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jaceyThe is the bittersweet story of Medraut, high king Artos' bastard son, born of an incestuous relationship with his sister Morgause. Medraut, ostensibly Morgause's godson, returns to Britain after travelling in Africa and settles in Artos' court where his younger half-brother Lleu, fragile, unskilled and afraid of the dark, is Prince of Britain, Artos' heir. Even Lleu's twin sister, Goewin, seems more suited to rule.
Medraut is educated, intelligent, self-reliant and capable and his medical knowledge (learned in Africa and also from his 'godmother' Morgause) sets him apart. Time and again he helps Lleu to overcome his physical problems and improve his confidence and swordsmanship, yet all the while he is torn by jealousy and the desire for Artos' approval.
When Morgause comes to visit he saves Lleu from her scheming and warns Artos, but still events conspire to drive him into her clutches and to fall in with a plot which could cost Lleu's life.
This is a beautifully written, elegant book. It's a personal narrative by Medraut addressed specifically to Morgause, which doesn't become obvious until he tells of her visit from his own point of view, when suddenly he's talking to, 'you, mother'.
This interweaving of myth and legend with complex characterisation and layered familial relationships is compelling reading. Highly recommended.
Medraut is educated, intelligent, self-reliant and capable and his medical knowledge (learned in Africa and also from his 'godmother' Morgause) sets him apart. Time and again he helps Lleu to overcome his physical problems and improve his confidence and swordsmanship, yet all the while he is torn by jealousy and the desire for Artos' approval.
When Morgause comes to visit he saves Lleu from her scheming and warns Artos, but still events conspire to drive him into her clutches and to fall in with a plot which could cost Lleu's life.
This is a beautifully written, elegant book. It's a personal narrative by Medraut addressed specifically to Morgause, which doesn't become obvious until he tells of her visit from his own point of view, when suddenly he's talking to, 'you, mother'.
This interweaving of myth and legend with complex characterisation and layered familial relationships is compelling reading. Highly recommended.
