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secre's review
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Having finished Where Shadows Lie on a high, Whispers of Stone starts off almost exactly where it left off. With Eleanor and Gabriel thrown together in the wake of her father's death and her part in it, Fedrik and Fay stuck in the new chaos of the desert in the wake of the death of a God and Daemon doing... well, Daemon things. He is a law unto himself. We also get a new perspective that widens the perspective further.
What I found really impressive here was how the plot expands and the narrative threads come together in unexpected ways, with betrayals, treacheries and the explosion of politics and intrigue. Eleanor's narrative is particularly well done, as the domino's start falling and she finds herself embroiled in other people's plots even as she tries to find her own footing as regent. The world expands as other countries are brought into play and there's a wealth of background and context without ever feeling like an info dump.
And the characters continue to grow and develop, all of them with their own personal - and sometimes cosmic - struggles. I loved how the relationships between characters - some of whom were very much at odds in the last novel - develop. There are no perfect characters here, everyone is wholly human, they have flaws and make mistakes and learn from them. And the new characters introduced were all vividly brought to life, from the frankly evil Aunt Sianta to Eleanor's betrothed.
All in all, this is an excellent sequel that had me immediately grabbing the third novel in the series.
What I found really impressive here was how the plot expands and the narrative threads come together in unexpected ways, with betrayals, treacheries and the explosion of politics and intrigue. Eleanor's narrative is particularly well done, as the domino's start falling and she finds herself embroiled in other people's plots even as she tries to find her own footing as regent. The world expands as other countries are brought into play and there's a wealth of background and context without ever feeling like an info dump.
And the characters continue to grow and develop, all of them with their own personal - and sometimes cosmic - struggles. I loved how the relationships between characters - some of whom were very much at odds in the last novel - develop. There are no perfect characters here, everyone is wholly human, they have flaws and make mistakes and learn from them. And the new characters introduced were all vividly brought to life, from the frankly evil Aunt Sianta to Eleanor's betrothed.
All in all, this is an excellent sequel that had me immediately grabbing the third novel in the series.
kittyg's review
4.0
I picked this one up after having read the first one pretty recently. I definitely enjoyed being back in the world and seeing our characters again. Elenor has come a long way from the spoilt child she came off as in book 1 and I have enjoyed following her progress through this book where she really had to step up and be a leader.
Daemon is a character I still find mysterious but I think we’ve seen more of his character coming through as we see what he fights so hard to protect and why he’s so guarded. He’s a loveable yet ominous character with an awful lot of power and I think in the next book he will be a force to be reckoned with if he can stay alive. There seems to be a lot of gods and people annoyed with him at all times, so it’ll be a test of whether he can last!
Gabriel is a character I think we see a lot more of in this book. Previously he was talked about a lot but this one shows us more of his upbringing and life and how he came to be the person he is. He’s caring and sweet and definitely someone who is on the brink of greatness with unlocking his magic.
Claire, Paul and the other side characters get more fleshing out here too which I liked seeing. They are all quite well rounded despite being noble and privileged and they’re always there to help with the drama of court that Eleanor has to navigate.
Fedrik and Fay are kind of on their own training/learning journeys in this one. They felt a bit distant to me even though their plots promise big things to come in future.
North kind of just annoyed me in this one as he’s a bit too much of a goody-two-shoes for my liking but I think he will come around with time.
The plot was exciting and quite political in this. We focus a lot on the drama between the different kingdoms, including scheming neighbour kingdoms, and the way that the “palace gang” (my way of talking about Eleanor, Gabriel, Claire, Paul, Eric etc) are fighting just to survive.
We do also have god-drama but this seems to be building up to a bigger climax and in fact the ending of this one felt pretty sudden and abrupt to me as I felt like there was a lot left open and I wanted a little more resolution. It does make me keen to read the next one though. 4*s in the end.
Daemon is a character I still find mysterious but I think we’ve seen more of his character coming through as we see what he fights so hard to protect and why he’s so guarded. He’s a loveable yet ominous character with an awful lot of power and I think in the next book he will be a force to be reckoned with if he can stay alive. There seems to be a lot of gods and people annoyed with him at all times, so it’ll be a test of whether he can last!
Gabriel is a character I think we see a lot more of in this book. Previously he was talked about a lot but this one shows us more of his upbringing and life and how he came to be the person he is. He’s caring and sweet and definitely someone who is on the brink of greatness with unlocking his magic.
