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Tales of Goldstone Wood #3
Moonblood
Desperate to regain the trust of his kingdom, Prince Lionheart reluctantly banishes his faithful servant and only friend, Rose Red. Now she is lost in the hidden realm of Arpiar, held captive by her evil goblin father, King Vahe.
Vowing to redeem himself, Lionheart plunges into the mysterious Goldstone Wood, seeking Rose Red. In strange other worlds, Lionheart must face a lyrical yet lethal tiger, a fallen unicorn, and a goblin horde on his quest to rescue the girl he betrayed.
With the Night of Moonblood fast approaching--when King Vahe seeks to wake the Dragon's sleeping children--Lionheart must discover whether or not his heart contains courage before it's too late for Rose Red...and all those he loves.
Vowing to redeem himself, Lionheart plunges into the mysterious Goldstone Wood, seeking Rose Red. In strange other worlds, Lionheart must face a lyrical yet lethal tiger, a fallen unicorn, and a goblin horde on his quest to rescue the girl he betrayed.
With the Night of Moonblood fast approaching--when King Vahe seeks to wake the Dragon's sleeping children--Lionheart must discover whether or not his heart contains courage before it's too late for Rose Red...and all those he loves.
373 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2012
20 people are currently reading
1878 people want to read
About the author
Anne Elisabeth Stengl
20 books807 followersAnne Elisabeth Stengl makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a passel of cats, and one long-suffering dog. When she's not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and studies piano, painting, and pastry baking. She studied illustration at Grace College and English literature at Campbell University. She is the author of the TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD, which currently includes seven novels and two novellas, with plenty more works due to release over the next few years. Her novels HEARTLESS, VEILED ROSE, and DRAGONWITCH have each been honored with a Christy Award, and STARFLOWER was voted winner of the 2013 Clive Staples Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
March 17, 2019
March 2019:
This is actually my fourth time reading this one? And wow, it’s so good to revisit this story. I remembered nearly everything, but this story...my goodness, it’s like coming home. My sweet, sweet babies. *hugs them allllll* *except Vahe he totally deserves what he got*
UPDATE FOR JULY '17 REREAD:
It's still so beautiful and I will never get over it. It didn't lose anything on the second read (except that I knew a couple of the plot twists.)
Shrieky fangirly review: [insert here]
Okay, I'm out now. *drops mic*
MAY '17 ORIGINAL REVIEW
My feels are crushed.
My ships are sinking.
My heart is broken.
And yet this is one of the best books of the year.
The books have gotten progressively better, too. Heartless was good but not great, Veiled Rose was better, and now Moonblood is the best thing EVER. This means Starflower must be the best book in history. XD
Some things I loved:
-Everything
-Rose Red/ Varvare. She's one of my all time favorite characters now.
-Leo. He just gets better with every book. I despised him in the first one, tolerated him in the second, and now... *huggles Leo* Ooohhhh, I love this author.
-I adore Ragniprava and Vahe and Anahid as villains too.
-The unicorn was kind of amazing too. I hated it... and then loved it... I think I ended up loving it?
-And Eanrin. Oh my word. I love him so much . He is my favorite. I can't wait for Starflower. He's like the main character in that one.
-Imraldera and Oeric and King Iubdan and Felix and... the characters are the best.
-The Night of Moonblood. Stengl has a way of befuddling me so that I have no idea what the plot twists will be? And it's kind of amazing?
What I didn't like:
-that one plot twist?
-The fact that my ships are sinking? And I think Stengl isn't writing any more Goldstone Wood books, which means... I'll never find out if my ship is going to work. *sobs*
Finally: Read it. Please. Read the other ones too, but please, read them. You won't regret it.
This is actually my fourth time reading this one? And wow, it’s so good to revisit this story. I remembered nearly everything, but this story...my goodness, it’s like coming home. My sweet, sweet babies. *hugs them allllll* *except Vahe he totally deserves what he got*
UPDATE FOR JULY '17 REREAD:
It's still so beautiful and I will never get over it. It didn't lose anything on the second read (except that I knew a couple of the plot twists.)
Shrieky fangirly review: [insert here]
Okay, I'm out now. *drops mic*
MAY '17 ORIGINAL REVIEW
My feels are crushed.
My ships are sinking.
My heart is broken.
And yet this is one of the best books of the year.
The books have gotten progressively better, too. Heartless was good but not great, Veiled Rose was better, and now Moonblood is the best thing EVER. This means Starflower must be the best book in history. XD
Some things I loved:
-Everything
-Rose Red/ Varvare. She's one of my all time favorite characters now.
-Leo. He just gets better with every book. I despised him in the first one, tolerated him in the second, and now... *huggles Leo* Ooohhhh, I love this author.
-I adore Ragniprava and Vahe and Anahid as villains too.
-The unicorn was kind of amazing too. I hated it... and then loved it... I think I ended up loving it?
-And Eanrin. Oh my word. I love him so much . He is my favorite. I can't wait for Starflower. He's like the main character in that one.
-Imraldera and Oeric and King Iubdan and Felix and... the characters are the best.
-The Night of Moonblood. Stengl has a way of befuddling me so that I have no idea what the plot twists will be? And it's kind of amazing?
What I didn't like:
-that one plot twist?
-The fact that my ships are sinking? And I think Stengl isn't writing any more Goldstone Wood books, which means... I'll never find out if my ship is going to work. *sobs*
Finally: Read it. Please. Read the other ones too, but please, read them. You won't regret it.
October 2, 2019
Very few fantasy books, or fiction books in general, have stirred my heart and soul and emotions the way this book has.
