Mists of Avalon Abridged

Rating:
Summary: A disservice to the Arthurian women
Review: I realize that it is heretical for a Pagan woman to dislike this book, but I can't stand it! I certainly can't understand how so many women were excited by the portrayal of priestesses. I found virtually every character in this book to be narrow, self-serving, and ambitious. The Pagans were as judgemental and ambitious and treacherous as the Christians who were being criticized. Morgan callously manipulates Nimue to capture Merlin, never taking into account the possible impact on Nimue. Vivianne, her predecessor as Lady of the Lake sees people as no more than pawns to use in her struggle to retain religious control of Britain. Arthur is an oath-breaker. Lancelot is a schmuck. Guenevere a whiny milksop who lacks even the courage of her passions. I found no one I could care for in this book, and certainly no one to admire. In fact, my favorite character was Morgause (before she gets too far into black magic) because she at least was refreshingly clear-eyed about her own villainy. My own favorite Arthurian books, which deal with Paganism and the women of Camelot with respect, are _Firelord_ and _Beloved Exile_ by Parke Godwin. _Beloved Exile_ is written in Guenevere's voice, and is totally convincing. To be fair, I have to acknowledge that Bradley's writing is vivid and her characters complex. The scenes of Arthur's initiation on Dragon Island, Morgan's construction of Excalibur's scabbard, and the visions of the Grail were wonderful, powerful depictions of magic. But those three scenes are a very small slice of so huge a tome. My advice: don't waste your time on this book. It is hugely overrated!

Rating:
Summary: Can we say great?
Review: the was the best book ever that was conserened with the Authurian legends that I have read so far.

Rating:
Summary: I loved the book, kept me spellbound!
Review: Over the years I've read this book several times. I love theway MarionZimmer portrayed the women in this classic tale. Definatly written from a female point of view. Highly recommended.

Rating:
Summary: Fantabulous!
Review: This is the best sci-fi (if you would really call it that) book I have ever read. Growing up I was familiar with the works of Madeline L'Engle, Tolkein, and Ursula K. Leguin, but I have to say that this magical feminist (but not obnoxiously so) masterpiece got me hooked. I felt like I was Morgaine, and I wanted Gwenwhyfar dead. There aren't many books that can suck me in like that. This one gets seven thumbs up.

Rating:
Summary: What a GREAT book!
Review: I think that this was ont of the best books I have ever read. It is long, but engrossing. After finishing the book I felt that I knew so much more about Authur and the other characters that affected his reign and life.

Rating:
Summary: Why The Mists of Avalon is everybody's favorite book
Review: This is an epic tale spanning several generations through the legend of King Arthur. I am not at all into fantasy novels, and had no previous interest in the King Arthur legend. I do, however practice the craft and women's spirituality, and that is the aspect I was drawn to. I would imagine that many other King Arthur stories are told from an entirely male dominated, patriarchal perspective. I always assumed this story was one of war. It is, but not entirely. MZB tells this story from the perspective of the women. This book explains how the women really ran the show from behind the scenes. The women were the spiritual backbone of this time. The book tells of how male-centered Christianity took over. It makes clear the connection between war, patriarchy, and Christianity and how these ideals squashed the old ways of women, peace, and the Goddess. This book is filled with tragedy and triumph, emotions and suspense. Now that the trilogy is complete (Forest House, Mists, and Lady of Avalon) I recommend reading them in order for more clarity. The Mists of Avalon is the best book I will ever read in my life, and I know I will read it again and again. Cheezy as this may sound, I am surprised there hasn't been a blockbuster movie of this particular version of the story. That could be potentially awful and there is no way one could capture all the breadth of this novel in a two hour film, but I'd almost like to see someone try. This book is a must read for all women everywhere. I cannot highly recommend it enough. If you are reading this and haven't read Mists yet--READ IT!!!!! I guarantee you will LOVE it!!

Rating:
Summary: MZB amazes with heartfelt tale of Camelot
Review: I'll admit it. I had no intention of reading this book when I first saw it on the shelf. But when a British Literature teacher set it as Extra Credit, well, then I picked it up and began reading with a detached mind. My mind was changed very quickly. I began to be drawn into the book, it would be hard for anyone not to. The Characters made sense to me. I could identify with a great deal of them. I now regret that I did not delve into it for pure pleasure that first time, but in following readings of it, I revelled in the imagery of it all. Kudos to MZB for making such a wonderful book.

Rating:
Summary: mystical . . . mind grabbing . . . euphoric.
Review: The mists of avalon is rich in the mysterious magick of England and it's religion during the reign of King Arthur, when the pale of Christianity was just touching Britain. it changes your mind, and perspective on many things in life . . . makes you see everything in a different light. leaves you feeling wiser.

Rating:
Summary: One of the best reads, EVER!
Review: If you love Camelot, witchcraft, and a spellbinding read, this is the book for you. Based in Arthurian times, "The Mists of Avalon" takes you through the rise and fall of King Arthur in a manner that's easy to follow and hard to put down. The thickness of the book is daunting, but you'll find as you curl up with it over a nice, warm mug of tea that you won't want to stop reading about Arthur, Merlin, Vivane, and Morgana. I sure hope you pick it up because this book is a must for anyone who ever believed in Camelot.

Rating:
Summary: I feel Morgaine and I as one
Review: I don't think there are any words that I could write that wouldaccuratly described what I thought of this book and how much itimpacted me. The characters in this story gripped the very emotions that we all feel but hide away; lust, confusion and fierce loyalty. And these matters were dealt with in the most eloquent, unforgettable way that a book has ever even come close to doing. I am not a great fan of fantasy, but this novel is about so much more. Each characters represents an element that every human holds, which makes the reader bind to the character and feel their pain and happiness, their joys and anquish. This book literally left me breathless.......and my heart aches for the legend to continue on forever and always be with me. A truly beautiful, extaordinary, captivating book. And no words can do it justice....... END