Search results for ""Luath Press Ltd""

These are tough times.Prices spiralling! Climate change! International tension! Pandemics! It’s not hard to find things to worry about.But Scottish grannies can be an oasis of calm. Their wit and wisdom, their compassion and knowhow, their measured good sense and withering reproaches are exactly what is required.Scottish grannies are reassuring. They are relevant. And they need to be heard.

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One long walk divided into lots of short walks taking you all the way round Skye's rugged coastline. Skye's plethora of peninsulas and sea-lochs contain awesome cliffs, remote beaches, storm tossed sea-stacks, natural arches, ancient duns, romantic castles, poignant Clearance settlements, tidal islands and idyllic secluded corners. If you want to experience Skye in all its fascinating wealth of popular tourist haunts and hidden treasures, then let this book take you on a continuous 360-mile coastal walk around this mythical black island. You will soon find that there is a lot more to discover than the celebrated Cuillin ridge, mecca for walkers and climbers from all over the world. Andrew Dempster took one month to walk the whole coastline, he describes not just a geographical journey along the intricacies of Skye's coastline but also a historical journey from prehistoric fortified duns to legendary castles, from the distressing remains of black-houses to the stark geometry of the Skye bridge.

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The Company of Scotland was established by an act of parliament. It planned a colony that would announce itself in a founding declaration, and govern itself by a set of rules and ordinances. These were the founding principles of a new society. Together with basic ideas and practices in economics, politics, religion, medicine, navigation and law, these principles were tested to destruction. They are presented here as The Fundamentals of New Caledonia - an historical fiction of a new world.

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In its short lifetime of 100 years, the crofting system of landholding has had profound effects upon Scotland. In this book, the author presents vivid descriptions of crofting life, past and present, in a deeply-researched social history.

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A modern day Edinburgh solicitor tracks down a document relating to Scottish identity and nationhood on the Isle of Bute. This opens up a new dimension to the nature of Scottish statehood. The author uses this as a vehicle to ask penetrating questions.

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Mystery surrounds the murder of Sir Lachlan MacLean, an impoverished Highland laird. With bad debts, family quarrels, and shady associates, Sir Lachlan had many enemies. But while motives are not hard to find, evidence is another thing entirely. Lawyer John MacKenzie and scribe Davie Scougall turn investigator to try to track down the murderer.

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A collection of poetry on the themes of motherhood, empowerment, love and loss by acclaimed poet who has published three collections previously.> Drawing on her Indian and British life experience, Fraser engages with hard-hitting current issues such as rape culture in India, climate change and war. A son questions his mother’s love after she has learned about his violent deeds. The biblical Eve is shown as a liberator. A daughter of India demands justice from her society.

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This is a brilliant and creative rendition of The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy translated into Scots by Matthew Fitt. Discover the very special book that has captured the hearts of millions of readers all over the world. 'A wonderful work of art and a wonderful window into the human heart' Richard Curtis A book of hope for uncertain times. Enter the world of Charlie's four unlikely friends, discover their story and their most important life lessons. The boy, the mole, the fox and the horse have been shared millions of times online - perhaps you've seen them? They've also been recreated by children in schools and hung on hospital walls. They sometimes even appear on lamp posts and on cafe and bookshop windows. Perhaps you saw the boy and mole on the Comic Relief T-shirt, Love Wins? Here, you will find them together in this book of Charlie's most-loved drawings, adventuring into the Wild and exploring the thoughts and feelings that unite us all.

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The Bay City Rollers were one of the brightest things to happen in the tumultuous 1970s, illuminating a dark decade marred by falling stock markets, a plummeting economy and industrial unrest. Alan Longmuir, an apprentice plumber from Edinburgh, was inspired by The Beatles to form a band in the 1960s. Firstly, he enlisted his brother and then his cousin and via throwing a dart at a map they eventually became the Bay City Rollers. Success was slow in coming but when it did it was beyond Alan’s (and almost everyone else’s) wildest dreams.A string of million selling records led to Rollermania – a mass-hysterical fan reaction not seen since Beatlemania. Like a wildfire it spread across the world. The Rollers’ juggernaut was out-of-control. Alan Longmuir recounts his surreal journey from the Dalry backstreets to the Hollywood hills and back to being a plumber. Along the way he punctures some of the myths and untruths that have swirled around the group. Most of all, though, Alan captures the great adventure that a bunch of young boys from Edinburgh embarked on that for a few years threatened to turn the whole world tartan. Tragically, while finishing his memoirs Alan Longmuir was taken ill while on a holiday in Mexico marking his 70th birthday and died back in Scotland a short while later. It was his great desire that I Ran With The Gang should be released.

