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King Arthur #3
The Bloody Cup
For many years, the people of Briton have enjoyed peace and prosperity under the reign of King Artor and the Union of Kings. Having spurned the despotism of his predecessor, Uther Pendragon, Arthur has ruled with a strong sense of duty, goodness and honour.
Artor is now weakening with age, however, and the seeds of discontent are being sown. Seeking to cleanse the land of Christian belief, dissenters need a symbol with which to legitimise their pagan claim and gather malcontents together into a cohesive weapon. These shadowy, subversive elements seize upon the ancient cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury as a way of fragmenting Artor’s hard-fought-for kingdom. But first, they must lay their hands on the relic and, in doing so, unleash a force for evil from which murder and violent mayhem ensue.
But it emerges that the ultimate threat to Artor’s rule lies far closer to home; Artor is betrayed by kin. Celt will slay Celt and the river will run with blood.
580 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
31 people are currently reading
951 people want to read
About the author
M.K. Hume
24 books159 followersMarilyn K. Hume is an Australian author, born in 1948, and based in Brisbane, Australia.
Hume graduated as a teacher in 1967, specializing in Art and Ancient History before commencing teaching high school students. While teaching, she studied university courses as an external student in English and Ancient History. Along the way, Hume obtained a BA, an MA, a Master of Literary Studies degree and a Phd in Arthurian Literature.
In 1996, Hume was encouraged to enter an historical romance writing competition conducted by the Random House Publishing Group under the sponsorship of a popular women’s magazine. Hume had no interest in romance writing, but she dashed off a novel based on her family history. The novel won second prize from a massive field of recognised authors - and she won $5,000 for her efforts.
In 2007, Hume retired from the Queensland Education Department, and immediately commenced to write a trilogy based on the life and times of King Arthur of Britain.
Hume’s agent, the Dorie Simmonds Agency in London, brokered a contract with Headline Review to publish the three books in the trilogy. This agreement soon became six books, for Hume soon produced a further trilogy on the life and times of Merlin, which is now a prequel to the Arthurian trilogy.
Her works are now published at six-monthly intervals, and the author maintains a punishing schedule involving eight hours of research and/or writing every day. She doesn’t believe that there is any such thing as ‘writer’s block’, and loves the whole creative process.
Hume intends to write at least 30 novels before ‘she drops off the perch’. She reads voraciously and adores meeting friends, attending rummage sales, making porcelain dolls and painting portraits.
Hume graduated as a teacher in 1967, specializing in Art and Ancient History before commencing teaching high school students. While teaching, she studied university courses as an external student in English and Ancient History. Along the way, Hume obtained a BA, an MA, a Master of Literary Studies degree and a Phd in Arthurian Literature.
In 1996, Hume was encouraged to enter an historical romance writing competition conducted by the Random House Publishing Group under the sponsorship of a popular women’s magazine. Hume had no interest in romance writing, but she dashed off a novel based on her family history. The novel won second prize from a massive field of recognised authors - and she won $5,000 for her efforts.
In 2007, Hume retired from the Queensland Education Department, and immediately commenced to write a trilogy based on the life and times of King Arthur of Britain.
Hume’s agent, the Dorie Simmonds Agency in London, brokered a contract with Headline Review to publish the three books in the trilogy. This agreement soon became six books, for Hume soon produced a further trilogy on the life and times of Merlin, which is now a prequel to the Arthurian trilogy.
Her works are now published at six-monthly intervals, and the author maintains a punishing schedule involving eight hours of research and/or writing every day. She doesn’t believe that there is any such thing as ‘writer’s block’, and loves the whole creative process.
Hume intends to write at least 30 novels before ‘she drops off the perch’. She reads voraciously and adores meeting friends, attending rummage sales, making porcelain dolls and painting portraits.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 8, 2014
This was the WORST arthurian novel I have ever read. There may be worse written books around but not one of them made me roll my eyes and grumple in anger like this one. I found it sexist, boring and full of lazy writing.
I’ll address the boring part, first. The first and the second book of the trilogy are far better, in my opinion, especially the second book where Hume amazed me with wonderful and exciting descriptions of battles and war strategy. In this third novel there is a mix of different themes and many things felt too slow, in my opinion or as if Hume wasn’t really sure what to add or what to do with her characters. Still I liked how she managed th Grail stuff and the quest, it was an original idea even if it left me confused in some parts (was it supernatural? Was is just human obsession?). Talking about things I liked, I like Bedwyr and Percival because their character are really pleasant and interesting and so was Taliesin who was a clever way to use an old arthurian character often ignored.
Talking about things I didn’t like.
I’ll address the boring part, first. The first and the second book of the trilogy are far better, in my opinion, especially the second book where Hume amazed me with wonderful and exciting descriptions of battles and war strategy. In this third novel there is a mix of different themes and many things felt too slow, in my opinion or as if Hume wasn’t really sure what to add or what to do with her characters. Still I liked how she managed th Grail stuff and the quest, it was an original idea even if it left me confused in some parts (was it supernatural? Was is just human obsession?). Talking about things I liked, I like Bedwyr and Percival because their character are really pleasant and interesting and so was Taliesin who was a clever way to use an old arthurian character often ignored.
Talking about things I didn’t like.
December 29, 2018
This excellent book is the 3rd and final volume of the wonderful King Arthur trilogy.
