Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle

by Mark Piggott

Camelot Cove is a quiet village on the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Most people know it as a fishing town, but this sleepy little community has a secret. Camelot Cove is the home of the Fae—magical beings from myth and legend. From mermaids to dryads, centaurs to ogres, and elves to dwarves, the community is a mixture of humans and Fae. They were brought together in this out-of-the-way place by the wizard Merlin and the mysterious Lady of the Lake under the protection of the Pendragon. The power of the Pendragon has passed from generation to generation through the descendants of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere. That power now waits to be passed to the next descendant to continue the legacy as the protector of the Fae.

Gwen Iver is a fifteen-year-old girl starting her first day of high school. Surrounded by friends and facing off against her rivals, including Morgan Moor and her infamous Dreadmoor Gang, Gwen's idyllic life is about to be turned upside-down. She begins a journey into a magical world of infinite possibilities when she attempts to unlock Pendragon's Puzzle.

147 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 20, 2024

About the author

Mark Piggott, a native of Phillipsburg, N.J., enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1982, beginning a 23-year career. He served on four aircraft carriers and various duty stations as a Navy Journalist before he attained the rank of Chief Petty Officer. He retired from active duty in 2006. His first novel, Forever Avalon, was published in 2009. He currently works as a writer-editor for the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Mark and his wife, Georgiene, live in Alexandria, Virginia. They have three children.

Reviews

[Susan Fuhrman · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle is a really enjoyable YA fantasy and a wonderfully accessible introduction to mythical fantasy and Arthurian legend.

Gwen felt exactly her age. At fifteen and just starting high school, she’s learning to navigate a new stage of her life while also trying to understand everything Uncle “Merle” is teaching her. Her reactions and development felt believable throughout.

One of my favorite touches was the clever play on names and their links back to Arthurian legend; Gwen Iver/Guinevere and Merle/Merlin are just a couple of examples. It added a fun extra layer to the story, especially if you’re already familiar with the legends.

The world-building was nicely written and very easy to understand. Mythology, magic, and the Fae are woven into the story, but it never gets overly complicated or hard to follow. The supporting characters also felt believable, with Uncle Merle being a particular favorite of mine.

For a relatively short book, the pacing was just right. Nothing felt drawn out, but nothing felt rushed either. The Pendragon Puzzle kept me present and engaged, and I genuinely didn’t find myself guessing the answers before Gwen!

This is a great YA read for someone wanting a lighter, accessible entry into fantasy and Arthurian legend, while still offering plenty of magic and mystery.

A very enjoyable 4.5-star read!!! And I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!

[Priscilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the start! Gwen is just trying to survive her first day of high school when she finds out she might be heir to the Pendragon legacy. I loved watching her deal with ordinary teenage problems while uncovering a world of magic hidden in Camelot Cove.

Mermaids, centaurs, elves, and ogres made the town feel so alive, and the King Arthur lore gave the story an extra layer of mystery. Pendragon’s Puzzle kept me guessing, while the humor and heart made me care about Gwen’s journey. Such a fun, imaginative start to the series! I’m excited to see where it goes!

Thank you to the author and the space network for the opportunity to read and review this book!

[ranee_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gwen is a normal teenager starting high school and then she’s the holder of old magic, magic she isn’t sure that she wants. With it comes way more trouble than shes ready for.

Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle is fun YA Fantasy about Arthurian legend with magic, magical creatures, and friendship. The story was fun and very interesting. I always enjoy Arthurian Fantasy. Perfect for teens wanting to explore the world of Arthurian legend and magical beings!

[Beth H. · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

I really liked this book. It is a good intro to fantasy.
I know the characters are in high school but it feels very middle school. So I would suggest marketing it to that crowd more than the YA which I see as high schoolers.
My middle school child is actually looking forward to reading it, while my HS child thought it seemed to childish.

[Jimie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun book about magic and power! I loved the parallels to Camelot, Merlin, and the past. Gwen was an amazing FMC, and the character growth throughout the story was so strong and consistent. I can’t wait to read more!

