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Editorial Reviews
The novel that truly begins the bestselling Avalon saga...
Related Reviews
Historical Novel of Avalon & The Lady Of The Lake
I read the series backwards, and all three books were equally wonderfull. The Mists of Avalon I actually think is the best one, but the Forest House is the first in the series and is positively beautifull. I wish I would have started out in the right direction. This book practicly glues you to the story in the first chapter and keeps you there till the end. You endur the trials and feel the strength of the characters as if you were really there. Bradley works her magic bringing you into a realistic story that spins you into a world full of magic, action and romance. This is a can't miss book.
Although not quite as good as MISTS OF AVALON
this prequel is still excellent.
The story is set in the days of Roman occupation of Britain. Gaius, a young Roman officer and son of the local Roman commandant with his British wife has met and fallen in love with Eilan, the daughter of a powerful Druid family. Neither family approves of the match and forces the two apart. For the rest of their lives they met again and again only to be torn apart. Ultimately their unfulfilled love sets the stage for the events in MISTS OF AVALON.
The story is again told, at least in part, from a feminine point of view. As in MISTS there is a greek tragedy feel of unescapable doom. The characters are engaging and 'feel real', the plot is compeling making this a book that is hard to put down. It does not quite live up to MISTS due at least in part, to its more simplistic story line. Unlike MISTS' numerous story lines THE FOREST HOUSE focuses on Eilan and Gaius with Caillean, a priestess of the Forest House filling in gaps. This prequel is also significantly shorter. Still for any fan of MISTS OF AVALON this is a must read and would be enjoyable on its own as well.
A good book - historical interesting, but too long at times.
"The Forest House" (or "The Forests of Avalon") is a good book, no doubt - but it is not as good as "The Mists Of Avalon", by any means. The book is too long compaired to the content of the story, but it is written very well - if not as good as "The Mists...". The characters are very well described, but not always totally realistic. The force of the book is the historical facts about the Roman occupation, and it gives a new perspective to "The Mists..." because the celtic religion is described. Also, a lot of information about the religious background of the characters in "The Mists..." is given. Should be read if you liked "The Mists...". (P.S. I'm sory that my english isn't perfect.)
Bradely has out done herself with this book. The characters were so alive, all of them. When they went through their hard times I felt like I was right there with them. I cheered on Eilan and booed Ardanos. And in the end I felt the pain they went through. This whole series has been so spell binding that's it's uncanny. To think that a mere mortal or human wrote this series, is simply unfathomable. I feel they have given me inspiration and happiness among many other feelings. Marion Zimmer Bradley has made me laugh, cry, love, and hurt with her series of books, and I can only pray that there's more where this has come from. The woman behind these books should be more recognized. I hope there is a day when the name Marion Zimmer Bradley is a name that is known in every family. I would also recomend this book to anyone who likes to read Arthurian Legend. And for these people I have one more piece of advice. I read this series out of order. I would suggest that you read Forest House first. Then Lady of Avalon, then Mists. I praise Bradley for the hundreds of pages of joy and amazment she has given me. Thank you very much.
This book really stayed with me. I received it as a gift, and since I do not normally enjoy British/Druidic lore, I really started reading it out of politeness. But almost as soon as I began it I was hooked. Extremely well written, encompassing fascinating themes, and with a haunting reality to the characters and to pagan lore and rituals, it was riveting throughout. I also found the Roman history and politics involved interesting, and the changing/dying role of the 'old' religion with the onset of Christianity.
I have now read it twice, and will definitely be reading Mists of Avalon, since I feel as though I would like to "stay in touch" with the characters and their descendants. I am very interested to see how this book will tie into Bradley's retelling of the Arthurian legend for which I understand it is the precursor. I reccomend it highly!
Marion Zimmer Bradley's Avalon novels continue to compel and inspire even after her death, and _The Forest House_ is certainly no exception. After becomong obsessed with _The Mists of Avalon_, I had no idea there were other books in the semi-series until I found a copy of _The Forest House_ in a used book store, and read it in only a day or so. If you liked _Mists_, this novel won't disappoint.
I also recommend you start with _The Fall of Atlantis_, and then continue reading the books in chronological order, which places Diana Paxson's _Ancestors of Avalon_ next, followed by _Lady of Avalon_, _The Forest House_ and finally _The Mists of Avalon_.
I also recommend you start with _The Fall of Atlantis_, and then continue reading the books in chronological order, which places Diana Paxson's _Ancestors of Avalon_ next, followed by _Lady of Avalon_, _The Forest House_ and finally _The Mists of Avalon_.
Pleasant read; adds little of note to Arthurian legend
If a book or movie is successful, you can expect a sequel. In the case of The Mists of Avalon, Marion Zimmer Bradley had begun with the culmination of the Arthurian tale--Arthur's rule and death. With little of mythological interest to tell after Arthur, Bradley turns to his ancestors for her first prequel.
The Forest House, set primarily during the rule of Domitian (81-96 CE), is the tale of two people and two peoples. First, there is Gaius/Gawen, son of a high-ranking Roman official and his now-deceased Briton wife, and Eilan, daughter of an influential Druid, granddaughter of the Arch-Druid, and aspiring priestess. They represent the invading Romans and the native Britons of many tribes and lived in a world that is changing.
