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Queenmaker #1
Legend
A maid who will become legend...Sixteen-year-old Alena longs for a world where peasants, servants, and nobles are all equal. Truly, that will never be possible until the day when she removes a sword from a stone and might have the chance to become queen... if she can rally those same peasants, servants, and nobles behind her.Legend is a King Arthur retelling with Arthur as Alena, a maid who can possibly become so much more than she ever dreamed possible. Perfect for fans of The Mists of Avalon, The Selection, and Red Queen.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2018
10 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Zoltack
340 books1,150 followersNicole Zoltack is a USA Today bestselling author who loves to write romances. Of course. She did marry her first kiss, after all!
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now! http://www.subscribepage.com/m0k3l8
When she’s not writing about knights, superheroes, or witches, she enjoys spending time with her loving husband, three energetic young boys, and precious baby girl. She enjoys riding horses (pretending they’re unicorns, of course!) and going to the PA Renaissance Faire dressed in garb. She’ll also read anything she can get her hands on. Her current favorite TV shows are The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.
Everyone who signs up for her newsletter receives a free book, so sign up now! http://www.subscribepage.com/m0k3l8
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 13, 2020
What if King Arthur had been born a girl instead of a boy? Legend explores that very story.
Alena grew up as a maid in the palace, constantly on the brink of expulsion for refusing to submit to the authority and unwanted advances of knights and noblemen. Unlike anyone else she knew, she thought that class and caste should not matter and all should be treated equally. She also continually asserted, to the dismay of the duke and others who employed her, that while another might own her services, no one owned her body. It's a great rallying cry. Things began to change quickly when she overheard a plot to assassinate the duke and found a sword in an anvil and quickly grabbed it for the knight she was assisting in a tournament. As soon as Alena became the center of attention, she knew she didn't want it. Could she become queen? Should she become queen?
Legend could have easily parodied The Sword in the Stone, but Nicole's writing made it believable. There were almost too many anomalies in Alena's life. She didn't know who her parents were but had been sent to the castle instead of abandoned. She taught herself to read. She stood up to anyone who treated her wrongly, regardless of their social standing or the number of times she had already been rebuked for doing so. And those are only a few of the unusual characteristics of Alena. The idea of a woman becoming queen, and a maid at that, was also ridiculous and horrifying to so many people even after they watched her pull the sword from the stone on several more occasions. This wouldn't be a neatly resolved story. And it's definitely not a joke.
I'm curious to see how Alena grows into her role and eventually accepts the mantle that legend tells us she must. Sarah Colton narrated all of the voices perfectly. I could listen to her all day (and almost did, since I finished the book in less than a day). I received a free audiobook through StoryOrigin and have reviewed it gladly.
Alena grew up as a maid in the palace, constantly on the brink of expulsion for refusing to submit to the authority and unwanted advances of knights and noblemen. Unlike anyone else she knew, she thought that class and caste should not matter and all should be treated equally. She also continually asserted, to the dismay of the duke and others who employed her, that while another might own her services, no one owned her body. It's a great rallying cry. Things began to change quickly when she overheard a plot to assassinate the duke and found a sword in an anvil and quickly grabbed it for the knight she was assisting in a tournament. As soon as Alena became the center of attention, she knew she didn't want it. Could she become queen? Should she become queen?
Legend could have easily parodied The Sword in the Stone, but Nicole's writing made it believable. There were almost too many anomalies in Alena's life. She didn't know who her parents were but had been sent to the castle instead of abandoned. She taught herself to read. She stood up to anyone who treated her wrongly, regardless of their social standing or the number of times she had already been rebuked for doing so. And those are only a few of the unusual characteristics of Alena. The idea of a woman becoming queen, and a maid at that, was also ridiculous and horrifying to so many people even after they watched her pull the sword from the stone on several more occasions. This wouldn't be a neatly resolved story. And it's definitely not a joke.
I'm curious to see how Alena grows into her role and eventually accepts the mantle that legend tells us she must. Sarah Colton narrated all of the voices perfectly. I could listen to her all day (and almost did, since I finished the book in less than a day). I received a free audiobook through StoryOrigin and have reviewed it gladly.
January 4, 2019
I definitely think this series has potential and really enjoyed most of the story and this different take on the Arturian legend.
February 4, 2020
Audiobook review.
