Vivi Conway and the Sword of Legend

Vivi Conway #1

by Lizzie Huxley-Jones

“The problem with growing up listening to bedtime stories about monsters, magic and myth is that you don’t really question it when a lake summons you…”

The lake has been calling to twelve-year-old Vivi Conway. On the day she and her Mams will move from Wales to London, she sneaks out to investigate what is calling her there. Instead of a quiet swim, she finds Excalibur (much smaller than she expected), a ferocious monster (much scarier in real life than in her mythology books), a new friend (which she doesn’t want at all) called Dara and a ghostly dog named Gelert (who can talk).

Gelert insists that Vivi is part of a magical group of children who share the souls of witches from legend and must protect the world from being taken over by the evil King Arawn of the Otherworld. Oh, and now she can magically control water. With a little extra help from spiky Stevie and sweet-hearted Chia, Vivi must come to terms with her magical destiny and be brave enough to embrace true friendship.

The first book in a fantastical series that combines a quest for magic and friendship with Welsh mythology and a pinch of science, all within a contemporary setting.

Genres: Middle Grade, Fantasy, LGBT, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Childrens, Disability, Fiction

353 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2023

About the author

Hello! Thanks for joining me in the 5 star recs zone. Please feel free to follow - I don't tend to add people back as I don't actually use Goodreads myself any more. I just come back here to pop down the recommendations that I post on Twitter and Instagram where I'm @littlehux so you're better off finding me there as I really don't use Goodreads much at all any more.

Official Bit:
Lizzie Huxley-Jones (they/them) is an autistic author and editor based in London. They are the author of the queer holiday rom-com Make You Mine This Christmas (2022) from Hodder Books, the summer romance Hits Different co-written with Tasha Ghouri (2024) from Hot Key Books, and Vivi Conway and the Sword of Legend (2023) from Knights Of. They write joyful stories that centre queerness and disability.

They are the editor of Stim, an anthology of autistic authors and artists, which was published by Unbound in April 2020 to coincide with World Autism Awareness Week. They are also the author of the children’s biography Sir David Attenborough: A Life Story (2020) and a contributor to the anthology Allies: Real Talk About Showing Up, Screwing Up, And Trying Again (2021).
They also work with writers and publishers as a sensitivity reader and editorial consultant, and were an editor at independent micropublisher 3 of Cups Press.

In their past career lives, they have been a research diver, a children’s bookseller and digital communications specialist.

They tweet too much at @littlehux, taking breaks to walk their dog Nerys.

They are represented by Abi Fellows of DHH Literary Agency.

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, I loved this book! It begins a new MG fantasy series that beautifully interweaves Welsh legends and myths with a contemporary British setting, with a wonderful, brave, autistic heroine who finally finds true friends (after traumatic bullying in her last school) at the same time as discovering her new friends' group's mythic, destined purpose. The friendships that build among the diverse group of kids feel so true and heartfelt, the action scenes are breathlessly exciting (including one AMAZING one behind the scenes in the British library!), and I cried at the emotional catharsis of one quiet conversation in the second half.

Oh, and this book also includes the BEST ghost dog. I love Gelert so much!!!!

The representation in this book (including various types of disabilities, both visible and invisible, as well as ethnic diversity and LGBTQ+ characters) will mean so much to the kids who need it - and I just can't imagine any fantasy-loving kids NOT loving this wonderful adventure. There were so many lines along the way that I loved for their sparkly humor, and the warmth of the tone is so inviting from the very beginning.

I can't wait for Book 2 to arrive!

[Anniek · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of those books I read at exactly the right time. It was just what I needed right now, and I absolutely LOVED it. It's such a heartfelt story, making this a perfect comfort read, infused with friendship, a very loveable animal sidekick, queer and disability representation, and magic and Welsh mythology.

[kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delight of a read. A true joy from start to finish. With a cracking adventure, threads of Welsh mythology, a lovable cast of characters - all of whom are beautifully developed - and a heartfelt focus on friendship and belonging, this is a gorgeously inclusive, exciting and warmhearted read and a story I can’t wait to dive back into with its sequel.

[Laura Noakes · Rating 5 out of 5]

ADORED this, it is a triumph of middle grade fantasy. An edge-of-your-seat adventure underpinned by rich mythology and a brave heroine that will capture your heart. Hux has spun a classic tale for the ages.

P.S. Might start my own Stevie fan-club, I love her!!

[Silent Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: The publisher (Knights Of) provided me with the book for this review, but all opinions stated are my own honest thoughts.