The Roman empire, overextended and increasingly dependent on its provinces for manpower, is on the decline. Briton, defeated but rebellious, is making its last stand. At the same time, the exotic Eastern religion of Christianity is taking followers from Rome's patriarchal and Britannia's matriarchal pagan beliefs. Like the Romans and Britons themselves, these religions coexist under an uneasy truce; as Joseph of Arimathea tells the priestess Caillean, "Surely then you know all the gods are one God," which she completes with, "and all the goddesses one Goddess."
While the Arch-Druid and the old High Priestess Lhiannon, together with Gaius's father Macellius, contrive to keep the peace, Eilan's father, Bendeigid, and her foster brother, Cynric, who is the result of Roman atrocities against the priestesses of Mona, want both to exact revenge on the Romans and to drive them off their island. Against this setting, the ambitious Gaius and the equally ambitious Eilan meet and fall in love.
Bradley sets up the history well, with touches that show how Britannia has slowly but inevitably succumbed to civilization. As one character notes, it has been decades since wolf- or bearskins have been available in the marketplace. Bradley establishes a good sense of time and place, although Caillean's story of her indifferent mother with too many children to care for seems to introduce modern sensibilities.
The characters and the plot seem more influenced by soap operas than by history or realism. Neither Gaius nor Eilan appears to be a well-developed, consistent character; in fact, the senior priestess Caillean is the only complex character whose beliefs are clear and whose behavior follows them. The Arch-Druid, Ardanos, wishes peaces at all costs, but the motivation for the strength of his conviction, which leads him to suggests killing his own descendants, is never clear.
The most puzzling aspect of The Forest House is the practice of the goddess religion and its role in keeping the peace. Neither Ardanos nor Bendeigid seem particularly faithful to it, and Caillean and many of the priestesses know that Ardanos changes the goddess's message delivered through the oracle of the High Priestess when he translates it for the common people. Bradley makes much of the Arch-Druid's manipulation of the oracle, whether delivered by Lhiannon or his granddaughter Eilan, but does not offer any detail about what he changes, why it angers Caillean and others, or why the goddess allows it. Ardanos is painted as manipulative and shady, but without details it is difficult to judge him or what he does. Only once does the goddess bypass him, and it is to state the obvious--that the world is changing, and that the Roman and British people will become one whether they wish it or not.
As in The Mists of Avalon, Bradley refers obliquely to Atlantis. She also mentions the idea that Caillean, Eilan, and Gaius have lived before and will live again, but the significance is never revealed, unless it is meant to explain Arthur as the once and future king. Without a story of Arthur's return, however, this seems an insignificant plot point that is given more significance than it seems to warrant.
At some point, the plot comes to a halt and struggles for some time. Events happen that are necessary to expedite the conclusion, but they take a long time to unfold and are not interesting on their own. Eilan talks about the importance of her "work" at the Forest House, which seems to be primarily to speak at the festivals for the goddess, who is reinterpreted anyway. Gaius marries, has children, travels, and meets influential people; this part of the story seems especially protracted and tedious. As they grow older, both Eilan and Gaius become more self-righteous and less likable so that, by the end, I found it difficult to care about the fate of either one. It is the Irish Caillean, who is sent to establish a new home at Avalon, who remains interesting and true to herself.
The Forest House is a pleasurable but disappointing novel that offers few surprises and, unlike The Mists of Avalon, adds little of note or interest to the Arthurian legend.
The Forest House, set primarily during the rule of Domitian (81-96 CE), is the tale of two people and two peoples. First, there is Gaius/Gawen, son of a high-ranking Roman official and his now-deceased Briton wife, and Eilan, daughter of an influential Druid, granddaughter of the Arch-Druid, and aspiring priestess. They represent the invading Romans and the native Britons of many tribes and lived in a world that is changing.
The Roman empire, overextended and increasingly dependent on its provinces for manpower, is on the decline. Briton, defeated but rebellious, is making its last stand. At the same time, the exotic Eastern religion of Christianity is taking followers from Rome's patriarchal and Britannia's matriarchal pagan beliefs. Like the Romans and Britons themselves, these religions coexist under an uneasy truce; as Joseph of Arimathea tells the priestess Caillean, "Surely then you know all the gods are one God," which she completes with, "and all the goddesses one Goddess."
While the Arch-Druid and the old High Priestess Lhiannon, together with Gaius's father Macellius, contrive to keep the peace, Eilan's father, Bendeigid, and her foster brother, Cynric, who is the result of Roman atrocities against the priestesses of Mona, want both to exact revenge on the Romans and to drive them off their island. Against this setting, the ambitious Gaius and the equally ambitious Eilan meet and fall in love.
Bradley sets up the history well, with touches that show how Britannia has slowly but inevitably succumbed to civilization. As one character notes, it has been decades since wolf- or bearskins have been available in the marketplace. Bradley establishes a good sense of time and place, although Caillean's story of her indifferent mother with too many children to care for seems to introduce modern sensibilities.