Once again I like to say that the tale is told in a very dedicated and passionate way by the author, and that it pictures Celtic Britain in a most remarkable fashion.
All the characters within the book come vividly to life yet again in this heartfelt story while the atmosphere of the times really comes of the pages.
The story itself is about King Artor, High King of the Britons, who's now weakening with age and who's now threatened from without as well as from within his Kingdom.
From without dissenters and believers of the pagan faith will try to steal the ancient cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury, an act that will unleash a force for evil from which murder and mayhem will finally unsue.
But the ultimate threat to Artor's rule comes from within when Artor is betrayed by kin, and so Celt will slay Celt in the end.
This is a fantastic heartfelt tale of a thrilling trilogy, one that will end with "A Truly Fascinating Finale"!
Once again I like to say that the tale is told in a very dedicated and passionate way by the author, and that it pictures Celtic Britain in a most remarkable fashion.
All the characters within the book come vividly to life yet again in this heartfelt story while the atmosphere of the times really comes of the pages.
The story itself is about King Artor, High King of the Britons, who's now weakening with age and who's now threatened from without as well as from within his Kingdom.
From without dissenters and believers of the pagan faith will try to steal the ancient cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury, an act that will unleash a force for evil from which murder and mayhem will finally unsue.
But the ultimate threat to Artor's rule comes from within when Artor is betrayed by kin, and so Celt will slay Celt in the end.
This is a fantastic heartfelt tale of a thrilling trilogy, one that will end with "A Truly Fascinating Finale"!
August 23, 2018
This was a brilliant ending to a fantastic trilogy. It was fascinating to see how the author dealt with Artor as an ageing King and how he worked to maintain his legacy. Everything surrounding the final battle was heartbreaking and so moving - I was in tears more than once. I really liked this retelling as I felt like the characters were more realistic and sympathetic than some of the more fantastical versions. I would highly recommend this trilogy.
June 9, 2020
Esperaba un poco más de este último libro ya que era la conclusión de al saga del rey Arturo, el libro iba creciendo junto con la trama para una batalla épica, pero a mi parace fue demasiado corta, no le doy menos por que los 2 de libros anteriores estuvieron muchísimo mejor.
January 16, 2016
I must say that this is one of favourite Arthurian retellings along with Mary Stewart's Merlin series and Nancy McKenzies Queen of Camelot duo.
This trilogy by Hume is firmly in the Romano-Celtic frame of reference in the tradition of Rosemary Sutcliff and Jack Whyte.
The third in the trilogy Arthur is now an aging monarch, and his evil son Mordered , king of the Brigantes is plotting insurrection and against his father and stirring up subversion.
Mordred also is exposed at diabolical, sadistic and perverted sexual pursuits aimed at anything vulnerable.
The Queen Wenwyvar is as petulant and spiteful as ever, and engages in her promiscuity without respite despite getting on in years.
Morgan is still cuahgt up in her wicked wiles and hatred
Nimue is a wise and strong mother, surviving her late husband, Myrddion and sends her eldest son the bard Taliesin to Arthur's court.
Morgause's son Gawaine has a vast sexual appetite and weakness for attractive women but is otherwise loyal to Arthur while his son Galahad is a religious fanatic puritanical prig , self -righteous and without the attribute of mercy.
His companions in hunting for the Holy Grail are Bedyr, Arhtur's lifelong companion, once enslaved by the Saxons, and the valiant and true Perzival.
The Grail is of Jewish origin from the Land of Israel and not Saxon, roman or Celtic
The murderer Gronw and the Lady Mirrell are part of a movement called the Cup of Ceridwen which aims to destroy Arthur's kigdom and Christianity and restore the pagan ways of old and will stop at nothing to do so
But Mordred is behind all the mayhem and murder.
Arthur's grandsons the twins Balan and Balyn are sent on their own missions and also add a twist in the tale.
Ends in tragedy but with the promise of deliverance. But this book was a stunning finale full of action, intrigue, strong characterization, bloodshed , treachery and passion. A stunning finale to an absorbing trilogy.
This trilogy by Hume is firmly in the Romano-Celtic frame of reference in the tradition of Rosemary Sutcliff and Jack Whyte.
The third in the trilogy Arthur is now an aging monarch, and his evil son Mordered , king of the Brigantes is plotting insurrection and against his father and stirring up subversion.
Mordred also is exposed at diabolical, sadistic and perverted sexual pursuits aimed at anything vulnerable.
The Queen Wenwyvar is as petulant and spiteful as ever, and engages in her promiscuity without respite despite getting on in years.
Morgan is still cuahgt up in her wicked wiles and hatred
Nimue is a wise and strong mother, surviving her late husband, Myrddion and sends her eldest son the bard Taliesin to Arthur's court.
Morgause's son Gawaine has a vast sexual appetite and weakness for attractive women but is otherwise loyal to Arthur while his son Galahad is a religious fanatic puritanical prig , self -righteous and without the attribute of mercy.
His companions in hunting for the Holy Grail are Bedyr, Arhtur's lifelong companion, once enslaved by the Saxons, and the valiant and true Perzival.
The Grail is of Jewish origin from the Land of Israel and not Saxon, roman or Celtic
The murderer Gronw and the Lady Mirrell are part of a movement called the Cup of Ceridwen which aims to destroy Arthur's kigdom and Christianity and restore the pagan ways of old and will stop at nothing to do so
But Mordred is behind all the mayhem and murder.
