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Le Fay #2
Sword
Evil lurks. Camelot sits, vulnerable. The fate of a future king hangs in the balance.
After surviving a string of brutal trials, sixteen-year-old Morgan le Fay is an official member of Camelot. But beneath its shining façade, Camelot is a crumbling government where loyalties are divided.
Nobody believes Morgan’s suspicions that enemies are closing in. Prince Arthur, a boy more interested in playing video games than ruling, will not listen to her, and neither will Lancelot, Camelot’s head of security. Even Morgan's friend Merlin refuses to take action.
When Morgan discovers that someone is plotting to assassinate the future king, she must take her destiny—and his—into her own hands. With the sword Excalibur beckoning in the distance, Morgan embarks on a seemingly impossible mission. And before her journey ends, everyone will know what she is truly capable of . . .
In this second book in the LE FAY series, author Realm Lovejoy takes readers deep into the heart of a splintering Camelot.
_________
Praise for the first book in the LE FAY series, Henge:
"Camelot meets Hogwarts meets Panem in this intriguing, well-written beginning to a planned YA series."--Kirkus Reviews
After surviving a string of brutal trials, sixteen-year-old Morgan le Fay is an official member of Camelot. But beneath its shining façade, Camelot is a crumbling government where loyalties are divided.
Nobody believes Morgan’s suspicions that enemies are closing in. Prince Arthur, a boy more interested in playing video games than ruling, will not listen to her, and neither will Lancelot, Camelot’s head of security. Even Morgan's friend Merlin refuses to take action.
When Morgan discovers that someone is plotting to assassinate the future king, she must take her destiny—and his—into her own hands. With the sword Excalibur beckoning in the distance, Morgan embarks on a seemingly impossible mission. And before her journey ends, everyone will know what she is truly capable of . . .
In this second book in the LE FAY series, author Realm Lovejoy takes readers deep into the heart of a splintering Camelot.
_________
Praise for the first book in the LE FAY series, Henge:
"Camelot meets Hogwarts meets Panem in this intriguing, well-written beginning to a planned YA series."--Kirkus Reviews
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2015
1 person is currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Realm Lovejoy
7 books240 followersRealm Lovejoy is an American writer and an artist. She grew up in both Washington State and the Japanese Alps of Nagano, Japan. Currently she lives in Seattle and works as an artist in the video game industry. CLAN is her first book. You can find out more about her and her book at realmlovejoy.com
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
January 19, 2016
I love all things King Arthur and Camelot, so imagine my surprise when Henge (which I read last year), has a sequel already! And obviously, I had to have the book in my hands immediately and so I did. And now that I’ve finished the book, I find myself in a bit of a soup.
You see, this book has it all—action, drama, magic, even a romance. But what it lacked most, in my opinion, was a strong plot line. The book is a little over 300 pages, and I flew through the book like nobody’s business. It’s also true that I was expecting a lot more from Sword, but then I remembered a very crucial piece of the mystery that was my disappointment—The Middle Book Syndrome. It’s happened to me, a lot, and I can hardly remember a series wherein the books get better as the series proceeds. Nothing lives up to the brilliance that is the first book in the series and Sword, unfortunately, was pretty much the same. Once I remembered that—and accepted it—I was able to move past the chagrin, and try to focus on the things I did love about the book.'
Of course, more disappointment. I didn’t particularly love anything or anyone in the book. Morgan Le Fay, after the humiliation of having her adversary Merlin being declared as the King’s Maven, returns to her father and is absolutely devastated. She spent her entire training in Henge believing that she was more than good enough to be Maven, and proving it. However, she is not allowed to brood for very long, having signed a contract to be in service of Camelot, and she returns to the Palace on the day of the Maven’s initiation, and uncovers a plot that may lead to Prince Arthur’s assassination. So, she kidnaps the future King and decides to do the Maven’s duty herself—taking the surly Prince to Avalon, and having him touch the Excalibur.
In all honesty, Morgan was my greatest disappointment in the book. She was vastly different from the strong, ambitious, absolutely lethal girl that I had the honour to read in Henge. In Sword, she was basically a shadow of herself, unwilling to move beyond her embarrassment of not being named Maven. She made major decisions on a whim, without stopping to think of the circumstances, and that is something I didn’t expect from her. In the second part of the book, she becomes a victim, and that was even more painful to witness. She wouldn’t fight for life, she wouldn’t fight to live for her friends, but the most disturbing part was that she refused to tell the truth. She thought herself patriotic, and she justified everything she did with that excuse, but it just kind of backfired on her, and honestly, I’m not surprised. The girl had it coming.
Merlin was a bit of a wanker, in this book. He was thoroughly de-balled, it looked like, with no opinion of his own, and nothing that would convince me to accept him as the right hand of the King. Granted, he was pulled in all directions all the time, thanks to his feelings for Morgan on one hand, and his duty to the King on the other. I don’t remember being impressed by Merlin in Henge, and though there was too little of him in this book, there was honestly too little of everyone. Lancelot, however, surprised me by being the only character I was truly interested in. He had conflicted feelings about, well, everything, but he brought much needed equilibrium in the book. Where Morgan was quick to make decisions and hot-tempered, and Merlin was too cool for school, Lancelot was the voice reason. Thank God. Also, I have a ship, and it is not canon, and it sailed. A bit. YAY
I’m going to go into the next book of the series, partly because I’m interested to see what happens of Arthur and Morgan, on the front that Arthur has a case of the Stockholm Syndrome and Morgan is…she’s in deep shit. Also, my ship may sail, you guys. !!! The writing was much the same—I have no complains there—but I would have definitely like to see more everything. Less drama from Merlin, less misguided patriotism from Morgan, and more everything from Lancelot!
I was provided a free ecopy of this book by YABound Book Tours in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.
You see, this book has it all—action, drama, magic, even a romance. But what it lacked most, in my opinion, was a strong plot line. The book is a little over 300 pages, and I flew through the book like nobody’s business. It’s also true that I was expecting a lot more from Sword, but then I remembered a very crucial piece of the mystery that was my disappointment—The Middle Book Syndrome. It’s happened to me, a lot, and I can hardly remember a series wherein the books get better as the series proceeds. Nothing lives up to the brilliance that is the first book in the series and Sword, unfortunately, was pretty much the same. Once I remembered that—and accepted it—I was able to move past the chagrin, and try to focus on the things I did love about the book.'
Of course, more disappointment. I didn’t particularly love anything or anyone in the book. Morgan Le Fay, after the humiliation of having her adversary Merlin being declared as the King’s Maven, returns to her father and is absolutely devastated. She spent her entire training in Henge believing that she was more than good enough to be Maven, and proving it. However, she is not allowed to brood for very long, having signed a contract to be in service of Camelot, and she returns to the Palace on the day of the Maven’s initiation, and uncovers a plot that may lead to Prince Arthur’s assassination. So, she kidnaps the future King and decides to do the Maven’s duty herself—taking the surly Prince to Avalon, and having him touch the Excalibur.
In all honesty, Morgan was my greatest disappointment in the book. She was vastly different from the strong, ambitious, absolutely lethal girl that I had the honour to read in Henge. In Sword, she was basically a shadow of herself, unwilling to move beyond her embarrassment of not being named Maven. She made major decisions on a whim, without stopping to think of the circumstances, and that is something I didn’t expect from her. In the second part of the book, she becomes a victim, and that was even more painful to witness. She wouldn’t fight for life, she wouldn’t fight to live for her friends, but the most disturbing part was that she refused to tell the truth. She thought herself patriotic, and she justified everything she did with that excuse, but it just kind of backfired on her, and honestly, I’m not surprised. The girl had it coming.
Merlin was a bit of a wanker, in this book. He was thoroughly de-balled, it looked like, with no opinion of his own, and nothing that would convince me to accept him as the right hand of the King. Granted, he was pulled in all directions all the time, thanks to his feelings for Morgan on one hand, and his duty to the King on the other. I don’t remember being impressed by Merlin in Henge, and though there was too little of him in this book, there was honestly too little of everyone. Lancelot, however, surprised me by being the only character I was truly interested in. He had conflicted feelings about, well, everything, but he brought much needed equilibrium in the book. Where Morgan was quick to make decisions and hot-tempered, and Merlin was too cool for school, Lancelot was the voice reason. Thank God. Also, I have a ship, and it is not canon, and it sailed. A bit. YAY
I’m going to go into the next book of the series, partly because I’m interested to see what happens of Arthur and Morgan, on the front that Arthur has a case of the Stockholm Syndrome and Morgan is…she’s in deep shit. Also, my ship may sail, you guys. !!! The writing was much the same—I have no complains there—but I would have definitely like to see more everything. Less drama from Merlin, less misguided patriotism from Morgan, and more everything from Lancelot!
