Born in a colony world in 2310, Lawrence Newton hankered after the golden era of starships exploring the galaxy. But the age of human starflight was drawing to a close, so this hot-heated teenager ran away from home in search of adventure. 20 years later, he's the sergeant of a washed-out platoon taking part in the invasion of another world.

From Islay to Orkney, from Scotland to Ireland, and from Japan to New Zealand, this fourth edition incorporates a helpful rating system for each malt's sweetness, peatiness and availability and a new guide to cost, as well as sections on 'historical' whiskies and on regionalisation.

In a bid to uncover the unique spirit of the single malt whisky, author Iain Banks has decided to undertake a tour of the distilleries of his homeland. His tour of Scotland combines history, literature and landscape in an entertaining and informative account.

This A-Z reference to single malt whiskies includes a detailed description of each malt, accompanied by the author's personal tasting notes. There is a directory of all the major distilleries and their products, information boxes and easy-reference symbols.

The ultimate work of historical reference