Arthur's grandsons the twins Balan and Balyn are sent on their own missions and also add a twist in the tale.
Ends in tragedy but with the promise of deliverance. But this book was a stunning finale full of action, intrigue, strong characterization, bloodshed , treachery and passion. A stunning finale to an absorbing trilogy.
March 12, 2015
I've spent almost a year with this version of these characters in reading all six books in this series. Boy, will I miss them all. I cannot speak highly enough of M. K. Hume's writing style, research and characterization. To anyone who likes historical fiction, this series is for you.
And to Arthur, or Artos, or Artor, I raise my cup to your legend and hope your legend continues to inspire people for as long as we tell stories.
And to Arthur, or Artos, or Artor, I raise my cup to your legend and hope your legend continues to inspire people for as long as we tell stories.
April 5, 2014
I am officially a fan of M.K. Hume now. I quite loved this trilogy about King Artor and his times, especially how she's managed to take a legend and weave a believable story around it much like Victoria Grossack and Alice Underwood. I did not want this book to end at all which is why it took me so long to read. Give it a try even if you don't much care for Arthurian fiction.
August 20, 2012
I found this a disappointing end to an otherwise compelling series. It struck me at times that the author had a third boom to write so it was provided. The story lacked the flow of the earlier books and was all very obvious.
November 18, 2017
I loved this series.
December 20, 2013
Originally published at Risingshadow.
M. K. Hume's The Bloody Cup is the culmination of The King Arthur Trilogy. Everything that has happened before has been almost like a prelude to the happenings in this novel. The Blood Cup ends the epic story of King Arthur in a brilliant way. It's powerful story that will be of interest to readers of historical fiction and speculative fiction. I think that everybody who likes good historical fiction will find this novel interesting.
Now that I've read the whole trilogy I can say that M. K. Hume has created a truly original and compelling vision of King Arthur, his life, his family and his deeds. There are several novels about King Arthur, but M. K. Hume's retelling of this famous legend is something different, because she stays true to her own vision.
The King Arthur Trilogy is a perfect example of good storytelling that tells a huge story arc from the humble beginning to the tragic end. The author has a gift for storytelling, because she has created a complex story arc that will fascinate, horrify and surprise the readers. Parts of the story arc were revealed in the two previous novels, but now the author gets to show how things end and how bitter and tragic the ending is for certain characters.
Here's information about the story:
- The first novel, Dragon's Child, told how King Arthur rose to power. The second novel, Warrior of the West, told about King Arthur's battle against the saxons and his doomed marriage to Wenhaver. This novel, The Bloody Cup, tells about King Arthur's later days and death.
- At the beginning of the novel traitors are preparing to take action so that Artor shall fall. The Cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury will be the tool that they're going to use in their mission.
- Balyn and Balan, the grandchildren of Artor, come to Cadbury Tor. Morgan sees a powerful vision about a cup filled and overflowed with blood. Nimue sends her son, Taliesin, to Cadbury. Galahad's celibacy and opinions about religion and other things irritate his father, Gawayne. Gawayne and Galahad meet beautiful Miryll while they're travelling together. Modred arrives at Cadbury Tor...
Because several things happen in this novel and I want to avoid writing too many spoilers, I won't write more about the story. I'll only mention that the story is great and the author expertly moves it along.
The author writes well about old and familiar characters, but she also introduces new characters. The characters are interesting, because the author has created believable characters who have different problems. It's nice that she manages to make the reader care for the characters and their fates - depending on what happens to them, you'll either feel glad or sad for them and wonder what's going to happen to them.
Here's a bit of information about the familiar characters:
- Artor has aged, but he is still a handsome and respected king.
- Wenhaver, Artor's wife, is also older than before, but her behaviour hasn't changed. She behaves as badly and cruelly as before.
- Morgan is also still as malicious as ever and harbours a deep rooted hatred towards Artor.
- Nimue is alone, because her husband, Myrddion, has passed away. She hears voices in the wind.
- Bedwyr is getting married to Elayne.
And here's a bit of information about some of the new characters:
- Modred is an illegitimate son of Morgaus and a Brigante noble. He's come to Artor's court and causes problems.
- Miryll, the mistress of Saliane Minor, has an interesting role to play in the story and her fate is also interesting.
- Gronw, the man in Saliane Minor, is also a fascinating character, but I won't write much about him, because I might reveal too much information about the story, because he is an important character. I'll just mention that he is a spiritual adviser of Miryll.
- Taliesin is the son of Nimue and Myrddion. He travels to Artor's court and charms people with his singing and music.
The character interaction works well and the dialogues and thoughts of the characters are genuinely interesting. For example, it was interesting to read what Artor thought about Wenhaver and how others felt about her, because all seemed to think that Artor could've found a better wife for himself.
Reading about the marriage between Artor and Wenhaver was fascinating, because their marriage was anything but happy. Their marriage was as unhappy and furious as it could be, because both of them despised each other (their situation tormented them). The conversations between Artor and Wenhaver were fantastic and they reminded me a bit of the conversations in several new and brutal fantasy novels.
It was also enjoyable to read about the meeting between Artor and Morgan, because they didn't like each other very much. Her news were of great importance and it was fascinating to see her visit Cadbury Tor.