The characters and the plot seem more influenced by soap operas than by history or realism. Neither Gaius nor Eilan appears to be a well-developed, consistent character; in fact, the senior priestess Caillean is the only complex character whose beliefs are clear and whose behavior follows them. The Arch-Druid, Ardanos, wishes peaces at all costs, but the motivation for the strength of his conviction, which leads him to suggests killing his own descendants, is never clear.
The most puzzling aspect of The Forest House is the practice of the goddess religion and its role in keeping the peace. Neither Ardanos nor Bendeigid seem particularly faithful to it, and Caillean and many of the priestesses know that Ardanos changes the goddess's message delivered through the oracle of the High Priestess when he translates it for the common people. Bradley makes much of the Arch-Druid's manipulation of the oracle, whether delivered by Lhiannon or his granddaughter Eilan, but does not offer any detail about what he changes, why it angers Caillean and others, or why the goddess allows it. Ardanos is painted as manipulative and shady, but without details it is difficult to judge him or what he does. Only once does the goddess bypass him, and it is to state the obvious--that the world is changing, and that the Roman and British people will become one whether they wish it or not.
As in The Mists of Avalon, Bradley refers obliquely to Atlantis. She also mentions the idea that Caillean, Eilan, and Gaius have lived before and will live again, but the significance is never revealed, unless it is meant to explain Arthur as the once and future king. Without a story of Arthur's return, however, this seems an insignificant plot point that is given more significance than it seems to warrant.
At some point, the plot comes to a halt and struggles for some time. Events happen that are necessary to expedite the conclusion, but they take a long time to unfold and are not interesting on their own. Eilan talks about the importance of her "work" at the Forest House, which seems to be primarily to speak at the festivals for the goddess, who is reinterpreted anyway. Gaius marries, has children, travels, and meets influential people; this part of the story seems especially protracted and tedious. As they grow older, both Eilan and Gaius become more self-righteous and less likable so that, by the end, I found it difficult to care about the fate of either one. It is the Irish Caillean, who is sent to establish a new home at Avalon, who remains interesting and true to herself.
The Forest House is a pleasurable but disappointing novel that offers few surprises and, unlike The Mists of Avalon, adds little of note or interest to the Arthurian legend.
3rd book in the Mists series doesn't dissapoint
This book is the third book in the Mists of Avalon series, following "The Fall of Atlantis" and "Ancestors of Avalon." Although this book starts far later than the ending of the previous book, and with all new characters, there are bits and pieces of the characters that tie them in as reincarnations of characters from the previous books, including bindings that they've made with each other before.
As with all the books in this series, I found this one to be very spiritual. It gives a sense of connectedness with the past and Pagan spiritualness.
This story takes place in 1st century AD, when the priestesses and Druids are mostly practicing to the north of Avalon, and then covers the priestesses and Druids moving to Avalon to establish there. This lineage will go through to "The Mists of Avalon."
The situations and characters in this book have their stories continued in the first part of the book "Lady of Avalon."
As with all the books in this series, I found this one to be very spiritual. It gives a sense of connectedness with the past and Pagan spiritualness.
This story takes place in 1st century AD, when the priestesses and Druids are mostly practicing to the north of Avalon, and then covers the priestesses and Druids moving to Avalon to establish there. This lineage will go through to "The Mists of Avalon."
The situations and characters in this book have their stories continued in the first part of the book "Lady of Avalon."
The Forest House is the prequel to The Mists of Avalon, even though the "prequel" was written many years later than the "sequel." Like Mists, The Forest House is a wonderful book, one that I could not put down once I got past the slightly dry beginning. Never mind that the girl on the cover looks like a stoned Callista Flockhart/Ally McBeal. The main character, Elian, is just as engaging as Morgaine, the main character of Mists. Anyone who loved Mists will be delighted with this book, full of the same Druid mysticism and ancient Britainnian history.
The story is about Elian, and how she falls in love with a Roman soldier, torn between her love for him and her duties as a chosen priestess of the Forest House, a house where vestal virgins worship the goddess. The setting is when the Romans occupied what is now England, and ruled with an iron fist all of the native peoples, including Elian's family of Druids. The Druids have a tolerate-hate relationship with the Romans, mostly hate.
There are many fascinating characters in this book. The research that went into both this and Mists is staggering. To me it is amazing that Marion Zimmer Bradley had time to write both of these books in her lifetime.
The story is about Elian, and how she falls in love with a Roman soldier, torn between her love for him and her duties as a chosen priestess of the Forest House, a house where vestal virgins worship the goddess. The setting is when the Romans occupied what is now England, and ruled with an iron fist all of the native peoples, including Elian's family of Druids. The Druids have a tolerate-hate relationship with the Romans, mostly hate.
There are many fascinating characters in this book. The research that went into both this and Mists is staggering. To me it is amazing that Marion Zimmer Bradley had time to write both of these books in her lifetime.
This is a gorgeously written book, and I've been reading Marian Zimmer Bradley's work for years. It's not quite up to snuff with her masterpiece THE MISTS OF AVALON (for which it is a prequel) but it is still a gorgeously written, feminist examination of the conflict between Druidic and Roman cultures in early Britain. I recommend reading it after you read THE MISTS OF AVALON, because you'll get more out of this book and also color what you learned in MISTS in sharper focus.