January 22, 2019
This book was so amazing and powerful! I cannot put into words how beautiful it was. Y'all just need to read it for yourselves!! You will not regret it!!
May 25, 2017
Updated review: "We bless the name of he who sits Enthroned beyond the Highlands.
We bless his name and sing in answer
To the song he gave." -The Night of Moonblood poem, page 244.
Having now read this book for a second time, my positive opinion of it still stands. The themes of redemption, forgiveness, unconditional love, true beauty, and keeping faith even when it's difficult, all shine through as brilliantly as Hymlume's children sparkling in the night sky. And yes, I did cry multiple times AGAIN, even though I knew what happens!
Actual footage of me re-reading the end of the story:
Original review (4/5/2015): Beautiful story. Made me cry multiple times. I truly loved it and I can't wait to keep reading the Tales of Goldstone Wood series so I can see what happens next and learn more about these wonderful characters and the complex worlds in which they live.
We bless his name and sing in answer
To the song he gave." -The Night of Moonblood poem, page 244.
Having now read this book for a second time, my positive opinion of it still stands. The themes of redemption, forgiveness, unconditional love, true beauty, and keeping faith even when it's difficult, all shine through as brilliantly as Hymlume's children sparkling in the night sky. And yes, I did cry multiple times AGAIN, even though I knew what happens!
Actual footage of me re-reading the end of the story:
Original review (4/5/2015): Beautiful story. Made me cry multiple times. I truly loved it and I can't wait to keep reading the Tales of Goldstone Wood series so I can see what happens next and learn more about these wonderful characters and the complex worlds in which they live.
September 10, 2016
Anne Elisabeth Stengl combines Christian allegories and spiritual truths with fantasy, adventure, a touch of romance, and mystical tales to create an enchanting series you won't want to miss!
I get wrapped up in her stories of Una, Lionheart, Rose Red, the Prince, and all the others time and time again as I read her books!
Moonblood was no exception, and I long for yet another one of the TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD.
I get wrapped up in her stories of Una, Lionheart, Rose Red, the Prince, and all the others time and time again as I read her books!
Moonblood was no exception, and I long for yet another one of the TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD.
June 27, 2017
I don't feel like writing an actual review, BUT I did kind of spill all my thoughts in the readalong thread when I read this, so I may as well just post that here as my review!
In brief:
I LOVE THIS BOOK SO SO MUCH AND IT'S MY FAVE GOLDSTONE WOOD YET AND I'M ADDICTED AND IT'S SO FAE AND PERILOUS AND BEAUTIFUL AND WELL-WRITTEN AND WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG FOR ME TO READ IT??
Also Oeric. And Eanrin. And Beana.
They my faves and I loveth them. <3
Begin spoilery thought-dump: (Please forgive fangirling or incoherency. *cough* I was just... kind of excited... >.>)
In brief:
I LOVE THIS BOOK SO SO MUCH AND IT'S MY FAVE GOLDSTONE WOOD YET AND I'M ADDICTED AND IT'S SO FAE AND PERILOUS AND BEAUTIFUL AND WELL-WRITTEN AND WHY DID IT TAKE SO LONG FOR ME TO READ IT??
Also Oeric. And Eanrin. And Beana.
They my faves and I loveth them. <3
Begin spoilery thought-dump: (Please forgive fangirling or incoherency. *cough* I was just... kind of excited... >.>)
April 4, 2012
Don't you love it when you find that book(or series) that you absolutely feel the need to gush about?! I definitely feel the need to gush about The Tales of Goldstone Wood series. My first instinct is to say that Moonblood has been my favorite book so far. In actuality, all the books are sort of one long story, though. (There's never been a huge cliffhanger, which I greatly appreciate). As much as I've loved the series after reading the first two books, it's with the addition of Moonblood that my opinion of the series has been drastically raised. I can easily see this series achieving Classic status. It has became one of my all-time favorite series EVER, and I can't wait to re-read each of these books to discover more of the hidden meanings. As all the little details and characters keep coming together, I can see the brilliance of the story. Once again, I HIGHLY recommend you read these in publication order.
Amazingly, I'm even more excited about Starflower, because it appears it will go back in time for us to read Eanrin's background story. As much as I adore most of the characters in this series, Eanrin is by far my favorite, despite his arrogant nature. I simply adore Eanrin's character! In Heartless, he only had a somewhat small part, and I don't recall him being in Veiled Rose at all. In Moonblood, we really get to know him better. Lord willing, I'm thankful I only have to wait until October, instead of a whole year to pick it up, which would break my heart!
I do want to point out that The Goldstone Wood Series is definitely Christian in nature, but it can be read completely separate from Christian thoughts if that is what you'd prefer. I'd say if you really and truly like The Chronicles of Narnia, The Goldstone Series should be right up your alley.
Amazingly, I'm even more excited about Starflower, because it appears it will go back in time for us to read Eanrin's background story. As much as I adore most of the characters in this series, Eanrin is by far my favorite, despite his arrogant nature. I simply adore Eanrin's character! In Heartless, he only had a somewhat small part, and I don't recall him being in Veiled Rose at all. In Moonblood, we really get to know him better. Lord willing, I'm thankful I only have to wait until October, instead of a whole year to pick it up, which would break my heart!
I do want to point out that The Goldstone Wood Series is definitely Christian in nature, but it can be read completely separate from Christian thoughts if that is what you'd prefer. I'd say if you really and truly like The Chronicles of Narnia, The Goldstone Series should be right up your alley.
