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The Four Treasures #1
The Stone of Destiny
Begin the journey; discover your destiny...
Set against a backdrop of Scottish myths and legends, follow the
epic quest by a changeling, a selkie and a prince to find an ancient
and powerful object, and save the kingdom.
Ailsa doesn’t believe in faerie tales, only the monsters in them. But, with the
mark on her face, most people consider her one of them—a changeling.
Her secluded life shifts when she rescues two selkies from bloodthirsty
raiders. Now she must act as their guard as they travel to the capital and
then, with the help of the Prince of Eilanmor, journey north to find the
Stone of Destiny - the only object protecting them all from the evil faerie
queen.
But all her life a malignant creature has stalked her through the forest.
Can Ailsa find the Stone of Destiny before something wicked finds her?
Set against a backdrop of Scottish myths and legends, follow the
epic quest by a changeling, a selkie and a prince to find an ancient
and powerful object, and save the kingdom.
Ailsa doesn’t believe in faerie tales, only the monsters in them. But, with the
mark on her face, most people consider her one of them—a changeling.
Her secluded life shifts when she rescues two selkies from bloodthirsty
raiders. Now she must act as their guard as they travel to the capital and
then, with the help of the Prince of Eilanmor, journey north to find the
Stone of Destiny - the only object protecting them all from the evil faerie
queen.
But all her life a malignant creature has stalked her through the forest.
Can Ailsa find the Stone of Destiny before something wicked finds her?
300 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 27, 2020
This is a really fun, light fantasy story based around Scottish mythology. I enjoyed all of the characters and thought they was written really well. The world felt realistic but had lots of fun fantasy elements included which always kept things interesting. If I were to take a guess, the world feels like it is set around the 1600s.
I also really enjoyed the dynamics between the different characters and I'm looking forward to seeing how their relationships develop in the future. Any fans of the 'found family' trope will enjoy this book! There was also well executed gay representation which was nice to see and I'm sure lots of readers will appreciate.
The ending has made me very intrigued for book two and I will definitely be picking it up in the future!
I also really enjoyed the dynamics between the different characters and I'm looking forward to seeing how their relationships develop in the future. Any fans of the 'found family' trope will enjoy this book! There was also well executed gay representation which was nice to see and I'm sure lots of readers will appreciate.
The ending has made me very intrigued for book two and I will definitely be picking it up in the future!
September 3, 2021
Re-reading this series in anticipation for book three coming out in October. Stand by everything I said in my original review which can be found here. A great Scottish-inspired fantasy series that I would recommend to anyone!
October 3, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the Publisher.
Fresh, captivating, and brimming with adventure, THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan is the perfect start to this new fantasy series, which will appeal to young adults and adults alike.
Ailsa knows what it's like to be alone. Shunned as a changeling by her village ever since her mother died, Ailsa has had to fend for herself and grow up quickly. Now on a secluded bay, she forages for whatever she can and is able to defend herself if the need arises. She finds peace in the solitude and has learned to become content with her own company. But when a woman's cry pierces the silence, Ailsa comes to her aid which will set her on a path of adventure, danger, and so much more. With magic, selfies, demons, and more, Ailsa must learn her own strength and protect those that she has come to care for before darkness takes over the land forever.
Exciting from the very beginning, THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan is the kind of story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and leaves you wanting more. Ailsa is a character that you will want to protect and see succeed at every turn because there is something so vulnerable about her even though she is as tough as any warrior. I became invested in Ailsa and longed for more for her than what she had come to accept. The setting is very detailed and I fully enjoyed this new land of myth and legends as it came to life in front of my eyes.
There are secrets and subterfuge, friendship and lies, and so much more in THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan which makes it the perfect addition to any fantasy and YA fans bookshelf. I look forward to reading book two!
Fresh, captivating, and brimming with adventure, THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan is the perfect start to this new fantasy series, which will appeal to young adults and adults alike.
Ailsa knows what it's like to be alone. Shunned as a changeling by her village ever since her mother died, Ailsa has had to fend for herself and grow up quickly. Now on a secluded bay, she forages for whatever she can and is able to defend herself if the need arises. She finds peace in the solitude and has learned to become content with her own company. But when a woman's cry pierces the silence, Ailsa comes to her aid which will set her on a path of adventure, danger, and so much more. With magic, selfies, demons, and more, Ailsa must learn her own strength and protect those that she has come to care for before darkness takes over the land forever.
