What do you think?
Excalibur's Pendragon: Book One of the Aethervard Legacy
What empowers a legend? What turned a lowly boy into a warrior king? Who says that a new legend can’t be produced in the modern day?
How could a high school boy like Ryan Walker come to know or care about such things when his soul is broken? Even with the support of his father and friends, he lacks the fortitude to face his inner conflict, a struggle that has worn down his spirit for nearly a year. In Ryan’s eyes, the way forward is impossible.
But this pain doesn’t spare the troubled boy from the magic trials that await him. Somehow, he is burdened with powers too great for any human to handle, abilities that make him the target of ferocious demons that seek to taste his blood. Try as he might to escape this, Ryan is pulled toward an ancient legacy built upon the sentient sword Excalibur and its servants known as the Pendragons. The more he learns of this legacy, the more he is surrounded by mystic powers, a secret organization, characters from Arthurian lore, and enemies from the enchanted realm of Annwn.
These extraordinary forces push Ryan to his breaking point, but there is one more challenge that is harder than the rest. Some people are not who they seem, and their secrets could prove harmful when brought to light. This revelation could blow Ryan off course at a time when one deviation can cost him everything.
Regardless of the outcome, whatever path is placed before Ryan by the godlike sentinels of Annwn, what good can he do when he is so eager to reject his calling? How can he become a Chosen One when he feels robbed of the right to choose otherwise? Furthermore, in the event that he is offered that choice, what could possibly dissuade him from taking the way out?
Discover the answers to these questions and more in the first installment of The Aethervard Legacy !
How could a high school boy like Ryan Walker come to know or care about such things when his soul is broken? Even with the support of his father and friends, he lacks the fortitude to face his inner conflict, a struggle that has worn down his spirit for nearly a year. In Ryan’s eyes, the way forward is impossible.
But this pain doesn’t spare the troubled boy from the magic trials that await him. Somehow, he is burdened with powers too great for any human to handle, abilities that make him the target of ferocious demons that seek to taste his blood. Try as he might to escape this, Ryan is pulled toward an ancient legacy built upon the sentient sword Excalibur and its servants known as the Pendragons. The more he learns of this legacy, the more he is surrounded by mystic powers, a secret organization, characters from Arthurian lore, and enemies from the enchanted realm of Annwn.
These extraordinary forces push Ryan to his breaking point, but there is one more challenge that is harder than the rest. Some people are not who they seem, and their secrets could prove harmful when brought to light. This revelation could blow Ryan off course at a time when one deviation can cost him everything.
Regardless of the outcome, whatever path is placed before Ryan by the godlike sentinels of Annwn, what good can he do when he is so eager to reject his calling? How can he become a Chosen One when he feels robbed of the right to choose otherwise? Furthermore, in the event that he is offered that choice, what could possibly dissuade him from taking the way out?
Discover the answers to these questions and more in the first installment of The Aethervard Legacy !
273 pages, Hardcover
Published November 4, 2022
About the author
Parker C Wilson
1 book8 followersParker C. Wilson is a multi-award-winning author who loves writing and reading stories that help him embrace the beauties of life even when there are challenges. His debut fantasy novel – Excalibur’s Pendragon – has won four national awards, and he plans to write many more books in his series called The Aethervard Legacy. His purpose for writing is to help readers overcome challenges by providing them with characters in his stories that choose to do the same. To stay informed about Wilson’s upcoming books, subscribe to the author’s newsletter at https://parkercwilson.co/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 23, 2024
I'm a sucker for a hero's quest. I also happen to love YA fantasy and had a small obsession with all things Arthurian legand and Knight's of the round table when I was 14.
So this Goodreads give-away was an easy pick for me.
In this modern adaptation to the Pendragon story we meet 17 year old Ryan Walker. Depressed from the recent passing of his mother, Ryan is lost and has no motivation to move forward with his life.
When he awakes to find a mysterious symbol appearing on his body, his world is turned upside down. He is thrown into the Pendragon legacy, the protection of Excalibur and an army of demons that would see him dead.
What I really liked here was that Ryan is pretty complex for a YA book and the loss of his mother is not just a typical Disney-like ploy. The mental state of Ryan during his loss is very relatable and plays large part in his decisions throughout. Ryan is a very well developed character, as is Kate- his unlikely friend and ally through his introduction to this new world.
