Title: The Excalibur Curse (Camelot Rising #3)
Author: Kiersten White
Publisher: Delacourte Press
Publication date: December 7th, 2021
368 pages
3.5/5 stars
Goodreads Synopsis
While journeying north toward the Dark Queen, Guinevere falls into the hands of her enemies. Behind her are Lancelot, trapped on the other side of the magical barrier they created to protect Camelot, and Arthur, who has been led away from his kingdom, chasing after false promises. But the greatest danger isn’t what lies ahead of Guinevere—it’s what’s been buried inside her.
Vowing to unravel the truth of her past with or without Merlin’s help, Guinevere joins forces with the sorceress Morgana and her son, Mordred—and faces the confusing, forbidden feelings she still harbors for him. When Guinevere makes an agonizing discovery about who she is and how she came to be, she finds herself with an impossible choice: fix a terrible crime, or help prevent war.
Guinevere is determined to set things right, whatever the cost. To defeat a rising evil. To remake a kingdom. To undo the mistakes of the past…even if it means destroying herself.
Guinevere has been a changeling, a witch, a queen—but what does it mean to be just a girl?
The gripping conclusion to the acclaimed Arthurian fantasy trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White finds Guinevere questioning everything—friends and enemies, good and evil, and, most of all, herself.
Review
I was pretty sure going into this final book in the trilogy that I wouldn’t be satisfied with how it ended. And whereas I was right, I do respect the ending for what it was and it is different than I had expected. Following up to The Camelot Betrayal, we head back to Camelot with Guinevere, Mordred, and Arthur. There are several new characters that come into play, that make a big impact in the plot line. Also, this one dives even further into questioning the patriarchy and women’s role in society and I’m always here for that.
This was a fast read, as the first two were. There is a lot that goes on in the course of these books, a lot of scheming and politics. Most of the gang are separated at the beginning so there is a lot to happen to find their way back to each other. There were some surprises and plot twists which I always enjoy in finales
I won’t speak much on the romance because it would be huge spoilers. I wasn’t happy with the romantic ending, personally. Doesn’t mean others wouldn’t like it, but I really had my heart set on another conclusion. I am glad I finished the series and appreciate the opportunity to read it early. It just further shows me that King Arthur retellings aren’t my favorite, and that’s okay!
Thank you to Delacorte Press and Netgalley for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
Happy reading, folks!
Baltimore Bibliophile 