[CarriAnn S · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

This tale is so well written, with a unique spin on King Author's & Queen Gueniviere' family Legacy. I love that the story brings together mythical creatures & humans working together to preserve their way of life and the magic of old. The main charachter Gwen is mature and full of heart. She is brave and willing to look at a persons heart and charachter, not just what is seen on the outside. Could that be the key to the pendragon puzzle? Youll have to read to find out. I absolutely loved this YA book! I have not read anything by Mark Piggott, but I will definately be checking out book 2 & his other work & recommending this to my daughter to read as well!

[Lacy · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

✨ Review Copy ✨

"Hugh, is there magic here and in Japan?"

"Of course...the pyramids of Egypt, the Black Forest in Germany, Stonehenge and Glastonbury Tor in Great Britain, the Azores, Intikancha in Peru, Easter Islannd, and more."

This is a really fun YA retelling. Way back in the day, I read Le Morte d'Arthur, so I'm familiar with the characters. So, this was such a fun interpretation to read, being very digestible for teens.

Actually, I felt like this was written for an even younger crown. Apart from a since 'heck' (not heck, of course), the language was clean. The feeling was very Percy Jackson for me. So, apart from that single word usage, I think this book stretches into the middle school realm.

I enjoyed both the crew and how the story unfolded - literally how everyone was brought into the storyline itself. The theme and moral of the family-esque crew was definitely in line with what you'd expect for this age group.

The included chapter art was a highlight! seeing the thank you at the beginning and how it was collected, it made it so special to see the differences from the various artists.

the character of Morgan Moor was really interesting. She lived a completely different life than the others, but was also living in their same time period. I was trying to mold that into my mind because there wasn't a big explanation of the lore to a point where I could understand how she could be two things at once. But, I just went with suspension of disbelief and moved on.

Triggers: Violence (Mild)

You may like this book if you enjoy...

🧩 Younger YA Fantasy
🧩 British Mythology
🧩 A Cozy Fantasy

[Hector · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle is a charming and imaginative adventure that breathes fresh life into Arthurian lore while grounding it in the quiet, magical village of Camelot Cove. Mark paints the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with both warmth and mystery, blending everyday life with the wonder of the Fae, mermaids, dryads, centaurs, dwarves, and more. The worldbuilding feels rich yet approachable, giving readers a sense that magic truly lives just beneath the surface of this sleepy lakeside town. Gwen Iver, with her mix of teenage awkwardness, curiosity, and bravery, makes for an instantly relatable heroine as she steps into a destiny tied to the ancient power of the Pendragon.

As Gwen confronts rivals like Morgan Moor and the notorious Dreadmoor Gang while unraveling secrets that could change her world forever, the story delivers heart, humor, and adventure in equal measure. Mark’s storytelling invites both young readers and adults to rediscover the excitement of discovering magic for the first time. If you enjoy contemporary fantasy with mythic roots, engaging characters, and the thrill of hidden worlds waiting to be unlocked, Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle is an easy and enthusiastic recommendation.

[Jennie Rosenblum · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed many books by this author, so when I saw that he was branching into the Young Adult genre, I couldn’t wait to dive into his latest offering. His unique storytelling style has always captivated me, and I was eager to see how he would bring this talent to a younger audience.

Gwen, the protagonist, is just an average girl starting her first year of high school. She lives with her Uncle Merle in the charming village of Camelot Cove. Uncle Merle hands her a mysterious puzzle box each morning and starts a timer. Gwen has been diligently working on solving this puzzle for years. However, with the help of two new friends, she finally unlocks its secrets, only to realize that some things might be better left unopened.

The author cleverly incorporated a big twist on the traditional Camelot legend, making this book a delightful and engaging read for anyone aged 13 to 99. The blend of mystery, adventure, and a touch of magic keeps the pages turning and the reader thoroughly entertained. Whether you’re a young reader or simply young at heart, this book offers a refreshing take on a classic tale you won’t want to miss.

[Racheal James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark’s Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle offers a colorful premise, blending Arthurian lineage with small-town fantasy. The world-building in Camelot Cove is imaginative, though at times the number of magical species feels overwhelming. Gwen herself is a strong protagonist, and her conflicts at school are believable and engaging, even if some supporting characters fall into familiar archetypes. The pacing picks up significantly once Pendragon’s Puzzle enters the storyline, making the second half particularly compelling. While the book occasionally leans on genre tropes, it compensates with heartfelt moments and a clear emotional core. Overall, this is a solid read that young fantasy fans will enjoy. Recommended especially for readers who appreciate a lighter, accessible entry into myth-inspired fantasy.

