "Robert The Bruce" is a truly enjoyable and fascinating book. One is shown the growth of the playboy Lord of Annandale to the courageous, self-sacrificing warrior king who risks everything to lead his people to freedom. A chunk of history I was not too familiar with, Scott fills in the gaps and describes the situations and major characters in an engaging manner. Highly recommended!

5 out of 5 stars Another brave heart..........2006-06-02

This is one of the most well written books on Scottish history that I have had the pleasure to come across. Its thoroughly gripping whereas other books about this time period have positvely made my eyes glaze over.
It takes a deeper look at the politics and war of the time and introduces you to Bruce's fascinating followers James Douglas and Thomas Randolph. This book is a must for those interested in history.




4 out of 5 stars Underdog Wins.......2006-04-28

Bruce was born of a royal line, and his father had a claim to the crown. His family held land in both Scotland and England, and therefore was in the aristocracy of both countries.

Only six months had passed since he was crowned King, and now his kingdom had shrunk to a little island six-and a-half miles long and one-and-a-half miles wide. Assailed by English and domestic foe, Bruce hid in a cave, and he and his merry men endured great cold and hunger. It was one of the most colossal gambles in history. Against him were the most powerful nobles of Scotland. He had no knights (except himself), little money, and few horses.

So, who wouldn't want to read a story about a guy with physical strength, cheerfulness in adversity, resourcefulness in danger, brilliance in tactics and strategy, a leader who could animate and inspire all who followed him,a man of great charm and dignity, calm, assured, with a lively sense of humor and a beguiling courtesy?

Tracked by bloodhounds, Bruce stuck to the high country, engaging in guerilla warfare. Bruce proved to be a master of strategic mobile warfare. Within two-and-a-half years the hunted fugitive in the heather was ruler of 2/3 of Scotland.
Rebel King: Bannok Burn (Rebelking: Chronicles of Robert de Brus, King of Scots)
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Should be required reading before attending one of the Scottish Festivals.
  • Absolutely Fabulous
  • A True Masterpiece; Outstanding Work by Wondeful Authors!!!
Rebel King: Bannok Burn (Rebelking: Chronicles of Robert de Brus, King of Scots)
Charles Bruce , and Carolyn Hale Bruce
Manufacturer: Bruce & Bruce, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0972167471

Product Description

The rebellion continues... By 1314, Robert the Brus has waged a guerilla-style war for eight long years to regain Scotlands independence from England. During that time he recaptured Scottish castles, one by one, to make the land inhospitable to the English invaders. His brother agreed to a treaty that will remove Stirling Castle from English control with neither siege nor battle...unless the English king relieves the fortress by June 24th. Roberts hand is dealt. He must meet the English king, Edward II, and his tremendous might on a battlefield south of the citadel, and he knows the winner will take all of Scotland, not just Castle Stirling. In mid-June, King Edward starts the trek north. He has culled knights from among Europes finest and hired them to fight for him with the promises of Scottish lands and titles and great wealth...once the battle is won. Included in his twenty-mile-long train are 22,500 trained men and untold tonnage of supplies and arms. Robert, King of Scots, and his ragtag army of fewer than 6,000 men are the only obstacle in the way of the English kings overwhelming force and sheer determination to enslave the Scots. Meeting on a field of unripe wheat beside a stream called Bannok Burn, the two kings and their armies decide the fates of the generations then standing and their children yet unborn.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Should be required reading before attending one of the Scottish Festivals........2007-05-07

For the non Scot the ability to understand just even a small part of the feisty loyalty of the Scot to the ancient warring clans will make a large contribution to their ability to enjoy a caleigh. My first such event was a source of confusion as I did not comprehend from where all the clan pride and pomp originated from. It was obvious that I needed to know more before I even joined in the second such a session. Now many years later I continue to seek out knowledge from where the fierce loyalty stems from. The series on Robert de Brus provides an enjoyable look in to one of the Scottish historical personages and events that have marked history for centuries. It will continue to so mark history for centuries more and I can recommend all the Rebel King series for the non Scot as well as those of Scottish heritage.

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely Fabulous.......2006-12-20

I thoroughly enjoyed this third book in the series. Excellent character development. I can't wait to find out what happens next! Awesome battle scenes bring you right to the battles of Bannock Burn, you can almost smell the battlefield!

