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Guinevere #5
The Quest for Excalibur
Book Five of the award-winning historical romance series based on Arthurian legend.
Twelve years ago, 21st-century librarian Gwen decided to remain in the Dark Ages with the man she loves above all else – a man around whom endless well-known tales of legend and magic have been spun. King Arthur. Over the years, she’s carved a life for herself by her husband’s side, gently steering him in the direction she wants him to go, but always with an awareness that he’s a Dark Age king with a Dark Age view of the world.
Equipped with her prior knowledge of Arthurian legend, Gwen’s sole aim has long been to save her husband from the legendary fate she dreads hangs over him. But always, at the back of her mind, is the nagging doubt that whatever she does is already set in stone, and nothing she can do will change his future which is already her past.
Now, in book five of the Guinevere series, she’s all too aware that time is marching on, and that this fate might well be drawing closer to the man she gave up everything for.
Danger lurks in the most unexpected places, and long-hidden secrets threaten to rise to the surface. After a long, cold winter in their hilltop fortress, Gwen’s pleased to welcome traveling players to Din Cadan. But these players are hiding secrets of their own, and one of them has come with black deeds in mind. Gwen will have to fight harder than she’s ever done to save herself and thus her husband. And all evidence points to the hand of Morgana, Arthur’s wicked sister, manipulating everything from afar.
Throughout all of this, simmering in the background, is young Medraut, Arthur’s nephew. Unnoticed, despite still being only a boy, he’s been exerting his malignant influence over those around him, in particular, Gwen and Arthur’s son and heir. The wedge he succeeds in driving between Arthur and his son will carry forward into the cataclysmic events of the final book, The Road To Avalon.
But even Morgana can’t prevent Gwen discovering the truth behind the story of Excalibur and setting the legendary sword in her husband’s hands.
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Guinevere
The Dragon Ring
The Bear's Heart
The Sword
Warrior Queen
The Quest for Excalibur
The Road to Avalon
Twelve years ago, 21st-century librarian Gwen decided to remain in the Dark Ages with the man she loves above all else – a man around whom endless well-known tales of legend and magic have been spun. King Arthur. Over the years, she’s carved a life for herself by her husband’s side, gently steering him in the direction she wants him to go, but always with an awareness that he’s a Dark Age king with a Dark Age view of the world.
Equipped with her prior knowledge of Arthurian legend, Gwen’s sole aim has long been to save her husband from the legendary fate she dreads hangs over him. But always, at the back of her mind, is the nagging doubt that whatever she does is already set in stone, and nothing she can do will change his future which is already her past.
Now, in book five of the Guinevere series, she’s all too aware that time is marching on, and that this fate might well be drawing closer to the man she gave up everything for.
Danger lurks in the most unexpected places, and long-hidden secrets threaten to rise to the surface. After a long, cold winter in their hilltop fortress, Gwen’s pleased to welcome traveling players to Din Cadan. But these players are hiding secrets of their own, and one of them has come with black deeds in mind. Gwen will have to fight harder than she’s ever done to save herself and thus her husband. And all evidence points to the hand of Morgana, Arthur’s wicked sister, manipulating everything from afar.
Throughout all of this, simmering in the background, is young Medraut, Arthur’s nephew. Unnoticed, despite still being only a boy, he’s been exerting his malignant influence over those around him, in particular, Gwen and Arthur’s son and heir. The wedge he succeeds in driving between Arthur and his son will carry forward into the cataclysmic events of the final book, The Road To Avalon.
But even Morgana can’t prevent Gwen discovering the truth behind the story of Excalibur and setting the legendary sword in her husband’s hands.
Read Free in Kindle Unlimited!
Guinevere
The Dragon Ring
The Bear's Heart
The Sword
Warrior Queen
The Quest for Excalibur
The Road to Avalon
399 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 6, 2023
13 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Fil Reid
25 books64 followersAWARD-WINNING author, Fil Reid's first novel won a GOLD medal at the Readers' Favorites Awards in 2022.
Fil lives in Cornwall with her extremely supportive husband and where she's only minutes from the sea. She has a rescue dog from Romania called Bella.
