Product Description
It is a generation after the fall of Camelot. The legendary figures of Britain’s brief but shining renaissance—Arthur, Lancelot, Guinevere—are gone but not forgotten. Their memories live on in song and story. But Arthur’s dream of a united Britain is fading fast. The hard-won alliance of independent kingdoms is fracturing. Sensing weakness, defeated enemies are returning.

Such is the world of Tristan, Prince of Lyonesse. Born with the soul of a poet and the heart of a warrior, Tristan has been pushed aside by his uncle, Markion, who is determined to succeed King Constantine. Because he shares Markion’s dream of restoring the faded glory of Camelot, Tristan supports his Uncle’s claims to the High King’s throne, against the better judgment of his friends.

Markion dispatches Tristan as his trusted agent to fetch his new bride, the daughter of King Percival. As soon as Tristan sets his eyes on the beautiful Essylte, and Essylte sees the handsome Tristan, a fateful love blooms between the two young people, a love that knows no law but its own fierce and imperious demands. Now, torn between duty and desire, Tristan and Essylte will risk everything—their lives, their souls, Britain itself—to be together. . . .

This powerful tale of love, betrayal, and redemption has echoed down the ages. Acclaimed author Nancy McKenzie brings it stunningly to life for a new generation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

written
I like this era in Literature--all of the books were wonderful reads. I would recommend them to anyone who likes the age of knighthood.

You may not understand this review if you don't know the story told within
I don't know why, but I tend to get stuck on some stories and search for every book written about them. I obsess over Elizabeth I's relationship with Robert Dudley, faithfully search out tales about and of Sharazard, and lately, I want to know everything about Tristan and Isolde. That's why I picked this book.

This is the story of doomed young love. Tristan, a young knight whose birthright to the high throne of Britain was taken by his Uncle (with his help actually, he gave it up) is sent by the same Uncle (Mark) to fetch his bride from Wales. She is fifteen and will marry over forty Mark. Her name is Esselte.

Of course-you know the story. This is a pretty good re-telling of it but for a few details-the poisoned sword wound that Tristan received is just stupidly healed and treated. Tristan has a gay Uncle (nothing wrong with that) who lends nothing to the story but pops up now and then. Esselte's mother is absurd in her hatred of Esselte and Branwen's actions-she delivered the love potion to our lovers and then agrees to sleep with Mark secretly in Esselte's place-are confusing.

This book has also fallen to a classic mistake that comes with retelling this story. Mark of Cornwall is stupid, mean and downright evil at times. This is supposed to be a triangle of love, respect and duty between a devoted nephew, a wife doing her duty and a king. Instead Tristan constantly bemoans that he cannot save Esselte from the evil Mark. Clearly he could have at any time. His excuse of it taking down the British alliance is stupid-Mark's own actions in this book cause that.

In short the romance in this book is far better than in the other version I read recently, the White Raven by Diana L. Paxton, who focused solely on Branwen's tale. But it's still not very romantic. This book is also far better than Rosalind Miles series-which I'm sorry but was so boring I almost died.

I have to say that the recent movie did a far better job of making three likable characters for the triangle, and the dialog was perfect-not too sappy romantic stuff-but real words from people in a horribly desperate situation.

On its own this book gets 3.5 stars, but I'm still looking for a novel retelling of this story I can love. Who knows, maybe I'll just write it myself.

Never approaches the glory of her previous books
Queen of Camelot is one of my favorite pieces of modern Arthurian fiction- I absolutely loved it. Though I actually prefer how the story was originally published, as two separate books (The Child Queen and The High Queen) which were later consolidated into one volume and some slight changes made.

I therefore was prepared to love this book, as the tale of Tristan and Isolde is one of my favorites.I can't even begin to explain how very disappointed I was as I struggled through this book.

It literally was a struggle to finish.I think the crucial difference is that in Queen of Camelot you truly get to know the characters- they have depth, and life, and you feel as though you know them personally and become very invested in what happens to them.In Prince of Dreams, that depth is very much lacking.She skips from place to place and shoots forward in time so often than you never feel as though you are watching them live their lives; you're just skimming through a summary.

Which is why, to me and obviously to others, Essylte often comes across as a whiner.I didn't care about her because I knew virtually nothing about her- she was just a shell, and her problems didn't touch me at all.The children (who are arguably the biggest victims of circumstance) are treated very dismissively, so it's hard to care about them either.Tristan has a bit more warmth and depth and we spend more time with him, but he doesn't manage to save the book as his nature- self-destructiveness and all- isn't explored and he generally ends up coming across as just being selfish.

The only real interest stirred in me at all was caused by Branwen, Essylte's maid (among other things); I spent a good portion of the book anticipating her next move and wondering what surprises she might have in store that might not necessarily follow traditional tellings of the story.

All in all, a very disappointing read from an author I expected greater things from.I'm sure that many people will be able to read and enjoy it, but after the richness and depth of Queen of Camelot, this book falls far short of my expectations.

