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The Stone Keep
Eadha learns early the cruel nature of the world from Lord Huath, a brutal Channeller. The Channellers rule Domhain, sapping magic from others so that the crops might grow, the cities might prosper, and the dragons might be held at bay. But there is another, more ancient power blossoming in the young Eadha, one that does not consume the life force of others. And as the world and its cruelties rush toward Eadha and Ionain, the boy she has always loved, she faces a terrible choice: make a lie of Ionain’s life or watch him lose everything.
345 pages, Paperback
Published November 23, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 17, 2021
"Power cannot come from nothing. It has to come from another; one man's power is another man's pain."'
I really really enjoyed this book!
I was greatly intrigued by the world S. K. Marlay has created, a world where the ability to simply live by your own hands and hard work is no longer allowed. You couldn't simply plant crops or build houses with your own hands- only a Channeller, someone with the ability to draw the life force from others to power their magic, can do these things. They are reveared and praised, as only a Channeller can grow crops, build structures, and fight of the fearsome and deadly dragons. They are the protectors of the realm!
And Channellers, naturally, are mainly born in families of great power, riches, and esteem. And so on goes the age-old tale of those in power remaining in power, and those beneath being trodden down to nothing- but it was absolutely fascinating how Marley took this system and made it her own, building a fantastic and intriguing world completely unique.
"All of it came down to power. The having of it, the not having having of it; the beauty and the terror of those silver threads. It had always been that way but she hadn't known it, until now. And now she knew, she could never unknown it. Nothing would ever be the same again"
This story takes us from Eadah and Ionain's childhood in a remote Keep, where they're mostly nieve to the strength and power of Channellers and what that word really means, and into the heart of a Channeller Acadaemy, where the real "training" begins. But with Eadah hiding a secret, a secret that could change the world as they know it, she knows that there is more going on then they're being shown.
This is very much a starter book, at times feeling slow as the world and characters are introduced and built upon. It feels very much like setting the scene for the coming series, which if this is anything to go by I'm sure will be a fantastic epic fantasy 😍 Eadah was an interesting character to follow, with a depth, selflessness and strength which I admired. I can't wait to find out where this story goes!
If you love books by Kierstan White, Robin Hobb and Kristina Pérez you must try this!
**This book was gifted to me by the publisher in exchange for a honest review **
I really really enjoyed this book!
I was greatly intrigued by the world S. K. Marlay has created, a world where the ability to simply live by your own hands and hard work is no longer allowed. You couldn't simply plant crops or build houses with your own hands- only a Channeller, someone with the ability to draw the life force from others to power their magic, can do these things. They are reveared and praised, as only a Channeller can grow crops, build structures, and fight of the fearsome and deadly dragons. They are the protectors of the realm!
And Channellers, naturally, are mainly born in families of great power, riches, and esteem. And so on goes the age-old tale of those in power remaining in power, and those beneath being trodden down to nothing- but it was absolutely fascinating how Marley took this system and made it her own, building a fantastic and intriguing world completely unique.
"All of it came down to power. The having of it, the not having having of it; the beauty and the terror of those silver threads. It had always been that way but she hadn't known it, until now. And now she knew, she could never unknown it. Nothing would ever be the same again"
This story takes us from Eadah and Ionain's childhood in a remote Keep, where they're mostly nieve to the strength and power of Channellers and what that word really means, and into the heart of a Channeller Acadaemy, where the real "training" begins. But with Eadah hiding a secret, a secret that could change the world as they know it, she knows that there is more going on then they're being shown.
This is very much a starter book, at times feeling slow as the world and characters are introduced and built upon. It feels very much like setting the scene for the coming series, which if this is anything to go by I'm sure will be a fantastic epic fantasy 😍 Eadah was an interesting character to follow, with a depth, selflessness and strength which I admired. I can't wait to find out where this story goes!
If you love books by Kierstan White, Robin Hobb and Kristina Pérez you must try this!
**This book was gifted to me by the publisher in exchange for a honest review **
November 19, 2021
Was given an advance copy of The Stone Keep, and didn't intend to read it this month... I'm still in the middle of Brandon Sanderson's 'Hero of Ages', however, after a cursory skim I got absorbed, and read the whole thing in just a couple of long reading sessions. I loved it. I think it's a very strong debut novel.