I also recommend reading one of Zimmer Bradley's early novels, THE FALL OF ATLANTIS, which was recently put back into print by Baen Books. THE FOREST HOUSE alludes to Atlantean culture as an ancient source for Druidism, and if you've read THE FALL OF ATLANTIS, you'll pick up on some of that. It's cool to see how Zimmer Bradley's books fit together, even if they were written thirty years apart.
M. Z. B. wrote a seminal book in The Mists Of Avalon. Well researched, well written, and utterly absorbing. The whole book hangs together as a complex tale covering three generations, don't read it once, read it three times. The Forest House is a prequel leading nowhere. A promising beginning, a middling middle,... and no ending, it just sorts of tails off... The last page is not a disappointment, it's a relief - and thank the Goddess that I read The Mists Of Avalon first. I can't help feeling that this book, and others she has written in the same vein, lack the passion, the vision, and are only written with one thing in mind, to milk the market after a truly brilliant novel. Read Mists Of Avalon first and avoid all her other offerings or risk disappointment.
Even though it's not the epic adventure of MOA...it is a beautiful and heart wrenching book. It gives the reader wonderful foundation for LOA and MOA and the characters though not as developed as MOA (although I wish they were!) Are absolutely amazing! I cried..laughed and learned. And I didn't want to stop reading. I read it in a day! This book is def. one of my all time favorites! if not the favorite! I will cherish the characters especially. In reading this book, I also see that the characters revisit us in the other books in this series. Although they take on different shapes and forms...they are the same...see if you can find the similarities as well. In my opinion...this is what makes the books so wonderful and why people have such strong connections with the series. Although I wish the ending was different...I know that we see the main characters in love once again...in every book.
Well...not as good as I was expecting
I've read just about everything mzb wrote, including "Mists of Avalon", and was thrilled to find this prequel to Mists. BUT while I wasn't totally disappointed, and I really enjoyed the first chapters, as the book progressed I found the characters harder to sympathize with. I can understand why people are forced to make really hard choices in life, but these characters never ever seemed convinced that these choices were the right ones - and I was never convinced of the Goddess' presence like I was in "Mists". I am a fan of Roman culture and was pleased with that aspect of the novel. However, I find myself ready to go back and read it again and see if there was something I missed the first time, because there was certainly something missing..
Forest House -excellent in its own right
The Forest House was an excellent book that gives a unique
perspective on the time period it was written. While it is a prequel of the Mists of Avalon, the story is very different and entertaining. While 'The Mists' swept you up into the realms of King Arthur from a new perspective, The Forest House took place long before Arthur. The Romans were the 'rulers' of the time,and the author vividly told the story of love and sacrifice. While both books are connected in a series, they cannot and should not be compared on their content, but on their quality. I think that Zimmer Bradley did another excellent job on a story well told.
This book is in some ways much better than its predecessor, "Mists of Avalon." Bradley was allowed more freedom to develope her own characters in "Forest House" which is evident because many of them have more depth than the characters from the Arthurian legend, and not bound by the legend to portray cetain characters certain ways. The only defect to the story was that it leap-frogged through time and thoughs missing periods could have been fleshed out. Interestingly though, this book does seem to push me toward reading the next one, "Lady of Avalon," more so then most of Bradley's books, which I find very individualistic (stand on their own) even if they are part of a series.
I have read "The Forest House" countless times and it never, ever gets old. The entire series is completely captivating. I fall in love with all of the characters every time I read. This book has opened a door of magic for me, and it can do the same for anyone... if they let it. Give yourself over to the possibility of a higher power.
I was apprehensive in reading this book. But by the first 5 pages you are entranced and sunk into the world of the book. I read it in 3 days!! I couldn't put it down. Though no book could compare to Mists of Avalon, this comes a close second. As usual Ms. Bradley writes her characters so real you feel as if they're in the same room as you or witnessing a scene in front of your eyes. Amazing effort!
The task of writing previous history to Mists of Avalon was probably daunting even for MZB. This story is beautiful. The transformation that Eilan goes through from beginning to end, and the pain that she feels and then won't let herself feel is exquisite. Caillean is such a strong woman, the archetypical mother, always there to take care of Eilan, however she needs Eilan's friendship as much as Eilan needs hers. Dieda, the songbird, a character that creates increasing distrust in the characters and the reader as the story progresses, but her bitterness with what life has dealt out to her is so HUMAN. Gaius, the roman man that Eilan loves, is not only torn because of Eilan's love (as she is with his), but torn between his Briton heritage (his mother was a royal of the Silure tribe) and his Roman heritage as a soldier in Rome's army. And the hard but touching ends that Gaius' father goes through to keep Eilan and Gaius appart because he doesn't want his son to be shunned by the Romans or to see the only woman he ever loved to be shut out from her own people the way that Gaius' mother was. These characters are so much more than fiction. I don't want to give anything of the plot away but it's difficult to write a review that's helpful without doing so. If I have failed, read the book. If I have succeeded, read the book. A.
