The Lovers: The Legend of Trystan and Yseult

This is a good book. The characters are interesting--everyone has a different outlook on life. Gareth is the narrator. He starts out as a serf in Ireland, and due to a curse, is sent to work for Trystan in Britian. However, Trystan manages to get himself banished from Britain, and then sends for Gareth to come to Amorica. By this time, Gareth is a lord in his own right, and companion of King Arthur. The Arthurian legend is often mentioned in conjunction with this book. And although Arthur & Gwenevere play a role in the book, they aren't the main focus. Gwen & Lancelot are only mentioned once, and even then it is in passing. Arthur plays the larger role because he is commander of the troops of which Gareth & Trystan are members. I liked the people in the book, and I thought that Ms. Hawks did a good job bringing them to life. Be warned--this book can be rather depressing. It is full of lost loves, curses, death and people just trying to survive. Enjoy!

What more can I say - this retelling of the ancient and sad story was a real treat. Having the star-crossed lovers interconnect with the Arthurian legend was an especially nice touch. The characters are finely drawn and believable. In general this was a great story and even without the name mix up and the intermingling of two other stories I enjoyed it and would definitely read it again. Very romantic read.

I am hopelessly in love with Arthurian Legends. This book was WONDERFUL. Highly readable (easy enough to be tackled by high schoolers) and very entertaining. Not just about romance. No fantasy science fiction stuff, just pure legend of a beautiful yet tragic love. I just got a copy for my daughter.