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Guinevere #3
The Sword
Merlin’s sword in the stone has stood for three years in Dark Age Viroconium. Can Gwen get her husband there to draw it and set him on the road to becoming the king of legend?
Gwen, a girl from the twenty-first century, was kidnapped back in time to become King Arthur’s Queen Guinevere in book one, The Dragon Ring. In book two, The Bear’s Heart, she presented Arthur with his heir. But a dark cloud hangs over her son’s birth, and she can’t be sure Arthur believes the baby is his, nor even if he still loves her.
With a head full of the Arthurian legends told by her father, Gwen knows both too much and too little. She’s a girl from her husband’s future keeping all she knows a secret – out of fear some of it could be true.
However, she also fears that if it isn’t, revealing her suspicions could be the one thing that might make everything she’s afraid of happen. And she loves Arthur too much to let him die at Camlann.
The Sword takes Gwen from her hilltop home of Din Cadan. For love, she follows her husband north to the old Roman Wall and the town of Vindolanda, then beyond the Wall into dangerous enemy territory. She has to leave behind the quiet librarian she once was and discover her inner warrior queen, as she sees the battles her husband is famous for unfold before her eyes.
And at Viroconium, the sword is waiting for the only man who can draw it from the stone.
Gwen, a girl from the twenty-first century, was kidnapped back in time to become King Arthur’s Queen Guinevere in book one, The Dragon Ring. In book two, The Bear’s Heart, she presented Arthur with his heir. But a dark cloud hangs over her son’s birth, and she can’t be sure Arthur believes the baby is his, nor even if he still loves her.
With a head full of the Arthurian legends told by her father, Gwen knows both too much and too little. She’s a girl from her husband’s future keeping all she knows a secret – out of fear some of it could be true.
However, she also fears that if it isn’t, revealing her suspicions could be the one thing that might make everything she’s afraid of happen. And she loves Arthur too much to let him die at Camlann.
The Sword takes Gwen from her hilltop home of Din Cadan. For love, she follows her husband north to the old Roman Wall and the town of Vindolanda, then beyond the Wall into dangerous enemy territory. She has to leave behind the quiet librarian she once was and discover her inner warrior queen, as she sees the battles her husband is famous for unfold before her eyes.
And at Viroconium, the sword is waiting for the only man who can draw it from the stone.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2022
17 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Fil Reid
25 books64 followersAWARD-WINNING author, Fil Reid's first novel won a GOLD medal at the Readers' Favorites Awards in 2022.
Fil lives in Cornwall with her extremely supportive husband and where she's only minutes from the sea. She has a rescue dog from Romania called Bella.
She writes historical fiction and has a six book time travel series, GUINEVERE, out in which the heroine is a 21st-century girl kidnapped back to the Dark Ages to become King Arthur's Queen Guinevere. Lots of fun plot twists mixed in with some of the well-known and also the lesser known legends.
Her poor husband mostly sees the back of her head as she sits at the computer writing.
When she's not writing (which she does pretty much all of the time) she likes to walk the dog, visit sites of historical interest (preferably those connected to her writing), read, and sew.
She has Asperger's Syndrome, but she sees that as a plus as it helps her to be very focused on what she does.
Fil lives in Cornwall with her extremely supportive husband and where she's only minutes from the sea. She has a rescue dog from Romania called Bella.
She writes historical fiction and has a six book time travel series, GUINEVERE, out in which the heroine is a 21st-century girl kidnapped back to the Dark Ages to become King Arthur's Queen Guinevere. Lots of fun plot twists mixed in with some of the well-known and also the lesser known legends.
Her poor husband mostly sees the back of her head as she sits at the computer writing.
When she's not writing (which she does pretty much all of the time) she likes to walk the dog, visit sites of historical interest (preferably those connected to her writing), read, and sew.
She has Asperger's Syndrome, but she sees that as a plus as it helps her to be very focused on what she does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 4, 2022
“The Sword” is a love story that artfully blends imaginative archeology, captivating ancient history, and the tenderness that defines humanity through the ages.
Read full review in the 2022 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 September issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 29, 2022
I received an advanced release copy of the book which will be available for purchase on Amazon in late May.
This third book in the trilogy moves quickly into high drama with childbirth and battles and character conflicts, in addition to the ongoing romance with the handsome Arthur. Gwen manages to finagle her way into Arthur’s campaigns and adventures. But not as a passive observer, as she also jumps into the action, even when she’s left behind to defend the home front from the dangerous northern tribes. The rich sensory details pull the reader into the daily life of Medieval Britain. And the tension continues with hardly a break, for a good, satisfying read.