November 19, 2021
The Stone Keep is a book that should not be missed! I was gripped by the story from the onset, despite first struggling with the pronunciation of character names. Once I let go of my need to pronounce the character names perfectly, I found myself diving into this intriguing world of friendship, competition, honour, love, and constant surprise.
I am a bit torn as to whether I should be giving it 4 or 5 stars, but ultimately I do think the book deserves all 5 stars.
Eadha is a well-formed character who takes the reader on this journey with her. We feel her emotions, understand why she does what she does, and struggle alongside her to keep her power under control. I did however long to get a deeper insight into some of the other characters, specifically Ionan. With Eadha and Ionan's lives so intertwined I wanted to see what was happening to him, what he was feeling and think. Although having the novel writen from one perspective only is interesting and keeps us in the dark as to why Ionan does what he does, just like Eadha is, it is still frustrating at times and I do think the added perspective may have added to the overall experience.
Aside from my internal struggle to decide whether we needed to see life from both Eadha and Ionan's perspective, or if the torture of not knowing why Ionan does what he does adds to the book, I found the book to be a winner for me. The world that is created, the characters that are well developed, and the conflict and tension which rises to an explosive and satisfying ending, for the fundamentals of a fantastic future series that I cannot wait to read.
So whether the torture of not knowing why Ionan does what he does is intentional or not, it does add to the book and the growing frustration that Eadha feels. All of this leads to a 5-star review from me. I cannot wait to read what happens next!
*this book was gifted to me by the publisher as an advance copy, in return for an honest review*
I am a bit torn as to whether I should be giving it 4 or 5 stars, but ultimately I do think the book deserves all 5 stars.
Eadha is a well-formed character who takes the reader on this journey with her. We feel her emotions, understand why she does what she does, and struggle alongside her to keep her power under control. I did however long to get a deeper insight into some of the other characters, specifically Ionan. With Eadha and Ionan's lives so intertwined I wanted to see what was happening to him, what he was feeling and think. Although having the novel writen from one perspective only is interesting and keeps us in the dark as to why Ionan does what he does, just like Eadha is, it is still frustrating at times and I do think the added perspective may have added to the overall experience.
Aside from my internal struggle to decide whether we needed to see life from both Eadha and Ionan's perspective, or if the torture of not knowing why Ionan does what he does adds to the book, I found the book to be a winner for me. The world that is created, the characters that are well developed, and the conflict and tension which rises to an explosive and satisfying ending, for the fundamentals of a fantastic future series that I cannot wait to read.
So whether the torture of not knowing why Ionan does what he does is intentional or not, it does add to the book and the growing frustration that Eadha feels. All of this leads to a 5-star review from me. I cannot wait to read what happens next!
*this book was gifted to me by the publisher as an advance copy, in return for an honest review*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2021
In the efforts of full disclosure: I was sent an ARC (advanced reader copy) of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This. Book. Was. PHENOMENAL.
The basic premise of the book is that those who have the gift of 'channeling' are those who are in power. Channeling is the ability to do all sorts of fantastic feats, such as being able to fly, raising buildings from mere stone, and growing crops at rapid speeds. But, channeling does come at a price...and I'll leave it at that to avoid spoilers. :) The overall premise of the book was far more unique than anything I have read recently, and I thoroughly enjoyed delving into this new world.
Eadha, our heroine, was such a fantastically written character, even though she made some very frustrating choices (!!!). I literally could not put the book down a few times because I wanted to find out what would happen next in her story. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
Oh, and there are dragons. Dragons automatically make everything better, and these are no exception. There is juuuuust enough information given on the dragons in this book to be tantalizing, and I cannot wait to learn more.
This. Book. Was. PHENOMENAL.
The basic premise of the book is that those who have the gift of 'channeling' are those who are in power. Channeling is the ability to do all sorts of fantastic feats, such as being able to fly, raising buildings from mere stone, and growing crops at rapid speeds. But, channeling does come at a price...and I'll leave it at that to avoid spoilers. :) The overall premise of the book was far more unique than anything I have read recently, and I thoroughly enjoyed delving into this new world.
