Be careful what you ask for -- it might be what you get

9. Gwenhwyfar: The White Spirit (An Arthurian Novel) by Mercedes Lackey


Though a complete work of fantasy concerning the protagonist's life, Lackey drew on an old Welsh poem that says King Arthur was in fact married to three different Guineveres in his time as High King. This story follows Gwen as she longs to become a warrior in her father's army rather than a Lady with the Blessing/Gift/Power as her mother (herself a powerful Lady) wishes. After one of her father's most trusted (female) warriors notices her gift with horses, Gwen gets all she ever hoped for -- training to be a warrior, and freedom to marry only if she wishes to. But through it all, the connivances of Gwen's little sister Gwenhwyfach (Little Gwen), Morgana, and Arthur's bastard son Medraut threathen everything in Arthur's kingdom, even Gwen's happiness as a warrior. Soon she finds herself on her way to Celliwig as Arthur's betrothed third Gwenhwyfar, and the intrigues thicken.

I was surprised to find myself really enjoying this book. When I read the synopsis, it seemed interesting, but I mainly decided to read it because I like Mercedes Lackey and I like the Arthurian legends. I guess I shouldn't have been surprised that it was well written, but I am surprised I enjoyed the tale. If you like fantasy and you're not opposed to an old favorite getting a "reboot," give this a try.