I'm not exactly sure why I read this book. While I enjoyed "The Mists of Avalon", I wasn't wild about it. Niether was I wild about this prequel. But I did enjoy it. While "Mists" is more of a fantasy, "The Forest House" delves into early A.D. history and European religions. It starts out as a cute, boy-meets-girl-and-falls-in-love-though-they-can't-be-together story, but evolves into a detailed story of religion and politics. I think Bradley put a bit too much religion in there, and even though she was showing how people back then felt towards Christianity, I kind of felt like she was pushing in her own opinions. Unfortunatly, there is too much material, and it gets extremely twisted up together in an unattractive knot. it set off at a good pace, slowed down, almost got miserable, but the last few chapters are almost worth it all. In fact, I was quite pleased with the ending. If you're pagan and/or interested in early european history, I'm not going to stop you from reading this. But I'm not going to insist you read it, either.
Now I have read The Forest House three times to be certain I would give it a judicious review. In the end, I have to dismiss this book as a try on MZB's part to simulate a romance novel. Instead of subtlety I found moments of melodrama. The central romance was boring because Eilan and Gaius were boring (and wishy-washy and conceited and totally without a clue and...and...) I can't stand books in which the characters think themselves the center of the universe, and Forest House is full of these. On a smaller note, I found MZB's rendition of the Celtic Samhain into Samaine very amusing and indicative of the care with which this book was written. To top it off, this isn't even an original story--it's an interpretation of the opera Norma. Read if you must, but you might find having a grain of salt and good humor to be assets. For me personally The Forest House is too full of the ridiculous to affect me any more than with a sour stomach.
I loved this book. It was fantastic, thou maybe not a great as the Mists of Avalon it was amazing. I recommend it to people that are interested in early Britain times. And also I think that you will like it more if you read this book first. It is the story of Eilan Guis two people from completely different in a way, places and falling the love. The book then follows their lives, for around 30 years when they are reunited for one last time.
I can't understand some of the reviews and ratings, 5 stars isn't enough for this book. I couldn't put it down and read in 2 days. Absolutely wonderful!
In the Forest House, I found somewhat of a paradox. I am extraordinarily loyal to MZB, and practically went to the ends of human boundaries with MoA; it was truly an experience from a different astral plane.
While the Forest House was mystical and transcendent, I was rather frustrated by the prissiness of Vernemeton. However, I enjoyed it immensely, and found that MZB knit Roman and Celtic narratives seamlessly. I especially enjoyed the festivals such as Samhain and Beltane.
In MZB sensory details I identified Vernemeton as the mystical hiking trail in Calfornia which transports one to another time. With this novel, it helps to have pictures in your mind of what MZB is talking about.
Though Eilan's death didn't touch me as much as Viviane's did, it was still haunting. I would recommend Forest House both as a stepping-stone and a book unto itself.
I regard Marion Zimmer Bradley as probably the best author I have ever come across. I marvel at the research that she must put into her historical books and the depth of human emotions that she weaves in. All I can say about this book is that I cried throughout it and for about a week after; the final chapter stabbed at my soul as if it was telling the story of myself or my family.
I absolutely loves this book! It was dreamy, beautiful and romantic. Usually I'm not into books like that, but this one was different. The dramatic ending really made me appreciate it all the more...
Set in the Roman era, this book tells the story of the lives of the Priestesses who lived in The Forest House, a religious compound. This book provides excellent insight into the spirituality of the Celtic people and the holidays of the Druids. This was the first of the books in the Avalon series that I read, and it really touched me. Reading this book caused me to spend many hours wondering what was fact and what was fiction since the amount of historical detail is so immense.
Written just as well as "The Mists of Avalon," "The Forest House" was far more depressing. Heart-wrenching, even. It was a worthwhile and compelling read, however, and gives you a dose of genuine Arthurian emotion if you're craving it.
A story rich in magic, but no "Mists of Avalon"
I liked this book very much, although it could never reach the hights of "Mists of Avalon". The book is highly readable, and grips the reader tightly in a "Marion Zimmer Bradley" kind of way. Also, if you are interested in Druidic legends and story, you'll love this book. If you haven't read anything from this author, I'd recommend "Mists of Avalon", since that is the one of the best books I've read, and I've read a lot. The Forest House is a Very good book, although not an excelent book.
A great Addition to Mists of Avalon
Though I was expecting something a little more linked to Mists of Avalon, The Forest House made an excellent addition of both backround and originality. It being set hundreds of years before Mists, The book is a little confusing at first. For those who have read Mists already, you will find yourself scrounging for links to the next book, they are both near and far. The book is more detailed then Mists, and uses far more factual information about the Roman occupation of England which makes the book both more well rounded and yet at times like 11th grade history. The Novel differs from Mists in the fact that Magic and War does not play as large a part as in Mists. The importance is placed on the Romance and the History instead. I found the book to be an important addition to Mists, though not nearly as enrapturing.
An outstanding tale of strong human spirits
I read FOREST HOUSE before ever hearing of MISTS, and this novel is so good that it prompted me to go searching for MISTS. Eilan and Caillean are wonderful characters, and the beautiful ending always makes me cry. This is definitely one of the best books I've ever read
The set up-- that a young Druid Priestess shares a forbidden love with a half-breed Roman soldier that threatens to destroy both their worlds-- promises gory battles, love scenes, triumphs and tragedy. Marion Zimmer Bradley delivers all in spades. Focusing primarily on the females characters, she does a great job of arcing the main character, Eilan from care-free child to Warrior-Priestess. Zimmer Bradley gives us an interesting, extremely dense story that mixes action, magic and romance into a female-empowering tale. The characters are fairly sympathetic, especially when suffering frustrated love pangs, and thesub plots are just as intriguing as the main story line.
