New Review: Susan King’s THE SWAN MAIDEN - Impressive Second in the Medieval Celtic Series

Set in Scotland and England in the early 14th century, this is the tale of Sir Gawain Avenel, a noble knight, who is half Scot, born Gabhan McDuff. When his father was killed and their castle burned, his English mother took him to England where his stepfather, a nobleman, raised him.

King masterfully weaves history, legend and great storytelling into a wonderful medieval romance. Sir Gawain is the knight who aided Jamie Lindsay and Isobel Seton in LAIRD OF THE WIND.

Though raised in England, Sir Gawain never forgot his Scottish roots. His gallantry (he has a propensity to come to the aid of those in need) leads him to rescue the proud Scottish beauty, Juliana Lindsay ("the Swan Maiden") when her castle is attacked. Years later, he comes to her rescue again at King Edward's court when he seeks to embarrass her by challenging his knights to tame “the Swan.”

Each must come to terms with their true nature and loyalty as they also deal with their passion and love for each other.

Definitely worth the read.

The series:

THE SWORD MAIDEN
THE SWAN MAIDEN
THE SWORD MAIDEN
LAIRD OF THE WIND