Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend

by Cheryl Carpinello

At twelve years old, Guinevere is a typical girl except that she is a princess and, unknown to her at this time, slated to marry King Arthur. Like any preteen, she enjoys having a good time, but also is unable to refrain from getting into trouble and rebelling against her father's authority. And, even though Guinevere lives in the Middle Ages, she still has to deal with going to school. This includes being chastised by for not doing her homework. However, being a princess does create problems for her because at thirteen she is expected to leave childhood behind and assume the position of the Lady of the Castle. While she is sure that she is not ready to grow up, several adventures help guide her to accept her future and even to look forward to it.
Because of her preoccupation with growing up, Guinevere mistakenly shoots a wild boar with an arrow when she and seven-year-old Cedwyn are out hunting rabbits. The two scramble for their lives, and their reward is the discovery of a rabbit in one of their traps. This innocent rabbit creates problems when it gets loose in the kitchen. The rabbit's escape leads Guinevere on a race to redeem herself and puts her directly into the path of a charging knight on his steed, with disaster narrowly averted by Merlyn.
One night, Guinevere's father holds a giant feast in honor of King Arthur. Guinevere and Cedwyn marvel at the different knights, enjoy the feast and hear the storytelling by the bard. Guinevere is introduced to King Arthur for the first time experiences the first stirrings of love. After the feast Guinevere is treated to a surprise encounter with Merlyn, Nimue, and a special unicorn. Merlyn doesn't miss his chance to relate the tale of the unicorn to Guinevere's future as a queen.
Later at a meeting with her father and Merlyn, Guinevere discovers that she has been promised in marriage to King Arthur. Her response to that is an emphatic "No "; as she storms out of the room and literally trips over Cedwyn. Guinevere informs Cedwyn that she is running away, and he comes with her. On their runaway, Cedwyn learns that Guinevere is to marry King Arthur, and his excitement further enrages Guinevere. King Arthur is his idol, and one who can help him become a knight. Not understanding Guinevere's reluctance and anger, Cedwyn helps her to see that she is just like the princesses in the stories who become queens so that they may take care of their people and friends, like him. Guinevere returns home to make amends with her father. Grudgingly, with many misgivings, she accepts her future.
On Guinevere's thirteenth Birth Day, people from all over the kingdom travel to enjoy the festivities. The excitement of the day buries her doubts of her marriage. She is met with good wishes wherever she and Cedwyn go. They traipse through the tents and join in a rousing game of kickball before the evening feast begins. Merlyn's firework show ends with a magnificent display just for Guinevere highlighting her future.
One year after Guinevere's thirteenth Birth Day finds her and Cedwyn in the forest again, but this time Guinevere is teaching Cedwyn to shoot a bow and arrow. A final shot by Cedwyn is filled with disaster as his arrow finds a stray boar, and the two are in the same predicament as they were a year ago. However, by this time, Guinevere has accepted her future and even fallen in love with Arthur.
This historical novel of approximately 29,000 words Is written at the mid-fourth grade reading level. The dual purpose of this novel is to acquaint young readers with Guinevere and to entice reluctant readers.

Genres: Arthurian, Childrens, Fantasy

111 pages, Paperback

First published March 27, 2009

About the author

I’m a retired high school English teacher. Currently I'm on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Authors' League, the oldest writing organization in Colorado. I also belong to the RMC-SCWBI, the Historical Novel Society, the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers, and the Egyptian Study Society.

A devourer of books growing up, my profession introduced me to writings and authors from times long past. Through my studies and teaching, I fell in love with the Ancient and Medieval Worlds. Now, I hope to inspire young readers and those Young-at-Heart to read more through my Tales and Legends for Reluctant Readers set in these worlds—Ancient Egypt, Medieval Wales, and coming soon, the ancient world of Atlantis.

My husband and I love to travel. Because I'm also a retired airline employee, we were fortunate, in 2008, to spend three weeks in Egypt traveling by local train from one end of the country to the other. In 2014, we spent three weeks in the UK driving over 1700 miles through England, Wales, and Scotland.

