21 of 22 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Highest Recommendation, February 27, 2002
I recently discovered that I had somehow misplaced this book. Thankfully I am able to purchase another via Amazon.com--or, at least, that is the game plan. As such, this is the reason why I presently find myself at this place, and for no other reason I have decided to place my thoughts here for you review.
Now, if you are reading this, I presume you are considering reading/purchasing/obtaining Mr. Godwin's novel. Let me give you a bit of advice. It is simply the best retelling of the Arthurian legend I have come across. Moreover, it is not only one of the best novels I have read, but one of my favorites. I rank it along with Herbert's Dune, McCullogh's The Grass Crown, Steakley's Armor, Heinlein's Starship Troopers, Forester's Mr. Midshipman Hornblower, Niven's Ringworld, and LeGuin's A Wizard of Earthsea--all old time favorites.
To be sure, others may have a different view. But let me give you more to think about.
You should note that this book has received a number of awards--though I am unable to name a single one at this time. You will discover their identity when you get your copy of the book.
I have read this book every two years since I first picked it up in the early 1980s. While my copy is regrettably quite dog-eared and now mysteriously lost, it maintained a proud place in my library.
My knowledge of the Arthurian legend stems from what I consider to be an extensive review of literature on the genre. I even took a class on the subject way back when in college through my alma mater's Arthurian studies department (yep, they actually had such a thing--though I pursued aero/astro engineering). It was the only book the professor recommended, which gave me a rewarding feeling for I had already read it several times before hearing such.
I rank this book as an exceptional novel and give it my highest recommendation. It is a rare find indeed.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of my favorite all-time books., October 30, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: Firelord (Paperback)
This book is a must read for any fans of Arthurian myth, Parke Godwin, or just Wales itself (I happen to like all three). All the characters, from Artos himself to Lord Trystan of Castle Dore, are given new depth, character, and emotions. A remarkably realistic look at the 'history' that might have caused the myth. As Godwin says, it might not be what happened, but it's what could have, and what should have.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
ONE OF THE MOST RIVETING ARTHURIAN BOOKS EVER!, January 20, 1997
By A Customer
This review is from: Firelord (Paperback)
Not only is the position taken by Godwin, "I, Arthur, King of the Britons, ... want to write of us the way we were," a thoroughly intriguing guide to the approachable side of the legendary King, but Godwin's skill with words is sheer brilliance. Godwin's prose makes so much poetry look anemic. _Firelord_ has the battles, the love stories, the magic, the history, the characters -- all things that are the heart and soul of Arthurian legend. This book will be the cause for hysteric laughter, broken sobs, dramatic contemplation, and absolute tension during the thrills of the chase, as it were. If I were only allowed to own one Arthurian book this would be it [my apologies to Mallory et al.]. -- Camala M. Rya
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you? Yes
No