I expected to like this more than I did. I receive the author’s newsletter and the description of this book sounded really good. The problem was that the whole story revolves around angst. Alena is not happy as a maid, and it was hard to listen to the danger she was in from squires, pages and lords. Then she is given the chance to be queen and the emotional turmoil and angst ratchet up another notch. I can get behind her desire for peace, but I don’t think she did herself any favors by choosing the path that she did. This is medieval Britain for heavens sake. Death and battle are inevitable.
The narrator did a good job, although the angst may have been more noticeable because it was an audiobook.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to listen to Legend: The Queenmaker Series.
I expected to like this more than I did. I receive the author’s newsletter and the description of this book sounded really good. The problem was that the whole story revolves around angst. Alena is not happy as a maid, and it was hard to listen to the danger she was in from squires, pages and lords. Then she is given the chance to be queen and the emotional turmoil and angst ratchet up another notch. I can get behind her desire for peace, but I don’t think she did herself any favors by choosing the path that she did. This is medieval Britain for heavens sake. Death and battle are inevitable.
The narrator did a good job, although the angst may have been more noticeable because it was an audiobook.
Thanks to the author for the opportunity to listen to Legend: The Queenmaker Series.
February 8, 2020
I actually listen to this story on audible and it was very enjoyable. I love the storyline which is a twist on The Sword in the Stone meshed with a bit of rags to riches vibe. Alena goes from lonely maid with hopes of a future where women and peasants are equal to men and nobles. But when happenstance or possibly a planned magical event thrusts her into a position she could have the power to make her hopes reality, she starts to doubt herself. Can a lonely maid with an unknown lineage with hopes of a peaceful England united the people to protect their land from invaders or will she crumble under the weight of responsibility set before her? I definitely can't wait to see what happens in book two!
February 11, 2020
Alena is not satisfied with her life and refuses to give herself wholly to being just a maid. When she accidentally pulls a magic sword from a stone, her whole life changes and she discovers that there is a lot more to her story than she ever knew.
While she doesn't agree with the way things are and continues to fight back for her own rights, she also seems to scorn anyone else who has aspirations for a better life. There are quite a lot of contradictions in the book and I found the olden days language seemed a bit forced.
I really like the idea for the story with the combination of Robin Hood and Sword in the Stone. I hope there will be more about Alena's friend Liam in future books.
In terms of the narration, I felt like the accents were all over the place.
While she doesn't agree with the way things are and continues to fight back for her own rights, she also seems to scorn anyone else who has aspirations for a better life. There are quite a lot of contradictions in the book and I found the olden days language seemed a bit forced.
I really like the idea for the story with the combination of Robin Hood and Sword in the Stone. I hope there will be more about Alena's friend Liam in future books.
In terms of the narration, I felt like the accents were all over the place.
February 13, 2020
What if the legendary Arthur of Briton had been a girl?
This medieval sword and sorcery adventure follows the life of a young foundling, raised (more or less) by a nobleman who finds her on his doorstep.She spends her life working as a maid in the castle, until one day, when a series of circumstances forces her to become much more.
Legend is a much grittier and less chivalrous treatment of medieval England than your run of the mill fairy tale, but the characters are interesting, and for the most part likable and the plot is engaging and fun to read even if it borrows heavily from the Arthurian sword in the stone legends.
This story was a pleasure to read.
This medieval sword and sorcery adventure follows the life of a young foundling, raised (more or less) by a nobleman who finds her on his doorstep.She spends her life working as a maid in the castle, until one day, when a series of circumstances forces her to become much more.
Legend is a much grittier and less chivalrous treatment of medieval England than your run of the mill fairy tale, but the characters are interesting, and for the most part likable and the plot is engaging and fun to read even if it borrows heavily from the Arthurian sword in the stone legends.
This story was a pleasure to read.
July 14, 2020
When the story began, I was surprised at the British accent of the narrator, but soon realized that it was because of it being played out in England.
The story starts off with a maid in the castle and follows her role that she soon discovers who she is.
Without giving away any spoilers in the review, the story has a very Arthurian vibe to it.
The different voices and the accents of the various characters actually make for a really interesting listen, much more entertaining than it would have been, had I read the book.
The audio hooked me, and now I want to listen to the rest of the series as soon as possible.
The story starts off with a maid in the castle and follows her role that she soon discovers who she is.
Without giving away any spoilers in the review, the story has a very Arthurian vibe to it.
The different voices and the accents of the various characters actually make for a really interesting listen, much more entertaining than it would have been, had I read the book.
The audio hooked me, and now I want to listen to the rest of the series as soon as possible.
December 30, 2018
Queen of the Hearts!