Claire, Paul and the other side characters get more fleshing out here too which I liked seeing. They are all quite well rounded despite being noble and privileged and they’re always there to help with the drama of court that Eleanor has to navigate.
Fedrik and Fay are kind of on their own training/learning journeys in this one. They felt a bit distant to me even though their plots promise big things to come in future.
North kind of just annoyed me in this one as he’s a bit too much of a goody-two-shoes for my liking but I think he will come around with time.
The plot was exciting and quite political in this. We focus a lot on the drama between the different kingdoms, including scheming neighbour kingdoms, and the way that the “palace gang” (my way of talking about Eleanor, Gabriel, Claire, Paul, Eric etc) are fighting just to survive.
We do also have god-drama but this seems to be building up to a bigger climax and in fact the ending of this one felt pretty sudden and abrupt to me as I felt like there was a lot left open and I wanted a little more resolution. It does make me keen to read the next one though. 4*s in the end.
margaretadelle's review
4.0
The ending of the first book was explosive, so I was happy to accept a review copy of this one!
Admittedly, I am not the best judge of high fantasy worldbuilding. The world of this series is highly complex with centuries of history impacting the story's politics. I was confused a lot of the time about what was going on and what different historical events meant. It didn't help that I'd waited a year between reading installments. As a result, I didn't take off any stars for said confusion. Someone who has a better grasp on high fantasy worldbuilding (and doesn't put off reading sequels) will probably be a lot less confused.
The plot of this book was much slower compared to it's predecessor. It's primarily concerned with the fall out of all the giant events that took place at the end of the first. As a result, very few big things happen in this book. It more relies on dissecting and analyzing everything that happened in the previous book and how the world has changed as a result of it. The book suffered a bit from "second book syndrome." At times, it felt more interested in parsing the plot points of the previous book and setting up the tension of the next book more than having any major plot points of it's own. And that's the biggest reason I took off a star.
However, even as the book can feel as if it's spinning it's wheels at times, there is a wonderful tension to everything. There are plenty of situations set up where the reader knows certain things are inevitable, but in a way that invites excitement. The reader knows certain things will be revealed and characters long since separated will be reunited and it leads to a delightful anticipation of what's to come. Even if I wish at least one of those things had happened in this book.
Probably the most impressive part of the story is the fact that the author built up an impressive romantic web and I don't hate it. I usually avoid love triangles like the plague. But this thing has a love octagon that I'm highly invested in. I credit that to the author establishing that polyamory exists in this world (at least in certain cultures). The narrative also shows that the characters have a much more pragmatic view with the way their relationships will have to work, within the confines of the world they live in. And unlike most love triangles, where it is painfully obvious that a specific character will be chosen as the love interest, the book doesn't give away it's cards for who's going to end up with who. Or multiple who's. It, again, makes for great tension.
All in all, while I wish the book had a bit more happening plot-wise, I have to admit the promise of plot to come is incredibly tempting.. and also I want a fluffy dragon, please.
Admittedly, I am not the best judge of high fantasy worldbuilding. The world of this series is highly complex with centuries of history impacting the story's politics. I was confused a lot of the time about what was going on and what different historical events meant. It didn't help that I'd waited a year between reading installments. As a result, I didn't take off any stars for said confusion. Someone who has a better grasp on high fantasy worldbuilding (and doesn't put off reading sequels) will probably be a lot less confused.
The plot of this book was much slower compared to it's predecessor. It's primarily concerned with the fall out of all the giant events that took place at the end of the first. As a result, very few big things happen in this book. It more relies on dissecting and analyzing everything that happened in the previous book and how the world has changed as a result of it. The book suffered a bit from "second book syndrome." At times, it felt more interested in parsing the plot points of the previous book and setting up the tension of the next book more than having any major plot points of it's own. And that's the biggest reason I took off a star.
However, even as the book can feel as if it's spinning it's wheels at times, there is a wonderful tension to everything. There are plenty of situations set up where the reader knows certain things are inevitable, but in a way that invites excitement. The reader knows certain things will be revealed and characters long since separated will be reunited and it leads to a delightful anticipation of what's to come. Even if I wish at least one of those things had happened in this book.