5 out of 5 stars A True Masterpiece; Outstanding Work by Wondeful Authors!!!.......2006-08-05

I've just finished reading this third book in Charles Randolph & Carolyn Hale Bruces' "Rebel King" trilogy. I am at a loss for the proper words to describe this great work! The authors have brought to life King Robert de Brus and his courage, fortitude, and committment to independence for Scotland.

The authors' description of the battle which gained Scotland independence from the English is totally accurate in the historical sense, while giving the reader insight into the character of King Robert, James Douglas, Thomas Randolph, Andrew Stewart, and many others of the brave Scots who fought & died that Scotland might be freed from the yoke of English tyranny & oppression.

The authors also provide, in my humble opinion, very accurate portrayals of England's King Edward II, Hugh le Despenser, the Earls Of Lancaster, Hereford, Clare, and the other main players on the English side.

The description of events leading up to the battle are true to life and form. The battle itself is described in very accurate historical detail, and vividly portrays how King Robert and his close advisors planned and executed the scenario whereby a small (in relative terms) army of patriotic Scots defeated in detail an overwhelming (but ineptly & arrogantly led) English army.

This is a truly wonderful book, in a magnificent series detailing the life & times of Scotland's greatest leader and patriot. I now feel at a loss, I wish the story hadn't ended!! Being of Scottish descent, I had dreamt my whole life that someday a truly great writer would tell this story. The Bruces have done so, and the maps & artwork accompanying the narrative are excellent. I very highly recommend this outstanding work to anyone who likes historical fiction (although the "fiction" is that minimal amount necessary to provide dialogue amongst the characters; all the rest is history and so very true!) and particularly those, like myself, who have Scottish bloodlines (Robertson on my mother's side) and want to learn more about their forebears.

It's too bad there's not a "10 star" rating...I would certainly give it to this book in particular and to the entire "Rebel King" series by these incredibly gifted authors! I certainly hope that Charles & Carolyn continue to produce MORE of their magnificent work on the history of Scotland. I would love to see them do a work (or a set) on the life of James "The Black" Douglas!!! I know it would be as great as this book and series is...truly magnificent reading at it's best. Once you start the story, you cannot(at least I couldn't) put the book down!
On the Trail of Robert the Bruce (On the Trail of)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A Great Travel Guide
On the Trail of Robert the Bruce (On the Trail of)
David R Ross
Manufacturer: Luath Press Limited
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0946487529

Book Description

Here is the astonishing blow-by-blow account of how, against fearful odds, freedom-fighter Bruce led the Scots to win their greatest victory ever in the War of Independence. The trail takes us to Bruce sites in Scotland and beyond, over 70 in all, with fully detailed maps. Elaborate illustrations help set the scene on the Bruce's story, which is one part blood and gore, two parts love and laughter. Ross proves himself a master of writing hands-on history with attitude.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A Great Travel Guide.......2000-06-20

I walked in the footsteps of William Wallace and Robert the Bruce during my visit to Scotland in 1996. I sure wish I had David Ross's book at that time; I would have known of more places to visit. This is a fine book about the history of the Bruce and Scotland's war for independence written, not from a historian, but from a Scot himself.

The book has maps pinpointing the areas discussed in the narrative as well as great illustrations of those places written.

Wallace started the ball rolling for Scotland's independence, but the Bruce wrapped things up. Even if you don't visit Scotland this is a great book to add to your collection.
The Great Scot: A Novel of Robert the Bruce, Scotland's Legendary Warrior King
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Great story, wanted more
  • Flat Retelling Not Worthy of its Subject
  • If you like a good story, you'll like this book!
  • Too much left untold
  • Great Scot, a great novel
The Great Scot: A Novel of Robert the Bruce, Scotland's Legendary Warrior King
Duncan A. Bruce
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312323980
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Book Description