She writes historical fiction and has a six book time travel series, GUINEVERE, out in which the heroine is a 21st-century girl kidnapped back to the Dark Ages to become King Arthur's Queen Guinevere. Lots of fun plot twists mixed in with some of the well-known and also the lesser known legends.
Her poor husband mostly sees the back of her head as she sits at the computer writing.
When she's not writing (which she does pretty much all of the time) she likes to walk the dog, visit sites of historical interest (preferably those connected to her writing), read, and sew.
She has Asperger's Syndrome, but she sees that as a plus as it helps her to be very focused on what she does.
Fil lives in Cornwall with her extremely supportive husband and where she's only minutes from the sea. She has a rescue dog from Romania called Bella.
She writes historical fiction and has a six book time travel series, GUINEVERE, out in which the heroine is a 21st-century girl kidnapped back to the Dark Ages to become King Arthur's Queen Guinevere. Lots of fun plot twists mixed in with some of the well-known and also the lesser known legends.
Her poor husband mostly sees the back of her head as she sits at the computer writing.
When she's not writing (which she does pretty much all of the time) she likes to walk the dog, visit sites of historical interest (preferably those connected to her writing), read, and sew.
She has Asperger's Syndrome, but she sees that as a plus as it helps her to be very focused on what she does.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 20, 2023
There's plenty of drama in this fifth book in the series, including a mysterious, tantalizing scene that is open to interpretation. The book also works as a stand-alone novel as there are many quick summaries of past events. The story is full of rich details and kept me riveted throughout. Now I can't wait for the final wrap-up in Book 6.
September 15, 2023
The Quest for Excalibur by Fil Reid is part of her ongoing series about Gwen, a twentieth century librarian that Merlin had snatched from her life to become King Arthur’s queen. She had been with him for twelve years and although living in this time period was not easy, she had grown to love the life and the people who surrounded her. She could not have been more in love with Arthur and had borne him two children. She remembers just enough of the legend, gained from her father, an Arthurian scholar, to cause her to worry, but not enough to be really helpful. Plus, she didn’t want to be branded a witch, always an ongoing danger in this strange time of superstition. As the title implies, Arthur found Excalibur, although not nearly as glamorously as the legend had reported. Now they were on to the biggest battle of his life. Would this be where it all ended?
Gwen is a fabulous character: strong, brave, and resourceful. She brings some civility to her surroundings and supports Arthur, including becoming known, not only as a the Ring Maiden, but also as a warrior queen. At heart she is a wife and mother and worries for her two children, living in this brutal age: Amhar, her son who is a gentle boy who will never be the warrior or the king Arthur is, and her daughter, Archfedd, who was much more like her father, but could never rule. Legend didn’t mention any children of Arthur, but there was Llacheu, his son from his early life, so much like his father. Then there was Medraut, the child of Arthur’s sister, who was growing to become anything but a good man. Would her be the one to kill Arthur? All of these things, and more, preyed on her heart. This was an exciting book, full of battles and controversy, including Arthur worrying about being a good father. This has been an excellent series, everything a fan of King Arthur could wish in terms of humanizing him. Read the series. You will not regret it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Quest for Excalibur by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #FilReid #TheQuestforExcalibur
Gwen is a fabulous character: strong, brave, and resourceful. She brings some civility to her surroundings and supports Arthur, including becoming known, not only as a the Ring Maiden, but also as a warrior queen. At heart she is a wife and mother and worries for her two children, living in this brutal age: Amhar, her son who is a gentle boy who will never be the warrior or the king Arthur is, and her daughter, Archfedd, who was much more like her father, but could never rule. Legend didn’t mention any children of Arthur, but there was Llacheu, his son from his early life, so much like his father. Then there was Medraut, the child of Arthur’s sister, who was growing to become anything but a good man. Would her be the one to kill Arthur? All of these things, and more, preyed on her heart. This was an exciting book, full of battles and controversy, including Arthur worrying about being a good father. This has been an excellent series, everything a fan of King Arthur could wish in terms of humanizing him. Read the series. You will not regret it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Quest for Excalibur by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #FilReid #TheQuestforExcalibur
October 18, 2023
Book Five of the Guinevere series is a gripping addition to this award-winning historical romance series based on Arthurian legend. The story picks up twelve years after Gwen, a 21st-century librarian, chose to stay in the Dark Ages with King Arthur, the man she loves.
