Keith Durham lives in Northumberland and is the author of multiple titles, including Men-at-Arms 279: The Border Reivers. He is also a skilled and respected sculptor of historical miniatures and has produced master figures for a number of companies including Poste Militaire. He has had a lifelong interest in the Vikings and their ships.

A detailed examination of the Border fortresses involved in raids, or 'reives', on both sides of the Anglo-Scottish border in the 13th - 17th centuries.

In the year 1296, Edward I of England launched a series of vicious raids across the Anglo-Scottish Border in his attempt to annexe Scotland. The Scots retaliated and the two countries were plunged into 300 years of war in which the Borderland became the frontline and raiding, or 'reiving,' encouraged by both sides, became a way of life. Keith Durham examines the Border fortresses, ranging from small, well-defended castles to imposing tower houses, or 'peles,' and a variety of fortified farmhouses known as 'bastles.' He also investigates the many churches that were strengthened against attack and in times of trouble served as sanctuaries for their congregations. Packed with full-colour photographs and detailed cut-away artwork, this is an ideal historical commentary for any tourist visiting the sites that are dotted across the whole of the Border region.