Summary:
Vivi loves her home in Wales, but after being severely bullied at school, her mums decide to move to London for a fresh start – we meet Vivi the night before the big move. She is unable to sleep, distracted by something she has felt has been calling her for the last two weeks, so needing to investigate, she sneaks out to her nearby lake for a swim and to say goodbye…but she gets far more than she bargained for. A creature of myth attacks her, causing her to nearly drown and discover a sword that has been waiting for her in the lake’s depths. A boy and a talking dog arrive just in time to save her, explaining her fate is sealed in ancient legend, all confirmed by Excalibur clutched in her dripping fingers. Vivi Conway is a story of bravery, friendship and the importance of being yourself – as well as a few monsters that snatch children, and a whole lot of world-saving between pizza deliveries and YouTube videos.

The Specifics of the Edition:
I read the standard paperback, which was published by Knights Of in 2023 as the first instalment to the series. The wonderful cover was designed by Sophie McDonnell and illustrated by Harry Woodgate.

My thoughts:
Vivi Conway and the Sword of Legend was an imaginative first instalment, that I found reminiscent in some ways to the 2019 film, The Kid Who Would Be King. I would recommend it for anybody who is nine years and upwards who likes character-oriented, children-save-the-world fantasy. It had an engaging opener, which immediately thrust readers into a perilous, high-stake action scene, which set the tone for the rest of the book. Once you start reading Vivi’s story you are immediately invested and really don’t want to put it down.

It was an adventurous and fresh take on Arthurian myth and Welsh mythology in unexpected directions that ultimately was truly engrossing and worked well. I am excited for the next book, where I expect this aspect will deepen more, with a lot of this book dedicated to the readers understanding and worldbuilding. The glossary and pronunciation guide at the back was a great touch that made the text more accessible and certainly saved me a lot of time googling. I should also note that no background understanding of these myths/cultures are needed to enjoy this book, as the author has made it their own and created something completely new. I am a great myth lover and this book has certainly reignited my passion to learn more about Arthurian and Welsh mythology. I suspect many readers may feel the same way! The setting of the Unland and dream lake was fascinating, and I am curious to see how this will be deepened in book two. I also hope they manage to explore more of the Unland and find out about its structure, crystals and monsters – hopefully Emrys comes back, I suspect his appearance was foreshadowing of an exciting happening!

The author managed to create a strong and diverse cast of characters, all of which felt believable and individual in their own right. I would argue it is one of the authors greatest skills, alongside writing action scenes. Vivi was a wonderful first-person narrator and heroine, but I will admit that Gelert stole my heart! His tragic backstory really added to the sense that every character has been carefully considered by the author – and his personality and harsh accent was humorously complimentary to the story. I thought it was sweet that his grumpy nature was inspired by the author’s pet, which they mentioned in the acknowledgements (I too have a rather grumpy canine companion!).

I think it is admirable that the author managed to capture so many different examples of families and people. I have not read a book with a nonbinary character before, which in retrospect I find quite surprising, so I think it can only be a good thing for younger people to be exposed to all kinds of different realities others live. I was pleased to find that all differences (whether this is due to neurodivergence/disability/gender/etc) were just a part of the character, rather than a plotline in itself. In my opinion, though the aforementioned types of books are perfectly fine, I think it is important to present children with characters who live with differences, but are not defined by them alone. It fosters understanding in readers who are unfamiliar, but can be inspiring for those with similar conditions to see themselves reflected in a positive representation. I think neutrality is one of the most untapped ways of discussing these things, as it is not patronising/dismissive to any party and normalises the accommodations some people need. A good example of this is that Vivi’s group of friends are very accepting of each other and there is no pushback in any way to what somebody requires, even if it means changing plans or the way a character interacts with another one who is struggling (I’m trying to avoid spoilers here, so I apologise that this lacks some detail).

Please find the rest of my review here: https://thesilentreviewerblog.wordpre...

[Sky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Content Warnings: Racism & Homophobia (minor mentions of both), Blood, Injuries, Death, Missing Friend, Autistic Meltdown

Note: Autism/Autistic meltdowns themselves aren’t a content warning, but the descriptive nature of an autistic meltdown in this book could be hard for some of us autistics to read if not in the right headspace 🙂

Omg yes this is what I wanted from Legendborn when I read that. Wonderful Welsh mythology, great use of the Welsh language (with a wonderfully accurate pronunciation guide at the back, take that A Deadly Education!!), and such a creative use of Welsh mythological creatures! Loved the angle it took with the original stories as well, I’ve always been curious as to how those stories are approached for a child audience!