Eadha, our heroine, was such a fantastically written character, even though she made some very frustrating choices (!!!). I literally could not put the book down a few times because I wanted to find out what would happen next in her story. I cannot recommend this book highly enough!
Oh, and there are dragons. Dragons automatically make everything better, and these are no exception. There is juuuuust enough information given on the dragons in this book to be tantalizing, and I cannot wait to learn more.
November 26, 2021
I would like to thank Heroic Books, and S. K. Marlay, for providing me with an ARC of ‘The Stone Keep’ - the first instalment in ‘The Channeller Cycle’ series - in exchange for an honest view.
As the first book in the series, all I can say is wow, I cannot wait to read the next instalment. This book is fantastic and an excellent read for anyone in the mood for their next fantasy novel.
Magic, power, danger, and dragons - what more could you want from this wonderful debut novel.
Immediately, the reader is taken on an adventure through the dangerous yet magical world that Marley has masterfully built. From the Keep’s crumbling halls to the opulent apartments on Second Island, this incredible read takes the reader on an action-backed journey full of magic and secrets as both Eadha and Ionain try to navigate their place in a polarised world of those who have power and those who do not.
The morally complicated art of Channelling is introduced early on in the book, with young Eadha becoming aware of the cruel nature of the world she lives in - where Channellers drain magic from others in order for crops to grow and land to flourish. However, all is not as it seems and Eadha is left with a terrible choice to make in order to save herself, Ionain and the Keep she calls home. The choices she makes ultimately set in motion a turbulent chain of events that, not only emphasise Eadha’s humanity in a world devoid of it, but grips the reader and leaves them wanting to read on.
Throughout the book, each character that is introduced, and the plot itself, were well-written and well-developed. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a great start to the series.
The Channeller Cycle has a lot of potential and I cannot wait to see where S. K. Marlay takes Eadha and Ionain from here - consider me gripped!
TW: Slavery, Violence & Sexual Assault.
As the first book in the series, all I can say is wow, I cannot wait to read the next instalment. This book is fantastic and an excellent read for anyone in the mood for their next fantasy novel.
Magic, power, danger, and dragons - what more could you want from this wonderful debut novel.
Immediately, the reader is taken on an adventure through the dangerous yet magical world that Marley has masterfully built. From the Keep’s crumbling halls to the opulent apartments on Second Island, this incredible read takes the reader on an action-backed journey full of magic and secrets as both Eadha and Ionain try to navigate their place in a polarised world of those who have power and those who do not.
The morally complicated art of Channelling is introduced early on in the book, with young Eadha becoming aware of the cruel nature of the world she lives in - where Channellers drain magic from others in order for crops to grow and land to flourish. However, all is not as it seems and Eadha is left with a terrible choice to make in order to save herself, Ionain and the Keep she calls home. The choices she makes ultimately set in motion a turbulent chain of events that, not only emphasise Eadha’s humanity in a world devoid of it, but grips the reader and leaves them wanting to read on.
Throughout the book, each character that is introduced, and the plot itself, were well-written and well-developed. This was a thoroughly enjoyable read and a great start to the series.
The Channeller Cycle has a lot of potential and I cannot wait to see where S. K. Marlay takes Eadha and Ionain from here - consider me gripped!
TW: Slavery, Violence & Sexual Assault.
November 23, 2021
Since the first few pages I couldn't put the book down.
This was very easy to get into, everything was very vividly and beautifully described, that being the landscape, the cultural surroundings, and the creatures we’re introduced to. The setting was indeed very interesting, this was the second time I read a book that had dragons in it, and I was not disappointed.
The dialogue had a mixture of funny, philosophical, and normal conversations. In times where you’re expecting something to be said, it is in fact said and done which makes it a natural plot driven by both action and dialogue.
There’s basically enough of everything. I don’t think I’ve ever liked a book as much as this one. You have a healthy amount of action, tension and intrigue every few chapters that makes you not want to put the book down to know what the characters will do and say next.
The ending was very gripping. You have that cliché happy ending but also the open ending that allows you to think deeply about what will happen next. After reading this, you will 100% want to read the next book – that’s how powerful this ending was.
