What do you think?
Rate this book
Pendragon Rising #1
The Heir of the Lance
Pendragon The Heir of the Lance (Now Available on Kindle Unlimited!)
Camelot was once Arthur’s kingdom— Now it bends beneath the reign of King Mordred Lot... The only memory of Arthur is a lance, lodged in stone, unmoved.
Arion, a simple squire hoping only to earn a place among Camelot’s knights, never expected to touch it. He definitely never expected to pull it free. When Ron—the legendary Lance of King Arthur—awakens in his hands, the sky cracks with lightning and King Mordred declares him a traitor. Overnight, Arion becomes Camelot’s most hunted.
Now on the run with two friends and a monk, who knows more than he says, Arion must uncover the truth about the lance, the old legends, and the power awakening inside him. Because if the lance chose him… then it threatens the reign of the King and all that he's built.
A forgotten relic.
A kingdom on edge.
A boy who wasn’t supposed to matter… until he did.The Heir of the Lance is a fast-paced Arthurian fantasy filled
Knightly trials and brutal combat
Ancient magic tied to blood and legacy
Loyal companions and uneasy alliances
A kingdom built on stolen power
A legendary relic that chooses its bearer
Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson, Ranger’s Apprentice, and Arthurian retellings with a fresh twist, The Heir of the Lance launches the Pendragon Rising series—where destiny is forged not by crowns… but by courage.
Camelot was once Arthur’s kingdom— Now it bends beneath the reign of King Mordred Lot... The only memory of Arthur is a lance, lodged in stone, unmoved.
Arion, a simple squire hoping only to earn a place among Camelot’s knights, never expected to touch it. He definitely never expected to pull it free. When Ron—the legendary Lance of King Arthur—awakens in his hands, the sky cracks with lightning and King Mordred declares him a traitor. Overnight, Arion becomes Camelot’s most hunted.
Now on the run with two friends and a monk, who knows more than he says, Arion must uncover the truth about the lance, the old legends, and the power awakening inside him. Because if the lance chose him… then it threatens the reign of the King and all that he's built.
A forgotten relic.
A kingdom on edge.
A boy who wasn’t supposed to matter… until he did.The Heir of the Lance is a fast-paced Arthurian fantasy filled
Knightly trials and brutal combat
Ancient magic tied to blood and legacy
Loyal companions and uneasy alliances
A kingdom built on stolen power
A legendary relic that chooses its bearer
Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson, Ranger’s Apprentice, and Arthurian retellings with a fresh twist, The Heir of the Lance launches the Pendragon Rising series—where destiny is forged not by crowns… but by courage.
131 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2025
About the author
J.A. Graham
2 books15 followersJ.A. Graham is the author of Pendragon Rising: The Heir of the Lance, a young adult fantasy series inspired by Arthurian legend, loyalty, and the idea that legacy is forged—not inherited.
When he isn’t writing, J.A. Graham works in education and coaching, where storytelling, leadership, and resilience are part of everyday life. His writing blends myth, character-driven action, and coming-of-age themes, with a focus on found family, sacrifice, and choosing who you become when the world demands more than you expected.
He lives with his wife and children, whose encouragement and imagination fuel every story he tells.
The Pendragon Rising saga continues.
When he isn’t writing, J.A. Graham works in education and coaching, where storytelling, leadership, and resilience are part of everyday life. His writing blends myth, character-driven action, and coming-of-age themes, with a focus on found family, sacrifice, and choosing who you become when the world demands more than you expected.
He lives with his wife and children, whose encouragement and imagination fuel every story he tells.
The Pendragon Rising saga continues.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 28, 2026
A YA fantasy action with an amazing world building and good action scenes!
This first book is a very promising start of this series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This first book is a very promising start of this series!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2026
Pendragon Rising: The Heir of Lance is a fast, action-packed take on Arthurian legend that feels squarely aimed at a much younger YA reader.
The pacing is easily the book’s strongest feature. It kicks off quickly and barely slows down, with well choreographed fight scenes that are well written and easy to picture. The mystery surrounding the legendary weapon adds that classic fantasy element which keeps things interesting and gives the story a clear throughline.
Where it struggles is in the depth department. While the story moves fast the characters don’t get the same level of attention. The characters tend to fit more familiar archetypes and even though there is a good diversity of characters they come across as quite underdeveloped. There is not a lot of insight into what they’re thinking or feeling. Because of that, there seems to be a lot of movement but not a lot of reflection.
