Royal cousins and rival queens put in focus

Elizabeth and Mary: Royal Cousins, Rival Queens is a beautifully edited and printed historical tome was published by the British Library to support an exhibition of the same name. This exhibition will run until February this year – the first to put Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots centre stage. These powerful women…

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The secret lives of plants in our society

We don’t often consider the impact that plants have had on human history, but this book shows how they have been woven into society for centuries. From medicine, through nutrition to murder and construction, there’s a story to be told for all living and growing things. I particularly enjoyed the tale of how the Scottish…

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When composer Mendelssohn came to Scotland

As was the wont of wealthy young gentlemen of the time, the composer Felix Mendelssohn went on a grand journey. This book has a subtitle of The Mendelssohns in Scotland and Italy, and tells how Felix’s journey brought him to Scotland, while his sister Fanny alighted in Italy. Using sketches, letters, paintings and captivating narrative…

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Celebrating the varied wildlife of Mull

You’re probably already well aware of the incredible biodiversity on the Isle of Mull. But if you’re looking for a book that weaves together the animals, landscapes and people of this incredible island, rather than informing you of the wingspan and preferred diet of the island’s resident white-tailed sea eagles, then this might be the…

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A collection of stunning Scottish photography

Each year, a book is published to capture some of the most stunning photography in Scotland. Showcasing striking Scottish landscapes, creative urban views, dramatic weather, seasonal shots and rugged coasts, this year’s Scottish Landscape Photographer of the Year book is truly breathtaking. Each page, curated by Stuart Low – the photographer who launched the The…

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A new book celebrating blended Scotch whiskies

A new book exploring the world of blended whiskies has been released. The International Wine and Food Society has published Exploring Blended Scotch, investigating a topic which the authors believe has not been given the coverage it deserves – the sheer delights of blended Scotch whisky – uncovering many of the hidden treasures of what…

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A celebration of a Clan Chief’s magnificent seat

Finlaystone is a large country estate in Renfrewshire, near Glasgow, seat of the current Chief of the Clan MacMillan. This book, created by six members of the MacMillan family, is the illustrated story of Finlaystone House and its owners – a tale that spans an incredible 30 generations. The impressive house and grounds is one…

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Photographer to share his freezing filming experiences

BAFTA and Emmy award-winning wildlife photographer Doug Allan is set to share insights into his extraordinary experiences filming at the poles. The cameraman who has worked extensively with Sir David Attenborough – will be discussing his captivating book Freeze Frame: A Wildlife Cameraman’s Adventures on Ice. He’ll be appearing at the popular Bookface Book Swap…

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A gripping read that thrills to the very end

Master of crime Denzil Meyrick transports his readers to the urban gangland of the Scottish town of Paisley and the dark underworld of London. Packed with brutal crime, dysfunctional families and dark humour, follow gangland boss Zander Finn on his quest to right his wrongs, only to learn some life decisions can’t be undone. This…

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The Bookish Banksy’s artwork goes to auction

A collection of rare book sculptures, especially created for Scottish Book Trust by an anonymous artist dubbed the Bookish Banksy, are to be auctioned online from tomorrow, Tuesday, 25 January, until Tuesday, 1 February. Book lovers will be invited to place their bids with fine art auctioneers Lyon & Turnbull, which is selling the five…

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