We have every typical character in this book. The bullies, the love interest, the lost friends and well as new ones. They each have an important role in this plot, and I don’t think the story would be the same if one of the characters wasn’t in it. Everything they give, do, and say goes according to their descriptions and makes them realistic and believable. It may seem cliché at times, but thinking about their age, upbringing, and current situation I think it goes very much accordingly.
This was very easy to get into, everything was very vividly and beautifully described, that being the landscape, the cultural surroundings, and the creatures we’re introduced to. The setting was indeed very interesting, this was the second time I read a book that had dragons in it, and I was not disappointed.
The dialogue had a mixture of funny, philosophical, and normal conversations. In times where you’re expecting something to be said, it is in fact said and done which makes it a natural plot driven by both action and dialogue.
There’s basically enough of everything. I don’t think I’ve ever liked a book as much as this one. You have a healthy amount of action, tension and intrigue every few chapters that makes you not want to put the book down to know what the characters will do and say next.
The ending was very gripping. You have that cliché happy ending but also the open ending that allows you to think deeply about what will happen next. After reading this, you will 100% want to read the next book – that’s how powerful this ending was.
We have every typical character in this book. The bullies, the love interest, the lost friends and well as new ones. They each have an important role in this plot, and I don’t think the story would be the same if one of the characters wasn’t in it. Everything they give, do, and say goes according to their descriptions and makes them realistic and believable. It may seem cliché at times, but thinking about their age, upbringing, and current situation I think it goes very much accordingly.
December 3, 2021
Thank you to the publisher, Heroic Books and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for a review on their book tour over on Instagram.
I didn’t know what to expect going into this book but I wasn’t disappointed. This book was such a great read. Marlay creates an intriguing and interesting world and magic system which was easy enough to understand. I loved the theme of power throughout the book and how the Channellers, people who can draw the life force from others to fuel their magic, were from upper-class elite families, where they cling onto their power and work to keep it in their bloodlines while exploring those beneath them. I think this really mirrors our world in a thought-provoking way.
At first, the book can feel quite slow but the pacing picks up, you just need to push through the first bit to enjoy the story at its best.
Our main characters are Eadha and Ionain. Both complex, multi-dimensional, with goals and motivations. I really loved Eadha’s character, especially her resilience throughout everything she faces and how keeping her own powers a secret has an impact on her own life. Ionain has his own set of motivations, ones that are important to him and his family. This also makes the character frustratingly some points, even if his actions are justified in his mind. There are other characters that are introduced later in the book that I loved to hate.
Overall, I recommend this book as a good fantasy read to anyone looking for their next read or to extend their TBR list.
I didn’t know what to expect going into this book but I wasn’t disappointed. This book was such a great read. Marlay creates an intriguing and interesting world and magic system which was easy enough to understand. I loved the theme of power throughout the book and how the Channellers, people who can draw the life force from others to fuel their magic, were from upper-class elite families, where they cling onto their power and work to keep it in their bloodlines while exploring those beneath them. I think this really mirrors our world in a thought-provoking way.
At first, the book can feel quite slow but the pacing picks up, you just need to push through the first bit to enjoy the story at its best.
Our main characters are Eadha and Ionain. Both complex, multi-dimensional, with goals and motivations. I really loved Eadha’s character, especially her resilience throughout everything she faces and how keeping her own powers a secret has an impact on her own life. Ionain has his own set of motivations, ones that are important to him and his family. This also makes the character frustratingly some points, even if his actions are justified in his mind. There are other characters that are introduced later in the book that I loved to hate.
Overall, I recommend this book as a good fantasy read to anyone looking for their next read or to extend their TBR list.