I'm excited to read the rest of the tale and find this to be really entertaining to my age group but would also recommend easily to the 12-15 year old readers who might also fall in love with the story of Excalibur and the Arthurian legend.
So this Goodreads give-away was an easy pick for me.
In this modern adaptation to the Pendragon story we meet 17 year old Ryan Walker. Depressed from the recent passing of his mother, Ryan is lost and has no motivation to move forward with his life.
When he awakes to find a mysterious symbol appearing on his body, his world is turned upside down. He is thrown into the Pendragon legacy, the protection of Excalibur and an army of demons that would see him dead.
What I really liked here was that Ryan is pretty complex for a YA book and the loss of his mother is not just a typical Disney-like ploy. The mental state of Ryan during his loss is very relatable and plays large part in his decisions throughout. Ryan is a very well developed character, as is Kate- his unlikely friend and ally through his introduction to this new world.
I'm excited to read the rest of the tale and find this to be really entertaining to my age group but would also recommend easily to the 12-15 year old readers who might also fall in love with the story of Excalibur and the Arthurian legend.
October 16, 2023
Excalibur’s Pendragon is a fantasy-filled fiction thriller novel written by Parker C Wilson, published in the year 2022. The story is set in a world full of secrets, adventures, and magic. It is a tale of endless twists, duty, love, and pure dedication.
Sometimes not everything is visible to our naked eye; there is a lot more behind it. Excalibur’s Pendragon is one such story where the protagonist Ryan is portrayed as just another guy from high school but little did he know he himself was the ocean of numerous power and magic. The story is filled with suspense, love, and thrill that you can’t wait for in its upcoming series.
Ryan's parents George and Rebecca had a connection with a terrestrial place called Annwn whose king was cursed by Mordred. Keeping the legacy alive the Atherverd promises the king that the next Excalibur’s emblem will manifest on the shoulder of an infant at his birth who will be the next pendragon. Born with the mark on his shoulder Ryan unearths the truth behind it.
The mark is just the beginning of this marvelous tale which unravels so many adventures, duties, and a legacy. Ryan meets Kate through their common link to the organization, and in a short duration, they become good friends. She was blessed with some inherent powers which will prove to be the icebreaker for the upcoming series.
Overall, the book engages audiences from every age group with its unique plot and dialogue delivery. It covers every relationship whether it is a friend or parents or anyone, they depict the bond beautifully. If you are a fantasy thriller person then what are you waiting for? Go and grab the book now!
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
✅ Verdict: An incredible fantasy adventure that seamlessly blends the modern world with ancient legends.
👉 Read the full review of Excalibur's Pendragon by Parker C. Wilson on Vowelor.
Sometimes not everything is visible to our naked eye; there is a lot more behind it. Excalibur’s Pendragon is one such story where the protagonist Ryan is portrayed as just another guy from high school but little did he know he himself was the ocean of numerous power and magic. The story is filled with suspense, love, and thrill that you can’t wait for in its upcoming series.
Ryan's parents George and Rebecca had a connection with a terrestrial place called Annwn whose king was cursed by Mordred. Keeping the legacy alive the Atherverd promises the king that the next Excalibur’s emblem will manifest on the shoulder of an infant at his birth who will be the next pendragon. Born with the mark on his shoulder Ryan unearths the truth behind it.
The mark is just the beginning of this marvelous tale which unravels so many adventures, duties, and a legacy. Ryan meets Kate through their common link to the organization, and in a short duration, they become good friends. She was blessed with some inherent powers which will prove to be the icebreaker for the upcoming series.
Overall, the book engages audiences from every age group with its unique plot and dialogue delivery. It covers every relationship whether it is a friend or parents or anyone, they depict the bond beautifully. If you are a fantasy thriller person then what are you waiting for? Go and grab the book now!
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
✅ Verdict: An incredible fantasy adventure that seamlessly blends the modern world with ancient legends.
👉 Read the full review of Excalibur's Pendragon by Parker C. Wilson on Vowelor.
May 29, 2023
This book was fantastic. Parker is a magnificent writer and has a gift for telling stories! I highly recommend this book!
Read
May 5, 2024DNF
The story was intriguing, but I couldn’t get past the writing. The author is incredibly sweet, and I’m happy to have the book on my shelf! Can’t wait to see his writing grow and improve through his career.