I enjoyed reading about the women in Artor's life, because each of them had a purpose in the great plan of things to come. The author writes fantastically about the female characters and their lives, because all of them have a role to play in this novel.
The threat to Artor's reign is handled exceptionally well. The author writes intriguingly about the opposers of Artor and their deeds. It was interesting to read to what lengths they went to get rid of Artor. For example, the attack to Glastonbury was a powerfully written scene.
The religious elements were also handled fluently. The author wrote fascinatingly about how people felt about Christianity and how some of them wanted to see the return of the old ways. I enjoyed reading about these things, because the clashes between old and new religions have always been of interest to me (it was especially enjoyable to read about Gronw and his thoughts about religion).
The ancient Cup of Bishop Lucius is an important item in this novel, because it is used as a tool to get rid of Artor and his reign. The author wrote surprisingly well about the cup and its history, because its history and signifigance was revealed gradually.
M. K. Hume writes boldly and fluently about lust, sex, sexuality. She writes about the needs of the characters and what they do with their sexuality in a compelling way. For example, reading about Gawayne and his thoughts about sex was interesting, because he didn't live in celibacy and enjoyed sex.
What makes this novel so intriguing is that it contains beauty, joy, hopefulness, sadness, despair, terror and grittiness in equal measures. Balancing between these things is difficult, but the author manages to do it and she does it well. I respect the author for having the courage to write about dark and grim happenings in an uncompromising way that reinforces the happenings. Her original - and often brutal - vision of the happenings is something different, and what's best, she knows how to keep the story interesting.
When the author writes about dark, bloody and gritty happenings, she does it in a brilliant way by writing openly about violence. Some of the scenes are shocking and violent, because she describes how heads are hacked off and how blood spurts out of the wounds etc. I think that everybody who likes dark fantasy, gritty adult fantasy and horror novels, will enjoy these scenes. These scenes will also appeal to readers who are used to readers gritty historical fiction.
There's a beautifully melancholy atmosphere in several scenes, because the characters are older and think about their lives and their deeds. The characters aren't as young as they were earlier and most of them have done things that they aren't proud of or feel remorse about what they've done, but have learned to live with their choices and the consequences of the choices. It's great that the characters feel the passing of time and acknowledge the fact that they shall soon pass away and only their heirs shall be left behind to take care of the kingdom.
I like it very much that M. K. Hume tells how the actions of the characters affect them and those near them. It's also good that she shows that some of the characters fear that they aren't strong enough to play their parts in what's about to happen. This added depth to the storyline.
One of the best things about this novel and the whole trilogy is that M. K. Hume doesn't sugarcoat the happenings. She shows how life was in ancient times and how people lived their lives. She dares to write boldly about brutal happenings and the evil that men do to each other. I loved the way she wrote the lives of the people and how they handled such things as love, death and betrayals. The detailed descriptions about these things were wonderful.
When I read this novel and the previous novel, I noticed that M. K. Hume seems to love storytelling. She writes passionately about the characters and the happenings, and does her best to deliver an entertaining story that will both entertain and surprise her readers. She pays quite a lot of attention to small details that are important in the great story arc.
Just like the previous novels, this novel contains only a few fantastical elements, because the author uses them sparingly. This is good, because these elements are intriguing when they're used this way. The visions that the characters see are fascinating (they add an interesting touch of fantasy to the storyline).
It's possible that there are readers who try to compare this trilogy to Bernard Cornwell's trilogy. In my opinion there's no need for comparison, because M. K. Hume's vision of the Arthurian legend differs quite a lot from Cornwell's vision. Considering how many novels have already been written about the Arthurian legend, it's amazing that M. K. Hume has managed to write a unique and fascinating Arthurian trilogy, which is fluently written entertainment from start to finish.
Before I write the final words of this review, I'll mention that there good maps in this novel. I'll also mention that I liked the cover art.
Because I enjoyed reading this trilogy, I'll try to read the author's Merlin trilogy in the near future. I've heard good things about it, so it'll go to my reading list. It'll be interesting to see what kind of a trilogy it is, because this trilogy is fantastic.
If you're interested in the Arthurian legend and historical happenings and like to read historical fiction, you should put this novel (and the other novels in this trilogy) to your reading list. M. K. Hume's vision of King Arthur is something different and the story is captivating. This novel is fascinating entertainment for everybody who enjoys reading historical fiction and historical fantasy. I'm sure that readers who begin to read this novel will be turning pages to find out what happens next and how the story ends.
Excellent entertainment for adult readers!
M. K. Hume's The Bloody Cup is the culmination of The King Arthur Trilogy. Everything that has happened before has been almost like a prelude to the happenings in this novel. The Blood Cup ends the epic story of King Arthur in a brilliant way. It's powerful story that will be of interest to readers of historical fiction and speculative fiction. I think that everybody who likes good historical fiction will find this novel interesting.
Now that I've read the whole trilogy I can say that M. K. Hume has created a truly original and compelling vision of King Arthur, his life, his family and his deeds. There are several novels about King Arthur, but M. K. Hume's retelling of this famous legend is something different, because she stays true to her own vision.
The King Arthur Trilogy is a perfect example of good storytelling that tells a huge story arc from the humble beginning to the tragic end. The author has a gift for storytelling, because she has created a complex story arc that will fascinate, horrify and surprise the readers. Parts of the story arc were revealed in the two previous novels, but now the author gets to show how things end and how bitter and tragic the ending is for certain characters.