I was provided a free ecopy of this book by YABound Book Tours in exchange of an honest review. This did not in any way, however, influence the content of this review.
June 2, 2016
This was another read that I had a hard time putting down. Full of adventure and many twists and turns. There's a different mood to this second installment which readers of the first book will appreciate. Fast paced story line with strong characters. Readers of Arthurian legends will love this book and series.
February 11, 2016
Received in exchange for a honest review.
Wow just wow. I am loving this twist on the King Arthur tale. I am sad for Merlin and Morgan. This is like the Mists of Avalon with a twist. You know Morgan has some connection to Avalon. She gets the trust of Arthur and it is her who helps him find his magic and become more regal. The sadness is because Merlin is put in a no win situation and Morgan is too. They like each other. Merlin loves her but she does use him for good but still does. that isn’t what hurts him though. It is her decisions during the trial and it is this that has him harden towards her. So so sad. What I didn’t expect was the Lancelot/Morgan relationship. Even though she used him and disappointed him they still have a attraction.
A odd attraction that is tender as well. Lancelot is amazing at the end so understanding. Merlin truly steals the show with his range of emotions and becoming more down to earth and human. We see more of his vulnerability. How he is dealing with his new role and his love for Morgan while trying to forgive her for the sneakiness she went about. Although it was for good and keeping Arthur safe she was still underhanded. You do feel the most for Merlin in this book. I hated to see her cause him so much distress but I loved seeing her get backbone and find her moxy. she showed us what she was made of and what she would do to protect Arthur and his rule.
I loved the change we saw Arthur go through when with Morgan on the way to the sword in the stone. He starts out as a snotrag and turns into a more likeable mature character. He gains a friend. One who truly has his interests at heart. He gains confidence as well and shows compassion. He also sees what it means to be loyal and gives that in return. His protection of Morgan was wonderful to see.
I am wondering what is next. Arthur at the end lost his innocence and is more hardened by his father’s actions and what he had done to protect Morgan and help her. He learned so much about character from her. His dark side at the end is scary and I hope it is only temporary but what he did for Morgan was amazing. I do wonder where this will go next now that the pieces are in place. Lancelot is Arthur’s friend and protector. He and Morgan are close and trust one another. Morgan and Merlin are shaky with Morgan feeling the cold shoulder from Merlin and not knowing where she stands in anyplace right now. Merlin is the wizard and you wonder what his role will play. And Morgan will she go off to Avalon and become its priestess?
This is a fast paced exciting and adventurous story. we have characters grow and mature. show their loyalty to their country and protection of the crown. Love be seen and broken with trust as well being tenuous. the plot is character driven and we see more of Morgan’s past play out as well. Such a fascinating twist to the story of how Arthur gets the sword and becomes king with a new twist to Lancelot/Morgan and Morgan/Merlin stories. Can’t wait for the next.
Wow just wow. I am loving this twist on the King Arthur tale. I am sad for Merlin and Morgan. This is like the Mists of Avalon with a twist. You know Morgan has some connection to Avalon. She gets the trust of Arthur and it is her who helps him find his magic and become more regal. The sadness is because Merlin is put in a no win situation and Morgan is too. They like each other. Merlin loves her but she does use him for good but still does. that isn’t what hurts him though. It is her decisions during the trial and it is this that has him harden towards her. So so sad. What I didn’t expect was the Lancelot/Morgan relationship. Even though she used him and disappointed him they still have a attraction.
A odd attraction that is tender as well. Lancelot is amazing at the end so understanding. Merlin truly steals the show with his range of emotions and becoming more down to earth and human. We see more of his vulnerability. How he is dealing with his new role and his love for Morgan while trying to forgive her for the sneakiness she went about. Although it was for good and keeping Arthur safe she was still underhanded. You do feel the most for Merlin in this book. I hated to see her cause him so much distress but I loved seeing her get backbone and find her moxy. she showed us what she was made of and what she would do to protect Arthur and his rule.
I loved the change we saw Arthur go through when with Morgan on the way to the sword in the stone. He starts out as a snotrag and turns into a more likeable mature character. He gains a friend. One who truly has his interests at heart. He gains confidence as well and shows compassion. He also sees what it means to be loyal and gives that in return. His protection of Morgan was wonderful to see.
I am wondering what is next. Arthur at the end lost his innocence and is more hardened by his father’s actions and what he had done to protect Morgan and help her. He learned so much about character from her. His dark side at the end is scary and I hope it is only temporary but what he did for Morgan was amazing. I do wonder where this will go next now that the pieces are in place. Lancelot is Arthur’s friend and protector. He and Morgan are close and trust one another. Morgan and Merlin are shaky with Morgan feeling the cold shoulder from Merlin and not knowing where she stands in anyplace right now. Merlin is the wizard and you wonder what his role will play. And Morgan will she go off to Avalon and become its priestess?
This is a fast paced exciting and adventurous story. we have characters grow and mature. show their loyalty to their country and protection of the crown. Love be seen and broken with trust as well being tenuous. the plot is character driven and we see more of Morgan’s past play out as well. Such a fascinating twist to the story of how Arthur gets the sword and becomes king with a new twist to Lancelot/Morgan and Morgan/Merlin stories. Can’t wait for the next.
January 31, 2016
Read in 2015
Thank you to YA Bound Book Tours and author Realm Lovejoy for providing me with a copy of this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Sword is the second book in the Le Fay series by Realm Lovejoy and is even better than its predecessor, giving the first novel a run for its money in the high stakes department and taking readers on an exciting adventure from beginning to end!
Morgan le Fay managed to survive the brutal tests that saw her become an official member of Camelot. She may not have been chosen as the Maven with the job going to Merlin, but Morgan is still in service to the royal family, even if she believes there are suspicious things going on in Camelot. When new evidence comes to light and knowing no one who shares her suspicions is willing to help, Morgan takes drastic actions to protect Prince Arthur---going so far as to kidnap the young royal.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series Henge when I read it last year and was excited to have the chance to continue on with Morgan’s journey. Realm Lovejoy continues to detail Morgan’s story in spectacular fashion, and ensures readers will be sucked in from the very beginning of Sword. Fast paced, exciting and sensationally detailed, Lovejoy twists and weaves things together expertly and kept me hooked from the opening chapter.
There’s some fantastic storyline developments in this instalment, as well as a lot of danger for Morgan to face. As with the previous book, motives where other characters are concerned are always unclear, and just who can be trusted is always something to think about. Personally I love the kind of mystery and magic that is found in this series and can’t commend Lovejoy enough for how she’s writing the series so far!
Morgan is headstrong, vocal and not afraid to do what she feels is right. This means she often takes big chances and big risks, but you have to love a heroine who knows her own heart and follows it. Morgan has a secure definition of right and wrong, but isn’t afraid to break rules. Basically I think Morgan is really kick-ass and am loving following her so far—she’s my kind of gal!
There’s a lot of change within this novel with Morgan’s relationships with the other characters, especially with some unexpected news coming to light. Personally I’m interested to see what happens between Morgan and Merlin in the future, but considering what happens between her and Lancelot, Realm Lovejoy obviously isn’t afraid to mix things up. Morgan’s father Gorlis and Guinevere are strong supporters as ever, and Prince Arthur starts to show real substance in this novel.
With the ending shocking for a number of reasons, Realm Lovejoy concludes Sword at an interesting moment. I for one can’t wait to see what happens to Morgan next and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the next book as soon as it’s released!
Thank you to YA Bound Book Tours and author Realm Lovejoy for providing me with a copy of this in exchange for an honest review!
Find this review and more on my blog The Rest Is Still Unwritten!
Sword is the second book in the Le Fay series by Realm Lovejoy and is even better than its predecessor, giving the first novel a run for its money in the high stakes department and taking readers on an exciting adventure from beginning to end!
Morgan le Fay managed to survive the brutal tests that saw her become an official member of Camelot. She may not have been chosen as the Maven with the job going to Merlin, but Morgan is still in service to the royal family, even if she believes there are suspicious things going on in Camelot. When new evidence comes to light and knowing no one who shares her suspicions is willing to help, Morgan takes drastic actions to protect Prince Arthur---going so far as to kidnap the young royal.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series Henge when I read it last year and was excited to have the chance to continue on with Morgan’s journey. Realm Lovejoy continues to detail Morgan’s story in spectacular fashion, and ensures readers will be sucked in from the very beginning of Sword. Fast paced, exciting and sensationally detailed, Lovejoy twists and weaves things together expertly and kept me hooked from the opening chapter.