Probably the most impressive part of the story is the fact that the author built up an impressive romantic web and I don't hate it. I usually avoid love triangles like the plague. But this thing has a love octagon that I'm highly invested in. I credit that to the author establishing that polyamory exists in this world (at least in certain cultures). The narrative also shows that the characters have a much more pragmatic view with the way their relationships will have to work, within the confines of the world they live in. And unlike most love triangles, where it is painfully obvious that a specific character will be chosen as the love interest, the book doesn't give away it's cards for who's going to end up with who. Or multiple who's. It, again, makes for great tension.
All in all, while I wish the book had a bit more happening plot-wise, I have to admit the promise of plot to come is incredibly tempting.. and also I want a fluffy dragon, please.
oola0808's review
5.0
I'm in awe, all over again, with the incredible talent of Allegra Pescatore. I still can't figure out why more people aren't talking about this series.
I've been listening to this series on Audible, and the narration is fantastic! Marian Hussey takes an already engaging story and uses her incredible voice talent to give the characters even more vibrancy.
No one in this series is perfect, and I love that their flaws and mistakes allow them to grow and make them much more realistic. I've read plenty of fantasy novels where the protagonists can do no wrong, and it's so dull. I want every decision they make to have real consequences that affect the story.
I'm immediately diving into "These Gossamer Strings", and I can't wait to hear what's in store!
I've been listening to this series on Audible, and the narration is fantastic! Marian Hussey takes an already engaging story and uses her incredible voice talent to give the characters even more vibrancy.
No one in this series is perfect, and I love that their flaws and mistakes allow them to grow and make them much more realistic. I've read plenty of fantasy novels where the protagonists can do no wrong, and it's so dull. I want every decision they make to have real consequences that affect the story.
I'm immediately diving into "These Gossamer Strings", and I can't wait to hear what's in store!
kmartbooks's review
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Whispers of Stone by Allegra Pescatore continues to deliver on ALL fronts, weaving an intricate tale of political intrigue, deep-seated family secrets, and epic fantasy adventure. This second installment in The Last Gift series ramps up the tension, while still allowing for some truly heartfelt and introspective moments. Love these characters SO MUCH.
One of the things that stood out to me in this book is the masterful way in which the story’s multiple threads are woven together. There’s a lot happening, but all of the different elements are balanced. It’s fascinating to see characters navigate this tangled web, often discussing situations without knowing all the pieces, which creates these little pangs of empathy and anticipation as a reader. You know more than the characters do, and it’s both thrilling and a bit agonizing to watch them navigate their own labyrinth of lies and secrets.
Characters are at the heart of this book, which is absolutely something I adore. Gabriel and Elenor’s reluctant alliance and Fed and Faye's understanding are both highlights for me. Then there's Daemon, who remains my greatest love. I continue to adore him—his unpredictable nature, and morally gray stance, and DEEP guilt about his past mean that you never quite know where he stands or what he might do next.
And let's not forget the world-building. This series does a fantastic job of advancing and expanding on its setting. The politics are wonderful. And, seriously? Who wouldn’t love a baby mock dragon? The stakes are high and the world is incredibly rich.
Overall, Whispers of Stone is intense, filled with high-stakes drama, moral quandaries, and ever-evolving relationships. It leaves you constantly guessing. The ride is only getting wilder!
One of the things that stood out to me in this book is the masterful way in which the story’s multiple threads are woven together. There’s a lot happening, but all of the different elements are balanced. It’s fascinating to see characters navigate this tangled web, often discussing situations without knowing all the pieces, which creates these little pangs of empathy and anticipation as a reader. You know more than the characters do, and it’s both thrilling and a bit agonizing to watch them navigate their own labyrinth of lies and secrets.
Characters are at the heart of this book, which is absolutely something I adore. Gabriel and Elenor’s reluctant alliance and Fed and Faye's understanding are both highlights for me. Then there's Daemon, who remains my greatest love. I continue to adore him—his unpredictable nature, and morally gray stance, and DEEP guilt about his past mean that you never quite know where he stands or what he might do next.
And let's not forget the world-building. This series does a fantastic job of advancing and expanding on its setting. The politics are wonderful. And, seriously? Who wouldn’t love a baby mock dragon? The stakes are high and the world is incredibly rich.
Overall, Whispers of Stone is intense, filled with high-stakes drama, moral quandaries, and ever-evolving relationships. It leaves you constantly guessing. The ride is only getting wilder!
katbenimble's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I absolutely loved this 2nd installment of The Last Gift series. There were so many twists and turns and the E M O T I O N S. The villains are deplorable and there were a few moments that I was yelling, "Fuck you" in the car to the audiobook. Haha. I still absolutely love the world-building, love the characters, love the magic. I can't even imagine how this is going to end and I can't wait to read the 3rd book.
