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Keeper of the Jewel: Highcliff Guardians Epic Fantasy Series
“It’s time to bestow your sword with a magic befitting a future queen. A queen who will walk the winds of fate on the back of dragonkind.”~Eolande, Crystal Cavern Caretaker
Something evil lurks beneath the palace.A phantasm from a darker past makes its presence known to Khae Wys, Queen of the Elves.Braving the perils of a haunted tower, the queen seeks the counsel of the mysterious Fae, for only they can predict what is to come. A future that doesn’t bode well for her only living child.In a desperate attempt to save the heir to the Willow Throne, Princess Ouderling is exiled to the only place capable of protecting her. Highcliff, the home of the coveted Crystal Cavern and the dragons that watch over it.The Duke of Grim, however, has other plans for the princess.
Something evil lurks beneath the palace.A phantasm from a darker past makes its presence known to Khae Wys, Queen of the Elves.Braving the perils of a haunted tower, the queen seeks the counsel of the mysterious Fae, for only they can predict what is to come. A future that doesn’t bode well for her only living child.In a desperate attempt to save the heir to the Willow Throne, Princess Ouderling is exiled to the only place capable of protecting her. Highcliff, the home of the coveted Crystal Cavern and the dragons that watch over it.The Duke of Grim, however, has other plans for the princess.
- GenresFantasy
628 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2021
14 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Richard H. Stephens
23 books140 followersBorn in Simcoe, Ontario, in 1965, I began writing circa 1974; a bored child looking for something to while away the long, summertime days. My penchant for reading The Hardy Boys led to an inspiration one sweltering summer afternoon when my best friend and I thought, "Hey, we could write one of those." And so, I did.
As my reading horizons broadened, so did my writing. Star Wars inspired me to write a 600-page novel about outer space that caught the attention of a special teacher, Mr. Woodley, who encouraged me to keep writing.
A trip to a local book store saw the proprietor introduce me to Stephen R. Donaldson and Terry Brooks. My writing life was forever changed.
At 17, I left high school to join the working world to support my first son. For the next twenty-two years I worked as a shipper at a local bakery. At the age of 36, I went back to high school to complete my education. After graduating with honours at the age of thirty-nine, I became a member of our local Police Service, and worked for 12 years in the provincial court system.
In early 2017, I resigned from the Police Service to pursue my love of writing full-time. With the help and support of my lovely wife Caroline and our 5 children, I have now realized my boyhood dream.
As my reading horizons broadened, so did my writing. Star Wars inspired me to write a 600-page novel about outer space that caught the attention of a special teacher, Mr. Woodley, who encouraged me to keep writing.
A trip to a local book store saw the proprietor introduce me to Stephen R. Donaldson and Terry Brooks. My writing life was forever changed.
At 17, I left high school to join the working world to support my first son. For the next twenty-two years I worked as a shipper at a local bakery. At the age of 36, I went back to high school to complete my education. After graduating with honours at the age of thirty-nine, I became a member of our local Police Service, and worked for 12 years in the provincial court system.
In early 2017, I resigned from the Police Service to pursue my love of writing full-time. With the help and support of my lovely wife Caroline and our 5 children, I have now realized my boyhood dream.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 24, 2021
You couldn't want anything more from an epic fantasy book! Excitement, action, DRAGONS, wonderful character and relationship development, and memorable characters. You don't have to read all the other books in the Soul Forge Universe to love this one, it's just a truly enjoyable, epic read.
February 10, 2022
The Review
I absolutely loved this book! The world-building was phenomenal, and the imagery the author infused into the narrative, (both literarily speaking and literally) was superb to see. The use of artwork throughout the book was an inspired choice, as the author was able to give readers a visual representation of the tone and quality of the characters that strengthened the emotional connection readers had for them.
I loved how complex and realistic the relationships and personalities of these fantasy characters felt. While I absolutely love fantasy-driven narratives, some novels can get so heavy with the fantasy elements that character choices and personalities can feel stuffy or disconnected in some way. Yet this author found a great way of making the characters either relatable or realistic enough for readers to recognize. Even protagonist Princess Ouderling perfectly represents the young woman who must undergo a heroic journey and face the past of her kingdom, but also holds that youthful sense of rebellion and need for an identity all her own, which will resonate greatly with younger readers especially.
