This is the second book in this series and unfortunately, I did not read the first one, however, I had not difficulty following and enjoying this story. In Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend, the story opens with Britain at war. Guinevere is home anxiously awaiting news of her father, King Leodegrance, her betrothed, King Arthur and Cedwyn's father who have all gone to battle in the north. Guinevere is 12 and she makes decisions like a 12 year old. She and Cedwyn, her best friend, sneak away from the Castle, to visit the Wizards’ Stones. While at the stones, a goddess appears and gives them both messages that warn them of dangers in their future. It turns out that some villians/renegades are trying to kidnap Guinevere. With the help of Cedwyn, two young boys from the Abbey and some of the villagers, Guinevere and Cedwyn embark on an adventure to save the kingdom.

Author Cheryl Carpinello's plot is a quick, adventurous, story that starts off with a bang and does not slow down until the end. Reluctant readers, the target audience, will love the adventurous duo of Guinevere and Cedwyn who put themselves in danger, yet realize that they are the ones who need to save the day. Others will also enjoy this great story. Life in medieval times was no picnic and kids will learn just how brutal it could be. The descriptions of life, homes, food etc. as well as the relevant details about conditions back then will help young readers get a sense of the time the story is set. Cedwyn seems to be a bit of a leader and based on what the goddess said, he is destined for greater things as he protects his future queen. The themes in the story are pretty obvious yet could be used as discussion points such as, making the right decisions, putting others first, keeping your promises, loyalty and friendship, leadership and responsibility. I liked the questions for discussion at the end of the story. If this was done as a shared reading or read aloud, this could be used to explore the concepts shared as well as a jumping off point for further investigation into the Arthurian times. I definitely recommend this book for family, classroom or school libraries. One I am sure children from the age of 8 and up will enjoy.

Thank you, NetGalley, for giving me a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

At the Dawn of Legend is the second book in a trilogy about Guinevere and her friend Cedwyn. Although I haven't read the first book, it didn't hinder my enjoyment of this sequel. The plot is pretty straight-forward, fast-paced, and overall suitable for its target, middle grade audience. The book heavily points out the loyalty and love between the two friends, serving as a good role-model for young readers. Another thing I really liked are the Questions for Discussion and Enrichment found at the end of the novel, because not only do they serve to remind the reading group of major plot points or finer details, but they also prompt you to dig deeper, read up, and think on your own.



So why such a mediocre rating, then? Even though this is a fast and interesting read, I did have a couple of problems with it.

I love potatoes.
"Who cares?" you ask.

Boil 'em, mash 'em, put 'em in a stew - potatoes are great.
"True," you reluctantly agree.

Sometimes I wonder how non-American people survived without potatoes for so long, since the potato was introduced to the Europeans during the Colombian exchange, during the 16th century.
"I see..." you begin to realize something is terribly amiss.

So you see now how I, as a potato lover and know-er of general history, would be bothered by the fact that the author, writing a novel about the Arthurian times, makes reference to a strange tuber called by the French as pomme de terre, i.e. potatoes.

Another thing or two that didn't sit well with me is related to the plot itself, so read the spoilers at your own risk. Generally saying, this is a book about children making child-like decisions only for the author to be able to put her children protagonists in the spotlight, but alas, non-children readers may find themselves wanting to slap some sense into the children heroes. (Spoilers that specify the events in question may be found of my blog or goodreads review.)

And then, of course, is my personal preference, which I like to think hasn't made an impact on the rating, but I still want to mention how disappointed I am at the utter lack of Lancelot, and the prospect of a happy relationship between Guinevere and Arthur. Blergh

A beautiful story. This book, is like in the historical category. As it deals with the legendary King Arthur. I did not read the 1st in the trilogy, I believe.

Easy to understand language usage. It did not use very high vocabulary. The author used easy and simple language. As they are targeting young readers.

It is quiet enjoyable and suitable for everyone. You should try reading it. And especially, do get it for the younger ones. They do need to know about legendary characters from around the world.

I received a copy of this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

What a lovely tale! This book, which is the second in a trilogy is aimed at 9-15-year-olds and whilst reading this I tried to recall being in that age bracket and how I might have received this. The story is an adventure with the two friends Cedwyn and Guinevere in a whirlwind of adventure where the characters literally did not stay in the same place for long.

The language was good for the audience, the flow was pacey and the chapters a good length to be digestible for younger or less advanced readers. I thought the "talking points" at the end were a nice way to engage the reader afterwards if this was part of a YA group read, the character summaries are also helpful for any younger readers unfamiliar with the legend.

Overall I thought it was very enjoyable, the story although dark in places is age appropriate, I would recommend this to my 9 year stepson.