Throughout the years, Gwen has shaped her life by Arthur's side, using her knowledge of Arthurian legend to guide him. However, she is constantly haunted by the fear that she cannot change the inevitable fate that awaits her husband. In this installment, Gwen realizes that time is running out, and the looming threat she has always feared may be inching closer to Arthur.
As danger and secrets intertwine, Gwen must fight against the manipulations of Morgana, Arthur's wicked sister, to protect herself and her husband. The arrival of traveling players to Din Cadan brings even more treachery, as one of them carries dark intentions. Meanwhile, the young Medraut, Arthur's nephew, silently plots and manipulates those around him, causing a rift between Arthur and his son.
Amidst the chaos, Gwen uncovers the truth behind the legendary sword Excalibur and places it in Arthur's hands. With captivating storytelling and a solid grasp of the Arthurian legend, the author takes readers on a thrilling and emotional journey.
The book leaves readers eager for the final installment, The Road to Avalon, as it teases the cataclysmic events that lie ahead. With well-developed characters, intricate plot twists, and a touch of magical realism, Book Five of the Guinevere series is a must-read for fans of historical romance and Arthurian legend.
Throughout the years, Gwen has shaped her life by Arthur's side, using her knowledge of Arthurian legend to guide him. However, she is constantly haunted by the fear that she cannot change the inevitable fate that awaits her husband. In this installment, Gwen realizes that time is running out, and the looming threat she has always feared may be inching closer to Arthur.
As danger and secrets intertwine, Gwen must fight against the manipulations of Morgana, Arthur's wicked sister, to protect herself and her husband. The arrival of traveling players to Din Cadan brings even more treachery, as one of them carries dark intentions. Meanwhile, the young Medraut, Arthur's nephew, silently plots and manipulates those around him, causing a rift between Arthur and his son.
Amidst the chaos, Gwen uncovers the truth behind the legendary sword Excalibur and places it in Arthur's hands. With captivating storytelling and a solid grasp of the Arthurian legend, the author takes readers on a thrilling and emotional journey.
The book leaves readers eager for the final installment, The Road to Avalon, as it teases the cataclysmic events that lie ahead. With well-developed characters, intricate plot twists, and a touch of magical realism, Book Five of the Guinevere series is a must-read for fans of historical romance and Arthurian legend.
September 22, 2023
Quest for Excalibur is the fifth and (I think) the penultimate book in this series. And I have to admit I’ve not read the previous books, but after reading this one, I’m definitely going back to read the rest…
Gwen, is a librarian from the 21st century and had landed in the times of King Arthur. She became Guinevere. (I’m not sure what happened to the actual Guinevere.) And had fallen for the legend/king/man Arthur.
There is lots of action and drama in this book, I did feel I was missing a little backstory (probably given in the previous books) but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. Lots of subplots that had me griping my kindle in places.
Gwen is a smart individual, she remembers enough of the story to not try to change the story too much, but also trying to make sure he doesn’t die an early death!
I liked Arthur, although technically a fictional character, this author brought him to life really well. He worried about being a good king and to being a good father to his two children he had with Gwen.
Morgana and Arthur’s nephew Medraut, are the main protagonists, but watch out for players that are hiding in the shadows, all are plotting to overthrow Arthur from his throne! They are definitely keeping Gwen on her toes!
A few plots were a little predictable, but others caught me off guard completely. It flowed really easy, and I could have read more pages.
It’s more of a teen book, but I loved it.
🦋
Gwen, is a librarian from the 21st century and had landed in the times of King Arthur. She became Guinevere. (I’m not sure what happened to the actual Guinevere.) And had fallen for the legend/king/man Arthur.