The story was intriguing, but I couldn’t get past the writing. The author is incredibly sweet, and I’m happy to have the book on my shelf! Can’t wait to see his writing grow and improve through his career.
December 10, 2023
In Excalibur’s Pendragon, Parker C. Wilson introduces us to Ryan Walker, a teenager grappling with the aftermath of his mother's untimely death and the ensuing depression. His quest for normalcy is derailed when he learns of his identity as the latest Pendragon, a direct descendant of the legendary King Arthur. The novel skillfully navigates Ryan's journey as he balances the harsh realities of his newfound role with the challenges of adolescence.
Wilson's foray into the realm of high fantasy with this novel is a notable addition to the extensive collection of works inspired by Arthurian legend. Despite the challenge of innovating within such a well-trodden theme, Wilson manages to blend familiar elements with unique twists, creating a narrative distinct from its predecessors. Ryan, initially depicted as an average teenager, finds himself thrust into a world of destiny and conflict, a journey he is reluctant to embrace. The novel playfully acknowledges its adherence to certain genre tropes, yet it confidently steps into uncharted territories, maintaining the reader's engagement with its inventive plot twists.
The core of Excalibur’s Pendragon lies in its exploration of destiny and the often-limited control we have over our own paths. The story's approach to this theme is fresh, rendering Ryan and the other characters as relatable and well-rounded. The narrative logic is consistent and well-structured within the book's universe. Wilson's narrative prowess shines particularly in the action-packed sequences, which escalate in intensity and stakes, revealing surprising alliances and betrayals. This dynamic storytelling ensures that the book remains a compelling read, particularly as it approaches its climax. The conclusion, while not a cliffhanger, leaves ample room for future exploration, inviting readers to anticipate further developments in this captivating narrative.
Excalibur’s Pendragon stands out as a creative and thrilling interpretation of Arthurian legend, blending the familiar with the innovative to craft a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Wilson's novel is a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre and the potential for new stories to emerge from its rich tapestry--highly recommended.
Wilson's foray into the realm of high fantasy with this novel is a notable addition to the extensive collection of works inspired by Arthurian legend. Despite the challenge of innovating within such a well-trodden theme, Wilson manages to blend familiar elements with unique twists, creating a narrative distinct from its predecessors. Ryan, initially depicted as an average teenager, finds himself thrust into a world of destiny and conflict, a journey he is reluctant to embrace. The novel playfully acknowledges its adherence to certain genre tropes, yet it confidently steps into uncharted territories, maintaining the reader's engagement with its inventive plot twists.
The core of Excalibur’s Pendragon lies in its exploration of destiny and the often-limited control we have over our own paths. The story's approach to this theme is fresh, rendering Ryan and the other characters as relatable and well-rounded. The narrative logic is consistent and well-structured within the book's universe. Wilson's narrative prowess shines particularly in the action-packed sequences, which escalate in intensity and stakes, revealing surprising alliances and betrayals. This dynamic storytelling ensures that the book remains a compelling read, particularly as it approaches its climax. The conclusion, while not a cliffhanger, leaves ample room for future exploration, inviting readers to anticipate further developments in this captivating narrative.
Excalibur’s Pendragon stands out as a creative and thrilling interpretation of Arthurian legend, blending the familiar with the innovative to craft a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Wilson's novel is a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre and the potential for new stories to emerge from its rich tapestry--highly recommended.
December 25, 2022
Excalibur's Pendragon: Book One of the Aethervard Legacy
By
Parker C Wilson
Rating:5/5
Description:
What empowers a legend? What turned a lowly boy into a warrior king? Who says that a new legend can’t be produced in the modern day?
How could a high school boy like Ryan Walker come to know or care about such things when his soul is broken? Even with the support of his father and friends, he lacks the fortitude to face his inner conflict, a struggle that has worn down his spirit for nearly a year. In Ryan’s eyes, the way forward is impossible.
But this pain doesn’t spare the troubled boy from the magic trials that await him. Somehow, he is burdened with powers too great for any human to handle, abilities that make him the target of ferocious demons that seek to taste his blood. Try as he might to escape this, Ryan is pulled toward an ancient legacy built upon the sentient sword Excalibur and its servants known as the Pendragons. The more he learns of this legacy, the more he is surrounded by mystic powers, a secret organization, characters from Arthurian lore, and enemies from the enchanted realm of Annwn.