Here's information about the story:
- The first novel, Dragon's Child, told how King Arthur rose to power. The second novel, Warrior of the West, told about King Arthur's battle against the saxons and his doomed marriage to Wenhaver. This novel, The Bloody Cup, tells about King Arthur's later days and death.
- At the beginning of the novel traitors are preparing to take action so that Artor shall fall. The Cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury will be the tool that they're going to use in their mission.
- Balyn and Balan, the grandchildren of Artor, come to Cadbury Tor. Morgan sees a powerful vision about a cup filled and overflowed with blood. Nimue sends her son, Taliesin, to Cadbury. Galahad's celibacy and opinions about religion and other things irritate his father, Gawayne. Gawayne and Galahad meet beautiful Miryll while they're travelling together. Modred arrives at Cadbury Tor...
Because several things happen in this novel and I want to avoid writing too many spoilers, I won't write more about the story. I'll only mention that the story is great and the author expertly moves it along.
The author writes well about old and familiar characters, but she also introduces new characters. The characters are interesting, because the author has created believable characters who have different problems. It's nice that she manages to make the reader care for the characters and their fates - depending on what happens to them, you'll either feel glad or sad for them and wonder what's going to happen to them.
Here's a bit of information about the familiar characters:
- Artor has aged, but he is still a handsome and respected king.
- Wenhaver, Artor's wife, is also older than before, but her behaviour hasn't changed. She behaves as badly and cruelly as before.
- Morgan is also still as malicious as ever and harbours a deep rooted hatred towards Artor.
- Nimue is alone, because her husband, Myrddion, has passed away. She hears voices in the wind.
- Bedwyr is getting married to Elayne.
And here's a bit of information about some of the new characters:
- Modred is an illegitimate son of Morgaus and a Brigante noble. He's come to Artor's court and causes problems.
- Miryll, the mistress of Saliane Minor, has an interesting role to play in the story and her fate is also interesting.
- Gronw, the man in Saliane Minor, is also a fascinating character, but I won't write much about him, because I might reveal too much information about the story, because he is an important character. I'll just mention that he is a spiritual adviser of Miryll.
- Taliesin is the son of Nimue and Myrddion. He travels to Artor's court and charms people with his singing and music.
The character interaction works well and the dialogues and thoughts of the characters are genuinely interesting. For example, it was interesting to read what Artor thought about Wenhaver and how others felt about her, because all seemed to think that Artor could've found a better wife for himself.
Reading about the marriage between Artor and Wenhaver was fascinating, because their marriage was anything but happy. Their marriage was as unhappy and furious as it could be, because both of them despised each other (their situation tormented them). The conversations between Artor and Wenhaver were fantastic and they reminded me a bit of the conversations in several new and brutal fantasy novels.
It was also enjoyable to read about the meeting between Artor and Morgan, because they didn't like each other very much. Her news were of great importance and it was fascinating to see her visit Cadbury Tor.
I enjoyed reading about the women in Artor's life, because each of them had a purpose in the great plan of things to come. The author writes fantastically about the female characters and their lives, because all of them have a role to play in this novel.
The threat to Artor's reign is handled exceptionally well. The author writes intriguingly about the opposers of Artor and their deeds. It was interesting to read to what lengths they went to get rid of Artor. For example, the attack to Glastonbury was a powerfully written scene.
The religious elements were also handled fluently. The author wrote fascinatingly about how people felt about Christianity and how some of them wanted to see the return of the old ways. I enjoyed reading about these things, because the clashes between old and new religions have always been of interest to me (it was especially enjoyable to read about Gronw and his thoughts about religion).
The ancient Cup of Bishop Lucius is an important item in this novel, because it is used as a tool to get rid of Artor and his reign. The author wrote surprisingly well about the cup and its history, because its history and signifigance was revealed gradually.
M. K. Hume writes boldly and fluently about lust, sex, sexuality. She writes about the needs of the characters and what they do with their sexuality in a compelling way. For example, reading about Gawayne and his thoughts about sex was interesting, because he didn't live in celibacy and enjoyed sex.
What makes this novel so intriguing is that it contains beauty, joy, hopefulness, sadness, despair, terror and grittiness in equal measures. Balancing between these things is difficult, but the author manages to do it and she does it well. I respect the author for having the courage to write about dark and grim happenings in an uncompromising way that reinforces the happenings. Her original - and often brutal - vision of the happenings is something different, and what's best, she knows how to keep the story interesting.
When the author writes about dark, bloody and gritty happenings, she does it in a brilliant way by writing openly about violence. Some of the scenes are shocking and violent, because she describes how heads are hacked off and how blood spurts out of the wounds etc. I think that everybody who likes dark fantasy, gritty adult fantasy and horror novels, will enjoy these scenes. These scenes will also appeal to readers who are used to readers gritty historical fiction.
There's a beautifully melancholy atmosphere in several scenes, because the characters are older and think about their lives and their deeds. The characters aren't as young as they were earlier and most of them have done things that they aren't proud of or feel remorse about what they've done, but have learned to live with their choices and the consequences of the choices. It's great that the characters feel the passing of time and acknowledge the fact that they shall soon pass away and only their heirs shall be left behind to take care of the kingdom.
