Helpful Score: 2
Hmm. This is a very interesting book about a very confusing region and period of history, namely, the Scotts-English borders. The thing is, its probably the best thing for the casual historian about the era of the Border Reivers, on both sides. Its got a good overview and doesn't descend into side bars, but the history is complex, and at times the book goes recursive on it, referencing events early on then giving the details later. This is further complicated by a vast cast of characters, many of whom use recycled names, plus a lot of nicknames.
Anyway, was it good? Yeah. For me it was a long complicated read, hindered by a lack of maps, timeline and cast of characters, but still good. Why? Well, I get the impression that a lot of SF writers (Drake, Stirling - I'm looking at you) steal from this period and region for their works. Its good to go get the source materials (which is at least as interesting).
I'd suggest it to fans of English and Scotts history and the SF fan that wants to see where some of the SF authors get their ideas. I may give The Reavers a shot, if I can find a copy.
Anyway, was it good? Yeah. For me it was a long complicated read, hindered by a lack of maps, timeline and cast of characters, but still good. Why? Well, I get the impression that a lot of SF writers (Drake, Stirling - I'm looking at you) steal from this period and region for their works. Its good to go get the source materials (which is at least as interesting).
I'd suggest it to fans of English and Scotts history and the SF fan that wants to see where some of the SF authors get their ideas. I may give The Reavers a shot, if I can find a copy.