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‘You will look after them for me, my poor orphan children.’ Domenica could not hold back the tears. ‘I will Mamma, I promise, do not worry about us. We will be alright.’Picinisco, Italy 1945: the war may be over, but for Domenica and her family the struggle for survival carries on. Dealing with the cruel legacy of the battle of Monte Cassino, a now parentless seventeen-year-old Domenica finds herself bound by a promise to care for her 5 younger siblings. Will she be able to provide for them as food grows scarce? Will she hold the family together? Will this promise cost Domenica her own future with the man she loves? A fictionalised account of real events, Domenica weaves a rural tale full of home truths in the idyllic Abruzzo Apennines. Through a single shepherding family and its strong-willed eldest daughter, Serafina Crolla exposes the human cost of war beyond the battlefield in a poignant depiction of love and grief, pain and union.

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Timorous: adj, 1) shy, not bold 2) easily frightened. Economics: n, social science concerned with the production and consumption of goods and services. What is the best way to run a country? How long should a person be obliged to work every day? What will the economy look like after Brexit? In this new take on the Scottish economy, experts Trebeck, Boyd and Kerevan address how our economy can serve us, as opposed to the people serving the economy. They believe that current economic policies are not aligned with what we as people need in these times of rampant inequality and inequitable distribution, advocating an increased focus on the quality of Scotland’s economy. Using Scotland as an example for the economic workings of any country, Tackling Timorous Economics shows a better way of how economics could work for us.

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McHardy presents a new approach to history, changing our mindset to look at Scotland as the centre of our story. Rather than starting from the Mediterranean, from the classical/Christian bias we have been taught for centuries. Rather than being a remote dark land populated by barbaric tribes. Perhaps we were the centre of a well-organised civilisation around the Orkneys and islands and coasts and rivers, with our own priorities, community-centred, locally self-sufficient, well-versed in lore of all kinds.Who were/are we? The great centres of ritual in Orkney, Lewis and Kilmartin suggest an indigenous population much more sophisticated in terms of social ritual and communal rule than we have been led to believe. In whose interest is it that we accept the classical/Christian version of history relayed to us by monks? These are some of the questions McHardy addresses in a passionate and accessible style. Read and become more Alba-centric in terms of what we see as important to research, study and understand.

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The East Highland Way is a detailed and descriptive guide to the route developed by Kevin Langan in 2007. Beginning in Fort William and culminating in Aviemore, the trail forms a new link route between the northern end of the West Highland Way and the southern end of the Speyside Way. In addition, the route joins with the Great Glen Way at its southern point in Fort William, making this a new challenge for seasoned walkers and amateurs alike. Not only an illustrated route description, Langan also details the plethora of wildlife to be spotted along the way in each section of the walk. The book also provides information on the various historical attractions with which the route intersects, including Old Inverlochy Castle and Kingussie’s Ruthven Barracks. Langan’s route has been optimised to engage with accommodation where possible, and these accommodation options are included in the guide.

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Think the Munros are too difficult? Think again. Meet Baffies, the entertainments convenor of the Go-Take-a-Hike Mountaineering Club. Named after his footwear of choice [Baffies is a Scottish word for slippers], he is gifted in the art of finding the easiest way up any given mountain. This is the second in the Baffies’ Easy Munro Guide series of reliable rucksack guides to some of the more easily tackled Munros. Twenty-five routes, each covering one main Munro, all with detailed maps and full colour throughout – this lightly humorous and opinionated book will tell you everything you need to reach the summit.

