I love the Arthurian legend. Any story surrounding the legend, whether it be about Arthur himself, or the other well known characters (to us that know the legend well), is always of great interest to me. While reading The Dragon's Harp, I found myself drawn to watch a favorite Arthurian film for the hundredth time. The film is "Excalibur" and I first saw it when I was twelve. It was the movie that hooked me on all things Arthur. I am pleased to say that this book has joined the ranks of my favorites surrounding the legend.The Dragon's Harp is the first book in Rachael Pruitt's planned five books series, Era of Dragons: The Lost Tales of Gwenhwyfar. In this book, we learn the coming of age story of Gwenhwyfar (or Guinevere) and her relationship with Merlin. Yes, in The Dragon's Harp, Merlin is Gwenhwyfar's uncle and it's an interesting twist on the traditional legend. It is from Merlin that Gwenhwyfar learns about her power and how to control it. I much prefer the Guinevere character portrayed as she is here--strong, likable, humble, and honorable--rather than the religiously obsessed, bitter, and shallow character in another favorite book, The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley (sorry, that's just how I see her in that book). Gwenhwyfar takes center stage in this retelling and it is up to her to save her people from the evil bent on their destruction. I can't wait to continue reading the series to find out how it all turns out for her. What is great about this first installment is that there is no cliffhanger so we don't have to chew our nails while waiting for the next book.This is a terrific first novel for Pruitt. She has outdone herself with the creation of a strong Arthurian premise with dynamic characters and writing that draws the reader with its descriptive and imaginative flow. Bring on the next book!
 - Rachael Pruitt)