Robert Bruce was Scotlands greatest king ever. The Bruce, as he was known, was crowned King of Scots in 1306, a time when the ancient kingdom of Scotland was under English occupation. When King Robert began his reign, his first two battles were losses. Yet from 1307-1313, The Bruce won battle after battle. He shunned pitched medieval clashes and fought as a guerrilla force, a form of warfare which he may have invented. The war peaked in 1314 when King Robert faced an immense English invasion. With brilliant tactics and resolute bravery the vastly outnumbered Scots defeated and routed the English knights, archers, and yeomen at the battle of Bannockburn. Over the years, three generations of King Edwards went down to utter defeat. The Great Scot is a novel filled with valor, treachery, journeys great and small, all from the pages of Scottish history. This is a stirring narrative that serves as a sequel to the world-wide blockbuster film, Braveheart.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Great story, wanted more.......2006-11-10

Just finished this book on a long plane ride from Europe. I agree with all the critical assessments above. Not greatly written, did not reveal a lot of insight about the Bruce, etc. But I could not put it down. I was interested in "Page Crawford's" story and his outside view of what happened with the Bruce and historical events.
I mostly would have preferred to start the story sooner. In my historical readings and such, I already know most of the events from 1306 on. I am still looking for a good novel on what happened before - what created Robert the Bruce and his quest.
All and all a good read, not a masterpiece, but if you are interested in Scottish history or more directly, Robert the Bruce, you will enjoy and it is a quick read.

2 out of 5 stars Flat Retelling Not Worthy of its Subject.......2005-04-05

Duncan Bruce's "The Great Scot" gets five stars for its selection of a protagonist -- Robert the Bruce. While historical fiction is generally dominated by novels surrounding the largest figures in history (Julius Caesar, Hannibal of Carthage, Elizabeth I, Cleopatra, etc.), some of the greatest joys in the genre can be found in stories about lesser-known-but-worthy figures. Robert the Bruce is such a character. Inheriting a noble struggle for freedom against tyranny from the immortal William Wallace (of "Braveheart" fame), Robert the Bruce succeeded where his forebears failed, and he did so in grand style.

But "The Great Scot" does not carry the day. The narrator of the piece is a young man (David) who, as a lad, becomes the Bruce's page. Inexplicably, the Bruce places a huge amount of trust in the boy, who rises to become one of the Bruce's most indispensable men -- although this rise is explained more by the boy's mere presence and devout loyalty than through any great accomplishment on David's part. So far, so-so. But the style of the narration is flat, methodical, and without much insight. In general, the story is a series of "And then this happened . . ." followed by, "the Bruce said this," and "we were all swayed by the Bruce," and "she smiled at the Bruce." It gets tedious -- even the famous battle of Bannockburn, where the Scots wiped out a much larger English force, is told with little more than a rote recitation of events. David is also not around for many of the key events in the novel, which are told to him by folks who are as incapable of spinning a yarn as our narrator.

When comparing this novel to other recent works of historical fiction -- see, for example, David Anthony Durham's "Pride of Carthage," or Bernard Cornwell's "The Last Kingdom" -- "The Great Scot" becomes more of a tedious slog to the finish rather than an enjoyable trek through a bygone era.

There is little to learn about the Bruce, as well, other than he's a good swordsman, a champion with the ladies, prone to the occasional illness, and a firm believer in freedom. None of these traits are surprising, and the Bruce appears to be much more of a cardboard cut-out of a hero than a true man of greatness (he does not compare favorably to Durham's Hannibal, for example, or with Sharon Kay Penman's Henry Curtmantle, or with the Julius Caesar of Conn Iggulden's "Gates of Rome" series -- or any character written by Colleen McCullouch).

Perhaps I'm being a bit harsh with this review, but I had high hopes for "The Great Scot." And these were not met. For fans of historical fiction set in the British Isles, there are many other more worthy selections.

5 out of 5 stars If you like a good story, you'll like this book!.......2005-01-18

FINALLY a novel about Robert Bruce, one of the most, if not THE most, influential figures in Scottish history.
Fascinated by the life of Robert Bruce since my Scottish grandfather related the the legend of "Robert the Bruce and the Spider" to me as a child, I have been waiting for someone to tell this story. It was worth the wait! If you are a fan of adventure and heroism combined with a bit of intrigue and treachery, this book is for you.
Beginning with Bruce's murder of the "Red" Comyn, a bitter rival for the Scottish throne, the tale only gets better. Narrated by Davie Crawford, a long time aid and confidant, the reader learns of Bruce's early defeats, his decision to wage guerilla warfare against the superior English forces which began to turn the tide, and culminates with his ultimate victory over the English at Bannockburn.
With the immediate threat eradicated, "Guid King Robert" still has to face the danger of more invasions while trying to unite Scotland under his rule. Before his death in 1329 he lives to see peace between England and Scotland, final recognition of Scotland as an independent nation, and Papal recognition of his title as "King of Scots".
I really enjoyed this book.



2 out of 5 stars Too much left untold .......2004-09-23

If you let the first 5 chapters influence you - you won't finish this book. They were bad. After that the story finally picked up and the characters becames interesting enough to finish. I think that this is a first look at Robert the Bruce --and agree with the other reviewer that the man has been unjustly over-shadowed by William Wallace thanks to the movie Braveheart. However, that probably happened because there wasn't a story exciting enough about Robert the Bruce to turn it into a movie...this one isn't either.

What's good about it - the character holds an interesting place in history. There are battle references, there is court intrigue, there are murders and kidnappings and mysterious illnesses and all of the things that keep the story interesting so you plod on. It is a fast read and a simple read.

What didn't I like? Robert suffers from a strange malady that appears from time to time and threatens his life. However, the author discusses it almost as though it were unimportant. You never do find out what it might have been. Also - he paints Edward Bruce as much more of a military tactician and the battles are less than vividly portrayed. He also makes it very clear that Robert the Bruce was a womanizer who had mistresses slug out all over Scotland and was more than ready to use them for food, money and protection ...along with other things...when and ONLY when it was convenient to him. He supposedly loved only one woman in his life....yeah right. If anything this makes him less than valiant and noble in my opinion and the book would have been better with fewer women falling into his bed at every turn -- history certainly remembers him for deeds far more interesting.

Lastly, the author obviously has a good grasp on languages. However, he uses it sporadically and his timing is bad. The characters can go on for pages with all of their conversations recounted in English for the reader. Then suddenly when a very important speech is made the author writes it in some phonetic form of Scots and it stops ALL of the momentum he has built to that moment. You slow down and try to figure out what the speech even was and then suddenly everyone is speaking English again and the story goes on. However, the author does this not only in Scots, but French and Latin as well. There is no rhyme or reason as to which lines of which conversations must suddenly appear in another language - but I think it was a bad attempt to show off his linguistic skills and that it was NOT an enhancement for the story.

I understand it is his first work of fiction. It's not terrible but it's certainly not a 5 star book. I won't keep my copy - it's in the library donation box now. I also wouldn't recommend it to anyone. If you like the subject matter - give it a whirl but wait for the paperback price. If you don't - this probably won't make you want to read more about Robert Bruce. It's been suggested I try works by Nigel Tranter instead and that's what I intend to do.

5 out of 5 stars Great Scot, a great novel.......2004-09-13

I just finished Great Scot, the historic novel of the reign of the Scottish King, Robert the Bruce, written by Duncan Bruce. I found the novel not only well written but very entertaining reading. Mr. Bruce used a third party to tell the story that provided a very intimate viewpoint to a great man's life and times. This third party approach made King Robert and his historic contemporaries and the times they lived in very lifelike. This novel starts and expands on the Scottish freedom story started by Sir William Douglas, the hero of the movie, Braveheart. Also, this is a novel that is full of significant history that is presented as a compelling and integrated background of this great story. I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in a very entertaining novel of a great man. This is truly a great story for all to read.
Robert the Bruce; The Path of the Hero King.
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Robert the Bruce; The Path of the Hero King.
    Nigel G. Tranter
    Manufacturer: St Martins Pr
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover
    ASIN: 0312685653
    Robert Bruce: And the Community of the Realm of Scotland
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • THE book for the study of the Scottish Wars of Independence
    Robert Bruce: And the Community of the Realm of Scotland
    Geoffrey Barrow
    Manufacturer: Edinburgh University Press
    ProductGroup: Book
    Binding: Hardcover

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    3. Robert the Bruce: King of Scots Robert the Bruce: King of Scots

    ASIN: 0748620222

    Book Description

    'The best book on Scottish history ever written.' Gordon Menzies

    The story of how Robert Bruce outwitted Edward I, the shrewd and ruthless King of England, defeated his son Edward II, and in doing so regained Scotland's independence. Professor Barrow describes the dazzling and tragic career of William Wallace, the English military occupation of Scotland that was its consequence, and the emergence of Robert Bruce as the centre of Scottish resistance. The author pieces together from the surviving evidence a vivid and almost day-by-day account of Bruce's daring tactics, his crowning at Scone in March 1306, his defeat by the English three months later, and his life as a fugitive.

    Illustrated with maps and photographs, including a plate section.

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars THE book for the study of the Scottish Wars of Independence.......1998-05-29

    This is the best book for the study of this pivotal period in Scottish History. Barrow is the foremost scholar of the period and this book is a masterpiece. It covers the period from Alexander III's death in 1286 through to the death of Robert the Bruce in 1329, and is both detailed and also very readable. If you only buy one book on the period, this should be it!
    Robert Bruce: Our Most Valiant Prince, King and Lord
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Robert Bruce: Our Most Valiant Prince, King and Lord
      Colm Mcnamee
      Manufacturer: Birlinn Publishers
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Paperback

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      ASIN: 1841584754

      Book Description

      Commemorating the 700th anniversary of the enthronement of Robert I of Scotland, this book is intended as an everyman's guide to Scotland's famous hero king. The life of Bruce is one of the greatest comeback stories in history. Heir and magnate, shrewd politician, briefly "king of summer," and then a desperate fugitive who nevertheless returned from exile to recover the kingdom he claimed, Bruce became a gifted military leader and a wise statesman, a leader with vision and energy. Colm McNamee combines the most up-to-date scholarship on this crucial figure in the history of the British Isles with lucid explanation of the medieval context, so that readers of all backgrounds can appreciate Bruce's enormous contribution to the historical impact not just on Scotland, but on England and Ireland too. It is designed to encourage popular reassessment of Bruce as politician, warrior, monarch, and savior of Scottish identity from extinction at the hands of the Edwardian superstate.

      Peeling back the layers of misconception and propaganda, the author paints an accurate, sympathetic but balanced portrait of a much beloved national hero who has fallen out of fashion of late for no good reason.
      The King's Swift Rider: A Novel on Robert the Bruce
      Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
      • Neither Stunning Nor Horrible, but Good History
      • Scotland vs. England
      • An Okay book
      • A passion for Freedom and a love of Scots
      • A passion for Freedom and a love of Scots
      The King's Swift Rider: A Novel on Robert the Bruce
      Mollie Hunter
      Manufacturer: HarperCollins Publishers
      ProductGroup: Book
      Binding: Hardcover

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      ASIN: 0060271868

      Book Description

      "Are you there--the man they are hunting? Can you hear me? If you can, come quickly to the river, and I will save you."

      Sixteen-year-old Martin Crawford succeeds in rescuing this fugitive--only to be surprised that the hunted man is none other than Robert the Bruce, rightful King of Scots. Hoping to lead a quiet life, Martin instead is asked by the king to commit himself to the war the Bruce is fighting to regain Scotland's freedom from the brutal rule imposed on it by the English.

      The rebel campaign gathers bloody momentum. Martin impresses the Bruce with his resourcefulness and valor, and also learns the elements of espionage. He is proud then to be chosen as the king's swift rider--a vital link in the freedom army's scattered forces. And such is his daring and boldness in this dangerous position that the Bruce later appoints Martin the king's master of espionage.

      Daily now, Martin must risk his life as he secretly gathers the information that will advance the rebel cause--and enable the Bruce to fight the climatic battle of Bannockburn. Defeat there will leave the Scots forever slaves. Victory will mean that longed-for-freedom.

      Based on real events in Scotland's thirty-year War of Independence, The King's Swift Rider is a gripping tale of adventure into which Mollie Hunter weaves her own tribute in history, Robert the Bruce. Unblinkingly, she tells of the terrible bloodshed of that war, yet still makes her story's keynote one of courage, honor, and a people's determination to achieve freedom.

      "Martin." the king told me, "I need a courier."
      A courier? I stopped, wondering if this was a word from the French language spoken by the nobility.
      "A swift rider," he explained. "One who carries messages--in this case, messages of great importance."
      The king's swift rider...I liked this name, liked the ringing sound of it. "If you trust me to act as such, Sire," I told him, "I am waiting."

      Customer Reviews:

      4 out of 5 stars Neither Stunning Nor Horrible, but Good History.......2007-08-19

      The writing style of this book went smoothly enough. I found myself drifting away from the characters once or twice, but all in all, a decent read. There were several nice battle descriptions, but as the main character himself hardly lifted a finger with regard for battle, I had a hard time seeing it as a "key battle".
      Easy to read. Nice historic content.

      5 out of 5 stars Scotland vs. England.......2006-02-11

      Martin at the age of sixteen saves Robert the Bruce, King of Scots from the British and their men. The Bruce needs soldiers for his very small army. Martians mother told the Bruce that he could have Martian and his older brother Sean. Martian doesn't want to fight in any army, so the king has other ideas for him. Martin can read and write. This is very useful for the king. Sean, Martins older brother joins the army and uses his dead fathers spear. There are many battles in this book. The Scots win a lot of them. This rallies up more soldiers just as the Bruce wanted. Martin is sent on spy missions to find out what the British army is going to do or when they are going to attack. The Bruce wants to win this war badly, for his family's sake. His family was killed by the British, and they also took his daughter hostage in a castle. Winning the war also means Scotland's freedom. You will have to read the book to see if Scotland gets its freedom back, or if the Bruce gets his daughter back
      I liked this book because it has a lot of action. There are battles when you have no idea what is going to happen. It keeps you thinking, or wondering what is going to happen. You could expect something to happen but the exact opposite happens. There is nothing that I didn't like about this book. It gets right into action right away and that is what I like.
      I would want someone to read this book if they liked action / war books. Books that have hand- to- hand battles. This book just grab's your attention. I would recommend it to someone that loves battles. Not to someone who wants a book about a pretty pony. This book has some blood or brutal combat.

      4 out of 5 stars An Okay book.......2003-08-05

      Of all action books I read, this was one of the best I have ever read. It is mostly fiction but touches upon history and true facts. It would recommended for ages 13 and over. Probably little kids would not like to read it for all the violence.

      5 out of 5 stars A passion for Freedom and a love of Scots.......2002-12-19

      Although this story is told through the eyes of Martin Crawford, a young Scot in the late 13th century, it's really about Robert the Bruce, King of Scots, and his passionate fight for freedom from England's rule. Many have said that this book's more for boys, but I'm a girl and I loved it, SO THERE! :P It reminds me a lot of America's own fight for independence. If you like historical fiction, Scotland, male heroes, or people with wits rather than brains, then you'll LOVE this book. I know I did.

      5 out of 5 stars A passion for Freedom and a love of Scots.......2002-12-19

      Although this story is told through the eyes of Martin Crawford, a young Scot in the late 1300's, it's really about Robert the Bruce, King of Scots, and his passionate fight for freedom from England's rule. Many have said that this book's more for boys, but I'm a girl and I loved it, SO THERE! :P It reminds me a lot of America's own fight for independence. If you like historical fiction, Scotland, male heroes, or people with wits rather than brains, then you'll LOVE this book. I know I did.
      Bruce, Being the Metrical History of Robert the Bruce King of Scots, Compiled A.D. 1375
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Bruce, Being the Metrical History of Robert the Bruce King of Scots, Compiled A.D. 1375
        John Barbour
        Manufacturer: GOWANS & GRAY LTD
        ProductGroup: Book
        Binding: Hardcover
        ASIN: B000TM2JZI
        The Bruce: Being The Metrical History Of Robert The Bruce, King Of Scots
        Average customer rating: Not rated
          The Bruce: Being The Metrical History Of Robert The Bruce, King Of Scots
          John Barbour
          Manufacturer: Kessinger Publishing, LLC
          ProductGroup: Book
          Binding: Paperback

          AnthologiesAnthologies | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
          GeneralGeneral | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
          British & IrishBritish & Irish | Single Authors | Poetry | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books
          ASIN: 1430494514

          Book Description

          This scarce antiquarian book is included in our special Legacy Reprint Series. In the interest of creating a more extensive selection of rare historical book reprints, we have chosen to reproduce this title even though it may possibly have occasional imperfections such as missing and blurred pages, missing text, poor pictures, markings, dark backgrounds and other reproduction issues beyond our control. Because this work is culturally important, we have made it available as a part of our commitment to protecting, preserving and promoting the world's literature.

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