There’s some fantastic storyline developments in this instalment, as well as a lot of danger for Morgan to face. As with the previous book, motives where other characters are concerned are always unclear, and just who can be trusted is always something to think about. Personally I love the kind of mystery and magic that is found in this series and can’t commend Lovejoy enough for how she’s writing the series so far!
Morgan is headstrong, vocal and not afraid to do what she feels is right. This means she often takes big chances and big risks, but you have to love a heroine who knows her own heart and follows it. Morgan has a secure definition of right and wrong, but isn’t afraid to break rules. Basically I think Morgan is really kick-ass and am loving following her so far—she’s my kind of gal!
There’s a lot of change within this novel with Morgan’s relationships with the other characters, especially with some unexpected news coming to light. Personally I’m interested to see what happens between Morgan and Merlin in the future, but considering what happens between her and Lancelot, Realm Lovejoy obviously isn’t afraid to mix things up. Morgan’s father Gorlis and Guinevere are strong supporters as ever, and Prince Arthur starts to show real substance in this novel.
With the ending shocking for a number of reasons, Realm Lovejoy concludes Sword at an interesting moment. I for one can’t wait to see what happens to Morgan next and I’ll be keeping my eye out for the next book as soon as it’s released!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2017
"Sometimes it's easy to keep chasing an idea of who we are supposed to be. It's easy to miss what you can really become."
My rating: 3
Morgan's dream was to become Maven – the right hand of the future king Arthur, so when she's assigned to be the Black Knight instead, she's devastated. She's ready to give up on her life in Camelot and run away, when she finds out that Prince Arthur's life is still in danger, and when no one will believe her suspicions, Morgan needs to take the matters into her own hands.
Sword had all the makings of a great continuation to the fresh series and I was truly excited to pick it up after the ending of Henge, but I'm sad to say that I finished it somewhat disappointed.
The story picks up right where we left in Henge and once again, I was drawn into it right away. The pace felt a bit more fluid, while remaining fast, full of twists and mysteries, and the writing was as good as in the first book. I really enjoyed all the action scenes and they kept me at the edge of my seat – especially the fight in the woods.
I liked it that there was a lot more of Arthur in this installment and how much he grew up throughout the novel, going from spoiled kid to much more mature teenager. But the character that disappointed me big time was Morgan. In Henge she was my favourite. She was ambitious, strong-minded and sassy, and I found myself cheering for her. For the first part of Sword she was pretty much the same but something changed when they took her back to Camelot. I couldn't understand why she didn't tell them the whole story, why she didn't fight for her life and tell the truth. Her behaviour didn't make sense to me, when she was so adamant to shield Merlin. Merlin knew that Arthur was in danger and decided to do nothing, that's why Morgan had to save him herself, yet she continued to defend him and act as if she was the one at fault. The scenes between Morgan and Merlin in the second part of the book truly irritated me. Merlin treated her so badly and the whole guilt trip, no matter if well-intended, was just bad. I also found Morgan and Lancelot's relationship a bit forced, I think the book could do well without it, although I appreciate how he supported her during the trial.
I think that this story had so much potential but I just didn't like the way it turned. I personally believe that it could have been much better had the author decided to go a different route and develop another plot line - the secret behind Morgan's roots and what happened in Avalon, and I truly hope that we'll see more of it in the next book.
I have kindly received a copy of this book from YA Bound Book Tours and the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review also appeared on my blog.
My rating: 3
Morgan's dream was to become Maven – the right hand of the future king Arthur, so when she's assigned to be the Black Knight instead, she's devastated. She's ready to give up on her life in Camelot and run away, when she finds out that Prince Arthur's life is still in danger, and when no one will believe her suspicions, Morgan needs to take the matters into her own hands.
Sword had all the makings of a great continuation to the fresh series and I was truly excited to pick it up after the ending of Henge, but I'm sad to say that I finished it somewhat disappointed.
The story picks up right where we left in Henge and once again, I was drawn into it right away. The pace felt a bit more fluid, while remaining fast, full of twists and mysteries, and the writing was as good as in the first book. I really enjoyed all the action scenes and they kept me at the edge of my seat – especially the fight in the woods.
I liked it that there was a lot more of Arthur in this installment and how much he grew up throughout the novel, going from spoiled kid to much more mature teenager. But the character that disappointed me big time was Morgan. In Henge she was my favourite. She was ambitious, strong-minded and sassy, and I found myself cheering for her. For the first part of Sword she was pretty much the same but something changed when they took her back to Camelot. I couldn't understand why she didn't tell them the whole story, why she didn't fight for her life and tell the truth. Her behaviour didn't make sense to me, when she was so adamant to shield Merlin. Merlin knew that Arthur was in danger and decided to do nothing, that's why Morgan had to save him herself, yet she continued to defend him and act as if she was the one at fault. The scenes between Morgan and Merlin in the second part of the book truly irritated me. Merlin treated her so badly and the whole guilt trip, no matter if well-intended, was just bad. I also found Morgan and Lancelot's relationship a bit forced, I think the book could do well without it, although I appreciate how he supported her during the trial.
I think that this story had so much potential but I just didn't like the way it turned. I personally believe that it could have been much better had the author decided to go a different route and develop another plot line - the secret behind Morgan's roots and what happened in Avalon, and I truly hope that we'll see more of it in the next book.
I have kindly received a copy of this book from YA Bound Book Tours and the author in exchange for an honest review.
The review also appeared on my blog.
November 20, 2015
4.5 Stars for the second book in the LeFay series. It really should be be read in order.
Morgan LeFay is a gifted 16 year old, one of the strongest magic wielders in Camelot, and still, she was not selected to be the Maven, adviser to young Prince Arthur. No, that duty was awarded to Merlin, a boy in Morgan’s class who was clearly infatuated with her. But, Merlin’s got a checkered association with the Luminaries, a sect of magic wielders who seek to bring down the House of Pendragon, of which Arthur and King Uther are sprung. Being Maven seems a supreme conflict of interest for Merlin, and Morgan’s both frustrated and jealous.
And, depressed. Morgan returns to her father’s home to sulk instead of assuming her post as a Black Knight under the command of High Knight Lancelot. Lancelot comes to pry her from her sorrow, and it sets off a chain of events that I did not see coming. Morgan’s soon on the run–with Prince Arthur, a sulky teen if ever I read one, and searching high and low for the mystical Excalibur. The trip is dangerous, and Morgan has certainly signed her own death warrant by making this trip. It’s really a mission, one that she hopes will save Arthur from a Luminary plot. And she’s pledged her life to protecting Arthur.
The endearment that arises between them is good. It wasn’t sappy or anything. Arthur is a bit of a pill–he’s 14 and it shows–and he only slightly warms to Morgan in their adventure. He grows up A LOT in this experience. I liked that part. Lancelot and Merlin have very mixed feelings about Morgan. On one hand she’s a traitor, on the other she could be a patriot. And the murk surrounding the Luminaries plans keeps Morgan on a path to execution. Well, maybe.
This is a story that kept me guessing, and I felt engaged throughout. It’s a rather innocent tale, and a bit melancholy. I was grieved when Morgan was arrested, and felt that her new status, as a bearer of Pendragon’s Blessing, would have saved her, but it was not the case. The end is a fast and furious ride that includes a stay of execution in the most dire of ways. Arthur and Morgan have some reckonings to make, and I am eager to see how this plays out in the next book in this series. I also wonder how both Merlin and Lancelot will handle their feelings for Morgan going forward. I’m not certain that it qualifies as a “love triangle” as Morgan has only discovered romantic feelings, and they are set on one man–the one she cannot have. The resolution is sufficient for this volume, but the story remains active. Definitely recommend!
Morgan LeFay is a gifted 16 year old, one of the strongest magic wielders in Camelot, and still, she was not selected to be the Maven, adviser to young Prince Arthur. No, that duty was awarded to Merlin, a boy in Morgan’s class who was clearly infatuated with her. But, Merlin’s got a checkered association with the Luminaries, a sect of magic wielders who seek to bring down the House of Pendragon, of which Arthur and King Uther are sprung. Being Maven seems a supreme conflict of interest for Merlin, and Morgan’s both frustrated and jealous.