Though the story sometimes strays too much into Female Empowerment Land (thanks to chapters devoted to menstrual blood rites and spell casting), Forest House presents lots of cliffhangers and surprises. MUCH better than its sequel, LADY OF AVALON.
I am usually wary of prequels of successful works; however, my wariness was completely unwarranted. This novel complements The Mists of Avalon by introducing us to compelling characters who become truly viable progenitors of the characters in The Mists of Avalon. Even on its own merits, the book is an excellent read, exploring both the historic and fanciful aspects of the time period. If you enjoyed the Mists of Avalon, you will enjoy this book as well!
While I knew that Marion Zimmer Bradley also wrote the famous (and yet still unread by this reviewer) "Mists of Avalon", I was pretty sure that this book was a standalone when I read it. And it certainly felt like one! Good to know I picked a "prequel" and not a sequel.
"The Forest House" is a really nicely written fantasy/romance sort of novel. It's got this thick, intriguing plot. The plot is pretty complex as are some of the characters (some remain woefully flat throughout the book). I found that while it's not a literary masterpiece, it's certainly an enjoyable read.
What I liked least of all in "The Forest House" was the ending. While dramatic and impressive, I felt that one of the character's behavior was pretty... inappropriate and weird. On the whole, though, the story is cool. It's this big tale of powerful women, goddesses, rituals, and British/Roman politics. There are some cool bits of historical fiction, some neat fantastical parts, but mostly a romance, ethereal sort of tale. It's well-written and descriptive, full of clear images and really creates a good mood.
In the end, it's an enjoyable read. There are flaws in the book, for example among the characters, but despite that and things like the rambling length, it's a nice read. I can't compare it to "The Mists of Avalon", which I haven't read, but as a standalone it's pretty good.
Recommended to fantasy/romance fans who like thick books to disappear in.
"The Forest House" is a really nicely written fantasy/romance sort of novel. It's got this thick, intriguing plot. The plot is pretty complex as are some of the characters (some remain woefully flat throughout the book). I found that while it's not a literary masterpiece, it's certainly an enjoyable read.
What I liked least of all in "The Forest House" was the ending. While dramatic and impressive, I felt that one of the character's behavior was pretty... inappropriate and weird. On the whole, though, the story is cool. It's this big tale of powerful women, goddesses, rituals, and British/Roman politics. There are some cool bits of historical fiction, some neat fantastical parts, but mostly a romance, ethereal sort of tale. It's well-written and descriptive, full of clear images and really creates a good mood.
In the end, it's an enjoyable read. There are flaws in the book, for example among the characters, but despite that and things like the rambling length, it's a nice read. I can't compare it to "The Mists of Avalon", which I haven't read, but as a standalone it's pretty good.
Recommended to fantasy/romance fans who like thick books to disappear in.
This book was the first Marion book I read. I fell in love with the book after the first chapter. I recommend this book to any girl 13 years or older. A great love story that ends soooo good. After this read, I read The Mist of Avolon , and man I have to tell everyone that Marion is a great story teller of women!
After reading the Mists of Avalon, I eagerly anticipated another opportunity to get lost in a Marion Zimmer Bradley novel. Instead, I found the characters introduced too quickly with little background development. It was truly a struggle not to put the book back on the shelf and begin another. Finally, I found a bit of interest in the two main characters Eilan and Gauis. However, I never truly cared what happened to either of them. Chapter 23, involving Gauis, was so dull that I skipped 5-6 pages and the story continued as if they were not needed.
The only satisfaction I found in the novel was the story line of Caillean and the introduction of Avalon. I own The Lady of Avalon and The Priestess of Avalon, so I'm not ready to bid farewell to the works of Marion Zimmer Bradley based on this one book. I wonder, however, if the next segment in the story line could have summized this entire "history" in a single chapter and moved on.
The only satisfaction I found in the novel was the story line of Caillean and the introduction of Avalon. I own The Lady of Avalon and The Priestess of Avalon, so I'm not ready to bid farewell to the works of Marion Zimmer Bradley based on this one book. I wonder, however, if the next segment in the story line could have summized this entire "history" in a single chapter and moved on.
Marion Zimmer Bradley is Brilliant!!
The Forest House, the first of the Mists of Avalon series is a novel from a womens piont of view about history and the happenings of the world when Christianity was starting to drown out the other religions. It describes the hardships of those who beleived in the old ways and their struggle to make peace with those who thought they were "evil". Marion's unique style of writting makes the characters stand out in your mind and the conflicts seem more real and close to home. So don't be suprised if it even cathes up with you in your dreams.