The Verdict
A brilliant, entertaining, and amazingly haunting world of epic fantasy that readers won’t want to miss, author Richard H. Stevens’s “Keeper of the Jewel” is a must-read novel and the perfect start to a brand new fantasy series. What really was great to see was that this book was the first of a new series, but was set within an even greater series the author already has written. Yet the story felt fresh and was able to be enjoyed seamlessly by newcomers while still hitting great story strides with established lands and characters at the same time. It made for such a rich and powerful read.
I absolutely loved this book! The world-building was phenomenal, and the imagery the author infused into the narrative, (both literarily speaking and literally) was superb to see. The use of artwork throughout the book was an inspired choice, as the author was able to give readers a visual representation of the tone and quality of the characters that strengthened the emotional connection readers had for them.
I loved how complex and realistic the relationships and personalities of these fantasy characters felt. While I absolutely love fantasy-driven narratives, some novels can get so heavy with the fantasy elements that character choices and personalities can feel stuffy or disconnected in some way. Yet this author found a great way of making the characters either relatable or realistic enough for readers to recognize. Even protagonist Princess Ouderling perfectly represents the young woman who must undergo a heroic journey and face the past of her kingdom, but also holds that youthful sense of rebellion and need for an identity all her own, which will resonate greatly with younger readers especially.
The Verdict
A brilliant, entertaining, and amazingly haunting world of epic fantasy that readers won’t want to miss, author Richard H. Stevens’s “Keeper of the Jewel” is a must-read novel and the perfect start to a brand new fantasy series. What really was great to see was that this book was the first of a new series, but was set within an even greater series the author already has written. Yet the story felt fresh and was able to be enjoyed seamlessly by newcomers while still hitting great story strides with established lands and characters at the same time. It made for such a rich and powerful read.
August 29, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author, and it is the first book of the Soul Forge series. I will definitely be reading the next book! I really enjoyed the scope of the story. It takes place in a realm of elves and wizards and dragons and is rife with magic and betrayal and intrigue.
There are so many characters throughout the story, and all of them are well developed and relatable on some level. The queen who rules a kingdom that is divided by malice and bigotry. Her older brother whose chance at the throne was dashed as soon as the queen was born - elf law stating the eldest daughter of the crown would inherit the kingdom - seeking what he feels is rightfully his. The princess who wants nothing to do with the crown, but whose destiny pushes her toward a greatness her world has never seen. And many more key players who will help the princess become who she is meant to be.
The story is a grand one, set in a world with a rich history developed by the author. With enemies on multiple fronts, the realm of South March stands on the brink of war and chaos. The author keeps the plot moving with action and discovery, though occasionally there is a lag in the action as the personal experiences of some of the characters distracts from the overall storytelling.
Rich with colorful characters, compelling action, and a world-altering plot, I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy adventure and magical tales.
There are so many characters throughout the story, and all of them are well developed and relatable on some level. The queen who rules a kingdom that is divided by malice and bigotry. Her older brother whose chance at the throne was dashed as soon as the queen was born - elf law stating the eldest daughter of the crown would inherit the kingdom - seeking what he feels is rightfully his. The princess who wants nothing to do with the crown, but whose destiny pushes her toward a greatness her world has never seen. And many more key players who will help the princess become who she is meant to be.
The story is a grand one, set in a world with a rich history developed by the author. With enemies on multiple fronts, the realm of South March stands on the brink of war and chaos. The author keeps the plot moving with action and discovery, though occasionally there is a lag in the action as the personal experiences of some of the characters distracts from the overall storytelling.
Rich with colorful characters, compelling action, and a world-altering plot, I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy adventure and magical tales.
September 5, 2022
The best book I've read in a long time. I cant wait to read this whole series.
February 28, 2022
How would you, as the reader, feel like if you favorite author put your name on his book, citing your deeds towards his career in the acknowledgements? That’s what happens in this book as Richard H. Stephens acknowledges 4 particular readers that are an incredible support to him, and it’s lovely. This has to happen more often, and with every writer.
From what we understand on the first pages and the titles of the chapters, – and all the mentions of them – , there will be a LOT of dragons, hahhahahahah. This is an Epic Fantasy book, and a massive adventure, so everyone that loves dragons, elves, fire, – and Skyrim -, hop on! There is even a chapter called “DragonBorn”.
A very cool detail that we noticed, is that the chapters are titled on a Victorian/Gothic font, which adds to the atmosphere! Awesome!