There is lots of action and drama in this book, I did feel I was missing a little backstory (probably given in the previous books) but that didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. Lots of subplots that had me griping my kindle in places.
Gwen is a smart individual, she remembers enough of the story to not try to change the story too much, but also trying to make sure he doesn’t die an early death!
I liked Arthur, although technically a fictional character, this author brought him to life really well. He worried about being a good king and to being a good father to his two children he had with Gwen.
Morgana and Arthur’s nephew Medraut, are the main protagonists, but watch out for players that are hiding in the shadows, all are plotting to overthrow Arthur from his throne! They are definitely keeping Gwen on her toes!
A few plots were a little predictable, but others caught me off guard completely. It flowed really easy, and I could have read more pages.
It’s more of a teen book, but I loved it.
🦋
January 11, 2024
Every time I think Fil Reid can't possibly come up with more drama for Gwen and Arthur, she does.
I love Fil Reid's writing style! I love the rich, deep details that yank me from my world to hers. I think I've gagged a few times while reading some of her books. Not many authors think to add the sense of smell to their writing, but Fil Reid does over and over. I also love getting to "see" a part of the world I'll probably never visit through these books. Heck, even if I did get to visit, it'd be modern and boring instead of mysterious and romantic like it was back in the Dark Ages.
I love getting to see peeks of Merlin and his life in Gwen and Arthur's books. I'd love to read more of his story (hint, hint--not sure if authors ever read reviews of their books).
Gwen and Arthur's story is one I will probably read over and over. To me, these aren't one-time reads, but books to pull out once a year and re-read on cold winter nights.
One of my favorite things about this series (not sure on other Fil Reid books) is that she balances the sex and action beautifully. I don't mind a sex scene now and then, but I'm not a fan of books that are "girl porn." I very much prefer reading about romance instead of graphic sex scenes. I feel like Fil Reid has the balance down perfectly.
I greatly enjoyed this book and the whole series and I'm looking forward to seeing what Fil Reid writes next!
I love Fil Reid's writing style! I love the rich, deep details that yank me from my world to hers. I think I've gagged a few times while reading some of her books. Not many authors think to add the sense of smell to their writing, but Fil Reid does over and over. I also love getting to "see" a part of the world I'll probably never visit through these books. Heck, even if I did get to visit, it'd be modern and boring instead of mysterious and romantic like it was back in the Dark Ages.
I love getting to see peeks of Merlin and his life in Gwen and Arthur's books. I'd love to read more of his story (hint, hint--not sure if authors ever read reviews of their books).
Gwen and Arthur's story is one I will probably read over and over. To me, these aren't one-time reads, but books to pull out once a year and re-read on cold winter nights.
One of my favorite things about this series (not sure on other Fil Reid books) is that she balances the sex and action beautifully. I don't mind a sex scene now and then, but I'm not a fan of books that are "girl porn." I very much prefer reading about romance instead of graphic sex scenes. I feel like Fil Reid has the balance down perfectly.
I greatly enjoyed this book and the whole series and I'm looking forward to seeing what Fil Reid writes next!
February 24, 2024
In this fifth volume of the time travel romance 'Guinevere' series, it is now twelve years since Gwen first entered the Dark Ages, and seven years since the events of the third book. She fears the outcome of what might be the last of Arthur’s legendary battles. Danger lurks on many fronts, from a harsh winter, from a group of travelling players with dark deeds in mind, from Arthur’s evil sister Morgana manipulating events from afar, from Arthur’s unreliable brother, and the perennial threat of invasion. Add to this problems with surly adolescents now growing up at Din Cadan, and a quest for the legendary sword Excalibur. Gwen takes an instinctive dislike to Arthur’s unpleasant young nephew, Medraut, and fears what he may do in the future.
I enjoyed this book the most of all the volumes so far. A lot happens in it and there is some enjoyable character drama with the adolescent princes. There is at least one event in this book which I totally did not expect. As before, the locations and the details of dark age life are described in convincing and well-researched detail. A worthy addition to the voluminous Arthurial literature.
I received a free copy of this book.