The worldbuilding has some intriguing ideas and a straightforward good-versus-evil political setup, but it feels more outlined than fully realized. You get the basics, but not quite enough texture or atmosphere to make the setting feel immersive. The prose is simple and accessible, which makes for a quick read, though at times the modern tone clashes slightly with the medieval-inspired setting.
Overall, It’s entertaining, easy to get through, and puts a fresh spin on familiar myth. It may not have the layered depth of heavier epic fantasy, but for younger readers this could be an enjoyable read.
The pacing is easily the book’s strongest feature. It kicks off quickly and barely slows down, with well choreographed fight scenes that are well written and easy to picture. The mystery surrounding the legendary weapon adds that classic fantasy element which keeps things interesting and gives the story a clear throughline.
Where it struggles is in the depth department. While the story moves fast the characters don’t get the same level of attention. The characters tend to fit more familiar archetypes and even though there is a good diversity of characters they come across as quite underdeveloped. There is not a lot of insight into what they’re thinking or feeling. Because of that, there seems to be a lot of movement but not a lot of reflection.
The worldbuilding has some intriguing ideas and a straightforward good-versus-evil political setup, but it feels more outlined than fully realized. You get the basics, but not quite enough texture or atmosphere to make the setting feel immersive. The prose is simple and accessible, which makes for a quick read, though at times the modern tone clashes slightly with the medieval-inspired setting.
Overall, It’s entertaining, easy to get through, and puts a fresh spin on familiar myth. It may not have the layered depth of heavier epic fantasy, but for younger readers this could be an enjoyable read.
March 24, 2026
I was honestly surprised to find myself giving this five stars not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because this isn’t my usual genre at all. Fantasy with battle scenes is something I typically struggle to stay engaged with, so I went into this a little unsure. But this completely surprised me in the best way.
What really stood out to me was how accessible it felt. Books in this genre can sometimes feel overwhelming or overly detailed for my taste, like when stories drag on or get too deep into the worldbuilding. This felt the opposite. It was quick, engaging, and easy to follow without losing the heart of the story. It held my attention right away and didn’t feel like a chore to get through, which is rare for me with this kind of book.
I also usually have a hard time keeping track of character names in fantasy, especially when they’re more unique, and while I still had a little bit of that here, it was much easier than what I’ve experienced in other books. That’s more of a me thing than anything, but it definitely didn’t take away from the story.
Overall, I thought this was really well done. It has a strong sense of heart, and you can tell the author put a lot of care into it.
This ended up being a really great introduction to a genre I don’t normally reach for, and I never once felt like I was forcing myself through it.
What really stood out to me was how accessible it felt. Books in this genre can sometimes feel overwhelming or overly detailed for my taste, like when stories drag on or get too deep into the worldbuilding. This felt the opposite. It was quick, engaging, and easy to follow without losing the heart of the story. It held my attention right away and didn’t feel like a chore to get through, which is rare for me with this kind of book.
I also usually have a hard time keeping track of character names in fantasy, especially when they’re more unique, and while I still had a little bit of that here, it was much easier than what I’ve experienced in other books. That’s more of a me thing than anything, but it definitely didn’t take away from the story.
Overall, I thought this was really well done. It has a strong sense of heart, and you can tell the author put a lot of care into it.
This ended up being a really great introduction to a genre I don’t normally reach for, and I never once felt like I was forcing myself through it.
January 26, 2026
I wish I could give this 3.5 stars instead of 3.......
The story begins with a high-stakes, cinematic prologue featuring King Arthur’s final battle against Mordred. This hook effectively establishes the conflict and the legend of the teal lance, Ron, before transitioning to Arion’s quieter life years later.
---------------------------------------
I enjoyed the fact that this was a shorter read—it makes for a quick, action-packed afternoon—but that brevity was also my main issue with the story. Because the book is so lean, the plot escalates almost immediately. We go from Arion being a humble squire in a small fishing village to facing off against King Mordred at a tournament in Camelot very quickly. I felt like there wasn’t enough buildup to the higher stakes, and I would have loved more time to sit with the characters before they were thrown into a life-or-death flight from the capital.
My biggest gripe, however, was the predictability. By Chapter 2, it was already very obvious exactly where the story was headed. Between the "hidden heir" setup and the way the prologue established the legend of the lance, Ron, the "shocks" later in the book didn't land with the impact they should have because I had seen them coming from a mile away
That said, there is a lot to like here. The action scenes are very well-written—the tournament melee and the battle against the Barghest on the mountain were definite highlights. I also really enjoyed Van; his wild, unpredictable purple magic added a fun element of chaos to the group dynamic.
