The opening chapter reads like narrative fiction, and I mean that in a good way because the author immerses you in Rob Roy's harsh and adventurous way of life as an outlaw and freebooter in the highlands of Scotland. What I liked best about this book: 1)The bio itself is 189 pgs., which means the author only focuses on the most notable parts of Rob's life, and 2)Tranter isn't afraid to challenge erroneous assumptions of previous writers and historians. At several points he re-examines Rob's actions, often providing fascinating insights into Rob's decisions during several Jacobite uprisings. I'd recommend this for both people who know nothing about Rob Roy and for history buffs alike. Very readable, entertaining, and offers some good insights. Whenever the author delves into the realm of intelligent speculation or guesswork, he's upfront and honest about it.

Rob Roy Macgregor

The romantic figure of Rob Roy looms large in the annals of Scottish history in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Sir Walter Scott's characterisation of him helped create an almost Robin Hood-like figure who rode with his band of Gregorach through Central Scotland forever pressing King William's troops and allies to the limit. He was regarded by many as nothing less than a freedom fighter but by others as a thief, a blackmailer and even as a coward. But much of what he did has been misunderstood. That he was a Highland Gentleman is not in doubt. Born in 1671, the second son of Colonel Donald MacGregor of Glengyle who was imprisoned after the failure of the 1689 rising, he did indeed rise by the age of 20 to command the respect of his clansmen; but the feared Gregorach were, in effect, master racketeers who ran an immense 'mail' operation throughout cattle-rich central Scotland. Without due payment to Rob Roy, a gentleman's herds could 'disappear' under new ownership as the clan stealthily swooped to capture them by moonlight. That this actually served to keep the peace in a lawless land is usually ignored while the benefit to the purses of Clan MacGregor is never doubted. His refusal to join the fray at Sheriffmuir is similarly held against him. He had good reason not to, as Tranter eloquently explains in this book. Furthermore, his clandestine dealings in the political espionage of the day did much to further the Jacobite cause when many were removing themselves from it. Rob Roy's life and times are now the subject of a major motion picture from United Artists starring Liam Neeson and in this entertaining and accessible book master-storyteller Nigel Tranter lays bare Rob Roy's life and reveals the true stature of this legendary rogue.

Rob Roy MacGregor's life as a Scottish folk hero and outlaw is explored, highlighting his role in the Jacobite risings and his complex legacy.

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Rob Roy MacGregor

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