Please visit me at Author Cheryl Carpinello (http://www.cherylcarpinello.com); Carpinello’s Writing Pages (carpinelloswritingpages.blogspot.com) where I interview children’s/MG/Tween/YA authors; my website for Educators/Parents: Beyond Today Educator (beyondtodayeducator.com), and The Quest Books (adventurequestbooks) where I’ve teamed up with Fiona Ingram from South Africa and Wendy Leighton-Porter of Abu Dhabi to enable readers to find our Ancient and Medieval quest books in one place.

Reviews

[Emily]

My favorite high school English teacher wrote this book, so I might be a bit biased! I really enjoyed it. Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend tells of Guinevere's life growing up before marrying Arthur and going to Camelot. I didn't care much for the pictures, but this is a nice kids addition to the Arthurian body of literature.

[Cheryl Carpinello]

I loved writing "Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend." Developing a picture of a young girl, too young to really know love, filled what I perceived as a missing part of the legend. My whole purpose in writing this was to introduce young readers (ages 8-12) to Guinevere, a girl with many of the same fears and concerns as her young readers.

[Todd Fonseca]

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend – Arthurian Fiction for Tweens

Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Author: Cheryl Carpinello
Format: Kindle, Paperback

Life as a young princess was perfect! Playing and hunting with her seven-year-old friend Cedwyn, Guinevere filled her days with joy and merriment. Unfortunately, much was set to change as her thirteenth birthday approached. She was expected, of course, to master Latin—a language few spoke. But it would be her duty as princess to liaise with the officials who would visit court. There were other responsibilities as well as she came of age and no matter how much she wanted to avoid them, the march of time would not yield to her wishes. Already overwhelmed with these changes, Guinevere learns of her arranged betrothal and her world collapses.

Cheryl Carpinello’s Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, is a unique introduction into Arthurian Legend focusing on the life of the young princess. It is perfect for tweens interested in this genre. While most young people aren’t royalty, they will likely relate with the emotions associated with wanting independence while struggling with the responsibility that comes with it.

I also enjoyed the simple line drawings introducing each chapter. They are wonderfully illustrated and provide additional texture to the novel. While the author provides and epilogue foretelling Guinevere’s future, I believe additional volumes continuing the story from these early years would make a wonderful series.

[Renee]

My daughter read and reviewed this book for our website, http://MotherDaughterBookReviews.com. Here's what we have to say (excerpts):

DAUGHTER SAYS:

What I liked and disliked about it:

I liked how, in the story, there was a twelve year girl playing with a seven year old boy because it shows that you can be friends with anyone and it doesn’t matter their gender or age. So, I liked the relationship between Guinevere and her friend Cedwyn and I liked how Cedwyn said “Guin’ver” – it was cute.

It was interesting to read how people in those times lived. It was weird that in medieval times, girls would get married so young. I wouldn’t want to get married so young [Mom: thank you, thank you, thank you!!].

I liked that there was magic in the book with Merlyn the wizard, the unicorns, and the dragon. I thought the story of the unicorns was sad because they have to die to save humans, but I understood (after my Mom explained it to me) that meeting the unicorn helped Guinevere decide that she has to meet her responsibilities as Lady of the kingdom and marry King Arthur.

I liked the pictures inside the book, but in some of the pictures she looks like she’s seven not twelve/thirteen.

I didn’t like that at the end in the section called “King Arthur Legend” it said that Merlyn was imprisoned by a lady named Nimue. It felt like a bad ending to the story and it made me sad.

My bottom line:

I loved, loved this book and I would recommend it to girls and maybe boys 8 years and older.

MOM SAYS:

What I liked and disliked about it:

While much of Arthurian legend focuses on the adult characters of King Arthur, Merlyn, Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, and the other knights of the round table, Cheryl Carpinello brings to life the story of Guinevere as a young girl prior to her role in the legendary love triangle involving herself, King Arthur, and Sir Lancelot. I love how Guinevere is depicted as strong and loyal yet contemplative. The reader is privy to Guinevere’s inner thoughts and turmoil concerning her decision to abandon her childish ways and embrace her responsibilities as daughter of a king and spokesperson and protector of her people. I thought she was an excellent role model for tween and teenage girls alike.

