Three women, their lives and relationships

Lyn Miller explores the relationship between three women as they support each other through major life challenges. Each chapter is told from the perspective of one of the central female characters – there’s Marion, a single mum and Edinburgh GP; Nyaga, a nurse missing her home in Botswana; and Rose, Marion’s daughter who recently started…

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Historic importance of the Honours of Scotland

Dating back to the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries Scotland’s crown jewels have survived a turbulent past on their journey to the Crown Room at Edinburgh Castle, where they are currently on display. Now the dramatic story of the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny has been updated and revised in this attractively presented…

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When the Romans came to Scotland

For anyone who has an interest in classical history and literature, or in the foundations of Scotland, this book is remarkably insightful. The author describes the Roman presence in ‘Caledonia’ (as Scotland was known then) in great depth. Drawing on literary evidence from the ancient historian Tacitus, Forder works with primary sources while casting a…

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Hamish Macbeth’s 30th case is another success

Hamish Macbeth has an iPad and an espresso machine . But don’t worry, he still doesn’t have a girlfriend. On his 30th outing, we find the laconic Highland detective happy as ever with his pet cat and dog in his beloved Lochdubh. But like Midsomer Murders, it is not long before the bodies begin to pile…

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An interesting guide to Scotland and the Scots

This entry in Winn’s ‘I never knew that’ series sees the author take a tour around Scotland detailing the people that have made this great land what it is. Various luminaries are detailed alongside their achievements and legacies. He also focuses on various well-known families and we learn of notable members of these clans and…

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Changing face of life at the turn of 20th century

From Land to Rail is the memoirs of Andrew Ramage, who worked as a farm servant, dock worker, lorry driver and railwayman during the period 1854 -1917. This fascinating diary-style account of life in the Lothians and Berwickshire sheds light on the trials faced by those working and living in a rural setting. Ramage was…

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Dead Girl Walking presents a new thrilling mystery

Dead Girl Walking sees the long-awaited return of Jack Parlabane. Christopher Brookmyre’s ex-journalist protagonist has fallen from grace and has an investigative job looking for the missing lead singer of a pop group. Brookmyre writes convincingly from both the perspective of Parlabane and Monica (the violinist in the group). The plot is thrilling, tense and…

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A fun tale that will keep the children amused

Still living under the impression that haggis has something to do with a sheep’s stomach? It is Christmas Eve and Acre Valley is in a state of turmoil. Not only have Horace’s woodland friends been abducted from their homes but Angus McPhee is on the hunt for a spicy Christmas starter. Horace the Haggis and…

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The Tobermory Cat is a fun story for children

The Tobermory Cat is the enduring tale of one feline’s quest to fill his empty stomach. Illustration is vivid, with a charming rusticity and acres of pastel illustrations. Besides its educational value, which will help younger readers to become more familiar with counting from one to ten, Gliori’s story is faithful to her setting: full…

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A cookbook interspersed with classic comics

The Sunday Post’s favourite matriarch, Maw Broon, brings us a pleasing compilation of family-orientated bakes to suit any occasion. Interspersed with favourite comic scenes from 10 Glebe Street, these recipes are perfect for those wanting to master the basics and reacquaint themselves with enduring Scottish classics like the delicious Selkirk Bannock or Empire Biscuit. Bake With Maw Broon, published by DC Thomson, £14.99. [review rating=”3″ align…

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