June 3, 2015
Beautiful. That's Moonblood in one word. Beautiful. So fantastic and merry and full of vibrant, rich color, while at the same time, mysterious, mythical and solemn. It truly holds the meaning of Fantasy.
Stengl has a hilarious way of writing that just kept me smiling, and sometimes laughing. But at the same time the story is perfectly serious and more believable and real than the pages I kept turning so quickly.
It is also epic. Moonblood is a sweeping epic adventure, filled with mystery, magic and marvelous characters.
Just how many books can be epic, hilarious and beautiful at the same time?
It is also one of THE greatest works Christian Fiction ever written. A more inspiring novel would be hard to find. Inspiring, moving and uplifting, Moonblood currently takes the place of best Christian book I've ever read, save one.
The characters were also great. I love Lionheart. Rose Red is extremely likeable. The new characters were all great too. Eanrin was just fantastic. And it was so fun to see Felix again.
The worlds were just amazing. Faerie is so otherworldy, beautiful but dangerous.
Moonblood is practically perfect.
EDIT after first re-read: I'm leaving the below complaint because it was part of my original review, but it is no longer valid. Because of the comments way down there, and the fact that I just re-read it and it felt better I now don't mind and think the ending is wonderful! It IS still a bit sad, but it's a beautiful sad.
[[Unfortunately no book is really perfect. The ending was not exactly Happily Ever After. Though I felt it was fitting and how it really happened, I was not satisfied. So if you only read books that end 100 percent happily then Moonblood isn't for you. It's only 90 percent happy.]]
But I can't win every time, and for once I will accept a slightly sad ending. (This is world shattering news by the way.)
With characters, worlds and a story you will never forget, Anne Elisabeth Stengl's third Tale of Goldstone Wood will appeal to readers of all genres and ages.
Stengl has a hilarious way of writing that just kept me smiling, and sometimes laughing. But at the same time the story is perfectly serious and more believable and real than the pages I kept turning so quickly.
It is also epic. Moonblood is a sweeping epic adventure, filled with mystery, magic and marvelous characters.
Just how many books can be epic, hilarious and beautiful at the same time?
It is also one of THE greatest works Christian Fiction ever written. A more inspiring novel would be hard to find. Inspiring, moving and uplifting, Moonblood currently takes the place of best Christian book I've ever read, save one.
The characters were also great. I love Lionheart. Rose Red is extremely likeable. The new characters were all great too. Eanrin was just fantastic. And it was so fun to see Felix again.
The worlds were just amazing. Faerie is so otherworldy, beautiful but dangerous.
Moonblood is practically perfect.
EDIT after first re-read: I'm leaving the below complaint because it was part of my original review, but it is no longer valid. Because of the comments way down there, and the fact that I just re-read it and it felt better I now don't mind and think the ending is wonderful! It IS still a bit sad, but it's a beautiful sad.
[[Unfortunately no book is really perfect. The ending was not exactly Happily Ever After. Though I felt it was fitting and how it really happened, I was not satisfied. So if you only read books that end 100 percent happily then Moonblood isn't for you. It's only 90 percent happy.]]
But I can't win every time, and for once I will accept a slightly sad ending. (This is world shattering news by the way.)
With characters, worlds and a story you will never forget, Anne Elisabeth Stengl's third Tale of Goldstone Wood will appeal to readers of all genres and ages.
January 13, 2014
Oh my goodness, what can I say about this book? I guess we will start off with this:
Anne Elisabeth Stengl is a phenomenal author. Her books have such an extremely intricate plot, and it's amazing how she weaves everything together.
There were so many times that I felt like throwing the book at the wall. This is because of how masterfully imperfect the characters are- seriously they defy all stereotypes. As vexing as it was, all the flaws and mistakes made by the characters are so refreshing and realistic!
For example, Lionheart being the anti-hero. I have never seen this happen, but everything about him from the ending of Veiled Rose throughout this book left no question to it.
Also, there is Rose Red who is the most sweet and heartbreaking character ever, but nothing ever goes right for her.
I am so tired of every main character I read being breathtakingly beautiful and not knowing it- Rose Red shatters that stereotype with her goblin face and all her veils. All of the anguish she suffered because of her looks was agonizing, but sent such a wonderful message because of her personality. She makes a good contrast to Lionheart.
And then, of course, there is Eanrin. His wit is so alluring. I started reading his banter and immediately was like:
Seriously, Eanrin is amazing. And strangely, he is even more enticing because he is blind.
This book had so many positive messages. The symbolism and tones were all very powerful and intriguingly placed. A well deserved 5 stars!
Anne Elisabeth Stengl is a phenomenal author. Her books have such an extremely intricate plot, and it's amazing how she weaves everything together.
There were so many times that I felt like throwing the book at the wall. This is because of how masterfully imperfect the characters are- seriously they defy all stereotypes. As vexing as it was, all the flaws and mistakes made by the characters are so refreshing and realistic!
For example, Lionheart being the anti-hero. I have never seen this happen, but everything about him from the ending of Veiled Rose throughout this book left no question to it.
Also, there is Rose Red who is the most sweet and heartbreaking character ever, but nothing ever goes right for her.
I am so tired of every main character I read being breathtakingly beautiful and not knowing it- Rose Red shatters that stereotype with her goblin face and all her veils. All of the anguish she suffered because of her looks was agonizing, but sent such a wonderful message because of her personality. She makes a good contrast to Lionheart.
And then, of course, there is Eanrin. His wit is so alluring. I started reading his banter and immediately was like:
Seriously, Eanrin is amazing. And strangely, he is even more enticing because he is blind.