Highly recommended! I look forward to the fourth book soon!
This third book in the trilogy moves quickly into high drama with childbirth and battles and character conflicts, in addition to the ongoing romance with the handsome Arthur. Gwen manages to finagle her way into Arthur’s campaigns and adventures. But not as a passive observer, as she also jumps into the action, even when she’s left behind to defend the home front from the dangerous northern tribes. The rich sensory details pull the reader into the daily life of Medieval Britain. And the tension continues with hardly a break, for a good, satisfying read.
Highly recommended! I look forward to the fourth book soon!
May 28, 2022
It was great to see the characters continue to develop, and the conflict continue to deepen in this 3rd installment. It's satisfying to follow Gwen through her journey of becoming a wife, mother, and queen. As before, the descriptions and immersion into a different time period do not disappoint! If you enjoyed the first two installments, you'll definitely need to read this one. I received a pre-release copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 2, 2022
In Fil Reid’s third book of the Guinevere series, The Sword, Gwen uses all her cunning and ingenuity to remain at Arthur’s side, despite having a young baby to care for. Once again, the reader is provided with a first-hand view of Arthur’s battles and interactions from a female perspective. Gwen, however, is no simpering maiden cowering on the sidelines. She has her own sword and is prepared to engage Arthur’s enemies, if needed.
However, there is a lot more going on than the inevitable warfare against Saxon and Pict invaders. There are a number of spine-tingling confrontations with those who are much closer to Arthur’s court.
Yet again, Fil Reid weaves intrigue and tension into her story by her creative, yet realistic interpretations of Arthurian legends. While Arthur’s sister, Morgana, works on her own evil agenda, their bullying brother, Cadwy, attempts to defeat Arthur and take for himself the title of High King. In an unexpected twist, even the seemingly untouchable Merlin finds himself in dire straits.
Fans of Arthurian lore will appreciate Reid’s clever use of the various legends to build a realistic world for her time-slipped heroine, Queen Guinevere. For those who enjoy the overlap of geography and history, even the place names and their modern-day equivalents will capture the imagination. I love how Fil Reid places historical figures in believable scenarios to really bring fifth century Britain to life. And despite the characters’ doubts, jealousies and the interference of others, romance fans will appreciate the epic scale of Arthur and Guinevere’s love.
I highly recommend the Guinevere series to anyone who enjoys action, adventure, romance, realism and a dash of magic. Fil Reid creates grand tales that effortlessly cross the boundaries of ‘genre’.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and this review is a frank evaluation of its merits.
However, there is a lot more going on than the inevitable warfare against Saxon and Pict invaders. There are a number of spine-tingling confrontations with those who are much closer to Arthur’s court.
Yet again, Fil Reid weaves intrigue and tension into her story by her creative, yet realistic interpretations of Arthurian legends. While Arthur’s sister, Morgana, works on her own evil agenda, their bullying brother, Cadwy, attempts to defeat Arthur and take for himself the title of High King. In an unexpected twist, even the seemingly untouchable Merlin finds himself in dire straits.
Fans of Arthurian lore will appreciate Reid’s clever use of the various legends to build a realistic world for her time-slipped heroine, Queen Guinevere. For those who enjoy the overlap of geography and history, even the place names and their modern-day equivalents will capture the imagination. I love how Fil Reid places historical figures in believable scenarios to really bring fifth century Britain to life. And despite the characters’ doubts, jealousies and the interference of others, romance fans will appreciate the epic scale of Arthur and Guinevere’s love.
I highly recommend the Guinevere series to anyone who enjoys action, adventure, romance, realism and a dash of magic. Fil Reid creates grand tales that effortlessly cross the boundaries of ‘genre’.
I received an advance review copy of this book, and this review is a frank evaluation of its merits.
May 31, 2022
The third in Fil Reid’s Arthurian series. Gwen has traveled back in time to become the wife of King Arthur. She is familiar with the Arthurian legends and worries over which of them will become true, and when, and whether she can alter history. The novel opens a few days after Melwas’ death at the end of book II. Gwen and Arthur are not communicating, but are eventually reconciled. Gwen now has an infant son. Arthur is called away because of trouble in the North. The longest section covers military action around Hadrian’s Wall and what is now Scotland, and the final section a power struggle with other members of the extended ruling families.