November 25, 2021
(Read as a volunteer advanced reader)
The Stone Keep is a brilliant book about how power can consume a person and turn them to cruelty and selfishness, and how outsiders desperately try to fight it. When Eadha discovers she has the gift of Channeling, a gift rarely found in those outside of the rich and powerful families, she is forced to hide it. However her generosity and selflessness leads her towards lies and secrets that she fights to keep hidden at Domhain, a school for Chanellers and the 'less powerful' Keepers. There are so many levels of tensions and conflicts in this book and it was definitely what drove me to keep reading. Every day I looked forward to picking up the book and finding out what was going to happen next, anticipating the moment when the truth spilled out. The only part I struggled with, despite the rest of the vividness and believability in the world, was Senan's character. One of the young chanellers at the school. I felt he became cruel to quickly, a bit too eager to harm others, considering when they first got to the school it was noted that the indoctrination was supposed to be 'subtle'. It wasn't for him, I felt, which felt a little jarring at times. Aside from this, Eadha's humanity, and the vivid descriptions brought this world to life, grounding it in reality. I highly recommend it and am really looking forward to the next book in the series!
The Stone Keep is a brilliant book about how power can consume a person and turn them to cruelty and selfishness, and how outsiders desperately try to fight it. When Eadha discovers she has the gift of Channeling, a gift rarely found in those outside of the rich and powerful families, she is forced to hide it. However her generosity and selflessness leads her towards lies and secrets that she fights to keep hidden at Domhain, a school for Chanellers and the 'less powerful' Keepers. There are so many levels of tensions and conflicts in this book and it was definitely what drove me to keep reading. Every day I looked forward to picking up the book and finding out what was going to happen next, anticipating the moment when the truth spilled out. The only part I struggled with, despite the rest of the vividness and believability in the world, was Senan's character. One of the young chanellers at the school. I felt he became cruel to quickly, a bit too eager to harm others, considering when they first got to the school it was noted that the indoctrination was supposed to be 'subtle'. It wasn't for him, I felt, which felt a little jarring at times. Aside from this, Eadha's humanity, and the vivid descriptions brought this world to life, grounding it in reality. I highly recommend it and am really looking forward to the next book in the series!
November 22, 2021
This was such a beautiful read, I loved everything about it! It starts off with a great childhood friendship, between Ionain and Eadha and follows their relationship as they set off to learn how to use their powers. It is so poignant a tale of the two, I fell in love with both from the onset. Even though Ionain is above her station, he is a Lord's son and she is a servant, their friendship is firm and fast, both loyal to a fault, although I did find myself questioning Ionain's loyalty at times, although this actually made the tale more interesting, I was going through an array of emotions at some of his actions. And Eadha, she's impetus and vows to protect and aid Ionain at any cost but that cost is to her detriment. I enjoyed how the storyline developed, how well paced the plot is, my attention never wained, from start to finish, in this vividly descriptive tale. And when a dragon enter the mix, I'm in 7th heaven! I found Eadhas' journey, her inner turmoil, her elation, her There are the notorious bad guys but even they are credible in their perceptions and actions, as deplorable as they are. As Eadha's power grows, her secret is discovered and everything comes crashing down, her promise to conceal who she is, her resolution to help Ionain, all lead to a dramatic conclusion, with the promise of even greater things to come. Sooooo good!
January 11, 2022
I expected another fantasy novel exploring ambition and greed, where magic is pulled from one’s health and the mc “chosen one” struggles balancing the weight of the world against their life. I was wrong. Eadha, such a wellrounded main character, is a relatable yet untouchable. She isn’t perfect, adding so many levels to the moral discussion. She isn’t chosen. She’s tempted. She’s us, doing the best we can jn the system we’ve built.
The magic system is expertly crafted and thought provoking, one of my favorites ever. I love that the system is wrong, the history and scholars and masters are WRONG. And it’s intentional. They know. It’s built for the powerful by the powerful. It subdues the ruled, and also the rulers. If I could, I’d make everyone read this book and think very hard about their life choices and our own system. What do you choose to do, revel in, abstain from, boycott, waste? Do you choose to see the Fodder you drain?
I could go on and on and on. Rarely do you see a fantasy say this much about reality. I’m left with only one question: when’s the sequel coming out?
The magic system is expertly crafted and thought provoking, one of my favorites ever. I love that the system is wrong, the history and scholars and masters are WRONG. And it’s intentional. They know. It’s built for the powerful by the powerful. It subdues the ruled, and also the rulers. If I could, I’d make everyone read this book and think very hard about their life choices and our own system. What do you choose to do, revel in, abstain from, boycott, waste? Do you choose to see the Fodder you drain?
