Hawk of May (Down the Long Wind)

By Gillian Bradshaw

Book Overview

"Intelligent and imaginative...even the magic convinces." -Mary Renault, author of "The King Must Die" "On The Path Toward Greatness, Every Hero Makes a Choice" Legends sing of Sir Gawain, one of the most respected warriors of King Arthur's reign and one of the greatest champions of all time. But this is not that story. This is the story of Gwalchmai, middle son of the beautiful, infinitely evil sorceress Morgawse, and gifted student of her dark magical arts. A story of an uncertain man, doubting his ability to follow his elder brother's warrior prowess and seeking to find his own identity by bonding with his frightening and powerful mother. Disappointed in himself and despised by his father, Gwalchmai sets out on a journey that will lead him to the brink of darkness... A tale of loss, redemption, and adventure, "Hawk of May "brings new depth and understanding to Sir Gawain, the legend of King Arthur, and the impact of choices made-and the consequences that follow. "A welcome new light on the horizon of popular Arthurian legend...delightful...a strong sense of love and mysticism...a ripping adventure tale." "-Booklist" "Will appeal to those who have enjoyed Tolkien's works." "-Library Journal" "Compelling...splendid...vibrant...exhilarating...a novel that seduces us into accepting sorcery and sanctity in King Arthur's England." "-New York Times Book Review"

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1402240708
• ISBN13: 9781402240706
• Release Date: September 2010
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark
• Length: 363 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 1.3" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

Perfect Arthurian Tale

Gillian Bradshaw is a spellbinding, brilliant author who is far too little known. I first read Hawk of May about 9-10 years ago, when my little hole-in-the-wall bookstore with treasures galore turned up a first-edition hardcover. I've been captivated ever since with this woman's talent, and distressed that she's relatively unknown.Go buy her books, if you enjoy intelligent (but not "serious", non-bodice-ripping historical fiction. And if you're looking for a book that's got a gripping plot, great characters, which ALSO explores the deepest issues of the human heart, you've found the right author! Only Mary Stewart compares, when it comes to Arthur, and yes, I prefer Gillian Bradshaw (and folks, that's saying something!).

Wow

I've recently started reading this book. It's brill! I can't wait to see what happens to Agravain after being taken hostage!

Sensitive and detailed Arthurian fantasy

The tale of Gwalchmai, King Arthur's nephew and Morgause's son, spirits you to an early Britain that is historically well-drawn and emotionally involving. Plenty of action, magic, and attention to detail make this one of the finest fantasy books ever written.

Tells the tale of Artus seen with his own nephew's eyes

This book and its two sequels narrate the wellknown story of King Arthur from a refreshing new angle. The reader gets drawn into the dramatic struggle of Light against Darkness in turn by the characters who tell the story as it unfolds before them: Gawain, Artus's troubled nephew, his servant Rhys - and finally by Gwynhwyfar, Artus's wife. A must for all friends of Arthurian tales

One of the few books I've read more than once.

I am a great fan of books dealing with Arthurian myths and legends. This is due in large part to "Hawk of May" by Gillain Bradshaw. It's a wonderful story dealing with the classis good vs. evil and light vs. darkness themes. Even though the main character, Gwalchmai, receives a noble mission, a sword, and a horse no one can tame, he still has to earn the trust of King Arthur. What finally wins Arthur is not Gwalchmai's brave deeds in battle, but a small act of kindness. I rarely read a book more than once, but I've already read "Hawk of May" three times, and I am sure I will read it again. I wish I could make a movie based on the book. It's a story everyone should experience