The Almost Queen

Grimm Academy #10

by Laura Greenwood

Betrayal, jealousy, and death have always been a part of my future.
I'm the almost Queen. Betrothed to one man, and in love with another. Though there's no doubt in my mind who I'll choose. Lancelot has my heart, even if it'll lead me down the path to the pyre.
No matter what it takes, I'll find a way to save us all from the prophecy which threatens to consume us.
-
The Almost Queen is part of the Grimm Academy series. It includes a sweet m/f romance.

Genres: Romance, Retellings, Fantasy, Fairy Tales, Arthurian, Young Adult

154 pages, ebook

Published August 27, 2020

About the author

Laura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.

Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)

You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.

Happy Reading!

Reviews

[Laura Greenwood]

Grimm Academy:
1. Tower Of Thorns: books2read.com/towerofthorns
2. Spindles And Spells: books2read.com/spindlesandspells
3. Pumpkins And Proms: books2read.com/pumpkinsandproms
4. Lilies of Loss: books2read.com/liliesofloss
5. Huntsmen And Hoods: books2read.com/huntsmenandhoods
6. Glints Of Gold: books2read.com/glintsofgold
7. Mirrors And Magic: books2read.com/mirrorsandmagic
8. Lamps and Lies: books2read.com/lampsandlies
9. Feathers Of Fate: books2read.com/feathersoffate
10. The Almost Queen: books2read.com/thealmostqueen
11. The Rightful King: books2read.com/therightfulking
12. Frosts And Fears: books2read.com/frostsandfears
13. Song Of Seas: books2read.com/songofseas
14. Roses Of Regret: books2read.com/rosesofregret
15. Princess Of Petals: books2read.com/princessofpetals
16. Princess Of Feathers: books2read.com/princessoffeathers
17. Princess Of Peas: books2read.com/princessofpeas
18. The Winter Ball: books2read.com/thewinterball
19. Dance Of Daggers: books2read.com/danceofdaggers
20. Coming soon!

- Teller Of Tales: https://books.authorlauragreenwood.co...

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

If there's one thing I always get from a Greenwood book it's a smile on my face. Especially the Grimm Academy series is just too cute and all those characters are so sweet and precious. I was very curious about this story, especially since it's published outside the normal Grimm Academy series and even more because Arthur is more of a legend than a fairytale, but this book had the same vibe as the other stories set at Grimm. And that's a good thing.

I really love the prophecy Greenwood came up with for Arthur and Gwen. It fits their story, it fits the legend we know about them and it fits them as characters. I also love how Greenwood portrayed the pressure on the shoulders of Gwen and Lancelot, who had all these strong and intense feelings for each other, but who couldn't act on it because that would start the prophecy, that ended with Gwen's death and a giant war between kingdoms.

The love between Lancelot and Gwen, just like the other love stories in this series, was incredibly cute and heart warming though. Even though we don't get to see the moment they fall for each other, since that happens way before we really meet them, it's easy to understand what they're feeling for each other and why it's so hard to fight those feelings. Which also means that the moment they can finally tell each other what they feel is huge smile moment number one.

I also really love how Greenwood managed to keep the triangle without the cheating. Although I don't hate a book when there's cheating, I don't think it fits in the Grimm world. The prophecy and the arranged marriage are a great way to keep the forbidden element to the lovestory without making Gwen a cheater. I also really loved Arthur in this story. It's quite easy to see why people love and like him and what makes him a good king. Let's hope he finds Excalibur!

[Ayşe · Rating 5 out of 5]

5*
A great Gwen and Arthur retelling.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I approached this with a great deal of trepidation. The Arthurian legends are near and dear to my heart and I couldn’t think of a way the author would be able to turn one of the most infamous love triangles into a happily ever after. I can safely say I am pleasantly impressed. This story takes the broad strokes of the original, the details that make it recognizable, and tips the whole thing over on its ear. If only the original could have been salvaged with this little bloodshed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.

[Berls · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

I really wanted to love The Almost Queen. I know/knew Laura when she was blogging - before she started publishing - and really like/d her. So I was excited to finally read one of her books. I think a a couple perfect coincidences conspired with a few elements to leave me underwhelmed.

(1) the cover - I am drawn to pretty covers like a moth to flame. And more often than not, they disappoint me. And still, I come, hoping that this one will be one of the few that I end up loving. This cover mislead me into expecting a story with more courtly intrigue and majesty. I found both lacking, though there were allusions.

(2) I recently started reading another Arthurian retelling and it is SO GOOD. Though they are not remotely the same - not in genre nor setting (though I found myself really uncertain of the setting of this book... was it historical? or were the characters living in a modern world but with some old world elements... reliving/rewriting mythical/historical moments? I was never quite sure) - I think I subconsciously compared the two.