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Scottish Family Legends is a treasure trove of true tales written by people from all over Scotland. These stories were collected by Scottish Book Trust as part of a nationwide project to encourage people to get writing, inspired by their remarkable relatives. These tales recall lives domestic and military, urban and rural, work-a-day and extraordinary - but never boring! Bursting with drama, heartache, celebration, character, warmth, gratitude, love and loss, Scottish Family Legends is a celebration of the people, places and events that make up our collective heritage - it is truly a book to be treasured.

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This witty and diverting book, from musician and whisky expert Robin Laing, captivates the reader with folklore and history reflecting aspects of Islay life, all relating back to whisky. Simultaneously entertaining, comforting and informative, Laing uses narrative and lyric to examine the relationship between the islanders of Islay and whisky. When grouped together as a whole, the various anecdotes, poems and songs beautifully illustrate the importance that whisky plays in the lives of the people of Islay, but also of how it has shaped their history.

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Winner of the 2007 Costa award, this title continues the story of Gussie, a precocious young girl diagnosed with a rare heart condition. Despite her health problems, she is determined to live life to the fullest, experiencing typical adolescent woes such as love and strained relations with her parents. Never complaining, she offers a direct and honest insight about herself and the world around her, bringing this poignant, charming and oddly optimistic tale to life.

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Symptoms: the initial signs of a problem. Diagnosis: analysis of the problem.Treatment: suggested solutions. Henry McLeish, former First Minister of Scotland and Tom Brown, one of Scotland's leading political commentators, are joined by eminent psychologist Anne Ellis as they follow on from their politically provocative Scotland: the Road Divides by putting Scotland on the therapist's couch. They assess what in our past has led to a present nation that is such a strange clamjamfry. Light and dark, brash but with a constant chip on its shoulder, Scotland's Jekyll and Hyde nature is shown to have had led to serious social and political problems including anti-social behaviour, and borderline or real poverty. The first part of the book asks us 'tae see ourselves as ithers see us' and the remainder deals with how Scotland should see itself. It asks the difficult question: Scotland - who are we? We ourselves are typical Scots, conscious that we have our fair share of the flaws examined in this book. Recognising our failings is the first step... We warmly encourage readers - be they policymakers or otherwise - to engage in these issues. In this complex modern world there are no easy answers. But we have to keep asking the questions. - TOM BROWN and HENRY McLEISH

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Sir James the Good, one of the finest soldiers Scotland ever produced, is sometimes better known by the name given to him by the English - the 'Black Douglas'. He terrified the northern shires of England throughout the reign of King Robert the Bruce and the Wars of Independence. When Robert the Bruce died Sir James, as his champion, was entrusted with his heart which he carried on the Crusades. David R Ross brings history alive as he tells the story of Sir James' life. Ross' research found him retracing Sir James' journey to the Holy Land and rediscovering battle grounds, providing a personal view of history. With a refreshing look at the subject, and featuring all new information and research, interesting maps, battleplans and photographs, this book will make Scottish history accessible and understandable for the casual reader, while delighting history buffs.

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First published in 1896, The Game of Golf is the long awaited reprint of the first ever golfing book by golf professional. It is a golfing classic and collectors' item. Straight from the man who brought golf from Scotland to the world comes, this comprehensive guide is to playing golf. Every aspect of playing, from selecting equipment to proper swing and grip, is explained in detail beside the opinion and tips of the successful nineteenth century golf champion, Willie Park Junior. Written over a century ago, this commentary reveals the finer details of the game and original techniques that can still be applied today. It includes a helpful glossary and diagrams and illustrations. The history and art of golf are revealed here. It is a great gift for golf enthusiasts everywhere!

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Considering the history of these organisations, their members and influence in their respective locations, they note the changing nature of Scottish culture as it flourishes amongst international diversity. Written as a series of specially conducted interviews with each chapter, a new location and new organisation Wherever the Saltire Flies investigates many and varied personalities.

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The film Braveheart had a surprising impact on the political change in Scotland, coinciding with the return of the Scottish Parliament after 300 years. The film was described as 'the most politically influential movie of the 20th century'. 'Better the pen than the sword' said Randall Wallace on being asked how it felt to be partly responsible for the freedom of a nation following the Devolution Referendum. The first written about the movie, this book looks at the life and legacy of William Wallace through his modern portrayal image in the movie.