A Fresh New Perspective on Tristan & Essylte!
It would seem the story of Tristan and Essylte would be a much told, tired story by now.However, this author puts some new twists on the old legend and breathes life into its characters.The fates are against these two lovers from the beginning but they try to make a valiant showing throughout the book.Essylte's maidservant, Branwen, is not what she seems and she brings about many of the circumstances Essylte and Tristan endure.King Markion, who is now high king of Britain is Tristan's uncle and wishes to wed the Welsh Princess to bring unity to Britain.Unfortunately, his scope is very limited and Tristan and many others only support him because there is no one better to do so.Except for Tristan, of course, however, he does not desire the high kingship, only Essylte, someone he is never destined to have.

It is a wild ride with much intrigue and many interesting twists that will keep the reader enthralled from beginning to end.I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in "The Matter of Britain."

Destruction in slow motion...
Don't get me wrong.Nancy McKenzie's prose evokes a distant time.You can hear the storm pounding against the castle walls, smell the blood of Saxon battles, and feel the anguish in Tristan's heart as he longs for a woman he loves but cannot have.And yet...despite the beauty of the language and the vivid characters, I felt a mounting frustration with the doomed Tristan and Esseulte.

These are not an English set of Romeo and Juliet.The Shakespearean lovers only destroyed one other person besides themselves.Tristan and Esseulte manage to destroy friends, family, unborn babies, and kingdoms by their obsession with each other.They refuse to give the other up despite numerous separations, yet neither one will sacrifice all their supposed obligations to other people to be together.It is this refusal to totally commit that involves others in their destructive orbit.Tristan comes off as poetically self-destructive while Esseulte whines.

If you like your romances large in scope and filled with doomed lovers, then you may enjoy this book.Otherwise, it may be an exercise in screaming frustration. ... Read more

Product Description
“Guinevere comes alive–a strong, resourceful, and compassionate woman, accessible to modern folk . . . McKenzie makes a quantum leap in defining the character of Guinevere as a real, flesh-and-blood woman. The Arthur-Guinevere-Lancelot triangle comes alive as well–believable, poignant, and bearing the seeds of tragedy.”
–KATHERINE KURTZ

On the night of Guinevere’s birth, a wise woman declares a prophecy of doom for the child: She will be gwenhwyfar, the white shadow, destined to betray her king, and be herself betrayed. Years pass, and Guinevere becomes a great beauty, riding free across Northern Wales on her beloved horse. She is entranced by the tales of the valorous Arthur, a courageous warrior who seems to Guinevere no mere man, but a legend. Then she finds herself betrothed to that same famous king, a hero who commands her willing devotion. Just as his knights and all his subjects, she falls under Arthur’s spell.

At the side of King Arthur, Guinevere reigns strong and true. Yet she soon learns how the dark prophecy will reveal itself. She is unable to conceive. Arthur’s only true heir is Mordred, offspring of a cursed encounter with the witch Morgause. Now Guinevere must make a fateful choice: She decides to raise Mordred, teaching him to be a ruler and to honor Camelot. She will love him like a mother. Mordred will be her greatest joy–and the key to her ultimate downfall.

Return to a time of legend–the days of Guinevere and Arthur and the glory that was to become Camelot

... Read more

Customer Reviews (58)

Mesmerizing, Compelling, and Beautiful Story
"Queen of Camelot" by Nancy McKenzie, is an absolutely fabulous retelling of the classic Arthurian legend (and in my opinion history, not legend), told through the eyes of Arthur's beautiful, Queen Guenivere.The story is a summary of Guenivere's life, beginning at her birth, and continuing until she matures into a beautiful woman who has been faced with many challenges including death and heartache.

I rate my books on a scale from 1-5.Old favorites like "Little Women" and "War and Peace" fall into the 4 category.Those very special, once-in-a-lifetime books are reserved for the 5 category."Queen of Camelot" is one of those books.Humorous yet touching, it has all the aspects that a good novel should own.It is also one of the strongest books that I have ever read.At one point I even threw my Kindle down because I was so angry at one of the characters.Upon completing the book, I burst into tears.The ending is extremely depressing, but the journey through Guenivere's life story is what makes it all worth it in the end."Queen of Camelot" is an amazing and compelling story that can be enjoyed by anyone, and I would recommend to all, from those interested in King Arthur's story to those who are just looking for a good book.

WARNING:"Queen of Camelot" is a very graphic novel and deals with many "adult" subjects such as incest.I was eleven when I read "Queen of Camelot" for the first time last year, and I learned lots of new "stuff".DO NOT NOT READ THE BOOK BECAUSE OF THIS!If you are a young adult like me, then I would recommend having your parents edit the book before you read it.I doubt many teenagers will take this advice, but it's much better to shield yourself from the trash and ask your parents about it, than learn about it from a book (even a good book).

