Finding Camlann by Sean Pidgeon. W.W. Norton 2013. 352 pgs (hardcover). Fiction. Pidgeon_FindingCamlann

Book Summary: Despite the years of scholarship that seems to provide evidence to the existence of King Arthur, archaeologist Donald Gladstone knows there is no solid evidence out there to prove the reality of a historical Arthur. With the help of an ancient poem and an old friend, Donald goes on the journey of a lifetime that ultimately transforms his understanding of the origins of Arthur.

I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads Giveaway, and other than the chance to read an advanced copy, I received no compensation for reviewing it. This book is told in a very strange way—third person present tense. I’m not sure if it was that which bogged down this story, or the long rambling paragraphs and chapters which seemed to make no sense in furthering the plot. Sean Pidgeon had his research in order, but the execution left something to be desired.

I have always found the story of King Arthur and Camelot fascinating, whether its told by Keira Knightley and Clive Owen, by Monty Python, or by anyone else. However, Pidgeon’s novel depicting two people’s quest in finding the truth behind Arthur kind of ruined the fun for me.

Pidgeon claims that Finding Camlann is “sixteen years worth of research, writing, and rewriting,” and it shows. The writing is dull and very strained, as if it had taken a completely different turn from its original path. I believe this book might’ve been more exciting if told from a different perspective, maybe even just third person past tense, or first person present. Changing the tense of a story can create an entirely new reading experience, and one I think I would have enjoyed in this case.

The only redeeming part of this book was probably the last 100 pages or so. The long expedition Donald and his old flame, Julia, embark upon finally comes to an end and so does the quest for the truth behind Arthur.

You might enjoy this book if you enjoy any other books about King Arthur, but don’t expect an action-adventure. It’s more of a tragic love story that ends in the discovery of some semblance of truth, with some action and death along the way.