Exciting from the very beginning, THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan is the kind of story that keeps you hooked from beginning to end, and leaves you wanting more. Ailsa is a character that you will want to protect and see succeed at every turn because there is something so vulnerable about her even though she is as tough as any warrior. I became invested in Ailsa and longed for more for her than what she had come to accept. The setting is very detailed and I fully enjoyed this new land of myth and legends as it came to life in front of my eyes.
There are secrets and subterfuge, friendship and lies, and so much more in THE STONE OF DESTINY by Caroline Logan which makes it the perfect addition to any fantasy and YA fans bookshelf. I look forward to reading book two!
October 13, 2019
I read a lot of SF and Fantasy, one of my bugbears is that authors get so lost in creating their world they forget about the characters and the story, another is when they get so fixed on their story they take for granted that you understand the world they've built.
Caroline Logan appears to have found that perfect middle ground that lets the world unfold as the characters build. I look forward to the next instalment.
Caroline Logan appears to have found that perfect middle ground that lets the world unfold as the characters build. I look forward to the next instalment.
May 6, 2021
Such a fun fantasy story based around Scottish folktales and mythology.
The characters are great and so well developed and I loved their interactions and relationships. The world is so interesting too and I'm so intrigued to continue on with the series. I had such an amazing time reading this book by a fellow Scot and loved the inclusion of selkies and changelings!
The characters are great and so well developed and I loved their interactions and relationships. The world is so interesting too and I'm so intrigued to continue on with the series. I had such an amazing time reading this book by a fellow Scot and loved the inclusion of selkies and changelings!
November 23, 2019
A fabulous magical YA fantasy. I found myself completely engrossed in Caroline Logan's beautifully realised world of selkies and evil faeries, as changeling Ailsa embarks on an epic quest to find the Stone of Destiny. A brilliant, face paced adventure, and I cannot wait to read the sequel.
February 13, 2022
Absolutely fantastic book
October 26, 2022
A great indie book that I'd been meaning to get to and I'm really glad I did because I thoroughly enjoyed this. I loved the characters a lot and the plot was fun. There were parts that dipped a little in terms of plot building, breaks that I don't think were realistic but I enjoyed them nevertheless. I am mad at the cliffhanger though because I don't know when I'll be able to get to the sequel based on my current TBR demands but I know I will be reading it.
January 9, 2022
I must be reading a different book from other reviewers. I got just over halfway through and had to give up… just page after page of inane, anachronistic (either go with medieval “what say you, my lord” speak or don’t, just do NOT mix and match) “banter” between the main characters, very little drama or action and what there was felt hugely unconvincing …mostly thanks to the inane banter which took away from any sense of tension. Now, I know this is a YA fantasy, but I have read many other YA fantasy books that are far better than this. So it being YA is no excuse for it being this… banal. That said, it was recommended to me by a teen reader, who loved it. And given other reviews, readers are obviously getting something out of it that I did not. It’s an easy read, I’ll give it that. I may recommend it to younger teens who don’t want anything too challenging. If it didn’t have so much of the ubiquitous (in YA) angsty romance overtones, it would be perfect for tweens.
July 17, 2022
Loved the use of both Gaelic and Scots through this book.
April 10, 2023
This book was definitely not terrible but it was eternally disappointing. If you don't have more than the barest surface level interest in Scottish mythology and enjoy typical YA storytelling conventions then feel free to disregard this review, you will probably like this book just fine.
I picked up this book because the blurb talked about selkies - which are criminally underrepresented in fantasy - and also the main character had the same name as me which I have never encountered before so my interest was piqued. The disappointment began quickly - our main character Ailsa has a birthmark which according to this book makes her a changeling, which is not how changelings actually work. Then the selkies arrived and they were more like witches and wizards that just so happen to sometimes turn into seals (the author decided to get rid of the selkies having removable coats that allow them to shapeshift and then tied herself in knots later in the book and replaced it with a magic ring that has basically the same purpose). There is a kelpie but it was just a hot guy with really uncomfortable seduction powers? The stone of destiny that the book is named after (an actual rock that has been used in the coronation of various monarchs in the UK and has an incredibly messy history) is now a little sparkly geode with magic powers. It feels rather cheep how Scottish mythology is used to make the book stand out and yet anything actually different is carefully minimised or changed to make it more sexy.