I like it very much that M. K. Hume tells how the actions of the characters affect them and those near them. It's also good that she shows that some of the characters fear that they aren't strong enough to play their parts in what's about to happen. This added depth to the storyline.
One of the best things about this novel and the whole trilogy is that M. K. Hume doesn't sugarcoat the happenings. She shows how life was in ancient times and how people lived their lives. She dares to write boldly about brutal happenings and the evil that men do to each other. I loved the way she wrote the lives of the people and how they handled such things as love, death and betrayals. The detailed descriptions about these things were wonderful.
When I read this novel and the previous novel, I noticed that M. K. Hume seems to love storytelling. She writes passionately about the characters and the happenings, and does her best to deliver an entertaining story that will both entertain and surprise her readers. She pays quite a lot of attention to small details that are important in the great story arc.
Just like the previous novels, this novel contains only a few fantastical elements, because the author uses them sparingly. This is good, because these elements are intriguing when they're used this way. The visions that the characters see are fascinating (they add an interesting touch of fantasy to the storyline).
It's possible that there are readers who try to compare this trilogy to Bernard Cornwell's trilogy. In my opinion there's no need for comparison, because M. K. Hume's vision of the Arthurian legend differs quite a lot from Cornwell's vision. Considering how many novels have already been written about the Arthurian legend, it's amazing that M. K. Hume has managed to write a unique and fascinating Arthurian trilogy, which is fluently written entertainment from start to finish.
Before I write the final words of this review, I'll mention that there good maps in this novel. I'll also mention that I liked the cover art.
Because I enjoyed reading this trilogy, I'll try to read the author's Merlin trilogy in the near future. I've heard good things about it, so it'll go to my reading list. It'll be interesting to see what kind of a trilogy it is, because this trilogy is fantastic.
If you're interested in the Arthurian legend and historical happenings and like to read historical fiction, you should put this novel (and the other novels in this trilogy) to your reading list. M. K. Hume's vision of King Arthur is something different and the story is captivating. This novel is fascinating entertainment for everybody who enjoys reading historical fiction and historical fantasy. I'm sure that readers who begin to read this novel will be turning pages to find out what happens next and how the story ends.
Excellent entertainment for adult readers!
May 16, 2024
Finalizando essa diferente trilogia temos Artor agora na terceira idade e tendo um vislumbre de tudo o que seu pai biológico, Uther Pendragon, passou ao final de sua vida.
Não tendo gerado herdeiro legítimos, a corte se enche de parentes e postulantes ao trono, que desejam ser o herdeiro do Grande Rei. E ele precisa lidar com essas intrigas e jogos políticos enquanto busca alguém para sucedê-lo e manter tudo o que ele construiu ao longo de seu reinado.
Ainda, precisa lidar com o envelhecimento e morte de seus pares e os Saxões sentindo que o guerreiro do Oeste está ficando velho e fraco e, com isso, ameaçando um novo e poderoso ataque. E, dentro do seu reino, uma rebelião fundamentada na religião e na manipulação surge para tirar Artor de seu trono.
O volume começa muito bem. Mostrando Artor já envelhecido, ficando fraco. Mas ainda envolto em poder e com uma corte de súditos leais e honrados. Aos poucos, vão aparecendo personagens mais jovens que fazem parte das lendas arthurianas e paira uma dúvida sobre quem será escolhido como herdeiro pois alguns possuem argumentos mais fortes do que outros.
Todo esse desenvolvimento, junto com a busca pelo cálice, uma relíquia potencialmente sagrada, formam um bom livro pra terminar a trilogia. O ponto negativo é que não existe surpresa. Não fica uma dúvida sobre o que vai acontecer com o cálice, quem irá encontrá-lo e quem é o traidor por trás dos vários problemas que aparecem. Logo, é uma leitura que não prende tanto pois é tudo muito fácil de ser entendido. E isso é um ponto negativo.
Outro ponto negativo é como o personagem principal é um homem falho e totalmente diferente da figura que conhecemos através de outros recontos das lendas. Tudo isso é explicado ao final do livro, as motivações e razões que fizeram o Eterno Rei agir como agiu em diferentes situações ao longo dos anos e o que de fato sobreviveu ao tempo do que conhecemos de figura. Mas é fator que tira um pouco do brilho da boa trilogia que foi construída.
O final, pós último conflito, fecha com maestria.
Não tendo gerado herdeiro legítimos, a corte se enche de parentes e postulantes ao trono, que desejam ser o herdeiro do Grande Rei. E ele precisa lidar com essas intrigas e jogos políticos enquanto busca alguém para sucedê-lo e manter tudo o que ele construiu ao longo de seu reinado.
Ainda, precisa lidar com o envelhecimento e morte de seus pares e os Saxões sentindo que o guerreiro do Oeste está ficando velho e fraco e, com isso, ameaçando um novo e poderoso ataque. E, dentro do seu reino, uma rebelião fundamentada na religião e na manipulação surge para tirar Artor de seu trono.
O volume começa muito bem. Mostrando Artor já envelhecido, ficando fraco. Mas ainda envolto em poder e com uma corte de súditos leais e honrados. Aos poucos, vão aparecendo personagens mais jovens que fazem parte das lendas arthurianas e paira uma dúvida sobre quem será escolhido como herdeiro pois alguns possuem argumentos mais fortes do que outros.
