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E. A. Haltom writes what she likes to read, and sometimes that requires a lot of research and a sword. Preferably a 12th century English broadsword. Her debut novel, Gwendolyn's Sword, explores ancient ideas of heroism through the eyes of defiant underdogs and outcasts that turn the stereotypical "hero" on its head. She lives with her husband and kids in Texas, where she writes and indulges in reruns of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Doctor Who.
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
In Gwendolyn's Sword by E.A. Haltom, Gwendolyn might be the lady of the manor, but you wouldn't know it by looking at her. She prefers to wear the garb of her men-at-arms and she brandishes a sword as expertly as the best of them. When she has an audience with King Richard's mother, the famous Eleanor of Aquitaine, she takes the Queen by surprise when it becomes evident that Gwendolyn not only carries a sword, but she knows how to use it and she has done so.
Gwendolyn's adventure begins on the estate of her absent husband, Robert de Cardinham, who has followed King Richard on the Crusade. Men disguised as pilgrims, but obviously en route to support Prince John in his rebellion against the king, threaten Gwendolyn and her ladies. She takes action and wields the sword, resulting in the demise of two of the so-called pilgrims. The other two escape. Her ability to protect herself is now proven and it is time for the myth and legend to be revealed. Is the legend of King Arthur's sword, Caliburn, true? Will a direct descendant of King Arthur once again rise to wield this famous sword to save the kingdom? The legend and the myth take Gwendolyn and her faithful steward, William, to the Tower of London and the court of Queen Eleanor, and the plot thickens.
E.A. Haltom takes the reader back in time to the era of King Richard, Queen Eleanor and the troublesome Prince John. It is a time of strife in England, where brothers plot against brothers and no one is safe. The author gives us an historical adventure that interweaves the myths and legends of King Arthur and his powerful sword. This is an outstanding story of myth and legend and pure historical adventure. Well done!
