Mists of Avalon, The by Marion Zimmer Bradley

My mother bought this novel for me when I was in my early 20's, and I couldn't put it down. We have both continued on this series, reading the entire collection, and were just dismayed frankly when it finally came to an end.

How vivid the scenery! You can hear the sounds, smell the herbs, feel the energy, feel the emotions... The characters are well developed, and the sub-plots merge nicely. I love the fact that many of the points presented (which may or may not be factual and or mythical) are so commonly discussed in other Arthurian legends, just from a different point of view. These tales were not only well-researched, but created brilliantly.

I have purchased these books for gifts, and always get a resounding thank you! once they've finished. You really cannot go wrong with this collection, nor with any of her many other works. Marian Zimmer Bradley was a heaven sent gift to the literary community, as is sorely missed.

I truly loved this book. I read it in 1990, I believe. My husband has many books about the Arthurian legend. I am from England, and we went back and searched many areas that were supposedly related to Arthur. Some of these places are referred to in The Mists of Avalon. Never before have I sensed the picture of someone's writing so vividly. Zimmerman Bradley portrays a magical world where faeries, Godesses, Druids and Magicians rule the land.
This book is a novel about faeries for adults. It will mesmerise you. It is one of those books you cannot put down, because you truly desire to stay in the world that the author creates for you. I think I shall read it again.

The Mists Of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley is truly one of the best books I have ever read, and I have read a lot of books! It is a retelling of the rise and fall of Camelot, through the eyes of the women who shaped the legendary tale. It is told from the perspective of Arthur's aunt, his high queen, his mother, The Lady Of The Lake, Viviane, and above all, Morgaine, Arthur's half sister and his greatest enemy. The entire book is romantic, surprising, and beautifully written, and it is so convincing, it makes the reader feel like it definitley happened. This is the perfect book for those in love with the age-old legend, and is truly a literature masterpiece.
Thought you knew King Arthur? Think Again!