[T.K. Toppin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Mark Piggott’s unique knack for drawing out a story from the past or a literary classic, and putting his signature spin on it. This story is a sort of “retelling” - in a broad sense - of the Arthurian Pendragon tale, with a modern vibe geared for the young adult readers. Riddled with mythical and fae creatures as they go about modern day life, as they have done for centuries, and told from the viewpoint of the newly-aware youngsters. We follow Gwen Iver, who at fifteen, has suddenly acquired knowledge of her past and family’s history. Whatever shall she do with it? There be dragons too! A fast, easy read aimed at young adults, but thoroughly enjoyable for all. I’m eagerly awaiting book two in the series!

[Eric John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piggott delivers a compelling and imaginative fantasy in Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Camelot Cove, a unique blend of human and fae culture the novel weaves Arthurian mythology into a modern, engaging storyline. Gwen Iver is a relatable and well-developed protagonist whose transition from typical high-school challenges to unraveling an ancient magical legacy is both believable and captivating. The supporting cast, including rivals like Morgan Moor and the Dreadmoor Gang, enriches the narrative with tension and depth. This book stands out for its balanced pacing, worldbuilding clarity, and creative lore. A strong recommendation for fans of YA fantasy and myth-inspired fiction.

[Jonathan Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle, Mark constructs a hybrid narrative merging Arthurian mythology with contemporary adolescent experience. Camelot Cove functions as a liminal space where mythical beings coexist with human society, reinforcing themes of cultural integration and inherited identity. Gwen’s character arc is structured around the classic hero’s journey but contextualized within modern high-school dynamics, creating an intriguing juxtaposition of mythic expectation and teenage anxiety. The Pendragon legacy serves as a symbolic exploration of lineage, agency, and self-determination. While the text remains accessible to younger readers, it subtly engages with broader questions about destiny and community obligation.

[Vic Huey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picture a curtain rising over mist rolling off Lake Superior. Hear the clash of unseen swords in the air above Camelot Cove. This is the stage upon which Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle unfurls its tale. Mark crafts each scene with a spotlight’s precision, Gwen confronting Morgan Moor beneath fluorescent school lights, the Fae haunting the edges of human life with mysterious grace, the Pendragon’s legacy looming like a prophecy whispered from backstage. Every chapter plays like a grand performance, dramatic and charged with destiny. Gwen steps into her role with trembling courage, learning her lines not from scripts, but from her heart. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy fantasy told with flair, spectacle, and a touch of theatrical magic.

[Mark Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pendragon in Camelot Cove is a wonderfully imaginative start to a new YA fantasy world. I loved the blend of small-town life with ancient magic and legendary creatures. Gwen Iver is instantly relatable an ordinary girl suddenly discovered to be the potential heir to an extraordinary legacy. The setting in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula adds a refreshing atmosphere, and the magical community hidden within Camelot Cove feels vibrant and alive. Merlin, the Lady of the Lake, and the Pendragon lineage add a rich mythological foundation without overshadowing the new story. The mystery of Pendragon’s Puzzle kept me guessing throughout. If you enjoy modern fantasy with strong Arthurian roots, I highly recommend this book.

[Erik Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoy stories where normal life collides with ancient magic, Pendragon in Camelot Cove is exactly the type of book you’ll love. Gwen Iver’s first day of high school spirals quickly into something far more extraordinary, and her connection to the legendary Pendragon line creates a fascinating hook. The setting a quiet Michigan village hiding a community of Fae is incredibly unique and well developed. Merlin’s involvement adds nostalgic Arthurian charm, while the rivalry with Morgan Moor keeps things fun and energetic. I found the book easy to read, imaginative, and filled with personality. It’s perfect for younger readers and anyone who loves a light, magical adventure. Highly recommended!

