A lot of times I read the middle book of a trilogy and it is just filler. That is not the case with this book. There was more action and the author expanded on the characters more. I enjoyed reading the author's take on old characters, and I liked that Artie has his round table members ready to go. I did not like the end and it was too much of a cliff hanger for me. However since I had the final book ready to go it did not damage the characters or plot. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. ( )

A big Thank You to First Reads and Harper for sending me an advance copy of this book!

I don't usually read a lot of Middle Grade books, so this was a nice change of pace from my typical reading schedule and I have to say that I rather enjoyed it. The Seven Swords is the second book in the Otherworld Chronicles, which follows a reincarnated story of King Arthur. In this version Artie Kingfisher is a teenager who has abandoned his normal life and video games to travel to the Otherworld and take his rightful place as King. Before he can ascend the throne, Artie and his group of knights must collect the seven swords, which are scattered throughout the real world and the Otherworld, before the evil witch Morgaine can capture them and claim the throne for herself.

Now I love the King Arthur tale (even took a class on it in college) so I could be a little biased towards liking this book, but I definitely think there is something of value here both for young and old readers. For the young readers, they get an exciting story written in a language that is fun and at a pace that moves along nice and quick. For us older readers, we get a story that references the old King Arthur in a lot of interesting and unique ways, while still giving some action that is pretty compelling. My only caution would be that there is a bit of violence, blood, and maybe even a little death. I personally don't think this should stop anyone from picking up the book because it isn't overpowering and it is normally handled in a respectful manner, but now you know. ( )