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Moxie's Problem
Do you like fantasy coming-of-age stories? You won’t find one more unusual or more humorous than Moxie’s Problem.
Moxie is an obnoxious, teenage princess who has led a sheltered life. Until now. She struggles to come to grips with reality. This fantasy comedy takes place against a backdrop of Camelot. But it’s a Camelot in a parallel universe.
In Moxie’s Problem, Moxie, a teenage princess, leaves her father’s castle for the first time to travel to her betroth’s home. She is escorted by three Knights of the Round Table, Percivale, Gareth and Bors. Along the way Moxie is stunned by the real world, so different from life in the castle. For one thing, the knights ignore her demands and her commands. They expect her to sleep on the ground, get up at dawn and eat what they can catch or find. Moxie notices how independent they are. The knights do what has to be done whether it’s deciding on a route or fighting brigands. Moxie realizes she hasn’t been trained to do anything. She doesn’t have a life.
When Moxie finally meets her betrothed, she hates him on sight, refuses to marry him, breaks the engagement and demands the knights to escort her home. Percivale and the others are reluctant to spend more time with Moxie but finally agree.
Moxie and the three knights suffer through more adventures together as she gradually puts together a plan to make something of her life. Moxie decides she wants to be the queen after her father dies. But her father refuses to name her as successor. Her uncle also wants the crown and tries to eliminate Moxie’s competition.
Meanwhile, Camelot strives to defeat the vicious Saxons on the football field. Merlin, a wizard, investigates the ‘Magic of the Mind’ using primitive Rorschach charts and Stonehenge is a theater-in-the-round. Sir Tristan writes a play that sounds like something Shakespeare will write a thousand years later. The three knights when not escorting Moxie go on quests in Sherwood Forest and what is now Scotland.
You can watch the trailer here: http://youtu.be/JMi98ZgyuTM
Ebook ISBN: 9780985779160
Moxie is an obnoxious, teenage princess who has led a sheltered life. Until now. She struggles to come to grips with reality. This fantasy comedy takes place against a backdrop of Camelot. But it’s a Camelot in a parallel universe.
In Moxie’s Problem, Moxie, a teenage princess, leaves her father’s castle for the first time to travel to her betroth’s home. She is escorted by three Knights of the Round Table, Percivale, Gareth and Bors. Along the way Moxie is stunned by the real world, so different from life in the castle. For one thing, the knights ignore her demands and her commands. They expect her to sleep on the ground, get up at dawn and eat what they can catch or find. Moxie notices how independent they are. The knights do what has to be done whether it’s deciding on a route or fighting brigands. Moxie realizes she hasn’t been trained to do anything. She doesn’t have a life.
When Moxie finally meets her betrothed, she hates him on sight, refuses to marry him, breaks the engagement and demands the knights to escort her home. Percivale and the others are reluctant to spend more time with Moxie but finally agree.
Moxie and the three knights suffer through more adventures together as she gradually puts together a plan to make something of her life. Moxie decides she wants to be the queen after her father dies. But her father refuses to name her as successor. Her uncle also wants the crown and tries to eliminate Moxie’s competition.
Meanwhile, Camelot strives to defeat the vicious Saxons on the football field. Merlin, a wizard, investigates the ‘Magic of the Mind’ using primitive Rorschach charts and Stonehenge is a theater-in-the-round. Sir Tristan writes a play that sounds like something Shakespeare will write a thousand years later. The three knights when not escorting Moxie go on quests in Sherwood Forest and what is now Scotland.
You can watch the trailer here: http://youtu.be/JMi98ZgyuTM
Ebook ISBN: 9780985779160
306 pages, Paperback
First published August 1, 2014
About the author
Hank Quense
84 books232 followersHank Quense writes satirical fantasy and sci-fi.
Early in his writing career, he was strongly influenced by two authors: Douglas Adams and his Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy and Joseph Heller’s Catch-22. Happily, Hank has never quite recovered from those experiences.
He runs a self-publishing and book marketing service, where he coaches new and seasoned writers—whether you’re just polishing your first draft or sweating over your book’s launch. If you have questions about getting your book out into the world or making it actually sell, hank is always happy to share what he's learned.
Besides writing novels, nonfiction books and coaching, Hank lectures on fiction writing, publishing and book marketing.
.He has two daughters and five grandchildren all of whom live close by.
For vacations, Hank usually visit distant parts of the galaxy. Occasionally, he also time-travels.
Early in his writing career, he was strongly influenced by two authors: Douglas Adams and his Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy and Joseph Heller’s Catch-22. Happily, Hank has never quite recovered from those experiences.
He runs a self-publishing and book marketing service, where he coaches new and seasoned writers—whether you’re just polishing your first draft or sweating over your book’s launch. If you have questions about getting your book out into the world or making it actually sell, hank is always happy to share what he's learned.