To make matters worse I really didn’t like the characters. Most of them are a whole lot of nothing and Ailsa in particular was just not a fun character to read about. She is presented as a ‘strong independent woman’ and yet her actions are more in line with an overcooked noodle. I spent a lot of this book just wishing she'd get it together to be honest as the author was clearly aiming for 'traumatised teenager that doesn't know how to talk to others' and but instead she just comes across as needlessly nasty and uncommunicative. There is also a kind of love triangle which by the end of the book looked headed into poly territory. Usually I would be pleased with this as I am sick of love triangles but Ailsa is so unlikable I couldn't wrap my head around two whole people being attracted to her.
The plot is impressively uninteresting. The main story just kind of meanders about and then ends 50 pages before the actual end. The last fifty pages consists of the most boring kidnapping plot I've ever read. Which is saying something as I usually really enjoy kidnapping storylines. Usually I would be on the edge of my seat but this felt just so unnecessary and a cheap twist. The end of the book contained several plot twists that weren't very good. I won't detail exactly what the other ones were in case you still plan to read the book but it felt very counterproductive to what had already been established about Ailsa.
December 11, 2019
Well I have found another book that has definitely slipped into my top ten books of 2019. The Stone Of Destiny ticked all my boxes and has left me wanting more.
I was so looking forward to this book after reading the description because it’s not often I get the chance to read fantasy books featuring Scottish myths and legends. So it’s safe to say that I did have some high expectations before I started and luckily this book totally surpassed them.
On occasion with young adult books I find that whilst they are written within the YA bracket they are definitely aimed toward older readers, but this book has its audience in mind and is for both the younger readers and those of us who still enjoy YA that are out-with its age range. The writing manages to paint and capture the magical setting and pull us into the adventure whilst remaining light and easy. It’s the kind of book that will have you saying ‘just one more chapter’, I was so caught up in the journey that the characters take and the action that I didn’t really want to come back to the real world.
Ailsa is a character you can really get behind, she’s had a pretty tough childhood and has had to learn to look out for herself. She is a strong character made even better by Iona and Harris; Selkies who enlist her help as a bodyguard; they bring her out of her shell a bit and show the softer and more playful side to her.
The characters were all very unique in this book, they all had their own motivations and clear voices and I liked that no matter what I found out about them they were still true to themselves. I was happy that there were lots of strong female characters in the book, Iona was a force of positivity to be reckoned with and I loved that even though they were so different that she and Ailsa got on brilliantly.
Harris definitely kept me guessing, he had so many sides to his personality, and I enjoyed the way he kept winding Ailsa up. Adding Angus to the mix gave the perfect dynamic to the journey and it really cemented the bond that you start to see developing between all the characters.
I loved the journey to find the Stone, it wasn’t all plain sailing and it was good that it pushed the characters. There were so many mythical creatures that they came across, I was loving it, even though they mostly were quite ruthless and frightening I still loved reading about them.
The only downside to this book is that I’m going to have to wait until I can find out where the story will go next. I will be wholeheartedly looking forward to the next book that’s for sure.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
I was so looking forward to this book after reading the description because it’s not often I get the chance to read fantasy books featuring Scottish myths and legends. So it’s safe to say that I did have some high expectations before I started and luckily this book totally surpassed them.
On occasion with young adult books I find that whilst they are written within the YA bracket they are definitely aimed toward older readers, but this book has its audience in mind and is for both the younger readers and those of us who still enjoy YA that are out-with its age range. The writing manages to paint and capture the magical setting and pull us into the adventure whilst remaining light and easy. It’s the kind of book that will have you saying ‘just one more chapter’, I was so caught up in the journey that the characters take and the action that I didn’t really want to come back to the real world.
Ailsa is a character you can really get behind, she’s had a pretty tough childhood and has had to learn to look out for herself. She is a strong character made even better by Iona and Harris; Selkies who enlist her help as a bodyguard; they bring her out of her shell a bit and show the softer and more playful side to her.
The characters were all very unique in this book, they all had their own motivations and clear voices and I liked that no matter what I found out about them they were still true to themselves. I was happy that there were lots of strong female characters in the book, Iona was a force of positivity to be reckoned with and I loved that even though they were so different that she and Ailsa got on brilliantly.
Harris definitely kept me guessing, he had so many sides to his personality, and I enjoyed the way he kept winding Ailsa up. Adding Angus to the mix gave the perfect dynamic to the journey and it really cemented the bond that you start to see developing between all the characters.
I loved the journey to find the Stone, it wasn’t all plain sailing and it was good that it pushed the characters. There were so many mythical creatures that they came across, I was loving it, even though they mostly were quite ruthless and frightening I still loved reading about them.
