The Mists of Avalon is a beautifully written novel chronicling the lives and loves of the famous women of Arthurian legend. Morgaine of the Fairies, eternally misunderstood by conventional sources, tells her recollection of the events leading to the rise and fall of the High King of Camelot. Surrounded by a rich cast of characters, including Arthur, Gwenhwyfar, Lancelot, and the mysterious Lady of the Lake, the tragic heroine recounts her heavy destiny as a disgraced priestess of Avalon fighting against the Christianizing forces overtaking her beloved Britannia. Feminist in ideology and spiritual in nature, the novel is genuinely influenced by the personal life and beliefs of author Marion Zimmer Bradley. The only slight flaw is the inconsistent pacing of the story towards the latter half. Though arguably more fascinating, the heavily plot-driven conclusion contrasts sharply with the deliberate and contemplative flow of early tale.