I enjoyed this book the most of all the volumes so far. A lot happens in it and there is some enjoyable character drama with the adolescent princes. There is at least one event in this book which I totally did not expect. As before, the locations and the details of dark age life are described in convincing and well-researched detail. A worthy addition to the voluminous Arthurial literature.
I received a free copy of this book.
April 28, 2024
Uncaged Review: The battle of Badon is the main focus in this book. The great battle of legend is coming upon them and seeing how history is playing out, the final battle will occur after, the one in which legend says Arthur will die and Gwen is afraid. It’s been 12 years that Gwen was transported into the Dark Ages and for a short moment, she’s thrown from her horse from a sabotaged saddle and goes back to her own time. Scared and afraid, she runs from the hospital and back to the tor where she originally was transported. She makes it back, but Merlin, Arthur and Gwen know that Morgana was behind it all. Merlin casts a spell of protection around Gwen, to be able to keep Morgana from seeing Gwen’s thoughts.
As the battle nears, Arthur has called on his brother Cadwy and Cerdic as allies to fight the Saxons, crucial to their success at Badon. The cost of the war is their son Amhar, who is feeling unloved by his father and is not resolved by the end of the book. We go into the final book in this series, with the nail-biting final battle looming. Will Gwen and Merlin be able to change history? Highly recommended series.
As the battle nears, Arthur has called on his brother Cadwy and Cerdic as allies to fight the Saxons, crucial to their success at Badon. The cost of the war is their son Amhar, who is feeling unloved by his father and is not resolved by the end of the book. We go into the final book in this series, with the nail-biting final battle looming. Will Gwen and Merlin be able to change history? Highly recommended series.
October 27, 2023
4.5⭐️s
An enticing historical romance with a difference! The superb storytelling weaves a rich tapestry steeped in Medieval history, where myths and legends come to life showing events and characters through a new lens. It explores the collision of family, love, and destiny as Gwen tries to use her knowledge to unravel the past and change Arthur’s fate.
The wonderful research that has gone in to the story shines through as we are transported back to the Dark Ages and experience this different way of life. It’s brutal at times, the journey to be a warrior is not easy, yet a softer side is shown through the camaraderie and brotherhood, and Arthur’s end goal of brokering peace for all.
King Arthur is the great leader and warrior we know and love, he rules with strength and passion, and is a powerful opponent. Gwen is a fighter, she’s loyal, fierce and they have a true partnership. I love how Arthur and Gwen are portrayed, the overflowing love they share is beautiful to see. Reid skilfully breathes life into these characters who demand our attention and hold it throughout.
There’s a great balance of intrigue, tension, and building suspense as dark forces manipulate from all sides trying to take the throne! They have to contend with mysterious guests, the threat of war, ulterior motives, and danger radiating all around. This made for a captivating read as I tried to piece everything together getting lost in the thrilling adventure that unravels.
Merlin is a fantastic character and an ally to Arthur and Gwen – he knows their secrets and is part of their trusted inner circle. Medraut’s jealousy and dislike results in fractured relations as Amhar falls under his influence – I can’t wait to see how this all plays out in the next book!
As imminent battle looms and their epic quest for Excalibur intensifies, is Gwen’s knowledge of the past and Merlin’s sight in to the future enough to change history? Don’t hesitate to pick this series up to find out!
With thanks to @literallypr and @filreadauthir for my gorgeous copy and place on the Tour.
An enticing historical romance with a difference! The superb storytelling weaves a rich tapestry steeped in Medieval history, where myths and legends come to life showing events and characters through a new lens. It explores the collision of family, love, and destiny as Gwen tries to use her knowledge to unravel the past and change Arthur’s fate.
The wonderful research that has gone in to the story shines through as we are transported back to the Dark Ages and experience this different way of life. It’s brutal at times, the journey to be a warrior is not easy, yet a softer side is shown through the camaraderie and brotherhood, and Arthur’s end goal of brokering peace for all.
King Arthur is the great leader and warrior we know and love, he rules with strength and passion, and is a powerful opponent. Gwen is a fighter, she’s loyal, fierce and they have a true partnership. I love how Arthur and Gwen are portrayed, the overflowing love they share is beautiful to see. Reid skilfully breathes life into these characters who demand our attention and hold it throughout.
