Somerled: Lord of the Isles explores the life and legacy of one of the most remarkable figures in Scottish and Hebridean history. In the turbulent twelfth century, Somerled rose from obscurity to challenge Norse rule in the Hebrides and forge a kingdom that blended Gaelic and Norse traditions. As a warrior, statesman, and founder of a powerful dynasty, his influence stretched across the western seaboard and shaped the identity of the Highlands and Islands for centuries to come. This book charts Somerled's journey from minor chieftain to sea king, examining the political, cultural, and military forces that enabled his rise. It follows the establishment of the Lordship of the Isles by his descendants, a unique maritime kingdom that endured long after his death. Richly detailed and drawing upon the latest archaeological and historical research, Somerled: Lord of the Isles brings to life a period often overlooked in mainstream history. It is a compelling account of resilience, ambition, and the forging of an identity rooted in land and sea, providing new insights into the man who would become a legend. AUTHOR: Alastair Redman is a Scottish writer and historian based on the Isle of Islay in the Inner Hebrides. He is also a councillor, with long-standing involvement in community representation and rural affairs. Before becoming an author, he worked for over twelve years as a sub-postmaster, managing the Post Office in Portnahaven on Islay. This experience, alongside his public service, has strongly shaped his interest in justice, governance, and the real-world impact of institutional decisions on ordinary people. His writing spans Scottish history, modern British history, and contemporary public affairs, with a particular focus on the Western Isles and other rural communities. He combines first-hand experience with detailed research to produce work that is accessible, factual, and grounded in lived reality. 30 b/w illustrations