Given that this is the fourth book of the Soul’s Forge Universe, but the first in the Highcliff Guardian’s Series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Starting with intrigue, family recollections and rivalry between Khae and her older brother, the books shows promises of being complex and with many enticing details. Why does the Queen want her brother dead, and what did he do to deserve it? Is he as malevolent as the thoughts of the Queen imply? Is she overreacting?
There is a clear confrontation of interests between Khae and her brother, because of Elven law and the different ways they think about the dragon race, and humans. This, creates an atmosphere of tension between the two, to the point that the death of the other is sought.
Sensing the dangers that her older brother Orlythe, presents to the community of Dragons, Khae Wys, The Queen is worried about the future of the beasts. That, and the fact that her castle and realm are being threatened by a strange malevolent force that she discovers in the most unpredictable way is enough to grip us to the book. What creature is this that has this warrior like Queen scared out of her wits?
Orlythe, the Duke, is set as the evil brother, and it fits. In allegiance with the human wizard Afara Maral, that is more powerful than the elves wizards, Orlythe stands against the ways of her younger sister, Khae, and the question is raised in us readers: “After all the reasons mentioned when it comes to Orlythe, is he wrong to have such a position?”
A malignant forces are threatening the Kingdom of Elves, trying to attack the Royal family and steal the magic of the dragons, but this force, this, presence is unheard of and its power is dreadful with proportions unknown.
The wild princess, spoiled princess is striking, because of the way she can get into the nerves of her parents, Khae and Hammas. She isn’t willing to listen and acts like a total brat.
Still a teen, and not understanding, or caring to understand, many of the consequences of her actions, or the power within her hands, she makes poor decisions that end up costing even the lives of those trying to protect her. It is, many times annoying to read her act, and you want to slap her in the face because of her foolishness and insolence, although she is the second in command in the entire Kingdom. Difficulties will force her to grow, and in the hands of warriors, she will have no other choice but to step up to her calling.
Afara Maral, the human wizard is of most interest indeed. A very mysterious character in all his ways, and a powerful wizard, feared, or shunned, by the entire Kingdom of Elves, the wizard is a central piece of this story, and it seems like he is in charge of Grim Keep by influencing all Orlythe’s actions. What is this dark wizard trying to achieve?
It’s captivating on how Richard H. Stephens keeps introducing character after character and making them interesting, building layer upon layer on them instead of telling everything. Aelfwynne, Xantha and her troops, become the most interesting when they reach the stage of the book, after grim happenings, because of their mystery and story. Their experience about the “Crystal Cavern”, and to Xantha, her battle fury and legendary status that contrasts her calm and alert demeanor, do make us curious of her every action, especially because she is respected by the Kingdom’s highest Wizard.
MANY surprises await us, as the most expected anticipated hero might not even be who we expect. Talking about unlikely heroes, and chosen ones, we have not only one but TWO complete “out of the frame” heroes and saviors that turn up to be some of the most… “forgettable” characters in all the book. It’s lovely, and funny.
Surprises don’t end in the characters, but the plot twists several times as the plans of the many involved parties, and guilds, including the darkest ones, develop under the main plots, slowly and secretively, pledging alliance to the crown, but moving on with their own plans in the midst of the darkness and chaos. Some want to kill the Queen, others, want to kill the Princess. Others want to have more presence while keeping independence, but all want power. It’s fascinating!
Keeper of the Jewel is a pleasant, intriguing, funny and unpredictable part of the Soul’s Forge Universe, Highcliff Guardian’s Epic Fantasy Series, and if you love dragons, goblins and elves and magic, this is a book you want to check out.
Favourite characters: Jyllana, Aelfwynne, Xantha.
Pros:
Great Narrative
Great Plot-twists developed from side-plots
Great family conflicts
Detailed and solid descriptions of the rules of the Elves and their society
Detailed descriptions of the views, characters, dragons and plot
Nice action scenes and emotional scenes
The author kept the attention to the detail when it came to the implications of the events and who knew what and why
The princess isn’t the center of the story at all times
The Queen isn’t perfect and she is many times challenged and things not always go her way, even as Queen
There is an impressive “human-like” feeling to the characters
Although long, the story is interesting from beginning to end
Cons:
· There was, at times, too much description and embellishment, but that’s to expect from a book this genre.
Cover Score: 8.9/10
Book Score: 8.4/10
Original review @ - https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
From what we understand on the first pages and the titles of the chapters, – and all the mentions of them – , there will be a LOT of dragons, hahhahahahah. This is an Epic Fantasy book, and a massive adventure, so everyone that loves dragons, elves, fire, – and Skyrim -, hop on! There is even a chapter called “DragonBorn”.