This book had so many positive messages. The symbolism and tones were all very powerful and intriguingly placed. A well deserved 5 stars!
March 26, 2017
Well, that may have been the most painful book I've read in a while.
It took me nearly two weeks--two weeks--to read this book. Normally, I finish a book in about 2 to 4 days soooo...yeah. That says a lot about how interested I was in this. :P
I still can't quite figure out what it is about the series that isn't clicking with me. Because with every successive book in the series, my interest wanes and my desire to read the book diminishes. The writing is gorgeous, the allegory exquisitely done, and the worldbuilding a masterpiece--SO WHY THE HECK DON'T I LIKE IT??
I honestly don't know. I don't have an answer. But for some unbeknownst reason, I dreaded reading this book more than any book I can remember.
Now, I will say there are a few things I loved about Moonblood...
1. Eanrin + Imraldera (The best part of the book, by far)
2. The Tiger scenes (don't ask me why--I guess they just reminded me of the Jungle Book, but they were really cool *nods*)
3. The last 50 pages (they were just gahhhhhh the most beautiful thing ever <3333 I LOVED HOW IT FINISHED)
So all this to say, the fault does not lie with the author. (Because gosh, this author is skilled.) This series just doesn't click with me, and for that, I'm deeply saddened. I had hoped to enjoy it, and so far, that has not been the case. :(
2.5 stars
It took me nearly two weeks--two weeks--to read this book. Normally, I finish a book in about 2 to 4 days soooo...yeah. That says a lot about how interested I was in this. :P
I still can't quite figure out what it is about the series that isn't clicking with me. Because with every successive book in the series, my interest wanes and my desire to read the book diminishes. The writing is gorgeous, the allegory exquisitely done, and the worldbuilding a masterpiece--SO WHY THE HECK DON'T I LIKE IT??
I honestly don't know. I don't have an answer. But for some unbeknownst reason, I dreaded reading this book more than any book I can remember.
Now, I will say there are a few things I loved about Moonblood...
1. Eanrin + Imraldera (The best part of the book, by far)
2. The Tiger scenes (don't ask me why--I guess they just reminded me of the Jungle Book, but they were really cool *nods*)
3. The last 50 pages (they were just gahhhhhh the most beautiful thing ever <3333 I LOVED HOW IT FINISHED)
So all this to say, the fault does not lie with the author. (Because gosh, this author is skilled.) This series just doesn't click with me, and for that, I'm deeply saddened. I had hoped to enjoy it, and so far, that has not been the case. :(
2.5 stars
February 11, 2015
Where Heartless was not exactly my cup-a-tea, and Veiled Rose good but a little confusing, Moonblood was utterly breathtakingly beautiful and heart-wrenching. This book has so much more faith-filled themes and Christian allegories that were just so beautiful and inspiring. Lionheart who grated my nerves to no end in the last book won me over completely. I loved his redemption story! The story of the unicorn was so good too, and there was this theme of 'still in pain, I will bless your name' that brought tears to my eyes. And Rose Red... *sobs* she's my favourite character! Best of all though was Eanrin. HE gets the cake, no doubt about that!
So. . . I loved "Moonblood". I cried hard in the "Night of the Moonblood" song scene. Rose Red and Leo's story continued to enchant and sadden and thrill me. I love those two to bits! Please, can we have more of them in tales to come?
So. . . I loved "Moonblood". I cried hard in the "Night of the Moonblood" song scene. Rose Red and Leo's story continued to enchant and sadden and thrill me. I love those two to bits! Please, can we have more of them in tales to come?
January 5, 2023
Oh. My. Gosh. These books just keep getting better! Dragon’s teeth! That ending was sooo unfair and I LOVE EANRIN. Thank you, Mrs. Stengl for this beautiful masterpiece.
March 22, 2015
When I first heard of "Heartless," I was intrigued by the front cover, and semi-interested by the summary. Eventually, I obtained a copy from a library and read it in one day. I was amazed by the complexity and beauty of the book, which had nearly moved me to tears. I was ecstatic when I discovered that more books were coming out and soon received the next two, "Veiled Rose" and "Moonblood."
"Veiled Rose," though good, did not pull me in as much as the first, but nevertheless I was thrilled to meet the maiden Rose Red, and learn the story of Lionheart, whom I felt sorry for in Heartless.
Then I read "Moonblood," which soon picks up after the end of "Heartless." This story grabbed me like few have.
I'm an avid reader, and I have read MANY books, both well-known and unknown. But after a few days of reflection, I decided that "Tales of Goldstone Wood" was my favorite fantasy series of all time! (Topping even the Lord of the Rings books for enjoyment anyway.) I had to share them, so I read them to my mother. She loved them, though at first concerned that they dwelt on darkness. (It didn't.) She felt a lot of understanding for Una, as she had gone through a nightmare herself as a young woman before being rescued by Jesus Christ.