The book ends on a massive cliffhanger that successfully sets up the next installment. If you’re looking for a quick, classic "chosen one" fantasy with some cool magical twists on Knights of the Round Table, this is worth a look—just don't expect to be surprised by the plot twists.
------------------------------------
This book is ideal for fans of Arthurian retellings and YA Epic Fantasy. Readers who enjoy "hidden heir" tropes mixed with magical tournament settings (like The Selection meets Excalibur) will find it compelling.
The story begins with a high-stakes, cinematic prologue featuring King Arthur’s final battle against Mordred. This hook effectively establishes the conflict and the legend of the teal lance, Ron, before transitioning to Arion’s quieter life years later.
---------------------------------------
I enjoyed the fact that this was a shorter read—it makes for a quick, action-packed afternoon—but that brevity was also my main issue with the story. Because the book is so lean, the plot escalates almost immediately. We go from Arion being a humble squire in a small fishing village to facing off against King Mordred at a tournament in Camelot very quickly. I felt like there wasn’t enough buildup to the higher stakes, and I would have loved more time to sit with the characters before they were thrown into a life-or-death flight from the capital.
My biggest gripe, however, was the predictability. By Chapter 2, it was already very obvious exactly where the story was headed. Between the "hidden heir" setup and the way the prologue established the legend of the lance, Ron, the "shocks" later in the book didn't land with the impact they should have because I had seen them coming from a mile away
That said, there is a lot to like here. The action scenes are very well-written—the tournament melee and the battle against the Barghest on the mountain were definite highlights. I also really enjoyed Van; his wild, unpredictable purple magic added a fun element of chaos to the group dynamic.
The book ends on a massive cliffhanger that successfully sets up the next installment. If you’re looking for a quick, classic "chosen one" fantasy with some cool magical twists on Knights of the Round Table, this is worth a look—just don't expect to be surprised by the plot twists.
------------------------------------
This book is ideal for fans of Arthurian retellings and YA Epic Fantasy. Readers who enjoy "hidden heir" tropes mixed with magical tournament settings (like The Selection meets Excalibur) will find it compelling.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2026
I received it as an ARC from the author, and while it's nothing I had ever read about or really had any previous knowledge of, I wanted to give it a try. This book was a great breather and palette cleanser from my usual 400+ pages books and I had such a great time reading it. It is book one in a five part series. I think this book, covered everything really well and surprisingly didn't feel rushed despite it being such a short read. The storyline was very well written and hooked the reader in very quickly. I would definitely recommend this to readers of most ages. It's fast and action-packed and I think it's perfect for YA or anyone who's just getting into the fantasy genre, especially because the size is unintimidating, unlike some fantasy novels that are 500+ pages. I look forward to reading the next book in this series!
May 19, 2026
Pendragon Rising: The Heir of the Lance by J.A. Graham is pure Arthurian fun from the first page to the last. It's fast-paced, action-packed, and a genuinely fun, easy read.
What makes this book so enjoyable, and hard to put down, is how immersive it is. The story throws you into the thick of it. Grueling challenges, a menacing villain to outrun, a mountain to scale, a ferocious beast to face, and a satisfying showdown with an evil underling. There's always something happening, and the momentum never lets up.
This book is perfect for younger readers and grown-ups who still love a great adventure story. A solid pick for anyone who wants to feel the magic of Arthurian legend with a fresh, energetic spin.
What makes this book so enjoyable, and hard to put down, is how immersive it is. The story throws you into the thick of it. Grueling challenges, a menacing villain to outrun, a mountain to scale, a ferocious beast to face, and a satisfying showdown with an evil underling. There's always something happening, and the momentum never lets up.
This book is perfect for younger readers and grown-ups who still love a great adventure story. A solid pick for anyone who wants to feel the magic of Arthurian legend with a fresh, energetic spin.
February 6, 2026
You know how sometimes you just know, before you even read a word, that you’re going to love a book? I knew the moment I saw this book that it was for me.
An Arthurian legend, an untried and unsuspecting hero, insurmountable odds, sword fights and a touch of magic. Perfect!
The Heir of the Lance is absolutely suitable for a middle grader to read, but it sits comfortably in the realm of adult reads as well.
The Pendragon Rising Saga provides a fresh twist on the legends we know so well. I await with eagerness for the next instalment. Do yourself a favour and immerse yourself in J.A. Graham’s world, a tale written for his son that will be beloved of all.
An Arthurian legend, an untried and unsuspecting hero, insurmountable odds, sword fights and a touch of magic. Perfect!
