Guardian of the Balance: Merlin's Descendants #1

Radford deviates quite liberally from the Arthur legend we all know, but not enough so that the story isn't recognizable. And she takes one liberty that is essential to the plot of this and the other books in this series. In the actual legend Merlin never married, nor did he have any children - though the woman Nimue did indeed cause his downfall by seducing him. Here, Merlin breaks his vows of celibacy before the story of Arthur begins (which we learn in a brief prologue) and is punished for it by the gods. The result of that breach of faith is his daughter, Arylwren (Wren for short), who is the actual central figure of this story. She wanders the country with her father, studies in Avalon for several years, and becomes a powerful sorceress in her own right - powerful enough to challenge both Nimue and the woman history will know as Morgan Le Fey. But her life is not a happy one. She is forced into marriage with a man she cannot love and who treats women like cattle, while the man she truly loves marries a lady named Guinevere. Nevertheless, Wren does her part to hold Arthur's Britain together for as long as she and her Da can - but in the end, as we all know, the Golden Age is doomed. Not, however, before Wren finds some happiness by perpetuating her family's line. Radford's first book in the series "Merlin's Descendants" is a grand beginning to what promises to be a wonderful story. This is by far the best feminist take on the Arthurian legend since Marion Zimmer Bradley's "The Mists of Avalon" and its succeeding tales. I definitely look forward to the next book.

I have never before read an Irene Radford book -- oh what I've been missing! Ms. Radford's writing is so fabulous, that you can actually feel the ground beneath your feet when she describe's Wren's contact with nature. This not just a retelling of the Arthur story, so much more! It goes deeply into the heart of the main character, Merlin's daughter Wren. You learn to care about what happens to her and how she feels -- truly the mark of good writing! I highly recommend this book to anyone -- fantasy reader as well as all those who enjoy good fiction. Buy it, read it, you'll be glad you did!

What a great read- I read her second book (Guardian of the Trust) first and truly enjoyed both- I like the concept that Arthur and Lancelot grew up together- it makes the conflict much more real- The character flaws of Merlin really stand out- And the idea that there are descendants of the Pendragon and Merlin is an awesome concept!

I just have to say that I could not put this book down. I read the entire thing in one night. If you are a fan of Arthurian Legend this is one of the better fantasy books I have read. The characters draw you in and then you're hooked!

Ms. Radford has outdone herself this time. Her expertise in the subject is evident. The story grips the reader from beginning to end. I was spellbound! Her imagery is magical. The reader can taste the fresh air as well as smell impending doom. They can feel the coldness of the rain and the warmth of love. The plot begins on a high and fast-paced note and continues to twist and turn throughout the book. The underlying plot continues to churn until the final chapters when all is revealed.