Myrddin, Merlyn to readers of other Arthurian retellings, believes that his young friend Arthur—under the proper tutelage—could unite the warring factions of the British Isles. To do so, Myrddin uses sleight of hand, which he calls magic, skillful story-weaving (exaggeration), and a young orphan named Gwyna. During the years she serves Myrddin, Gwyna appears as the Lady of the Lake, a boy-warrior in training, and finally as a spy and handmaid to Ar thur’s wife, Gwenhwyfar. Reeve’s tale suggests an alternative version of what might have happened and is probably more representative of the battles, deprivation, and treachery that a real Arthur might have experienced. 2009 Outstanding International Books List, 2007 Nestlé Children’s Book Prize Short list, Booktrust Teenage Prize Shortlist. lmp

Originally published by Scholastic Great Britain, in 2007.