Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832) was a popular Scottish historical novelist and poet. Scott was the first English language author to have international popularity during his lifetime. His novels remain popular today. His most famous works include Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, The Lady of The Lake, Waverely, The Heart of Midlothian and The Bride of Lammermoor. The Fortunes of Nigel falls in the middle of the Waverely series. First published in 1822 The Fortunes Of Nigel follows Nigel Olifanut and his attempts to redeem a heavy mortgage on his estate. As with many of Scot's novels there is a young inexperienced hero, a modest lady, and legal and financial themes. The setting is the period of King James I.