Mary Stewart THE HOLLOW HILLS 1973 William Morrow & Co., NY First Edition HC/DJ

This novel picks up exactly where the first volume leaves off. The king has spent the night with the wife of his leading general and eventually the boy, Arthur, will be born and given to Merlin to care for and protect. Merlin succeeds in this effort and finally Arthur is 14 and goes to see the king who is ailing. A battle occurs and Arthur acts bravely. The king announces him as his successor but rivals also claim the throne.I found this volume and series to be both interesting and adventuresome. It is best to read the series starting with volume one. Highly recommended.