Book description
In this exhilarating, moving novel set in modern and ancient Provence,
Guy Gavriel Kay casts brilliant light on the ways in which history -
whether of a culture or a family - refuses to be buried.
Ned Marriner, fifteen years old, has accompanied his photographer
father to Provence for a six-week “shoot” of images for a glossy
coffee-table book. Gradually, Ned discovers a very old story playing
itself out in this modern world of iPods, cellphones, and seven-seater
vans whipping along roads walked by Celtic tribes and the Roman Legions.
On one holy, haunted night of the ancient year, when the borders
between the living and the dead are down and fires are lit upon the
hills, Ned, his family, and his friends, are shockingly drawn into this
tale, as dangerous, mythic figures from conflicts of long ago erupt into
the present, claiming and changing lives. "Evocative writing …
fascinating characters … will enthrall mainstream as well as fantasy readers."
Publishers Weekly [starred review]
"Ysabel is a pure pleasure to read for fans of history, mythology
or pure highspirited adventure. It works on all levels."
Interzone
"An explorer of history and myths, Kay has a special affinity for
the people behind the larger-than-life legends that persist through
time. His latest fantasy blends time and place in a crossing of worlds
and universal truths. Highly recommended."
Library Journal (starred review)
"Outstanding characters, folklore, and action add up to another
Kay must-read."
Booklist
"Blending historical fantasy and psychological thriller with a
paranormal-powered coming-of-age tale, Ysabel will not only appeal to
adult fantasy readers but also to adolescents who have enjoyed authors
that feature compelling teen protagonists-such as J. K. Rowling and
Christopher Paolini."
Barnesandnoble. com
Kay's Ysabel is a wonderful read for lovers of historical novels, and
has all the qualities necessary to turn teenagers on to historical
novels, and to history."
Canadian Literature
"Kay's language is poetic and thought-provoking, and his
sensitively drawn characters are the perfect complement. This is a
mythic tale that will linger in the reader's mind long after the book is finished."
January 2007 Top Pick: Romantic Times Guy Gavriel Kay was born and
raised in Canada. In 1974-5 he spent a year in Oxford assisting
Christopher Tolkien in his editorial construction of J R R Tolkien's
posthumously published THE SILMARILLION. He took a law degree at the
University of Toronto on his return to Canada and was admitted to the
Bar of Ontario in 1981. Guy Gavriel Kay lives in Toronto
