Excalibur: A Novel of Arthur

Derfel Cadarn is an old monk writing down his memories of the years he spent as a warrior under Arthur. This is the closing volume of the Warlord Chronicles, and it follows The Winter King and Enemy of God, so it is best read after them.

Arthur is bitter over Guinevere's infidelity. He takes command of the defence of Dumnonia while the Saxons muster to conquer Britain.

Arthur and Derfel break up a pagan rite that Merlin is performing at Mai Dun. The Druid priestess Nimue never forgives either man, and her grudge shadows what follows.

At Mynydd Baddon, Arthur's coalition wins its great victory over the Saxons. The peace brings no rest. Intrigue eats away at Mordred's reign, and Nimue's curse falls on Derfel's family as she demands Excalibur.

The story is a retelling of the Arthurian legend, told as a memoir. It sets the legend in a muddy, harsh sixth-century Britain where Christian and pagan beliefs clash and war never lets up. It ends at the battle of Camlann, and with what becomes of Arthur's sword.