The book contains detailed descriptions of a dark-age Britain, clearly well researched, and giving a vivid impression of life at the time. While advertised as a historical romance, this is more ‘historic’ than ‘romance’ though Arthur and Gwen’s marital relations in some well-written scenes are not left entirely to the readers’ imagination… Gwen’s thoughts and feelings are well depicted, as are the various characters. The battles are well-described and exciting, and one does not need to be a historic warfare buff to read these sections.
This is a page-turning read and a worthy addition to the canon of Arthurian fiction.
I received an advance copy of this book.
The book contains detailed descriptions of a dark-age Britain, clearly well researched, and giving a vivid impression of life at the time. While advertised as a historical romance, this is more ‘historic’ than ‘romance’ though Arthur and Gwen’s marital relations in some well-written scenes are not left entirely to the readers’ imagination… Gwen’s thoughts and feelings are well depicted, as are the various characters. The battles are well-described and exciting, and one does not need to be a historic warfare buff to read these sections.
This is a page-turning read and a worthy addition to the canon of Arthurian fiction.
I received an advance copy of this book.
May 31, 2022
(Review of an ARC)
A great third instalment in the series. Like the previous books I love how well-researched it is and how it doesn't gloss over how horrible medieval life could be. I love the running joke of Gwen explaining her modern knowledge by saying it comes from Gaul, and the end where Arthur pulls the sword out of the stone is one of my favourite scenes in the whole series so far!
A great third instalment in the series. Like the previous books I love how well-researched it is and how it doesn't gloss over how horrible medieval life could be. I love the running joke of Gwen explaining her modern knowledge by saying it comes from Gaul, and the end where Arthur pulls the sword out of the stone is one of my favourite scenes in the whole series so far!
May 13, 2022
I received a pre-release copy of the book. This review honestly expresses my thoughts after having read it.
Gwen’s passion for Arthur continues to drive her. Drive her to distraction sometimes—he is the king and army commander so he has plenty to do and travels with his army frequently. When he is around he is handsome, manly, and loves her in all ways.
Unhappy to be left home alone to worry that Arthur will be injured (or seduced by some princess), Gwen goes on campaign with Arthur and his army to northern England and into Scotland. There are battles and sieges and Arthur comes close to death even as Gwen watches from the battlements. When they finally return home Gwen has to confront her evil witch sister in law—a woman who lusts for power. It’s a grind but Gwen’s and Arthur’s love gives them both strength.
Again, as in the previous books, setting is a major part of the story. Details and descriptions immerse the reader in the primitive and half ruined land that was Britain in the Dark Ages. Places, people, and characters are vivid and memorable.
I recommend this third book in the Guinevere series highly.
Quincy Bragg
Author of “Prescient” and “the ant farm”.
Gwen’s passion for Arthur continues to drive her. Drive her to distraction sometimes—he is the king and army commander so he has plenty to do and travels with his army frequently. When he is around he is handsome, manly, and loves her in all ways.
Unhappy to be left home alone to worry that Arthur will be injured (or seduced by some princess), Gwen goes on campaign with Arthur and his army to northern England and into Scotland. There are battles and sieges and Arthur comes close to death even as Gwen watches from the battlements. When they finally return home Gwen has to confront her evil witch sister in law—a woman who lusts for power. It’s a grind but Gwen’s and Arthur’s love gives them both strength.
Again, as in the previous books, setting is a major part of the story. Details and descriptions immerse the reader in the primitive and half ruined land that was Britain in the Dark Ages. Places, people, and characters are vivid and memorable.
I recommend this third book in the Guinevere series highly.
Quincy Bragg
Author of “Prescient” and “the ant farm”.
May 12, 2022
In this third book about the modern-day woman who leaps back in time to become the legendary Arthur’s wife, the stakes are raised again. The Saxons are on the march, Morgana is spinning her plots, and Arthur’s sly older brother Cadwy will stop at nothing to undermine him.
Birth, death, magic, and enduring love make this tale absorbing and rewarding. The climax brings a long-awaited confrontation that will shape the future of Britain.
Birth, death, magic, and enduring love make this tale absorbing and rewarding. The climax brings a long-awaited confrontation that will shape the future of Britain.
