Once and Future

A new King Arthur has emerged, and she's on a mission to save the universe. Embracing one's true identity is never easy, but for Ari, the 42nd embodiment of King Arthur, the journey is even more complex. This epic adventure melds gender-defying royalty, sharp humor, and a cosmic battle for peace and equality. With an unusual, teenage Merlin and an old spacecraft, this rendition of the Arthurian tale is unlike anything you've seen before. Critics have praised the novel as a thrilling blend of mythology and speculative fiction, perfect for teens interested in action and genderqueer romances. Publishers Weekly commends it as a remarkable remix of classic legends. School Library Journal suggests it to fans of works by Meg Cabot and Robin McKinley, and Malinda Lo describes it as an exhilarating reimagining of the Arthurian saga. The book has been lauded for its sharp wit and refreshing focus on LGBTQIA characters as heroes, with humor and pointed political commentary enhancing the narrative. The authors, Amy Rose Capetta and Cori McCarthy, met while studying for MFAs in Writing for Children and Young Adults. Together, they co-created Rainbow Boxes in 2015, an initiative that funded the distribution of inclusive fiction to shelters and libraries across the U.S. They also host an annual retreat for LGBTQIA writers. Capetta and McCarthy live in Vermont with their son, Maverick.