The Merlin Prophecy Book One: Battle of Kings

"Exciting,violent, and bloody and full of historical facts" (Lovereading.co.uk review)a historical series for fans of Diana Gabaldon and Bernard Cornwell about a boy conceived from violence but destined for greatness. In the town of Segontium, a wild storm washes a fugitive ashore. He brutally rapes the granddaughter of the Deceangli tribe, leaving her to bear his son, Myrddion Merlinus. She immediately scorns him as a demon seed and leaves him behind to be raised by his grandmother. Upon turning nine, Merlin is apprenticed to a skilled healer who hones his remarkable gift of prophecy and healing. Meanwhile, the High King of the Celts, Vortigern, is rebuilding the ancient fortress at Dinas Emrys. He is advised by scheming prophets to use the blood of a demon seeda human sacrificeto make his towers stand firm. Merlin's life is now in jeopardy, but the gifted boy experiences his own prophecy and understands that he has a richer destiny to fulfill. King Vortigern will soon spread havoc across his kingdom, and Merlin must use his gifts for good in a land besieged by evil. So begins the healer's trying journey to greatness…

M.K. Hume is a retired academic. She received her M.A. and Ph.D. in Arthurian literature. She lives in Australia with her husband and two sons.