The only downside to this book is that I’m going to have to wait until I can find out where the story will go next. I will be wholeheartedly looking forward to the next book that’s for sure.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
October 7, 2019
Ailsa is a 19 year old Hermit. Living a life of self-imposed isolation in a beach cave 5 years after her mother died, Ailsa has come to terms with her loneliness and convinced herself that she’s happy. Then she saves two selkies from ravagers and her life is flip turned upside down leading her to discover more about her own history.
In a world where Fae run rampant and the imprisonment of the evil faerie queen Nicnevan is perilous at best, Ailsa finds herself thrown into a quest to secure the throne for the royal family and protect her new friends from the powers that want to destroy them.
Logan has created a wonderful fantasy world, heavily influenced by Scottish Culture – kilts, bagpipes and thick Scottish accents abound, the Selkies themselves are named after Scottish Islands which don’t exist in this realm – and an engagingly grumpy heroine whose heavily foreshadowed destiny is much greater than she’s initially willing to accept.
There are a couple of minor problems, such as a relatively confusing backstory timeline that seems to give different time stamps every time it’s brought up and Harris, the younger of the two selkies that Ailsa rescues. His arrogance is more irritating that endearing, however there are enough hints that Harris’ main problem is immaturity that I’m hopeful he will grow out of his less likeable character traits and vindicate Ailsa’s faith in him.
But these are quibbles, and there are many many joys in this tale. The themes of family, both blood and found, which run through this are wonderful; there are themes of mental health and trauma; bullying and superstition and things not always being what they seem – be that monsters or people’s intentions. Groundwork is laid for what promises to be an epic multi-part tale. There are intriguing hints that Nicnevan may not be entirely bad, but rather wronged and misunderstood and perhaps even empathetic – I’m thinking Angelina Jolie’s Maleficient.
The initial characterisation and scene setting is sedate and then about half way through the story picks up a headspinning pace and revelations come thick and fast. Certainly enough is laid out to keep you excited for the next instalment and see what’s next for Ailsa. A real joy of a new Fantasy series. (AND IT HAS A MAP…and I LOVE MAPS!)
Thanks to Cranachan Books for letting me review this as part of their Blog Tour, and thanks to Caroline Logan for writing it!
In a world where Fae run rampant and the imprisonment of the evil faerie queen Nicnevan is perilous at best, Ailsa finds herself thrown into a quest to secure the throne for the royal family and protect her new friends from the powers that want to destroy them.
Logan has created a wonderful fantasy world, heavily influenced by Scottish Culture – kilts, bagpipes and thick Scottish accents abound, the Selkies themselves are named after Scottish Islands which don’t exist in this realm – and an engagingly grumpy heroine whose heavily foreshadowed destiny is much greater than she’s initially willing to accept.
There are a couple of minor problems, such as a relatively confusing backstory timeline that seems to give different time stamps every time it’s brought up and Harris, the younger of the two selkies that Ailsa rescues. His arrogance is more irritating that endearing, however there are enough hints that Harris’ main problem is immaturity that I’m hopeful he will grow out of his less likeable character traits and vindicate Ailsa’s faith in him.
But these are quibbles, and there are many many joys in this tale. The themes of family, both blood and found, which run through this are wonderful; there are themes of mental health and trauma; bullying and superstition and things not always being what they seem – be that monsters or people’s intentions. Groundwork is laid for what promises to be an epic multi-part tale. There are intriguing hints that Nicnevan may not be entirely bad, but rather wronged and misunderstood and perhaps even empathetic – I’m thinking Angelina Jolie’s Maleficient.
The initial characterisation and scene setting is sedate and then about half way through the story picks up a headspinning pace and revelations come thick and fast. Certainly enough is laid out to keep you excited for the next instalment and see what’s next for Ailsa. A real joy of a new Fantasy series. (AND IT HAS A MAP…and I LOVE MAPS!)
Thanks to Cranachan Books for letting me review this as part of their Blog Tour, and thanks to Caroline Logan for writing it!
February 27, 2022
This is a YA fantasy which utilise Scottish folk lore, with this first book focusing on Selkies. Mystical folk who can turn between seal and human at will. Our main character, however, is a 19 year old teen who acts like a grumpy old grandpa and it is my favourite thing.
I adored this book, so so much. Ailsa rescues two selkies, brother and sister, from an attack of bloodthirsty raiders. From then onwards a bond is formed between the trio, and she travels with them as a guard to the capital city where the Prince has a request of the selkies.