September 1, 2022
This third instalment of Gwen and Arthur’s story proves that Fil Reid is as consistent as she is adept at balancing romance and historical adventure. I love the way Gwen Fry is growing into her role as mother, wife, and most challengingly, the dark ages queen of Dumnonia. The language is liquid and the excitement is incendiary. I couldn’t put it down!
My alternate, exclusive review is published in the September 2022 issue of InD’Tale Magazine, where it has been awarded the maximum stars allowed for a serialized instalment under the magazine’s guidelines.
My alternate, exclusive review is published in the September 2022 issue of InD’Tale Magazine, where it has been awarded the maximum stars allowed for a serialized instalment under the magazine’s guidelines.
September 17, 2022
Breathtaking story that is much more than a romance
Gwen's story in the Dark Ages continues, and while her romance with King Arthur develops, so does she to become the Queen Guinevere that'll be remembered in myths and legends.
A breathtaking story of love, friendship, political intrigue, magic, and the consequences all of these have on the so realistically portrayed, normal people of fifth century England.
Gwen's story in the Dark Ages continues, and while her romance with King Arthur develops, so does she to become the Queen Guinevere that'll be remembered in myths and legends.
A breathtaking story of love, friendship, political intrigue, magic, and the consequences all of these have on the so realistically portrayed, normal people of fifth century England.
September 6, 2022
Book three of the Guinevere series is as thrilling as its predecessors, full of romance, adventures, legends, and battles. Gwen is truly transforming into a warrior queen from the librarian she was in the twenty-first century. A thrilling page turner that will leave you thirsting for more. I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy from the author.
June 9, 2022
The Sword by Fil Reid is another episode in the time travel novel of librarian, Gwen, who becomes Guinevere, Queen to legendary King Arthur. One major takeaway is that it doesn't pay to know what is coming, especially if your knowledge is legend and you can't be sure how accurate it is. This book is full of battles, which is the part I'm not particularly fond of. Gwen pretty much accompanies Arthur and his army, thinking to protect him. She met some interesting people along the way and learned some things about early historians, ones read even in her time. Gwen and Arthur continue to be a spectacular love story, even their contemporaries recognize it. The one sacrifice she made to travel with Arthur is that she had to leave their son behind. This is something she paid for upon her return, at least for the short term.
Arthur is still alive, though he has been wounded. Gwen is still worrying. The legends don't seem 100% accurate and so in many ways she is blind. This is an all-encompassing rewrite of the legend, one with far more human traits for all of the participants than the legends portray. This is fiction, but then so are the legends, mostly. Gwen is proving herself to be intelligent and valuable to her husband and the kingdom is the better for it. The Dark Ages were a very violent and trying time for all concerned and Reid covers it fairly accurately. She even approaches the sword and the stone, but not exactly as legend would have it. It is a fun series and this was a good book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Sword by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #filreid #thesword
Arthur is still alive, though he has been wounded. Gwen is still worrying. The legends don't seem 100% accurate and so in many ways she is blind. This is an all-encompassing rewrite of the legend, one with far more human traits for all of the participants than the legends portray. This is fiction, but then so are the legends, mostly. Gwen is proving herself to be intelligent and valuable to her husband and the kingdom is the better for it. The Dark Ages were a very violent and trying time for all concerned and Reid covers it fairly accurately. She even approaches the sword and the stone, but not exactly as legend would have it. It is a fun series and this was a good book. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Sword by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #filreid #thesword
June 11, 2022
I loved the first two books in this series, and was happy to receive an ARC of the third installment of Guinevere’s story, The Sword.
21st century Gwen is settling into her new life in the fifth century, feeling more confident in her role of queen and wife of Arthur. Unsure of which Arthurian legends might be true, Gwen fears Arthur will die at Camlann, but she doesn’t know exactly where or when that battle will take place. When Arthur is called upon to defend against the Saxons, Gwen insists upon traveling with him, leaving her infant son behind. Much of the book takes place while Gwen is away from her home in Din Caden, where she witnesses the brutal realities of war and even has to defend herself and the town of Vindolanda.
Gwen and Arthur experienced struggles and marital tensions in the second book, but here their love deepens despite being apart for much of the story. I enjoyed seeing how their relationship matured. I also enjoyed Gwen’s friendship with the wife of Vindolanda’s king. I felt for Gwen as she struggled with missing her son, and the consequences that resulted from her long absence from his life.