Yet again tormentously amazing
even though i still can't bring myself to read the end of The Mists of Avalon, like with Little House series, i don't want to read the end till 18 and childhood is all over, it's still obvious Marion Zimmer Bradley was an astonishing storyteller. The Forrest House tells of how Avalon came to be the home of the priestesses. For an hour after reading it i just sat there staring at the cover lost in the world Bradley so beautifully lets readers into. If you like sci-fi, legend, historical fiction,romance, drama, or fantasy read this. Eilan wasn't perfect, but she did what she could even with mistakes. The druids were like the sacredness of religoun turned to the illusion of a cult. a must read no matter how old or who you are
mists of avalon was one of the first fantasy novels i ever read and has become one of my favorite books so when i found this one i immediately jumped at it. this prequel to mists is a great stories with wonderful characters but some of the elements of the plot are unbelievable and a little convoluted.
the story of girl chosen to be the priestess in roman britain who falls in love with a roman soldier and it all flows from there. but if you are looking for a passionate romance novel look elsewhere, because while there is love there is more suffering and deceit and the couple are only in a few chapters together.
while i loved this book for the beautiful story it is a little akward and definetly does not measure up to mists. but if you plan to read mists or the priestess of avalon which is the next book in this remarkable series you must read this to follow these amazing characters.
This a good book that I enjoyed. The story starts strong and is nicely done. The end was a bit rushed or odd, I take that to be an editorial thing.. Definately worth the read for all Fans of the era or of MZB in general.
This is a wonderful Celtic version of Romeo and Juliet and the first book in a series of 3. It's the tragic and Heartwrenching story of a roman soldier who falls in love with a Celtic girl dedicated to serving the goddess as a priestess. Like Romeo and Juliet it is told beautifully and in a spellbinding way that makes you feel as if you belong in the story. It's also really interesting as you learn about the different cultures, the simple and sometimes frightening lore of the Celts and the civilised yet brutal Roman society. Read this book - you really won't regret the wonderful journey it takes you on- I guarantee it will fill you with emotion and make you both smile and cry, and what's more you will be hooked on this series!
This was one of the most absorbing books I've ever read!
The characters in this book (Eilan, Gaius, Caillean) were almost interactive. If you ever wanted to know what is was like to live in Roman Britain this is a book you seriously need to read. The emotions that Marion Zimmer Bradley is able to portray in the characters are as real as the ones you feel while living this history. While it may not be non-fiction, it certainly is real!
This is not Mists and it's not supposed to be. It's a smaller story with inherently different characters. And it is a gem. Evocative of the gorgeous country it is set in, with characters that are painfully human and far from stock-beautiful, lyrical descriptions, which MZB always promises and always delivers.
"I loved it," It actually told of the times before morgaine of the fairies and other mysterious things in those times. I am glad that Marion Zimmer-Bradley had the guts to tell about a book that would frighten men, because it frightened my older brother that I had read a book giving me strength to go on, I was always feeble and shy before I read "The Forest House" and "The Mists of Avolon," Now I know that I am ready for the world.
Probably the best one of the series.
Although written as the second of what would ultimately become three novels about the priestesses of Avalon, The Forest House actually sets the stage for both of the other novels, beginning as it does in the farthest reaches of British history. Bradley takes the familiar theme of star-crossed lovers and tells it in her own special style.
In the time of The Forest House the Druids still hold a great deal of power and Rome is still fighting to prove their sovereignty over their unwilling British subjects. Gaius Macellius is the son of a Roman father and a British mother. Raised as a Roman, he still retains some of the knowledge and language of his mother's culture, and strongly resembles his mother's people. When he is hurt and rescued by native Britons, he is mistakenly identified as a Briton himself. Before he is able to clarify the situation, he realizes he is in the hands of highly placed Druids, enemies to the Romans. One of his caretakers is a young girl, Eilan, daughter of an important Druid leader and granddaughter to the Arch Druid. Before Eilan met Gaius, she dared to hope she might become a priestess of the Goddess. But, after these two young people meet, their hopes for the future change considerably. Despite the odds, each believes they are meant to be together. And it seems perhaps they are, but not in the way they hoped.
On its simplest level, this is a story of two young people, deeply in love but tragically separated by fate and political differences. As historical fiction, Bradley describes a turbulent period in Britain's history as the strength of the Druids declines and the Romans begin to assert their ultimate dominion over the native tribes. As with most of Bradley's work, this novel also has a mystical level, describing the ongoing relationship of the Goddess and her people. Bradley's characters are believable and the plot moves along at a steady pace. She shows how easily fate and circumstance can conspire to close off the alternate paths a person's life might take until only one choice is left. I thought this book was very well done, probably the best one of the series.
In the time of The Forest House the Druids still hold a great deal of power and Rome is still fighting to prove their sovereignty over their unwilling British subjects. Gaius Macellius is the son of a Roman father and a British mother. Raised as a Roman, he still retains some of the knowledge and language of his mother's culture, and strongly resembles his mother's people. When he is hurt and rescued by native Britons, he is mistakenly identified as a Briton himself. Before he is able to clarify the situation, he realizes he is in the hands of highly placed Druids, enemies to the Romans. One of his caretakers is a young girl, Eilan, daughter of an important Druid leader and granddaughter to the Arch Druid. Before Eilan met Gaius, she dared to hope she might become a priestess of the Goddess. But, after these two young people meet, their hopes for the future change considerably. Despite the odds, each believes they are meant to be together. And it seems perhaps they are, but not in the way they hoped.