Content Warnings
Minor: Sexual assault
egswriter's review
5.0
If you haven’t read book one of Allegra Pescatore’s The Last Gift books, then I definitely recommend you do, because this book will not make much sense otherwise. If you have read the first book, though, then you will absolutely love this sequel.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This book picks up right after Where Shadows Lie, and my goodness, let me tell you the drama is intense. I had almost forgotten what was going on in book one, but once I remembered, I was eager to get right back into the story and see our characters. In essense, the Lirion king is dead and the queen is missing, leaving Elenor in charge with political hyenas nipping at her heels. The death of the Red dragon has left chaos in its wake and the Gatekeeper is trying to control powers that were difficult at best to control. Meanwhile, there is scheming from all sides and by forces that have been meddling behind the scenes since the beginning. I can say no more without serious spoilers, but I can say that this book is one of those that weaves a magical and rich tapestry, threads interconnecting and knotting together in wonderful ways.
2. Thoughts on the characters
While the plot is richly complex and detailed, the characters are what really make the story for me. I am thrilled to have so many characters who struggle with issues that come from within themselves as well as without. It makes them relatable and real and makes each struggle they have so much more intense for me. Elenor is my favourite (not that the others aren’t wonderful) and I cannot wait for the third book, where I fully expect she will kick some tailfeathers.
3. Favourite part
I was going to say the character growth, and while that is truly magnificent, it pales in comparison to the baby mock dragon. Because, let’s be honest, I really want one.
4. Critique
My only real critique is to do with me not remembering events of book one. I had a hard time getting caught up on what was happening and who was where, since most of this book doesn’t reference the first except to move forwards. Perfectly fine as far as construction goes, but it’s been a while since I read the first book and it took me a minute. Definitely recommend reading this book shortly after the first, unless you have a prodigious memory.
Overall, I would say that Whispers of Stone is another great book by an author who manages to weave words and characters together to make a story so complex and real that you can’t help but be swept away. Excellent.
1. Thoughts on the plot
This book picks up right after Where Shadows Lie, and my goodness, let me tell you the drama is intense. I had almost forgotten what was going on in book one, but once I remembered, I was eager to get right back into the story and see our characters. In essense, the Lirion king is dead and the queen is missing, leaving Elenor in charge with political hyenas nipping at her heels. The death of the Red dragon has left chaos in its wake and the Gatekeeper is trying to control powers that were difficult at best to control. Meanwhile, there is scheming from all sides and by forces that have been meddling behind the scenes since the beginning. I can say no more without serious spoilers, but I can say that this book is one of those that weaves a magical and rich tapestry, threads interconnecting and knotting together in wonderful ways.
2. Thoughts on the characters
While the plot is richly complex and detailed, the characters are what really make the story for me. I am thrilled to have so many characters who struggle with issues that come from within themselves as well as without. It makes them relatable and real and makes each struggle they have so much more intense for me. Elenor is my favourite (not that the others aren’t wonderful) and I cannot wait for the third book, where I fully expect she will kick some tailfeathers.
3. Favourite part
I was going to say the character growth, and while that is truly magnificent, it pales in comparison to the baby mock dragon. Because, let’s be honest, I really want one.
4. Critique
My only real critique is to do with me not remembering events of book one. I had a hard time getting caught up on what was happening and who was where, since most of this book doesn’t reference the first except to move forwards. Perfectly fine as far as construction goes, but it’s been a while since I read the first book and it took me a minute. Definitely recommend reading this book shortly after the first, unless you have a prodigious memory.
Overall, I would say that Whispers of Stone is another great book by an author who manages to weave words and characters together to make a story so complex and real that you can’t help but be swept away. Excellent.
thehamsterreads's review
5.0
This series is amazing! I really enjoyed the first book, but I think I liked this one even more since it was a bit faster paced and I knew most of the characters already. I love the detailed world and magic, they are both fascinating to read about. And I also love the characters. The story is told from many POVs and I like all of them, especially Fedrick and Fay. Each character is their own person with their own flaws and strengths and motives which makes them seem very real. There are some morally grey characters here if you are into that. I’ve also read that there are some tie ins to other books by the author, so I’m going to have to pick up NACL: Eye of the Storm now to see what I’m missing. This is truly a series of epic fantasy and I can’t recommend it enough!
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review.