Rating: 
Summary: The Bruce
Review: Scott did a marvelous job on this biography of the Bruce and Scotland's turmoil during the Wars of Independence. After seeing the famed epic Braveheart, I noticed that the Bruce was displayed as a betrayer in one scene. As a movie, Braveheart was great, but it lacked the Bruce's importance in late thirteenth century Scotland. Starting with Bruce's birth in 1274 and ending with the death of his revered comrade, Sir William Douglas (The Black Douglas) in 1331. The most well written part was the explanation of Bannockburn in 1314, giving just the right amount of details. I reccomend this book for every history buff or Scotland enthusiast.
Rating: 
Summary: This was the movie to make!
Review: The recent Mel Gibson film, "Braveheart" inspired many, including myself, with a newfound appreciation for Medieval history in general and Scottish history in particular. While the story of Wallace is certainly captivating, the movie did not do justice to the real hero of the period, Robert the Bruce. 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.
Rating:
Summary: An Inspiring Read
Review: This book is very well-written and exciting to read, unlike many books on medieval history. Although the author relies heavily on source material from an epic completed 54 years after Robert Bruce's death, this book vividly brings to life the story of the Scottish struggle for freedom. Bruce's military genius and the Scots' heroic determination to fight against staggering odds combine to form a gripping tale which this reader found impossible to put down.
Rating:
Summary: An Epic Struggle told with facts and a medieval touch
Review: This is definitely the 'definitive' biography of Scotland's greatest leader. McNair Scott tells a tale of triumph, tragedy and terror with accuracy and poise. Robert the Bruce faced incredible hardships during his life- and-death struggle against the English during his motherland's war for independence. One can feel the tension and drama of this turbulent period. The Bruce at one time was about to give up his struggle, until the famous spider in the cave revitalised his spirits by showing him endurance and perseverance.1314 saw the Bruce smash a 25000 invading English army of Edward II with just 5000 men. His personal bravery before Bannockburn,when he put a very experienced English Knight out of his misery, set the tone for the coming battle.For the next 15 years Scottish forces always routed the invaders with Bruce at their head. None of the Platagnet Edwards desired peace, McNair Scott's points this fact out. Edward I infact set the stage for brutality and hatred when he expelled Jews from England by making up false charges against them in the 1280s. This, plus his totally imperialistic and uncalled for invasion of a peaceful country shows his mind.Those who call him the 'English Justinian' should think again.He was very adept at twisting laws for his own purposes anyway. Enough on the villain,and back to our hero.When Robert the Bruce died in 1329 he left behind a modern medieval kingdom, but when Thomas Randolph( arguably one of his best lieutenants) died the belligerent Edward III started the next three hundred some years of fighting against Scotland. Lastly, McNair Scott is on the mark when he says that whatever happened in the years after the Bruce's death and even to this day, the Scots retain a crystal clear memory of Bannockburn and the confidence it gave them , never to desert them again. I would say this book is definitely worth reading about. Not only for those who like Scottish history but those who like true courage and endurance in the face of adversity.
Rating:
Summary: Hero of Bannockburn
Review: This is, beyond a doubt, one of the most outstanding biographies I've read. Mr. Scott ably describes Bruce's life, as well as the events surrounding his assumption of Scotland's throne.
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