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Reviewed by Danita Dyess for Readers' Favorite
“The False Gwenevere” by Suzanne Shanken is a coming-of-age story. It’s a love story. It’s fiction at its best – well-developed characters like talking wolves, mean-spirited Bwaganods, Ellylldon faeries that kill humans and Mab, a benevolent queen with dual talents: Preparing a special wine that makes men appreciate the female experience and manipulating other people’s dreams. The main character, Gaenor, is a young woman on a quest to find her real father – not the one that married her mother and beat her twin sister. Unlike most women in Knucklas, she has a feminist mindset and battle training. She is a changeling. She understands the language of animals. She’s undaunted by Melwas, a cruel prince who wants to marry her and seize the Thirteen Treasures. But does Merlyn, her wizard, know the secret truth about the sisters? Why has he sent Lancelot, an undefeated warrior, to protect her?
“The False Gwenevere” was a great fantasy novel with careful attention to detail. Shanken’s impressive background in Ancient Religions and Arthurian legends was apparent. I loved the vivid descriptions of the scenery that incited all of your senses. I succumbed to the metaphysical elements of fantasy; I was transported to another time and place. Lancelot’s philosophical quotes sprinkled throughout the book was thought provoking and comical. Even the sex scenes were artistic. This was Shanken’s first book. I would enjoy reading more of her work. This book is highly recommended. Bravo!