(3) the plot didn't pull me in really. I feel like I was more compelled by my knowledge of what was supposed to happen to Gwen, Lancelot and Arthur than I was by what was happening. Maybe it was just a bit too easy?

That being said - it was a light, easy read. If you're looking for something sweet and simple, this is it. Maybe I was just in the wrong mood and wanted something a big more complex and challenging. I hope to try another book in the future by Laura and to love it!

[Jennine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the little folk the most amongst the tale of four childhood friends trying to beat their prophecies.
The next book looks to be more action packed after hearing of the rare development

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️

The Almost Queen is a cute short novel and retells the story of Lancelot and Guinevere.

Plot

Death, envy, and betrayal have always been in my future.
I am the nearly sovereign. In love with one man, betrothed to another. But I know without a doubt who I will select. My heart belongs to Lancelot, even if it will take me to the funeral pyre.
I'll do everything it takes to protect each and every one of us from the prophecy that threatens to engulf us.

The plot of the story is good. Basically, Guinevere has a profecy that talks about betrayal. She thinks she will betray Arthur, because of her love for Lancelot. Guinevere, Lancelot, Arthur and Dindrane try to stop the profecy.

Characters

The main characters of the novel are Lancelot, Guinevere, Arthur and Dindrane. For a short book, I think the characters were well developed. I really liked Lancelot's loyalty to Arthur and how caring and sweet Guinevere can be. Dindrane was a wonderful friend, she was always there for Guinevere and Arthur seems to be very intelligent and really care for his friends.

Writing

The writing is simple and easy to undertsand.

World-Building

I haven't read the other books in the series, but I like how the author explained the magic system and how Grimm Academy works. It was easy to understand and you can definitely read this book without reading the previous installments.

Romance

The romance between Lancelot and Guinevere was so cute. I love reading their moments together, they were really made for each other. I'm happy that at least in this story, they got the happy ending they deserve.

Final Thoughts

I think it's a very sweet read.

[Douglas Williamson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Betrothed to one, but in love with another. Sounds familiar? It should, but then perhaps it is time to change the tune.

This is book ten in this series which combines classic tales with an academy setting. Each book is written as a standalone, so it is not necessary to read them in order, although you will be missing a bit of the setting background.

The story is well written and easy to read, and it is fun to watch characters that are familiar tell entirely new stories. The setting and characters are nicely done and we get a bit more depth to the setting as the series progresses. This one is based on the Arthurian legend, which makes for a very interesting tale. Note that this is part one of a two part story, so there is more to come. Overall, this book is another entertaining addition to an excellent series.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.

[Skylar Keeton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Almost Queen is part of the Grimm Academy fantasy fairy tale romance series and is a standalone retelling of Guinevere and Lancelot. It includes a legendary heroine determined to save herself and a sweet m/f romance.
If you enjoy fairy tale retellings, fantasy academy settings, friendship, prophecies, strong heroines, and sweet romance, start the Grimm Academy series!
Note that this is part one of a two part story, so there is more to come.
This book was well written and easy to read, I really enjoyed it. This is just one book in an interconnected world that I definitely plan on reading.
I enjoyed reading a story we all know and love just written in a way that's brand new.
While reading this book I have come to realize I really enjoy fairytale retellings and reading different takes on the original story. I can't wait to read more by this author!!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prince Arthur/Lady Guinevere/Lancelot.
So we all know the tragic story of King Arthur and his Queen Guinevere with her betrayal of falling in love with Arthur’s Elite Knight Lancelot. Since all the Grimm Academy stories focus on those with prophesies, these three are no different. What if these three knew about their prophesy ahead of time and could change it? This Grimm Academy story allows Prince Arthur Pendragon and Lady Guinevere Olwen an opportunity to change their tragic fates. This is a duet with Prince Arthur’s full story in the next book, The Rightful King. Great lines. Feel good. And Gwen as an Almost Queen.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Idalia Helaena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I swear, the Grimm Academy series gets better and better with each book I read! This series has me in a chokehold at this point, and I'm really glad I discovered it!

Honestly, I’ve been curious about the dynamic between Arthur, Guinevere, and Lancelot since they were mentioned in passing in the previous books.

I actually really loved Laura Greenwood’s take on this particular tale, especially when it came to the fact that Arthur and Gwen have never had romantic feelings for each other.

Arthur being so supportive of Lancelot and Gwen’s relationship was something I definitely enjoyed about this retelling.

