Publish Date: November 2010
Format: Paperback 567 pp
Synopsis (From the Publisher)
"Among the first to look at the story of Camelot through Guinevere’s eyes, Woolley sets the traditional tale in the time of its origin, after Britain has shattered into warring fiefdoms. Hampered by neither fantasy nor medieval romance, this young Guinevere is a feisty Celtic tomboy who sees no reason why she must learn to speak Latin, wear dresses, and go south to marry that king. But legends being what they are, the story of Arthur’s rise to power soon intrigues her, and when they finally meet, Guinevere and Arthur form a partnership that has lasted for 1500 years.
This is Arthurian epic at its best—filled with romance, adventure, authentic Dark Ages detail, and wonderfully human people."
Child of the Northern Spring brings to life one of the most mystical times in history through Guinevere, the young and intelligent Celtic princess. From the very first page it is obvious that you are in for a captivating retelling of the mysterious Arthurian Legend.
The first half of the book follows Guinevere as she is escorted to the southern country, where she will be united with Arthur and become High Queen. During this time there are many flashbacks which help the reader understand Guinevere's childhood and how Arthur came to win the hearts of the people. While reading of how Arthur came to power was intriguing, it was completely dull while reading of Guinevere's childhood. The parts about her childhood did not seem to hold a great deal of importance and were quickly glossed over. Thankfully, when Guinevere arrived in the southern countries, the plot seemed to take on a livelier pace. The bond between Guinevere and Arthur was wonderful to see and kept the flow of events exciting.
This was my first venture into Arthurian Legend, and I can definitely say I am most enthralled with it! I know what is to come and so I must prepare myself for the sadness, but I am really looking forward to becoming lost in the Dark Ages with all its mystical and dastardly intrigue.
Despite the slow pace of the first half, I was captivated by the second half and I was extremely happy with how Woolley decided to conclude this first book in the trilogy. It might not have been a thrilling adventure, but it is perfect for those who are just starting out with Arthurian Legend.
FTC: I received this book from the publisher. As always, these are my own honest opinions. The first half of the book follows Guinevere as she is escorted to the southern country, where she will be united with Arthur and become High Queen. During this time there are many flashbacks which help the reader understand Guinevere's childhood and how Arthur came to win the hearts of the people. While reading of how Arthur came to power was intriguing, it was completely dull while reading of Guinevere's childhood. The parts about her childhood did not seem to hold a great deal of importance and were quickly glossed over. Thankfully, when Guinevere arrived in the southern countries, the plot seemed to take on a livelier pace. The bond between Guinevere and Arthur was wonderful to see and kept the flow of events exciting.
This was my first venture into Arthurian Legend, and I can definitely say I am most enthralled with it! I know what is to come and so I must prepare myself for the sadness, but I am really looking forward to becoming lost in the Dark Ages with all its mystical and dastardly intrigue.
Despite the slow pace of the first half, I was captivated by the second half and I was extremely happy with how Woolley decided to conclude this first book in the trilogy. It might not have been a thrilling adventure, but it is perfect for those who are just starting out with Arthurian Legend.
