In this acclaimed book, Alistair Moffat tells the story of a part of Scotland that has played a huge role in the nation's history and moved poets, painters and writers as well as ordinary visitors for hundreds of years. The hunter-gatherers, who first penetrated the virgin interior, the Celtic warlords, the Romans, the Northumbrians and the Reivers, who dominated the Anglo-Scottish borderlands for over 300 years, have all had their part to play in the constantly evolving life of the area. It is the people of a place that make its history, and Alistair Moffat's book is a testament to those who have made the Borders their home and who have created the traditions, myths and romance that define it so strongly. 'Quirky, learned and utterly absorbing' – Alex Massie 'Beautifully written, a fine book' – Sunday Herald