[Thomas Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle surprised me with how immersive and richly detailed the world is. Camelot Cove is one of the most charming fantasy towns I’ve encountered, quiet on the surface but hiding a magical blend of humans, Fae, and ancient Arthurian secrets. Gwen is an instantly likable protagonist, balancing typical high school nerves with the sudden weight of destiny. Her encounters with Morgan Moor and the Dreadmoor Gang add real tension, while her friendships feel warm and genuine. The mystery of Pendragon’s Puzzle is exciting, clever, and pushes Gwen to grow in believable ways. This book combines magic, heart, humor, and mystery beautifully. A fantastic start to what I hope becomes a long-running series.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book hooked me from the first chapter. Gwen’s first day of high school feels relatable, but the magical twist of living in a community shared with mermaids, centaurs, elves, and ogres creates a setting unlike anything I’ve read. The author blends normal teenage challenges with the weight of inheriting the Pendragon legacy in such an engaging way that even hesitant readers will be pulled in. I appreciated how the story balances humor with emotion, especially as Gwen begins uncovering the mystery behind Pendragon’s Puzzle. The lore tied to King Arthur and the Lady of the Lake adds depth without ever slowing the pacing. It’s fun, adventurous, and brimming with imagination. Truly delightful.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere. Camelot Cove feels enchanting from the first page, with its blend of human and Fae residents, the shimmering magic of the lake, and the quiet power lingering from the Pendragon line. Gwen is a relatable fifteen-year-old who finds herself facing responsibilities she never imagined. Her growth throughout the story feels natural and heartfelt. The magical puzzle at the heart of the plot adds an intriguing layer of mystery, encouraging readers to solve it alongside her. Humor and tension are well-balanced, and the worldbuilding is detailed without ever slowing down the story. It’s rare to find a YA fantasy that feels so fresh and warm at the same time.

[Charlie D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle by Mark is one of those books that quietly pulls you in and then surprises you with how rich its world becomes. Camelot Cove feels cozy and familiar at first, a small fishing town with high school drama, but the hidden presence of the Fae gives everything a magical undercurrent. Gwen is a relatable fifteen-year-old, dealing with friends, rivals, and growing pains, which makes her sudden connection to Arthurian legacy feel grounded rather than overwhelming. I loved how classic mythology blends naturally with modern life, especially the idea of magic being inherited and protected across generations. The Pendragon’s Puzzle adds mystery and momentum to the story. This is a thoughtful, imaginative read.

[RB Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle by Mark felt like stepping into a secret world hiding just beneath everyday life. Camelot Cove is beautifully imagined, balancing small-town realism with mythological wonder. Gwen’s first day of high school feels authentic, from social tensions to rivalries like Morgan Moor and the Dreadmoor Gang. What really stood out to me was how the story weaves Arthurian legend into a modern setting without feeling forced. The presence of mermaids, elves, and other Fae adds charm and depth, while the Pendragon legacy gives the plot emotional weight. Gwen’s journey into magic feels earned and exciting. This book is a great recommendation for readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories mixed with folklore and mystery.

[John Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle by Mark is a refreshing take on modern fantasy rooted in classic legend. The setting of Camelot Cove is one of the book’s strongest features, it feels lived-in, mysterious, and quietly magical. I appreciated how Gwen starts as an ordinary teenager dealing with school pressures before discovering her connection to something much larger. The Fae community is diverse and imaginative, and Merlin’s influence adds a sense of ancient history guiding the present. The puzzle itself keeps the story moving, creating suspense without rushing character development. This book feels especially well-suited for young adult readers but is enjoyable for adults who love Arthurian lore. I’d easily recommend this to anyone looking for a warm, magical escape.

[ALYSA HORSMAN · Rating 4 out of 5]

What would you do if the town and people you have lived with your entire life suddenly changed over night? Gwen Ivers is about to find out.

Gwen is a normal teenage girl starting high school or so she thinks. The night of her first day she and the help of her friends open a puzzle box that is filled with unknown magic. One she is not ready for. With the guidance of her friends, her uncle Merle and the town priest, can she fully accept the magic within and take on what is lays in front of her?

Matt takes this small town of Camelot Cove and brings the world of King Arthur to life in this modern day retelling that readers can relate to. It was an enjoyable read, leaving me wanting more of the story.