The characters in this book? They're utterly fantastic. So so so so good. Our main character Ailsa is so grumpy and so lovable and so strong! And our selkies? They're mystical and magical and ethereal, but also so down to earth and relatable!
And the plot? Of course I don't want to tell you too much cause Spoilers but I was so invested in the travelling that the groups did across this fantastical Scottish landscape. We got to see so much of the worldbuilding by Caroline Logan which is done so beautifully and really plays into the beautiful, wet, reality that is Scotland.
Trigger warnings: child and baby death mentioned, violence resulting in injury and death, minor body horror
If you enjoy fantasy books I really do recommend picking this one up. It's a YA book, aimed at teens, but it can definitely be enjoyed by an older audience looking for a less graphic fantasy than is prevalent in the adult sphere (don't get me wrong, I love both!) and I'm looking forward to more of the same in book two!
I adored this book, so so much. Ailsa rescues two selkies, brother and sister, from an attack of bloodthirsty raiders. From then onwards a bond is formed between the trio, and she travels with them as a guard to the capital city where the Prince has a request of the selkies.
The characters in this book? They're utterly fantastic. So so so so good. Our main character Ailsa is so grumpy and so lovable and so strong! And our selkies? They're mystical and magical and ethereal, but also so down to earth and relatable!
And the plot? Of course I don't want to tell you too much cause Spoilers but I was so invested in the travelling that the groups did across this fantastical Scottish landscape. We got to see so much of the worldbuilding by Caroline Logan which is done so beautifully and really plays into the beautiful, wet, reality that is Scotland.
Trigger warnings: child and baby death mentioned, violence resulting in injury and death, minor body horror
If you enjoy fantasy books I really do recommend picking this one up. It's a YA book, aimed at teens, but it can definitely be enjoyed by an older audience looking for a less graphic fantasy than is prevalent in the adult sphere (don't get me wrong, I love both!) and I'm looking forward to more of the same in book two!
October 1, 2019
Awesome to read a book from a local author!! Bravo Caroline Logan!!
Once I started reading The Stone of Destiny, I couldn't stop! It's a quest tale, featuring Ailsa, a changeling, selkies Iona & Harris & Angus, second in line for the throne. The selkies employ Ailsa as a bodyguard to journey with them to Dunrigh & from there she journey with Harris & Angus seeking the Stone of Destiny. It is a good old adventure tale with a number of dangers along the way. I really enjoyed that the story did not just end when the stone was found - there's more to the tale!
I really enjoyed all the characters - particularly Ailsa's strong attitude & Angus was a good humourous addition. Iona was also a great character & I was a little sad she didn't join the others on the quest.
The setting was fantastic (plan to get myself a paper copy so I can properly study the map - kindle does not do justice!) Totally reminded me of the Scottish Highlands with a lot more myth and magic thrown in!
The only part that didn't quite make sense to me was the ceilidh - time sensitive quest, but let's stop for drink & dancing... But to be honest thinking of those I know in this area I can actually see most people dropping any urgency for a good ceilidh!
I was also not a fan of the will they, won't they between Ailsa & Harris, although this relationship did really enhance the ending! I hope the next installment goes into more detail of the history & mythology of Eilanmor - there really is huge potential for a wonderful fantasy world!
Once I started reading The Stone of Destiny, I couldn't stop! It's a quest tale, featuring Ailsa, a changeling, selkies Iona & Harris & Angus, second in line for the throne. The selkies employ Ailsa as a bodyguard to journey with them to Dunrigh & from there she journey with Harris & Angus seeking the Stone of Destiny. It is a good old adventure tale with a number of dangers along the way. I really enjoyed that the story did not just end when the stone was found - there's more to the tale!
I really enjoyed all the characters - particularly Ailsa's strong attitude & Angus was a good humourous addition. Iona was also a great character & I was a little sad she didn't join the others on the quest.
The setting was fantastic (plan to get myself a paper copy so I can properly study the map - kindle does not do justice!) Totally reminded me of the Scottish Highlands with a lot more myth and magic thrown in!
The only part that didn't quite make sense to me was the ceilidh - time sensitive quest, but let's stop for drink & dancing... But to be honest thinking of those I know in this area I can actually see most people dropping any urgency for a good ceilidh!
I was also not a fan of the will they, won't they between Ailsa & Harris, although this relationship did really enhance the ending! I hope the next installment goes into more detail of the history & mythology of Eilanmor - there really is huge potential for a wonderful fantasy world!
