The Hollow Hills (Arthurian Saga, #2) Summary & Key Insights

Mary Stewart's The Hollow Hills, the second book in her Arthurian Saga, continues the captivating adventures of Arianne, a young woman caught in the swirling tides of Camelot's court and the mystical world of Arthurian legend. Picking up after The Crystal Cave, Arianne, now a young woman disguised as a boy named "Arian," finds herself entangled in a dangerous quest to locate the lost kingdom of Gwyddno Garanhir, a hidden land said to hold powerful magic.

This quest is fueled by the mysterious disappearance of her foster brother, the enigmatic and deeply troubled Merlin. His absence casts a long shadow over the narrative, driving Arianne's relentless search and fueling the overarching theme of loyalty and the complexities of familial bonds. The journey itself is fraught with peril, leading her through treacherous landscapes and forcing her to confront both physical and supernatural dangers. She faces druids, both benevolent and malevolent, navigates treacherous political landscapes within Camelot, and confronts her own burgeoning romantic feelings for various characters.

Key characters, aside from Arianne/Arian and Merlin, include King Arthur, a figure more fully realized in this installment, depicted as a conflicted leader grappling with the burdens of his crown and the pressures of his advisors. Another significant figure is Gwenhwyfar, Queen of Camelot, portrayed not as a mere pawn but as a woman of intelligence and resilience. The enigmatic presence of Taliesin, a powerful bard and seer, also plays a vital role, providing cryptic guidance and highlighting the mystical elements woven into the storyline.

The Hollow Hills itself serves as more than just a geographical location; it becomes a symbol of the hidden, the forgotten, and the power of ancient magic. The quest for Gwyddno Garanhir is not merely a geographical expedition but a journey of self-discovery for Arianne. She confronts her identity, both as a woman concealed under a male guise and as an individual grappling with her heritage and destiny. Themes of identity, destiny, and the conflict between the natural and supernatural world intertwine throughout the narrative.

The book explores the seductive allure of magic and the potential for its misuse, emphasizing the constant tension between its benevolent and destructive capacities. Arianne's journey pushes her to the brink, testing her resilience and forcing her to confront the darker aspects of her own nature. Ultimately, The Hollow Hills leaves Arianne at a pivotal point in her life, having uncovered both truths about the past and significant clues regarding Merlin's whereabouts, setting the stage for further adventures in the series. The narrative culminates with a suspenseful cliffhanger, leaving the reader eager to uncover the secrets yet to be revealed.