Carpinello introduces elements of legend and magic as a metaphor for the position that Guinevere finds herself in. When Guinevere follows a shadowy figure into the forest near the castle, she encounters a rarely sighted unicorn and learns of the purpose and fate of its kind. The plight of the unicorn, as well as the story of the red deer, touches Guinevere deeply and helps her to understand and accept her own destiny which was laid out for her at birth. Carpinello weaves these elements within the story so beautifully and lays the foundation for the lessons learned by Guinevere (and the reader!). That being said, some of these more complex nuances may be harder to grasp for younger children, although I think that younger children (like my son) would still enjoy the story.

At the end of the book, there are many “added” features such as a short Epilogue which ties this story to the more popular and well-known part of Arthurian legend occurring after the wedding of King Arthur and Guinevere. There is also a short Afterward which discusses written accounts of the Arthurian legend. Also useful in understanding terminology from medieval times is the glossary which provides definitions of words encountered in the text such as amphora (a two handled wine vessel), bratchet (a hunting dog), circlet (a type of small cake), and so on. There is also a section entitled King Arthur Legend which provides a succinct description of some of the highlights of King Arthur’s life. Finally, there are two sections Questions For Discussion and Enrichment and Additional Reading for those who want to explore the story and legend in more depth.

There are not very many illustrations. There are simple, pencil-drawn illustrations at the beginning of each chapter priming the reader for what will occur in the chapter. These were perfectly appropriate.

Of note, this is not the first middle grade book written about a young Guinevere. Robert D. San Souci has written a series of books centred on the lives of the main characters of Arthurian legend as youths including Young Guinevere, Young Merlin, Young Lancelot, and Young Arthur. Additionally, Jane Yolen has written some books focused on Merlin and King Arthur as youths. However, we have not read those so cannot really comment on how good those books are in comparison.

My bottom line:

I read this story to both my children aloud. From Chapter 1 all the way through to the Discussion Questions, my children were captivated by the story. The story is a nice balance between action, elements of magic and fantasy, and important life lessons, all woven within the historical context of medieval times. This was an enjoyable and educational read and I would recommend Guinevere to tween girls and boys.

* Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend was provided to us free-of-charge by the author in exchange for our honest opinion.*

[Jemima Pett]

Review to follow

[Fiona Ingram]

The Arthurian legends have timeless appeal and Cheryl Carpinello’s book Guinevere: On the Eve of a Legend is no exception. As an educator dedicated to encouraging reluctant readers, and having taught the legends of Arthur to high school classes for nearly 20 years, the author knows her stuff and her love of the legend shines from every page. Although much has been written about Arthur both as boy and king, and books have been devoted to the adult Guinevere and her ill-fated marriage to Arthur, this book comes as a surprise by introducing Guinevere as a young girl. In fact, our heroine is truly on the eve of a legend as the book centers around Guinevere’s 13th Birth Day, the turning point for her, when she crosses over from being a child to a young woman. We find Guinevere in the opening pages having the time of her life. With her friend, seven-year-old Cedwyn, she spends most of her time playing, roaming the castle grounds and occasionally the forest, hunting for rabbits or mythical creatures. But life has plans for her, as Guinevere finds out, and life’s plans, a combination of what her father and the wizard Merlyn have decided for her, do not sit well with this fiery-tempered and independent young girl. Upon hearing she will be betrothed to the young brave King Arthur and then married to him on her fifteenth Birth Day, Guinevere decides to run away from home. She is not interested in being married and is even less interested in becoming a queen. Her attempt at fleeing is short-lived, partly because Cedwyn’s legs are too short to do much running, partly because foraging for food in the wilds loses its appeal very quickly, and partly because Guinevere realizes that she must eventually grow up and grasp her destiny with both hands. In this coming-of-age story, her friend and advisor Merlyn is there to guide and instruct her. With magicality, tenderness, and spinning a sense of enchantment, Merlyn uses the teachings of legends and the forest to illustrate the lessons one must face in life. In this way Guinevere realizes that if she enjoyed being a princess so much, it is just a small step to enjoying being a queen. She also understands how much her father loves her and that her happiness is all he desires. Besides, she still has two whole years to enjoy before having to really grow up.

