The Other Merlin is, as the cover copy described, a retelling (or reimagining) in the vein of something like Mackenzie Lee's A Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue, or the books My Lady Jane, My Plain Jane (etc). These types of books take medieval, or historical settings and tell stories with familiar characters who have more modern sensibilities and voices. I generally think books like this one are fun and enjoyable, but do depend on readers connecting to the voice. I think this story was fun as a concept, but I didn't connect to Emry's voice as much as I wanted to. There have been a lot of King Arthur style retellings lately, and I do think this one does a good job of differentiating itself. That being said, it unfortunately wasn't my favorite. I am sure readers will love the tropes in the story. I was able to read and ARC of this book, prior to publication.