Kingdom of Summer

This is a GREAT take on the Arthurian legends, centering on the knight I believe normally called 'Sir Gawain' but in this series is known by the old Celtic name of "Gwalchmai" (Hawk of May). This is the second book of the series. Be sure to read the first book- 'Hawk of May' before reading this and then check out the final book of the series "In Winter's Shadow"

Gillian Bradshaw continues in Kingdom of Summer where she left off in Hawk of May with one major change...she changes the point of view from Gwalchmai to Rhys, his servant. I like the observations Rhys makes of Gwalchmai and I think the switch in perspective adds much to a character I thought I had come to understand in the earlier book. There is a bit more sorcery involved in this book but I love that it is down played for the most part. I also love that there is no sign of Merlin or Lancelot; and Guinevere remains a barely mentioned figure in the background. After reading nearly every Arthurian legend I can lay my hands on, I am excited to find this author's perspective to be truly different from the norm. Bradshaw's characters have interest in their own right-- without the crystal balls and shape changing and time travel that so many authors depend upon for a cheap attempt to add a thrill to the story of Arthur. And really, I guess this story is very little about Arthur - it's about Gwalchmai and it is GREAT!

If you're looking for yet another re-telling of La Morte d'Arthur, look somewhere else. If you love Arthurian legend, but are interested in reading something a little different, Gillian Bradshaw's trilogy is fascinating, enjoyable, heart-breaking and impossible to put down.Even though sorcery and the Otherworld are prominent features in the books, the characters are realistic -- people that are easy to relate to. These books bring Arthur's Britain to life from a more historical (as opposed to legendary) perspective.The trilogy consists of "Hawk of May", "Kingdom of Summer" and "In Winter's Shadow". The first begins with Gwalchmai's (Gawaine's) childhood and ends with his acceptance into Arthur's Family. The second continues Gwalchmai's tale, but is told from the perspective of his servant. The third book is narrated by Gwynhwyfar (Guinevere)."Kingdom of Summer" is about Gwalchmai's search for the lady he loves, Elidan, and his eventual confrontation with his mother, Morgause, the evil sorceress. Other great characters, (along with Arthur & Gwynhwyfar) make appearances: Medraut (Mordred), Bedwyr (Bedivere), Gwalchaved (Galahad), Lot of Orcade, Agravain, Cei (Kay), Urien of Rheged, Maelgwn of Gwynedd, etc, etc. Don't look for Chretien de Troye's literary creation, Lancelot -- these books do very well without him.All three books are equally well written -- I can't recommend one more than another. There are more reviews written on the first book. Personally, this trilogy is my favorite Arthurian tale to date.

Gillian Bradshaw is a wonderful author with the gift to hold you captive in her descriptive style of writing.

The "Kingdom of Summer" is the 2nd book in GillianBradshaw's Arthurian trilogy. Its story line continues where the"Hawk of May" left off and ends before "In Winter's Shadow" The story follows Gawain and his servant Rhys as they move through dark age Britain to fight for the light. Anybody with a liking for Arthurian romances will like this book.