YOUNG MAN WITH A SWORD

A simply dimensioned historical novel is set in Scotland during the seven years prior to the Bannockburn victory by Robert the Bruce, and is centered around the adventures of Gavin Mattland whose father is in an English prison. Gavin is 14 in 1307 when rumors of Robert's return begin to circulate. He and a friend, Murdoch, go to join the Bruce's forces and the seven intervening years, see them grow into men as they help ward off the continuous threats from England. They, as well as their loved ones at home, are instrumental in protecting Scotland from raiders and traitors, and a happy future awaits them all after the victory. Straightforward, but the narrative is written in an unsuccessful vernacular and has little brightening color.