betty reviewed In Camelot's shadow by Sarah Zettel
Review of "In Camelot's shadow" on 'Goodreads'
3 stars
I had read one of Zettel's other works, (the Isavalta trilogy, I think) and found it to be somewhat generic fantasy, but I rather enjoyed this one. I am not a terribly critical reader when it comes to Aurthurian reworkings since I don't know the source well enough to spot any offenses; readers who are should note that.
That said, it managed to present at least the appearance of a well researched semi-historical novel that blends history and legend while trying not to damage either too severely. Particularly, Zettel deals sympathetically with the situation of women: the protagonist, Risa, is a woman of her time, occasionally frustrated by the role given her, but sees her social station as mandated by god and tries not to be impious. Although the book seems to take the form of a romance, to me the story seems to be more about Risa finding a …
I had read one of Zettel's other works, (the Isavalta trilogy, I think) and found it to be somewhat generic fantasy, but I rather enjoyed this one. I am not a terribly critical reader when it comes to Aurthurian reworkings since I don't know the source well enough to spot any offenses; readers who are should note that.
That said, it managed to present at least the appearance of a well researched semi-historical novel that blends history and legend while trying not to damage either too severely. Particularly, Zettel deals sympathetically with the situation of women: the protagonist, Risa, is a woman of her time, occasionally frustrated by the role given her, but sees her social station as mandated by god and tries not to be impious. Although the book seems to take the form of a romance, to me the story seems to be more about Risa finding a way to live her life within the limitations imposed on her.
Won't cure rickets, but an intelligently enjoyable read.