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eBook Category: Historical Fiction Dream Realm Award Finalist, EPIC eBook Award Finalist
eBook Description: Despite the collar marking her as a slave of Dunn na Carraice, young Lin is fiercely determined to retain her pride and keep her family intact. That dignity bears a price, for Lin has drawn the wrath of Modred, the youngest prince of Orkney. His single-minded quest to break strong-willed Lin--by any means necessary--nearly succeeds. Although Lin is accustomed to the death, disease, rape and famine that runs rampant in the slave hovel she calls home, it is when her beloved brother Dafydd is placed on the auction block that her warrior spirit becomes apparent to all who challenge her, and the shocking secret of her lineage is finally revealed.

eBook Publisher: Amber Quill Press, Published: 2003
Fictionwise Release Date: July 2005

This eBook is part of the following series:

• Debra Kemp's House of Pendragon Series

21 Reader Ratings:

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"The tale of King Arthur has been told by so many authors, and in so many ways, that it might seem difficult to do anything new with it. Yet Debra Kemp has succeeded. She confronts a question that isn't often considered. Why is so little said about Arthur's children? In The House of Pendragon we meet one that we haven't met before-his daughter, Lin. We follow her strange career from slavery to possible succession as Arthur's heir. This well-told and very original story adds a fascinating newcomer to the legend's immortal company."--Geoffrey Ashe, Historical Fiction Reviewer

"Ms. Kemp deals with the subject of Arthurian Britain in a style normally adopted for modern issues, it is refreshing to read what I can only describe as a 'Warts and all' account of life in the period we call The Dark Ages. This book does not give us the heavily romanced tales that many do, thank heavens, instead it gives us a gritty and definitely adult view of the struggles in Britain at the time of Arthur, 'The Bear.' Only too often we are served with over-sentimental offerings that scarcely hide plagiarism from Thomas Mallory or 'New Age' books that borrow heavily from the superb work of Marion Bradley. Here at last we have a fresh approach, a glimpse of struggles and realism so often denied us and yet, still written with a modern audience in mind. Highly readable, highly enjoyable and highly recommended."--Prof. Dr. Roland Rotherham

"Debra Kemp has created a lively, compelling expansion to the tales of King Arthur and Camelot in her debut novel, The House of Pendragon I: The Firebrand. Here she introduces the spirited and stubborn Lin, an unknown daughter of Arthur's. Ignorant of her birthright, Lin becomes an unwitting link in the vengeful plotting of her father's enemies, Queen Morgause and her son Modred. Though only wishing to maintain simple dignity amidst hatred, injustice and cruelty, Lin proves that her remarkable heritage is truly a part of her. With finely crafted characters and originality, Kemp skillfully blends history, legend and fiction in a story that illuminates one of the darkest corners of the Arthurian legend."--Kathleen Cunningham Guler, author of In the Shadow of Dragons

"Debra Kemp has wonderfully presented the courage and strength of Lin, the daughter of the Pendragon. The reader will never feel that this is a book of fiction, as Debra Kemp vividly detailed every scene to perfection. Her research and love of the Arthurian legends made The Firebrand a book I would not want to live without."--Josie de Dios, Round Table Reviews

"A wonderful book for fans of Arthurian lore...is a must read for lovers of the most fabled and mythical kingdom of all."--Romance Reviews Today

"This is for Arthurian legend fans and for readers who like strong female protagonists."--Yet Another Book Review Site

"...Not a tired rehash of the same stories, but a fresh, original new dimension in a beloved saga. Harsh reality and deep love contrast sharply and create well-defined characters. The author's love and depth of research is apparent in every page. Readers will join me in eagerly awaiting the next book."--Huntress Reviews

"...Not the typical tale of Knights of the Round Table and pulling swords from stones. The Arthurian mythos here is a backdrop and well utilized...comes highly recommended."--The Eternal Night

"Debra A. Kemp weaves a wonderful story about the long lost daughter of King Arthur. The story was rich in detail and had you on the edge of your seat cheering for the young girl of 12 that took on a prince...An absolutely amazing read."--The Review Spot

"[Kemp] grabs the reader's attention immediately and then holds on to it with strong characters and a well-designed plot...the book is filled with memorable and believable characters."--Fallen Angels Reviews

"Oh, he is good," I whispered. I wanted to watch the prince's life drain from him, just as he was draining the spirit from me. My vow to stop rebelling forgotten, I envisioned Prince Modred's blood pooling at my feet.

"What was that, Lin?"

"The bastard is good. A worthy adversary. He knew precisely where to strike. Where it would hurt most. That is why I did not see him today. Oh, for a bard's curse."

"Lin, leave it. You cannot win against him."

"Ah, but I will. Just you watch me, Dafydd. So help me, I shall win." I heaved my bowl across the room towards the palace. Its contents flew in every direction, and people in its path ducked their heads to avoid being hit by the missile. "This is between you and me, prince. Attack me all you want, but leave my brother out of it."