Child of the Northern Spring: Book One of the Guinevere Trilogy Paperback – November 1, 2010

I really liked this book. It is well written and draws you into the period of time, the charaters, the life of a young woman who will be a queen. what little I know of Englands history (next to none) this book strikes me as something that might really have happened. the referances to the development of the "straps on the sid e of the horse that hold your feet in, and give you balance", the new jousting skills, and the clash or mixing of between the old religious beliefs and the new; all seem correct to era and story. Gwen could have been a horseback riding, spirited young woman. And Author probable was focused on his army and building a nation, rather than winning the love of his new bride. Its prossible. I mostly love hearing the womans side of the story. from Morgan Le Fay to Authors mother.Merline the world builder, was it magic he had or just being in the right place and being extremely smart? the Magic is questionable, just as it is in real life... was that intervention of a God, magic, or luck? each person has to decide. the pace of the book is moderate, not slow, not fast; but it holds my interest.I will definately get the next book.

If you like immersive writing that really creates a strong mental picture, this is the book for you. The crisp air, the scent of smoke from a fire on the breeze, the warming sensation mutton stew creates in the belly of the one who eats it on a cold winter night... it's like a portal to a different time.I have absolutely no affinity for Arthurian mythos but this book stands on its own as a great read with an interesting, strong female lead character. Guinevere is a very believable character and it is enjoyable to see the world through her eyes.For anyone who likes to escape into faraway realms, this is an excellent addition to the library.Note: I'm about 1/3rd of the way through the book.

I am an avid reader of historical fiction, especially of the British or Celtic variety. I enjoy it for the way interesting and well-developed characters can be set against a rich historical backdrop. Although it might be a stretch to call this story historical fiction, Woolley's book is written with the same qualities as my favorite historical fiction.Why only 4 stars? I give 90% of this book 5 stars, but the first 6 or 7 chapters get 3 stars at best because I almost didn't get through them. They realllllllllllllllllllllly dragged for me, but because I wanted to like this book I kept at it. I'm very glad I did, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.

I'm giving the e-book 5 stars not only because I have enjoyed the concept of introducing Gwen as a young girl, and thus making her seem more than tragic myth in the Arthur legend, and more like a person who could have lived during this time in history, but also because overall the writing is excellent.Keeping track of all of the characters who will appear later, as she 'remembers' her childhood is a bit difficult at first, but having her remembering the past while riding (unwillingly) to meet her future husband brings the story to life, and gives a glimpse into what has made her the strong young woman she is.The 'personality' of some in the legend have changed slightly from other books that were written in the past, but mostly for the better. They aren't just portrayed as GOOD or EVIL, the possible reasons for who they are (their backgrounds) are also suggested.Whether it's any closer to the 'truth', who knows? But an enjoyable read, whether history has been 'adjusted' or not.

You know, I'm on the fence about this historical novel. I understand that the author is trying to ground the myths with the likely history. But . . . I'm not sure we want to ground the myths. It's somehow sad to try to bring Merlin, Arthur, Guinevere, and Lancelot down to size. I like what she's done with Morgan le Fay. But, I'm skeptical about some historical ideas. For instance: stirrups. I thought it was Charlemagne who was the first European to get military advantage by adding stirrups to his cavalry's saddles.This book is adequately well written, and somewhat compelling, but it isn't mesmerizing. It isn't magical. So, if you're in the camp who loved Mary Stewart's Crystal Cave you'll feel that this fell short. But, if you wish the stories would square with some reality, this book may be for you.

I found this book by pure chance, because its sequel was featured in the Holiday Specials section of the Kindle Books store. Having always enjoyed Arthurian books, I thought I'd give the series a chance, and I am immensely glad that I did.Having read both the Mists of Avalon, and Mallory's Le Morte D'Arthur, I can safely say that this series is both the most realistic and the best written. I was enthralled. The characters are real enough to jump off the page, and the plot is believable and carefully, carefully researched. As a historian, perhaps I'm more naturally inclined to enjoy a book more rooted in history and the actual myths than fantasy, but regardless... this book, and hopefully the whole series, is an absolute gem and a pure joy to read. I couldn't put it down, I couldn't stop thinking about it when I did finally put it down, and I'm absolutely itching to start the second book!Highly, highly recommended for all those who want a believable, realistic, and enthralling window into the Arthurian world!

I really liked the story line of Child of the Northern Spring, Woolley created beautiful rich characters and her writing was wonderfully descriptive so that I was able to envison the story as it went on. My only issue with the novel was that it seemed to drag on, nothing of great importance happens throughout the novel and when something does happen it seems to be overlooked. I am normally a very fast reader but this book took me a very long time to get through. I am considering reading the next two in the Trilogy, but decided to take a break for right now, it is something that I may come back to later on.

As expected, shipping took too long