Marion Zimmer Bradley's Ravons of Avalon
A Novel of Atlantis and the Ancient British Isles

by Diana L. Paxson

“Ravens of Avalon” is a prequel to “The Forest House,” a book that Diana Paxon helped an ailing Marion Zimmer Bradley complete. In “Ravens of Avalon,” we witness the horrifying events that would eventually lead to the development of the Society of Ravens in “The Forest House.”

In AD 60, the Romans menace the British tribes and history tells us that the Romans wins. We know that, but this book digs deeply into the contrast between the male-dominated Romans and the passionate Britons, with their strong women. In particular, we come to know the warrior queen, Boudica. The novels do a beautiful job of creating events and people to shape Boudica's life.

No one gets to be perfect in this novel -- characters are too prideful, too meek, too impetuous, or too inward-dwelling for their own good -- but we believe in them completely. We come to know the Druids, the men and woman of magic, and see their power and their painful limitations. The setting is gorgeous, the characters deep and real, and the plotting filled with tension.

As befits a novel with Bradley's name on it, this is a gripping epic that can make readers laugh, cry, and seethe with anger. One thing you won't be is indifferent to the lives and sacrifices of these people. The masterful blend of myth and history left me eager to learn more about this turbulent time. What more could a historical fantasy hope for?