The White Hart

The White Hart, Nancy Springer, Pocket Books, 1979

Ellid, daughter of Pryce Dacaerin, the most powerful lord in the land, is being held prisoner by Marc of Myrdon, who wants Dacaerin's title. One night, Ellid is freed by Bevan, a moon goddess reared by the Immortals. He takes her to a place of power called Eburacon to recover from her ordeal. She witnesses his ability to talk to animals and create light with his hands. Ellid also discovers his magical link with a White Hart, a majestic male deer. By the time she recovers enough to return home, they are in love.

But, things are not that easy. This is a time of torment upon the land, for an ancient evil has risen, an evil that can reanimate formerly dead people and send them against former comrades. The only hope seems to be Bevan and his strange abilities.

This novel does, really well, what a fantasy novel is supposed to do. The story might be a little simple, but it's a solid, well-done, you-won't-go-wrong sort of story.