Across a huge colourful canvas, ranging from the wilds of Scotland to Norway, Denmark and Rome, here is the story of the real MacBeth.

Set aside Shakespeare's portrait: read instead of his struggle to make and save a united Scotland.

In this impressively researched and vivid portrayal, Tranter belies the popular perception of a savage, murderous ambitious king. Instead, he tells of MacBeth's struggle to make and save a united Scotland; his devotion to his great love, the young Queen Gruoch; the humane laws they fought for; the great battle they were forced to fight. And the terrible price they paid.