Todo esse desenvolvimento, junto com a busca pelo cálice, uma relíquia potencialmente sagrada, formam um bom livro pra terminar a trilogia. O ponto negativo é que não existe surpresa. Não fica uma dúvida sobre o que vai acontecer com o cálice, quem irá encontrá-lo e quem é o traidor por trás dos vários problemas que aparecem. Logo, é uma leitura que não prende tanto pois é tudo muito fácil de ser entendido. E isso é um ponto negativo.
Outro ponto negativo é como o personagem principal é um homem falho e totalmente diferente da figura que conhecemos através de outros recontos das lendas. Tudo isso é explicado ao final do livro, as motivações e razões que fizeram o Eterno Rei agir como agiu em diferentes situações ao longo dos anos e o que de fato sobreviveu ao tempo do que conhecemos de figura. Mas é fator que tira um pouco do brilho da boa trilogia que foi construída.
O final, pós último conflito, fecha com maestria.
July 11, 2018
No need to repeat the cover notes or synopsis which most reviewers seem to think necessary. It's already up there top of the page.
Fabulous work, third book in the Trilogy. The handling of the end of King Artor's reign is handled with extreme sensitivity not only for the characters, the people of the land, but for the Reader.
It felt like a bereavement when it came to a conclusion. I had to ban interruptions for the last 50 pages, as I craved solitude during the concluding chapters.
Author is clearly an authority having studied Arthurian history. Believable characters throughout and most interestingly the Roman names and words are used in the work. And a work it is, it's not a lightweight little story quickly thought up, penned, published and out to the shelves.
It must have taken years to study and hone these storytelling skills.
This would be my introduction to an appreciation of all three books in this trilogy, which I have now finished and on to The Last Dragon, which in the modern terminology is 'prequel'.
Congratulations, M. K. Hume, on your fine talents, work, efforts, and all those who helped in the publication of your works, to be celebrated.
Thankyou for all the entertainment.
There are no 'criminal repurcussions' here, and I would add : 'More please'
Fabulous work, third book in the Trilogy. The handling of the end of King Artor's reign is handled with extreme sensitivity not only for the characters, the people of the land, but for the Reader.
It felt like a bereavement when it came to a conclusion. I had to ban interruptions for the last 50 pages, as I craved solitude during the concluding chapters.
Author is clearly an authority having studied Arthurian history. Believable characters throughout and most interestingly the Roman names and words are used in the work. And a work it is, it's not a lightweight little story quickly thought up, penned, published and out to the shelves.
It must have taken years to study and hone these storytelling skills.
This would be my introduction to an appreciation of all three books in this trilogy, which I have now finished and on to The Last Dragon, which in the modern terminology is 'prequel'.
Congratulations, M. K. Hume, on your fine talents, work, efforts, and all those who helped in the publication of your works, to be celebrated.
Thankyou for all the entertainment.
There are no 'criminal repurcussions' here, and I would add : 'More please'
April 24, 2020
Hasta aquí esta trilogía del Rey Arturo, quizá una de las mejores, no hay magia, sino hombres y mujeres de carne y hueso.
Nos encontramos con un Arturo ya mayor, al igual que los demás protagonistas de la historia, ya al final de sus días y Arturo tiene que hacer frente a la última batalla y dejar las cosas "bien atadas"
La historia se desarrolla en la época artúrica, pero podría ser actual, hay traiciones, amores, engaños, batallas, tanto bélicas como políticas y aparecen personajes de todo tipo, valientes, cobardes, falsos, pero me quedo con la amistad y el compromiso entre los personajes, a pesar de traiciones y demás.
Una pena que se acabe la historia, Arturo es de esos personajes que son inmortales, pero me quedan otros libros de él.
Nos encontramos con un Arturo ya mayor, al igual que los demás protagonistas de la historia, ya al final de sus días y Arturo tiene que hacer frente a la última batalla y dejar las cosas "bien atadas"
La historia se desarrolla en la época artúrica, pero podría ser actual, hay traiciones, amores, engaños, batallas, tanto bélicas como políticas y aparecen personajes de todo tipo, valientes, cobardes, falsos, pero me quedo con la amistad y el compromiso entre los personajes, a pesar de traiciones y demás.
Una pena que se acabe la historia, Arturo es de esos personajes que son inmortales, pero me quedan otros libros de él.
December 21, 2017
Although "The Bloody Cup" by M.K. Hume is the third novel in her Arthurian trilogy, it is the first one I've read by the author. This retelling on the legend reveals a human, deeply flawed King Arthur, Queen Genevieve, and the other well known characters. While the story is based on history, fantasy makes an appearance in the pages. Years ago I read "The Mists Of Avalon," which is my favorite King Arthur book, plus many other tales by various authors. I enjoyed Ms Hume's fresh telling of the story, so different from other versions. I plan to read the first two books in the trilogy and the earlier Merlin novels.
March 6, 2024
Me ha costado muchísimo acabar este libro, lo he hecho por pura cabezonería. Hace mucho tiempo que leí los dos primeros libros, pero no recuerdo que en ellos hubiera tanta bajeza. Absolutamente todos los personajes de este libro carecen de honor y cometen bajezas, todos los personajes a los que la autora dedica más de dos líneas comete alguna traición, cae en alguna obsesión/locura o recae en la villanía o la lujuria, sin importarle a quién pueda traicionar con sus acciones. No espero que los personajes sean perfectos, pero tampoco que corrompas a todos los personajes de la materia de Bretaña sin razón alguna.
