The Eternal Flame is a fantasy novel by T. A. Barron, published by Penguin Young Readers Group. The book is the eleventh novel in the 12-book series known as Merlin Saga. It was originally published as The Great Tree of Avalon: The Eternal Flame, the final novel in The Great Tree of Avalon trilogy, and is set in a world made up of a great tree and its seven roots inhabited by creatures.
Plot introduction
Avalon is at the edge of destruction. It seems as if the wicked spirit warlord Rhita Gawr has already gained his victory. The ancient tree has but tiniest hope in the young wizard Tamwyn, the apprentice priestess Elli, the fierce eagleman Scree, the graceful elf maiden Brionna, and the allies of Avalon who hope to prevail over Rhita Gawr's forces. The fate of Avalon lies in three key battles: one involves defeating an immortal serpent (Rhita Gawr himself) and relighting stars; one destroying a powerful crystal, the crystal of vengeláno created by Rhita Gawr; and one on the Plains of Isenwy that will result in the death of many innocent lives. The new wizard, Tamwyn, needs to reach the stars in order to prevail over Rhita Gawr and save Avalon. All of the forces of Avalon must unite to save their world from Rhita Gawr, just as they once did in Fincayra.