A very cool detail that we noticed, is that the chapters are titled on a Victorian/Gothic font, which adds to the atmosphere! Awesome!
Given that this is the fourth book of the Soul’s Forge Universe, but the first in the Highcliff Guardian’s Series, it can be read as a stand-alone.
Starting with intrigue, family recollections and rivalry between Khae and her older brother, the books shows promises of being complex and with many enticing details. Why does the Queen want her brother dead, and what did he do to deserve it? Is he as malevolent as the thoughts of the Queen imply? Is she overreacting?
There is a clear confrontation of interests between Khae and her brother, because of Elven law and the different ways they think about the dragon race, and humans. This, creates an atmosphere of tension between the two, to the point that the death of the other is sought.
Sensing the dangers that her older brother Orlythe, presents to the community of Dragons, Khae Wys, The Queen is worried about the future of the beasts. That, and the fact that her castle and realm are being threatened by a strange malevolent force that she discovers in the most unpredictable way is enough to grip us to the book. What creature is this that has this warrior like Queen scared out of her wits?
Orlythe, the Duke, is set as the evil brother, and it fits. In allegiance with the human wizard Afara Maral, that is more powerful than the elves wizards, Orlythe stands against the ways of her younger sister, Khae, and the question is raised in us readers: “After all the reasons mentioned when it comes to Orlythe, is he wrong to have such a position?”
A malignant forces are threatening the Kingdom of Elves, trying to attack the Royal family and steal the magic of the dragons, but this force, this, presence is unheard of and its power is dreadful with proportions unknown.
The wild princess, spoiled princess is striking, because of the way she can get into the nerves of her parents, Khae and Hammas. She isn’t willing to listen and acts like a total brat.
Still a teen, and not understanding, or caring to understand, many of the consequences of her actions, or the power within her hands, she makes poor decisions that end up costing even the lives of those trying to protect her. It is, many times annoying to read her act, and you want to slap her in the face because of her foolishness and insolence, although she is the second in command in the entire Kingdom. Difficulties will force her to grow, and in the hands of warriors, she will have no other choice but to step up to her calling.
Afara Maral, the human wizard is of most interest indeed. A very mysterious character in all his ways, and a powerful wizard, feared, or shunned, by the entire Kingdom of Elves, the wizard is a central piece of this story, and it seems like he is in charge of Grim Keep by influencing all Orlythe’s actions. What is this dark wizard trying to achieve?
It’s captivating on how Richard H. Stephens keeps introducing character after character and making them interesting, building layer upon layer on them instead of telling everything. Aelfwynne, Xantha and her troops, become the most interesting when they reach the stage of the book, after grim happenings, because of their mystery and story. Their experience about the “Crystal Cavern”, and to Xantha, her battle fury and legendary status that contrasts her calm and alert demeanor, do make us curious of her every action, especially because she is respected by the Kingdom’s highest Wizard.
MANY surprises await us, as the most expected anticipated hero might not even be who we expect. Talking about unlikely heroes, and chosen ones, we have not only one but TWO complete “out of the frame” heroes and saviors that turn up to be some of the most… “forgettable” characters in all the book. It’s lovely, and funny.
Surprises don’t end in the characters, but the plot twists several times as the plans of the many involved parties, and guilds, including the darkest ones, develop under the main plots, slowly and secretively, pledging alliance to the crown, but moving on with their own plans in the midst of the darkness and chaos. Some want to kill the Queen, others, want to kill the Princess. Others want to have more presence while keeping independence, but all want power. It’s fascinating!
Keeper of the Jewel is a pleasant, intriguing, funny and unpredictable part of the Soul’s Forge Universe, Highcliff Guardian’s Epic Fantasy Series, and if you love dragons, goblins and elves and magic, this is a book you want to check out.
Favourite characters: Jyllana, Aelfwynne, Xantha.
Pros:
Great Narrative
Great Plot-twists developed from side-plots
Great family conflicts
Detailed and solid descriptions of the rules of the Elves and their society
Detailed descriptions of the views, characters, dragons and plot
Nice action scenes and emotional scenes
The author kept the attention to the detail when it came to the implications of the events and who knew what and why
The princess isn’t the center of the story at all times
The Queen isn’t perfect and she is many times challenged and things not always go her way, even as Queen
There is an impressive “human-like” feeling to the characters
Although long, the story is interesting from beginning to end
Cons:
· There was, at times, too much description and embellishment, but that’s to expect from a book this genre.