I really enjoyed reading this book! It’s based on a King Arther twist and is a well written YA book. The main character, Alena, is fearless, mouthy, and full of heart. She is a maid turned future queen and doesn’t know how to take the new future. The kingdom is in an upheaval over the news of a Queen not a King, and she only wants unity through peace. She is becoming confident in her new role but will she be able to change the Lords to her side? I can’t wait to read the next book in this series to find out more!
I really enjoyed reading this book! It’s based on a King Arther twist and is a well written YA book. The main character, Alena, is fearless, mouthy, and full of heart. She is a maid turned future queen and doesn’t know how to take the new future. The kingdom is in an upheaval over the news of a Queen not a King, and she only wants unity through peace. She is becoming confident in her new role but will she be able to change the Lords to her side? I can’t wait to read the next book in this series to find out more!
July 15, 2020
Alena is a maid in a Duke's household. She is full of herself believing that all people should be treated the same. This does not endear her to the other servants in the household. Knights are fighting in a tournament and she is tasked with tending to one of the contestants. He has need of a sword and Alena rushes to retrieve one lest he go into the combat less one. She sees the sword in the stone (knowing nothing of its value) pulls it out. The rest of the story revolves around Alena and her people. I was given a free copy of this book at my request and this is my honest review.
November 15, 2019
4.5 stars
I wish that more sites would allow half points. I give this 4.5 stars.
Alena is wonderful, I really liked her. A great beginning to a promising series. A King Arthur retelling, but an original one! I think the story was very suited for young adults. And not-so-young adults as well ;)
An enjoyable tale that I really liked. Can’t wait to get started on the sequel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I wish that more sites would allow half points. I give this 4.5 stars.
Alena is wonderful, I really liked her. A great beginning to a promising series. A King Arthur retelling, but an original one! I think the story was very suited for young adults. And not-so-young adults as well ;)
An enjoyable tale that I really liked. Can’t wait to get started on the sequel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2020
Legend by Nicole Zoltack is a retelling of King Arthur that I listened to on audio narrated by Sarah L. Colton.
This is the first book of Nicole’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this retelling of King Arthur. I can’t wait for the next book in the series Luminary to be released on audible.
Sarah did an amazing job on the narration. I absolutely love her voice and thought it was perfect for Alena.
StoryOriginAppReviewer
This is the first book of Nicole’s that I have read and it definitely won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this retelling of King Arthur. I can’t wait for the next book in the series Luminary to be released on audible.
Sarah did an amazing job on the narration. I absolutely love her voice and thought it was perfect for Alena.
StoryOriginAppReviewer
February 26, 2020
Audio book review
If you like fair tales then this story is for you. It will grab you till the end. It’s a retelling of a favourite, King Arthur but instead of a King it’s the retailing of the legand but from Alena point of view . Alena is missable as a maid , she’s mistreated by the lords , and squires until she finds the strength to she finds her worth .
Sarah Colton performance was very strong, she did the tones great. Her voice is smooth and strong
If you like fair tales then this story is for you. It will grab you till the end. It’s a retelling of a favourite, King Arthur but instead of a King it’s the retailing of the legand but from Alena point of view . Alena is missable as a maid , she’s mistreated by the lords , and squires until she finds the strength to she finds her worth .
Sarah Colton performance was very strong, she did the tones great. Her voice is smooth and strong
July 13, 2020
Legend (Queenmaker #1), my fourth read from author Nicole Zoltack and the first book of the Queenmaker series, caught my attention in the opening pages & I never put it down until completed. I've read everything I could get my hands on in Arthurian Legend since I was a youth & this holds up well. I look forward to reading more in this series & from this author. "I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
November 15, 2018
Legend by Nicole Zoltack this is a great story to read. This is a great story with really strong characters and a great story. This is the first time I ever read anything by this author and I really enjoyed it very much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2019
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I have been reading a lot of things in my life about King Arthur. I was so fascinated when I say this description that it was a girl who would be in the role of Arthur. I like Alena she is good well-developed character and she wants a kingdom through peace. It was a good start I will have to get to the rest.
July 21, 2020
This was an interesting view on the Arthurian legend. What would have happened if the chosen was a female, and a maid at that? The prospect from the maid's eyes is quite eye opening. Loved the way the main character thought and never buckled under the thought of being Queen. ready for the next book.