The Heir of the Lance is absolutely suitable for a middle grader to read, but it sits comfortably in the realm of adult reads as well.
The Pendragon Rising Saga provides a fresh twist on the legends we know so well. I await with eagerness for the next instalment. Do yourself a favour and immerse yourself in J.A. Graham’s world, a tale written for his son that will be beloved of all.
March 24, 2026
What 90s kid didn’t grow up loving stories of King Arthur. This was a fun, and nostalgic story centered around an Arthurian retelling that scratched an itch in my brain that I didn’t know I had.
The story starts off with a bang, then dives into a deeper story about young Arion, an earnest squire who gets thrown into a series of trials and tournaments to prove his worth.
What I really liked were the action sequences. It felt like i was a kid again, reliving other Arthurian stories.
What I wanted more of: I felt that some of the character moments felt just slightly rushed. I wanted more depth on why certain people were loyal or craved their backstories.
Overall, this was a fun read!
The story starts off with a bang, then dives into a deeper story about young Arion, an earnest squire who gets thrown into a series of trials and tournaments to prove his worth.
What I really liked were the action sequences. It felt like i was a kid again, reliving other Arthurian stories.
What I wanted more of: I felt that some of the character moments felt just slightly rushed. I wanted more depth on why certain people were loyal or craved their backstories.
Overall, this was a fun read!
January 20, 2026
As a lifelong Arthurian legend fan, Pendragon Rising: The Heir of the Lance by J.A. Graham absolutely blew me away! This book takes everything I love about the old tales;the honor, the prophecy, the magic, and gives it a fresh, fast-paced modern energy. I was hooked from the very first chapter and ended up reading the entire thing in one afternoon.Graham has crafted a gripping continuation of the Arthurian world, blending familiar myth with bold new twists that make the story feel both epic and personal. The pacing is sharp, the characters feel alive, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. It’s a perfect balance of action, heart, and legend.This is an incredible start to what I’m sure will be a phenomenal series, I genuinely can’t wait to see where the story goes after that final page!
January 22, 2026
Thoughts:
I just loved this sm, I couldn't stop reading it and got disappointed when it was already finished bc I just wanted MORE. This is the kind of book I've been looking for since I was younger but just couldn't find. Honestly, what I also loved is that this book is so straight to the point, a lot of fantasy books I read nowadays add so much information I can't even keep up, but this is so digestible that I didn't mind it at all. So yes, highly recommend and I hope to come back for the second book!
I just loved this sm, I couldn't stop reading it and got disappointed when it was already finished bc I just wanted MORE. This is the kind of book I've been looking for since I was younger but just couldn't find. Honestly, what I also loved is that this book is so straight to the point, a lot of fantasy books I read nowadays add so much information I can't even keep up, but this is so digestible that I didn't mind it at all. So yes, highly recommend and I hope to come back for the second book!
February 16, 2026
✨I absolutely loved this book! 📖 Such a short read that will take you on an epic adventure. It has been a long time since I have found a YA Fantasy that I absolutely fell in love with. The story follows Arion, a young squire that wants to be a knight. He has trained hard, and is now ready for the tournament! 🏟️ What happens after the tournament will change Arion’s life forever. I cannot WAIT for book 2!✨
April 7, 2026
I was totally surprised by how enjoyable the story is. This is not my go to genre but it totally got my attention the moment I started reading it. The characters are well written and their stories are easy to follow.
I love how the main plot unfolds and it makes you feel as if you know the story, but you don’t. It’s just a great read.
The main thing for me is that at the end of the book I was so excited to start reading the second part. Can’t wait for the next book!
I love how the main plot unfolds and it makes you feel as if you know the story, but you don’t. It’s just a great read.
The main thing for me is that at the end of the book I was so excited to start reading the second part. Can’t wait for the next book!
February 4, 2026
4.25 stars
If you enjoyed The Sword and The Stone, knights, and the kingdom of Camelot, you will absolutely love this super fast paced, engaging, and fun story.
It has fighting but the language is appropriate for the age range listed on Amazon. Id recommend this to any kid who likes fantasy! Takes me back to Wart and Merlin.
If you enjoyed The Sword and The Stone, knights, and the kingdom of Camelot, you will absolutely love this super fast paced, engaging, and fun story.
It has fighting but the language is appropriate for the age range listed on Amazon. Id recommend this to any kid who likes fantasy! Takes me back to Wart and Merlin.
January 23, 2026
I absolutely love the characters! The plot twists and the ending was absolutely perfect! A quick read that also allows you to think for a moment and ponder on each chapter. Absolutely loved this book! Can’t wait for book 2!!!