And for all the Arthur geeks out there like me, another great novel to explore is "Le Morte d'Arthur" by Sir Thomas Mallory.Or you might consider "The Arthur Trilogy" by Kevin Crossley-Holland.They are both great reads.

Enjoy!!!

Loved this book!!

I was highly impressed with "Queen of Camelot" having always been disappointed with other authors' portrays of Guenevere and especially of Arthur's son Mordred. Here Gwen is an intelligent woman, who is an equal to Arthur in statesmanship and in love. Mordred, my favorite character in the Arthurian legend, is treated with dignity and respect and is truly Arthur's beloved son and rightful heir. McKenzie weaves a beautiful retelling, with new insight, and added interpretations that will please you. The ending especially will surprise and move you as to how and why Mordred and Arthur finally meet in battle.
If you are looking for a good and in depth novel of the Arthurian tale through a woman's perspective, look no further! "Queen of Camelot" will not disappoint.

Swept me away!!
This novel swept me away into Arthurian legend. The month previous to reading this, I read The Mists of Avalon and did not like it at all!!! But I was still intrigued by the story, so I starting reading this book! This is soo much better than M of A!! I cried in the end! Gwen is a queen you grow to respect and I just LOVE King Arthur in the book. He is amazing! So much better than Lancelot! I also really enjoyed getting to know Mordred a lot better. This book is truly thrilling and keeps the pages turning even though I basically knew the outline of the story! I will forever recommend this book to friends and I am looking forward to the next book in the series!

Pleasantly surprised
My best friend practically bribed me to read this book when we were college freshmen in 2003. I kept putting her off, but by March of that year, I just gave in. I have no idea why I resisted in the first place. I am a very slow reader, but I finished this book very quickly, and it has become my favorite book of all time. The Grail Prince, the sequel, is my second favorite book. I highly recommend both. I have read Queen of Camelot every March since that first time--now 6 times--and enjoy it more and more. I will continue to read this book for years to come. It's different and the characters come alive for the reader. I really can't say enough about it. Go read it!!!

For lovers of the Arthur Legend
If you crave Arthurian stories, then you got to read this one!! It's an excellent book and fleshes out the queen's side of this old, old story. Nancy makes her characters come to life. While you know the ending, you don't want to put the book down. This is the 1st of a series and deals with Guinevere's side. The other two books (Gawain & Tristin) are also very good and each book can be read by itself ... Read more

Product Description
The second book in the Chrysalis Queen Quartet, starring the young Guinevere.

Much has changed over the last few months in Gwynedd, but Guinevere is still uncertain where her future lies. She recently made the unsettling discovery that she has been guarded all her life by a pagan tribe who believes she is destined to save them—they believe she and the great king will one day wed. But this prophecy is so at odds with her inferior position in the castle as Queen Alyse and King Pellinore’s lowly ward, she can’t believe it’s true. Now more complications arise as Guinevere and her cousin accompany Alyse and Pellinore to a meeting between Welsh kings, presided over by one of the High King Arthur’s knights. While there, Guinevere discovers she has a powerful enemy: King Arthur’s sister, Princess Morgaine. But why would Morgaine hate her?

Guinevere is tumbling into her destiny in ways she never imagined, and she may soon have to face the prophecy with new eyes. . . . ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
Guinevere is still struggling to come to terms with the prophecy given at the time of her birth; a prophecy that foretold Guinevere would one day be wed to a great king and be the highest lady in the land.

She's also trying to come to terms with the young man the ancient tribe appointed as her personal guardian. As a ward of Queen Alyse and King Pellinore, she is invited to join them and her cousin, Princess Elaine, as they travel to a meeting of the Welsh kings.

Here Guinevere meets King Arthur's sister, Princess Morgan. Unfortunately, Morgan seems to hate Gwen on site and uses her power and influence in an attempt to destroy Guinevere through the people she cares about.This puts Gwen's tribal guardian, Llyr, in danger, and she will risk everything to save him.

In GUINEVERE'S GAMBLE, McKenzie introduces the infamous Morgan le Fay and also Merlin to her readers. As with the previous installment, Ms. McKenzie gives these old (and much written about characters)new life and makes them her own while still remaining true to the legend.

GUINEVERE'S GAMBLE is the second book in THE CHRYSALIS QUEEN QUARTET and a marvelous companion to the first book, GUINEVERE'S GIFT.

I loved reading more about Guinevere's journey toward her future and I am anxiously waiting for the third book.

Reviewed by:Joan Stradling

Surprising enjoyable
I'm not entirely sure why a 62 year old man is being sent review copies of books for teen-aged girls, but it keeps happening.My first reaction was, "Oh great, another Arthur book..."

This story however was very enjoyable.Guinevere is only thirteen years old, and in that gawky "ugly-duckling" stage.As the protected ward of King Pellinore, she has little control over her future, but things keep happening.In the previous book, the tomboyish Gwen discovers that she has been protected by a local hill tribe of pagans.Adventures follow.