Vivi is moving from Wales all the way to London. Being autistic though, that’s a hard change to process - even harder if on the morning of the move you find out all your bedtime tales are actually reality and you now have a magical sword! A new reality, navigating high school and saving the world, Vivi and her new friends must battle their way through the obstacles ahead and team up!

I loved the characters, flawed but able to grow nicely. Character growth is strong and relationships between characters are great and realistic. Trauma plays into how the characters and relationships grow, but it’s dealt with wonderfully. The diversity of the characters is also great and despite being *so* diverse, it feels normal and realistic and not forced in any way. I can only speak about the autistic and non-binary representation but both of them were done wonderfully. The autistic representation of school and such was painfully accurate, and the non-binary character was just delightful ♥️

I loved this book so much, I loved the world it’s created and I need more from this!!

[Rachel Hyde · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun, refreshing read!

Vivi as a character has a really distinctive voice and all the characters feel bright and dynamic.

This is a story about friendship, treasuring each other’s differences and overcoming the obstacles life throws at us. All told against a backdrop of British mythology and magic!

I must admit I thought it was a standalone, so I was a bit surprised to discover that it’s the first in a series, but saying that I think it does a good job of laying the groundwork of the world that Vivi and her friends find themselves in. Because it’s the first in a series though, that means a lot of questions go unanswered and there’s still lots of the world to explore/discover.

At times I think the plot may be a little complicated for some younger MG readers, though it’s nothing an older MG reader would struggle with. Some of the messaging may be a little heavy handed - but again it’s MG, that’s to be expected.

Overall, I really loved this adventure, and I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel!

[Kitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not a natural fantasy reader but I really liked the myths and legends element to this. I thought it was quite visual - the museum scene, for example, would be terrific filmed. But really what I liked best about it was how well the autism element was handled: it isn't the point of the book or the reason for the character to exist. Vivi is just having an adventure, but along the way, she describes how she feels so naturally, and how her autism runs through her day-to-day life - things like experiencing overload or the enhanced anxiety around new situations. Young readers with autism will see themselves, which is so important, but it should never be shelved purely as an issue-led book. This is a great book for all young readers, who can enjoy the adventure and then also understand a little more about what it's like to have a friend with autism. It normalises it, which is just lovely to see.

[BookBairn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really really wanted to love this book because the representation is so good but I found the pacing really disjointed and it was a bit like being on a stop-start rollercoaster where you were shot at top speed into the story but then it clunked along in places and then some scenes were so action-packed it was all a blur and I had no idea what was actually happening. It was also rather long, and is part of a series (duology? trilogy? - not sure) so it just kind of came to a halt in what felt to me like an unsatisfying ending.
That being said, this book had many excellent parts - the fantasy world building was strong and I felt the real threat and peril of creepy creatures. I loved the connection to myth and mythology and how that was woven into the characters stories as well as the narrative.
But the real strength in this book was the writing of the autistic protagonist whose story was compelling, engaging and realistic (except for the magical quest obviously). I loved her interactions with all the other characters in the book, I loved how at times she felt the need to mask her autism and in others she was more open and honest which really showed the complexity and exhaustion nature of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world. The friendships in this were so strong in that each character was flawed and their friends supported them to grow, held them up when they struggled and cheered them on in their successes. And because of that it’s a brilliant story about friendship.

[Magnus McIntyre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Speaking as an autistic person, the autism representation was good. When they touched on it it was well done but they didn't touch on it too much, but even that is good in its own way because it meant it didn't make too big a deal out of it.
A lot of the other representation was like that, too.
There were a few good twists and turns. Also, it referenced a few myths I'd heard of before but also some I hadn't heard of before, and I'm a big fan of mythology. I even read a book on Welsh legends and myths before this and it was only moderately helpful.
The characters were quite likeable, too.
It also had some good emotional moments.
The surprise and cliffhanger at the end were well done.
This was quite a good book. I'd be interested in reading the sequels, but I think I'd like to read another book on Welsh Myths, first.

[Claire MacPherson · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Gosh, I don't know. Seems like I'm swimming against the tide here, but this wasn't my favourite kids book. First thing - so many typos! Did anyone proof-read this? Seriously, I counted at least 20 missing words and spelling errors. Not great.

I also thought the book needed some serious editing. I loved the representation and the characters themselves were interesting and well-formed. The premise was decent, with some interesting ideas, but there was so much superfluous text that didn't move the action along in the slightest and this rendered the plot a bit... well, boring. The second half of the book seemed rushed out and, again, not much actually happened for chapters. Both my kid and I were a bit disappointed tbh.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

For a children's book i find this very important. Representation is everything and there is a wide range of things subtly woven into this book. LGBTQ+, non-binary, physical disabilities and neuro divergence (autism) are all important in this text. The message of accepting differences and how this doesnt impact on who a person is and how they should be treated runs throughout.

