The Forever King

I can't say I overly enjoyed this book, but it wasn't bad either. It was the mention of Saladin that peaked my interest in the beginning, and really it was this character that held my interest throughout the book. I did not really grow attached to any of the other characters, even though they were the supposed protagonists. In addition, as the book progressed, things became less and less explained or believable.I very much liked the idea and story of the cup, of Kaana, and of Saladin. However, when Merlin's story was introduced, complete with his fledgling telepathic abilities and the awesome power hidden deep within, that was a little much. There is certainly a place in fantasy for wizards and druids, but in this book it felt out of place, almost as if it was added in an afterthought.Perhaps that sensation comes from the difference in the explanation; while the cup and its powers, while definitely supernatural, were limited and well explained, powers of Merlin or even Nimue were wholly "strange" and no attempt was made to explain them. I could wholly believe that a cup like that could exist in our world. I suppose the distinction lies in that had the cup been the only supernatural element in the book, I wouldn't hesitate to classify the book as sci-fi, while the addition of Merlin and Arthur and all that mess created some mean mixture of sci-fi and fantasy that did not work for me.Things got even worse with the addition of Arthur and Galahad being reborn, Camelot appearing on the site of its ruins, knights riding out and delivering the "heroes" from certain demise, and the dubious result of the match between Hal and Saladin. There was no cohesion there at all, it was just a collection of random bits that did not in any way fit together.Had the authors contented themselves with the story of the cup and left all the familiar and worn-out Arthurian elements in peace, I feel the book would have been much better. It would give a different and fresh perspective on the Holy Grail, which would have been welcome. As it is, the latter part of the book is not worth the paper it's printed on. ( )

I highly enjoyed this imaginative take on the Arthur legend. Arthur returns--as a young boy living in the modern day. He finds a mysterious cup (the Holy Grail), which puts the bad guys--led by the evil Saladin--on his tale. And Galahad, his loyal knight is also around, as is Merlin but in guises suited for the modern age. It's a rollicking good adventure story and I highly reccomend it for fans of adventure, especially if you enjoy Arthurian legends. ( )

In my opinion, the best book of the trilogy. But, not one of my favorite books in general. ( )

Once and Future - Arthus revisiting, 28. Dez. 2002
A beautiful, intelligent and promising retelling of Arthurian legend together with an interesting reinterpretation of Christ`s Cup/The Holy Grail.
I just finished reading the book for the sixth or seventh time and still like it very much. ( )