Besides writing novels, nonfiction books and coaching, Hank lectures on fiction writing, publishing and book marketing.
.He has two daughters and five grandchildren all of whom live close by.
For vacations, Hank usually visit distant parts of the galaxy. Occasionally, he also time-travels.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 4, 2015
Let me start this off by saying that I HATE super deep fantasy stories. Wizard, orcs, elves, ugh! No, thank you! I'm not a fan and never will be. And I ESPECIALLY hate King Arthur and all that knights of the round table garbage. It takes itself way too seriously, and I could never understand why. But just like Mark Twain turned all that seriousness on its head with A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court, Hank Quiense does a similar thing with his book, Moxie's Problem. But instead of using a modern day stranger who enters a strange world of chivalry and battle armor, Hank Quense does something even more impressive in that he uses characters within the King Arthur (Artie) universe and makes it funny. That's a feat all in itself.
What makes this story so funny is just how weird it is. Instead of grand scale battles, they play soccer. And instead of Moxie being a blushing damsel in distress, she's super annoying and even kind of ugly (I think I recall one scene where someone says they wouldn't kiss her because she has hair on her face!), so it's a nice switch-up of the tropes that we're all familiar and mostly tired of. But here's the thing. Moxie ISN'T annoying the entire story, and I think that's where this book shines the most. Even with all the humor with the other characters, what I think I like best about this book is Moxie's growth. By the end of the story, she's not the same character that she was in the beginning, which shows the true calling card of a master writer. It's incredible that I grew to like her toward the end of the book.
But I do have a big problem with this book, and that's the cover. I know you shouldn't judge a story by what's on the outside, but that cover is just too terrible not to talk about. If this book hadn't been recommended to me, there is no way I would have picked it up. That cover is just not appealing at all and it doesn't match the zany, craziness that happens within. If I had one recommendation for Mr. Quense, it would be to get rid of that cover! The writing is too good to be shackled down by such a crummy looking picture. Other than that, this book is fantastic. A little long, but it kept my interest throughout, so I applaud it. Give it a read.
What makes this story so funny is just how weird it is. Instead of grand scale battles, they play soccer. And instead of Moxie being a blushing damsel in distress, she's super annoying and even kind of ugly (I think I recall one scene where someone says they wouldn't kiss her because she has hair on her face!), so it's a nice switch-up of the tropes that we're all familiar and mostly tired of. But here's the thing. Moxie ISN'T annoying the entire story, and I think that's where this book shines the most. Even with all the humor with the other characters, what I think I like best about this book is Moxie's growth. By the end of the story, she's not the same character that she was in the beginning, which shows the true calling card of a master writer. It's incredible that I grew to like her toward the end of the book.
But I do have a big problem with this book, and that's the cover. I know you shouldn't judge a story by what's on the outside, but that cover is just too terrible not to talk about. If this book hadn't been recommended to me, there is no way I would have picked it up. That cover is just not appealing at all and it doesn't match the zany, craziness that happens within. If I had one recommendation for Mr. Quense, it would be to get rid of that cover! The writing is too good to be shackled down by such a crummy looking picture. Other than that, this book is fantastic. A little long, but it kept my interest throughout, so I applaud it. Give it a read.
January 29, 2018
I liked the diversity and originality of this novel.
Believeable and Relatable characters really help to captivate the reader and get them invested in the happenings of this story.
I really enjoyed the pacing and how it was steady throughout. It is fast paced and doesn't let up and didn't have moments that dragged. It made for a fast and furious read.
Believeable and Relatable characters really help to captivate the reader and get them invested in the happenings of this story.
I really enjoyed the pacing and how it was steady throughout. It is fast paced and doesn't let up and didn't have moments that dragged. It made for a fast and furious read.
January 13, 2018
This novel really starts off with a bang and doesnt let up. Moxie is a very strong lead and while I didn't always agree with her decisions, I did like her overall as a character.
She has a lot to deal with over the course of this novel.
I loved the way Hank Quense told the story. It was very well thought out and this really showed through the characters and setting.
A very wonderful Fantasy Novel with a lot of wit and humor laced throughout.
She has a lot to deal with over the course of this novel.
I loved the way Hank Quense told the story. It was very well thought out and this really showed through the characters and setting.
A very wonderful Fantasy Novel with a lot of wit and humor laced throughout.
January 24, 2018
Wow, this one really delivers in many areas. It is a thrilling Fantasy novel with teeth. Yes, it took a bit of to understand what was going on, but once in the heart of it, Hank Quense has the reader hooked.
As far as Characters, Plot, and Flow, everything was very well developed and smooth.
This novel was a great escape from reality as well as a quick and easy read
As far as Characters, Plot, and Flow, everything was very well developed and smooth.