In this book, she is taken to a parley of fractious Welsh kings presided over by Sir Bedwyr (Bedivere) and meets both Merlin and Morgaine, who hates her on sight and tries to poison peoples opinions of her.

Guinevere is growing up, there is a weird prophecy following her, her younger cousin Elaine is wrapped up in romantic foolishness, and once again Guinevere's grit and cleverness make everything work out.

The book was a fast read, but captivating for all that.Recommended. ... Read more

Product Description
The Childless Queen

The prophecy spoken at Queen Guinevere's birth had been fulfilled. Guinevere reigned strong and true, at the side of her beloved King Arthur. Together, they had forged a legendary kingdom, and its fame would live forever. Yet there had been a dark side to the prophecy, and the white shadow of fate ever hung over the Queen.

Now Guinevere thought she knew what that shadow was: she was barren. She accepted that -- just as she accepted that Arthur must have an heir And the only true heir of his body was Mordred -- offspring of a cursed encounter with Arthur's own sister, the witch Morgause.

Guinevere couldn't give Arthur her own child, so she would give him his own son: Mordred. She would raise the boy, teach him to be a king. He would be like Arthur -- wise, coolheaded. He would honor Camelot and all it stood for. She would love him like a mother.

He was to be her greatest joy, and her greatest despair... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (28)

Acompelling and spellbinding read
Nancy McKenzie makes for relaxed reading while bringing alive the true magic, colour and drama of Arthurian legend, and exploring the hearts and passions of Arthur's beautiful and captivating Queen Guinevere who captures the hearts of so many men at Camelot.

In the second of two magnificent novels, Guinvere, unable to conceive agrees to raise Arthur's son Mordred born from a cursed encounter with Arthur's sister the evil sorceress Morgause.
As she raises Mordred to love him like son, he will eventually be the seed of her destruction. Meanwhile she struggles with her agonizing love for Lancelot as McKenzie creates high drama and narrative from this ill fated love.
And of course the shadow of the great and terrifying Merlin always hovers over all.
The total effect creates a compelling and spellbinding epic which serves as an imposing example of the author's enthusiasm for her subject.

A Good read
The High Queen continues the story of King Arthur from Guinevere's point of view. This story exactly mirrors the stories of Mary Stewart it is just looked at through different eyes. In book 1- The Child Queen is also a must read prior to this second and final book in the series.

Ending is a mess
I enjoyed The Child Queen very much.Fairly standard Arthur fare.The High Queen was in much the same vein, and was enjoyable until the end.Unfortunately, McKenzie decided to make Mordred noble and likable.Then she had to figure out how to make this noble and likable character fulfill the prophecy of killing his father.The ending made no sense compared to the rest of the book - it just seemed like a slapstick comedy with horrible results.

Queen of Camelot
I recently read the combination of Nancy McKenzie's two books, The Child Queen and The High Queen, and until recently the stories by Persia Woolley were my all-time favorites.This book is incredible.I have read this book 3 times, because it is always a wonder to me how the characters grow and the times change.The first time I finished it, I cried and was melancholy for days.This book so completely depicts all of the characters, I easily and immediately felt a part of Camelot and a part of this story.I cannot recommend this book highly enough!

One of the greatest books I've ever read!
Where do I begin? The High Queen is a moving and powerful sequel to the awesome book The Child Queen.I am an avid reader of fantasy books, especially those based on Arthurian legend, and these have to be not only among the best, but probably the most emotionally-charged.Both books are the basic Arthurian legend as told by Guinevere, but be warned, there are a few twists, (not giving anything away), Nancy McKenzie presents her own Mordred, one who is much different from the evil bastard son most may expect.I adore Ms. McKenzie's Arthur, he is portrayed here as the great man of legend, a man who will truly bring peace and justice to the world, while at the same time the reader is forced to fall in love with Lancelot, just as Guinevere does.The true beauty of this book is that as Guinevere struggles with her love for both Arthur and Lancelot, the reader does too.WARNING: The ending of this book is so powerful, I finished it at 4 in the morning and just sat and cried my eyes out.This is the first and really the only book to really make me CRY.At the end I really cared for each of the characters and almost couldn't bear to have it all end.Even knowing the legend and what happens could not prepare me for the ending Ms. McKenzie created.I was truly moved. Please read this book and it's companion, The Child Queen.If you like novels based on Arthurian legend, fantasy books, or would like to try something new, try these.You won't be sorry, I promise! ... Read more

Product Description
The story of a love and a treachery that would live for all time. Guinevere and Arthur. Lancelot and Merlin and Morgan Le Fay -- all the names of myth are given flesh and blood in this Del Rey Discovery of the Year book!
... Read more

Customer Reviews (63)

Full of adventure, passion, intrigue and emotion.
An extremely engaging book, full of adventure, passion, intrigue and emotion.
Engages the reader evey step of the way.
It traces the early life of Gunievere , who would be Arthur's bride, from her birth to the king and young queen of the Kingdom of Northgallis, where a witch predicts the night of her birth that she would live to be the greatest lady in Britain, but also that she would betray her king and herself be betrayed.
What is unique about this retelling of the Arthurian legend is the deep emotional and pyschological depth of her subjects.
It is the best Arthurian retelling I have read.

