Book
Lady of Avalon
First published 1997
Three linked narratives follow Avalon’s priestesses from the end of the first century to the final decades of Roman rule. Caillean raises Eilan’s son Gawen and veils Avalon from hostile eyes; generations later Dierna binds the sanctuary’s fortunes to the breakaway emperor Carausius; in the fifth century Viviane must choose between her mother’s authority and Avalon’s future.
The novel uses these women to trace the changing political position of Britain as Roman administration weakens and Saxon settlement expands. By carrying Avalon’s traditions across distinct crises, Caillean, Dierna and Viviane prepare the religious and dynastic world inherited by Morgaine and Arthur.
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