The White Raven
The White Raven
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Brief
461
Novel • Fiction
Britain • 6th century
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The White Raven by Diana L. Paxson is a fantasy-romance novel set in 6th-century Ireland, retelling the story of Tristan and Isolde with characters Drustan and Esseilte. The tale, narrated by Esseilte's cousin Branwen, follows the forbidden love and tragic fate of Drustan and Esseilte amidst the complex political and religious landscape of the time. Sensitive topics include incest and familial loss.
Mysterious
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Romantic
Fantastical
Reviews & Readership
1,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews for Diana L. Paxson's The White Raven praise its richly detailed portrayal of medieval Wales and engaging reimagining of the Tristan and Iseult legend. Critics appreciate the author's deep historical knowledge and vivid character development. However, some find the pacing slow and the prose occasionally overwrought. Overall, it is well-regarded for its immersive storytelling.
Who Should Read The White Raven?
A reader who enjoys The White Raven by Diana L. Paxson would likely appreciate historical fantasy with rich Celtic lore and complex characters. Fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's The Mists of Avalon or Bernard Cornwell's The Winter King will find similar themes of myth, magic, and legendary heroes.
1,104 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
461
Novel • Fiction
Britain • 6th century
1999
Adult
18+ years
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