In Winter's Shadow

In Winter's Shadow - Gillian Bradshaw I liked this book quite a bit more than the first two volumes of Bradshaw's Arthurian trilogy. I said in the reviews of the other two books that I not only didn't feel those first two books were standouts among Arthurian-themed books I had read, but that I preferred Bradshaw's straight historical fiction. And I do, even though I am a lover of fantasy--even high fantasy. Nevertheless part of the reason I liked this so much more is that this novel does read much more like historical fiction than fantasy. There are no tales of spending time in Faerie. No sorcery. No glowing swords that heal or witch's curses. Just the tale of a woman, Gwynhwyfar, who as a little girl found coins and broken glass of the departed Roman Empire and dreamed with Arthur of forming a storm break that could prevent the flickering candle of law and learning from guttering out. Bradshaw's historical works often dealt with Roman civilization, and I think the way she deals with the theme here resonates more than it does with most Arthurian stories. I also think that this is told by Gwynfwyfar also helps. Gwalchmai (Gawain) of the first book Hawk of May and Rhys of Kingdom of Summer didn't quite grip me the way she did as a character. Doesn't get five stars because I still can't help comparing this to beloved favorites such as Mary Stuart's Merlin Trilogy or T.H. White's The Once and Future King. But definitely a strong finish and a good read those interested in Arthurian legends--or the historical Dark Ages--would enjoy. I think it could even stand alone, although I think reading the first two books--which are enjoyable in their own right--would help.