“A very real, passionate retelling of Morgan le Fay's story, with detail about political and magical lives, and the women who are such a vital part of the tale.” —Tamora Pierce, #1 New York Times bestselling author
“Sophie Keetch’s prose is as mesmerizing as the ocean’s tides, illuminating Morgan’s life with a deft and attentive hand.” —Rebecca Ross, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divine Rivals and Ruthless Vows
A powerful feminist retelling of the early life of Morgan le Fay, the famed villainess of Arthurian legend, this dazzling debut is the story of a woman both mortal and magical, formidable and misunderstood, told in her own words.
Young Morgan of Cornwall lives a happy life in Tintagel Castle until King Uther Pendragon, with the help of the sorcerer Merlin, murders her father and tricks her mother into marriage. Furious, brilliant, and vengeful, Morgan defies her brutal stepfather, taking up a secret education, discovering a lifelong affinity with the healing arts, and falling in love with a man far beneath her station. However, defiance comes at a cost. Used as a bargaining chip in her stepfather’s war games, Morgan finds herself banished to a world of isolated castles and gossiping courts, amidst the machinations of kings, sorcerers, and men.
But some desires are not easily forgotten, and the search for her independence is a quest Morgan cannot give up. As the era of King Arthur approaches, she must use all her wit, knowledge, and courage to fight against those who wish to deny her intelligence, crush her spirit, and control her body. But, in seeking her freedom, Morgan risks losing everything–her reputation, her loved ones, and her life.
Excellent retelling of the Arthur myth
"Young Morgan of Cornwall lives an idyllic life at Tintagel, her father's castle, with her parents and her two sisters, until King Uther Pendragon murders her father and forces her mother into marriage, helped along by Merlin. Furious, brilliant, and vengeful, Morgan defies her stepfather and engages in a forbidden education, discovering an affinity for the healing arts. But Morgan is little more than a pawn in Uther's machinations, and she finds herself wed to Urien of Gore and banished to an insular northern kingdom, forbidden to use her talents and skills. But she will not be suppressed: she will use all her wits and cunning to regain her independence, even if she risks losing everything. I love a good retelling of the Arthur myth. Several I've read have followed Morgan, but I think this may be my favourite so far. This version of Morgan is strong and defiant, sharp-tongued yet wise. I think this is the best portrayal of the woman Thomas Mallory simply drew as an evil queen. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy"
