Rate this book

Dragon's Child (2009)

by M.K. Hume(Favorite Author)

3.93 of 5 Votes: 2

ISBN

0755348664 (ISBN13: 9780755348664)

languge

English

genre

Historical Fiction

publisher

Headline

series

King Arthur

review 1: Hume takes a new tack on a great old tale. Her's is an earthy-human portrait of Arthur and the other legendary characters, Merlin, Morgana, Uther, Kay, etc. The Afterword describes the impressive research Hume has done in the Arthurian field.So, it was interesting to learn what historical facts there are which Hume used, and which literary traditions she followed and which were rejected and why.It is a great tale, but it is not told with the greatest literary skill. Pieces are very well done, and it kept my interest sufficient to the conclusion, but barely. There is too much dialogue and description and too little action. Much of the story is told by one character to another, rather than actually portrayed. I found myself yearning for more battles and fights and less domes... moreticity. There are scenes which are redundant, and some characters change their attitude toward Arthur or his right to kingship without any reason or motivation. Uther's motivations are not the least believable. Merlin's motivations are confusing. If it weren't for a couple particularly graphic scenes, I'd think the book was written for teenage girls, as much as it dwells on Arthur's muscular body, gorgeous hair, and chiseled facial structure..I listened to it on audio, and the narrator was pretty good, except Arthur's voice -- it was terrible. As a 15-17 year old lad, he sounded like a gruff old man.With it's faults, it is still an impressive literary work and fresh take on one of England's greatest tales.
review 2: I have been a rabid fan of King Arthur and Merlin is my hero ever since childhood. Ms. Hume's take on the legends may be less fantastical than some but her writing and characters are wonderful. I discovered her recently with her Merlin Chronicles which I thoroughly enjoyed. She presents an alternate reality that is consistent with known facts, yet plotting and people created leave no gaps in storyline. I can't wait to read the rest of her Arthur's adventures. less

Download links for: Dragon's Child

Advertising