Amazon.com Review
Upon the death of her father, 15-year-old Ilena realizes that if she is ever to know her true identity, she'll have to solve the mystery herself. Her father, on his deathbed, gives her a clue: "Go to Dun Alyn. Find Ryamen." Grimly determined, Ilena sets out on a dangerous journey through Britain, encountering a handsome liege to the legendary King Arthur, as well as fierce warriors from the north, a grieving king, a healer, a malevolent Druid, and a loyal, resourceful dwarf. She also meets her startling destiny--as heir to the throne of Dun Alyn.
In Patricia Malone's first novel for young adults, a strong, likable heroine emerges. Ilena is both warrior and lady, facing grownup burdens with a girl's tender ingenuousness. Sixth-century Scotland, with its tribal warfare, lavish banquets, and escalating religious conflict between Christians and Druids, is thoughtfully depicted; Ilena's world will be fascinating to young fans of Arthurian adventure stories. (Ages 12 and older) --Emilie Coulter
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From Publishers Weekly
This quick-moving feminist adventure from first-time novelist Malone will captivate fans of Arthurian lore. Set in A.D. 500, in what is now Scotland, the story follows 15-year-old Ilena as she searches for the truth about her family after the death of her father: "I've always known that we belonged somewhere else, that we had come, for reasons I was never told, from a home-place near the eastern sea." Ilena's quest soon leads her to meet a man "pledged to Arthur's table" as well as to her destiny in the land of Dun Alyn: she is heir to a throne. The current ruler's evil henchman wants the throne for his granddaughter and tries to have Ilena killed. Ilena perseveres with the help of a mysterious healer and a smart-talking dwarf, and she finds true love. Despite the expected finish, the suspenseful first-person narration keeps the pages turning. Malone creates an ominous mood and vigorous fight scenes; the heroine's conduct proves continually resourceful. Trained by her father in military arts, Ilena makes a courageous soldier, but remains an innocent in the ways of the world. The juxtaposition makes her a magnetic character; readers will warm to her hardy spirit and rejoice in the happy ending. Ages 12-up.
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--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