Speaking of Lancelot and Gwen, I thought their romance was super sweet and I was rooting for them the whole time. I can’t wait to find out what happens with Arthur in the next one!

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Almost Queen book 10:
Gwen and Lancelot’s story a retelling of an Arthurian legend.
I’m a big fan of Arthurian legends, literature and myths. I took a course in college solely dedicated to the topic and loved every minute. So not a big surprise to say I enjoyed this book quite a lot. Three people stuck in an uncomfortable situation due to birth status, parental meddling and prophecy. They are friends which makes things so much better as they work together to undo the inevitable. I liked the betrayal, such a small thing that could’ve been so terrible turned to good. And a hea that is so sweet. Great read!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TaniaRina · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Love is worth everything…’
…but is it really?
Is it worth betraying a friend or starting a war? Is the burn of young love worth burning on a flaming pyre?

This tale is also a lesson in keeping one’s word. In Orthodox Judaism, we add the words “bli neder” (without a vow) when we tell someone we may/might/will do something. It’s great way to set expectations and it prevents misunderstandings since that phrase is universally understood in our world.

Fave quote:
‘There's no one I'd have rather been stuck in a prophecy with.’


Arthur’s tale continues in ‘The Rightful King’.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Based on Arthurian Legend, The Almost Queen focuses on Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot. Reimagining the characters as childhood friends sent to Grimm Academy to face their prophecies, Ms. Greenwood sidesteps the traditional betrayal to give all the characters a believable and satisfying happy ending. Told in the alternating viewpoints of Gwen and Lancelot, we get the depth of these characters fillings for each other as well as their commitment to Arthur. This version of Gwen & Lance are given integrity and compassion as they face a situation not of their making.

I’ve long been fascinated with Arthurian legends, even taking an elective in college focusing on them. Having read many different versions of these characters, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how Ms. Greenwood was able to slot them into the traditional framework. I also enjoyed how she integrated other members of the Round Table into the academy. I would love to see a spin-off focusing on Galahad & Percival’s story.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Victoria Golby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great twist on Fairy tales & legends
These are a great retelling of legends (King Arthur/Guinevere/Lancelot/ Excalibur); all set in the Grimm Academy where characters go to learn how they can defeat their prophesy.

#10 - The Almost Queen: a retelling of the legend of Guinevere and Lancelot

This is the first of the “Fate of the Crown” duology, taking on the Arthurian legends rather than fairy tales.

It's followed by #11 - The Rightful King: a retelling of the legend of King Arthur

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sherryle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lancelot, Gwen, Arthur & Dindrane are friends at the academy. Gwen finally tells Arthur she doesn't love him but Lancelot. Lancelot makes sure Gwen is ok cus she thinks she has made things worse. As the story progresses Lancelot & Gwen can't mistake the love they have for each other. I feel something will happen to the friends & everything will go wrong. Will things go wrong or straighten out & everything goes back to normal. I enjoyed reading this story & am looking forward to the next one.

[Sentinelle23 · Rating 3 out of 5]

👑🐎 Sweet Romance

Six years earlier, Arthur had set off in pursuit of a little fairy, followed by Gwen and Lancelot.

The three friends were having a good time.
Within two years, they would all go to the Grimm Academy...

-------------------

Against the background of a romantic friendship, a trio of friends evolves over time into a duo, when they find themselves educated at the Grimm Academy.

A pretty and sweet romance on the theme of a Grimm's fairy tale.

To discover.

[Buttercup1201 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this version of Camelot. It is a bit different from the common one. I enjoyed the fact that they are younger and it has a happy ending.

Guinevere, Arthur and Lancelot have grown up together. Gwen’s prophecy is tragic and she is trying to stop it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenn H · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet fairy tale of Gwen & Lancelot. Gwen & Arthur are betrothed and are to be wed after they are finished at Grimm’s academy. However the heart want’s what the heart wants and with Arthur’s blessing these two share their not so secret feelings. But did that set off Gwen’s prophecy of betrayal?.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arthur and Gwen have been betrothed since birth. Their problem is they love each other as friends, not as husband and wife. Lancelot and Gwen love each other but aren't inclined to say because of a prophecy. This quick read is very romantic, ending in a HEA. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arthur and Gwendolyn.
.
A betrothal, a betrayal, and a prophecy. An exciting new version of the part prophecy played in the future of Camelot.

This story has romance and drama blended into a good plot. I received a free copy but my review is honest and voluntary.

[Claire Trickett · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great spin on the traditional King Arthur fairytale! I couldn't put it down and highly recommend reading this series!

I received a complimentary copy of the book and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.