Arthur’s family dynamics are entertaining. His evil sister, Morgana, presents a sinister twist toward the end of the book, leading to the climax involving the legendary sword. As with the other two books, this one ends just when you’re on the edge of your seat.
21st century Gwen is settling into her new life in the fifth century, feeling more confident in her role of queen and wife of Arthur. Unsure of which Arthurian legends might be true, Gwen fears Arthur will die at Camlann, but she doesn’t know exactly where or when that battle will take place. When Arthur is called upon to defend against the Saxons, Gwen insists upon traveling with him, leaving her infant son behind. Much of the book takes place while Gwen is away from her home in Din Caden, where she witnesses the brutal realities of war and even has to defend herself and the town of Vindolanda.
Gwen and Arthur experienced struggles and marital tensions in the second book, but here their love deepens despite being apart for much of the story. I enjoyed seeing how their relationship matured. I also enjoyed Gwen’s friendship with the wife of Vindolanda’s king. I felt for Gwen as she struggled with missing her son, and the consequences that resulted from her long absence from his life.
Arthur’s family dynamics are entertaining. His evil sister, Morgana, presents a sinister twist toward the end of the book, leading to the climax involving the legendary sword. As with the other two books, this one ends just when you’re on the edge of your seat.
August 8, 2022
As a young adult I read The Mists of Avalon and have been hooked on Arthurian Legend stories ever since. No tale has ever equaled the splendor and superb writing style of Bradley until now. The Dragon Ring by Fil Reid is an epic full length saga that is absolutely fascinating, steeped in historically accurate detail and set in the Dark Ages. The premise of the tale is that a young woman named Guinevere, daughter of an Arthurian Legend scholar, finds a ring that transports her from modern day England to the England of 1500 years in the past. She becomes known as The Dragon Ring Maiden who was prophesied to marry Arthur and make him a king. Gwen finds herself in a quandary. Does she remain in the past and marry the enigmatic Arthur and live the life she and her father obsessed about? Or does she return to the 21 century with its modern conveniences and her boyfriend Nathan? The settings are richly detailed and awe inspiring. The characters are complex and profound. Reid is a masterful story teller who weaves together a fascinating tale of family dynamics, feudalism, and the quests for thrones, magic and love. It is an exceptionally well written, engaging tale of medieval proportions.
February 28, 2024
Uncaged Review: The first half of this book which is the third in the series, consists of a year long campaign that keeps Arthur and Gwen away from Din Cadan and their son. Vivid imagery and battles make up the Dark Ages of Britain during King Arthur’s reign. The timeline of history remains, although the author has taken her own retelling of this King in a much more romanticized direction. The reader is immersed in the story but there is always danger right around every corner. The evil sister of Arthur is Morgana, and she’s taken a smitten Merlin away with her deception. So Arthur goes to his vile brother’s fortress and a decision is made to fight.
We learn more about Morgana, and her cruel ways, and now the sword, that’s been in the stone for three years will finally come into play. Was Arthur the one meant to pull it out and be the High King?
This is a non-stop action-packed story, with even further development of the friendships Gwen is forming. A 21st Century woman becoming the Queen she was meant to be. This is the first series in a long time that I’ve been drawn to read in order. Thankfully they are all out now. Reviewed by Cyrene
We learn more about Morgana, and her cruel ways, and now the sword, that’s been in the stone for three years will finally come into play. Was Arthur the one meant to pull it out and be the High King?
This is a non-stop action-packed story, with even further development of the friendships Gwen is forming. A 21st Century woman becoming the Queen she was meant to be. This is the first series in a long time that I’ve been drawn to read in order. Thankfully they are all out now. Reviewed by Cyrene
January 11, 2024
I loved getting to read another book in the Guinevere series! Every one of the books is amazing and full of love, drama, heartache, and happiness. I also love getting to see the Arthur story in a historical fiction kind of way. I have no idea if Arthur was a real person, or if Merlin really existed, but from the first time I watched Disney's Sword in the Stone, I was hooked on the story. I absolutely love the way Fil Reid tells the story with bits of what I've heard (or watched) woven into her own imaginative story of Arthur. I never cared much about Guinevere until Fil Reid's books. In all honesty, I thought Gwen was the most boring part of the story, but not here and not in Fil Reid's books! I love getting to see Arthur have a strong, independent woman by his side throughout his journey. I laugh out loud at some of the times he's a total pigheaded butt to Gwen and she doesn't hesitate to put him in his place (usually without him knowing it).
