Kingdom of Summer

Starred review from June 13, 2011
Bradshaw's second Arthurian tale, originally published in 1981, surpasses 2010's Hawk of May in bringing the world of a Roman Arthur to life. The tale of Gwalchmai, aka Gawain, continues, this time narrated by no-nonsense Rhys ap Sion, a farmer who leaves his family's holdings to pledge his service to Gwalchmai and the forces of the light. Gwalchmai often broods; Rhys simply does what needs to be done, whether that's thatching a roof or facing off against the evil Queen Morgawse. Where Gwalchmai has otherworldly power of the light to ward off the darkness, Rhys has only his loyalty, his Christian faith, and his shrewd manner, and he's all the more likable for it. Arthurian retellings rarely come from the voice of a freeman, and Rhys's grounded perspective enhances the fantastical elements. Adults and young readers alike will be delighted by Bradshaw's engaging mix of history, legend, and romance.

April 15, 2011

When Sir Gwalchmai ap Lot, known in legends as Sir Gawain, accepts the hospitality of a farmer's family, young Rhys ap Sion, the farmer's son, asks to travel back to Camlann as Gwalchmai's servant. In this fashion, the young man links his fortune with one of Arthur's most honorable knights and learns of the dark deed that cost his new master the woman he loved and discovers the darkness at the center of Gwalchmai's family. The second novel in Bradshaw's trilogy chronicling the life of Gawain from the point of view of a perceptive and resourceful commoner presents a believable portrait of a man driven by honor and bound by the laws of his time. VERDICT This sequel to Hawk of May, like its predecessor, returns to publication after 30 years to attract a new audience to the Arthurian cycle through the life of one of Camelot's most memorable knights.

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