A modern retelling of the Arthurian legend is the basis for Bliss & Blunder, a sharp and timely story by Victoria Gosling. Living in a Wiltshire town, Arthur is the billionaire owner of a tech company, who has employed his knights to work alongside him. His wife Gwen is a social influencer; their life appears to be full of wealth, friendship and beauty.
However, the past is about to connect to the present in the form of Morgan, a long-lost friend looking for revenge in a town that seems to be full of heartache and secrets. Gosling’s direct, illuminating prose highlights how much of the present mirrors the past: that human behaviour remains the same, albeit displayed in a different guise.
Gender, power and betrayal are key themes of Bliss & Blunder, with the empowerment of female friendships and the freedom it can allow in a male-dominated environment. Even though the novel is based on a popular myth, there’s a refreshing angle to this story. With granular detail, this well-researched work combines elements from the old story and brings them into contemporary focus in witty, original and illuminating fashion.
Bliss & Blunder, Victoria Gosling (Serpent’s Tail)
Price: £14.99. Info: here
words RHIANON HOLLEY