Such a good book! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Such a good book! Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
May 25, 2022
Can a twenty-first century woman change the destiny of a fifth-century warrior king?
Author Fil Reid continues to explore that question in the third book of her series Guinevere: The Sword.
As Arthur’s queen, Gwen learns to adapt to the politics, battles and hardships of fifth-century Britain. Challenging events test the mettle of the trust and growing love and loyalty between the couple. Can Gwen help Arthur as he fights to establish his authority and defend his kingdom? Or will her knowledge of the myths and legends surrounding him be the cause of the changes that occur?
The question haunts the story right down to the narrative of Arthur pulling the sword of destiny from the stone. As I read this book, I could feel each page leading me to that epic moment. I had to keep reading. Reid brings her characters and Arthur’s world to life better than any other book I have read on this great king.
Martha Leonard
Author Fil Reid continues to explore that question in the third book of her series Guinevere: The Sword.
As Arthur’s queen, Gwen learns to adapt to the politics, battles and hardships of fifth-century Britain. Challenging events test the mettle of the trust and growing love and loyalty between the couple. Can Gwen help Arthur as he fights to establish his authority and defend his kingdom? Or will her knowledge of the myths and legends surrounding him be the cause of the changes that occur?
The question haunts the story right down to the narrative of Arthur pulling the sword of destiny from the stone. As I read this book, I could feel each page leading me to that epic moment. I had to keep reading. Reid brings her characters and Arthur’s world to life better than any other book I have read on this great king.
Martha Leonard
June 5, 2022
I’ve had the privilege of reading this book before its publication, and every new book by Fil Reid is such a treat. This series is one of those rare Historical Fantasy books that come alive so well, you feel you’re part of the story, or at least seeing the movie play out in the most intrinsic details possible.
At this point Gwen has adapted more to the Dark Ages, even though her 21st century mentality still comes out strong sometimes. Being married to King Arthur has turned out to be more than she could ever imagine. Although they’re facing a rough patch from the get-go, their love proves stronger. But knowing that Arthur’s story isn’t a “happily ever after fairytale” weighs down on Gwen more and more each day. And she grapples with how much of what she knows about the future is really supposed to happen or she’s responsible for making it happen.
Enjoy the ride into a legend that comes alive on the page thanks to one of the most talented writers I know.
At this point Gwen has adapted more to the Dark Ages, even though her 21st century mentality still comes out strong sometimes. Being married to King Arthur has turned out to be more than she could ever imagine. Although they’re facing a rough patch from the get-go, their love proves stronger. But knowing that Arthur’s story isn’t a “happily ever after fairytale” weighs down on Gwen more and more each day. And she grapples with how much of what she knows about the future is really supposed to happen or she’s responsible for making it happen.
Enjoy the ride into a legend that comes alive on the page thanks to one of the most talented writers I know.
August 1, 2022
This is the third book in Fil Reid’s Arthurian series and it does not disappoint. There is action aplenty and several tests of Gwen’s relationship with Arthur. I particularly enjoyed the section set along and beyond Hadrian’s Wall as I have done some excavations there.
The book evokes the period with a sure touch, drawing on a lifetime of enthusiasm and research. I believe the descriptive passages in this third instalment are the strongest yet. They are all the more telling when Gwen compares her life to the one she enjoyed in the twenty-first century.
As the main character, Gwen is convincingly drawn and is really growing into her status as Arthur’s queen in this book.
I also really enjoyed the way strands of the Arthurian legends are combined to drive the plot. A thoroughly compelling read that leaves me impatient for book four!
The book evokes the period with a sure touch, drawing on a lifetime of enthusiasm and research. I believe the descriptive passages in this third instalment are the strongest yet. They are all the more telling when Gwen compares her life to the one she enjoyed in the twenty-first century.
As the main character, Gwen is convincingly drawn and is really growing into her status as Arthur’s queen in this book.
I also really enjoyed the way strands of the Arthurian legends are combined to drive the plot. A thoroughly compelling read that leaves me impatient for book four!
July 10, 2023
Mounting Action in this exhilerating series
Book 3 of the Guinevere series continues with mounting action, drama and battles in this time-travel Arthurian historical romance/saga. Readers will not be disappointed in the attention to detail, and the traditional Arthurian mythology woven expertly into a new telling of a 21st century woman thrown back through time and magic into the role of Guinevere. She struggles with 21st century values, but understands she needs to conform to 5th century expectations to support her husband and be his queen—within reason. She's still an intelligent, independent and savvy commander in her own right, with a foresight to bolster her confidence.