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Containing practical advice for visitors to what was once termed the 'Forbidden Isle', this comprehensive guide brings to the reader an idea of Rum's history, geography and geology, fauna and flora and culture.

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Based on her hit Allotment Tales column for "The Scotsman and New Consumer Magazine", Antonia Swinson - the First Lady of the allotment - shares, not only her tips for gardening and allotment management, but also the effect of her time spent in the mud. Written with humour and vim You Are What You Grow is her extraordinary original vision of how the world ticks. Scything down the caricature of the allotmenteer, this is a social and political critique from an allotmenteer's point of view. Antonia explores issues such as the history of British land ownership, organic produce and self-sufficiency, community building and the psychological benefits to be found by allotmenteering. The work is divided by season with gardening tips, money saving ideas and promotion of healthy, and organic food.

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Spending seven months in Orkney to delve into the secrets of the islands, Richard Clubley was keen to get as many local views as possible.He gathered interviews with lighthouse keepers, farmers, archaeologists and climbers – and many others! On dreich afternoons during the short days of winter, Richard ate home bakes with locals and recorded their memories. It was at one such hearth that someone said, ‘You know about so-and-so of course, you come to Orkney all the time, so how could you not know?’. Richard didn’t know.While there are still a lot of unearthed stories hidden in Orkney, Richard has collected a fair few in this beautifully illustrated book.Richard Clubley loves Scotland’s islands, but it is Orkney that has stolen his heart. In this book, he portrays the northern Scottish islands fairly and honestly, with stories that even Orkney locals may not have heard before. Travellers from elsewhere will be charmed by Richard’s descriptions of the Orkney landscape and way of life.

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An ancient way of life. Living with nature and the seasons. Moving from high mountain to plain. The cleanest air and water, the purest food and wine. A little girl tells the story of her last year at home high up in the Apennines of Italy. The love of her family and neighbours. The conviviality and shared purpose of her tight knit community. The beloved grandmother she will leave behind as her parents head for the factory floors and restaurant kitchens of 1950’s Edinburgh. An immigrant’s tale but also a record of a simpler life. At one time negated and cast aside and now more than ever sought out and admired. The Wee Italian Girl is a document for many Scottish Italians who, apart from picturesque villages and majestic mountains wish to really know from whom and where they came.

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The Missing Scotland by Willie Sullivan. 3rd in the Open Scotland series

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From the award-winning author of four other books for young adults comes Runners, a fast-paced novel set in the near future, in a world almost unrecognisable as our own.

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Think the Munros are too difficult? Think again. Baffies' Easy Munro Guide is the first of a series of reliable rucksack guides to some of the more easily tackled Munros.

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When the Romans came north to what is now modern Scotland they encountered the fierce and proud warrior society known as the Picts, who despite their lack of discipline and arms, managed to prevent the undefeated Roman Army from conquering the northern part of Britain, just as they later repulsed the Angles and the Vikings. A New History of the Picts is an accessible true history of the Picts, who are so often misunderstood. New historical analysis, recently discovered evidence and an innovative Scottish perspective will expose long held assumptions about the native people. This controversial text contests that Scottish history has long since been dominated and distorted by misleading perspectives. A New History of the Picts discredits the idea that the Picts were a strange historical anomaly and shows them to be the descendants of the original inhabitants of the land, living in a series of loose tribal confederations gradually brought together by external forces to create one of the earliest states in Europe: a people, who after repulsing all invaders, merged with their cousins, the Scots of Argyll, to create modern Scotland. All of Scotland descends from the fierce Picts.

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Transforming Aeschylus' timeless epic Agamemnon into Scots, this groundbreaking translation transports readers into the heart of ancient Greece, infusing the classic tale with the lyrical beauty and cadence of the Scots language. William Imray's masterful rendition captures the essence of the original while breathing new life into the narrative, making it accessible to modern audiences and lovers of Scots literature alike. For scholars, students and enthusiasts of classical literature, this edition offers a unique perspective, shedding fresh light on familiar themes of power, betrayal and destiny. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of Aeschylus or a newcomer to his works, Aeschylus' Agamemnon in Scots promises an immersive reading experience that transcends language barriers and invites exploration of the human condition.