Cheryl Carpinello’s take on the Arthurian theme is unique and enchanting. Her descriptions of everyday life, food, behavior, weapons, and attitudes of the early Middle Ages display a wealth of research. Information is subtly introduced to enhance the story and does not overpower the reader. Her descriptions are rich, palpable, and appropriate to whatever scene one reads. The moment when the children see the unicorns is one of poignant magicality. The scene with the brachet, the rabbit, King Pellinore, and the hapless Painted Dragon is roaringly funny! Cheryl Carpinello has created a book along the lines of The Once and Future King, with the same kind of appealing humor and dry wit in her Merlyn. She has included an interesting glossary for young readers to fully enjoy their understanding of an historical environment; as well as Q&A for educators, and a recommended reading list. I look forward to reading Cheryl’s next book Young Knights of the Round Table: The King’s Ransom.

[Wayne Walker]

What was Guinevere like before she married King Arthur? In this book for middle graders based on Arthurian legend, author Cheryl Carpinello gives us a picture of twelve-year-old Guinevere, daughter of King Leodegrance. Though a princess living in a castle, she prefers playing and hunting in the surrounding forests with her seven-year-old friend Cedwyn to studying about matters of state and learning how to be a lady. Then as her thirteenth birthday approaches, it is time for her to be betrothed. Her father has chosen young King Arthur to be her husband, but she angrily refuses and even tries to run away, so the wizard Merlyn is called in to teach her about her responsibilities. What important lessons will Guinevere learn? And what will finally she decide?

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend is an interesting and well-written tale told in a way that will appeal to middle school aged readers, especially girls but boys too, who can relate to the idea of wanting independence yet struggling with the obligations that come with it. The euphemistic “darn it” is used a few times, and there are some references to drinking ale. But those who really like to read the Arthurian legends should enjoy this fun peek into Guinevere’s early life. In addition, it illustrates the important lesson that situations may arise in life when we must choose doing our duty rather than just doing what we want. A glossary, further information in the King Arthur legend, and some questions for discussion and enrichment in the back will increase the educational value of the book.

[Wendy]

A huge fan of Arthurian legend, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Written for Middle Grade readers, it's an original take on the subject, focusing on Guinevere's childhood before she met Arthur. Her tale makes for a charming story. Alongside a cast of well-drawn characters, the young Guinevere is portrayed in a sensitive and realistic way – a girl on the threshold of puberty who is reluctant to embrace her destiny. With her closest friend, Cedwyn, at her side, Guinevere wishes that the freedom of her tomboy days would never end, but she must eventually face reality and realise that resistance is futile. Headstrong and determined, the character of Guinevere is far from the stereotypical idea of a young princess about to be betrothed to one of the most famous kings of myth and legend. Her adventures often lead her into the most unladylike of scrapes, but now the time has come for her to leave all this behind.
This coming-of-age story is skilfully written by an author who really knows their target audience, pitching the level just right. It’s sure to appeal to young readers who are drawn to the fantasy world of Arthurian legend. I must mention, in particular, the scenes with the unicorns – I loved them! I’m looking forward to the next two books in this trilogy.

[Lisa Dawn]

When I saw there was a story about Guinvere with a unicorn on the title (Amazon edition), I was hoping for something similar to Princess Gwenevere and the Jewel Riders, my favorite cartoon. I realize that's a bit of a stretch because there are countless stories about Arthurian lore, but I wasn't expecting a book about a girl hunting rabbits where absolutely nothing else happened. I guess I'm not the target audience for this book because I'm not a "reluctant" reader, but I'm not sure how much even a child would get out of it. It has no real plot. Even the unicorn was just used as a metaphor and had no interaction with Gwen. It references her reluctance to marry the future King Arthur, but there is barely any interaction between the two of them. There was more time spent on her hunting rabbits for dinner than anything else, something I never would have expected from a princess book. I don't recommend this trilogy.

[Mik]

In Cheryl Carpinello's middle-grade novel, we meet Guinevere, a young princess, a few days before her thirteenth birthday. But wait-- this was not when a princess of England was the princess of all England, for no king yet ruled all the land. One day King Arthur would accomplish this feat, thought by many to be impossible. And one day, Guinevere would be the Queen of all of England. But for now, she'd rather play outside the castle with her young friend, Cedwyn.