February 10, 2026
The Pendragon Rises
Full disclosure this new author is my nephew in-law. I originally started to read this book out of family loyalty, as it is written for younger readers. However, I was quickly drawn into the story. I read it in one sitting and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. The developing bonds between the characters are that of a found family. Each has their own reasons for being there but, they quickly realize that they are stronger together than alone. The battle scenes are good but should not be too intense for younger readers. I believe this book will engage the reader whether they are reading on their own or having it read aloud to them by a parent or teacher.
Full disclosure this new author is my nephew in-law. I originally started to read this book out of family loyalty, as it is written for younger readers. However, I was quickly drawn into the story. I read it in one sitting and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series. The developing bonds between the characters are that of a found family. Each has their own reasons for being there but, they quickly realize that they are stronger together than alone. The battle scenes are good but should not be too intense for younger readers. I believe this book will engage the reader whether they are reading on their own or having it read aloud to them by a parent or teacher.
February 12, 2026
I loved this book the world building and character development was amazing highly recommend
February 15, 2026
Gripping high stakes read....
This book was intense in all the right ways. It pulled me into a world that was thick with prophecy, political tension and ancient power. The action scenes were cinematic and so vivid, the grit and heart made this book so deeply satisfying. If you love powerful struggles and external battles, this is the book for you and you will not be disappointed.
This book was intense in all the right ways. It pulled me into a world that was thick with prophecy, political tension and ancient power. The action scenes were cinematic and so vivid, the grit and heart made this book so deeply satisfying. If you love powerful struggles and external battles, this is the book for you and you will not be disappointed.
January 16, 2026
This book is a perfect introduction to the young adult fantasy genre. An easy read that kept my interest from start to finish and left me waiting for what comes next! I am someone who is not really all that familiar with King Arthur lore, but that didn’t hinder my reading experience at all. Likable characters and a fast paced storyline with a couple twists makes this a great read in between your next series. Highly recommend for anyone but especially younger readers who are trying to up their book count or explore a new genre.
January 18, 2026
What a fun, fast paced read! Even if you had no knowlege of the story of King Arthur this would be easy to follow. The story has so much action and many nostalgic nods to the original. I read it in one sitting and can't wait to see where Arion's story takes him.
January 24, 2026
This was giving to me as an ARC here is my voluntarily and honest review.
This book is right to the point from the beginning I like that . I really enjoyed the book is short , straightforward and easy to understand. Arion’s journey from humble squire to potential heir of Camelot is gripping and emotional, and the worldbuilding adds a darker, political twist to classic legend. I can’t wait to read book 2 .
This book is right to the point from the beginning I like that . I really enjoyed the book is short , straightforward and easy to understand. Arion’s journey from humble squire to potential heir of Camelot is gripping and emotional, and the worldbuilding adds a darker, political twist to classic legend. I can’t wait to read book 2 .
January 13, 2026
This book is the perfect way to introduce your kids to the world of King Arthur. It’s a fun story that picks up where a familiar story leaves. There’s action and enough of it to keep you Intrigued. I couldn’t put it down.
January 23, 2026
I am a real sucker for anything that is about Arthurian legends so I had extrememly high expectations going into this book... and I'm glad to say that this gem did not disappoint!
Right off the bat, the prologue was engaging and really set the scene - it set up Mordred's character well. The world building in this book was great and drew vivid comparisons between life under Arthur the current world under Mordred. The fight/action scenes are fast-paced and enjoyable and there were a couple of moments I was genuinely on the edge of my seat.
The cast of characters was good and we had a mix of old characters of legend and newer characters who had a fresh take on the story.
Overall this is a fresh take on a much loved legend!
Right off the bat, the prologue was engaging and really set the scene - it set up Mordred's character well. The world building in this book was great and drew vivid comparisons between life under Arthur the current world under Mordred. The fight/action scenes are fast-paced and enjoyable and there were a couple of moments I was genuinely on the edge of my seat.
The cast of characters was good and we had a mix of old characters of legend and newer characters who had a fresh take on the story.
Overall this is a fresh take on a much loved legend!
February 26, 2026
This was a quick easy story for adults or kids that love history. If you loved King Arthur and the knights of the round table, or the stone and the sword. You’ll love this quick easy book. This was a fast action packed historical fantasy that would be perfect for the history lover in your life. It’s best rated for ages 7- adulthood.