This novel was a great escape from reality as well as a quick and easy read
January 11, 2018
This novel is jam packed. It is a novel that will have you immersed in the world Hank Quense has created. He really does a great job of setting the scene and giving the reader enough backstory about his world.
The characters are very well developed, complex, and multi dimensional which allows the reader to become invested.
Quense’s writing style is very direct. There is no skirting around things.
The overall flow of the novel was very well executed. The pacing was great, it didn’t feel rushed or like it dragged. It had the perfect flow.
The characters are very well developed, complex, and multi dimensional which allows the reader to become invested.
Quense’s writing style is very direct. There is no skirting around things.
The overall flow of the novel was very well executed. The pacing was great, it didn’t feel rushed or like it dragged. It had the perfect flow.
January 31, 2018
Dive into a world that I can guarantee is not a cookie cutter version of the genre.
I enjoyed Moxie as a main character. She was flawed and had her issues, but I think that it made her endearing.
I personally liked the fact that this novel is not predictable. You get a lot of clues throughout the novel about where the story is going, what secrets are being hidden, etc. But it really does take you a good part of the novel to put everything together. Kudos to Hank Quense for managing to keep the mystery alive in his novel.
I enjoyed Moxie as a main character. She was flawed and had her issues, but I think that it made her endearing.
I personally liked the fact that this novel is not predictable. You get a lot of clues throughout the novel about where the story is going, what secrets are being hidden, etc. But it really does take you a good part of the novel to put everything together. Kudos to Hank Quense for managing to keep the mystery alive in his novel.
November 23, 2016
Princess Moxie is a two-book set. I didn't realize that there were two books until I started reading. I thought that the book was too long, even for a full novel. Then, when I reached the end of the story, I realized there was another one. You know what it's like when you are sent e-books to be reviewed without the covers, right? I don't think the first few pages told me that this was a two-volume set. I just found out that the table of contents was the only indication. Who reads the table of contents? Anyway, I will only be reviewing the first volume -Moxie's Problem.
The story happened in the time of King Arthur and Camelot. Princess Moxie is a fat, simple-looking, self-centered and a spoiled princess. She grew up being attended to and ordering people around. Until she was told by her father, King Smedley, to travel to meet his future husband -Count Gamel. She is to be accompanied by three of the Knights of the Round Table but what she got were three knight apprentices who just graduated from the Heroes Guild -Sir Gareth, Bors and Percivale.
This is a hilarious and refreshing take on the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. How Princess Moxie smoothly stole, muscled and bullied her way into the story is even more amusing. This is a story of knights were not a lot of swords were used but a lot of playing football. Where the fate of a town or kingdom is battled through a game of football. Where the secret to defeating the Saxons was by upping your football plays and game plans. I also adored how the other legends like the Lady of the Lake, the Lochness monster, etc. were shown in a different light. Absolutely creative!
I also love that the story's main character, Princess Moxie, is a truly unique character, irritating at most. Far from the usual and typical princesses we encounter. I absolutely hate her. Much to my delight, Moxie's character underwent metamorphosis and I agreed with the changes that she planned to undertake. I felt sorry for the three young knights who had the misfortune of meeting her. She made their lives miserable. Fortunately, Moxie saw the error of her ways and the lack of her upbringing. This is indeed a very amusing and gratifying tale.
I gave the book 4/5 chests. This is a story which broke all stereotypes -for princesses and knights. Very refreshing! Princess Moxie is a character you will hate, feel sorry for and hope to succeed. I think this should have been more appropriately entitled as Moxie is the Problem instead of Moxie's Problem. She's causing headaches and sleepless nights to the three young knights.
Now, I am curious as to what fate awaits Moxie after all the misfortunes that she has to go through, which in a way serves her right. But like Moxie, I had a change of heart. I found that I was actually rooting for her to make the drastic changes she wants in her life. And I want her to succeed too. From the bully to the underdog, the unforgiving tale of Princess Moxie, who has no friends and even his own father wanted to get rid of her and just marry her off to the first person who expressed his intent.
I am still finishing volume two of Princess Moxie's story - Moxie's Decision. I am curious as what will be the next misadventures that she will go through with our three very unfortunate knights. Every time I think of Moxie's character, I can't help but shake my head. She is a piece of work which has turned into a work-in-progress. We'll see if she can finally be able to make someone of herself.
Half the fun of adventure is not knowing where you're going.Then, it's a surprise when you get there.
- Hank Quense, Moxie's Problem -
Thank you again, Librarything.com and Hank Quense for the giveaway copy.
The story happened in the time of King Arthur and Camelot. Princess Moxie is a fat, simple-looking, self-centered and a spoiled princess. She grew up being attended to and ordering people around. Until she was told by her father, King Smedley, to travel to meet his future husband -Count Gamel. She is to be accompanied by three of the Knights of the Round Table but what she got were three knight apprentices who just graduated from the Heroes Guild -Sir Gareth, Bors and Percivale.