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Embark on an enchanting odyssey with The Eight Moon over Rubh' na h-Achlais leis na bord dubh by award-winning writer Angus Peter Campbell. This captivating tale unfolds on a picturesque Scottish island, introducing you to Jack whose journey takes an unexpected turn.Venture south as he temporarily leaves the highlands behind, enticed by the allure of southern comforts. However, the call of his roots is undeniable, prompting him to return on a quest that will shape not only the landscape but also his own identity. Mystery unfolds around a hidden treasure in his homeland, with twists that will keep any reader on their toes.Discover the importance of highland connections, as the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of heritage, identity and the enduring bonds that tie us to our roots.The Eight Moon over Rubh' na h-Achlais leis na bord dubh is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the significance of preserving one's cultural ties.

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Step into the thrilling world of historical crime with A Case of Desecration in the West, the sixth instalment in the gripping John MacKenzie series set in late 17th-century Scotland. Join investigative advocate John MacKenzie and his witty sidekick Davie Scougall as they embark on a riveting journey to Glasgow and the opulent Hamilton Palace.Unravel the mystery surrounding the drowning of Bethia Porterfield in the Avon Water. Was it a tragic accident, suicide, or something more sinister like murder? What secrets lie behind the desecration of a Quaker burial ground near Hamilton, and what connection does it have to the clandestine Cadzow Kiss, a forbidden club meeting in the ruins of Cadzow Castle? Prepare for a rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue as MacKenzie and Scougall navigate the treacherous waters of deception. A Case of Desecration in the West is a journey into a cesspit of dark secrets that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

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‘This is like a scene from Apocalypse Now’ Archie Macpherson examines the story of football’s most explosive rivalry - Celtic v Rangers. In this book he centres on the infamous riot at the Old Firm Scottish Cup Final at Hampden on 10 May 1980, at which he was the match commentator, and which resulted in the banning of alcohol in football grounds. He explores his memories of the many clashes between the two clubs over his half-century broadcasting career. This leads him inevitably to the sources of the sectarianism which has characterised this fixture and the West of Scotland. He weaves his experiences, and those of others, into the complex tapestry of social issues and club loyalties and takes us through the wider political context: World War II, the invisible hand of Margaret Thatcher and Scotland’s independence referendum. This vitriolic conflict is more than a game. It is a kaleidoscope of bitter dispute, and occasional violence, and Archie Macpherson provides a colourful insight into how it was to live with the Old Firm for over five decades.

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This is a book about identity, self-determination and self-making; about energy; about that vibrant surge that forces us forward in life, to seek the new and the possible, come whatever. In a series of honest, often humorous and brutally frank essays, Anne Pia discusses sexuality, gender identity, reluctant feminism, and food as a sumptuous, sensual game-changer. She conveys her exhilarationat the transformative power of music and learning, clothes and fashion. She gives an unflinching account of coming to terms with a daughter’s disability. This life-changing book shows how positive energy can be drawn from life’s most challenging experiences. Anne asks the central question: ‘Who am I and who do I want to be?’ and invites the reader to do the same.

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In his newest publication, Storer concentrates on the history of the Corrour Bothy. The book tells the story of the oldest and most famous bothy in the world, celebrating a century of public use in 2020. The book blends guidebook entries with historical accounts. Through guidebook entries between the years of 1928 and 2019, Storer outlines bothy life, the history of the Highlands, of hillwalking and of climbing and thereby provides a portrait of the past 100 years from a unique perspective centred on the Scottish Highlands.

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Combining architectural history with travel and tourism, and featuring around 300 buildings Robin Ward’s Exploring Edinburgh features the best of what Edinburgh has to offer. It gives a comprehensive and well-researched account of Edinburgh’s architecture through a collection of walking tours so readers can truly engage with the city.

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Living your life against the odds. Through the voices of Malawians The Spirit of Malawi is a first-hand account of daily life in Malawi. It also examines the big issues that affect us all, but Malawians more than most: climate change, the global economic divide and digitalisation. It looks beyond the clichés to consider what life is really like for 18 million people born into a national economy less than a quarter of the size of Edinburgh’s.