May 9, 2026
I picked up Pendragon Rising: The Heir of the Lance expecting a fun Arthurian fantasy, but what I got was a surprisingly emotional and gripping adventure that kept me locked in from the very first chapter. J.A. Graham takes familiar legends and reshapes them into something that feels fresh, dangerous, and deeply personal.
Arlon immediately stood out to me as the kind of protagonist you can’t help rooting for. He isn’t some flawless chosen one with endless confidence. He feels real. He doubts himself, makes mistakes, and struggles with the overwhelming burden suddenly placed on him. Watching him go from an overlooked squire to someone hunted across the kingdom was one of the most satisfying character journeys I’ve read in a while.
What I loved most was the atmosphere. Camelot in this story is not shining and noble in the traditional sense. There’s tension everywhere, political manipulation, fear, betrayal, and the feeling that the kingdom is standing on the edge of collapse. That darker tone gave the story real stakes. Every decision felt important, and every alliance carried uncertainty.
The Lance itself was also handled brilliantly. Instead of feeling like just another magical object, it felt ancient, mysterious, and alive with purpose. The idea that the relic chooses its bearer added so much weight to Arlon’s journey. I found myself constantly wondering whether the lance was a blessing or a curse.
The action scenes were fantastic too. The combat had energy and intensity without becoming confusing, and the pacing never dragged. But even with all the battles and magic, the emotional moments between the characters were what stayed with me the most. The friendships, the loyalty, and the sacrifices made the story feel meaningful beyond the adventure itself.
This book reminded me why I fell in love with fantasy in the first place. It has the classic feel of legendary quests while still bringing something new to the table. If you enjoy Arthurian lore, hidden destinies, dangerous relics, and underdog heroes rising against impossible odds, this is absolutely worth reading. I’m genuinely excited to see where the series goes next because this felt like the beginning of something epic.
Arlon immediately stood out to me as the kind of protagonist you can’t help rooting for. He isn’t some flawless chosen one with endless confidence. He feels real. He doubts himself, makes mistakes, and struggles with the overwhelming burden suddenly placed on him. Watching him go from an overlooked squire to someone hunted across the kingdom was one of the most satisfying character journeys I’ve read in a while.
What I loved most was the atmosphere. Camelot in this story is not shining and noble in the traditional sense. There’s tension everywhere, political manipulation, fear, betrayal, and the feeling that the kingdom is standing on the edge of collapse. That darker tone gave the story real stakes. Every decision felt important, and every alliance carried uncertainty.
The Lance itself was also handled brilliantly. Instead of feeling like just another magical object, it felt ancient, mysterious, and alive with purpose. The idea that the relic chooses its bearer added so much weight to Arlon’s journey. I found myself constantly wondering whether the lance was a blessing or a curse.
The action scenes were fantastic too. The combat had energy and intensity without becoming confusing, and the pacing never dragged. But even with all the battles and magic, the emotional moments between the characters were what stayed with me the most. The friendships, the loyalty, and the sacrifices made the story feel meaningful beyond the adventure itself.
This book reminded me why I fell in love with fantasy in the first place. It has the classic feel of legendary quests while still bringing something new to the table. If you enjoy Arthurian lore, hidden destinies, dangerous relics, and underdog heroes rising against impossible odds, this is absolutely worth reading. I’m genuinely excited to see where the series goes next because this felt like the beginning of something epic.
January 23, 2026
Arthurian Fantasy is tricky because the story has been told so many times before. But I was happily surprised.
It has all the things you would suspect in a YA Arthurian Fantasie: Sir Lancelot, King Arthur, Excalibur, the knights of the round table. But this story is about what happens after the fall of King Arthur. The book grips you right away in the epilogue with King Arthur heading into battle. We then skip a few years and get to read about Arion who is competing in a tournament to become a knight for king Mordred, a brutal ruler that just want power and glory. The tournament itself is very fast paced, clean and easy to follow. To top it off, it has female knights, which I loved. After the tournament, a lost heir is found, people presumed dead re-surface and together they have to run for their lives.
This book kept me up reading way too long. I thought I knew what was going to happen a couple of times, like a certain monk being a father, but I was wrong most of the time. It had some nice turns and twist. One of those being: Van. At first It felt like a bit of a side-jump. Introducing a new character, one that has magic. But he ended up being my favorite character and if I could, I would have kept him!
It's very fast paced, funny (especially Van), well written and refreshing. It does leave you with some questions and of course, seeing as it’s the first book out of a series, it also leaves you with some cliffhangers. I do think it’s for the younger side of YA, but I’m an adult and I also loved it. I honestly can’t wait to see what happens in the next books with the runes, Arion, Shyla and of course, Van.