On its simplest level, this is a story of two young people, deeply in love but tragically separated by fate and political differences. As historical fiction, Bradley describes a turbulent period in Britain's history as the strength of the Druids declines and the Romans begin to assert their ultimate dominion over the native tribes. As with most of Bradley's work, this novel also has a mystical level, describing the ongoing relationship of the Goddess and her people. Bradley's characters are believable and the plot moves along at a steady pace. She shows how easily fate and circumstance can conspire to close off the alternate paths a person's life might take until only one choice is left. I thought this book was very well done, probably the best one of the series.
It really could have been good. The story was very interesting. Unfortunately:
1. It was poorly written. SO many sentences did not make sense. I would have to go back and read and reread. It seems like she was trying to make it more wordy than it needed to be.
2. The characters were not developed. Except for Caillean. So I ended up with basically no attachment to the main characters. Was it really necessary to spend a few chapters on Gaius' career when we don't know jack about most other things in the book?
3. It seems like chapters are missing. This book should have been longer or had a bunch of half-finished plots left out. Like the ending. It seems like the ending was on fast forward. You might as well read Cliff Notes. I felt the same way about the end of Mists, too, but this was worse.
4. Can't somone just write a book that is "pagan friendly" yet not all about rape and torture and sacrifice? All these books are doing is making me hate the Romans and Christians of the time and leaving me with a sense of despair. I just want one book where they weren't all shown as heathen sacrificers and the Christians show them how to be civilized, "good people".
1. It was poorly written. SO many sentences did not make sense. I would have to go back and read and reread. It seems like she was trying to make it more wordy than it needed to be.
2. The characters were not developed. Except for Caillean. So I ended up with basically no attachment to the main characters. Was it really necessary to spend a few chapters on Gaius' career when we don't know jack about most other things in the book?
3. It seems like chapters are missing. This book should have been longer or had a bunch of half-finished plots left out. Like the ending. It seems like the ending was on fast forward. You might as well read Cliff Notes. I felt the same way about the end of Mists, too, but this was worse.
4. Can't somone just write a book that is "pagan friendly" yet not all about rape and torture and sacrifice? All these books are doing is making me hate the Romans and Christians of the time and leaving me with a sense of despair. I just want one book where they weren't all shown as heathen sacrificers and the Christians show them how to be civilized, "good people".
Women can be just as brutal as men
This is the story Miss Bradley wrote as a prequel to her magnum opus: "The Mists of Avalon." This story takes place in early Britannia and centres around an arch-druid and his family. One day his daughters and son finds an injured traveler, who turns out to be of the much despised Romans. As in many sad and tragic tales, the daughter of the Arch-druid, Eilean falls inlove with the soldier. Of course any marriage is out of question. So in the midst of invasions these two try to keep their "illegal" love a secret, even as she starts to go into priestess training. This is an excellent tale of both sides of love, the happiness and the sorrow that it can bring, especially the kind looked down upon by families. Excellent story, and worthy of Bradley's name.
Do yourself a favor and don't get the audio version
I read the book and I also listened ot it on tape(I know go figure). The story is a classic forumla boy meets girl, girl loses girl and so on. It is excellent and a nessacary step for all "Avalon" lovers-5 stars for the book
Now to the bad part
The audio edition: Only problem is the narator. She just goes on and on in a monotone no vocie inflection(I don't even think she stopped to breath!).
Overall-Read the book, don't get it on tape
I loved "The Mists of Avalon" and was pleased to find so many books by the same author in the Kindle book selection. Last weekend I began reading "The Forest House" and did not put it down for long. It has amazing insight into Mists and leaves the reader wanting more, which I am finding In "Priestess of Avalon" as well. As a Pagan and a practitioner of the lost arts I am pleased to find subject matter that relates to many of my spiritual beliefs. I can not wait to read everything that I can get my hands on by this author. And Bravo to Amazon.com for making this and all of her other books available for Kindle downloads.
The Mists of Avalon is my favorite book and I had been wanting to read this prequel for years. While nothing could surpass the original, The Forest House is a very good book in its own right. I enjoyed the story of the priestesses but found the focus on both Gaius and Cynric during battles and military maneuvering less interesting. Even though it is a prequel, I could see readers enjoying it without having to have read The Mists of Avalon. A highly entertaining read with less depth than the original.
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Eilan, the daughter of a Druidic warrior and granddaughter of Ardanos, Arch-Druid of Britannia, is gifted with the "sight" and has longed to serve the Goddess as a healer-priestess in the Forest House. She meets and falls in love with Gauis, a half Roman-half British youth, and son of the Roman Prefect Macellius Severus, second-in-command in Britainnia. They want to marry but are forbidden. Heartbroken, Eilan fulfills her original wish and dedicates herself to the Lady. Ms. Bradley blends a fascinating story with accurate research to give the reader a good picture of early Britain and the various political, cultural and religious factions, both local and Roman, which vied for power there.
Bradley's narrative is clear and her plot is believable, as are her characters. I prefer "The Mists of Avalon," not just because of the subject matter, but because the plot and characters are more complex. However, this is a solid novel with a sound plot and worth the read.
JANA