There’s a great balance of intrigue, tension, and building suspense as dark forces manipulate from all sides trying to take the throne! They have to contend with mysterious guests, the threat of war, ulterior motives, and danger radiating all around. This made for a captivating read as I tried to piece everything together getting lost in the thrilling adventure that unravels.
Merlin is a fantastic character and an ally to Arthur and Gwen – he knows their secrets and is part of their trusted inner circle. Medraut’s jealousy and dislike results in fractured relations as Amhar falls under his influence – I can’t wait to see how this all plays out in the next book!
As imminent battle looms and their epic quest for Excalibur intensifies, is Gwen’s knowledge of the past and Merlin’s sight in to the future enough to change history? Don’t hesitate to pick this series up to find out!
With thanks to @literallypr and @filreadauthir for my gorgeous copy and place on the Tour.
October 22, 2023
Another fantastic installment of the Guinevere series!
Another fantastic book by Fil Reid, this episode, entitled “The Quest for Excalibur," brings us the story of how Arthur came upon Excalibur (different from the sword in the stone), and rising tensions as the kids are growing up and pulling away. A worrisome trip to the (modern) hospital may mean the end of all of it, but there’s much to be done! Jealousy, paranoia, and distrust come with knowing the future, but when the future is limited to the stories told by bards and embellished by romantic authors, how can Guinevere rely on what she “knows” versus what’s happening before her? She’s determined to chronicle it all for future generations, and you and I have the privilege of reading her account.
Well-written, descriptive, and thoughtful, this is a fantastic Arthurian series for any lover of adventure, romance, and history.
Another fantastic book by Fil Reid, this episode, entitled “The Quest for Excalibur," brings us the story of how Arthur came upon Excalibur (different from the sword in the stone), and rising tensions as the kids are growing up and pulling away. A worrisome trip to the (modern) hospital may mean the end of all of it, but there’s much to be done! Jealousy, paranoia, and distrust come with knowing the future, but when the future is limited to the stories told by bards and embellished by romantic authors, how can Guinevere rely on what she “knows” versus what’s happening before her? She’s determined to chronicle it all for future generations, and you and I have the privilege of reading her account.
Well-written, descriptive, and thoughtful, this is a fantastic Arthurian series for any lover of adventure, romance, and history.
February 26, 2025
I can't say enough how much I'm loving this series and this, being book #5, has kept me mesmerized. Fil Reid sure knows how to write and reading her words, it truly makes one believe that King Arthur was actually real. Using known historical facts and her imagination, the story of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere comes to life.
So much goes on in this story and my emotions were all over the place. Can you imagine being in the 21st century and finding yourself traveling back to the 5th century....the Dark Ages! Gwen faces many obstacles and knowing that Arthur's death is fast approaching in a final battle, worrying about her son's behaviour and not knowing who to trust keeps her on her toes!!
The author's description of every place they go to adds to the story, makes you feel like you're right there! It's now on to Book #6, the final in the series, and I know I'll be sad to see it all end.
So much goes on in this story and my emotions were all over the place. Can you imagine being in the 21st century and finding yourself traveling back to the 5th century....the Dark Ages! Gwen faces many obstacles and knowing that Arthur's death is fast approaching in a final battle, worrying about her son's behaviour and not knowing who to trust keeps her on her toes!!
The author's description of every place they go to adds to the story, makes you feel like you're right there! It's now on to Book #6, the final in the series, and I know I'll be sad to see it all end.
October 5, 2023
This is Book five of the series. I have not read all of the books, so I did feel a little like I was missing something, but it does provide a good summary of the previous events, so I was still able to follow the story. Gwen is from the 21st century and has gone back in time and has become Guinevere and met and married King Arthur. This latest installment brings us closer to what the legend say is Arthurs' demise. Filled with action, drama, and adventure, the story kept me glued from start to finish and the plot was engaging definitely kept me intrigued. An exciting addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 20, 2025
Intriguing Historical Fantasy
Reading this book will take you to the fifth century. Gwen left the 21st century and has been living with King Arthur for the last twelve years. The stories say that King Arthur will be killed by his nephew, can her foreknowledge change his destiny?