Growing up in north Wales, to be a great and engagingbeauty , together with her cousin Elaine, her life is turned upside down when she is chosen as the bride of the High King of Britain, Arthur.
Guinevere's love for the King's most trusted knight, Lancelot causes her great pain. Her cousin and childhood friend Elaine, turns into a deadly rival, who out of jealousy because it was Guinevere who became Arthur's bride, will do anything to hurt Guinevere.

Included in this sagaare others in Arthurian legend such as the King's adopted brother Kay, Arthur's half-sisters Morgause and Morgan , the battles with the invading Saxons , and the various kingdoms in Britain in the time.We read of Guinevere's abduction by the thuggish minor king Mwelas and her rescue by Lancelot. McKenzie did her research well, while introducing an exciting take on the world of Arthur and Camelot.

Don't be fooled
I had to read this book years ago for an English class. I begged and begged the teacher to change his mind because this book was listed as a romance novel. I am extremely thankful he said no.
The Child Queen, and its sequel, The High Queen, tells Arthur's story through Guinivere. This book, though relatively short, managed to engulf me with its settings, characters, and stories. Listing it under romance is a serious injustice to this book.
After reading both novels, i quickly got my hands on as many Arthurian novels as possible. There is no way a terrible book can cause a lifelong love.

Guinevere's Point of View
I love this book.When read with the sequel, The High Queen, a whole new view of Arthurian legend is provided.It is a wonderful book!If you like Arthurian legend, this is a beautifully woven tale full of the romance in other books.At the same time, the alternative view is a new way to look at the story.

The Child Queen Grows Up
I would recommend "The Child Queen" to not only lovers of Arthurian legend, but to people who like strong characters as well.McKenzie's Guinevere is a real and vivid protagonist.Guinevere is not a Barbie doll, but a true ingenue... a woman that you could believe would capture the hearts of many men and especially one that would be worthy of King Arthur.This story has a lot of depth and you feel the emotions of the characters as if they were your own - I have read this book at least three times and I am not tired of it yet!Well Done!

The best book in the world
I loved this book, I read it five times in one week.I am dieing to get my hands on the second one. This story is focused mostly on Guinever. I cant describe this book, you have to read it for yourself.But I promise you it will be one of the best books you have ever read. ... Read more

Product Description
On the night of Guinevere’s birth, there was a prophecy that foretold she would one day be highest lady in the land and wed to a great king. But 13 years have passed, and the prophecy couldn’t be further off. Guinevere is now an orphan and a ward of her aunt and uncle, the king and queen of Gwynedd. Tomboyish and awkward, Gwen is no great beauty, and nobody takes the prophecy seriously–especially not Gwen.
But then one day Gwen meets a strange young man in the woods who claims to be part of an ancient tribe whose mission is to guard and protect her. Then she stumbles across a sinister plot brewing within the castle walls–one she alone might be able to prevent. Guinevere is beginning to realize her destiny is more complex than it seems–and this is only the beginning. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Courtesy of Teens Read Too
At the time of her birth, a prophecy foretold Guinevere would one day be wed to a great king and be the highest lady in the land. Guinevere herself refuses to believe this will be so.

After all, she's thirteen years old and an orphan living at the mercy of her uncle and aunt, the king and queen of Gwynedd. She prefers riding horses to more feminine tasks, and it would be unlikely a great king would look twice at her boyish figure.

When Gwen discovers an ancient tribe, she learns they not only accept the prophecy as truth, but they have been guarding her all her life. Guinevere is no longer sure what to believe. In the midst of inner turmoil, she uncovers a sinister plot against her uncle and aunt that threatens not only their lives, but the lives of the ancient tribe, as well.It's up to Guinevere to unravel the plot and save the lives of those she loves.

Though the characters presented in these books are well known and loved by many, McKenzie is able to give them new life and has made them her own while still remaining true to the legend. The reader is introduced to Guinevere as a young girl before she even meets Arthur, and this is a wonderful side to see of the future queen.

This is the first book in THE CHRYSALIS QUEEN QUARTET, and Ms. McKenzie does a fantastic job of introducing this new side to the legend of King Arthur. GUINEVERE'S GIFT is a great beginning to what is sure to become a series of books loved by fans of Arthurian legend.

Though I know how the story ends, I loved the beginning of the journey as seen through the eyes of the girl who will be queen.I look forward to seeing how Guinevere and the other characters grow toward their destinies in GUINEVERE'S GAMBLE, the second book in the series.