[Morgan Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just finished Gwen Iver & Pendragon's Puzzle by Mark Piggott. If you are a fan of urban fantasy and classic myths, this needs to be on your TBR list immediately.

The story follows 15-year-old Gwen on her first day of high school, which quickly turns upside down when she opens an ancient, magical puzzle box. Unlocking it unleashes a world of Fae magic, dangerous secrets, and a reborn Morgana le Fay!

Gwen and her Friends work together to figure out how to navigate the ancient puzzle box! It sets off a fast-paced, addictive race against time. It perfectly balances magical secrets with real-world high school drama, keeping you guessing the entire time. I recommend picking this one up if you want to read a new take on Arthur reimagining set in modern world.

[Jennifer Wiehe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a truly imaginative and charming take on the Arthurian legend. I loved the clever hints at Round Table mythology and the way magical elements were woven so seamlessly into a contemporary setting. The relationship between Gwen and Merlin stood out to me; his protective nature following the loss of her parents added such a poignant emotional layer to the story. Gwen is a fantastic protagonist—her struggle to balance typical high school pressures with the weight of her heritage made her incredibly relatable and easy to cheer for. I am very much looking forward to continuing her journey in the upcoming sequel.
A special thank you to the author and SPACE Network for the opportunity to read this novel!

[Elsie Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A haunting magic hangs over Camelot Cove in Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle, as though the wind itself remembers forgotten kings. Mark conjures a world where shadows deepen around the Fae and destiny presses like a chill upon the skin. Gwen Iver, young yet bound to an ancient lineage, steps hesitantly into a legacy forged of light and sorrow. Her rivalry with the enigmatic Morgan Moor pulses with tension, almost like a prelude to a storm. The Pendragon’s Puzzle glows with eerie promise, threatening to reshape her life with every secret it unveils. Rich atmosphere and quiet intensity make this tale feel both intimate and grand.

[finn Kelvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle is a fun and inviting fantasy that mixes small-town life with Arthurian magic in a way that feels fresh and charming. Camelot Cove is a lively setting where humans and Fae live together, and Mark Piggott makes it easy to get pulled into the town’s secrets.

Gwen is a likable, down-to-earth heroine whose first day of high school suddenly shifts into something much bigger. Her journey into the legacy of the Pendragon is exciting without losing the warmth of her friendships and rivalries.

The story is imaginative, readable, and full of heart. If you enjoy light fantasy with magic, mystery, and a relatable young protagonist, this book is worth picking up.

[Clara Voss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Piggott delivers a magical and refreshing adventure in Gwen Iver & Pendragon’s Puzzle. Camelot Cove instantly feels alive with its blend of humans and Fae, creating a world rich in wonder. Gwen is a relatable, courageous heroine whose journey into the Pendragon legacy is both exciting and heartfelt. The rivalry with Morgan Moor heightens the tension, while Gwen’s friendships add warmth. Every chapter brings a perfect mix of mystery, magic, and personal growth. This book is a delightful escape for readers who love immersive world building and coming of age fantasy with a strong emotional pull.

[Longford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every chapter felt like uncovering a new piece of a larger magical puzzle, quite literally. Gwen’s attempts to unravel Pendragon’s Puzzle are suspenseful but never overwhelming. The mix of Fae species, each integrated naturally into the town’s rhythm, gives Camelot Cove a rich and unique atmosphere. The author does an excellent job of making the town feel lived-in. Gwen’s friendships and rivalries feel authentic, and her adventures bring out her courage and compassion. There’s something timeless about a story where a girl discovers she may be the heir to a powerful legacy. It’s inspiring, fun, and beautifully written.

[Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this book expecting a simple YA fantasy, but it captured my imagination far more than anticipated. Gwen faces the usual teenage challenges, yet her journey into the magical heritage of the Pendragon line sets her apart. The tensions with Morgan Moor and the Dreadmoor Gang add stakes that go beyond typical school drama. The Fae characters are fascinating, each with their own quirks and histories. I especially loved how the influence of Merlin and the Lady of the Lake still lingers in the village. The plot is paced perfectly, building toward a satisfying conclusion that still leaves room for future stories. I would gladly read more about Gwen’s adventures.