The Magic of Ink: Guinevere’s Gift

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Guinevere’s Gift

by Nancy McKenzie

Many years before she even glimpsed Arthur, Guinevere was an orphan living with her aunt, uncle, and cousin Elaine. Even now jealous of her beautiful elder sister, Guinevere’s aunt Alyse keeps Gwen on a tight rein while giving her own daughter her way. And although she’s a year younger than her cousin, Elaine is determined to find a suitor and get married. Then Sir Darric comes to visit, and seems to bring other troubles with him, like Elaine’s infatuation with him, and the disappearance of King Leodegrance’s livestock. Guinevere seems to be the only person who notices these things—but will she be able to save her cousin’s life and protect an ancient people?

This is the type of story I would have loved when I was several years younger, with a headstrong heroine who saves the day! Now it is still enjoyable, and I look forward to reading the next books in the Chrysalis Queen Quartet, but the writing was just a bit juvenile for my tastes. Perhaps because I had previously read Queen of Camelot and was expecting something a bit more like that. Still, Guinevere’s Gift is a nice introduction to Arthurian novels for younger readers, and a great tale for girls who like adventure.

Read and reviewed for my Royalty Rules Reading Challenge.

2 comments:

AnonymousApril 21, 2008 at 8:44 AM
Thanks for the review. Like you I have read The Queen of Camelot, but it was a long while ago now. I am interested in reading this series which I hadn't heard of before so thanks!
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EmApril 22, 2008 at 12:02 AM
Sounds like an interesting book. I haven't read many arthurian novels but I love strong female characters so I think I'll give this one a try. Thanks for the recommendation! :)
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Saturday, April 19, 2008

Guinevere’s Gift

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