"Moonblood" is a story of love, grace, forgiveness, and redemption. The main character, Lionheart, wants to be a good guy, but he's a people pleaser, and the people hate his best friend, the mysterious veiled girl, Rose Red, who terrifies the kingdom of Southlands. Afraid of losing his kingdom, Lionheart reluctantly banishes her to the dreaded Wilderlands. Soon afterwards, the rest of Lionheart's life falls to shambles. It is then that the second part of the book returns to a familiar character: Prince Felix, whose condition of dragon poisoning is becoming worse and worse. It his story that leads us to the land of Arpiar, a place of artificial beauty, overseen by the divinely beautiful King Vahe, and guarded by the evil, but haunted, unicorn. It is in Arpiar, the land of the Veiled Folk, that we are reunited with Rose Red, who has hardened her heart against the Prince of Farthestshore and Lionheart. Meanwhile, Lionheart bumbles his way through adventures with an unlikely guide: the cat Monster, otherwise known as Eanrin. (Or "sir," or "Your Grace", or "Your Eminence.") Eanrin likes Lionheart little, and Lionheart hates cats, so the two get on each others nerves in a hilarious way, especially when Lionheart learns Eanrin's secret. In this book we also re-meet, Lady Imraldera, who has a fascinating past strongly intertwined with Eanrin's. And we re-meet Sir Oreic, the ugly but noble knight, with a dark past that traces right back to Arpiar.
The author weaves all of these stories and more into a tapestry of adventure, beauty, and truth. The story draws to a pulse-pounding climax in which Lionheart attempts to earn absolution for his sins. But there is none who can redeem save the Prince of the land called Farthestshore...
I'm dying for the prequel covering Imraldera and Eanrin's past, "Starflower" and the book after that "Dragonwitch."
Please read these books with an ready-to-learn mind, because if you resent Una and Lionheart, you might be more like them then you want to admit.
Congratulations to Anne Elizabeth Stengel! She is an author blessed with the chance to change lives for God's Glory!
"Veiled Rose," though good, did not pull me in as much as the first, but nevertheless I was thrilled to meet the maiden Rose Red, and learn the story of Lionheart, whom I felt sorry for in Heartless.
Then I read "Moonblood," which soon picks up after the end of "Heartless." This story grabbed me like few have.
I'm an avid reader, and I have read MANY books, both well-known and unknown. But after a few days of reflection, I decided that "Tales of Goldstone Wood" was my favorite fantasy series of all time! (Topping even the Lord of the Rings books for enjoyment anyway.) I had to share them, so I read them to my mother. She loved them, though at first concerned that they dwelt on darkness. (It didn't.) She felt a lot of understanding for Una, as she had gone through a nightmare herself as a young woman before being rescued by Jesus Christ.
"Moonblood" is a story of love, grace, forgiveness, and redemption. The main character, Lionheart, wants to be a good guy, but he's a people pleaser, and the people hate his best friend, the mysterious veiled girl, Rose Red, who terrifies the kingdom of Southlands. Afraid of losing his kingdom, Lionheart reluctantly banishes her to the dreaded Wilderlands. Soon afterwards, the rest of Lionheart's life falls to shambles. It is then that the second part of the book returns to a familiar character: Prince Felix, whose condition of dragon poisoning is becoming worse and worse. It his story that leads us to the land of Arpiar, a place of artificial beauty, overseen by the divinely beautiful King Vahe, and guarded by the evil, but haunted, unicorn. It is in Arpiar, the land of the Veiled Folk, that we are reunited with Rose Red, who has hardened her heart against the Prince of Farthestshore and Lionheart. Meanwhile, Lionheart bumbles his way through adventures with an unlikely guide: the cat Monster, otherwise known as Eanrin. (Or "sir," or "Your Grace", or "Your Eminence.") Eanrin likes Lionheart little, and Lionheart hates cats, so the two get on each others nerves in a hilarious way, especially when Lionheart learns Eanrin's secret. In this book we also re-meet, Lady Imraldera, who has a fascinating past strongly intertwined with Eanrin's. And we re-meet Sir Oreic, the ugly but noble knight, with a dark past that traces right back to Arpiar.
The author weaves all of these stories and more into a tapestry of adventure, beauty, and truth. The story draws to a pulse-pounding climax in which Lionheart attempts to earn absolution for his sins. But there is none who can redeem save the Prince of the land called Farthestshore...
I'm dying for the prequel covering Imraldera and Eanrin's past, "Starflower" and the book after that "Dragonwitch."
Please read these books with an ready-to-learn mind, because if you resent Una and Lionheart, you might be more like them then you want to admit.
Congratulations to Anne Elizabeth Stengel! She is an author blessed with the chance to change lives for God's Glory!
May 14, 2012
I loved this book! I enjoyed it so much I made myself savor it and not rush through it in one sitting. It is a wonderful continuation of the adventure of Lionheart and Rose Red and Felix. This is book three in the series and they must be read in order. The first is Heartless and the second is Veiled Rose. If you haven't read Veiled Rose then there are a couple spoilers in this review.
The people and land of Southlands is slowly recovering from the dragon’s prolonged stay. Prince Lionheart was the only one who did not experience those five years in the country and no one quite knows what he did. But they do know that the prince acts strange and they blame it on that mysterious veiled girl who isn’t quite a girl. Rose Red.
When Lionheart reluctantly banishes Rose Red she disappears. Unbeknownst to him he just condemned her to capture by the evil goblin King Vahe who rules the hidden realm of Arpiar and who is also Rose Red’s father. King Vahe has spent centuries waiting, plotting and planning for the Night of Moonblood when he will gain the power to rule the whole world – both the Far and the Near World.
Lionheart is miserable and vows to redeem himself by finding Rose Red. Little does he know what awaits him when he follows Monster (Yes! Felix and Una’s cat returns!) into the mysterious Goldstone Wood. Legends come to life, tigers turn into men, a beautiful but terrifying unicorn searches for him. Can Lionheart renounce his pride and arrogance, can he accept forgiveness, can he face his worst nightmare?
I loved learning more about the history of Goldstone Wood (and surrounding – connected? areas). It still amazes me how Anne Elisabeth has woven such a complex tale. This book really ties the first two books together and shows just how epic of a series The Tales of Goldstone Wood can become.