This is a hilarious and refreshing take on the legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. How Princess Moxie smoothly stole, muscled and bullied her way into the story is even more amusing. This is a story of knights were not a lot of swords were used but a lot of playing football. Where the fate of a town or kingdom is battled through a game of football. Where the secret to defeating the Saxons was by upping your football plays and game plans. I also adored how the other legends like the Lady of the Lake, the Lochness monster, etc. were shown in a different light. Absolutely creative!
I also love that the story's main character, Princess Moxie, is a truly unique character, irritating at most. Far from the usual and typical princesses we encounter. I absolutely hate her. Much to my delight, Moxie's character underwent metamorphosis and I agreed with the changes that she planned to undertake. I felt sorry for the three young knights who had the misfortune of meeting her. She made their lives miserable. Fortunately, Moxie saw the error of her ways and the lack of her upbringing. This is indeed a very amusing and gratifying tale.
I gave the book 4/5 chests. This is a story which broke all stereotypes -for princesses and knights. Very refreshing! Princess Moxie is a character you will hate, feel sorry for and hope to succeed. I think this should have been more appropriately entitled as Moxie is the Problem instead of Moxie's Problem. She's causing headaches and sleepless nights to the three young knights.
Now, I am curious as to what fate awaits Moxie after all the misfortunes that she has to go through, which in a way serves her right. But like Moxie, I had a change of heart. I found that I was actually rooting for her to make the drastic changes she wants in her life. And I want her to succeed too. From the bully to the underdog, the unforgiving tale of Princess Moxie, who has no friends and even his own father wanted to get rid of her and just marry her off to the first person who expressed his intent.
I am still finishing volume two of Princess Moxie's story - Moxie's Decision. I am curious as what will be the next misadventures that she will go through with our three very unfortunate knights. Every time I think of Moxie's character, I can't help but shake my head. She is a piece of work which has turned into a work-in-progress. We'll see if she can finally be able to make someone of herself.
Half the fun of adventure is not knowing where you're going.Then, it's a surprise when you get there.
- Hank Quense, Moxie's Problem -
Thank you again, Librarything.com and Hank Quense for the giveaway copy.
August 26, 2015
Hank Quense is back with another hysterical Strange Worlds novel! In this latest addition, Hank uses his wit and humour to tell the story of some of England’s most famous folk tales. Stories such as the Knights of the Round Table and Robin Hood feature heavily in this very tongue-in-cheek parody.
The book follows three main stories which all become intertwined. The lead story is that of Moxie, a Princess of a minor Kingdom. Sadly unlike most fairy tale princesses, Moxie was not blessed with good looks or charm. Her father is desperate to get her married so she can produce an heir but because of her looks he is unable to find a suitor. Luckily, a petty Count from the north of England agrees to marry Moxie and her Father organises a patrol of Knights from the famous Knights of the Round Table (KRT) to accompany her on her travels.
The second tale is that of Percivale, Gareth and Bors. The trio have just graduated from the Heroes Guild and have landed their dream position of being apprentice Knights of the Round Table. They can’t wait to make their fortune by saving maidens and slaying dragons. However, to start with they must accompany Princess Moxie on her journey to her new husband. The Knights believe this task to be easy but the stubborn and unfriendly nature of Moxie means their work is cut out for them.
Finally, King Artie has managed to carve out a Kingdom for himself on the southern shores of England. After pushing marauding Saxons back into the sea, his small Kingdom of Camelot has become extremely prosperous and his Knights of the Round Table are renowned throughout Britain. However, Artie did not win his Kingdom through epic battles with the Saxons but instead through epic football games against them. Artie knows as spring approaches the Saxons will return for another go at the Brits. With his Knights drinking and sleeping most of the winter, Artie must come up with a new tactic to beat the Saxons once and for all on the football pitch!
I really enjoyed this novel. It was an extremely fun and tongue-in-cheek twist on many of England’s famous fairy-tales and folk stories. I loved the fact the armies didn’t fight battles against each other but played games of football instead on the ‘field of honour’. I thought this was a great twist Quense used to redefine these age old stories and fit them into the unusualness of his Strange World series.
Though I did enjoy the book, I did have one issue with it. I thought that Hank switched between the stories a little too often. One example of this was that he tells the story of Artie and Lancelot in the present tense and then tells a very similar story about them from 435 C.E. (15 years before). I sometimes found it very confusing to distinguish which tale I was reading about!
All in all, I really liked this book and read it in a couple of days! If you like the Discworld novels by Terry Practhett I think you’d really like this novel and the others in Hank’s Strange World series. I think both authors get the same amount of silliness and strangeness in their books which for me makes them a joy to read!