I could go on and on and on. Rarely do you see a fantasy say this much about reality. I’m left with only one question: when’s the sequel coming out?
November 19, 2021
Read as a volunteer advanced reader :)
3.75 stars
The characters are interesting and the pronunciation guide for their names at the end of the book was extremely helpful! I greatly enjoyed the magic system as it is unlike anything I have seen before in similar books of the genre, and the links to folklore etc were intriguing. There is a unique take on ‘magic schools’ and learning which i think worked very well. Most characters were well fleshed out, however did seem to act much older than they are, but that may be attributed to the more serious content. It did feel very fast paced, but that isn’t to its detriment. I think once I actually got into it I was finished in a little under two hours. Overall, The Stone Keep was a gripping and enjoyable book
3.75 stars
The characters are interesting and the pronunciation guide for their names at the end of the book was extremely helpful! I greatly enjoyed the magic system as it is unlike anything I have seen before in similar books of the genre, and the links to folklore etc were intriguing. There is a unique take on ‘magic schools’ and learning which i think worked very well. Most characters were well fleshed out, however did seem to act much older than they are, but that may be attributed to the more serious content. It did feel very fast paced, but that isn’t to its detriment. I think once I actually got into it I was finished in a little under two hours. Overall, The Stone Keep was a gripping and enjoyable book
November 22, 2021
The Stone Keep is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it from start to finish. I had some concerns about the pacing being too quick and certain elements being explained repeatedly, but I ended up appreciating the movement and noticing the repetition drop off. The characters are complex in a way that made me need to keep reading, though I potentially wish we could’ve seen into more minds. My favourite element, though, was the world-building. I found this world engrossing, intriguing, and original. With this novel, multiple times I thought I knew what was going to happen, but I was pleasantly surprised with twists and turns. I cannot wait to read more.
**This book was gifted to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
**This book was gifted to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
January 14, 2022
All I could think about while reading this book was "why in the world have I never heard anyone talking about this before???" First of all, the writing was exquisite, lyrical and easy to read - really helping in conveying the story's magical feel. S.K. Marley's work of incorporating Irish Mythology and lore was so thoughtfully done, something I've never read about before. And let me say I felt all of the emotions while reading this book - frustration, joy, and HEART ACHE OMG. By the end, I found myself rooting for a couple I originally didn't like and I was SHOCKED because I was so against them being together. Honestly read this book - all I can say is wow, I need the sequel ASAP. Easily a new favorite.
4.5 ⭐️
4.5 ⭐️
November 19, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. The story is so original, it's richly imagined, beautifully written, well-paced, exciting, and – most of all – incredibly inspiring and full of interesting
parallels with so many issues surrounding us today. The ending was especially
brilliant, I was literally cheering Eadha on, and every twist and turn of her adventure
surprised me more than the last - I love when you don't see the ending coming! I can't wait to find out what happens next, and I'm especially excited that we get to see the world of the Masters from Ionain & Gry's perspectives, as well as Eadha's, in Book 2.
parallels with so many issues surrounding us today. The ending was especially
brilliant, I was literally cheering Eadha on, and every twist and turn of her adventure
surprised me more than the last - I love when you don't see the ending coming! I can't wait to find out what happens next, and I'm especially excited that we get to see the world of the Masters from Ionain & Gry's perspectives, as well as Eadha's, in Book 2.
December 1, 2021
I’m fairly new to reading fantasy and wasn’t sure it was a genre I’d ever enjoy as much as some others but this book might just have made a fantasy fan out of me! It honestly blew me away and I can’t stop thinking about it weeks after finishing it! If you love strong female protagonists, magic and dragons then you’re going to love this
The world building was done so effortlessly and the author kept the tension building throughout the book. I was holding my breath during the last few chapters as it led towards an explosive ending.
I think this is a must read for anyone who loves reading fantasy and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the 2nd book. I really can’t wait to see where the series goes.
The world building was done so effortlessly and the author kept the tension building throughout the book. I was holding my breath during the last few chapters as it led towards an explosive ending.
I think this is a must read for anyone who loves reading fantasy and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the 2nd book. I really can’t wait to see where the series goes.
