Verve Stones

The Legend of Spoon #1

by James W. Aries, J Caleb Clark (Illustrator)

Ethan Spooner, aka Spoon, is a seemingly normal 14-year-old boy whose days used to be fairly normal, too. However, that all changes when he uncovers his father's hidden past.

Spoon is abruptly catapulted into a new world after a bizarre encounter with a faceless man. As he journeys through Altrea, his deceased father's birthplace, he discovers powers he never knew possible. He befriends members of a peacekeeping society. Together they battle an evil king who amplifies his power with human souls.

Spoon is drawn to a new life and a noble cause in Altrea. As he trains to join the fight, he learns that he's capable of far more than he ever knew possible. With a sword and the powers contained in verve stones, Spoon becomes a hero.

Friendship and betrayal, fortune and hardship, hope and loss-Spoon experiences it all. Join him as he begins his epic adventure in Verve Stones.

280 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2015

About the author

Growing up in Shelton, Washington, a small mill town, I never dreamed or desired to become a writer. My dad was a teacher and my mom worked for the forest services. My life revolved around getting into trouble with my best friends and picking on my little sister. I didn’t love school, but I didn’t hate it. That said, I did NOT enjoy reading. I never read books for fun, avoided reading for school, and never willingly ventured into a bookstore. Writing, however, was my true nemesis. I was horrible at spelling and any attempt at writing left me frustrated. I preferred spending my time on the basketball court and baseball diamond.

Two years at community college served to develop my passion toward sports, but did not alter my feelings toward reading and writing. I graduated and headed north to attend Western Washington University, excited to move closer to the slopes. My six roommates always talked about the amazing books they had read, and suddenly, I found myself jealous of their experiences in literature that I had deliberately missed out on. My spare time was slowly taken over by paperbacks. It was only a matter of time before I became addicted to hardcovers. I traveled with Frodo as he struggled with the ring, I went to school with Harry Potter as he grew into the chosen one, and I walked with Scout as she experienced hard life in the South.

Now, hundreds of books later, my wife, daughter, dog, and I reside in Olympia, Washington. I teach elementary school students.

Reviews

[Robin Puelma · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHH JUST finished Verve Stones and can't say enough good things about it. If you love how Tolkein created complex worlds, unique creatures, and intricate backstories, then you're going to love Verve Stones. Aries paints such a detailed picture of his world, drawing you in with his one-of-a-kind features (verve stones; brasa; moondoggies; Soul-Stealers; etc.), and keeps you turning the pages with a fast paced story line, detailed battle scenes, and strong characters. I specifically love the character arch of Spoon (and all his quirky, lovable details)--and the CLIFF HANGER at the end! Can't WAIT for the next book to come out!

[Amanda Kern · Rating 4 out of 5]

What going to happen next

I wanna cry. Great just to warn you. This books ends at a cliffhanger. I want to know what happens. I hope it comes out soon. It is a good story and pretty straightforward. It has all the qualities of a good fantasy.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book draws you into the story and has some nice elements of surprise. Can't wait for the next in series! Need to know what happens!

[Jack · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have to admit, this book surprised me. I was expecting any moment, to shout out in disgust how horrible it was. However, that moment never came. Despite the protagonist being like twelve, he holds his own weight. A bit slow in some areas, but it's got some pretty good action scenes, and extra points for the main character for not being a coward.

Overall, I liked it. Good stuff, and looking for more to come.

[Erik · Rating 4 out of 5]

interesting start, looking forward to the next book

[Muhammed · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's ok

Not very well written as far as plot development. I will move on to the next book just incase. Hopefully

[Michele Traugutt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amusing and charming

This book was written superbly for what it is, a quick read and a series that is not instantly captivating