And, depressed. Morgan returns to her father’s home to sulk instead of assuming her post as a Black Knight under the command of High Knight Lancelot. Lancelot comes to pry her from her sorrow, and it sets off a chain of events that I did not see coming. Morgan’s soon on the run–with Prince Arthur, a sulky teen if ever I read one, and searching high and low for the mystical Excalibur. The trip is dangerous, and Morgan has certainly signed her own death warrant by making this trip. It’s really a mission, one that she hopes will save Arthur from a Luminary plot. And she’s pledged her life to protecting Arthur.
The endearment that arises between them is good. It wasn’t sappy or anything. Arthur is a bit of a pill–he’s 14 and it shows–and he only slightly warms to Morgan in their adventure. He grows up A LOT in this experience. I liked that part. Lancelot and Merlin have very mixed feelings about Morgan. On one hand she’s a traitor, on the other she could be a patriot. And the murk surrounding the Luminaries plans keeps Morgan on a path to execution. Well, maybe.
This is a story that kept me guessing, and I felt engaged throughout. It’s a rather innocent tale, and a bit melancholy. I was grieved when Morgan was arrested, and felt that her new status, as a bearer of Pendragon’s Blessing, would have saved her, but it was not the case. The end is a fast and furious ride that includes a stay of execution in the most dire of ways. Arthur and Morgan have some reckonings to make, and I am eager to see how this plays out in the next book in this series. I also wonder how both Merlin and Lancelot will handle their feelings for Morgan going forward. I’m not certain that it qualifies as a “love triangle” as Morgan has only discovered romantic feelings, and they are set on one man–the one she cannot have. The resolution is sufficient for this volume, but the story remains active. Definitely recommend!
January 20, 2025
This was definitely 5 stars.
I cannot emphasize how good this book was. I finished it all in 1 day. It was somewhat of a psychological thriller because it really is like what possessed Morgan to do that? Of course, we know why but somewhere along the way while doing what she was, Morgan sort of loses sense of why. She was only following her instincts and the adrenaline of ensuring Arthur was protected all after over-hearing a phone call and being aware of a secret group called the Luminaries are invested in destroying the entire Pendragon bloodline.
Why they're doing that? Why do they want to destroy the Pendragons? That is the pervading question within the series.
What we do know is that there are people who are possible suspects or are connected and possibly working in the group.
One known suspect is Ganeida, who seem to have a relationship to Merlin and Vivian.
Merlin
Vivian
And Mordred, who Morgan definitely believes might be and she personally believes doesn't have the Pendragons best interest at heart.
By the end, you also kind of realize the Pendragons aren't all good either, specifically Uther really.
And the power of the Pendragons that comes from the sword brings a lot of questions than answers. One thing for certain, the existence of Camelot comes from dark secrets and dark blood.
But what does it mean? For a King to be ravaged, betrayed, and to bleed for his people, specifically those around him. Is this a message about how monarchy merely takes and essentially is even inhuman to those who even represents it.
The world of this Camelot is modern and in a sense resembles ours. It doesn't seem appropriate to call it dystopian because of it but perhaps it is precisely because it does resembles ours.
The cruelty and inhumanity of the criminal justice system, how we treat prisoners, how things are seen black and white and are never grey. How we never bother to ask...though perhaps the Camelot in Morgan's world is more worse. When Morgan is put on trial, her view of things is never considered. She is never allowed to tell her own story.
What made this book just amazing is how Morgan is the "villian" but everything she's doing is to protect Arthur and how ultimately it's only Arthur who comes to trust her though he still questions her choices. Even her allies seem to view her a certain way...and I feel like this is a brilliant representation of Morgan of who she is and how she became to be looked at. In the end, she's a silent character merely having no choice to play the character society had chosen to given her instead of listening to why she did what she did. But she can't reveal anything because if she does she incriminates another who will face the inhumanity she faces in the book towards the end.
Anyway, I may have spoiled a lot but I gotta say "Sword" by Realm Lovejoy is a brilliant sequel and manage to surpass the book before.
5/5 stars.
I cannot emphasize how good this book was. I finished it all in 1 day. It was somewhat of a psychological thriller because it really is like what possessed Morgan to do that? Of course, we know why but somewhere along the way while doing what she was, Morgan sort of loses sense of why. She was only following her instincts and the adrenaline of ensuring Arthur was protected all after over-hearing a phone call and being aware of a secret group called the Luminaries are invested in destroying the entire Pendragon bloodline.
Why they're doing that? Why do they want to destroy the Pendragons? That is the pervading question within the series.
What we do know is that there are people who are possible suspects or are connected and possibly working in the group.
One known suspect is Ganeida, who seem to have a relationship to Merlin and Vivian.
Merlin
Vivian
And Mordred, who Morgan definitely believes might be and she personally believes doesn't have the Pendragons best interest at heart.
By the end, you also kind of realize the Pendragons aren't all good either, specifically Uther really.
And the power of the Pendragons that comes from the sword brings a lot of questions than answers. One thing for certain, the existence of Camelot comes from dark secrets and dark blood.
But what does it mean? For a King to be ravaged, betrayed, and to bleed for his people, specifically those around him. Is this a message about how monarchy merely takes and essentially is even inhuman to those who even represents it.
The world of this Camelot is modern and in a sense resembles ours. It doesn't seem appropriate to call it dystopian because of it but perhaps it is precisely because it does resembles ours.
The cruelty and inhumanity of the criminal justice system, how we treat prisoners, how things are seen black and white and are never grey. How we never bother to ask...though perhaps the Camelot in Morgan's world is more worse. When Morgan is put on trial, her view of things is never considered. She is never allowed to tell her own story.
What made this book just amazing is how Morgan is the "villian" but everything she's doing is to protect Arthur and how ultimately it's only Arthur who comes to trust her though he still questions her choices. Even her allies seem to view her a certain way...and I feel like this is a brilliant representation of Morgan of who she is and how she became to be looked at. In the end, she's a silent character merely having no choice to play the character society had chosen to given her instead of listening to why she did what she did. But she can't reveal anything because if she does she incriminates another who will face the inhumanity she faces in the book towards the end.
Anyway, I may have spoiled a lot but I gotta say "Sword" by Realm Lovejoy is a brilliant sequel and manage to surpass the book before.
5/5 stars.
February 25, 2016
Check out my original review on my blog: Readiculously Peachy
My Review:
I received a copy through the YA Bound Book Tour to read and review in return.
*Slight spoilers, please read the first book prior to reader this review!*
Sword is the second installment of the thrilling young adult series, Le Fay by Realm Lovejoy. From my review on the first book of this wonderful series, one can perhaaaps assume that I have completely fallen in love with Ralm Lovejoy's books. Her second book definitely did not disappoint! The direction Ms. Lovejoy decided to take with this book was completely unexpected. Compared to her first book, Henge, it was almost polar opposite. Sword exuded more of a melancholy feel, which only enhanced my addiction to the story.
I love how the book starts off almost exactly where we left off with Henge, granting the reader a fluent story line, knowing that absolutely nothing has been skipped. Morgan finds out she has not been selected to be King Arthur's Maven; instead she has been selected to become a Black Knight of Camelot. With deepest devastation and jealousy towards Merlin who has become Maven, she heads back home to her father to tell him the heart wrenching news. We discover a different side of Morgan, where she seems overwhelmingly demotivated and depressed to even carry out her role as Black Knight, but if she does not show up for her training she will be facing dire consequences.
When Lancelot pays her a visit, she is finally convinced to go to the Maven Ceremony, where Camelot will celebrate Merlin's new role as upcoming Maven. She also realizes that Prince Arthur is still in grave danger, and no one is planning on acting on this. She feels it is her responsibility and decides to head off back to Camelot. When Morgan arrives at the Ceremony with a heavy heart, the story takes a radical turn and the real suspense and action begins!
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Morgan's abilities are tested to the utmost potential and her bravery is pushed to the limit. This made me have even more admiration towards her. We also get to know Prince Arthur much better. As many may have already picked up from the first book, he has quite an immature and inexperienced persona for a 15-year old prince. In the beginning this is quite exhausting but at the same time believable as the reader needs to keep in mind that Arthur has never done anything for himself, who has always been cooped up behind the protective walls of Camelot. I loved witnessing the relationship development between Morgan and Arthur, which eventually turned out be be pleasantly surprising! Of course, having Merlin, Lancelot and even Mordred and Vivian appear back in this book was an absolute delight. There is however a noticeable shift in their characters and their relationship with Morgan, but this of course has a lot to do with the path Morgan decides take on her important and dangerous mission (but I refuse to confess any more details!).