Reviewed by:Joan Stradling

An excellent leisure read for middle school readers
Nancy McKenzie's GUINEVERE'S GIFT tells of an orphan and ward of an uncle and aunt who is tomboyish and unlikely to become the queen prophecy has foretold. Guinevere's discovery of an ancient tribe whose mission is to protect her uncovers a castle plot, a mystery, and possible ancient powers at work in the land in Book 1 in the 'Chrysalis Queen Quartet'. An excellent leisure read for middle school readers.

Good Start
This first book in a four part series gives a glimpse at Guinevere's everyday life starting aroung age 13. She is an obstinate tomboy who is intent on doing the (morally) right thing even when it goes against her aunts wishes. We see Guinevere grow through her daily escapades, her adventures to rescue those she loves, a seemingly fortuitous meeting with a young boy from a hill tribe, and her eventual understanding of her aunt's strict rules.

Although the writing and characterization are not as good as in McKenzie's previous novels(hoping these will develope with the series), this is a good book with a fast paced story line. It will keep you hooked. She has kept her target audience (YA) in mind while writing so this book has no great romance; it is not a saga with a heartbreaking ending. The story actually takes place over a few weeks.

Anyone, YA or otherwise, who has a love for Authurian tales or historical ficton will enjoy any of McKenzie's writing. Happy reading =) ... Read more

Product Description
The author of The AIDS Reader presents the issues dominating the national debate on health care, from ""emergency room gridlock"" to ""pay or play,"" in an anthology of essays offering policy suggestions and options for reform.10,000 first printing. ... Read more

Product Description
The wheel is turning and the world will change. . . .And a son of Lancelot, with a bloody sword and a righteous heart, shall renew the Light in Britain before the descent of savage dark. . . .

So spoke the Lady of the Lake. Now her grim prophecy is coming true. King Arthur lies dead, struck down along with Mordred, his son and heir, and the greatest knights of Camelot. Of that peerless company, only Lancelot survives, a broken man who has turned his back on Britain and his forbidden love of Guinevere. Yet one knight, scarcely more than a boy, fights amid the ruins to keep Arthur’s dream alive: Galahad, the son of Lancelot.

Before his death, Arthur swore the young knight to undertake a quest: a search for the scattered treasures of an ancient king. On the recovery of these powerful relics–a grail, a spear, and a sword–hinges the future of Britain. But it is the past that torments Galahad. He cannot forget or forgive his father’s betrayal of his king. Nor can he banish thoughts of the intoxicating Dandrane, sister of his friend Percival, from his mind. Yet only a man pure in heart can fulfill the prophecy of the Lady of the Lake.

Not since The Mists of Avalon has an author so brilliantly reimagined and brought to life the enduring Arthurian legends. Weaving back and forth through time, from Arthur’s mighty reign and commanding influence to Galahad’s ultimate quest to preserve the destiny of a nation, The Grail Prince is an unforgettable epic of adventure and romance, of clashing swords and hearts set in a magical world as deadly as it is beautiful.


From the Trade Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Rich, intoxicating page turner - in the best modern novel series on Arthurian legend
I think that Nancy McKenzie is the best modern day novelist of Arthurian legend.
I thought Queen of Camelot was fantastic, and Grail Prince is just as wonderful, in this rich, intoxicating page turner.
This one takes up the narrative of Galahad, son of Lancelot King of Lanescol, who Arthur has chosen to find the Holy Grail, and the the redeeming spear and sword as the only way that Britain can be saved.
Galahad is absorbed by his hatred of his father who he believes to have cruelly treated his mother Elaine. He bears a hatred of Guinevere, who he see's as a wanton seducer and enchantress. His bitterness against his father and Guinevere have been planted by Elaine and the evil priest Aidan, who, unknown to Elaine, aims to destroy Lancelot and his family.

His quest is covered in various books with a shifting timeline, beginning with his journeys with his best friend Percival , Prince of Gwynedd and shifts to Galahad's childhood.
Later we follow his journey filled with people he meets and learns from, and his quest helps him to learn the truth, and see through his misguided contempt of women, lack of a merciful heart and bitterness, as well as to reunite him with his beloved Dandrane, who he has cruelly betrayed. Galahad slowly sees what his father has experienced, as well as the truth about Guinevere.
An enthralling page turner, focusedmuch human nature and relationships, although the struggle against the invasion of Britain by the Saxons is also a part of the richly descriptive tapestry. Galahad's standard is described as the red cross on a white shield like the cross of St George. Filled with exciting characters and thrilling twists and turns,events and action. It is a fantastic read, which you genuinely will find hard to put down.
I am looking forward to reading Mc Kenzie's Prince of Dreams.