April 1, 2022
Fantasy is not normally my thing - outside the realm of Tokien at least. This was fun though and drew me in. It's the combination of the well drawn and sympathetic characters, the fantastic world building and the vague Celtic ambiance. Mind you anything with dragons is always going to work! The plot really appealed and towards the end it became a real page turner. She's constructed a believable and interesting world. A minor niggle was the introduction of chocolate and tomatoes which didn't get to any part of Europe until Cortes returned to Spain in 1525.
November 22, 2021
Marlay has done an incredible job with The Stone Keep, drawing the reader deep inside the world of the channellers. The characters are realistic, both the main plot and the subplots are great, and Marlay's blend of science and magic with channelling is genius. I was so hooked I stayed up half the night reading it.
Full Disclosure: I received a copy as an advance reader.
Full Disclosure: I received a copy as an advance reader.
November 28, 2021
This book was a joy to read. The first book of the author's series, we are slowly introduced into a world where the power is held by select group of powerful men. As we see the world through the main character's view, we only understand the politics, cities, and happenings through her eyes.
The protagonist, Eadha is a powerful character. She loves so deeply that she chooses to sacrifice herself to make her beloved happy. She uncovers lies, undergoes mistreatment, and many hardships, but through it all, her love of others remains constant and her underlying motivation. I would love to see what the author does to make this character bloom.
The protagonist, Eadha is a powerful character. She loves so deeply that she chooses to sacrifice herself to make her beloved happy. She uncovers lies, undergoes mistreatment, and many hardships, but through it all, her love of others remains constant and her underlying motivation. I would love to see what the author does to make this character bloom.
November 19, 2021
I loved this! Such a great heroine, and really makes you think of all that is wrong with today's world, but lightly done and never preachy. The last bit of the book really takes off and I'm waiting for the sequel. There's gonna be a sequel right!?
December 25, 2021
Very folkloric with a fairytale feel. It was sometimes frustrating in places, but only because you were so invested in the characters and their relationships.
It reminded me of a mixture between Mercedes Lackey and the Magicians apprentice by Trudi Canavan.
It reminded me of a mixture between Mercedes Lackey and the Magicians apprentice by Trudi Canavan.
December 31, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
The author creates a fantastic and plausible world for the characters to inhabit.
I an really looking forward to the second installment!
The author creates a fantastic and plausible world for the characters to inhabit.
I an really looking forward to the second installment!
February 16, 2022
TW: slavery, violence, attempted sexual assault
I loved this book. It’s told in third person but in a very lyrical style. It’s a fantasy world but with lots of Irish influences. Reading it felt like listening to folklore being passed down. Truly beautiful writing.
Eadha is an amazing protagonist. She’s very complex. She’s brave and impulsive and naive and strong and smart and so so talented. Her point of view is a great one to be in.
This book touches on a lot of very important issues including power and hierarchy and erasure of history in addition to friendship and love. It’s one of those books where there’s A LOT going on but it’s so easy to follow and understand because the story and the characters are fantastic. And there’s dragons!!
I wouldn’t call it a slow read, but it’s not always action packed like some other high fantasy is. But I loved it. You get to know the world and the people in it and their history and lore. The ending is wild and although I know it’s setting up book two, I wish it had gone on just a bit longer before ending. That being said, I cannot wait for the next one. I’m hooked on this series!
I loved this book. It’s told in third person but in a very lyrical style. It’s a fantasy world but with lots of Irish influences. Reading it felt like listening to folklore being passed down. Truly beautiful writing.
Eadha is an amazing protagonist. She’s very complex. She’s brave and impulsive and naive and strong and smart and so so talented. Her point of view is a great one to be in.
This book touches on a lot of very important issues including power and hierarchy and erasure of history in addition to friendship and love. It’s one of those books where there’s A LOT going on but it’s so easy to follow and understand because the story and the characters are fantastic. And there’s dragons!!
I wouldn’t call it a slow read, but it’s not always action packed like some other high fantasy is. But I loved it. You get to know the world and the people in it and their history and lore. The ending is wild and although I know it’s setting up book two, I wish it had gone on just a bit longer before ending. That being said, I cannot wait for the next one. I’m hooked on this series!
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