It was so cool to discover who Monster actually is. After all, a blind cat who talks can't just be a cat; he’s got to be Somebody! And what a history he has! After Aslan, I think Monster is my favorite literary cat…who isn’t just a cat.
Lionheart’s struggle is an all too human struggle. Admitting our mistakes and bowing our knee to God. I absolutely loved the many forgiveness and redemption stories found in this novel.
This definitely gets 5 out of 5 roses. If you enjoy fantasy, adventure, grand tales, or stories about finding oneself then you should definitely read this book.
Review first posted on my blog: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2012...
The people and land of Southlands is slowly recovering from the dragon’s prolonged stay. Prince Lionheart was the only one who did not experience those five years in the country and no one quite knows what he did. But they do know that the prince acts strange and they blame it on that mysterious veiled girl who isn’t quite a girl. Rose Red.
When Lionheart reluctantly banishes Rose Red she disappears. Unbeknownst to him he just condemned her to capture by the evil goblin King Vahe who rules the hidden realm of Arpiar and who is also Rose Red’s father. King Vahe has spent centuries waiting, plotting and planning for the Night of Moonblood when he will gain the power to rule the whole world – both the Far and the Near World.
Lionheart is miserable and vows to redeem himself by finding Rose Red. Little does he know what awaits him when he follows Monster (Yes! Felix and Una’s cat returns!) into the mysterious Goldstone Wood. Legends come to life, tigers turn into men, a beautiful but terrifying unicorn searches for him. Can Lionheart renounce his pride and arrogance, can he accept forgiveness, can he face his worst nightmare?
I loved learning more about the history of Goldstone Wood (and surrounding – connected? areas). It still amazes me how Anne Elisabeth has woven such a complex tale. This book really ties the first two books together and shows just how epic of a series The Tales of Goldstone Wood can become.
It was so cool to discover who Monster actually is. After all, a blind cat who talks can't just be a cat; he’s got to be Somebody! And what a history he has! After Aslan, I think Monster is my favorite literary cat…who isn’t just a cat.
Lionheart’s struggle is an all too human struggle. Admitting our mistakes and bowing our knee to God. I absolutely loved the many forgiveness and redemption stories found in this novel.
This definitely gets 5 out of 5 roses. If you enjoy fantasy, adventure, grand tales, or stories about finding oneself then you should definitely read this book.
Review first posted on my blog: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2012...
December 19, 2024
I really loved the worldbuilding elements in this book! There were so many interesting little things introduced.
The story was interesting, too, although I didn’t get to enjoy the friendship of Rose Red and Lionheart as much as in the previous book. Eanrin was such a fun addition, though! Glad we got to see more of him!
I have to admit, the allegorical aspects of this series don’t always work for me. Or, I should say, Aethelbald in particular doesn’t always work for me. It’s hard to explain exactly why, so I guess I’ll just have to chalk it up to being very picky about allegories. 😅
Without giving spoilers, I’ll say I DID appreciate how the ending resolved in a way that sort of…left you unsatisfied. It was fitting for the situation, and a more perfect ending would have felt cheap.
Looking forward to book four!
The story was interesting, too, although I didn’t get to enjoy the friendship of Rose Red and Lionheart as much as in the previous book. Eanrin was such a fun addition, though! Glad we got to see more of him!
I have to admit, the allegorical aspects of this series don’t always work for me. Or, I should say, Aethelbald in particular doesn’t always work for me. It’s hard to explain exactly why, so I guess I’ll just have to chalk it up to being very picky about allegories. 😅
Without giving spoilers, I’ll say I DID appreciate how the ending resolved in a way that sort of…left you unsatisfied. It was fitting for the situation, and a more perfect ending would have felt cheap.
Looking forward to book four!
March 4, 2017
Wow!!! Wow, wow, wow!!! I can't even began to explain how wonderful this book is. Lionheart is faced with many trials. A visit to Ragnipravas realm, a race through the wood between, and many more dangerous adventures! I don't think there is anything I don't like about this, except I was a little disappointed with the end. I am hoping that Anne Elisabeth will conclude the story of Lionheart. All in all it was amazing and I recommend it to all 11 and up, depending on what they can handle. Write many many more books to this series Anne Elisabeth :) God bless you!!
June 19, 2023
This is a powerful stories that emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, and from my viewpoint, especially from Jesus. Anne Elisabeth Stengl continues to speak to the heart of the reader through all the characters. One of the best follow up books!
July 21, 2023
Beautiful. Just beautiful.
July 3, 2013
Moonblood is the third book in the series "The Tales of Goldstone Wood" by Anne Elisabeth Stengl. It flows directly from the ending of Veiled Rose, so I highly suggest you read that one first. While I enjoyed Veiled Rose, I absolutely adored Moonblood. And here's why:
1.) The characters: Having read Heartless and Veiled Rose, I already had the background knowledge necessary to truly appreciate how Stengl wove the character interaction. Everyone stayed consistent while still growing. Some characters even backpedaled, showing sides to themselves that I wasn't sure existed. And Lionheart, despite his position as main protagonist, does not get any easy breaks, even at the end.
2.) The setting: If there is one fantasy world I will never tire of learning about, it is Stengl's Goldstone Wood. Like Tolkien, she gives just enough information about the world to entice us without revealing all her secrets. Secondary characters become real and vibrant entities, ones that make you wonder about their own histories. I especially loved the Tiger, and would love to see more stories about his exploits one day.