October 4, 2020
This was exactly the kind of book i love! An epic quest.
This story features our main character Ailsa who is a changeling. Iona, Harris and Angus who are selkies and are second in line for the throne. The three selkies hire Ailsa as security for them whist they travel to Dunrigh. They embark on a journey to discover to Stone of Destiny.
I love an exciting adventure full of folklore and magic. I loved that it was set in a highland-esque world which was very easy to imagine and get swept away in. I adored Ailsa's character - she was so strong and powerful and took no prisoners. Angus was a hilarious edition to the story who made the book feel less serious. I wish we'd gotten to see more of Iona.
I love that this is a trilogy and didn't just end when they found the stone. I look forward to book 2 and seeing what happens next and discovering more of the history and mythology of Eilanmor.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy of book 1 and 2 to review as part of an Instagram tour i will be taking part in!
My review of book 2 will be up shortly if you would like to read that!
This story features our main character Ailsa who is a changeling. Iona, Harris and Angus who are selkies and are second in line for the throne. The three selkies hire Ailsa as security for them whist they travel to Dunrigh. They embark on a journey to discover to Stone of Destiny.
I love an exciting adventure full of folklore and magic. I loved that it was set in a highland-esque world which was very easy to imagine and get swept away in. I adored Ailsa's character - she was so strong and powerful and took no prisoners. Angus was a hilarious edition to the story who made the book feel less serious. I wish we'd gotten to see more of Iona.
I love that this is a trilogy and didn't just end when they found the stone. I look forward to book 2 and seeing what happens next and discovering more of the history and mythology of Eilanmor.
Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy of book 1 and 2 to review as part of an Instagram tour i will be taking part in!
My review of book 2 will be up shortly if you would like to read that!
March 14, 2020
Logan’s debut novel offers a carefully crafted fantasy world of changelings, selkies and evil faeries who are on a mission to find the Stone of Destiny. Ailsa, our lead, finds herself being tested physically, mentally, socially and emotionally to overcome the challenges ahead of her as well as those belonging to the past behind her.
This novel has a fresh feel to it’s plot, with strong female characters and believable dialogue. It has flavours of Scottish mythology gently woven within it, which adds to the world Logan has created. The author has a beautiful way with words; her description of the natural world and the weather made it so easy to place myself within the land of Eilanmoor and sink into the story.
The story has pace, unexpected twists and likeable characters, all of which make it an excellent YA fantasy read and a brilliant escape from the real world.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series to find out what becomes of Ailsa and pals.
This novel has a fresh feel to it’s plot, with strong female characters and believable dialogue. It has flavours of Scottish mythology gently woven within it, which adds to the world Logan has created. The author has a beautiful way with words; her description of the natural world and the weather made it so easy to place myself within the land of Eilanmoor and sink into the story.
The story has pace, unexpected twists and likeable characters, all of which make it an excellent YA fantasy read and a brilliant escape from the real world.
I’m looking forward to the next in the series to find out what becomes of Ailsa and pals.
October 15, 2019
Set in a mythic Celtic kingdom with strong echoes of the landscape and culture of Scotland, ‘The Stone of Destiny’ is the first in a new fantasy series by Caroline Logan. The story takes off from the very first page, when we meet Ailsa, changeling and outcast, a kick-ass heroine who sets off in the company of a prince and a selkie on an epic journey to retrieve the magical stone without which no true king can be crowned.
Both brave and vulnerable, Ailsa is a truly engaging heroine and as with all good fantasy, the challenges faced by Ailsa and her companions resonate strongly with contemporary readers. This is a multi-layered story, where things are not always what they seem and perspectives alter with each new revelation.
An impressive start to the ‘Four Treasures’ quartet.
Both brave and vulnerable, Ailsa is a truly engaging heroine and as with all good fantasy, the challenges faced by Ailsa and her companions resonate strongly with contemporary readers. This is a multi-layered story, where things are not always what they seem and perspectives alter with each new revelation.
An impressive start to the ‘Four Treasures’ quartet.
October 23, 2019
In my (completely unbiased) opinion, this book has made it's way into my top 5 books read so far this year...and I'm not just saying that because I know the author.
I've been in a bit of a reading slump recently and in the last 2 days I've been unable to put this down. Any free time I had was used to read this.
It's an easy read, with really lovable and enjoyable characters...even better that it's got a kick ass strong female lead, yes!