For more book reviews check out adam-p-reviews
November 17, 2014
Well let me tell you I have never ever laughed so hard while reading a book. It is a great spoof of all thing Camelot and king Arthur. Nothing is as it seems in this parallel universe. We have a princess who has never been out of the castle , a trendy king Artie an his knights of the round table. Moxie knows there is life outside the castle and wants a piece of the life just for a bit, but she finds out that real life is not all cracked up to be as she and her three knights take off on an adventure . Will Moxie find the life she wants or will she be married off . To find out you have to read the book
This was the first book I have read by Hank and omg I loved every minute of it. I loved how he has taken the points in history and added a twist to make it his own. In the book the knights aren't what they appear to be one is a accountant a chef and an artist. Who have to rescue her after she is kidnapped. Oh yeah don't forget the Saxons and The Knights on the battle field and what a battle it was. Lets just say the knights teach the Saxons a lesson as the English would call it the football field and as we call it the soccer field. I laughed so hard reading that scene. Things just get crazier from then on.
Hank takes us on a fun filled ride, he mixes real life with historical facts and lore. He makes each character their own. The serfs have their own slang in this book. It is a fun quick read that will leave you laughing and wanting to return to reread over and over. So if you want to read a book with hysterical characters that smoke hemp and make you laugh over and over . This is the book for you
Check it out .
March 28, 2015
Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite
Moxie’s Problem is a humorous fantasy by Hank Quense. Princess Moxie has a big problem. She is very homely looking and obnoxious, so has difficulty finding suitors. She eventually finds one and is escorted to him by King Arthur’s knights, Gareth, Bors and Percivale. Moxie’s accustomed to giving orders, but tests the knights’ patience with her non-stop nagging. It’s her first time venturing outside the castle and is overwhelmed by her surroundings. The journey inspires Moxie to become her father’s successor, and the princess hatches a plan to get her way, aware she’ll face opposition. Meanwhile, King Arthur constantly defends England against the Saxons by fighting them both in battle and football matches. Fortunately, he has hemp smoking Merlin to assist him, and Guinevere’s cheerleaders to distract the enemy.
Reading Moxie’s Problem will keep your attention with many challenges the knights endure, as well as Moxie’s dilemma. Hank Quense writes with a strong sense of humour so you’ll never get bored. He impresses me with his creative version of King Arthur and his knights, which has its setting in 434 C.E. It’s so original with good descriptive imagery, and you’ll meet a cast of colourful characters who’ll make you laugh. Although Moxie is ill-mannered, I understand the problems she encounters and admire her determination to solve them. She and the knights who escorted her kept me entertained, but loved the entire story. I like the cover illustration of Moxie. The novel is enjoyable and know its sequel will also be too.
Moxie’s Problem is a humorous fantasy by Hank Quense. Princess Moxie has a big problem. She is very homely looking and obnoxious, so has difficulty finding suitors. She eventually finds one and is escorted to him by King Arthur’s knights, Gareth, Bors and Percivale. Moxie’s accustomed to giving orders, but tests the knights’ patience with her non-stop nagging. It’s her first time venturing outside the castle and is overwhelmed by her surroundings. The journey inspires Moxie to become her father’s successor, and the princess hatches a plan to get her way, aware she’ll face opposition. Meanwhile, King Arthur constantly defends England against the Saxons by fighting them both in battle and football matches. Fortunately, he has hemp smoking Merlin to assist him, and Guinevere’s cheerleaders to distract the enemy.
Reading Moxie’s Problem will keep your attention with many challenges the knights endure, as well as Moxie’s dilemma. Hank Quense writes with a strong sense of humour so you’ll never get bored. He impresses me with his creative version of King Arthur and his knights, which has its setting in 434 C.E. It’s so original with good descriptive imagery, and you’ll meet a cast of colourful characters who’ll make you laugh. Although Moxie is ill-mannered, I understand the problems she encounters and admire her determination to solve them. She and the knights who escorted her kept me entertained, but loved the entire story. I like the cover illustration of Moxie. The novel is enjoyable and know its sequel will also be too.
September 9, 2014
This story is a spoof on King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table. It has a bit of everything from history to mythology to psychology and everything in between. Characters in the book include King Artie (Arthur), Guinevere, Robin' 'Oody (Robin Hood) and the main characters, Princess Moxie, Percivale (an artist). Bors,(accountant) and Gareth (Chef).
The story unfolds to find Princess Moxie is not a beautiful princess and will wind up a spinster until her father sends for 3 knights to take her to marry another king. That is when the 3 knights, Percivale, Bors and Gareth come in. Moxie is not the friendliest and treats everyone around her like dirt. As the knights take her to her future husband, they are put upon by trees and boulders that come alive all because of Moxie. Then the 3 knight have to rescue her again when she is kidnapped.
Moxie figures out as they are bringing her back home what she needs to do. And hopes that the 3 knights will assist her.
