The Faerie Morgana

In this charming foray into Arthurian legend, Morgan (A Secret History of Witches) turns the focus onto the powerful enchantress Morgan Le Fay, showing how she’s entwined with Arthur’s story from his childhood to his reign. Cast off by her mother when she’s only four years old, Morgana is raised on the Isle of Apples at the Lady’s Temple. The Isle is ruled over by the Nine, priestesses of the Lady who are bound to protect the land and aid supplicants with charms, potions, and other small magic. As Morgana grows up, it becomes clear that she is far more powerful than even the most advanced of the Nine, able to move things with only her thoughts and change her shape at will. Her magic sparks cruel rumors that she must be descended from the fae, who were banished by the Lady for their wickedness. After Morgana ascends to become one of the Nine herself, she is frequently called to Camulod to protect Arthur, her half brother, with Braithe, her magic-less acolyte turned handmaid, at her side. The plot is relatively straightforward, with few twists or surprises, but Morgan still makes Morgana’s life story fascinating and enchanting. Fans of women-focused retellings will be glad to add this one to their personal libraries. Agent: Peter Rubie, FinePrint Literary. (Sept.)