This story will have magic, battle action, treachery, jealousy, and family discord. Arthur's son is becoming resentful. What problems will that create? There is also a quest for excalibur. It seems to be different from the sword Arthur drew from the stone. What is the story of excalibur? I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the last book in this series. This is the fifth book of a series you will want to read in order.
Reading this book will take you to the fifth century. Gwen left the 21st century and has been living with King Arthur for the last twelve years. The stories say that King Arthur will be killed by his nephew, can her foreknowledge change his destiny?
This story will have magic, battle action, treachery, jealousy, and family discord. Arthur's son is becoming resentful. What problems will that create? There is also a quest for excalibur. It seems to be different from the sword Arthur drew from the stone. What is the story of excalibur? I enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the last book in this series. This is the fifth book of a series you will want to read in order.
October 25, 2023
I loved this book so much that I'm going to buy the rest in the series. As usual, I haven't started with book one, but instead, number five! But that didn't matter. It far from ruined the story. The Quest for Excalibur has so many stories running through it, from suspicious travellers to simmering jealousies and heroic feats. Fil sets the scene beautifully and catapults the reader back to that time. Yet, this isn't any ordinary adaptation of the famous legend. With a twist, Guinevere, or Gwen, is originally from the 21st century. So, there is a bit of time-travelling going on which gives the story of King Arthur another dimension of intrigue.
October 30, 2023
Thank you to Literally PR and the author for my copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.The book is filled with many twists and turns and although is the 4th in the series could easily be read as a standalone.A stunning historical romance where you really feel immersed in the story and feel that you are going through the novel with the characters.
I also received a lovely notebook and bookmark with the book which I loved using throughout my reading journey.Filled with excitement and enjoyment this book is not one to be missed.I now really need to get my hands on a copy of the previous 4 books and I cant wait to see what comes next for Reid who is a extremely talented author.
September 28, 2023
Gwen has gone back to the fifth century, met and married King Arthur, and become his indispensable partner in defending Britain against the Saxon invasions. But with the passage of time, they draw closer and closer to what the legends say will be Arthur’s tragic end. Is the next confrontation with the Saxons the triumphant Battle of Badon, or have Gwen’s own actions invalidated the already misty history she knows? And does a foreordained conclusion lie beyond Badon, one that Gwen may be powerless to prevent? The second-to-last volume of this epic series continues to raise the stakes.
October 14, 2023
Morgana is up to her tricks again, but her & Merlin’s daughter, Nimuë, appears in Guinevere’s dreams to help her find the actual sword of Excalibur.
King Arthur faces the biggest battle of his life so far; The Battle of Badon. Can they defeat the Saxons?
Guinevere is extremely worried about Amhar, her and Arthur’s son, although their younger daughter, Archfedd is doing well. I can’t help but wonder how the story is going to play out with Amhar. Will he join his father in battle? I’m looking forward to finding out.
With plenty of magic and fighting, this story kept me entertained from start to finish. We may never know whether King Arthur is fact or fiction, but I do love how the author weaves the story. Great writing that made me feel as though I was back in the fifth century with them all.
This is one series I am going to miss when it finishes with the next book.
My thanks to the author and Literally PR for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
King Arthur faces the biggest battle of his life so far; The Battle of Badon. Can they defeat the Saxons?
Guinevere is extremely worried about Amhar, her and Arthur’s son, although their younger daughter, Archfedd is doing well. I can’t help but wonder how the story is going to play out with Amhar. Will he join his father in battle? I’m looking forward to finding out.
With plenty of magic and fighting, this story kept me entertained from start to finish. We may never know whether King Arthur is fact or fiction, but I do love how the author weaves the story. Great writing that made me feel as though I was back in the fifth century with them all.
This is one series I am going to miss when it finishes with the next book.