While that is going on, Quense adds team rivalry between King Artie's knights and the Saxons, in a hilarious game of football (soccer).
This book is filled with humor and gets you rooting for the good guys and also for Princess Moxie. This is Hank Quense at his best.
The story unfolds to find Princess Moxie is not a beautiful princess and will wind up a spinster until her father sends for 3 knights to take her to marry another king. That is when the 3 knights, Percivale, Bors and Gareth come in. Moxie is not the friendliest and treats everyone around her like dirt. As the knights take her to her future husband, they are put upon by trees and boulders that come alive all because of Moxie. Then the 3 knight have to rescue her again when she is kidnapped.
Moxie figures out as they are bringing her back home what she needs to do. And hopes that the 3 knights will assist her.
While that is going on, Quense adds team rivalry between King Artie's knights and the Saxons, in a hilarious game of football (soccer).
This book is filled with humor and gets you rooting for the good guys and also for Princess Moxie. This is Hank Quense at his best.
February 12, 2015
This just isn't a story about Moxie, as the titles character. It's about Arthur, Merlin, the Knights of the Round Table and definitely about Percivale, Bors & Gareth. Come to think of it, it's more about these three guys and their quests, a few of them involving Moxie, which is not to their liking. But getting back to Moxie. She's a princess and her father keeps trying to pawn her off to other people, marriage, kidnapping and the like. She's determined after she's kidnapped, that she really needs to be on her own. But, unfortunately, she doesn't have any skills, except to be nasty to those beneath her. She'll figure it out or so she hopes.
'Moxie realized she had to deal with the constant boredom issue and the only way to do that was to do something with her life. Something besides vegetating in her father's castle. That presented a difficult problem. She hadn't been trained to do anything. While she could read and write, she has no known talents, no known skills. So how was she suppose to decide what to do with the rest of her life?'
Monty Python meets Arthurian legend meets coming of age story, of a girl. I honestly could not stop laugh through the whole thing. It was a great parallel universe, where football solves problems. Highly recommend!
'Moxie realized she had to deal with the constant boredom issue and the only way to do that was to do something with her life. Something besides vegetating in her father's castle. That presented a difficult problem. She hadn't been trained to do anything. While she could read and write, she has no known talents, no known skills. So how was she suppose to decide what to do with the rest of her life?'
Monty Python meets Arthurian legend meets coming of age story, of a girl. I honestly could not stop laugh through the whole thing. It was a great parallel universe, where football solves problems. Highly recommend!
September 7, 2014
*This book was given for an honest review
Truth be told, at first I had low expectations for the book. I have to be honest, I don’t like the cover, and actually I despise the cover. But this book managed to prove me something really important “Never judge a book from the cover! NEVER”
The book had the most unique story ever written in the history. If you hate the usual stereotypes, then this book is written for you:
~ A beautiful, humble princess? Nope, Moxie is plain, and extremely annoying, but in the same time extremely true.
~ A hero? Yeah, right.
~ Wars? More like football/soccer games.
Yep, you heard that right. The kingdoms played football (soccer).
But there is something that remained in my heart. At some point Moxie understands that she wanted to be capable, and be the queen. Young girls are taught to make themselves look pretty, and find a good husband. But girls can achieve much more. I love it how Moxie understands slowly the importance of women in the society.
I disliked the use of dialects, because I couldn’t understand all of them.
I recommend this book to the ones, who want to read something fresh, and unique. This will blow your mind!
Truth be told, at first I had low expectations for the book. I have to be honest, I don’t like the cover, and actually I despise the cover. But this book managed to prove me something really important “Never judge a book from the cover! NEVER”
The book had the most unique story ever written in the history. If you hate the usual stereotypes, then this book is written for you:
~ A beautiful, humble princess? Nope, Moxie is plain, and extremely annoying, but in the same time extremely true.
~ A hero? Yeah, right.
~ Wars? More like football/soccer games.
Yep, you heard that right. The kingdoms played football (soccer).
But there is something that remained in my heart. At some point Moxie understands that she wanted to be capable, and be the queen. Young girls are taught to make themselves look pretty, and find a good husband. But girls can achieve much more. I love it how Moxie understands slowly the importance of women in the society.
I disliked the use of dialects, because I couldn’t understand all of them.
I recommend this book to the ones, who want to read something fresh, and unique. This will blow your mind!
September 4, 2014
Moxie's Problem by Hank Quense is a refreshing and delightful romp in the time of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. The eponymous Moxie is a grumpy and slightly spoiled teenage princess who is trying to find her way in the world. Surrounded by soccer-playing knights, Saxon bullies, family members with ulterior motives and a love-stricken Merlin, Moxie continues her struggle to affirm her place in this 6th century world.
With a modern and humorous twist, Quense takes the reader on a voyage back in time. You won't regret going with him.