An interesting read for the 8- to 14-year-old, this book skillfully integrates vocabulary and information about life in medieval Europe without verging on preachy or textbook-like. While it will most definitely interest the bookish child with an unquenchable thirst for history, it will also amuse those with a penchant for adventure-- or unicorns.

[Katrina]

It took me awhile to get to this book and now that I have finally done so, I wish I had done it sooner. A great little story of young Guinevere. Fabulous imagery, easy to get lost in her little world of unicorns and wizards. I took one star off for language (a few odd uses of the word "mayhaps" that I could have done without) and one star for lack of substance if some sort. Although the plot line was cute, it was lacking in cohesion. That being said, I would definitely read more by this author! Much more!

[Paula Ratcliffe]

While the story was a good one, I had trouble with the illustrations, they felt more like stick figures then illustrtations. The story is great it follows Guinevere and Cedwyn, and their future. I would have liked to know what happened to her friend in the end as we know Guinevere's fate. The both are small kids, doing things that get them into trouble. They also learn that they shouldn't just throw themselves into danger as they have important things to do in life.

[S. Willett]

Guinevere, the daughter of a king, lived a childhood filled with exploration and adventure. That is until she was almost thirteen and found she was betrothed to a grown man she hardly knew. This is a story of her childhood adventures and friendship with the wizard Merlyn who helps her come to grips with the reality of becoming a queen.

Great book to interest kids in the love of history and reading.

[ALM Molaison]

I've just had an enjoyable read.
I was probably caught when the author explained why she wrote the book--she had taught The Once and Future King for many years. But her students knew nothing of the character of Guinevere, except her betrayal of Arthur.
So her story begins the shaping of Guinevere’s character just before her thirteenth birthday. She has humor; she has a sense of adventure; and she has courage.
She reveals these character traits in a fun, fast-moving story.

[Susie]

An excellent book for young readers!

[Virginia]

to read

[Erin Al-Mehairi]

This review encompasses book one and book two.

Over the years, having children who are excessive readers, I’ve been asked to review all sorts of books for all ages in a multitude of genres. I’ve long been a fan of the middle readers, because I am always an advocate for putting books in front of readers at this age that will keep them interested in reading as life evolves and opens to other things around them, especially in this digital age. Currently, I still have an 11 year old Addie, who though she reads at a high school level (that’s what happens when books are like food in your household), she prefers to still read middle readers for enjoyment and content. She was more than thrilled to accept this reading assignment with me.

In looking through Cheryl Carpinello’s titles, the newest release, Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend is book two, and Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, was book one and published last year. It’s a series on Guinevere, but it’s housed inside a Tales and Legends series. We decided to review both for a better view of the author, but I’d certainly say you can most likely read any of her titles out of order, but as always, you’d gain better perspective on the series as a whole if you read both of the Guinevere books together. I’m almost certain, that like mine, your child will want to read these back to back and it’s probably best that way.

Of course my daughter was first drawn in, when getting them in the mail, to the cover of Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, because it had a horse and she loves horses, but the second cover on At the Dawn of Legend was beautiful too and I explained to her what it represented in history. With a female protagonist, of course they are fabulous books for young ladies, but they are also action-packed and suitable for boys as well, especially reluctant readers of either gender. Personally, I also think it’s important that young boys read books with strong young protagonists who are girls!

As soon as she started Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend, she was hooked and couldn’t wait for reading time before bed each night. I was happy that she liked tales of Arthurian legend as much as her dad and I! So she was ready to start the Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend almost immediately after. She enjoys fantasy, but they really have to hold her attention (or else she’s off reading mysteries in a cupcake shop) and these certainly did.

Guinevere is a capable, intelligent, and courageous young lady, all traits we wish our own daughters to be so she was a wonderful role model from reading. Cedwyn, the son of a knight, and her side kick, is wise, loyal, and curious. He becomes much more part of the story in At the Dawn of Legend, which is great again for both genders alike, as it give the young men a chivalrous young male to identify with and the young girls, a model for treatment from a male friend. Together, they show that men and women can do all things when combining their talents and personality traits!
From an historical avenue, and not just fantasy, I think it also accurately portrays the time period, giving a glimpse of history to readers as well. It’s not just high fantasy only. The author’s teaching background shines through in a myriad of ways so she hits all the right points of utilizing reading as an aspect of how to support children’s or pre-teen learning in these formative years. I can also see how her own passion for travels and history helps illuminate various time periods in history in her book. I would have ate up these books as a young lady myself.