Book 3 of the Guinevere series continues with mounting action, drama and battles in this time-travel Arthurian historical romance/saga. Readers will not be disappointed in the attention to detail, and the traditional Arthurian mythology woven expertly into a new telling of a 21st century woman thrown back through time and magic into the role of Guinevere. She struggles with 21st century values, but understands she needs to conform to 5th century expectations to support her husband and be his queen—within reason. She's still an intelligent, independent and savvy commander in her own right, with a foresight to bolster her confidence.
February 20, 2025
Between the history, the beautiful landscapes and the characters, this series so far has been absolutely captivating. Fil Reid continues this Arthurian saga with more danger, more uncertainties, viscious battles and the fear that the future for King Arthur will be as predicted.
Gwen, having come from the 21st century and married to King Arthur will do everything she can to protect him, even going against his wishes of not going into battle with him. At one point she even leaves their child for months at a time which had to be very hard on her! She definitely has a lot on her plate and not trusting Arthur's sister Morgana just adds to it.
The story ends with Arthur removing the sword from the stone.....now on to book 4!!!
Gwen, having come from the 21st century and married to King Arthur will do everything she can to protect him, even going against his wishes of not going into battle with him. At one point she even leaves their child for months at a time which had to be very hard on her! She definitely has a lot on her plate and not trusting Arthur's sister Morgana just adds to it.
The story ends with Arthur removing the sword from the stone.....now on to book 4!!!
January 27, 2025
I have submitted this review after listening to the audiobook of this title. (Audible)
The third book I this series sees Genevieve accompanying Arthur across the Briton of the 5th century. Declared the defender for all the kings of the Dark Age Britain, there are numerous foes wanting to take the fertile lands, so one commander of a combined forces was needed to come to the defence of the widespread communities. Arthur was that man. And when the time was right, the sword in the stone is pulled to decree his right as King of Kings.
The third book I this series sees Genevieve accompanying Arthur across the Briton of the 5th century. Declared the defender for all the kings of the Dark Age Britain, there are numerous foes wanting to take the fertile lands, so one commander of a combined forces was needed to come to the defence of the widespread communities. Arthur was that man. And when the time was right, the sword in the stone is pulled to decree his right as King of Kings.
May 30, 2022
As the third book in this series opens, Gwen continues her adventure, trying to support Arthur, but worried about the future. She insists going with him as he goes to battle and give the support he needs.
She also has to deal with his evil sister Morgana and they also go and end up finding the sword!
Adventure, excitement, suspense... it is all there as the saga continues!
She also has to deal with his evil sister Morgana and they also go and end up finding the sword!
Adventure, excitement, suspense... it is all there as the saga continues!
March 22, 2023
King Arthur Adventure!
Gwen is adapting to living in the dark ages in this very interesting, easy to read, historical adventure. Remembering her history lessons, she fears every time Arthur is in battle, will this be the one that she loses him in. Morgana is back to her evil scheming. Plenty of adventure and danger in this story, with great world building and characters.
Gwen is adapting to living in the dark ages in this very interesting, easy to read, historical adventure. Remembering her history lessons, she fears every time Arthur is in battle, will this be the one that she loses him in. Morgana is back to her evil scheming. Plenty of adventure and danger in this story, with great world building and characters.
June 18, 2022
The author took me on another great adventure through the eyes of Gwen in the era of King Arthur that is so detailed and the imagery so vivid, I felt like I was in that time with the characters. Lots of suspense, tension, and excitement throughout. Great book!
October 23, 2022
Suspense Filled and A Fun Read
I’ve just completed the first three Guinevere books by Fil Reid and have enjoyed every moment. As a writer myself, I appreciate a story well told, especially one that has to work with known history. Lovely read, Fil. Thanks
I’ve just completed the first three Guinevere books by Fil Reid and have enjoyed every moment. As a writer myself, I appreciate a story well told, especially one that has to work with known history. Lovely read, Fil. Thanks
August 26, 2022
Can’t wait for the next one!!! Awesome series!
November 14, 2022
When will book 4 be available?!?
March 30, 2024
"The Sword" flowed smoothly from "The Bear's Heart". It was filled with adventure. I am looking forward to the next book "Warrior Queen".
October 28, 2024
On to book 4
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