With a modern and humorous twist, Quense takes the reader on a voyage back in time. You won't regret going with him.
January 18, 2015
Loving fiction and humour I was delighted reading Quense's last novel about princess Moxie who never stepped outside her castle and discovers that life is quite different out there.
The author has a tremendous imagination for setting up such a funny story plot and its characters. A page turner!
The author has a tremendous imagination for setting up such a funny story plot and its characters. A page turner!
September 4, 2014
I enjoyed this story, a nice twist on Camelot. Highly recommended.
August 22, 2025
Moxie’s Problem by Hank Quense is a funny and fast-paced fantasy set in a version of Camelot that feels both familiar and offbeat. At the center is Princess Moxie, a spoiled royal suddenly forced out of her comfort zone. She sets off with three knights and finds herself pulled into wild situations, strange traditions, and challenges that knock her pride down more than once. The story mixes satire and comedy with the awkward journey of a girl who has to face the real world for the first time. Along the way, well-known legends and old myths get turned upside down and retold in ways that are smart, odd, and hilarious. It’s a coming-of-age story dressed up as a parody, but underneath the humor, it’s about identity, self-discovery, and figuring out how to handle a world that doesn’t bend to your will.
Review: Quense’s Moxie’s Problem feels refreshing because it twists legends we all know and makes them ridiculous in the best way. The setup is playful, and the world is built with plenty of offbeat touches that keep the pages interesting. It’s a book that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to pull readers in. The characters aren’t shallow; they’re written with enough detail that even when the story leans into comedy, there’s still depth behind the jokes. The pacing works well, too. The action never drags, and the direct style of writing keeps the humor clear without extra clutter. The one weak spot is the way the book jumps between storylines, which can sometimes break focus. Still, the title lands perfectly because it captures both the funny and the serious side of Moxie’s struggle. This is the kind of story that will click with fans of satirical fantasy, young readers who like humor in their fiction, and anyone who enjoys a sharp twist on old tales. It gets four stars for originality, sharp character work, and being a genuinely fun read.
Review: Quense’s Moxie’s Problem feels refreshing because it twists legends we all know and makes them ridiculous in the best way. The setup is playful, and the world is built with plenty of offbeat touches that keep the pages interesting. It’s a book that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still manages to pull readers in. The characters aren’t shallow; they’re written with enough detail that even when the story leans into comedy, there’s still depth behind the jokes. The pacing works well, too. The action never drags, and the direct style of writing keeps the humor clear without extra clutter. The one weak spot is the way the book jumps between storylines, which can sometimes break focus. Still, the title lands perfectly because it captures both the funny and the serious side of Moxie’s struggle. This is the kind of story that will click with fans of satirical fantasy, young readers who like humor in their fiction, and anyone who enjoys a sharp twist on old tales. It gets four stars for originality, sharp character work, and being a genuinely fun read.
August 18, 2025
Moxie is a princess that has gone through it all. She is not the typical princess that you are accustomed to. She does not come out as warm, inviting, caring and the like. And to add to that, she is not strikingly beautiful as you would expect. However, despite all of these traits, I really empathized with her at some point.
Even though she is a princess, it is very difficult for her to find a suitor. Her mother died and she has to put up with her father’s constant pressures to get married. This is in order for them to get an heir to the throne. I feel that she comes out as a strong woman in the end who wants to change her life and make independent decisions.
Moxie’s Problem by Hank Quense is a fantasy read that is full of creativity and humor. I can say that the author has done a good job of ensuring that the reader is hooked to the different scenes in the read. I love the unique names of the characters and their role-play. This makes the story captivating! I can highly recommend it!
Even though she is a princess, it is very difficult for her to find a suitor. Her mother died and she has to put up with her father’s constant pressures to get married. This is in order for them to get an heir to the throne. I feel that she comes out as a strong woman in the end who wants to change her life and make independent decisions.
Moxie’s Problem by Hank Quense is a fantasy read that is full of creativity and humor. I can say that the author has done a good job of ensuring that the reader is hooked to the different scenes in the read. I love the unique names of the characters and their role-play. This makes the story captivating! I can highly recommend it!
August 23, 2025
This is a hard one to review negatively, as I felt there was so much potential in the Arthurian world Hank Quense set up in ‘Moxie’s Problem’. The characters are familiar enough that you can feel the sarcasm and wit in every word, but they remain relatable and true to their roots, however exaggerated in the book.
My main issue with the ‘story’ is the constant repetition, both of the character’s actions and the plot line. It felt like nothing was happening often; the characters were jumping around, and the author was more concerned with dropping little jokes than creating true conflict. Not to mention that nothing at all got resolved at the end, although there was some slight character development concerning Moxie.
