"The future has taken root in the present." - Merlin, Excalibur (1981)
Gwendydd is raised under the stern and watchful eye of her chieftain grandfather. as she approaches a marriageable age, her grandsire sends her to the druid Blaise. under Blaise's tutelage, Gwendydd learns the art of healing and falls in love with his apprentice druid Myrddin Emrys, also known as Merlyn.
author Rose Vanden Eynden's novel brings us back to a tumultuous period in 5th century Wales of warring British tribes, invading Saxon armies, superstition, prophecy and magic. she breathes life into the Arthurian myth and legend surrounding Merlin with such eye for detail that every page brims with passion, excitement, danger and enchantment.
told from Gwendydd's point of view, it recounts a segment of Merlin's little known youth and the events that led to the conception of Artorius, the Bear - the one and future high King who would unite the land.
i was fascinated by this book from cover to cover. everything about it exceeded my expectations as well. vivid, rich and well written, this debut novel from a very promising writer is highly recommended. readers who love fantasy, lore and romance in their stories will not be disappointed with this one!
Disclosure of Material Connection: i received a copy of Merlyn's Raven from the author. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.