Review: Stone & Sky by Z.S. Diamanti
Blurb:
First book in the award-winning classic style epic fantasy adventure series.
Come fly away on griffin-back!
Fly off to the world of Finlestia in this epic fantasy story for readers looking for adventure, magic, and just plain fun; a tale where friendships must overcome insurmountable odds and remind readers to never lose hope.
From across the sea, a shadow rises. A lone survivor may be the kingdom’s only hope against annihilation.
Orin is a sworn protector. As a stalwart member of the Griffin Guard, he’s proud to protect the kingdom against a dreaded nation of orcs. But when the fires of war burn bright from the north, his entire squadron falls to deadly wyvern riders, leaving the devastated Orin bloody and alone.
With his squad dead, Orin has his mind set on saving others from the same fate.
Teaming up with a local huntsman’s family, Orin and his new friends must push themselves past their limits to face mysterious dangers and ancient magics. Shocked to discover the orcs’ secret weapon, the lone guardian’s last chance to save his home could require the ultimate sacrifice.
Buy Stone & Sky to join the battle today!
Review:
“Stone & Sky” by Z.S. Diamanti is a delightful gem sitting on my bookshelf. Thanks to the author himself for sending me a review copy—thanks, Zach!
The physical copy is a beauty, meticulously formatted, making it a joy to read. Zach also generously included the "Stone & Sky Collection," a companion set of short stories meant to be read alongside the main book. Each story in the collection comes with a helpful "time stamp" indicating the optimal point in the main book to read it, adding layers of depth and insight into the characters and their motivations. It’s a nice touch that enhances the reading experience without being mandatory. The novel stands on its own perfectly well, but if you decide to dive into the collection too, you’ll get a richer understanding of the lore and personal backstories.
The story kicks off with our hero—a Griffin rider, no less—surviving a harrowing battle. He’s saved by a beautiful red-haired maiden with a smile that could melt ice caps. What follows is a classic epic fantasy adventure, with a mix of human and orc conflicts, aerial battles on griffins and wyverns, and a mysterious war brewing in the background. The protagonist’s journey from confusion and fear to finding his place in this richly crafted world is compelling. The introduction of the girl and her family is smoothly done, revealing more about the world’s intricate lore bit by bit.
The protagonists are endearing. Their imperfections, fears, and moments of vulnerability make them relatable. They’re the kind of characters you root for, even when you know they might have an annoyingly straight nose and perfect hair.
The storytelling in "Stone & Sky" has a classic feel, reminiscent of the epic fantasy tales of the '80s and '90s, with a modern, fast-paced twist. Diamanti’s writing is cinematic, bombastic, and thoroughly engaging. The pacing is brisk, making the book a page-turner. The world-building is lush and colorful, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the comforting aesthetics of high fantasy, but with a modern touch that keeps it fresh and exciting.
One minor quirk of "Stone & Sky" is that the narration occasionally slips from an immersive third-person perspective to an omniscient narrator, creating a few confusing moments. However, these instances are not frequent enough to disrupt the overall enjoyment of the story.
The ending doesn’t break new ground, but it leaves a lasting impression. It’s the kind of ending that ensures you’ll be back for more, even if it leaves you slightly spooked.
What truly sets the book apart is the palpable love and passion poured into its pages; readers will definitely feel the dedication and enthusiasm radiating from every chapter.
"Stone & Sky" is a fantastic read that captures the essence of classic epic fantasy while infusing it with a modern sensibility. The additional stories in the "Stone & Sky Collection" enrich the narrative without bogging it down. If you’re a fan of epic tales filled with aerial battles, gripping personal journeys, and a touch of nostalgia, this book is for you. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good, fast-paced fantasy adventure. Give it a try, and if you enjoy it as much as I did, you’ll be reaching for the sequel in no time!
