"The Sword and the Sophomore" by B.P. Sweany, the first book in the American Martyr Trilogy, published by Th3rd World Studios and currently on tour with Rockstar Book Tours, is a modern twist on Arthurian legends that promises magic, mystery, and high school drama. This young adult fantasy novel intertwines the age-old tales of Camelot with the tumultuous life of a contemporary teenager, resulting in a unique yet somewhat uneven read. Don't miss out on the book giveaway and a special offer of 15% off the book or any item from Th3rd World Studios by using the link below!
Title: The Sword and the Sophomore
Authors: B.P. Sweany
Pub. Date: July 9, 2024
Publisher: Th3rd World Studios
Formats: Hardcover, eBook, audio
Pages: 297
About the book:
"Terrifically entertaining! ...a whirlpool of teenage hormones, high-school life and Arthurian magic. Hilarious and engaging!" — Diana Gabaldon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Outlander series
Arlynn Rosemary Banson is an atypical sixteen-year-old—the cool, popular outsider, effortlessly straddling the line between divas and dorks. Her forever young mother, Jennifer, is dedicated to making her life awkward by trying to be her friend. Her father, Alan, is a workaholic history professor who barely acknowledges his family’s existence. Her boyfriend, Benz, the quarterback and homecoming king, has just broken up with her, while her best friend, Joslin, bears reluctant witness to Rosemary’s romantic drama. But nothing prepares any of them for a Welsh foreign exchange student named Emrys Balin. Emrys looks like a teenager, but he seems to act much, much older.
Rosemary discovers she is part of the Lust Borne Tide, children born to the royal line of King Uther Pendragon who are imbued with mystical powers after being conceived in lust. Rosemary’s parents are Guinevere and Lancelot, banished by King Arthur to twenty-first century suburban America prior to Rosemary’s birth as punishment for their affair. Rosemary is the third in the Lust Borne line, after King Arthur and his son Mordred, the latter of whom has traveled to the future to continue the line of the Lust Born Tide by retrieving Rosemary and returning her to the late fifth century to conceive a child with her. But Rosemary has other plans—plans that involve training under Emrys and kicking Mordred’s butt, as long as it doesn’t interfere with prom or getting back with her boyfriend Benz.
Packed with action, emotion, and humor, The Sword and the Sophomore goes beyond the Camelot you know with an Arthurian tale fit for the modern world. Combining sword fights and epic quests with the real-life teenage issues of fitting in, sexual agency, and profound personal loss; this fresh take on the classic story of what it means to wield Excalibur and all the power it entails will make you rethink the power of legend.
My Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
B.P. Sweany’s The Sword and the Sophomore introduces us to Arlynn Rosemary Banson, a sixteen-year-old girl whose life is far from ordinary. Between her overbearing mother, workaholic father, and the recent heartbreak from her quarterback boyfriend, Rosemary navigates high school with her best friend Joslin. However, the arrival of Emrys Balin, a mysterious Welsh exchange student, turns her world upside down, revealing secrets about her heritage and destiny.
Plot Summary:
Rosemary Banson's life takes a dramatic turn when Emrys Balin enters her life. Initially perceived as a typical teenager, Emrys soon reveals his true identity as Merlin, bringing with him the revelation that Rosemary is a part of the Lust Borne Tide, descendants of King Uther Pendragon with mystical powers. Rosemary learns her parents are none other than Guinevere and Lancelot, exiled to modern-day America by King Arthur. As the third in the Lust Borne line, after Arthur and Mordred, Rosemary is destined for greatness but faces the sinister intentions of Mordred, who aims to use her to continue the line in the fifth century. With prom and teenage life still on her mind, Rosemary must train under Emrys and thwart Mordred’s plans.
Review:
The Sword and the Sophomore opens with a slow start, making the first chapter feel somewhat unnecessary. However, perseverance pays off as the story gains momentum after chapter three. Sweany’s writing captures the essence of a teenager’s life, juxtaposed with the grandeur of Arthurian lore, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tales.
Rosemary, as the protagonist, is a relatable mix of strength and vulnerability, embodying the struggles of teenage life while grappling with her newfound identity. Emrys, or Merlin, stands out as a fascinating character, blending wisdom with the challenges of adapting to the modern world. Despite some initial pacing issues, the narrative picks up, weaving a compelling tale of magic, destiny, and teenage angst.
As a huge fan of Camelot, I had high expectations, which the book met in some ways but fell short in others. While the modern twist is intriguing, it occasionally felt like it detracted from the mythic elements I cherished. Nevertheless, the character development, particularly Rosemary’s journey from a high school girl to a hero-in-training, is commendable.
Characters:
Rosemary Banson: A cool, popular outsider dealing with typical teenage drama and extraordinary revelations about her lineage.
Emrys Balin (Merlin): A wise yet youthful exchange student who becomes Rosemary’s mentor.
Jennifer and Alan Banson (Guinevere and Lancelot): Rosemary’s parents, whose past in Camelot profoundly impacts her present.
Benz and Joslin: Rosemary’s ex-boyfriend and best friend, adding layers to her high school experience.
What I Liked:
The unique blend of modern high school life with Arthurian legend.
Emrys Balin’s character as a refreshing take on Merlin.
The development of Rosemary’s character and her journey of self-discovery.
What I Didn’t Like:
The slow start and unnecessary first chapter.
Some elements of the modern setting felt at odds with the mythic storyline.
Conclusion:
The Sword and the Sophomore is a captivating read for those who enjoy a blend of contemporary and classic fantasy. While it may not be my favorite interpretation of Camelot, it offers a fresh and entertaining perspective. With its mix of magic, romance, and teenage drama, it’s easy to see why others might love this book.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
For fans of Arthurian legends and young adult fantasy, B.P. Sweany’s The Sword and the Sophomore is a worthy addition to your reading list, promising an adventurous ride through high school hallways and mystical realms alike.
Giveaway and Special Offer:
Enter the book giveaway for a chance to win a copy of The Sword and the Sophomore! Additionally, you can get 15% off the book or any item from Th3rd World Studios by using the link below. Don't miss out on this magical adventure and exclusive deal!
About B.P. Sweany:
A publishing industry veteran, B.P. Sweany has worked with many notable content creators, including Pierce Brown, Dean Koontz, Diana Gabaldon, Alice Walker, and Dolly Parton. "The Sword and the Sophomore" is the first in a projected trilogy.
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