Cover Score: 8.9/10
Book Score: 8.4/10
Original review @ - https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
February 18, 2022
Beginning the Epic Adventure . . .
With dragons included, the book already starts out perfectly brilliant. The author has a nice style of writing with the descriptions bringing the characters and surroundings to reality. And in case you still don’t see it all in your mind, there are pictures! Seriously, this world does come alive in the writing and makes this an exciting and enjoyable reading experience.
Will Princess Ouderling, exiled to Highcliff, get what she needs from the dragons? Or will her quest send her elsewhere to survive the adventures that await her among a myriad of strange creatures and extreme danger? Grab your copy and begin the journey to a new destiny.
With dragons included, the book already starts out perfectly brilliant. The author has a nice style of writing with the descriptions bringing the characters and surroundings to reality. And in case you still don’t see it all in your mind, there are pictures! Seriously, this world does come alive in the writing and makes this an exciting and enjoyable reading experience.
Will Princess Ouderling, exiled to Highcliff, get what she needs from the dragons? Or will her quest send her elsewhere to survive the adventures that await her among a myriad of strange creatures and extreme danger? Grab your copy and begin the journey to a new destiny.
August 10, 2025
Wow!! It’s been a long time since a book has taken me on this type of journey! The type of journey where the author has done such an amazing job building the characters, storyline and world, that you actually feel like you’re part of the story! You, are riding the dragons, climbing the treacherous paths to survival, crouching in the dark corners because your life depends on it and so much more! I felt so close to the characters that my heart hurt a few times and that’s an amazing thing when an author can do that. I can not wait to continue the journey I’m on with the rest of the books! And can we please please please get this made into a movie!!!
June 4, 2022
Bought this directly from the author himself, and he also signed it as well. "Believe in yourself, and the world will follow." Is what he wrote, and it pretty much sums up the whole story. Once I started could not put it down. Lots of action, and of course dragons of all shapes, sizes and colors. Well rounded characters, a well described world. I can't wait to start book 2 in this series.
February 18, 2022
The Keeper of the Jewel is the first in a series. The first few chapters were sluggish with creating the setting. Then a classic hero journey begins. The question is who is the hero? You'll have to read the story to find out. The female characters were strong and realistic. Well worth reading!
February 16, 2022
Great series starter. Looking forward to more
February 4, 2022
An escapist fantasy epic – for the young at heart, whatever the age!
Canadian author Richard H. Stephens has served with the Police Service, the provincial court system, and now devotes his time to his first love – writing. He writes epic fantasies in series – LEGENDS OF THE LURKER (three volumes), SOUL FORGE SAGA (three volumes), BANEBRIDGE COMPANION (three volumes, and HIGH CLIFF GUARDIANS of which KEEPER OF THE JEWEL is Book 1. His books are directed toward the Teen and Young Adult audience.
Before the novel opens, Richard explains he relates ‘the story of the rise of the clandestine society of Windwalkers – a sect of elves who devote their lives to protect powerful sources of magic – a magic so strong that should it fall into the wrong hands, it would spell the end of South March and the lands beyond.’ He includes artworks in the book that enhance the reading experience – as does the colorful quality of prose – “We should just lay siege to his castle and be done with it.” Khae Wys held the King of Elves’ stare without blinking. It had been a long day deliberating grievances with eh inhabitants of South March. A few involving a certain, rogue duke. The king raised thin eyebrows. “Really?” A slow smile dimpled Khae’s cheeks, her pale skin and pure white hair marking her as an elf as surely as the pointed ears securing her husband’s spun gold tiara in place…’
The story is lengthy, but appropriately so to cover the realm of action: ‘ Something evil lurks beneath the palace. A phantasm from a darker past makes its presence known to Khae Wys, Queen of the Elves. Braving the perils of a haunted tower, the queen seeks the counsel of the mysterious Fae, for only they can predict what is to come. A future that doesn’t bode well for her only living child. In a desperate attempt to save the heir to the Willow Throne, Princess Ouderling is exiled to the only place capable of protecting her. Highcliff, the home of the coveted Crystal Cavern and the dragons that watch over it. The Duke of Grim, however, has other plans for the princess.’
Well written and rich in imagery and imagination, this initial volume of a new series makes good on the promise to provide rich fantasy tales to take us away from the conundrums of the day and provide a fine escape. Recommended.