(4.5) "There is no one left. Pendragon is no more."
The battle of Camlann is over, Arthur is dead and Britain is shattered into pieces once again. Guinevere has retired to a nunnery and a heart-broken Lancelot returns to his Kingdom across the sea. Lancelot's young son Galahad was charged by Arthur to find the buried treasures that can reunite Britain once again and is joined by his twelve-year-old cousin Percival, now King of Gwynedd upon his father's death (although his uncle rules as regent). The lads are soon following the clues and legends of the hill men, the *ancient ones*, hoping to find the grail and spear of Macsen Wledig that can reunite Britain and make it whole again.

"If I cannot love my fellow-men, however dirty their hands, how can I love the God who made them?"

The book then backtracks to Galahad's childhood, when he was raised to hate his father and Queen Guinevere (see more of Elen's story in the first book, Queen of Camelot), by an embittered mother and a vicious priest with an agenda of his own. Lancelet eventually brings Galahad to Camelot to train for his knighthood and his hatred of Guinevere continues to grow and spreads to a disdain for all women, especially those who have been *cheapened* by unclean acts - including rape. The third part of the book backtracks to events leading up to the Battle of Camlann covered in the previous book in the series, albeit this time from Galahad's viewpoint.

The latter part of the book continues as Britain is rudderless upon the death of Arthur and the Saxon threat continues to grow. The wheel of fortune spins around once more and Galahad finds himself committing the very sin in the flesh that he has so loathed his father for desiring only in his heart, and in doing so dishonors his greatest friend and ally. Galahad continues to wander Britain without purpose until he can face his true self and turn the circle 'round again - will there be happiness or sorrow at the end of end of his quest? Can he find the grail and spear and reunite Britain?

This was a highly entertaining follow-up to the first in the series, Queen of Camelot, and I found it the perfect blend of myths and legends, dreams and just a *wee* bit of magic. Highly recommended for Arthurian fans, although I suggest you leave a goodly period of time between this and book one as there's a lot of story back-tracking in the middle. A solid four star read until the last 100 or so pages, I was riveted and needed the tissue box handy for a few of them. Despite this being part of a trilogy this book covers enough of the previous history that it could stand well enough on its own. The third book in the series is called Prince of Dreams: A Tale of Tristan and Essylte. 4.5/5 stars.

Another wonderful Arthurian retelling by Ms. McKenzie!
Having read and loved Queen of Camelot, I had to give this new part of the Grail series a whirl.Nancy McKenzie throws a very interesting spin on the King Arthur tale using its secondary characters and creating a new tale for them.This time it is Galahad, son of Lancelot, and he tries to do what Arthur asks of him just before he dies.Galahad grows up hating Lancelot.His mother, Elaine, does whatever is possible to turn him against his father and succeeds when she sees that Galahad wants nothing to do with Lancelot.When he discovers that his mother has told him lies, he decides he hates women and goes to live with Peredur, Percival's cousin, where he meets a woman who challenges his prejudice against the fairer sex.But all Galahad wants to do is find the items that will save Britain: Arthur's sword as well as the Grail and Spear.He has no idea where those items are, but he won't stop his search.There are various twists throughout the novel.

Phew!It's not easy writing a quick summary of a 500-something worth of (small print) pages with more twists and turns than a steep mountain.McKenzie has created another enthralling installment that will keep you turning those pages until the wee hours of the night because you'll want to know how Galahad resolves his issues.McKenzie creates a flesh and blood man with a great deal of depth and conflicting emotions. His relationship with Lancelot here is very interesting because he has years of pent-up anger toward him because of his mother's manipulations.As for the hating women part, the whole misogynist thing has been done quite a lot in Medieval (or in this case, more like fantasy) literature and I feel that his reaction toward women is kind of over the top, especially since Aidan, a so-called priest, also takes part in bad-mouthing Lancelot.Perhaps the author wanted to add some conflict when Galahad meets Dane, but I still think that this storyline is kind of overdone.Also, though it is important to understand Galahad's relationship with Arthur, the recount of the battle of Camlann is too long-winded.There are details that, in my opinion, should have been omitted because it makes no advancement in the story.The Arthurian characters are given a quite a unique perspective in this retelling and I enjoyed them very much.The Grail Prince isn't as great as Queen of Camelot (Guinevere's story), but it is still wonderful, better than most retellings I've read.I recommend this most highly, but not before you read Queen of Camelot.

A journey of self-discovery
This book follows the life of Galahad, Lancelot's son, from early childhood until he is an adult. Galahad is on a quest to secure three relics for Britain, a grail, a spear, and a sword. If he does, Britain will be forever invincible. In the beginning of the book, Galahad is intolerant, self-righteous, misogynistic and lacking in compassion. Through flashbacks to his childhood, the author allows us to understand why he became this way. Although there are battles, this book is less an adventure story than it is the story of one man's transformation. By slow degrees, Galahad comes to a better understanding of the world and especially of his father, Lancelot. He is finally able to be the great knight he had already believed he was. Nancy McKenzie does an excellent job portraying this transformation and making it real and believable for the reader. If you are looking for bloody battles, you may be disappointed, but if you like Arthurian legend and enjoy a well-written story with complex characters, give this a try.

