Wise Woman's Telling

"Wise Woman's Telling" masterfully retells the Arthurian legend through the eyes of Morgan le Fay, offering a refreshing and often heartbreaking perspective on a character traditionally portrayed as a villain. Sampson delves into Morgan's early life, painting a vivid picture of her idyllic childhood shattered by Uther Pendragon's lust and the ensuing death of her father. Crucially, the novel focuses on Morgan's upbringing under the tutelage of her wise woman nurse, Gwennol, who recognizes and nurtures the burgeoning magical abilities within young Morgan. This provides a crucial foundation for understanding Morgan's later actions, framing her as a complex figure driven by loss, injustice, and the fear of Arthur's ascendance. "Wise Woman's Telling" is a worthy addition to any list of Fay Sampson's best works because it showcases her exceptional ability to breathe new life into familiar narratives through compelling female voices. The book deftly explores themes of power, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, all while grounding the fantastical elements in a deeply human and emotionally resonant story. Sampson's portrayal of Morgan as a powerful, independent woman grappling with her destiny challenges simplistic good-versus-evil tropes, making "Wise Woman's Telling" a truly unforgettable and thought-provoking read within the Arthurian canon.