I usually hate the lead character, but Ailsa was SO likeable and I loved her relationship with all the people she interacts with - especially Harris and Angus.
I'm so pleased for Caroline and all that she has and will achieve from this series and I cannot wait for the next book!
I've been in a bit of a reading slump recently and in the last 2 days I've been unable to put this down. Any free time I had was used to read this.
It's an easy read, with really lovable and enjoyable characters...even better that it's got a kick ass strong female lead, yes!
I usually hate the lead character, but Ailsa was SO likeable and I loved her relationship with all the people she interacts with - especially Harris and Angus.
I'm so pleased for Caroline and all that she has and will achieve from this series and I cannot wait for the next book!
October 12, 2019
Fae, changelings, selkies and other creatures from Scottish myth combine in an epic YA fantasy featuring a perilous quest, a plucky band of adventurers, and a fast-moving plot packed with memorable characters. Loner Ailsa is drawn into an adventure by the charismatic selkie siblings Iona and Harris, and she struggles to adapt from her lonely hermit's outcast existence to a world of kings and princes, lords and ladies, and balls and gowns. Give her an axe in her hand and a villain to face down, and she's far more comfortable. A superb debut that bodes well for future books in the series - because make no mistake, the ending WILL leave you wanting more.
October 1, 2019
FANTASTIC!
This is a brilliant start to a new fantasy series by Caroline Logan. It's a brilliant new world she's created (and who doesn't love a map) and it's wonderfully conveyed. Ailsa is heroine all readers will be cheering on, and Iona and Harris as the Selkie sister and brother combo bring their own kind of magic! There's a lot of adventure packed into these pages and I absolutely raced through it. Can't wait for the next one! (and the one after that!)
This is a brilliant start to a new fantasy series by Caroline Logan. It's a brilliant new world she's created (and who doesn't love a map) and it's wonderfully conveyed. Ailsa is heroine all readers will be cheering on, and Iona and Harris as the Selkie sister and brother combo bring their own kind of magic! There's a lot of adventure packed into these pages and I absolutely raced through it. Can't wait for the next one! (and the one after that!)
July 26, 2020
I've spent too many nights staying up so late just to read this book.
A fantastic novel from the debut author Caroline Logan, The Stone of Destiny is a good cosy adventure that brings together scottish folklore and modern fantasy. Add in some funny and loveable characters and you have this masterpiece.
I was so immersed into this story that I felt like I was one of the trio.
I don't know if there's a date for the second one but if there is can someone please let me know cause I'M DYING
A fantastic novel from the debut author Caroline Logan, The Stone of Destiny is a good cosy adventure that brings together scottish folklore and modern fantasy. Add in some funny and loveable characters and you have this masterpiece.
I was so immersed into this story that I felt like I was one of the trio.
I don't know if there's a date for the second one but if there is can someone please let me know cause I'M DYING
May 5, 2020
A YA novel set in a fantasy Scottish setting. A fun adventure set against a background of Scottish folklore, with everything from selkies, kelpies and a fairy queen. And, of course, a lot of rain. Action packed and fun from the start, and it's great to get a chance to read a fantasy novel set in all the richness of Scotland.
October 4, 2021
Strong amazing woman with an axe. Scottish. Fantasy. This whole series is utterly amazing, I finished this first book and was left gasping for the next one. I cant believe how a series of books can be so good and not be more well known. They are my favourite books of all time and I would 1000099999999990000000/5 recommend these books to literally everyone.
October 24, 2019
An adventure story set in a mythical land, featuring magic, mystery, fairies, romance, monsters and battles. I loved the world of Eilanmor and all the Scottish mythology and traditions that brought it to life. Looking forward to the next in the series. Be prepared for a cliffhanger ending!
October 27, 2019
Just a brilliant novel to lose yourself in on a cold winter's night. A fascinating world, drawing on all things Scottish without feeling twee. Strong characters and enough pace to keep me reading whenever I had a chance.
September 11, 2020
Excellent little book! Would happily read in a single sitting. Loved the characters, loved the mythology, loved the twist on the twists at the end! Cannot wait to get hold of book 2 soon.
April 18, 2024
I learned about Caroline Logan while on a trip in Norway when she was running a session on the cruise we were on. She gave a fabulous talk on fantasy writing, Scottish mythology, folk law, and the publishing process. I got a copy of her first book off of her (I practically ripped it out of her hand with excitement) and began reading it within an hour of getting it. This book did not disappoint.
