The plot of this book was inventive and imaginative and I enjoyed reading it. The only downside for me, was at times the dialogue between the characters fell a little flat. (Book Tour Reviewer Medley Wolfgram)
This is a fascinating fantasy novel that finds inspiration in other settings and combines these elements to form a new creation. I enjoyed spotting the nods to other fiction in the genre or figures from folklore. What appears to start as a romance novel seamlessly progresses into an adventure tale, putting challenges and dangers in the path of the protagonist. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for escapism in a world where there’s both unique and familiar elements at play. (Book Tour Reviewer Michelle Marshall)
What a great story! Based on a continuation of Arthurian legend the novel tracks the adventures of Janet, the royal princess and heir to the throne and Malcolm, her protector and master at arms, and the one to wield the Sword of Lions. The action is well-paced throughout with danger lurking at every step as the Dread Queen and Dread Knights seek to stop the princess as she seeks out Merlin to help remove a curse that threatens to destroy the kingdom. Great dialogue really enhances the depth of the story and compliments the intricate personalities of the key characters. A slightly bizarre collection of familiar characters in the final third of the book when Janet and her companions finally reach Merlin but then why not? The story itself brings together a number of familiar names and legends throughout the book and the more you read the more you will enjoy it. (Book Tour Reviewer Niall McKay)
Janet is the crown princess of Avanna, and she knows it. She is a powerful woman in every sense of the term, yet she is most vulnerable when it comes to her feelings– specifically about one man named Malcolm, her childhood friend and protector. Janet is the main protagonist, but so is Malcolm, and there is a good supporting cast: brave Cedric, impetuous Rowena, mischievous Andre, Janet’s diverse set of sisters, her just father, etc. A lot of the characters had unique personalities and traits, and their dialogue stood out too most of the time. Concerning Malcolm and Janet in particular, their love story is well developed for the most part; it just seemed like it took an eternity to flourish, and some of the back and forth felt repetitious after a while, and Janet gets a little saccharine every now and then in the end. However, the end payoff is satisfying and feels deserved. The dynamic between Cedric and Rowena is sound, and one roots for them too. The story moves at a brisk pace for the most part, and the stakes are well set. But it is a bit too slow or a bit too fast in some parts. The ending felt a bit rushed considering the stakes. Some scenes could use more in-depth description, both physical and emotional, but all in all, we get a feel for the world building. I like this unique twist on the classic Arthurian legend. This book left me wanting more. (Book Tour Reviewer Sophie Jupillat Posey)
Sword of Lions is a young adult tale that draws on heavily from elements of classic English and French literature and folklore, fusing them with the dramatic action style and flair of anime and interweaving both with a blend of modern cinematic sensibilities and dialogue with historical fantasy. The result is a well-written combination of action, drama and romance that should reward those who buy into its premise of a world that plays proxy to historical Britannia where magic abounds and timelines are blurred for the sake of mythological inclusivity. (Book Tour Reviewer Tim Marshall)
Princess Janet has grown up with her four younger sisters and best friend Malcolm, but she hasn’t seen him since he left five years ago to go to war. Unsure whether or not she will ever see him again, she denies her feelings for him as more than just a friend. Or so her sisters continually tease. With only seven days to save the kingdom, Janet’s small group have to reach Merlin’s Forest Tower as he is the only one who can release her and her family from a dark curse. The journey is fraught with danger, and it seems Fate is against them. This tale is a magic quest with a romantic theme, with characters who are totally different but work well for a common cause. A thoroughly enjoyable read, despite some errors which can be easily sorted out by the author. I’d have no qualms recommending this book once it has been edited. (Book Tour Reviewer Yvonne Marrs)
I’ve read a couple of novels recently that offer a different spin on the classic Arthurian Legend, and so whilst looking forward to reading Sword of Lions, I wasn’t quite sure whether it would be on similar lines to the previous books that I’ve enjoyed or if it could bring a unique perspective on the classic tale. For me, as a writer and reviewer, it has been interesting to see how each Author has been inspired by, and incorporated elements of the legend of King Arthur and Merlin into their stories, and the characters they’ve created from this. I have to say that Sword of Lions didn’t disappoint me as a reader, and I enjoyed TZ’s version just as much as the others. I loved the characters of Janet and Malcolm, the two main protagonists, and was truly invested in their story. This is a great first book in what promises to be a great series. And I must say that I am looking forward to seeing how the Author moves the story forwards, especially given the brief nod to other classic characters, that added another fascinating dimension to this book and complemented the story wonderfully. (Book Tour Reviewer Kirsty McKay)
We award 4 stars.
