AVALON

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By: Stephen R. Lawhead
Avon Books 1999

Reviewed 11-15-99 by R. Thompson

Stephen Lawhead has published numerous books on the King Arthur, Merlin, Camelot legends, and while I have picked them all up in the bookstore or library and leafed through the pages, this is the first one of his that I have actually read.  I'm not sure why he has never been able to capture my full attention- All of his books have been best sellers in his genre, and I am immensely interested in this particular subject.  I did enjoy AVALON  quite a bit, so maybe I'll go back and give the others a try.

AVALON is a bit of departure however, as it is not set in Dark Ages / Medieval Britain.  It is set in modern day (or near future) England, Scotland & Wales.  The English Parliament is about to throw out the monarchy completely and elect the current Prime Minister as the first President of England.

As the story opens, James Arthur Stuart, an ex-military man who served with distinction is in a legal battle to try to save his home in the Highlands of Scotland from a group of Australian developers who have apparently acquired the entire estate of the late Duke of Morven whom his (also late) Father had served, and been given a few acres of land and the house for his service.

The legal battle appears hopeless, until a certain Mr. M. Embries appears and tells James that not only are the few acres his, but he has evidence to prove that that the entire estate belongs to James.

And that is the very least of surprises to James;  You see,  Mr. Embries is actually none other than Merlin of old, and James' middle name is more than appropriate-  He IS King Arthur, reborn, just as legend has said, to lead Britain once again in its darkest hour.

There are a few pages in this book that are absolutely superb-  All of the "Good guys" are brave, self sacrificing, honest and honorable.  The "Bad-guys" are suitably bad-  From weak willed minor politicians to villainous major politicians who will see their own goals and political agendas through no matter the cost.  Throw in one more villain that serves the "Dark Side" , and you have the makings for a very entertaining story.

This book is highly recommended.  In addition to being an entertaining story, it is also a good allegorical tale mirroring what is taking place in the governments of most if not all of our Nations and States throughout the world today.