My sense of addiction towards this book was just as strong as in the first book, but completely for different reasons. The actions which Morgan took in order to protect those she cares about are so incredible, and as I reader I solely wanted to find out why she did the things she did and what her fate would be in the end. It was absolutely thrilling and heart pounding, but without conveying any spoilers, Morgan heads on this crazy dangerous journey which results to very heavy and possibly fatal consequences. How the heck is she going to get out of this?!? (I must have screamed to myself a thousand times). Ms. Lovejoy is so talented in leaving the reader in the dark, fueling bits of information to create a wholesome breathtaking, emotional, enigmatic, and electrifying story.
Even though the second book held a complete different mood than the first book, Henge, I was once again fully bound to the story due to its dramatic twists and turn of events and new discoveries we encounter together with Morgan. It's absolutely stunning and a must read!!
P.S.: Realm Lovejoy is not only talented in her writing, but she's got some beautiful art work going on her blog. Check it out to get an even better idea what this amazing series is all about!
My Review:
I received a copy through the YA Bound Book Tour to read and review in return.
*Slight spoilers, please read the first book prior to reader this review!*
Sword is the second installment of the thrilling young adult series, Le Fay by Realm Lovejoy. From my review on the first book of this wonderful series, one can perhaaaps assume that I have completely fallen in love with Ralm Lovejoy's books. Her second book definitely did not disappoint! The direction Ms. Lovejoy decided to take with this book was completely unexpected. Compared to her first book, Henge, it was almost polar opposite. Sword exuded more of a melancholy feel, which only enhanced my addiction to the story.
I love how the book starts off almost exactly where we left off with Henge, granting the reader a fluent story line, knowing that absolutely nothing has been skipped. Morgan finds out she has not been selected to be King Arthur's Maven; instead she has been selected to become a Black Knight of Camelot. With deepest devastation and jealousy towards Merlin who has become Maven, she heads back home to her father to tell him the heart wrenching news. We discover a different side of Morgan, where she seems overwhelmingly demotivated and depressed to even carry out her role as Black Knight, but if she does not show up for her training she will be facing dire consequences.When Lancelot pays her a visit, she is finally convinced to go to the Maven Ceremony, where Camelot will celebrate Merlin's new role as upcoming Maven. She also realizes that Prince Arthur is still in grave danger, and no one is planning on acting on this. She feels it is her responsibility and decides to head off back to Camelot. When Morgan arrives at the Ceremony with a heavy heart, the story takes a radical turn and the real suspense and action begins!
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Morgan's abilities are tested to the utmost potential and her bravery is pushed to the limit. This made me have even more admiration towards her. We also get to know Prince Arthur much better. As many may have already picked up from the first book, he has quite an immature and inexperienced persona for a 15-year old prince. In the beginning this is quite exhausting but at the same time believable as the reader needs to keep in mind that Arthur has never done anything for himself, who has always been cooped up behind the protective walls of Camelot. I loved witnessing the relationship development between Morgan and Arthur, which eventually turned out be be pleasantly surprising! Of course, having Merlin, Lancelot and even Mordred and Vivian appear back in this book was an absolute delight. There is however a noticeable shift in their characters and their relationship with Morgan, but this of course has a lot to do with the path Morgan decides take on her important and dangerous mission (but I refuse to confess any more details!).
My sense of addiction towards this book was just as strong as in the first book, but completely for different reasons. The actions which Morgan took in order to protect those she cares about are so incredible, and as I reader I solely wanted to find out why she did the things she did and what her fate would be in the end. It was absolutely thrilling and heart pounding, but without conveying any spoilers, Morgan heads on this crazy dangerous journey which results to very heavy and possibly fatal consequences. How the heck is she going to get out of this?!? (I must have screamed to myself a thousand times). Ms. Lovejoy is so talented in leaving the reader in the dark, fueling bits of information to create a wholesome breathtaking, emotional, enigmatic, and electrifying story.
Even though the second book held a complete different mood than the first book, Henge, I was once again fully bound to the story due to its dramatic twists and turn of events and new discoveries we encounter together with Morgan. It's absolutely stunning and a must read!!
P.S.: Realm Lovejoy is not only talented in her writing, but she's got some beautiful art work going on her blog. Check it out to get an even better idea what this amazing series is all about!
July 26, 2017
My God, SHIT. WENT. DOWN! I cannot wait to read the next one! Oh, btw, I really like Arthur. He's sweet. Damn, that ending though...
January 11, 2016
After loving Realm, book one in the Le Fey series, the bar had been set high for Sword, book two. Did it reach it?
Not quite.
After failing to fulfil her destiny to become Arthur's Maven, Morgan uncovers a plot to harm the young future king Arthur. So she decides to throw caution to the wind, and kidnap him to take him to the mythical Avalon to uncover Excalibur. Realm Lovejoy gets the the right balance of burning ambition and fierce determination in Morgan so that you can believe every one of her actions, even when they seem utterly insane. Every seemingly stupid action she takes is justified, and it's a credit to the author that nothing Morgan does seems contrived for the sake of the plot, even if in theory they seem ludicrous, especially for a character so intelligent.
Sword is very much a book of two halves. The first sees Morgan and a reluctant Arther searching for Excalibur, following in her mother's footsteps. After uncovering the group working within Camelot to bring down the Pendragon family, Morgan finds no allies in the castle to help her protect the king. So she takes matters into her own hands. This half of the book; five stars. I loved it! Morgan is beaten and battered from what she sees as her failings and revelations about her past, and Arthur is a typically moody brat hauled out of the comfort of his castle for the first time in his life. They make a wonderful pair, their sniping eventually giving way to mutual understanding. I really wish their quest had gone on longer. Morgan seemed to find Excalibur ridiculously quickly considering that Camelot hadn't been able to find it in centuries.
The second half is where the book started to fall apart for me. After Morgan is captured and put on trial, the book devolves into a parade of characters saying how wonderful, powerful, beautiful, damaged and special Morgan is. The pace grinds to a halt. The not-quite-relationship between Morgan and Merlin is continued from Henge, even more heartbreaking here as Morgan realises what could have been between them. His visits to her in her prison are quietly devastating. I want these two to happen so much, but I know it's not going to happen, and if it does, it won't end well. I could have done without the needless love triangle with Lancelot though. Granted, he's described in book one as only a couple of years older than Morgan, but she's 16, he's in a position of power as the head of Arthur's guard (let's be generous and say he's in that role at a ludicrously early age, perhaps 19 rather than creepily older) and she's all sorts of screwed up when he spends the night with her in the dungeons. He calls her "kid" early in the book too and his early interactions with her are very much a teacher trying to coax a misbehaving child back to school, making his pursuit of her fall on the wrong side of gross.
I loved Morgan even more in this book than in Henge, her slow descent into madness beginning. She's a complex, almost anti-heroine, fighting for what she believes is right even to the detriment of everything and everyone aroud her. It's a shame that a big revelation about Morgan's heritage is robbed of its impact if you are familiar with Arthurian legend and it's an extra punch in the feels if you know them enough to have an inkling of where future books are going. As with book one, there were some "americanisms" in the book that would really take me out of the story as I was reading (for the record, no one in the UK says "making out". Ever.), and because of the story I felt that a book was alittle over descriptive at times, too much telling and not enough showing. Though as with Henge, the ending had me so frustrated! Honestly, I'm getting a bit fed up with books that end on such obvious cliffhangers for the sequels. Yes, give me a hook, but don't leave the story hanging mid scene. Books, movies, whatever, even if they're part of a series, should stand alone as a story with a beginning, middle and end. I want to be chomping at the bit to read book two, but I don't want to feel like a couple of chapters are missing from my copy of book one. The ending was just too abrupt for me and left me with a bit of a bad taste in my mouth. But all in Sword was an enjoyable read, if a little fumbled in execution in places, and, moans aside about endings, I know I'll be reading book three.
Not quite.
After failing to fulfil her destiny to become Arthur's Maven, Morgan uncovers a plot to harm the young future king Arthur. So she decides to throw caution to the wind, and kidnap him to take him to the mythical Avalon to uncover Excalibur. Realm Lovejoy gets the the right balance of burning ambition and fierce determination in Morgan so that you can believe every one of her actions, even when they seem utterly insane. Every seemingly stupid action she takes is justified, and it's a credit to the author that nothing Morgan does seems contrived for the sake of the plot, even if in theory they seem ludicrous, especially for a character so intelligent.
Sword is very much a book of two halves. The first sees Morgan and a reluctant Arther searching for Excalibur, following in her mother's footsteps. After uncovering the group working within Camelot to bring down the Pendragon family, Morgan finds no allies in the castle to help her protect the king. So she takes matters into her own hands. This half of the book; five stars. I loved it! Morgan is beaten and battered from what she sees as her failings and revelations about her past, and Arthur is a typically moody brat hauled out of the comfort of his castle for the first time in his life. They make a wonderful pair, their sniping eventually giving way to mutual understanding. I really wish their quest had gone on longer. Morgan seemed to find Excalibur ridiculously quickly considering that Camelot hadn't been able to find it in centuries.
The second half is where the book started to fall apart for me. After Morgan is captured and put on trial, the book devolves into a parade of characters saying how wonderful, powerful, beautiful, damaged and special Morgan is. The pace grinds to a halt. The not-quite-relationship between Morgan and Merlin is continued from Henge, even more heartbreaking here as Morgan realises what could have been between them. His visits to her in her prison are quietly devastating. I want these two to happen so much, but I know it's not going to happen, and if it does, it won't end well. I could have done without the needless love triangle with Lancelot though. Granted, he's described in book one as only a couple of years older than Morgan, but she's 16, he's in a position of power as the head of Arthur's guard (let's be generous and say he's in that role at a ludicrously early age, perhaps 19 rather than creepily older) and she's all sorts of screwed up when he spends the night with her in the dungeons. He calls her "kid" early in the book too and his early interactions with her are very much a teacher trying to coax a misbehaving child back to school, making his pursuit of her fall on the wrong side of gross.
I loved Morgan even more in this book than in Henge, her slow descent into madness beginning. She's a complex, almost anti-heroine, fighting for what she believes is right even to the detriment of everything and everyone aroud her. It's a shame that a big revelation about Morgan's heritage is robbed of its impact if you are familiar with Arthurian legend and it's an extra punch in the feels if you know them enough to have an inkling of where future books are going. As with book one, there were some "americanisms" in the book that would really take me out of the story as I was reading (for the record, no one in the UK says "making out". Ever.), and because of the story I felt that a book was alittle over descriptive at times, too much telling and not enough showing. Though as with Henge, the ending had me so frustrated! Honestly, I'm getting a bit fed up with books that end on such obvious cliffhangers for the sequels. Yes, give me a hook, but don't leave the story hanging mid scene. Books, movies, whatever, even if they're part of a series, should stand alone as a story with a beginning, middle and end. I want to be chomping at the bit to read book two, but I don't want to feel like a couple of chapters are missing from my copy of book one. The ending was just too abrupt for me and left me with a bit of a bad taste in my mouth. But all in Sword was an enjoyable read, if a little fumbled in execution in places, and, moans aside about endings, I know I'll be reading book three.
November 25, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Many thanks to YA Bound Book Tours for offering this review opportunity and supplying a copy of the novel.
Why I read it: I was so excited to learn that Sword had finally been released! But I didn't get a chance to read it until the new year. The first novel, Henge was such good fun!
Plot: Morgan returns to Camelot, trying to figure out how she can protect Prince Arthur from those that want him dead without having the role of his Maven (which went to Merlin). She can't help but think it's her destiny to take him to Excalibur, so he can realise his full potential instead of being so engrossed in his video games.
My Thoughts: I am conflicted about this one. The plot felt incredibly thin to me, and a little odd.
Morgan returns to Camelot and pretty much immediately kidnaps Prince Arthur, convinced it's up to her to get him to Avalon and Excalibur; despite the fact that it is not her official role.
Now, I can understand the need that Morgan feels to do something. But what I can't understand is that she refuses to tell anyone else her fears, she doesn't trust others and it seems to me that she doesn't trust herself either. Just prior to her grabbing him and running, she throws up a prayer so she won't do it; but she does anyway. It's like she thinks fate is taking over, and she's not responsible for her own decisions.
In the first novel I adored Morgan as a character. She was fierce and stubborn and determined. This time she felt the opposite. She was weak and made stupid decisions that she didn't own. She gave up, resigned herself to her 'fate'. Where was her fighting spirit? Where was the flame we had in the first book?
Sword focused on Morgan and Arthur for a large chunk of the novel; I found their interactions tedious and was a little bored as we seemingly kept going around in circles. The only good thing going for it, was that Arthur grew as a character. He went from being a snotty, bratty kid to having his eyes opened to the world.
Once the action returned to Camelot it picked up; perhaps helped by the fact there were more than two characters around. Both Merlin and Lancelot tried to fight for Morgan when she refused to fight for herself. I honestly would have liked to have seen things from their point of view to get a more complete story.
As much as I struggled with the first half of the book, I found myself getting a bit teary toward the end. It was emotionally draining and a little bit horrible (in a good way, if that makes sense?) and what an ending it was.
Sword was also really well written, I enjoy Realm Lovejoy's writing style immensely (and I feel so bad that I didn't love this one :( )
Despite the trouble I had with Sword, as a whole it was a good novel. I just wish the first part had been stronger. I rated 2 stars for the first half and 4 stars for the second, so my rating falls in between this time.
In Brief: An at times tedious continuation of the Le Fay Series, though it picked up in the second half. I'm afraid this suffers from 'second book syndrome' if you will, that place where things have to happen for the story to continue. I will definitely continue this series, as I'm sure the third book will be great if the conclusion of this second one is anything to go by!
Many thanks to YA Bound Book Tours for offering this review opportunity and supplying a copy of the novel.
Why I read it: I was so excited to learn that Sword had finally been released! But I didn't get a chance to read it until the new year. The first novel, Henge was such good fun!
Plot: Morgan returns to Camelot, trying to figure out how she can protect Prince Arthur from those that want him dead without having the role of his Maven (which went to Merlin). She can't help but think it's her destiny to take him to Excalibur, so he can realise his full potential instead of being so engrossed in his video games.
My Thoughts: I am conflicted about this one. The plot felt incredibly thin to me, and a little odd.
Morgan returns to Camelot and pretty much immediately kidnaps Prince Arthur, convinced it's up to her to get him to Avalon and Excalibur; despite the fact that it is not her official role.
Now, I can understand the need that Morgan feels to do something. But what I can't understand is that she refuses to tell anyone else her fears, she doesn't trust others and it seems to me that she doesn't trust herself either. Just prior to her grabbing him and running, she throws up a prayer so she won't do it; but she does anyway. It's like she thinks fate is taking over, and she's not responsible for her own decisions.
In the first novel I adored Morgan as a character. She was fierce and stubborn and determined. This time she felt the opposite. She was weak and made stupid decisions that she didn't own. She gave up, resigned herself to her 'fate'. Where was her fighting spirit? Where was the flame we had in the first book?
Sword focused on Morgan and Arthur for a large chunk of the novel; I found their interactions tedious and was a little bored as we seemingly kept going around in circles. The only good thing going for it, was that Arthur grew as a character. He went from being a snotty, bratty kid to having his eyes opened to the world.
Once the action returned to Camelot it picked up; perhaps helped by the fact there were more than two characters around. Both Merlin and Lancelot tried to fight for Morgan when she refused to fight for herself. I honestly would have liked to have seen things from their point of view to get a more complete story.
As much as I struggled with the first half of the book, I found myself getting a bit teary toward the end. It was emotionally draining and a little bit horrible (in a good way, if that makes sense?) and what an ending it was.
Sword was also really well written, I enjoy Realm Lovejoy's writing style immensely (and I feel so bad that I didn't love this one :( )
Despite the trouble I had with Sword, as a whole it was a good novel. I just wish the first part had been stronger. I rated 2 stars for the first half and 4 stars for the second, so my rating falls in between this time.
In Brief: An at times tedious continuation of the Le Fay Series, though it picked up in the second half. I'm afraid this suffers from 'second book syndrome' if you will, that place where things have to happen for the story to continue. I will definitely continue this series, as I'm sure the third book will be great if the conclusion of this second one is anything to go by!
March 16, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the first book in the Le Fay series. Dearly. It's still one of my favorite indie books of all time--BUT I think Sword was even better. Yes, you read that right, better. No second book slump whatsoever, which is pretty rare. The characters, plot, the various emotions...everything was just beautiful.
I enjoyed reading about Morgan in the first book mostly because she was such an intriguing character. That intrigue continues in Storm, but more so. The book really delves into her mental state; there's a lot of focus on her emotions, which I loved but at times I could not stand because I just wanted her to be okay is that too much to ask. (That goes to show how emotionally invested in this series I am, so not necessarily a bad thing.) There are some shocking reveals about her past in this book, which I did not see coming at all. These reveals really added to her relationship with Prince Arthur.
Prince Arthur was a character I had no real feelings for in Henge, mostly because he was not shown very often. That changes in Storm, and I ended up really loving him. He's a very complicated character; not spoiled like he originally seems to be, but instead a very damaged kid. He and Morgan have a complicated, yet endearing, relationship. The way this plays into his personality is very interesting to see, and it adds a bit of ambiguity to how his character will turn out in the next book.
Merlin...I cannot describe how I feel about Merlin. He summons up a well of mixed emotions in me. I can't really say I want Morgan and him to end up together--I think their relationship has become a bit too complicated and borderline-toxic for that to happen, so sorry to anyone who ships them but I am rooting against that. However, despite my reservations on that end, I really do like reading about him, because he's not a black-or-white character. Sometimes I will hate him and sometimes I will feel extremely sorry for him. My feelings for him have not really changed since the last book.
BUT...LANCELOT. LANCELOT IS NOW ONE OF MY FAVORITE CHARACTERS AND I SHIP HIM AND MORGAN I SHIP IT SO HARD. I thought he was a bit boring in Henge, but seeing him care for Morgan and be so tender to her really awakened my feelings for him. He is a precious person, and I want him and Morgan to be happy forever together.
The plot was fantastically executed. There were some very tense moments; up until the very end, I was not sure how the book would end. In most second-books-in-a-series, the plot kind of drags--it's more of a bridge from the first book to the second book than its own entity. In Sword, the book wastes no time; there is action right from the start, and even when the book slows down a bit, there are revelations and emotionally-packed scenes that kept me interested.
I cannot wait to finish the rest of the Le Fay series. If the next book is as good as this one, I know I will love it. Even if you have never read the Arthurian legends--or, like me, you read them when you were eight, thought they were dumb, and subsequently forgot most of the story--I guarantee you will still be able to love these wonderful, wonderful books.
I loved the first book in the Le Fay series. Dearly. It's still one of my favorite indie books of all time--BUT I think Sword was even better. Yes, you read that right, better. No second book slump whatsoever, which is pretty rare. The characters, plot, the various emotions...everything was just beautiful.
I enjoyed reading about Morgan in the first book mostly because she was such an intriguing character. That intrigue continues in Storm, but more so. The book really delves into her mental state; there's a lot of focus on her emotions, which I loved but at times I could not stand because I just wanted her to be okay is that too much to ask. (That goes to show how emotionally invested in this series I am, so not necessarily a bad thing.) There are some shocking reveals about her past in this book, which I did not see coming at all. These reveals really added to her relationship with Prince Arthur.
Prince Arthur was a character I had no real feelings for in Henge, mostly because he was not shown very often. That changes in Storm, and I ended up really loving him. He's a very complicated character; not spoiled like he originally seems to be, but instead a very damaged kid. He and Morgan have a complicated, yet endearing, relationship. The way this plays into his personality is very interesting to see, and it adds a bit of ambiguity to how his character will turn out in the next book.
Merlin...I cannot describe how I feel about Merlin. He summons up a well of mixed emotions in me. I can't really say I want Morgan and him to end up together--I think their relationship has become a bit too complicated and borderline-toxic for that to happen, so sorry to anyone who ships them but I am rooting against that. However, despite my reservations on that end, I really do like reading about him, because he's not a black-or-white character. Sometimes I will hate him and sometimes I will feel extremely sorry for him. My feelings for him have not really changed since the last book.
BUT...LANCELOT. LANCELOT IS NOW ONE OF MY FAVORITE CHARACTERS AND I SHIP HIM AND MORGAN I SHIP IT SO HARD. I thought he was a bit boring in Henge, but seeing him care for Morgan and be so tender to her really awakened my feelings for him. He is a precious person, and I want him and Morgan to be happy forever together.
The plot was fantastically executed. There were some very tense moments; up until the very end, I was not sure how the book would end. In most second-books-in-a-series, the plot kind of drags--it's more of a bridge from the first book to the second book than its own entity. In Sword, the book wastes no time; there is action right from the start, and even when the book slows down a bit, there are revelations and emotionally-packed scenes that kept me interested.
I cannot wait to finish the rest of the Le Fay series. If the next book is as good as this one, I know I will love it. Even if you have never read the Arthurian legends--or, like me, you read them when you were eight, thought they were dumb, and subsequently forgot most of the story--I guarantee you will still be able to love these wonderful, wonderful books.
December 4, 2015
My Review:
This book will contain some spoilers from the first book.
Without hesitation I was so excited to get a copy of this book to read. The second book in the Le Fay Series brings all the magic with the first and a lot more questions. I loved the first book and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite series.
Morgan is now home, upset that she wasn’t chosen to be Maven to Prince Arthur but evil still lurks and Morgan feels like she needs to be the one to save the royal family but one event after another proves difficult and now her life is on the line.
I was so happy to get back to modern day Camelot and seeing Morgan grow a little from the last book. She is still trying to find her place in this world and is completely dedicated to Camelot even if some of her actions may not seem that way. I truly believe she has a kind heart and only wants what is best. I am loving the relationship she has with Merlin and Lancelot and you really see that grow a lot in this book. Lots of great feels when it comes to those two guys and her. I am usually not a fan of books that are sort of a set up book for the next one but this was done very well and I am eager to find out what happens next. Like I really need to have the next book, like, now.
This world of Camelot is just so interesting and I love how it is played out. I am excited to see where Miss Lovejoy takes the characters next. A lot happens in this book and at one point they revealed something that I was pretty much shocked until I realized I already knew that but when you are reading you sort of forget about the original story of King Arthur, she just has this amazing way of telling this story that makes you forget. I do wish a few of the questions from the first book was answered and you do get a lot more in this book but it didn’t make me love the book even less not knowing. In all honestly it has made me excited to read the next book to find out what happens to these characters.
Morgan is such an amazing MC and I love following her along on this journey. I can’t wait to see what she does next and how Merlin and Lancelot will fit in. This is a fantastic read and must be read in order. Great book for anyone that loves the Camelot legend and wont mind an awesome modern day twist but even if it isn’t your favorite I can’t recommend this series enough! A must read!
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
This book will contain some spoilers from the first book.
Without hesitation I was so excited to get a copy of this book to read. The second book in the Le Fay Series brings all the magic with the first and a lot more questions. I loved the first book and this is quickly becoming one of my favorite series.
Morgan is now home, upset that she wasn’t chosen to be Maven to Prince Arthur but evil still lurks and Morgan feels like she needs to be the one to save the royal family but one event after another proves difficult and now her life is on the line.
I was so happy to get back to modern day Camelot and seeing Morgan grow a little from the last book. She is still trying to find her place in this world and is completely dedicated to Camelot even if some of her actions may not seem that way. I truly believe she has a kind heart and only wants what is best. I am loving the relationship she has with Merlin and Lancelot and you really see that grow a lot in this book. Lots of great feels when it comes to those two guys and her. I am usually not a fan of books that are sort of a set up book for the next one but this was done very well and I am eager to find out what happens next. Like I really need to have the next book, like, now.
This world of Camelot is just so interesting and I love how it is played out. I am excited to see where Miss Lovejoy takes the characters next. A lot happens in this book and at one point they revealed something that I was pretty much shocked until I realized I already knew that but when you are reading you sort of forget about the original story of King Arthur, she just has this amazing way of telling this story that makes you forget. I do wish a few of the questions from the first book was answered and you do get a lot more in this book but it didn’t make me love the book even less not knowing. In all honestly it has made me excited to read the next book to find out what happens to these characters.
Morgan is such an amazing MC and I love following her along on this journey. I can’t wait to see what she does next and how Merlin and Lancelot will fit in. This is a fantastic read and must be read in order. Great book for anyone that loves the Camelot legend and wont mind an awesome modern day twist but even if it isn’t your favorite I can’t recommend this series enough! A must read!
Thank you so much for stopping by to check out my review
Hope you have a great day and Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
January 7, 2019
I received this book for free from YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Sword is the second book to Realm Lovejoy's Le Fay series, occurring shortly after Arthur's Round in Camelot reveals the Maven. When I compare the sequel to Henge , I'm not a huge fan of Sword – the book has a few good parts and bad parts that causes me to favor the first book over the second book.
Lovejoy first captivated me into the series with her modernization of Arthurian folklore – Camelot is integrated within the real world with technology and just comes across in the novel as something completely normal and acceptable by the rest of the world. Sword, however, doesn't really introduce us to anything new world-wise aside from a few new places within Camelot (dungeons are cool?) and Avalon.
