Book Review: Dark Moon of Avalon by Anna Elliott

Pages: 432
Genre: Adult - Historical Fiction
Pub. Date: September 14, 2010
Book received for review from publisher
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Goodreads says, "She is a healer, a storyteller, and a warrior. She has fought to preserve Britain’s throne. Now she faces her greatest challenge in turning bitter enemies into allies, saving the life of the man she loves . . . and mending her own wounded heart.  The young former High Queen, Isolde, and her friend and protector, Trystan, are reunited in a new and dangerous quest to keep the usurper, Lord Marche, and his Saxon allies from the throne of Britain. Using Isolde’s cunning wit and talent for healing and Trystan’s strength and bravery, they must act as diplomats, persuading the rulers of the smaller kingdoms, from Ireland to Cornwall, that their allegiance to the High King is needed to keep Britain from a despot’s hands.  Their admissions of love hang in the air, but neither wants to put the other at risk by openly declaring a deeper alliance. When their situation is at its most desperate, Trystan and Isolde must finally confront their true feelings toward each other, in time for a battle that will test the strength of their will and their love.  Steeped in the magic and lore of Arthurian legend, Elliott paints a moving portrait of a timeless romance, fraught with danger, yet with the power to inspire heroism and transcend even the darkest age."

Dark Moon of Avalon picks up where the first book in the series, Twilight of Avalon, left off.  Trystan and Isolde plan on doing whatever it takes to make sure Lord Marche doesn't end up on the throne.  Isolde has become somewhat of a diplomat and and tries to gain support from other leaders so they can fight Lord Marche.  Of course, Trystan comes along for this adventure and their strong friendship blossoms into something more.  Dark Moon of Avalon by Anna Elliott is a must read for fans of Arthurian legend as well as historical fiction; readers will come to love this version of Trystan and Isolde.

One of my favorite things about this novel was the romance between Isolde and Trystan. It wasn't overdone, because at this point in their relationship, it was mostly longing glances and unspoken feelings.  In other words, there was a lot of tension; however, readers will be happy to hear that there are a few moments of realization for both characters towards the end of the novel.  I also love the fact that Isolde and Tristan's relationship is based on their mutual respect for one another, a long lasting friendship and trust.  This isn't a relationship that they have simply jumped into head first; in fact, it is quite the opposite.  And for me, that is what makes a captivating and believable love story.

When I reviewed Twilight of Avalon, I professed my love for Elliott's version of Isolde.  She is daring, bold, independent, knowledgeable, and determined.  She's everything you could want in a leading lady; I know that even modern readers will appreciate her.  She's definitely before her time.  Just like in Twilight of Avalon, I also was fascinated by her gift of the Sight and her talent to heal.  Lastly, Isolde dealt with a lot of emotions and left over feelings from dealing with Lord Marche and Con's death.  She had to work through all of her emotions as she dealt with a lot in book one. I thought it was pretty realistic how she slowly transformed and essentially mended her broken heart.   

The end of Dark Moon of Avalon had me hooked right up until the last line; I cannot wait to see what happens as Elliot leaves us with a cliffhanger.  Thankfully Sunrise of Avalon comes out in 2011 and I know the inevitable must happen, which makes me very nervous.....Lord Marche and Trystan must meet once again.  All in all, I highly recommend this series for fans of historical fiction and readers who want to be swept away.

  

*Buy Dark Moon of Avalon

*Buy Twilight of Avalon

*Read an excerpt here

*Watch the book trailer

Do you want to read this series? Thanks to Stacy at Touchstone, I have the opportunity to host an incredible giveaway!   I have two copies of both Twilight of Avalon and Dark Moon of Avalon to give away to lucky readers.  Check back tomorrow for the contest info!