July 14, 2020
I've read the entire series starting with Merlin and now King Arthur. The author is a Arthurian scholar and it shows. I really liked the way she weaves the legends with real life. Brilliant. You can really see how the legend grows based on the real-life scenarios as she imagines it. I really enjoyed the historical perspective. For the first time I now fully understand the Anglo-Saxon-Norman transition of Britain.
February 28, 2019
Since Christmas I have read the entire trilogy and I just finished the final book this morning. The third book is a lot quieter than the middle book, and tells the story towards the inevitable conclusion. It's a tragedy at heart and this was a fitting end to a remarkable series. Loved it.
September 17, 2020
A very interesting take on the Authorian legends. There was no magic or sorcery, only flawed human beings that felt real. I was especially fond of the way Guinevere was portrayed. Of course, I hated the ending but all stories can not have a happy ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2021
A fitting end to a trilogy of trilogies, Arthur or Artor in this depiction is a man of morals and deep thoughts, he is human to the core and carries all the burdens he should. In the end becoming a mighty symbol we can all use to remind us of strength, integrity and solidarity.
November 26, 2023
And the story is done… a wonderful version, full of historical details (and of course, some fictions) but cleverly drawn pictures. It’s a fabulous dramatic tale, and whilst I personally loved the first volume the most, I predict you will not be able to stop yourself reading the whole book…
March 16, 2025
This is the 3rd book in the Trilogy and unfortunately a poor conclusion.. I found this a disappointing end to an otherwise compelling series. The story lacked the flow of the earlier books and the story telling seemed weak....the first two books were amazing both 5 star 🌟 reads.
March 20, 2018
Part 3 of the King Arthur trilogy. A marvelous novel to finish off a terrific trilogy.
August 23, 2018
Studying History
March 23, 2019
Bastante decepcionante.
January 18, 2021
Cool and scary
March 31, 2021
A good ending to this trilogy. Hume dis a masterful job in recreating the Arthurian legend
December 20, 2022
the Bloody Cup
The last of the trilogy of King Arthur the legend of King Arthur still lives on , brilliantly written felt like you was transported in time .
The last of the trilogy of King Arthur the legend of King Arthur still lives on , brilliantly written felt like you was transported in time .
May 28, 2023
Sierra con una muerte digna. Los sucesos que acontecen después están bien planteados, aunque no te den muchos detalles, se explican de forma consisa. Me fascinó la trilogía.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2023
Who’s doesn’t love an Arthurian mythology series. This series is a bit darker than most and very atmospheric with hints of fantasy.
November 25, 2016
(This review first appeared on the sadly defunct website The Specusphere in 2010)
The first two volumes of M. K. Hume’s Arthurian trilogy were released last year to critical acclaim. This concluding volume ties up the story into the climax that we all know is coming, but still manages to offer some surprises along the way.
It begins some twenty years after the second volume and we witness Artor (Arthur) in decline. The glory days are far behind him and while he has the respect of many minor kings and lords, there are some who are merely waiting for his grasp on power to slip from his hands. And, of course, there is the ever-present Saxon threat looming overhead. We have the heirless Artor, his venal wife Wenhaver (Hume’s interpretation of Guinevere), the scheming lordling Modred and the astonishing supporting cast of familiar and new characters. The intrigues and battles are exciting and dramatic, the history leaps off the page and the sense that this is what should have happened is palpable.
All the way through this book you get the sense of a kingdom in decline, despite the best efforts of the powerful to save it. There are the younger generations coming up through the ranks to carry on the traditions but they are betrayed and slain, leaving Artor in increasing despair as to the fate of his realm becoming increasingly prey to men with lower aims than his. The joys that Artor feels as he sees his plans begin to show that they may live on beyond him is keenly balanced by the heartbreak as they go awry. This makes it so much more different to so many other Arthurian stories which sometimes come across as a checklist of appropriate themes and characters signposting the author’s point. This is especially provocative in this volumes’ use of the Grail legend.
This is an amazing conclusion. The story – retold, retooled and ripped-off as it has been over the years – is instantly recognisable and it is hard for any author to come up with new things to say about it. Hume not only manages to give us an historically realistic Arthur, but also manages to twist the established legends into new forms, making us think about their meaning anew.
2016 reread thoughts: the author seems to trust the reader a lot more in this volume as there is far less signposting of events and a greater depth to the characters in this volume. However, this is countered by a an awful lot of contrivance and shoehorning in of established legend to fit a story that readers might be expecting, which is a real shame because the differences that this story takes from what we might expect from a story about Arthur are really interesting. I also never really felt that Modred was built up as a worthy foe: his motives and behaviour are too stereotyped and cliched - I could accept a vain Modred, a dissembling and plotting Modred, a child-molesting Modred, or a rebellious Modred, but to put all four on the page feels like overkill.
There are some great moments: Percivale and Bedwyr dealing with Galahad is a highlight of the series, the final battle is tremendous, but they are overshadowed by the poor motivation of the characters, some clumsy plotting and the rushed conclusion.
Definitely worth checking out if you're into Arthuriana, though.
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