Black Douglas

In fifteenth-century Scotland, a confrontation between the young Stewart monarchy and the immense power of the Black Douglases has become almost unavoidable. When James Douglas, seventh Earl of Douglas, dies, his son William—still a young man—succeeds to vast estates, armed retainers and influence greater than that of any other subject. At the same time James II remains a boy-king on an insecure throne, while ambitious guardians and court factions govern in his name.

William must learn quickly that inheritance on this scale brings danger as well as privilege. Every alliance, marriage and act of vengeance affects the balance between crown and magnate, and the Douglas affinity is alternately courted as Scotland’s strongest defence and feared as a rival sovereignty. As Will attempts to preserve his house amid treachery, clan rivalry and royal suspicion, personal honour is steadily subordinated to political necessity. Tranter follows the young earl towards the fatal reckoning between James II and the most powerful nobleman in the realm.