3.) The romance: It is very difficult to find romance that is pure but still has the power to break your heart. Without spoiling the book, I will simply say that sometimes fewer words says it all--and the ending, though happy, is not how bards would tell it.
4.) The writing: Lyrical--breezy at times, sombre at others. The song of Hymlume and the scene interwoven throughout made me cry. The sheer beauty of it--the grief and the longing for times of innocence and true love--I honestly had to blink very rapidly to keep from weeping like a child.
5.) The themes: I've heard it said that love is earned, and I think that's stupid, for reasons I will not get into. In the same way, redemption cannot be earned, because we can never atone for our sins the way we should. This book handles this idea very beautifully. I struggled along with Lionheart to accept this, and watching his struggle endeared me to his character for the first time in this series. I hated him in Heartless, was okay with him in Veiled Rose, and loved him in Moonblood. I hope this isn't the end of his story!
6.) Eanrin and Imraldera: I can't resist. They are two of my favourite fictional characters ever. Their moments in this book are few, but completely stole the show for me. Like I said before, Stengl says a lot in few words, and I was melting like chocolate. Though Eanrin has to stop being such a cat! (And if you don't understand a word of this, it means you have to hurry up and read this series to find out!)
I could go on and on about this book, but I have a midterm to study for and Dragonwitch to start pondering. Do yourself a favour and lose yourself in the series "The Tales of Goldstone Wood"!
Five Stars!
Find reviews and more at my blog: www.thewriterofdreamthings.blogspot.com.
1.) The characters: Having read Heartless and Veiled Rose, I already had the background knowledge necessary to truly appreciate how Stengl wove the character interaction. Everyone stayed consistent while still growing. Some characters even backpedaled, showing sides to themselves that I wasn't sure existed. And Lionheart, despite his position as main protagonist, does not get any easy breaks, even at the end.
2.) The setting: If there is one fantasy world I will never tire of learning about, it is Stengl's Goldstone Wood. Like Tolkien, she gives just enough information about the world to entice us without revealing all her secrets. Secondary characters become real and vibrant entities, ones that make you wonder about their own histories. I especially loved the Tiger, and would love to see more stories about his exploits one day.
3.) The romance: It is very difficult to find romance that is pure but still has the power to break your heart. Without spoiling the book, I will simply say that sometimes fewer words says it all--and the ending, though happy, is not how bards would tell it.
4.) The writing: Lyrical--breezy at times, sombre at others. The song of Hymlume and the scene interwoven throughout made me cry. The sheer beauty of it--the grief and the longing for times of innocence and true love--I honestly had to blink very rapidly to keep from weeping like a child.
5.) The themes: I've heard it said that love is earned, and I think that's stupid, for reasons I will not get into. In the same way, redemption cannot be earned, because we can never atone for our sins the way we should. This book handles this idea very beautifully. I struggled along with Lionheart to accept this, and watching his struggle endeared me to his character for the first time in this series. I hated him in Heartless, was okay with him in Veiled Rose, and loved him in Moonblood. I hope this isn't the end of his story!
6.) Eanrin and Imraldera: I can't resist. They are two of my favourite fictional characters ever. Their moments in this book are few, but completely stole the show for me. Like I said before, Stengl says a lot in few words, and I was melting like chocolate. Though Eanrin has to stop being such a cat! (And if you don't understand a word of this, it means you have to hurry up and read this series to find out!)
I could go on and on about this book, but I have a midterm to study for and Dragonwitch to start pondering. Do yourself a favour and lose yourself in the series "The Tales of Goldstone Wood"!
Five Stars!
Find reviews and more at my blog: www.thewriterofdreamthings.blogspot.com.
July 3, 2017
Okay, I'm totally changing this to a 5 star review. I have read much more carefully this time and the depth is astounding. She draws characters both masculine and feminine with a lot of reflection on how people interact and try to live as Christians. This series in particular gives me great encouragement to run the Christian race despite my failings personally. I can't give a high enough recommendation for Christians who enjoy good fantasy fiction. And despite the slightly chick flick covers on the books, there is plenty of good down-home masculinity in this series.
This particular book does a great job with the inner conflict and struggle that Lionheart goes through when he has to deal with compromises that he has made and loyalties he must be willing to die for.
This is my 3rd book in the series which I have enjoyed immensely. My children have definitely fallen in love with Lionheart: he is an awesome and genuinely brave character.
Also, I'm coming to trust the author. She leads you into deep and dark evil, but her characters maintain their integrity. She wrestles with the themes of inward beauty and outward beauty: the Princess is also a goblin, depending on which world she finds herself in.
Lionheart has betrayed his goblin Princess, sees what an awful thing he has done, and so is willing to sacrifice himself to save her. In the process, he learns about the fairy world firsthand!
This book is deep. Really deep., In fact, it was a little too deep for my younger children when I tried to read it to them except for the parts where Lionheart encounters the Tiger and a few others.
The author's words paint vivid pictures of the fantasy world that she is building. She explores the themes of blood sacrifice and good creatures gone evil. Her descriptions of the underworld can be frightening, and there are many characters to begin to keep track of in this one.
The unicorn was so deep that I still don't quite understand him.
The author is definitely building a fascinating world!
This particular book does a great job with the inner conflict and struggle that Lionheart goes through when he has to deal with compromises that he has made and loyalties he must be willing to die for.
This is my 3rd book in the series which I have enjoyed immensely. My children have definitely fallen in love with Lionheart: he is an awesome and genuinely brave character.