Canadian author Richard H. Stephens has served with the Police Service, the provincial court system, and now devotes his time to his first love – writing. He writes epic fantasies in series – LEGENDS OF THE LURKER (three volumes), SOUL FORGE SAGA (three volumes), BANEBRIDGE COMPANION (three volumes, and HIGH CLIFF GUARDIANS of which KEEPER OF THE JEWEL is Book 1. His books are directed toward the Teen and Young Adult audience.
Before the novel opens, Richard explains he relates ‘the story of the rise of the clandestine society of Windwalkers – a sect of elves who devote their lives to protect powerful sources of magic – a magic so strong that should it fall into the wrong hands, it would spell the end of South March and the lands beyond.’ He includes artworks in the book that enhance the reading experience – as does the colorful quality of prose – “We should just lay siege to his castle and be done with it.” Khae Wys held the King of Elves’ stare without blinking. It had been a long day deliberating grievances with eh inhabitants of South March. A few involving a certain, rogue duke. The king raised thin eyebrows. “Really?” A slow smile dimpled Khae’s cheeks, her pale skin and pure white hair marking her as an elf as surely as the pointed ears securing her husband’s spun gold tiara in place…’
The story is lengthy, but appropriately so to cover the realm of action: ‘ Something evil lurks beneath the palace. A phantasm from a darker past makes its presence known to Khae Wys, Queen of the Elves. Braving the perils of a haunted tower, the queen seeks the counsel of the mysterious Fae, for only they can predict what is to come. A future that doesn’t bode well for her only living child. In a desperate attempt to save the heir to the Willow Throne, Princess Ouderling is exiled to the only place capable of protecting her. Highcliff, the home of the coveted Crystal Cavern and the dragons that watch over it. The Duke of Grim, however, has other plans for the princess.’
Well written and rich in imagery and imagination, this initial volume of a new series makes good on the promise to provide rich fantasy tales to take us away from the conundrums of the day and provide a fine escape. Recommended.
February 27, 2024
*Blurb*
After an encounter with a phantasm and a council with the fae, Khae Wys, sends her only daughter to Highcliff. Khae Wys is the Queen of the Elves, and her daughter, Princess Ouderling, the heir to the Willow Throne. Highcliff is a cliff, high up in the mountains, where the high wizard rules and together with the dragons watches and protects the Crystal Cavern.
The Duke of Grim, Khae’s brother, however has other plans for princess Ouderling. Will he succeed, or is Queen Khae right in that exiling her daughter to Highcliff will protect Ouderling?
*Review*
I absolutely loved this book. The story was gripping and pulled me in from the beginning. If you like epic fantasy stories then this book is not to be missed. The characters and story are well thought out. The story is fast paced, but not so fast paced that the world-building and character development isn’t on point. In fantasy characters can get annoying when the fantasy elements of the story get all the attention, this however isn’t the case in Keeper of the Jewel. The story is set in the Soul Forge universe, and is the first in a series. You don’t need to have read other books in the Soul Forge universe, to be able to read this book. The relationship and story development in the book are spot on and the story was gripping till the last page.
After an encounter with a phantasm and a council with the fae, Khae Wys, sends her only daughter to Highcliff. Khae Wys is the Queen of the Elves, and her daughter, Princess Ouderling, the heir to the Willow Throne. Highcliff is a cliff, high up in the mountains, where the high wizard rules and together with the dragons watches and protects the Crystal Cavern.
The Duke of Grim, Khae’s brother, however has other plans for princess Ouderling. Will he succeed, or is Queen Khae right in that exiling her daughter to Highcliff will protect Ouderling?
*Review*
I absolutely loved this book. The story was gripping and pulled me in from the beginning. If you like epic fantasy stories then this book is not to be missed. The characters and story are well thought out. The story is fast paced, but not so fast paced that the world-building and character development isn’t on point. In fantasy characters can get annoying when the fantasy elements of the story get all the attention, this however isn’t the case in Keeper of the Jewel. The story is set in the Soul Forge universe, and is the first in a series. You don’t need to have read other books in the Soul Forge universe, to be able to read this book. The relationship and story development in the book are spot on and the story was gripping till the last page.
