Book Review: Child of the Northern Spring by Persia Woolley

About the Book:

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.

About the Author:

As an only child born during the Depression, telling myself stories became my chief form of entertainment. In college I chose to study Architecture rather than English, however, and it wasn't until I was in my 30s that I began to make my living with words, first in public relations, then as a critic and reviewer, a TV writer, producer and interviewer. Was also a print journalist before settling into writing books.

I am what's called a 'euhemerist'--a person who believes that legends begin with real people doing something in real time which then gets embroidered through generations of retelling into iconic form. Approaching legends this way gives me a chance to indulge my love of research, human nature, word-smithing and creative play. Happily, my readers seem to enjoy the results.

My Opinion:

I have to state up front that I love all tales Arthur. This book takes a new look by telling the legend from Guinevere's point of view. How refreshing! It was such a delight to meet her as a young girl, then a strong young woman riding out to meet her fate with questions and a bit of disquiet at leaving all she knows.

The book is written in such an easy way I found myself lost in the story; lost in time. I found that I really enjoyed getting to know this Guinevere. Most times when reading of Arthur Guinevere is an adjunct to him rather than her own person. In this book, the first of a trilogy, she is definitely as in charge as she can be.

I am very much looking forward to the next books so I can follow her adventure. It will be interesting to see how Ms. Woolley writes of Lancelot and all that befalls Camelot from Guinevere's point of view.

Child of the Northern Spring is available at Sourcebooks.
Child of the Northern Spring is available at Amazon.com














Disclosure:  I received a gratis copy of Child of the Northern Spring from Sourcebooks. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by my receipt of the free book. I received no monetary compensation for this post.