It has all the things you would suspect in a YA Arthurian Fantasie: Sir Lancelot, King Arthur, Excalibur, the knights of the round table. But this story is about what happens after the fall of King Arthur. The book grips you right away in the epilogue with King Arthur heading into battle. We then skip a few years and get to read about Arion who is competing in a tournament to become a knight for king Mordred, a brutal ruler that just want power and glory. The tournament itself is very fast paced, clean and easy to follow. To top it off, it has female knights, which I loved. After the tournament, a lost heir is found, people presumed dead re-surface and together they have to run for their lives.
This book kept me up reading way too long. I thought I knew what was going to happen a couple of times, like a certain monk being a father, but I was wrong most of the time. It had some nice turns and twist. One of those being: Van. At first It felt like a bit of a side-jump. Introducing a new character, one that has magic. But he ended up being my favorite character and if I could, I would have kept him!
It's very fast paced, funny (especially Van), well written and refreshing. It does leave you with some questions and of course, seeing as it’s the first book out of a series, it also leaves you with some cliffhangers. I do think it’s for the younger side of YA, but I’m an adult and I also loved it. I honestly can’t wait to see what happens in the next books with the runes, Arion, Shyla and of course, Van.
January 28, 2026
Thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book.
This is a brief read that progresses well.
The prologue shows us the death of King Arthur where he drives the legendary lance ‘Ron’ into the ground. Ron is a magical, electrical lance that only the true heir of Camelot can wield. (Why it’s called ‘Ron’, I’m not entirely sure; perhaps it’s a piece of Arthurian lore I’ve missed.)
This book was a decent start to what is going to be a series; the prose is flowing and engaging, despite the rather obvious formatting mishaps and occasional language errors. A new paragraph doesn’t always denote a new speaker, which would be confusing in a book with more characters.
Lancelot features in this book, so it held my interest.
My only gripe is that we’re told Mordred’s rule (he took over after killing Arthur) is terrible, yet his kingdom seems pretty fair: any pauper can throw in their lot to become a knight in his army, even women, making Mordred’s kingdom more liberal than most other Arthurian societies that have been depicted. We’re told things are awful, but besides being shown a few starving people in the poor part of town, don’t really feel it in the book’s world-building.
Arion is a decent character and we have his deadly-with-a-bow-and-arrow insta-love interest Shyla, as well as a magical sidekick for some comic relief. The book covers a short period and has plenty of action with a lot of (perhaps too many) fight scenes.
A quick and easy read for those who like books about what happens after the fall of Camelot.
This is a brief read that progresses well.
The prologue shows us the death of King Arthur where he drives the legendary lance ‘Ron’ into the ground. Ron is a magical, electrical lance that only the true heir of Camelot can wield. (Why it’s called ‘Ron’, I’m not entirely sure; perhaps it’s a piece of Arthurian lore I’ve missed.)
This book was a decent start to what is going to be a series; the prose is flowing and engaging, despite the rather obvious formatting mishaps and occasional language errors. A new paragraph doesn’t always denote a new speaker, which would be confusing in a book with more characters.
Lancelot features in this book, so it held my interest.
My only gripe is that we’re told Mordred’s rule (he took over after killing Arthur) is terrible, yet his kingdom seems pretty fair: any pauper can throw in their lot to become a knight in his army, even women, making Mordred’s kingdom more liberal than most other Arthurian societies that have been depicted. We’re told things are awful, but besides being shown a few starving people in the poor part of town, don’t really feel it in the book’s world-building.
Arion is a decent character and we have his deadly-with-a-bow-and-arrow insta-love interest Shyla, as well as a magical sidekick for some comic relief. The book covers a short period and has plenty of action with a lot of (perhaps too many) fight scenes.
A quick and easy read for those who like books about what happens after the fall of Camelot.
January 28, 2026
Pendragon Rising: The Heir of the Lance is a fast-paced and engaging YA Arthurian fantasy that explores Camelot after the fall of King Arthur, when Mordred rules and hope feels all but lost. The premise immediately draws you in, especially the idea of a young squire unexpectedly pulling Arthur’s legendary lance from the stone and becoming Camelot’s most wanted.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its pacing. At just over 130 pages, the story moves quickly while still giving enough room to establish the world, the stakes, and the larger series arc. The tournament scenes stand out in particular well-written, easy to follow, and used effectively to show the contrast between honor and cruelty under Mordred’s rule.