My main issue with the ‘story’ is the constant repetition, both of the character’s actions and the plot line. It felt like nothing was happening often; the characters were jumping around, and the author was more concerned with dropping little jokes than creating true conflict. Not to mention that nothing at all got resolved at the end, although there was some slight character development concerning Moxie.
January 17, 2018
Don’t let the cover fool you. I will be completely honest, I almost talked myself out of reading because of the book cover. It isn’t very inviting to a reader. I like a little more cover appeal.
That being said, I think that Hank Quense has done a great job of using a mystical world to take us away. I loved the setting. It was medieval and historic, yet fantastical.
Everything about this novel just screams unique and imaginative. It was a crazy and fun ride.
That being said, I think that Hank Quense has done a great job of using a mystical world to take us away. I loved the setting. It was medieval and historic, yet fantastical.
Everything about this novel just screams unique and imaginative. It was a crazy and fun ride.
March 17, 2024
This is the type of novel that makes you wish you could read the next novel at once.
Humorous, witty and compelling. Liked the storytelling and the world building.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Humorous, witty and compelling. Liked the storytelling and the world building.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 17, 2025
The three knights are great characters, each with their own distinct personalities. The dynamic between them and Moxie is fantastic
October 11, 2016
When the author described Moxie as an obnoxious teenager I feel that he may have been a bit more forgiving than I would have been. Don’t misunderstand I don’t think he could of written a more obnoxious character because she does exceed one’s expectations of being over the top. Though there are moment where humanity seems to poke through her exterior, there becomes a hope that she might become a human being who can see outside of herself. Now this may be due to her upbringing, though entitled is a burden for any princess, given the typical spoiled only child and the loss of her mother seems to be at the root of Moxie. Her father has little to nothing for his daughter other than the hopes that he can get married off to produce an heir. Now I am pretty sure this was standard protocol with Kings way back when but there is an insidiousness to the way it is all gone about. Let’s not forget to mention the uncle that hopes all will fail so he can figure out how to get his son to inherit the kingdom. Then we have the knights, King Arthur, Merlin and Robin Hood all thrown into the mix. The apprentice knights tend to have their hands full when they encounter Moxie, being sent on an adventure by the knights. When reading the story you just can’t help but feel bad for these boys and hope that Moxie is worth her weight in gold. As the story goes they spend a great deal of their time delivering Moxie from one kingdom to another. Though there are other aspects of this story that don’t revolve around this bratty princess. The Knights of the Round Table and what happens while they are not out on adventures is explored, though the author did take some interesting turns with this story I found myself wanting to know more about the annoying teenager, even though I did get my fill of her behavior early on. Merlin was another character in this book that caught my attention. Not because I don’t know all the old stories but because there is a turn where he is looking at the “magic of the mind” which we would consider the first movement into thinking patterns. Overall the book kept my attention, though the football games I could have done without. They were a way to cut back on violence and keep the story light. It is a well told story and is set up in a way to make it a series without leaving the reader shaking their head at the way the book ends. There are many out there that leave off in such a way that it might not be worth reading the next book but I find the way this one ended gives me the notion that I will read the next one.
April 7, 2016
Moxie's Problem is set in Camelot but not the regular Camelot, this is a outside the box one with witches, sorcerers, football and gasp an homely self centered princess named Moxie. This is a sort of poke fun type of novel set in Camelot with a bunch of characters to get to know. I did find that a bit confusing at first. I really enjoyed the three apprentice knights - Percivale, Borrs and Gareth. Each of these young men have a hobby or like, cooking, accounting, drawing. They are a great team of knights.
Moxie is a spoiled princess but not in the sense that her father has given her love and everything she could want. He has put her away in her own area of the castle with her own maids and servants. She is self centered as she feels she is noble-born and should get her way. After an adventure with the three knights Moxie feels she needs something in her life to keep her busy, she decides she will be Queen and never get married.
Some times this novel reminded me of a Harry Potter theme. The story jumps around between the characters as we follow them on wacky adventures. I do wish we had more Moxie in it as I felt she wasn't the main focus but the three knights were.
I give this book a 3.5 stars out of 5 and will continue to on to Moxie's Decision. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Moxie is a spoiled princess but not in the sense that her father has given her love and everything she could want. He has put her away in her own area of the castle with her own maids and servants. She is self centered as she feels she is noble-born and should get her way. After an adventure with the three knights Moxie feels she needs something in her life to keep her busy, she decides she will be Queen and never get married.
Some times this novel reminded me of a Harry Potter theme. The story jumps around between the characters as we follow them on wacky adventures. I do wish we had more Moxie in it as I felt she wasn't the main focus but the three knights were.
I give this book a 3.5 stars out of 5 and will continue to on to Moxie's Decision. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2015
This book made me giggle a little while reading it. Moxie is a teenaged princess and she is obnoxious. Funny. I think this book was cute and magical and a fun read for me. I would read more from this author. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
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