My thanks to the author and Literally PR for my copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2023
An unexpected wonderful series
I have read many books and haven’t felt inclined to write a review. I felt like I needed to for this series. I love this series. The author seems to have done an enormous amount of research. The story flows a great pace. The character development was superb. I was never bored. I am so glad I stumbled upon this author and the series. I opened the book description as my youngest is named Guinevere and I was looking for a fantasy series. I am looking forward to the last book!
I have read many books and haven’t felt inclined to write a review. I felt like I needed to for this series. I love this series. The author seems to have done an enormous amount of research. The story flows a great pace. The character development was superb. I was never bored. I am so glad I stumbled upon this author and the series. I opened the book description as my youngest is named Guinevere and I was looking for a fantasy series. I am looking forward to the last book!
December 20, 2024
The closer we get to the end of the series, the more tension rises. Gwen doesn’t know what stories she heard about King Arthur in her own time are true or not. We can feel her dilemma growing with each passing day. And to complicate matters further, Arthur and their son, Amhar, have a difficult relationship, made it harder by some terrible influence and manipulation.
In the end, the timeless question remains: can love really conquer everything?
Fil Reid does a masterful job of weaving known legends with unknown ones creating her story universe in a very realistic and unique way.
In the end, the timeless question remains: can love really conquer everything?
Fil Reid does a masterful job of weaving known legends with unknown ones creating her story universe in a very realistic and unique way.
January 4, 2026
Book 5 The Quest for Excalibur is a captivating tale! I only have one more book in the series to read, but so far this one is my favorite. The author has done a wonderful job connecting locations from Arthurian legend with where they are associated with in the modern era throughout the series. My only quibble with the series is that there’s no pronunciation guide for the Welsh names of the characters or place names.
September 18, 2023
Another great instalment! I love the historical details, like how harsh winter was in the Middle Ages, and the references to the legends, like Medraut's increasingly nasty attitude. I also love Arthur and Gwen finding Excalibur, and Gwen's brief return to the 21st century, and the hints that Arthur's future enemy might be his son instead of Medraut.
September 30, 2023
This author has such a wonderful gift for storytelling. Each book in this series is as good if not better than the last. The Quest for Excalibur is filled with adventure, battle, and romance. I absolutely love the way King Arthur and Queen Guinevere are depicted with such wonderful characters.
September 16, 2023
great book!
Love this series and can’t wait for next book. So is Arthur s son going to be the one he meets on the battlefield? That will be interesting to see
Love this series and can’t wait for next book. So is Arthur s son going to be the one he meets on the battlefield? That will be interesting to see
October 15, 2023
more f Arthur and Gwen
Another great story but you left me hanging. When will the next book be out. Please finish the next book so I can continue the story.
Another great story but you left me hanging. When will the next book be out. Please finish the next book so I can continue the story.
November 12, 2024
Magic; Time Travel; Fictional Historical Events: This was an enjoyable series and a new spin on the relationship between King Arthur and Guinevere.
October 13, 2023
Gwen has been in the fifth century for 12 years now, after being whisked away from the 21st century via Merlin's magic and the Glastonbury Tor to fulfil her destiny as King Arthur's famous wife. Like the previous four novels, it's packed with vivid details about life in the fifth century, and I felt like I was right there along with Gwen as she navigates the both lovely and horrific times. All the characters are multi-dimensional, and the books are meticulously researched so the historical aspect is fascinating. There is wonderful tension and drama as the high stakes are made even higher due to what Gwen knows/thinks she knows/hopes she knows about this historical time and her worries about how her decisions and actions may affect the future and the fate of Arthur himself. I am looking forward to the sixth book, and am sorry it will be the last one!
November 14, 2023
This is a great series that is well written and very descriptive. It blows my mind the amount of research that must have gone into this book.
Thave loved getting to know the characters and the time period, and have since read some further history books on the Dark Ages, I find it all so fascinating.
I am eagerly awaiting book 6 in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley, Dragonblade publishing and the author for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
Thave loved getting to know the characters and the time period, and have since read some further history books on the Dark Ages, I find it all so fascinating.
I am eagerly awaiting book 6 in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley, Dragonblade publishing and the author for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.
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