Both books are marvelous for young readers that will have them sneaking the flashlight under their covers in bed at night or are a great set of books to read aloud to your children. Full of action, suspense, vivid descriptions, teachable lessons, and memorable characters, this is a set of books that will make a great gift to your child’s library.

Addison and I discussed much of what I wrote in this review together, but as her final thoughts, Addie said, “I love them. I think any young girl my age who likes adventure will be happy reading them. I didn’t want to put either of them down and would like to read more in the future.”
The ending was a cliff-hanger as well, so we anxiously await book three!

[Michael Thal]

Cheryl Carpinello has written a series of books for reluctant readers. In the series about Guinevere, from Arthurian legend, young readers meet a twelve-year-old princess confronted with her Birth Day and the responsibilities it represents. Her father, King Leodegrance, informs Guinevere that she will marry King Arthur of Camelot in two years.

Lady Guinevere is far from happy. In her 120-page novel, Carpinello shows readers life during medieval England and the adventures of the child who would one day become its queen. Through Guinevere’s point of view, we see her roam the castle grounds and nearby forest with best friend Cedwyn. The duo has a difficult time with a wounded boar, uncover mystical creatures, and hunt rabbits for the castle’s Cook.

Eventually, Guinevere must set aside childish things and accept the greater responsibilities her father is placing on her. To accomplish this, Carpinello spends a great deal of time developing her characters, especially Guinevere. Her prose brings history to life as readers get to know the future Queen of England during her childhood. We get insight into medieval culture where children, when they reach their teens, must set aside their games and learn the duties they must fulfill as young men and women. For Guinevere this includes learning to manage a castle, managing a kitchen, and learning Latin. For her friend Cedwyn, it will mean becoming a squire and eventually a knight.

The author does a good job at showing Guinevere’s stubbornness as she grapples with her fate. Along the way we meet Merlyn, King Arthur, a few unicorns, and the different roles people play in and around the castle.

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend is the first of three books in the Guinevere series that also includes Guinevere: At the Dawn of Legend and rounding out the trilogy is Guinevere: The Legend. Teachers teaching middle school children about the middle ages will find this supplementary reading an asset to their classroom curriculum. https://amzn.to/2Fjey9e

[K.C. Finn]

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend has taken everything I’ve ever absorbed about Arthurian legend and made me look at it from a whole new perspective, and in such a wonderful and engaging way. We often look at Guinevere as this beauteous queen and object of affection, but we don’t necessarily look at the historical difficulties of being a young woman at the time, essentially sold into marriage as a child. The idea of growing up really fast makes for a compelling and emotional storyline which is told in a tactful way that is still very appropriate for its middle grade audience, giving accuracy and real background to the life of a legendary figure who is often glossed over as a beauty and nothing more. The elegant and skilled narration allows us to get really close to our young heroine as she prepares for her duty in the adult world, but this is also a magical and imaginative tale with plenty of adventure and challenges set by the enigmatic Merlyn, another superbly well developed character. It’s a charming read for all the family, to be certain.

Also, from my perspective as a private tutor teaching English to speakers of other language and kids with reading difficulties, I really appreciate the attention to detail that author Cheryl Carpinello puts into making her lexical level and grammar use truly accessible for reluctant readers or those who might be a little behind their age bracket’s expected level. Whilst most authors have the full gamut of verbiage to use (and even then some of them can’t weave a tale well), Carpinello is strict about her level and still manages to create dynamic descriptions, beautiful emotive scenes and make accurate history come alive for her readership. It’s a masterclass in meaningful writing for children and knowing your craft inside out.