January 24, 2024
A queen forced to send her daughter off to the high wizard in hopes of keeping her safe - A brother entrusted to see the safety of his niece's arrival to said wizard with an unreliable past - A princess who is priveledged and resents being sent off - A high wizard who doesn't think the princess has what it takes to be more - this book takes you through it all! Full of action, magic, mystery, intrigue and riddled with lies, betrayal, greed and corruption! Alliances are made or broken - friendships new and old - a war to start or end - a world in the balance! With Elves, wizards, goblins, trolls, humans, dragons, wyverns, wraiths, and much more to grace the pages, you won't want to put this book down. Well-written, equally balanced pace, world-building with the right amount of details, and an easy to follow timeline make for a great first book to start a new, epically fantastic fantasy world that you can dive straight into!
January 28, 2023
5☆ beautifully written, an absolute page-turner
Amazing character growth and phenomenal world-building throughout the book.
When Queen Khae has a vision of something that has threatened her daughter Ouderling she sends her away to the protection of the high guardian.
This story brings you into a world of elves, wizards, witches, sprites, dragons, Wyverns, and goblins.
The high guardians, protectors of the crystal caverns and the earth blood, Ouderlings protectors or is she there to protect them?
How many people will die protecting the princess?
There is evil dwelling in the castle and it intends to destroy.
There were so many intense moments throughout the book I couldn't put it down.
Amazing character growth and phenomenal world-building throughout the book.
When Queen Khae has a vision of something that has threatened her daughter Ouderling she sends her away to the protection of the high guardian.
This story brings you into a world of elves, wizards, witches, sprites, dragons, Wyverns, and goblins.
The high guardians, protectors of the crystal caverns and the earth blood, Ouderlings protectors or is she there to protect them?
How many people will die protecting the princess?
There is evil dwelling in the castle and it intends to destroy.
There were so many intense moments throughout the book I couldn't put it down.
February 21, 2022
Those times in life when the indulgence into a realm of escapism blends perfectly with the Author's vision. You start this book with the expectation of getting the ground work ,the character / world building set up to the new series you have decided to peruse. BUT then after the opening chapters begin to unfold you discover you have fallen into the world you were reading about, the characters come alive as you view the pictures provided. Elves , and Dragons..Twists and turns .. I am an Honest ARC reviewer awaiting book #2 ..This one will be an instant success . expect it to become a movies or T.V. series in the future.
September 11, 2023
Keeper of the Jewel is an epic fantasy that will you sweep you off your feet into an enchanting, yet dark mythical realm. We have a royal family split by the crown itself, a kingdom on the brink of destruction and ruin, and a princess destined to change everything. Stephens does an excellent job world building. The world is vast, beautiful, yet hard. The characters are life like, with relationships, thoughts, feelings, and personalities that are as diverse as the cast. The plot lags in spots, but I feel that is true of most high fantasy. All in all, an amazing start to the series.
March 17, 2023
What an interesting and exciting story!!! Absolutely love the characters. The descriptions of the scenery and places made me feel like I was there. I've was able to really immerse myself into this world. I am definitely looking forward to reading more of this series! Thank you for writing this Richard!
March 15, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It is my first read of a Richard Stphens book and I can say that it was really well written and developed well to a good ending. My only wish would have been more detail with the action at the end of the book, the story moved very quickly relative to the rest of the story, however that doesn't take away from my thorough enjoyment.
Looking forward to the next in the series.
Looking forward to the next in the series.
February 23, 2022
This book was amazing! I enjoyed the beautiful description of the characters, the landscapes and especially the dragons!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2023
Will the princess live up to the name of her parents? Or will she be a headstrong individual like most teenagers are? How will she live up to the pressures put upon her?
Like to hear about epic battles and dragons? Then this is the book for you.
Highly recommend.
Now onwards to book 2.
Like to hear about epic battles and dragons? Then this is the book for you.
Highly recommend.
Now onwards to book 2.
August 2, 2025
This is a great fantasy book with lots of interesting characters and storylines. I like Stephen's writing style, offering just enough detail and information to let you picture it in your mind. I look forward to the next books in the Highcliff Guardian series.
December 24, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to get the second one in the series. Even better is it is written by a local author!!
January 19, 2023
What a page turner!
February 8, 2022
A very intense and adventurous book. Princess Ouderling was sent to train with the Highcliff Guardians and on her journey there she has encounter different creatures and ungrateful uncle that wants her dead. Dragons which are good and bad and a war is coming. With her protector Jyllana together they accomplish a lot. If you enjoy dragons, goblins, trolls, and other creatures you will enjoy this book.
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