These extraordinary forces push Ryan to his breaking point, but there is one more challenge that is harder than the rest. Some people are not who they seem, and their secrets could prove harmful when brought to light. This revelation could blow Ryan off course at a time when one deviation can cost him everything.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .The story has monsters, wizards, reluctant heroes and villains. It was entertaining. It also has a good message of having faith and hope when making decisions and choosing your own path. I will eagerly await the next book in this series and order it as soon as it comes out.
For complete read do order on @amazondotcom
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/Excaliburs-Pen...
wow! what a book! i am in love with the book
👉i just loved reading the book ...
happy reading!.
By
Parker C Wilson
Rating:5/5
Description:
What empowers a legend? What turned a lowly boy into a warrior king? Who says that a new legend can’t be produced in the modern day?
How could a high school boy like Ryan Walker come to know or care about such things when his soul is broken? Even with the support of his father and friends, he lacks the fortitude to face his inner conflict, a struggle that has worn down his spirit for nearly a year. In Ryan’s eyes, the way forward is impossible.
But this pain doesn’t spare the troubled boy from the magic trials that await him. Somehow, he is burdened with powers too great for any human to handle, abilities that make him the target of ferocious demons that seek to taste his blood. Try as he might to escape this, Ryan is pulled toward an ancient legacy built upon the sentient sword Excalibur and its servants known as the Pendragons. The more he learns of this legacy, the more he is surrounded by mystic powers, a secret organization, characters from Arthurian lore, and enemies from the enchanted realm of Annwn.
These extraordinary forces push Ryan to his breaking point, but there is one more challenge that is harder than the rest. Some people are not who they seem, and their secrets could prove harmful when brought to light. This revelation could blow Ryan off course at a time when one deviation can cost him everything.
Review:
👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.
👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style is appreciable .The story has monsters, wizards, reluctant heroes and villains. It was entertaining. It also has a good message of having faith and hope when making decisions and choosing your own path. I will eagerly await the next book in this series and order it as soon as it comes out.
For complete read do order on @amazondotcom
For book link:
https://www.amazon.com/Excaliburs-Pen...
wow! what a book! i am in love with the book
👉i just loved reading the book ...
happy reading!.
April 18, 2023
What a great read! It is a modern day hero quest. I got it for my younger cousin to read as a birthday present and he loved it. Then I picked it up and I loved it. This book is geared to high school students, but I loved it and couldn't put it down! It is fast-paced and engaging at the same time. The plot twists and turns don't feel forced or contrived as they do sometimes in young adult fantasy.
Parker's take on Arthurian fantasy makes it interesting for young and old alike. It was just a fun book to read. All the adventures sees the heroes as exploring a fine line between accepting destiny or embracing it, but there is Parker Wilson, making it more poignant than other adventure tales.
The author can really make his voice strong in the story. The characters were described so clearly that I could see the events happening in my head. This book is so much capable to make the reader forget the things around them. Parker Wilson has managed to fuse the emotions of real life and the adventure every kid would dream of. Ryan is incredibly real and likeable, and has been portrayed so realistically that I could almost feel as if he went to high school with me.
The whole time I read I was learning about mythology and it added a whole new level of fun to the story. Excalibur's Pendragon is a truly wonderful read full of nonstop action and excitement that'll make anyone beg for more. This book, in general terms, was awesome, and it needs more credit and light than it has gotten. I can't wait to read the next one!
Parker's take on Arthurian fantasy makes it interesting for young and old alike. It was just a fun book to read. All the adventures sees the heroes as exploring a fine line between accepting destiny or embracing it, but there is Parker Wilson, making it more poignant than other adventure tales.
The author can really make his voice strong in the story. The characters were described so clearly that I could see the events happening in my head. This book is so much capable to make the reader forget the things around them. Parker Wilson has managed to fuse the emotions of real life and the adventure every kid would dream of. Ryan is incredibly real and likeable, and has been portrayed so realistically that I could almost feel as if he went to high school with me.
The whole time I read I was learning about mythology and it added a whole new level of fun to the story. Excalibur's Pendragon is a truly wonderful read full of nonstop action and excitement that'll make anyone beg for more. This book, in general terms, was awesome, and it needs more credit and light than it has gotten. I can't wait to read the next one!