Also, I'm coming to trust the author. She leads you into deep and dark evil, but her characters maintain their integrity. She wrestles with the themes of inward beauty and outward beauty: the Princess is also a goblin, depending on which world she finds herself in.
Lionheart has betrayed his goblin Princess, sees what an awful thing he has done, and so is willing to sacrifice himself to save her. In the process, he learns about the fairy world firsthand!
This book is deep. Really deep., In fact, it was a little too deep for my younger children when I tried to read it to them except for the parts where Lionheart encounters the Tiger and a few others.
The author's words paint vivid pictures of the fantasy world that she is building. She explores the themes of blood sacrifice and good creatures gone evil. Her descriptions of the underworld can be frightening, and there are many characters to begin to keep track of in this one.
The unicorn was so deep that I still don't quite understand him.
The author is definitely building a fascinating world!
January 14, 2024
4 stars! This is where the books definitely stop working as standalones, but also where the Faerie/northernness increases (to my great joy) and we start to see how the stories connect. This one has cameo appearances of characters & scenes from at least three novels that hadn't yet been written (King Shadow Hand was in a tile mural!) as well as tying off storylines left open from the first two books. Also, good redemption arcs with an actual solid explanation of how forgiveness and atonement work, and how all grace is undeserved but free. & the sphere songs are pure joy. I really hope we can hear the heavens singing again someday.
I blessed your name in beauty
In fear I still must sing
I blessed your name in beauty
In fear I still must sing
May 29, 2023
I am happy to repeat for this book the general points I made for Heartless and for Veiled Rose: great writing for a great story. This book successfully resolved the main conflicts of the previous one. I especially appreciated the further development of Lionheart’s character in this book, and I wish I could say more about that, but then there’d be spoilers :)
February 19, 2014
A great story. An intriguing, one-of-a-kind tale. And one I would definitely recommend, especially if you've already read the other two books. This one kind of ties them all together. You learn more of the characters' backgrounds, homes, why this happened and how that came about...
To read the full review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
To read the full review, visit my blog! Sarah, Plain & Average: http://sarah-plainandaverage.blogspot...
February 27, 2013
This book pulls you in. there are so many cliffhangers you don't want to pull it down. The poetry add strength to the story and depth. I wish Miss Stengl would publish a book with all the poetry she has written for these books. One thing that I really like is the slight overlap with Heartless and seeing the story from a different perspective. This book can make you laugh and cry.
January 14, 2020
2nd reading and still a five star book. These books are just so georgeous. The characters relatable. The wonderous grace and mercy through Jesus Christ shines through them, and I see it more now than when I first read them. ❤
November 29, 2020
STRESS. OVERLOAD. HELP.
No, but seriously, that was INTENSE. Possibly the most stressful book I've read so far in this series.
But I loved every minute of it.
Stengl, how can you be this good of a writer?! O_O
Also,
5/5.
No, but seriously, that was INTENSE. Possibly the most stressful book I've read so far in this series.
But I loved every minute of it.
Stengl, how can you be this good of a writer?! O_O
Also,
5/5.
January 19, 2015
This series just keeps getting better and better!
July 15, 2016
Every time I reread this book, I recall how what a fabulous person Eanrin is.
May 11, 2018
The more I read of this series the more I believe it was written for me! I just love the depth of the tales. Some say it is boring but to me, it is a slow blooming rose!!
January 30, 2019
Veiled Rose was such an amazing book—I laughed and cried and cried some more—and I will admit, I wasn't sure if Moonblood could carry on from that. Then I read it. Moonblood is a stunning and vivid sequel that absolutely lives up to every expectation I could've placed upon it.
There is so much raw emotion and deep hurt and guilt in this book. It's beautiful and real and just so raw.
Lionheart's struggles were so relatable. I could feel his deep guilt and shame and it really resonated with me. Rose Red's pain and hurt. Oeric, Beana, Felix, Imraldera, Eanrin. All the characters have such real struggles that I became a part of as I read.
Normally third person doesn't suck me into the story as much as first person. Not so with the Goldstone Wood books. The style of the writing, the deep emotions, and the personality and the core heart behind the story always pulls me in and keeps me turning pages.
I loved every moment of this story. It didn't make me laugh and cry like Veiled Rose did, but somehow it was still stronger.
The finale was so beautiful and so perfect in so many different ways. There was quite a large cast, but Anne handled that expertly and didn't leave anyone out.
This book is a beautiful addition to the Goldstone Wood saga, and one of those books leaving me wishing that it had just kept on going with more and more of this vibrant, beautiful story. (Except if it had, I wouldn't have read it, because long books are scary. 😂)
There is so much raw emotion and deep hurt and guilt in this book. It's beautiful and real and just so raw.
Lionheart's struggles were so relatable. I could feel his deep guilt and shame and it really resonated with me. Rose Red's pain and hurt. Oeric, Beana, Felix, Imraldera, Eanrin. All the characters have such real struggles that I became a part of as I read.
Normally third person doesn't suck me into the story as much as first person. Not so with the Goldstone Wood books. The style of the writing, the deep emotions, and the personality and the core heart behind the story always pulls me in and keeps me turning pages.
I loved every moment of this story. It didn't make me laugh and cry like Veiled Rose did, but somehow it was still stronger.
The finale was so beautiful and so perfect in so many different ways. There was quite a large cast, but Anne handled that expertly and didn't leave anyone out.
This book is a beautiful addition to the Goldstone Wood saga, and one of those books leaving me wishing that it had just kept on going with more and more of this vibrant, beautiful story. (Except if it had, I wouldn't have read it, because long books are scary. 😂)
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