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Showing posts with label Sir Thomas Malory. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sir Thomas Malory. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Malory's Knights of Albion-The Black Challice

R.I.P VI Challenge  (R.eaders I.mbibing P.eril VI Challenge) Is hosted by Carl over at Stainless Steel Droppings
Peril The First
Read four books, any length, that you feel fit (my very broad definitions) of R.I.P. literature. It could be Stephen King or Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Ian Fleming or Edgar Allan Poe…or anyone in between.


Written By: Steven Savile
Copyright: 2011
Publisher:  Abaddon Books
Paperback Pages:  293


Malory’s Knights of Albion appears to be a series of stories found in an old church as it had been cleared for renovation. It is claimed to be the Second Book of King Arthur and His Noble Knights, with a different author translating each separate story. It comes complete with appendixes illustrating the story of how the second book was found, and also more about the adult life of the main character. It's very believable, and intended to honor Sir Thomas Malory.

This is the story of Alymere, a young boy on his way to Camelot to become a knight, and pledge his loyalty to King Arthur. Alymere is a beautiful innocent boy, but he is also very hurt...and very angry with his uncle whom he believes has usurped his fathers title and taken all that should have belonged to him. Alymere becomes a pawn in a game much greater than he comprehends, and the players are the very dark and scary kind. In the end he must decide between great evil, or ultimately... redemption.

The way I see it: This story revolves around choices, and the aftermath of those choices. When my daughter recommended it, I pictured cookie-cutter King Arthur and the Knights of the round table. I couldn't have been more mistaken. It's dark and manipulative, yet keeps you clinging to the chance there may still be hope....just a little bit of light still lingering. 

The bad, the bad, and the ugly: If I told you my idea of the BBU (bad bad ugly) It would be a terrible spoiler...so alas...I will not. Let's just say that the ending was not what I wanted to happen, but it' what had to happen.

Love it or Leave it: Despite myself I loved this story. I loved Alymere and all of his flaws. He was tragically beautiful. As far as the book goes, I have to say this is a very fast read...even for one so literarily challenged as I...lol Plus, the chapters are on the short side and many of them end in mini cliffhangers! But keep in mind...Alymere's story is very RIP appropriate ;) 

Oh, and I also learned a new term...pastiche, An artistic work in a style that imitates that of another work, artist, or period.
Love it when that happens :D