Im a huge mythology lover anyways so the draw of an arthurian children's book was big. The legend was used well but in a way as not to weigh the reader down with technicalities.

I look forward to seeing this on the library shelves - i encourage anyone to read it, both young readers and adults alike.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Man alive, this is AMAZING. If you like mythology, own voices rep of autism, some banging kids who fight terrifying spider things and just brilliant storytelling, then look no further. Add to that gay mams, NB rep (in a kids book!!), an amazing dog companion and multiple scenes that made me cry, and you’ve got something that is just top bloody billing. Lizzie has written something excellent here and I need book 2 NOW!

[Rachel Bowdler · Rating 5 out of 5]

My sister and I loved reading this book together! Vivi is actually one of the first autistic MCs I’ve read, and I felt very proud to share so much inclusivity with my sister. Tethered to Welsh mythology, Vivi Conway is a story of adventure and friendship that warms the heart and has you praying for a happy ending. The characters are all distinctly unique in their own ways and easy to love. Would recommend to any middle grade readers!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

We had a copy of this in our staffroom (thanks Knights Of!!) so I gave it a go, as I'd been seeing plenty of praise for it online. I adored it! It has a little of something for everyone - a fantasy for kids grounded in Welsh myth with a great group of central characters making up a gorgeous group of pals. It is a real celebration of difference, calling for empathy, and it even has a glossary of Welsh words at the end. I can't wait to see what the kids get up to in the next book!

[Manic Booksy Dreamgirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful Children's Fantasy. This book is equal parts Adventure, Modern Legend and heartwarming story. It features some fantastic representation that made me smile and feel seen.

While I was reading this I read out some of the funniest lines to my six year old and he absolutely loved it. Can't wait for him to read this himself when he's old enough.

[Mrs Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the representation of Autism, LGBTQ+ and other disabilities. The storyline had some great points but there are bits I just felt dragged and didn’t make any sense.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read my full review here. (Spoilers: I absolutely adored this book.)

[KW · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting adventure, gorgeous queer and disabled rep, a lovely read :)

[Krys · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Sinéad O'Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly fast-paced adventure with excellent rep (LGBTQ+ and disability), with Gelert (a dog I would 100% go to battle for) and a fantastic, relatable and courageous heroine in Vivi.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great for 10-13 year olds, with lovely characters. I personally felt like there wasn't as much Welsh legend weaved through, but loved Dara, Stevie, Chia and Vivi.

[Laura S · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

[Kitchen Sink Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

A debut. A book inspired by Welsh myths. A story that celebrates the vulnerability we only share when we find true friendships. Vivi Conway and the Sword of Legend shows readers how it is possible to celebrate differences, the differences we all have, that it is important to learn about and support in one another. Vivi, our main character is the autistic protagonist of the tale, a girl who has grown up listening to bedtime stories all about monsters, magic, and myths. A girl who questions none of these things and believes in them all. With so much contained in this book it quite literally leaves you on the edge of your seat, captures your heart and encourages you to keep reading and yearn for more adventures.

Vivi is twelve years old and she, along with her mams, is due to move to London, from Wales. Enjoying her last sleep in Wales, Vivi sneaks out in the dead of night to investigate a call from the Lake, a call that she has not questioned. But instead of having a quiet swim she meets a terrifying monster who she only escapes when Excalibur presents itself as do Gelert, a ghostly talking dog, and Dara who is about to become a new friend. In London imagine Vivi’s surprise when she meets them again and learns she has a magical destiny, sharing the soul of witches from legend. Discovering her new abilities, controlling water among them, she also discovers that she has to take on her role as protector of the world from evil. An absolutely must-read story.

[Tandri Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars
CAWPILE = 9.21
Emeto-Unsafe

Emetophobia notes:
There was:
- On-page of someone spi*ing out a gob of bloody goo in chapter 2
- On-page of someone with a hacking co* then co* u* water in chapter 2
- Mention-only of there being a s* feeling rising in someone's stomach in chapter 4
- Mention-only of someone feeling n* in chapter 8
- Mention-only of something looking s* not in relation to v* in chapter 11
- Mention-only of someone hoping no one got s* in chapter 15
- Mention-only of s*ness in chapter 18
- Mention-only of someone feeling like they are going to be s* in chapter 20
- On-page r* in chapter 30
- On-page v* in chapter 30
- Mention-only of someone feeling s* to their stomach in chapter 31