Arion is a likable and sympathetic protagonist. His quiet strength, sense of justice, and uncertainty about his destiny make him easy to root for, and the hints surrounding his past and future add intrigue without giving everything away too soon. The writing style is clear and accessible, making it a smooth and enjoyable read for YA fantasy fans.
Overall, this is a solid and promising first installment that blends classic Arthurian legend with a fresh perspective. It sets the foundation for a larger story and leaves you curious about what comes next. I’m definitely interested in continuing the series and seeing how Arion’s journey unfolds.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its pacing. At just over 130 pages, the story moves quickly while still giving enough room to establish the world, the stakes, and the larger series arc. The tournament scenes stand out in particular well-written, easy to follow, and used effectively to show the contrast between honor and cruelty under Mordred’s rule.
Arion is a likable and sympathetic protagonist. His quiet strength, sense of justice, and uncertainty about his destiny make him easy to root for, and the hints surrounding his past and future add intrigue without giving everything away too soon. The writing style is clear and accessible, making it a smooth and enjoyable read for YA fantasy fans.
Overall, this is a solid and promising first installment that blends classic Arthurian legend with a fresh perspective. It sets the foundation for a larger story and leaves you curious about what comes next. I’m definitely interested in continuing the series and seeing how Arion’s journey unfolds.
February 3, 2026
I think I may be a little too old for this book, but it’s definitely something I would have loved when I was younger. This Arthurian retelling follows the secret son of King Arthur as he discovers his true identity—and the danger it puts him in with his uncle, Mordred.
The novel hooks you immediately with an action-packed prologue, and that fast pace continues throughout, supported by entertaining and gripping plot twists. The main characters were enjoyable and likeable, though they occasionally felt a bit flat. My favourite was Van; his uncontrollable fire magic makes him stand out, and he serves as excellent comic relief—especially after moments where characters might have died (though I never believe a death until I see a body).
While the book does explore some darker plot points, they’re handled in a way that keeps the story appropriate for younger readers. Overall, this was a strong debut novel and a great introduction to Graham’s world and overarching plot. I’m definitely interested in seeing where this series goes next.
The novel hooks you immediately with an action-packed prologue, and that fast pace continues throughout, supported by entertaining and gripping plot twists. The main characters were enjoyable and likeable, though they occasionally felt a bit flat. My favourite was Van; his uncontrollable fire magic makes him stand out, and he serves as excellent comic relief—especially after moments where characters might have died (though I never believe a death until I see a body).
While the book does explore some darker plot points, they’re handled in a way that keeps the story appropriate for younger readers. Overall, this was a strong debut novel and a great introduction to Graham’s world and overarching plot. I’m definitely interested in seeing where this series goes next.
May 6, 2026
Okay, so I have a lot to say about this, but if you're looking for something quick, then here is my answer: It's a solid Arthurian Fantasy book that anyone who is a fan of that genre will likely enjoy, especially if you like fast-paced books. In that case I highly recommend.
For a more in-depth answer for those who want a little more. The pace of the novel is probably its greatest strength, as you are basically thrown right in and it never slows down, which I love. I love fantasy, and an Arthurian tale is a very traditional fantasy so it really hits the trad fantasy craving I get. But the storyline is slightly predictable since it is an Arthurian tale, but I personally feel like that's a common trait amongst this genre because everyone knows the storyline. Personally, I didn't go into this expecting any great plot twist because it's a King Arthur storyline. I don't think that deters from it too much thus I believe it is still worth the read. It carries a classic fantasy hero/knight vibe and thats a good thing in my opinion. So all in all, I highly recommend.
For a more in-depth answer for those who want a little more. The pace of the novel is probably its greatest strength, as you are basically thrown right in and it never slows down, which I love. I love fantasy, and an Arthurian tale is a very traditional fantasy so it really hits the trad fantasy craving I get. But the storyline is slightly predictable since it is an Arthurian tale, but I personally feel like that's a common trait amongst this genre because everyone knows the storyline. Personally, I didn't go into this expecting any great plot twist because it's a King Arthur storyline. I don't think that deters from it too much thus I believe it is still worth the read. It carries a classic fantasy hero/knight vibe and thats a good thing in my opinion. So all in all, I highly recommend.
January 19, 2026
This is a tale of what happens after King Arthur dies. We have found family and the forging of bonds through battle. This is such a great story for starting readers. You have the start of a love story and destiny. This draws you in and doesn't let you go. The way this story ends makes you wish you had the next one and makes you jaw drop. This is such a quick and great story. The detail that was put into this makes it jump out of the page. It is fast paced and keeps you in it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews