William Wallace's cousin, Father James Wallace, wants to set the record
straight about him. Many have given Wallace a god-like status, and his
cousin, who is a priest, feels that he needs to tell the true story of
the man.
King Edward has wanted control of Scotland for some time. As a result
of his intervention, William Wallace's wife and son have been killed by
English soldiers. Wallace wreaks vengeance. Edward in turn plans to
put down the rebellion and punish the outlaws.
Father Wallace meets Robert Bruce at Turnberry Castle, and there learns
of another Scot prepared to fight the English, Andrew Murray. In the
highlands of Scotland, Murray and his friend, Alexander Pilche have been
causing problems for the English. Bishop Wishart tasks Father James of
informing Wallace and Murray that he wants them to harass the English,
depriving them of supplies for the upcoming winter. He also wants them
to join their two armies and meet the English army at Stirling.
After the victory at Stirling, Wallace comes to the realisation that
Scotland is bankrupt and without a government. Robert Bruce offers his
services as a mentor to Wallace. They quickly find that governing is no
easy task. They call an assembly of Scottish leaders to plan the next
steps.
Can Wallace, Murray, the bishops and Bruce hold the realm together
against Edward of England? Author Jack Whyte has written an intriguing
historical novel about Wallace and those around him as he strove to
protect his nation. A good read for fans of history novels and Scotland.
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