January 20, 2024
A Fun and Surprising Arthurian Retelling
Ryan Walker, a teenager, is the main character of this book. He is fighting depression and all the emotions swirling around the untimely loss of his mother. The teen’s quest back to a “normal “ life is derailed when he learns he is the descendant of the famous King Arthur.
Enjoyed reading the book and seeing how Ryan Walker manages to navigate through the ups and downs of his own emotions while coming to grips with the idea of being the heir to a kingdom.
This is high fantasy. There are swords and sorcery. There is magic and monsters between the ages, but not enough to satisfy the rich history of creatures found in the legendary world of King Arthur. Enjoyed the characters and the risks taken while developing alliances and surprising betrayals. Beware. Fun read.
Ryan Walker, a teenager, is the main character of this book. He is fighting depression and all the emotions swirling around the untimely loss of his mother. The teen’s quest back to a “normal “ life is derailed when he learns he is the descendant of the famous King Arthur.
Enjoyed reading the book and seeing how Ryan Walker manages to navigate through the ups and downs of his own emotions while coming to grips with the idea of being the heir to a kingdom.
This is high fantasy. There are swords and sorcery. There is magic and monsters between the ages, but not enough to satisfy the rich history of creatures found in the legendary world of King Arthur. Enjoyed the characters and the risks taken while developing alliances and surprising betrayals. Beware. Fun read.
July 20, 2024
I very much liked the characters and the storyline of this debut novel. However, the conversation felt forced at time and the language used was overly descriptive. At times, for me, this distracted from the story. I do believe it’s a good read though and plan to share it with my son. I will be on the lookout for more books in the series to keep following Ryan’s quest. Overall, I found it a good first novel. #goodreadsgiveawaywinner
September 16, 2024
I did not personally read the book but my 10 year old son did, and he finished it in a matter of two days. The following is his review:
While I was reading the book, it was really hard to put it down, it really engulfed me into the book. If you like fantasty and magic, you'll probably like this book. It is really cool because it features other things from legends and myths such as Camelot, Excalibur, etc. I really enjoyed the characters, especially Ryan and Kate. I recommend it a ton!
While I was reading the book, it was really hard to put it down, it really engulfed me into the book. If you like fantasty and magic, you'll probably like this book. It is really cool because it features other things from legends and myths such as Camelot, Excalibur, etc. I really enjoyed the characters, especially Ryan and Kate. I recommend it a ton!
August 9, 2024
A fresh take on a classic legend
This is a great read for tweens and teens, but as an adult, even I could appreciate it. The author did a great job of modernizing the Arthurian legends of Excalibur, while moving the setting into a more modern one and introducing a new hero. Combining the weight of Excalibur with an era of change in a teenager's life made for an engaging story with an effective plot and subplots.
This is a great read for tweens and teens, but as an adult, even I could appreciate it. The author did a great job of modernizing the Arthurian legends of Excalibur, while moving the setting into a more modern one and introducing a new hero. Combining the weight of Excalibur with an era of change in a teenager's life made for an engaging story with an effective plot and subplots.
November 23, 2024
An Epic Start to a Captivating Saga!
Excalibur's Pendragon is a mesmerizing start to the Aethervard Legacy! The rich world-building and compelling characters drew me in from the first page. The blend of magic and adventure kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next installment! Highly recommended for fantasy lovers!
Excalibur's Pendragon is a mesmerizing start to the Aethervard Legacy! The rich world-building and compelling characters drew me in from the first page. The blend of magic and adventure kept me on the edge of my seat. I can't wait for the next installment! Highly recommended for fantasy lovers!
April 15, 2023
A fun journey the whole way through. The characters are relatable and the story has hints of familiarity but is also unique and unpredictable. I enjoyed the book immensely.
November 30, 2025
4.5 stars
January 27, 2025
This is a very fun and fast paced book that is perfect for anyone looking for an action packed, original story. The main character teenagers actually acted like teenagers, and their reaction to the various action around them was realistic and well thought out. The action was intense (especially that GIGANTIC climax), and the story is unique, using familiar mythology but with a new, very cool way! The magic system is intriguing and I'm excited to see all of the characters grow in future installments, as the story is left wide open!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews