cover image Magicians of Erianne

Magicians of Erianne

James R. Berry. HarperCollins Publishers, $13.95 (246pp) ISBN 978-0-06-020556-0

This exciting twist on the Arthurian legends should appeal strongly to YA fantasy readers. Ronan finds himself on the mythical island of Erianne, hurt and without his memory. He knows his name and that he's been studying magic, but can remember nothing else of his past except for a recurring dream that ends in violence. Taken to the wizard-dragon Yorba, Ronan soon picks up his studies in his new life, and when he's strong enough Yorba tells him he must return to Earth to find Excalibur. Once he is in England, Ronan realizes he is home, but remembers little else, and soon learns that Morgan le Fey is probably behind the theft of Excalibur. Ronan travels to her castle, where he is captured and told that he is Morgan's lost sonbut is he? Good characterizations, intricate subterfuge and a good sense of fun make this entertaining reading. And, as with Pamela Service's Winter of Magic's Return, the solution to the storythe puzzle of Ronan's identitywill charm readers. Ages 12-up. (July)