[Crystalclearwpg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of the King Arthur story but don't know too much about Guinevere. I believe this did give me a bit of a better insight into their story and this retell twist was probably a better tale. I was completely engrossed in reading it and totally enjoyed it. Watching them come to their own and finding their true loves was pleasant. I would love to see more of these 4 characters for sure.

[Linda (ellsky) Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming retelling of Lancelot and Guinevere's love story. I enjoyed how this one didn't focus on jealousy from Arthur, but instead had a fun twist on what Gwen's prophecy actually related to.

[Shalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy fairytale retellings and reading different takes on the original story. I can't wait to read more by this author!!

[Teri Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a sweet high school romance based on King Arthur! I’ll be able to put it in my classroom library for my middle schoolers. The girls love to read romance and it’s super hard to find something appropriate for them!

[Goddess of Chaos · Rating 4 out of 5]

"We're the keepers of our own happiness."

This is a take on the story of King Arthur, Lancelot, and Guinevere aka Gwen. Here they are students at Grimm Academy, not just best friends, but aware that Arthur and Gwen share a prophecy as well as being betrothed.

Aspects are familiar from legends of old, aspects left me cheering as they took turns towards reality, doing the things good and true friends do, even as the story continued to find interesting twists and turns to take.

The Authors Note mentions this is a duology with the next book (The Rightful King) which is awesome, since I came out if this ready for Arthur's turn center stage, and that was before the epilogue.

I was gifted with a copy of The Almost Queen and chose to share my thoughts.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Almost Queen introduces readers to a reimagining of the world of King Arthur and Guinevere when they are teenagers. They are engaged to each other because their families decided it was a good idea but they aren't in love. In fact, to complicate things, they are in love with other people. And if that isn't enough, they have a terrible curse hanging over their heads.

Gwen is a pretty good character. She is perfectly kind, perfectly smart, perfectly dedicated, perfectly coifed. In short, she is perfect. While all of that is true, the author manages to give Gwen just enough humanity to make readers root for her to win in the end. Arthur is ok. He's destined to be king and he's going to be great at it but he's kind of a dull character. The one thing he has going for him is that he wants Gwen to be happy so he makes all of the right moves to accomplish that. Lancelot is a pretty good character. He won't make any move that might hurt Arthur and he is totally dedicated to his role as Arthur's assigned knight. The author does a pretty good job of explaining how Gwen, Lancelot, and Arthur are a trio and how their roles will work in the culture.

I thought the big mystery was a little silly. After all of the build-up to the curse, it was a bit of a letdown. (Quick aside, I have read the second book in the duology and even the characters comment on how simple the solution was so it's not just me.). I was disappointed by Arthur not having more something. The whole time I was thinking "come on, he's the Arthur of legends". I also wanted more information about the school but I figure that will be part of the follow-up series that comes after this duology.

This book is set in a mythical school for future kings and queens. There is actual magic in this world. .
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle Dohring · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story about King Arthur Pendragon, Guinevere Olwen, and Sir Lancelot. This is a refreshing new take on an often told old legend. The three of them are part of a prophecy that was foretold to them many years ago. Gwen and Lancelot must not fall in love or it will bring death and war to their kingdom. The story takes place at the Grimm Academy. The three friends are sent here because of the prophecy and to learn their future roles. Gwen has a friend named Dindrane at the Academy who tries to help her stop the prophecy. This story is told in Gwen and Lancelot’s perspective. While growing up Lancelot and Gwen have been fighting their feelings for each other to prevent the prophecy from becoming true. They know it will not end well. The last thing Lancelot and Gwen want to do is betray Arthur and have their kingdom go to war. Can they risk everything for love? Will they betray Arthur? What will happen to Arthur? This coming of age love story is sweet and you can’t help but root for Lancelot and Gwen to overcome all the odds. This is a well written and entertaining story. I can’t wait to read the next book that is in Arthur’s perspective. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another of the twisted tales we have grown up with, the familiar story reimagined in a whole new way so the reader feels the familiarity of the old and a fresh understanding of the new. And this author is one of the most clever at twisting these tales and making them quite often better than the original.

This story revolves around the friendship of King Arthur, Guinevere, and Lancelot. They know the prophecies of their fates and want to try to break out of that predicted future. Lancelot and Guinevere are in love with each other. Arthur is merely Gwen’s friend. Unfortunately, their families have arranged for a marriage that will need to be stopped. Can the prophecy be changed or broken? Is there hope for a HEA?

This was such a good rendition of the King Arthur story, completely twisted into something exciting and new. The story line was fun and the characters were likable. This author’s skill at re-working a well-known tale into something more magical than it had been before still impresses me! Grab your copy and find out if Gwen and Lancelot can find their future together!