November 15, 2018
Queen of the round table
Awesome read fast paced and lots of fun with plenty of twists and turns. Some day Alena will be queen and who will her first female knight be can't wait to find out love the characters and story
Awesome read fast paced and lots of fun with plenty of twists and turns. Some day Alena will be queen and who will her first female knight be can't wait to find out love the characters and story
November 19, 2018
She had always wanted everyone to be equal but it is not like that as she is a maid but that all changes when she takes a sword out of a stone. This is a twist on king Arthur. Great retelling
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2020
It is a feminine version of the legend of king Arthur. It has great potential yet I took a star away because it was a cliffhanger. I like my stories stand alone. I got this book from storyorigins and this is my voluntary and honest review.
May 28, 2020
🎧Audiobook Review🎧
King Arthur retelling.
I love this idea. The concept of a female Arthur.
I could see the similarities with this book and The Sword in the Stone and loved it.
Can’t wait to dig into book 2 and 3! 😍
#audiobookobsession
King Arthur retelling.
I love this idea. The concept of a female Arthur.
I could see the similarities with this book and The Sword in the Stone and loved it.
Can’t wait to dig into book 2 and 3! 😍
#audiobookobsession
August 6, 2021
I love different takes on the Arthur story and this is a good one. Making Arthur a girl, and a rebellious one who never fit in at that, was a great change and let's the author do all sorts of interesting things to the story.
February 20, 2020
That was good!!!! It's a Great different take on the sword in the stone and I loved it!!🥰🤩🤯 well written and the characters where unique! I'm excited for book 2 I also got this in audio!!!🥰🤩🥰
April 13, 2020
*I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
In case you guys haven't noticed I've been on a fairytale retellings binge.
Legend is the story of Arthur pulling the sword from the stone and becoming King....wait no.
Legend is the story of a young maid, Alena, who knows nothing but servitude and abuse accidentally becoming Queen. No one accepts a girl, let alone a maid as ruler of all of Camelot but the witch who put the sword in the stone insists Alena is the rightful Queen.
Alena doesn't understand why she can't accept her role in life as a thing not a person with free will and it gets her in trouble. The other maids don't like her and her superiors go out of their way to make her life miserable. She sees becoming Queen as a huge mistake at first but eventually vows to treat everyone equally and takes on the role.
Alena gets really angsty and more and more distressed as the book continues. However, this is forgivable because she is only a 16-year-old girl. Angst is to be expected. She isn't that strong of a lady beyond the innate magic in her but hopefully, in the sequels, she will grow in both her physical and mental strength.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a book fighting classism from a female perspective. This tells the dirty truth of what happened in the courts behind the veils of knightly "chivalry".
In case you guys haven't noticed I've been on a fairytale retellings binge.
Legend is the story of Arthur pulling the sword from the stone and becoming King....wait no.
Legend is the story of a young maid, Alena, who knows nothing but servitude and abuse accidentally becoming Queen. No one accepts a girl, let alone a maid as ruler of all of Camelot but the witch who put the sword in the stone insists Alena is the rightful Queen.
Alena doesn't understand why she can't accept her role in life as a thing not a person with free will and it gets her in trouble. The other maids don't like her and her superiors go out of their way to make her life miserable. She sees becoming Queen as a huge mistake at first but eventually vows to treat everyone equally and takes on the role.
Alena gets really angsty and more and more distressed as the book continues. However, this is forgivable because she is only a 16-year-old girl. Angst is to be expected. She isn't that strong of a lady beyond the innate magic in her but hopefully, in the sequels, she will grow in both her physical and mental strength.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a book fighting classism from a female perspective. This tells the dirty truth of what happened in the courts behind the veils of knightly "chivalry".
July 25, 2020
retelling of king arthur except the lead is a female, Alena is a maid that wants more in life but was not ready for what she gets.
October 4, 2025
A maid pulls the sword from the stone but will people really rally around her instead of a man. A good introduction to the world and characters, need more action
April 18, 2020
This was an excellent retelling of King Arthur as a female lead where she is a maid living in a castle, who doesn't believe society should be forced into roles simply by what family they are born to. Unlike most of the other maids, she has a mind of her own, and is always trying to fight against the stereotypical "roles" everyone is supposed to play. As it turns out, she is destined for greatness, and is has the opportunity to change the way society view everything, if she can only find the strength within herself.
I really enjoyed this book and the audio book narration was well done!
I really enjoyed this book and the audio book narration was well done!
October 15, 2019
This revamped age old fairytale has lots going on. Good strong characters with great personalities. Fantastic performance from Sarah.
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
#audiobookobsessionreviewer
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews