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Sovereign of the Seven Isles #2
Sovereign Stone
After gaining entrance to Blackstone Keep and recovering the legendary Thinblade, Alexander must seek out the Sovereign Stone, and quickly.
Contained within the ancient teardrop ruby is the secret of Wizard's Dust, the source of magic and the one thing that will ultimately decide the final battle of the Reishi War. Prince Phane will stop at nothing to lay claim to the Stone and with it the world.
Sovereign Stone is the story of Alexander's struggle to retrieve the Stone from the aether where it's been lost since the Reishi Empire fell two thousand years ago and prevent Phane from learning the most dangerous secret in the Seven Isles.
Contained within the ancient teardrop ruby is the secret of Wizard's Dust, the source of magic and the one thing that will ultimately decide the final battle of the Reishi War. Prince Phane will stop at nothing to lay claim to the Stone and with it the world.
Sovereign Stone is the story of Alexander's struggle to retrieve the Stone from the aether where it's been lost since the Reishi Empire fell two thousand years ago and prevent Phane from learning the most dangerous secret in the Seven Isles.
506 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2011
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628 people want to read
About the author
David A. Wells
28 books301 followersSince my childhood, I've been passionate about fantasy. After reading many stories of epic struggle set in worlds of magic, I've decided to create a world of my own. The Seven Isles is the result.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
September 27, 2015
2.75 stars. Decent plot, weak writing style. Supposedly a fairly grim fantasy (evil mages, demons, etc.), in many scenes the happy emotions are jarring to me, because the characters are tangling with evil forces from the netherworld and human assassins are very close, as in this example:
"There was a cheer from the Rangers. Lucky smiled with unabashed joy. Anatoly gave Alexander the lopsided grin that meant he was proud of him. Jack smiled with boyish joy even as the lines to a song began forming in his mind."
Book 2 was slightly better than book 1, but mostly because it's shorter. The plot advances — and with some good surprises — and the characters are likable enough — if too flat. This book is bogged down with all the same problems with writing style that bugged me in book 1: Too repetitive, too much inner dialogue, the author states — and then restates — the obvious (example: the gang is drying out their wet backpacks, because they are wet, and things are heavier to carry when wet, and we'll get tired from carrying all that extra weight — from the water you know — so we're drying everything before we start to hike again). And too many lengthy descriptions.
BUT... I'm halfway hooked on the plot now. The last quarter of this book brought about some interesting new developments.
I wasn't crazy about the bazaar "ceremony" with the fairy, and I cringed every time Alexander called her "Little One" (patronizing, when she's 700 years old and very wise). Also, the sledgehammer sermon against government felt too pro-Libertarian. And don't get me started on "his glittering golden eyes" and "the witness" (what's up with that?).
Readers who like romance in their fantasy novels will find it here (but with a thin layer of relationship development). No sex, though (nothing graphic or even overt).
I lliked the scenes at Blackstone Keep (discovering ancient wonders, and the demon on the bridge), and the political maneuvering in Buckwold. Those scenes reminded me of the king of the horsemen in Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers.
Derek Perkins is a superb narrator.
"There was a cheer from the Rangers. Lucky smiled with unabashed joy. Anatoly gave Alexander the lopsided grin that meant he was proud of him. Jack smiled with boyish joy even as the lines to a song began forming in his mind."
Book 2 was slightly better than book 1, but mostly because it's shorter. The plot advances — and with some good surprises — and the characters are likable enough — if too flat. This book is bogged down with all the same problems with writing style that bugged me in book 1: Too repetitive, too much inner dialogue, the author states — and then restates — the obvious (example: the gang is drying out their wet backpacks, because they are wet, and things are heavier to carry when wet, and we'll get tired from carrying all that extra weight — from the water you know — so we're drying everything before we start to hike again). And too many lengthy descriptions.
BUT... I'm halfway hooked on the plot now. The last quarter of this book brought about some interesting new developments.
I wasn't crazy about the bazaar "ceremony" with the fairy, and I cringed every time Alexander called her "Little One" (patronizing, when she's 700 years old and very wise). Also, the sledgehammer sermon against government felt too pro-Libertarian. And don't get me started on "his glittering golden eyes" and "the witness" (what's up with that?).
Readers who like romance in their fantasy novels will find it here (but with a thin layer of relationship development). No sex, though (nothing graphic or even overt).
I lliked the scenes at Blackstone Keep (discovering ancient wonders, and the demon on the bridge), and the political maneuvering in Buckwold. Those scenes reminded me of the king of the horsemen in Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers.
Derek Perkins is a superb narrator.
April 12, 2023
The story itself? Close to five stars for keeping me interested most of the time and making me want to get into the third book to find out what happens. I guess I’m a glutton for punishment.
The overall writing/flow? More like 2 stars. The writing is often repetitive in both style and content. An example: we get it, Alexander feels guilty when people die fighting for him and never wanted this thrust upon him… we don’t need to read it each time someone dies in a book about war covering the entire known world. Lots of people are going to die. Wouldn’t he expect that and eventually realize getting all bent out of shape about it and wishing he didn’t have this thrust upon him will only hurt him in the long run and learn to accept it? Through two books he hasn’t yet. Surprised he doesn’t get murdered by his enemies during his crying and breakdowns about his soldiers or people dying. There’s a way to say he’s experiencing the heart-wrenching guilt of lives lost in service to him without restating the same lines each time it happens.
It also feels as though characters don’t develop, their reactions are often like moody teenagers (even the 100+ year olds), and too often the obvious is told and retold to us by the author. Additionally, the descriptions of rooms, places, and meals contain so much information you begin to lose track of what you’re imagining at times. Two paragraphs to explain breakfast items? Too much.
Is it annoying? Yes.
Is it frustrating that the author repeats the same lines so many times and gives “recaps” on what has happened every 2-4 chapters? Yes.
Is it enough to get me to stop reading to find out what happens next? No.
The overall writing/flow? More like 2 stars. The writing is often repetitive in both style and content. An example: we get it, Alexander feels guilty when people die fighting for him and never wanted this thrust upon him… we don’t need to read it each time someone dies in a book about war covering the entire known world. Lots of people are going to die. Wouldn’t he expect that and eventually realize getting all bent out of shape about it and wishing he didn’t have this thrust upon him will only hurt him in the long run and learn to accept it? Through two books he hasn’t yet. Surprised he doesn’t get murdered by his enemies during his crying and breakdowns about his soldiers or people dying. There’s a way to say he’s experiencing the heart-wrenching guilt of lives lost in service to him without restating the same lines each time it happens.
It also feels as though characters don’t develop, their reactions are often like moody teenagers (even the 100+ year olds), and too often the obvious is told and retold to us by the author. Additionally, the descriptions of rooms, places, and meals contain so much information you begin to lose track of what you’re imagining at times. Two paragraphs to explain breakfast items? Too much.
Is it annoying? Yes.
Is it frustrating that the author repeats the same lines so many times and gives “recaps” on what has happened every 2-4 chapters? Yes.
Is it enough to get me to stop reading to find out what happens next? No.
May 9, 2019
The Sovereign Stone, the second in Wells'Sovereign of the Seven Isles series, now involves Alexander and his group inside the Blackstone Keep after Alexander retrieves the Thinblade at the end of the last book. Alexander is being hunted by Jataan P'Tal, a battle wizard charged to kill him by the evil wizard Phane Reishi.
Alexander and his friends must now find and retrieve the Sovereign Stone, an ancient talisman of power, that Prince Phane is aggressively seeking as well.
I enjoyed this book more than I did the first book. There were fewer mistakes and the writing kept the story going along at a good pace. Wells does a decent job juggling the many characters in the book. Another good read by Mr. Wells. On to the next one.
Alexander and his friends must now find and retrieve the Sovereign Stone, an ancient talisman of power, that Prince Phane is aggressively seeking as well.
I enjoyed this book more than I did the first book. There were fewer mistakes and the writing kept the story going along at a good pace. Wells does a decent job juggling the many characters in the book. Another good read by Mr. Wells. On to the next one.
December 11, 2015
Review to come! :D
January 24, 2014
I was interested in finding more about the character, but got more and more upset by the basic concept in this world that the good guys are all industrious and good (their auras proclaimed their goodness), while the enemies are all craven cowardly selfish evil people. The good guys inherit powers from an ancient good wizard, to fight the very evil ancient bad wizard. (Good guys can't take anything from anybody - I don't know how they will pay for the war). Those good people serving the enemy can be easily persuaded to switch sides.
Since I live in a world where Righteous people on all sides are creating most of the evil that is done, I find this too disturbing to continue.
Since I live in a world where Righteous people on all sides are creating most of the evil that is done, I find this too disturbing to continue.
dnf
October 11, 2014Amount read: 2.5 chapters
No improvement on the first. It's not a good sign if I can pick up book two of an epic fantasy series, not having finished book one and not be the least confused. All the same characters are still alive and in the same condition, except that the hero's attained a million more skills, because everything comes very easily to Alexander. No thank you.
No improvement on the first. It's not a good sign if I can pick up book two of an epic fantasy series, not having finished book one and not be the least confused. All the same characters are still alive and in the same condition, except that the hero's attained a million more skills, because everything comes very easily to Alexander. No thank you.
March 13, 2019
Personal Response
I liked how Sovereign Stone followed many different characters, and I got to view the story from multiple different perspectives. David A. Wells also made all the characters face a lot of hardship throughout Sovereign Stone. I also liked that the fantasy world was so big because it allows two main plot lines to occur without affecting each other.
Plot
Kelvin and his most powerful wizards arrive at Blackstone Keep. Alexander then heads for the Pinnacles, but he discovers treachery at Buckwold. He saves the Governor of Buckwold and they ally with him. They save the priestess of the dragon: Tanis and she guides them to Highlake City. After that, they get High Priestess Clarissa to lead them to the Valley of the Fairy Queen and Alexander gets married to Isabel there. A fairy named Chloe bonds with Alexander, and they manage to get to the Reishi Isle. They manage to retrieve the Sovereign Stone and to their surprise, Alexander bonds with it. Jataan P’tal who has been chasing them this whole time finally catches up and is about to kill Alexander. He ends up stopping because he realizes Alexander is the rightful Sovereign of the Seven Isles.
Characterization
Alexander starts off hating power but then accepts his responsibility. He also learns to love even more because of his bond with Chloe. He also learns to never mess with a battle wizard. Battle wizards possess inhuman speed, strength, and the power to imbue weapons to do more damage.
Jataan P’tal
Jataan starts having doubts because Prince Phane was a necromancer. He also had to make regular sacrifices to cast his spells and this makes Jataan more uneasy. He then betrays Phane when he sees Alexander bonding with the Sovereign Stone.
Setting
This book takes place in a medieval time period when the only weapons they have are bows, handheld weapons, and magic. They head to Buckwold where they have to result to deception to carry the day. They are only there for a few days but manage to uncover an insidious plot by Vasili Nero to hold control of Buckwold. They then head to the Pinnacles. The Pinnacles are filled with many dangerous creatures including: dragons, ganglings, and grimthralls. They stay there for two weeks and they end up in the Valley of the Fairy Queen. It is very hard to gain access to and they are only there for a day.
Recommendation
I would recommend this to middle school boys and any high school kids who can understand it. If they can’t understand it or don’t like very in-depth descriptions of deaths, then I would not recommend this book. I would also not recommend this to elementary school kids and sixth graders because it is too gory for them.
I liked how Sovereign Stone followed many different characters, and I got to view the story from multiple different perspectives. David A. Wells also made all the characters face a lot of hardship throughout Sovereign Stone. I also liked that the fantasy world was so big because it allows two main plot lines to occur without affecting each other.
Plot
Kelvin and his most powerful wizards arrive at Blackstone Keep. Alexander then heads for the Pinnacles, but he discovers treachery at Buckwold. He saves the Governor of Buckwold and they ally with him. They save the priestess of the dragon: Tanis and she guides them to Highlake City. After that, they get High Priestess Clarissa to lead them to the Valley of the Fairy Queen and Alexander gets married to Isabel there. A fairy named Chloe bonds with Alexander, and they manage to get to the Reishi Isle. They manage to retrieve the Sovereign Stone and to their surprise, Alexander bonds with it. Jataan P’tal who has been chasing them this whole time finally catches up and is about to kill Alexander. He ends up stopping because he realizes Alexander is the rightful Sovereign of the Seven Isles.
Characterization
Alexander starts off hating power but then accepts his responsibility. He also learns to love even more because of his bond with Chloe. He also learns to never mess with a battle wizard. Battle wizards possess inhuman speed, strength, and the power to imbue weapons to do more damage.
Jataan P’tal
Jataan starts having doubts because Prince Phane was a necromancer. He also had to make regular sacrifices to cast his spells and this makes Jataan more uneasy. He then betrays Phane when he sees Alexander bonding with the Sovereign Stone.
Setting
This book takes place in a medieval time period when the only weapons they have are bows, handheld weapons, and magic. They head to Buckwold where they have to result to deception to carry the day. They are only there for a few days but manage to uncover an insidious plot by Vasili Nero to hold control of Buckwold. They then head to the Pinnacles. The Pinnacles are filled with many dangerous creatures including: dragons, ganglings, and grimthralls. They stay there for two weeks and they end up in the Valley of the Fairy Queen. It is very hard to gain access to and they are only there for a day.
Recommendation
I would recommend this to middle school boys and any high school kids who can understand it. If they can’t understand it or don’t like very in-depth descriptions of deaths, then I would not recommend this book. I would also not recommend this to elementary school kids and sixth graders because it is too gory for them.
October 27, 2023
Middle-book-itis. Unifying Kingdoms is hard and slow. Find a Macguffin!
Then first volume on the Sovereign of the Seven Isles series, "Thinblade" was a well paced, if very familiar pastiche of "ancient evil" and "chosen one" cliches that never wore out its welcome mostly by having its characters refuse to be stupid or waste much time. The same, unfortunately, can't be said for this second volume, "Sovereign Stone."
Prophesied King Alexander has to unite the isles against the newly awakened evil, but not everybody is on board. So we get way too much courtly politicking before the book decides YOLO, we need to find the magic Sovereign Stone to make all this easier. But to do that, we need to enlist the help of the Fairy Folk. And that help involves one of the fairy folk sacrificing themselves out of "live" for Akexander (to enable some bonding or sonesych, it doesn't matter).
Despite taking a long time, this sacrifice feels rushed and thoroughly unearned for reasons of plot. But in the process, evil spirits are unleashed that aren't formally allied with the big bad guy and we learn that the Stone is rather "loose" with who it decides is the heir to which throne/bloodline.
In addition to the sluggish palace intriguing, there's never a real sense of a real antagonist in this novel. There are obstacles, sure, but the somewhat interesting awakened wizard bad guy from the first novel largely takes a back seat to various henchmen/lieutenants who never really jump off the page. It's not a bad follow-up, but it's definitely a middle book.
Then first volume on the Sovereign of the Seven Isles series, "Thinblade" was a well paced, if very familiar pastiche of "ancient evil" and "chosen one" cliches that never wore out its welcome mostly by having its characters refuse to be stupid or waste much time. The same, unfortunately, can't be said for this second volume, "Sovereign Stone."
Prophesied King Alexander has to unite the isles against the newly awakened evil, but not everybody is on board. So we get way too much courtly politicking before the book decides YOLO, we need to find the magic Sovereign Stone to make all this easier. But to do that, we need to enlist the help of the Fairy Folk. And that help involves one of the fairy folk sacrificing themselves out of "live" for Akexander (to enable some bonding or sonesych, it doesn't matter).
Despite taking a long time, this sacrifice feels rushed and thoroughly unearned for reasons of plot. But in the process, evil spirits are unleashed that aren't formally allied with the big bad guy and we learn that the Stone is rather "loose" with who it decides is the heir to which throne/bloodline.
In addition to the sluggish palace intriguing, there's never a real sense of a real antagonist in this novel. There are obstacles, sure, but the somewhat interesting awakened wizard bad guy from the first novel largely takes a back seat to various henchmen/lieutenants who never really jump off the page. It's not a bad follow-up, but it's definitely a middle book.
Read
January 18, 2025Audio with Michael in car
October 15, 2025
a bit preachy but good
January 29, 2022
Book 2 felt like it was drawn on for far too long. It took me forever to make it through. There was some good action and I liked when Alexander was exploring the keeps. It was cringy when he kept calling Chloe “little one” she is 700 years old dude. I love the band of brothers that Alexander is trying to conquer the world with too, but it doesn’t feel like there is any stakes. Someone gets hurt and they are instantly healed by Lucky’s magic potions.
I like the story line and the characters but it’s lacking something.. maybe to much dialogue? The author repeatedly saying the same things over? Idk I can’t put my finger on it. I’m shelving the rest of the series for awhile. Maybe I’ll be able to come back on a later date and follow Alexander’s travels and the fight against Phane. Or maybe not..
I like the story line and the characters but it’s lacking something.. maybe to much dialogue? The author repeatedly saying the same things over? Idk I can’t put my finger on it. I’m shelving the rest of the series for awhile. Maybe I’ll be able to come back on a later date and follow Alexander’s travels and the fight against Phane. Or maybe not..
August 17, 2021
I read some of the reviews on the first book which kinda/sorta made me feel like I must be out of the loop since it seemed that a lot of people really, really didn’t like it, whereas I did. I do agree that having Jack retell the whole story at one point and the descriptors of the meals eaten (especially the butter/jam and biscuits ad nauseam) was a bit much, but so what? A few extra words to read here and there. People shouldn’t be reading fiction if wasting time is an issue.
So, aside from a bit of discomfort to my psyche at liking this story, I’m really glad I’ve continued with it. My only regret is that some books to other series I read have been released and I’ve decided not to pursue them until I’m through with this one. Oh, the agony of first world problems...
If Nicolai Atherton is able to appear as a ghost to Alexander, wouldn’t the same hold true for Malachi Reishi to appear to Phane?
Alexander and crew persist in their quest to acquire the sovereign stone. Of course they run into more obstacles and new adversaries along the way which they must either overcome or convince to assist them. We finally get to meet a dragon, not to mention wyverns. There seems to be an over abundance of mean spirited, petty characters, even amongst their so-called allies whom I hope will be dealt with at some future point.
Why does it seem that so many think the Rautha line had died out 2,000 years ago? It certainly doesn’t jibe with the assassination of Darius or that the Rangers had been waiting for the heir to appear. SPOILERS BELOW:
SPOILERS:
The Reishi Coven and their Sky Knights have appointed themselves guardians of the sovereign stone. According to the story’s plot, access to the stone could be achieved through using a powersink from a different island, i.e., Tyr. It seems to me that their so-called guardianship could be thwarted without their knowledge. Getting their feathers so ruffled by Alexander’s acquisition of it seems overwrought. Also, I really dislike their withholding of a possible cure to Isabel’s poisoning.
Since Alexander has bonded to the sovereign stone, would it automatically bond to Phane if Alexander is killed?
Alexander not only refers to Chole as “Little One” but also thinks of her as his familiar. I consider this pretty disrespectful when she calls him, “My Love” and is the only entity capable of retrieving the sovereign stone for him. He is aware of her unconditional love and that she will perish when he dies. She deserves more recognition of her sacrifice from him. Additionally, the whole mating between the two of them is way up on my squick meter. (Are their male fairies? How do they normally reproduce?)
So, aside from a bit of discomfort to my psyche at liking this story, I’m really glad I’ve continued with it. My only regret is that some books to other series I read have been released and I’ve decided not to pursue them until I’m through with this one. Oh, the agony of first world problems...
If Nicolai Atherton is able to appear as a ghost to Alexander, wouldn’t the same hold true for Malachi Reishi to appear to Phane?
Alexander and crew persist in their quest to acquire the sovereign stone. Of course they run into more obstacles and new adversaries along the way which they must either overcome or convince to assist them. We finally get to meet a dragon, not to mention wyverns. There seems to be an over abundance of mean spirited, petty characters, even amongst their so-called allies whom I hope will be dealt with at some future point.
Why does it seem that so many think the Rautha line had died out 2,000 years ago? It certainly doesn’t jibe with the assassination of Darius or that the Rangers had been waiting for the heir to appear. SPOILERS BELOW:
SPOILERS:
The Reishi Coven and their Sky Knights have appointed themselves guardians of the sovereign stone. According to the story’s plot, access to the stone could be achieved through using a powersink from a different island, i.e., Tyr. It seems to me that their so-called guardianship could be thwarted without their knowledge. Getting their feathers so ruffled by Alexander’s acquisition of it seems overwrought. Also, I really dislike their withholding of a possible cure to Isabel’s poisoning.
Since Alexander has bonded to the sovereign stone, would it automatically bond to Phane if Alexander is killed?
Alexander not only refers to Chole as “Little One” but also thinks of her as his familiar. I consider this pretty disrespectful when she calls him, “My Love” and is the only entity capable of retrieving the sovereign stone for him. He is aware of her unconditional love and that she will perish when he dies. She deserves more recognition of her sacrifice from him. Additionally, the whole mating between the two of them is way up on my squick meter. (Are their male fairies? How do they normally reproduce?)
December 26, 2017
This one was 3 1/2 stars.
I continue to like the story and the world the author has created (which would fit well into a dungeons and dragons game setting for gamers out there).
The problem he continues to have is his characters. They all remain too black and white (the good are handsome/beautiful, gracious, and perfect without the least flaw; the bad are ugly, fat, greasy-haired scumballs without any redeeming qualities whatsoever). Alex reads the auras of people and knows absolutely everything about them, but he doesn't even need that ability, since all he had to do is see if someone is unattractive to know if they're bad! Few people qualify as paragons of virtue, no matter how they try; characters should be written the same way. Even the most wicked person can have -some- quality that is shared by regular folk.
I continue to like the story and the world the author has created (which would fit well into a dungeons and dragons game setting for gamers out there).
The problem he continues to have is his characters. They all remain too black and white (the good are handsome/beautiful, gracious, and perfect without the least flaw; the bad are ugly, fat, greasy-haired scumballs without any redeeming qualities whatsoever). Alex reads the auras of people and knows absolutely everything about them, but he doesn't even need that ability, since all he had to do is see if someone is unattractive to know if they're bad! Few people qualify as paragons of virtue, no matter how they try; characters should be written the same way. Even the most wicked person can have -some- quality that is shared by regular folk.
May 15, 2017
It was more of the same, there is no middle ground. It is all black and white. The other reason for the 3 star rating was a new character that was introduced, is really annoying. Like every time something happens it like the first time for them and react the same if it is the first time or the 100th time. No depth. The reason I still gave it 3 stars is it had a good twist at the end and you do start to care what happens. Also the foreshadowing at the end was great. I will probably not continue this series but I did give it two books and it does not pull me in that much.
August 21, 2012
I found this second book even better than the first!
Still not quite up to the standard of some similar themed books but a really good read all the same.
There are just a few repetitive words & phrases that niggled me a bit & perhaps the 3" fairy is a little to much.
However I dont meant to be to critical as I really did enjoy the story, it kept me up late for a few nights!!
Already started book 3......
Still not quite up to the standard of some similar themed books but a really good read all the same.
There are just a few repetitive words & phrases that niggled me a bit & perhaps the 3" fairy is a little to much.
However I dont meant to be to critical as I really did enjoy the story, it kept me up late for a few nights!!
Already started book 3......
August 6, 2015
AUGH. The series had promise and I read until the second book, but I really can't pursue this series. The story is marred by bad writing. Too many times the writer states the obvious. The plot is predictable. Too many unnecessary descriptions.
April 16, 2025
My biggest problem with this novel is that the stakes aren't real. I don't ever feel anxious for the characters. For example, there were several examples of foreshadowing prior to the meeting with the fairy queen. "The price will be high." "She's tricky and deals in love. Are you sure you should bring your betrothed with you?" So forth and so on. Then when the troupe gets there, the price is....marriage to the person Alexander was going to marry anyway? And the queen will throw you a party too? Just kidding but that does happen. The price is a life for a life, but instead of an execution or anything that requires a really hard decision, Alexander just needs to get his new wife pregnant while she's on fairy dust. At first I thought that was interesting. Forced pregnancy? That's a bit messed up because Isabelle is paying the price not Alexander. Surely that will create some kind of conflict. Maybe a rift between main characters? Perhaps Isabelle doesn't want to give up her child in nine months. I didn't predict something like that. But no. They wake up the next morning, and there is just a full-grown fairy that looks like Alexander with green eyes ready to fly off like none of that was weird. The story just continues, and no one ever thinks or talks about it again. It's not like it was Alexander's real kid or anything.
Another small thing that bothered me was Alexander and Isabelle waiting for marriage to do the deed because, of all the things included in the world building, religion isn't established. In fact, the old law is the only moral authority ever discussed, and it doesn't include sexuality at all. Yet the reader is just supposed to accept that waiting is right and proper. Why?
Finally, it's a pet peeve of mine when an author overuses a word. I never want to see the word scintillating again.
Another small thing that bothered me was Alexander and Isabelle waiting for marriage to do the deed because, of all the things included in the world building, religion isn't established. In fact, the old law is the only moral authority ever discussed, and it doesn't include sexuality at all. Yet the reader is just supposed to accept that waiting is right and proper. Why?
Finally, it's a pet peeve of mine when an author overuses a word. I never want to see the word scintillating again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2021
Book Two in the Sovereign of the Seven Isles Series in which Alexander and his merry band must retrieve the Sovereign Stone from its hiding place before evil Prince Phane captures it himself and, along with it, gains lordship over all the territories of the Seven Isles. Similar to my experience with Book One, I felt as though I were reading a video game story-guide for virtually any fantasy game that exists or that at least the story was inspired by a video game given the elements of magic, characters who find objects and tools that help them on their journey, the inclusion of mythical creatures, different building levels and landscapes, etc. That aside, the tale of adventure definitely held my interest and I continued to be impressed by some of the more creative aspects of the characters and setting. The writing is simple, but memorable. I did not think I would keep reading the series, but I was left wondering about Alexander and his friends after completing Book One, so picked up this book and am now committed to finishing the series. I guess I’m okay with clichés and somewhat predictable ‘good vs. evil’ stories after all. :)
September 14, 2012
Okay, so a bit of a belated review since I finished the book like a week ago, but I get around to writing it at the time. A little warning: I will refer to things that happened in the first book, including plot points, because if you're wondering if you should read this book you should definately read 'Thinblade' first and not gripe at me about plot points from that. I will hide plot points from this book behind spoiler text though so don't worry.
Okay, so... 'Sovereign Stone' is the second in Wells' Seven Isles series, and follows pretty much immediately on from 'Thinblade' - with Alexander and his group inside the Blackstone Keep after Alexander retrieved the Thinblade from the bloodvault within at the end of the last book, with Jataan P'Tal's forces camped outside in wait. In this book, Alexander and his friends must go to retrieve the Sovereign Stone, an ancient artefact that Prince Phane desperately wants (mild spoiler - kinda).
I must say, I enjoyed this book more than I did the first book. In my review for 'Thinblade', I mentioned that I found the writing to be quite annoying and simple. Halfway through 'Thinblade' though that stopped being so much of an issue, and the same can be said here. I found Wells' writing style to be improved in this book, as he obviously must have hit his stride by this point. One thing I have to say carried on though, to my annoyance a bit, was that Wells would constantly re-use certain descriptions for characters. I can understand reinforcing an idea, but when Anatoly is referred to as the "big man-at-arms" or Lucky as a "rotund alchemist" for example every like 15 pages at least, it does get tedious.
The characters developed somewhat from the previous book, but were still the same, basic and somewhat flat people they were then, although I cannot criticise Wells too much for this as it cannot be easy to hugely change a character to make them less flat without, you know, huge dramatic changes and you can't really do that to all of them.