[Amy Ayan]

I've read a few Arthurian legends before, but this book has a magical touch that takes it to the next level.
'Gunievere: On the Eve of Legend' is an Arthurian middle-grade book about Lady Guinevere. A few days before her thirteenth birthday, there came a visit from King Leodegrance’s (Guinevere’s father’s) neighboring kings. But before leaving, King Arthur made the life-changing decision to marry Guinevere. However, as King Leodegrance agreed to the betrothal without her having a say in it, Guinevere made up her mind to leave that world of Arthur.
But will she ever come back? And what will happen to the engagement? You must read the book to find out!

If you look at the cover of this book, you’ll find a unicorn. This unicorn teaches Guinevere that the path of life might be ragged, but doing the right thing will always lead to victory. That’s the theme of this story—doing the right thing no matter what.
I particularly liked the illustrations in this book, especially the ones that included Merlyn. Merlyn always had a huge beard, which I found quite hilarious.

I recommend this book to anybody aged 7+ as the plot might be a little complex for younger children to understand.
I give this book 5/5 stars as it’s a great read and will keep anyone engaged.
P.S. I'm reading the next book in this series, and the review of that is coming soon!
Keep reading!!

[Clara]

Guinevere: On the Eve of Legend is more than a retelling, it’s a powerful coming-of-age story that brings new depth, heart, and humanity to one of history’s most misunderstood figures.
Cheryl Carpinello gives us a Guinevere who is not just destined for greatness, but one who must grow into it. Watching her navigate fear, duty, loyalty, and identity feels deeply personal and relatable, especially for young readers who are discovering their own inner strength.
What truly stood out to me was how accessible the storytelling is. The prose flows beautifully, the pacing keeps you turning pages, and the emotional moments land with real impact. Even reluctant readers will find themselves drawn into this world , not because it feels heavy or academic, but because it feels alive.
The blend of legend, character development, and emotional honesty makes this book a perfect introduction to Arthurian lore while still standing strong as its own story. You don’t need to know the legends beforehand to fall in love with Guinevere’s journey.
This is a book about courage before the crown, strength before the title, and hope before destiny. Highly recommended for young readers, educators, parents, and anyone who enjoys meaningful historical fantasy with heart.

[Becca Avila]

This starting book is okay... I defentlily like the two other books int he series after this one. But good book. I like Cedwyn.
And my book is actually signed by the aurthor.
I'm not sure about the unicorns. I'm not sure if I ike them or not.

[Fiction Vixens Blog]

I have read many books by Cheryl Carpinello and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them. Ms Carpinello has given us a story that as elements of legends and magic. that will suck books us in and will keep us there from start to finish ,and will leave us wanting more from this author. What I really like about Ms Carpinello is she writes such amazing story's for middle grades 8 to 14 years of age , and the way that she writes and how she gives us insight of each of the characters . This is the story of young Guinevere childhood, this story starts when Guinevere is 12 years old ,and she's the daughter of King Leodegrance 'Life as a young princess seems prefect, specially playing and hunting with her friend seven year old Cedwyn , Her day was filled with with such joy and so much merriment ,she soon would be 13 years old and soon much would change because of her birthday . Unfortunately she was a expected to master Latin ,which is a language into every few spoke. But that was one of Guinevere 's duty's as a princess to Liaise with the representative who would visit court.But she has other responsibilities as she be becomes of age,there's no use trying to avoid them ,time wouldn't yield to her wishes or dreams. Guinevere was so overwhelmed with all of the changes. She lived a childhood filled with exploration and adventures. That is until she founds out that she is betrothed to a grown man,that she hardly even know.This story of Guinevere adventures and the friendship she had with the wizard Merlyn is touching, and how Merlyn helped her to come to terms with becoming Queen. I could tell you more about this amazing story ,but that would spoil it for everyone reading it. I highly recommend that you read this awesome story ,you won't be disappointed. (Great gift for children 8 to 14 )

[Christina Leigh]

Guinevere is a young princess who doesn't want to grow up. She wants to stay young for as long as possible but on her 13th birthday--she must become what she fears most and with that fear comes choices that would make any child of thirteen or thirty quake in their books.

If you like stories based on King Arthur and fantasies based upon wizards, creatures of myth and books with excellent vivid imagery then this book is for you. It is clean and suitable for children aged 10 to 12 and even enjoyable for those with a young heart.

I enjoyed this book very much and found it to be quite clever.