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Arthurian legend meets Hindu mythology in this unique magical universe. Professor Limren, an Oxford University historian, is otherwise known by his archetypal name, Merlin. Limren’s historic estate on the outskirts of Oxford, protected by magic, holds many treasures and secrets, including original artwork from world masters and an inner sanctum where his modern clothing transforms into Merlin’s classic robes. The magician’s butler, Raman, is an astrologer and inventor who has served him for over ten centuries since their initial meeting in India after a terrible massacre. Originally teacher and student, the pair are now a good team. The traits that one lacks, the other has, and so they bring out the best in one another. When Merlin segues into his classic world of knights and kings, readers will enjoy the familiar characters such as the Lady of the Lake, Lancelot, Percival, Galahad, and others.
The fanciful illustrations lend a storybook ambiance to the novel. The prose reads at a young adult level but with enough flourishes and spark to fire adult readers’ imaginations too. The quick pacing sometimes bogs down with some uneven writing, yet the narrative always snaps back from this throat-clearing into a fuller-bodied reading experience. Jain has created a remarkable, inventive tale combining elements of two very different cultures with ancient traditions connected to earth energies. The author’s love of British and Indian history and mythology shines through the storyline, as does his real-world knowledge of gemstones that are aligned with Merlin’s magic as he seeks to protect Arthur from the devious Morgana and the many legendary beings who obstruct the prophecy of the once and future king arising again in the New World. Devotees of the Arthurian legend will appreciate this modern spinoff of a classic tale.