Plot discussion (total spoilers):
Also what I wanted to talk about was Alexander and his character - I'd mentioned in my review for 'Thinblade' that Alexander wasn't really the typical hero in these types of stories. There never really seems any doubt that he'll succeed in anything he tries, and he seems to be an amazing strategist etc. and he is never corrected or has to be helped or guided in anything. .
Overall, I enjoyed this book more than the first one. I felt the author had hit his stride with his writing style by this point, and the overall storyline is progressing nicely, even if it was a tad boring this time. The story for the next book is set up nicely and looks interesting. Some plot revelations were a bit obvious though and there were some things character and plot wise that just seemed a bit off and flat or strange. Overall though, a good book (and Im sorry that a significant part of my review is hidden by spoilers!)
Okay, so... 'Sovereign Stone' is the second in Wells' Seven Isles series, and follows pretty much immediately on from 'Thinblade' - with Alexander and his group inside the Blackstone Keep after Alexander retrieved the Thinblade from the bloodvault within at the end of the last book, with Jataan P'Tal's forces camped outside in wait. In this book, Alexander and his friends must go to retrieve the Sovereign Stone, an ancient artefact that Prince Phane desperately wants (mild spoiler - kinda).
I must say, I enjoyed this book more than I did the first book. In my review for 'Thinblade', I mentioned that I found the writing to be quite annoying and simple. Halfway through 'Thinblade' though that stopped being so much of an issue, and the same can be said here. I found Wells' writing style to be improved in this book, as he obviously must have hit his stride by this point. One thing I have to say carried on though, to my annoyance a bit, was that Wells would constantly re-use certain descriptions for characters. I can understand reinforcing an idea, but when Anatoly is referred to as the "big man-at-arms" or Lucky as a "rotund alchemist" for example every like 15 pages at least, it does get tedious.
The characters developed somewhat from the previous book, but were still the same, basic and somewhat flat people they were then, although I cannot criticise Wells too much for this as it cannot be easy to hugely change a character to make them less flat without, you know, huge dramatic changes and you can't really do that to all of them.
Plot discussion (total spoilers):
Also what I wanted to talk about was Alexander and his character - I'd mentioned in my review for 'Thinblade' that Alexander wasn't really the typical hero in these types of stories. There never really seems any doubt that he'll succeed in anything he tries, and he seems to be an amazing strategist etc. and he is never corrected or has to be helped or guided in anything. .
Overall, I enjoyed this book more than the first one. I felt the author had hit his stride with his writing style by this point, and the overall storyline is progressing nicely, even if it was a tad boring this time. The story for the next book is set up nicely and looks interesting. Some plot revelations were a bit obvious though and there were some things character and plot wise that just seemed a bit off and flat or strange. Overall though, a good book (and Im sorry that a significant part of my review is hidden by spoilers!)
February 1, 2025
I have pretty much the same complaints with this book as I did the first one, only more so. The black and white morality is getting harder to deal with, and the amateurish writing is grating more and more. On top of that, this book made it even more obvious that the story is a novelization of a d&d campaign.
Aside from all of that, the worst part for me is the complete lack of tension, not because of low stakes, but the opposite. When absolutely every problem has world ending stakes, there's no question about whether or not the heroes will succeed. And, even worse, every new power or ability the main character is given only makes him even more over powered.
There were a few interesting ideas, like the whole concept of opening up a portal to hell inside a character's soul. Unfortunately, that one was resolved far too quickly to actually be explored.
Overall, the story is still holding my attention and I still like the characters, so I will continue the series, but if the next book doesn't improve at least a little bit, I doubt I will be continuing after that.
Aside from all of that, the worst part for me is the complete lack of tension, not because of low stakes, but the opposite. When absolutely every problem has world ending stakes, there's no question about whether or not the heroes will succeed. And, even worse, every new power or ability the main character is given only makes him even more over powered.
There were a few interesting ideas, like the whole concept of opening up a portal to hell inside a character's soul. Unfortunately, that one was resolved far too quickly to actually be explored.
Overall, the story is still holding my attention and I still like the characters, so I will continue the series, but if the next book doesn't improve at least a little bit, I doubt I will be continuing after that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2020
“I used to believe that war was about glory and triumph, but I have since learned that war is about death and pain.”
3.0/5.0 Sovereign Stone follow much the same formula and story telling as its predecessor, with much the same strengths and weaknesses. Character inconsistencies drive away some of the immersion, and on top of that we are still left with characters and story that like to tell and not show. The story’s pace, like the first is still kicking, you will not find a slow moment once throughout the book. That paired with an interesting (if not wholly original) plot line is refreshing in a way, just a shame when paired with the aforementioned character issues.