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Singers, politicians, a fish-gutter, queens, a dancer, a marine engineer, a salt seller, sportswomen, scientists and many more – Quines celebrates and explores the richly diverse contribution women have made to Scottish history and society.

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Selected for the Scottish Book Trust’s Scots Language Grant introduced to mark the UN’s International Year of Indigenous Language, Doors Tae Naewye is a new poetry collection by one of Shetland’s finest poets written mostly in Shetlandic Scots.

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Scotland in 1688 – a nation bitterly divided by religion and politics where the King’s pro-Catholic policies have unleashed the sectarian hatred of extreme Protestants.Edinburgh is a powder-keg, packed with plotters planning revolution. The mob is on the High Street each night burning effigies of the Pope and causing mayhem.When a nobleman is assassinated by a Catholic fanatic, Protestant anger reaches fever pitch. Lawyers John MacKenzie and Davie Scougall must investigate the killing, but their relationship is tested as never before when they find themselves on opposing sides of the political divide.To make matters worse, a killer is stalking the stinking streets; a disciple of revolution; a butcher in the name of God; a pilgrim of slaughter.

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Dà Shamhradh ann an Raineach is a historical novel written in Scottish Gaelic. It is set in 18th century Edinburgh and rural Perthshire, 20 years after the Battle of Culloden, a time of rapid social change and development in areas such as medicine, printing, the Church, the Gaelic language and agriculture. The novel is based on the facts that are known of the life of Dugald Buchanan, the poet and schoolteacher who made a major contribution to the first translation of the New Testament into Gaelic from the original Greek. He oversaw the printing of the New Testament in Edinburgh in 1767, the same year in which his own book of Spiritual Songs was published. These poems were to become enormously influential throughout the Gaelic speaking world. The greater part of the novel describes the last two years of his life and is narrated by his wife, Margaret. She outlived him by over 40 years and was in a position to look back over the tragic events which had struck the Buchanan family. As a result, the story ultimately becomes her own as much as that of Dugald.

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This book weaves in all the reasons why the residents of Scotland love to live here; landscape, beautiful scenery, an air of mystery and the great history of the land. Thompson conveys Verne''s deep fascination with Scotland and takes the reader on a journey with Verne from his beloved Heart of Midlothian to exploring in the Highlands. This book also explains how Verne''s love for Scotland flooded into his literature. Jules Verne, pioneer in the science fiction genre, wrote world- famous books including Journey to the Centre of the Earth and Around the World in 80 Days. His literary legacy is still celebrated today, his books have scarcely been out of print and have spawned a host of films and TV adaptations.

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Peter MacNab takes the visitor on a tour of these two accessible islands of the Inner Hebrides, considered to be the centre of Celtic Christianity. Born and grown up in Mull the author has an unparalleled knowledge of the island and throughout this book he shows the reader the true Mull and Iona.

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A book about Scotland drawn from hundreds, if not thousands, of stories. From the oral traditions of the Scots, Gaelic and Norse speakers of the pat, it presents a new picture of who the Scottish are and where they come from. The stories are hilarious, tragic, heroic or frightening.

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This text is an illustrated story of Scotland''s hero-king and freedom-fighter. The text follows the life of Robert the Bruce from boyhood onwards, with a blow-by-blow account of how he led the Scots to their victory at Bannockburn, against all the odds.

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Featuring over 100 sketches, Drawn to the Edge gives a visual tour of the Outer Hebrides, one of the most remote parts of Scotland. Lewis and Harris are known for their harsh and stunning landscapes, and Barber has captured these simply and beautifully.

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‘In many ways, being a fashion model can be compared to the life of a professional footballer. You might get signed, but the work doesn’t stop there. In fact, it’s only just begun.’ Interested in working in the fashion industry? Do you want to be a model, designer, photographer or stylist? Want a rare look at the industry from the inside? Supermodel Eunice Olumide MBE was signed when she was just 16. She has since graced catwalks all over the world, working with top design powerhouses including Christopher Kane, Harris Tweed, Alexander McQueen, and Mulberry. How to Get into Fashion is for you, whether you are looking to become a model or wish to pursue one of the many other careers in fashion – or just want to know what goes on behind the scenes. With stunning photographs and the knowledge of someone who’s been there and done it, this is your essential guide to the industry.

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