Honestly, this was such a beautiful and fun story following this young woman, Ailsa, who is an outcast in society because of magical rummers and fear-mongering, when she is discovered by two characters who whisk her away on this adventure. I loved the dynamic of all her characters and adored the found family element of the story. The relationship (of which I have lovingly named the golden trio in my head) between Ailsa and her companion's relationships throughout the book grew in lovely ways that had me smiling ear to ear.
And the endingggg ... you're trying to kill me.
I had just finished reading some of the bigger names in the fantasy genre at the moment, such as books by Holly Black and Sarah J. Maas, and this was a refreshing book within the genre as it leaned slightly away from very European fantasy and leaned more into Celtic, Norse, Scottish, and Irish mythology as a backing for the monsters and settings throughout this book.
This book is definitely a Young adult fantasy, which works really well for the characters. I'm 21, and I love a good spicy read. Don't get me wrong, but I have a soft spot for young adult fiction as it really allows the story to drive it instead of just the romance element, which definitely rings true in this book. It was such an easy read; if you're a fantasy reader as a beginner or as a fantasy fan, I would recommend it!
As of writing this, I do believe it is available on Kindle Unlimited, which is, of course, a bonus.
Honestly, this was such a beautiful and fun story following this young woman, Ailsa, who is an outcast in society because of magical rummers and fear-mongering, when she is discovered by two characters who whisk her away on this adventure. I loved the dynamic of all her characters and adored the found family element of the story. The relationship (of which I have lovingly named the golden trio in my head) between Ailsa and her companion's relationships throughout the book grew in lovely ways that had me smiling ear to ear.
And the endingggg ... you're trying to kill me.
I had just finished reading some of the bigger names in the fantasy genre at the moment, such as books by Holly Black and Sarah J. Maas, and this was a refreshing book within the genre as it leaned slightly away from very European fantasy and leaned more into Celtic, Norse, Scottish, and Irish mythology as a backing for the monsters and settings throughout this book.
This book is definitely a Young adult fantasy, which works really well for the characters. I'm 21, and I love a good spicy read. Don't get me wrong, but I have a soft spot for young adult fiction as it really allows the story to drive it instead of just the romance element, which definitely rings true in this book. It was such an easy read; if you're a fantasy reader as a beginner or as a fantasy fan, I would recommend it!
As of writing this, I do believe it is available on Kindle Unlimited, which is, of course, a bonus.
dnf-na-thanks
November 5, 2022Horny outcasted 19 year old girl meets a hot seal, bad flirting ensues.
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It wouldn't be fair for me to rate this novel. Not only because I'm giving up on it at 60% (more than half way through and there is still zero adventure), but also because I am clearly not of the intended audience. That said, I don't exactly know who the audience is. I'd say 13 year old girls because of the immature and terrible romance (not that 13 year old girls don't deserve better, but they may be less disinterested by it), except there are a handful of graphic deaths to the head by axe...maybe kids are down with that these days idk.
I do know that I am not elitist when it comes to romance. But I found this beyond banal, with a heroine easy to dislike, the humour trying too hard to be jokey, and was cringey, and the setting seemed unrealistic. Largely due to the dialogue that was all over the place.
This review may sound harsh, and it isn't that I hated the novel, but rather it was mindnumbing. Mindless literature. I can enjoy a fun, easy read, even a cheesy AF read, but this was like reading through sludge, colorless, so I stopped.
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It wouldn't be fair for me to rate this novel. Not only because I'm giving up on it at 60% (more than half way through and there is still zero adventure), but also because I am clearly not of the intended audience. That said, I don't exactly know who the audience is. I'd say 13 year old girls because of the immature and terrible romance (not that 13 year old girls don't deserve better, but they may be less disinterested by it), except there are a handful of graphic deaths to the head by axe...maybe kids are down with that these days idk.
I do know that I am not elitist when it comes to romance. But I found this beyond banal, with a heroine easy to dislike, the humour trying too hard to be jokey, and was cringey, and the setting seemed unrealistic. Largely due to the dialogue that was all over the place.
This review may sound harsh, and it isn't that I hated the novel, but rather it was mindnumbing. Mindless literature. I can enjoy a fun, easy read, even a cheesy AF read, but this was like reading through sludge, colorless, so I stopped.
May 12, 2022
I read this in one sitting! I loved the folklore in this book and some of the descriptions were so immersive I forgot I was reading. The characters were fun to read although there were some confusing POV changes throughout. I'd definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a good ol' quest ans Scottish myths
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