True Thomas

by Nigel Tranter

Little is known about Thomas Learmonth of Ercildoune, vassal and esquire of the Earl of Dunbar, poet and prophesier known as 'Thomas the Rhymer'. During the reign of the Scottish King Alexander III, a time when the sword ruled over all and the treachery of the powerful earls had never been greater, True Thomas became renowned for his extraordinary gift of prophecy—a gift which has echoed through the centuries. In this enthralling novel Nigel Tanter brings him and the wild and rugged times in which he lived to vivid and memorable life.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Scotland

432 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 1981

About the author

Nigel Tranter OBE was a Scottish historian and writer. He was the author of a wide range of books on Scottish castles, particularly on themes of architecture and history. He also specialised in deeply researched historical novels that cover centuries of Scottish history.

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

He was Thomas Learmonth of Ercildoune, a minor laird who was the vassal and squire of Patrick, 7th Earl of Dunbar, a situation he was content with. He kept paper, quill, and ink with him to scribble down anything that came to him though the only writing he really wanted to complete was a translation of Tristan & Isolde into the Scottish language. His superiors wanted more of his prophecies rather than his poetry, especially if he foretold of positive events for Scotland, his monarch , or the Earl. Not much is known of Thomas, other than he he had a small holding with a son, Thomas the Younger who signed Ercildoune over to the church while his father joined the church before the Scottish Wars for Independence. Tranter's speculations make for a good story though.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thirteen in the chronological reading of Tranter's historic novels, the 3rd involving Alexander the Third's reign. Tranter books impart so much information through a story that makes it enjoyable reading.

[Bill Membery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great review of Scotland 's contest with the Plantagents

Good historical story, presented in a readable and intriguing way, showing the social, personal and political life, also the geography of Scotland

[Ishbel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting to read about his second sight