A Fascinating New Perspective on Galahad!
This is the tale of Galahad, son of Lancelot.In the beginning, Galahad, poisoned in mind against Lancelot, learns to hate his father.His mother Elaine, with the help from a "priest" Aidan, work together successfully to turn Galahad against him.While Elaine has her own reasons, some of them her own fault, for hating Lancelot, she enlists Aidan in her plans to shame him, not knowing that he has his own reasons for revenge.

From all of this, Galahd has learned to despise his father and desires to avenge himself on Lancelot for the perceived cruelness imposed on his mother over the years.He finally breaks free to go to Camelot to serve Arthur, the High King, but peace eludes him there also.Eventually, he learns that all he was taught by his mother and Aidan was false and he then turns his mind against women, judging them all to be liars and the weaker of the sexes.He also continues to hate his father but after awhile of gradual maturing he comes to understand Lancelot but finds it difficult to forgive him until he himself commits the same mistakes as his father did.

He goes on a quest for Arthur to find the treasures that will heal Britain and once again make her invincible to invaders.For awhile, he travels with his cousin Percival who worships him as a hero figure.Galahad's pompous, aloof behavior changes when he meets Dane, the twin sister of Percival.

Things then begin to change his preconceived ideas and he learns to eventually love and to quest for something more tangible and earthly to bring him peace of mind. The novel switches back and forth between Galahad's past and his present life and shows how he matures in mind and body over the years.

This is a real page turning yarn that will delight and enthrall any follower of Arthurian Literature.I thought this would be a boring saga of the saintly character Galahad, but was pleasantly surprised to find it anything but.Galahad is portrayed as a man struggling with what he has always been taught to believe is right and what the true reality really is.A totally believable human beingis showcased here with faults of his own that he must learn to conquer in order to find true happiness.Read it, you will not be disappointed! ... Read more

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This digital document, covering the life and work of Nancy Affleck McKenzie, is an entry from Contemporary Authors, a reference volume published by Thompson Gale. The length of the entry is 1235 words. The page length listed above is based on a typical 300-word page. Although the exact content of each entry from this volume can vary, typical entries include the following information:

• Place and date of birth and death (if deceased)
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Product Description
This oversized, deluxe volume celebrating the exquisite spectacle that embodies the excellence of American Ballet Theatre, recognized by Congress as "America’s national ballet company," presents the unfolding beauty, grace, agility, and sheer force of its most recent productions. Distinguished photographer Nancy Ellison depicts such enduring ballet classics as La Bayadère, Othello, The Sleeping Beauty, Manon, Romeo and Juliet, Swan Lake, and Giselle, and captures the virtuosity of such unforgettable dancers as Angel Corella, Nina Ananiashvili, Alessandra Ferri, Julio Bocca, and Ethan Stiefel. ABT’s artistic director, Kevin McKenzie, has written an illuminating essay about this preeminent company. The combination of dynamic bravura dancing in dreamlike settings will be a sheer delight to ballet lovers everywhere. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

great ballet photos!
ABT is my favorite ballet company. This is a gorgeous coffee book. Fabulous pictures. Not as much text if one is looking for more history or to read about the dancers, but an outstanding ballet book to add to my collection.

Perfect for the ballet lover!
This book is 98% large, lush pictures of some of the elaborate ballets that ABT is best known for. These are not 'staged' photos like you see in the ABT calendars (and don't get me wrong, I love those, too) but these are action shots from the ballets themselves.

You get a very close view of the dancers and costumes- you get a great feel for the artistry of the ABT. Yes, it is spendy, but you really get to appreciate these moments that zip past when you are at the theater!

Not American Ballet Theatre-deustream413insea3pc
This book is art "manufacturing." It is not American Ballet Theatre, or as it is also known, ABT. It is "kill manufacturing" vis a vis Berlin science. They are not designses. They are not art plates. Save your money.

in classic style: the splendor of American Ballet Theater
This book was a gift to a budding ballerina.The photographs are beautiful but I did not read the book as I gave it away.

ABT - In Classic Style
Anyone who loves ballet would LOVE this book.Ten of their most popular ballets beautifully photographed with notes and commentary.It was an absolute joy to look through and read.Makes me remember my long-ago days in ballet class. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 1832 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 1471 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 501 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 482 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 645 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more

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This digital document is an article from Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery, brought to you by Gale®, a part of Cengage Learning, a world leader in e-research and educational publishing for libraries, schools and businesses.The length of the article is 1513 words.The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase.You can view it with any web browser.Written by experts in the field, this encyclopedia covers surgical procedures and related topics, such as anesthetics, medications, and postoperative care. Entries include definition, purpose, demographic information, diagnosis/preparation, aftercare, risks, morbidity, and mortality rates, alternatives, and more. ... Read more