Just like in the first book, Morgan is an ambitious person who will do anything to try and reach her goals. Much grief and questioning ensue when she doesn't get what she wants, but she ultimately decides it's not exactly the end of the world if she isn't chosen as Arthur's Maven as her visions determined. Morgan decides to take action into her own hands when she discovers that Arthur might potentially be in danger from a group called The Luminaries, who are trying to look for her for some reason. Everyone else chooses not to believe her or take her words into consideration and assume she's a little crazy in the head primarily because she didn't get the honor of being Maven.
In all honesty, just an injection of pity party for Morgan. But I like her good intentions, so I'm going to stick around and see if she becomes more batzy crazy sometime in the next few books. However, in the case of discovering something a lot more about Morgan's past, not much will be revealed, and anything revealed continues to shroud Morgan in a mystery.
Overall, Sword feels more like a bridge between the first and third book in the series – not exactly a novella, not exactly a progression either. But not having Sword between the two books wouldn't work either because the book unveils a few new plot twists towards the end that will leave readers interested in following the series into the third book and possibly beyond.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
Sword is the second book to Realm Lovejoy's Le Fay series, occurring shortly after Arthur's Round in Camelot reveals the Maven. When I compare the sequel to Henge , I'm not a huge fan of Sword – the book has a few good parts and bad parts that causes me to favor the first book over the second book.
Lovejoy first captivated me into the series with her modernization of Arthurian folklore – Camelot is integrated within the real world with technology and just comes across in the novel as something completely normal and acceptable by the rest of the world. Sword, however, doesn't really introduce us to anything new world-wise aside from a few new places within Camelot (dungeons are cool?) and Avalon.
Just like in the first book, Morgan is an ambitious person who will do anything to try and reach her goals. Much grief and questioning ensue when she doesn't get what she wants, but she ultimately decides it's not exactly the end of the world if she isn't chosen as Arthur's Maven as her visions determined. Morgan decides to take action into her own hands when she discovers that Arthur might potentially be in danger from a group called The Luminaries, who are trying to look for her for some reason. Everyone else chooses not to believe her or take her words into consideration and assume she's a little crazy in the head primarily because she didn't get the honor of being Maven.
In all honesty, just an injection of pity party for Morgan. But I like her good intentions, so I'm going to stick around and see if she becomes more batzy crazy sometime in the next few books. However, in the case of discovering something a lot more about Morgan's past, not much will be revealed, and anything revealed continues to shroud Morgan in a mystery.
Overall, Sword feels more like a bridge between the first and third book in the series – not exactly a novella, not exactly a progression either. But not having Sword between the two books wouldn't work either because the book unveils a few new plot twists towards the end that will leave readers interested in following the series into the third book and possibly beyond.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts
September 14, 2020
4.5/5 stars
Oh. My. God. This book is too freaking amazing.
**I received a copy from the author for an honest review. Everything is 100% my own opinion.**
Full Review:
I'm currently writing this instead of paying attention in class because I just finished this book and I can't get it out of my head. I really enjoyed Henge and I've been anticipating the second book for forever. This book DID NOT disappoint. It was just as epic if not even more epic than the first book. The writing and pacing was absolutely amazing and I could not stop reading. It's been a while since a book has caught my attention to this level and I'm honestly going to die because I don't know when the next book is going to be released.
Diving more into the world, Camelot is a modern UK with cellphones, television, and a freaking amazing magic system. The writing in this novel just brought everything together. I finished Henge back in February of this year and I had no trouble getting back into the world. The whole thrill of the Luminaries and Morgan's desire to protect the Pendragons is just overwhelmingly amazing. (I have no other word to describe this book...)
The characters, oh my gods, I can't get enough of them. Morgan is such an amazing (there's that word again) protagonist and while she might be a little insane, she stays true to who she is even if that path may lead to dire consequences. While she is a bit hotheaded, her loyalty to what she believes in is unrivaled by any character. Merlin, my heart. I didn't like him that much in the first book, but this one brought him into a whole new spotlight. His talents as the Maven and his feelings for Morgan give me too many emotions to even talk. Of course, I have to mention Lancelot because (ahhh) more feels. Final character is Prince Arthur. He was such a brat in the first book, but he goes through so much character development and just grows up so much. My heart breaks for him, but he's going to be an amazing king.
All the plot twists in this novel are enough to give me a heart attack. While I can't reveal them for obvious reasons, just know that this book will take you on an amazingly epic journey that will leave in a state of shock by just how freaking amazing it it.
Read my reviews at:
http://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com/
Oh. My. God. This book is too freaking amazing.
**I received a copy from the author for an honest review. Everything is 100% my own opinion.**
Full Review:
I'm currently writing this instead of paying attention in class because I just finished this book and I can't get it out of my head. I really enjoyed Henge and I've been anticipating the second book for forever. This book DID NOT disappoint. It was just as epic if not even more epic than the first book. The writing and pacing was absolutely amazing and I could not stop reading. It's been a while since a book has caught my attention to this level and I'm honestly going to die because I don't know when the next book is going to be released.
Diving more into the world, Camelot is a modern UK with cellphones, television, and a freaking amazing magic system. The writing in this novel just brought everything together. I finished Henge back in February of this year and I had no trouble getting back into the world. The whole thrill of the Luminaries and Morgan's desire to protect the Pendragons is just overwhelmingly amazing. (I have no other word to describe this book...)
The characters, oh my gods, I can't get enough of them. Morgan is such an amazing (there's that word again) protagonist and while she might be a little insane, she stays true to who she is even if that path may lead to dire consequences. While she is a bit hotheaded, her loyalty to what she believes in is unrivaled by any character. Merlin, my heart. I didn't like him that much in the first book, but this one brought him into a whole new spotlight. His talents as the Maven and his feelings for Morgan give me too many emotions to even talk. Of course, I have to mention Lancelot because (ahhh) more feels. Final character is Prince Arthur. He was such a brat in the first book, but he goes through so much character development and just grows up so much. My heart breaks for him, but he's going to be an amazing king.
All the plot twists in this novel are enough to give me a heart attack. While I can't reveal them for obvious reasons, just know that this book will take you on an amazingly epic journey that will leave in a state of shock by just how freaking amazing it it.
Read my reviews at:
http://extreemeobsessed.blogspot.com/
November 27, 2015
What I liked: Sword was a fantastic, utterly thrilling continuation of the Le Fay series. I'm still reeling from the story. Just like Henge, Sword is well written, amazingly paced, and the storyline does not disappoint, plus the characters are fantastic. There were moments where I couldn't help but feel for Morgan and Merlin, especially at the end and definitely cried a little for them because of their plight. Morgan's hotheadedness always seems to make interesting events happen, but her unwavering loyalty as well a her firmness in her beliefs had me hoping for her in a situation that was so dire for her throughout the entire book. I can't risk saying to much, but the adventure to Excalibur with Prince Arthur was one that certainly revealed many things that I was not expecting to happen. Merlin himself was a character who, though I was wary of in the first book, was someone who managed to bring me to tears by the end because of his situation.
What I didn't like: I can't think of anything that stands out that I didn't like about this book. I would say the immense about of emotions that this book brought out in me, but I love that it moved me to tears.
Overall Review: Sword is a brilliant continuation of this series, setting the stage for what is undoubtedly going to be a better series that I imagined it would be when I first finished Henge. With an intricate plot that kept me glued to the pages the entire time, I can say that I am eagerly looking forward to the next book to see what's in store for these characters next!
Recommend?: I absolutely do! Even if you haven't started this series yet, I suggest that you do so you can read the amazingness that is Sword!
What I didn't like: I can't think of anything that stands out that I didn't like about this book. I would say the immense about of emotions that this book brought out in me, but I love that it moved me to tears.
Overall Review: Sword is a brilliant continuation of this series, setting the stage for what is undoubtedly going to be a better series that I imagined it would be when I first finished Henge. With an intricate plot that kept me glued to the pages the entire time, I can say that I am eagerly looking forward to the next book to see what's in store for these characters next!
Recommend?: I absolutely do! Even if you haven't started this series yet, I suggest that you do so you can read the amazingness that is Sword!
June 10, 2016
Just like the first book in the series I couldn't put it down! I'm going to have to say I loved it more than Henge, which was so captivating! Sword definitely has it all, all the way to the end - which, lucky for us, is to be continued!!
March 4, 2016
Rating: 3.75
March 27, 2016
Make it new
To take an old myth and spin it new and fresh. I enjoyed it very much. I can hardly wait for the next chapter.
To take an old myth and spin it new and fresh. I enjoyed it very much. I can hardly wait for the next chapter.
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