3.0/5.0 Sovereign Stone follow much the same formula and story telling as its predecessor, with much the same strengths and weaknesses. Character inconsistencies drive away some of the immersion, and on top of that we are still left with characters and story that like to tell and not show. The story’s pace, like the first is still kicking, you will not find a slow moment once throughout the book. That paired with an interesting (if not wholly original) plot line is refreshing in a way, just a shame when paired with the aforementioned character issues.
November 26, 2020
Stunning Revelations!
The story of Alexander and Isabel continues as they cross the Isle of Ruatha trying to stop Phane while fighting men, evil creatures, and powerful magic. In this book, we learn more of the history of the Seven Isles and what happened at the end of the Reishi War two millennia ago. Alexander desperately seeks to prevent Phane from removing the Sovreign Stone from the Arthur on Reishi Isle. If he fails, all is lost. While being chased by all manner of enemies, Alexander and his companions cross vast portions of the island. Things don’t go well and there is great danger and loss of life for those aligned with the King of Ruatha. But oh what twists and turns lead to a stunning revelation at the end of this book.
The story of Alexander and Isabel continues as they cross the Isle of Ruatha trying to stop Phane while fighting men, evil creatures, and powerful magic. In this book, we learn more of the history of the Seven Isles and what happened at the end of the Reishi War two millennia ago. Alexander desperately seeks to prevent Phane from removing the Sovreign Stone from the Arthur on Reishi Isle. If he fails, all is lost. While being chased by all manner of enemies, Alexander and his companions cross vast portions of the island. Things don’t go well and there is great danger and loss of life for those aligned with the King of Ruatha. But oh what twists and turns lead to a stunning revelation at the end of this book.
April 2, 2020
I read these awhile ago and am eager to give them another shot. I remember liking them back in the day and would be curious to see how I like them now after reading a lot of other really great stuff.
I'd say the only huge problem I have with these books (and why they got a 3 star rather than 4) is that they're self published and look horrible. I am the type that loves having a physical book in my hands when I read and we almost didn't buy the series because they looked so bad. Understandable that Kindle is cheaper so why put in the $$ for hard copies, but for a hard copy fan, I was so disappointed.
But otherwise, the series as a whole is captivating and lots of fun!
I'd say the only huge problem I have with these books (and why they got a 3 star rather than 4) is that they're self published and look horrible. I am the type that loves having a physical book in my hands when I read and we almost didn't buy the series because they looked so bad. Understandable that Kindle is cheaper so why put in the $$ for hard copies, but for a hard copy fan, I was so disappointed.
But otherwise, the series as a whole is captivating and lots of fun!
October 6, 2017
The writing is a bit better than the first book, and still moving at a good pace. Clearly, none of these is going to stand alone, so it looks like a big commitment. I just hope it continues apace. Concerned it's overly ambitious and the endless villains to overcome will wear thin.
For now, the twist at the end (I expected it from the first mention last book of wondering if he was serving the right master...) has me ready to leap to the next book. Really, this ends so abruptly that I would've been pissed if I didn't have #3 queued up already.
For now, the twist at the end (I expected it from the first mention last book of wondering if he was serving the right master...) has me ready to leap to the next book. Really, this ends so abruptly that I would've been pissed if I didn't have #3 queued up already.
January 9, 2021
language still a bit too modern with modern lingos and slangs for my taste for this type of book, but the actions are riveting and engaging. a bit more editing will make this book series really amazing set of books.
not sure if i'm just getting used to the story lines and the characters, but the second book seems a bit easier to read with less moments to get "turned off" than the fist book.
still debating whether to continue onto book 3 - which i've downloaded via my kindle unlimited for free just in case
not sure if i'm just getting used to the story lines and the characters, but the second book seems a bit easier to read with less moments to get "turned off" than the fist book.
still debating whether to continue onto book 3 - which i've downloaded via my kindle unlimited for free just in case
August 11, 2021
After reading book 1 (Thinblade), which I enjoyed, I said, ok one more, so I got and read book 2 (Sovereign Stone), which I also enjoyed, especially with the unexpected twist near the end. I didn't speed through the book just sat back and enjoyed the ride. Still I finished in 4 days. Dave's writing style allowed me to stay in the story and not have my mind wander off to other things as the words passed on the page.
So guess what? Yep, Gonna get Book 3 (Mindbender). Onward to more adventures.
So guess what? Yep, Gonna get Book 3 (Mindbender). Onward to more adventures.
May 16, 2018
After finishing book one, I downloaded this book and never looked back. It propels the overarching storyline along without losing momentum. There are surprises that I didn't see coming, some that I did, and a lingering desire to rush into book three, which I've already downloaded from KU.
I found this book on the author's website for free without expectation of review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I found this book on the author's website for free without expectation of review. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 19, 2019
I really enjoyed this second in the series. My favorite passage was this:
“There was terrible suffering in the world and the biggest source of that suffering was government, or more accurately, those who sought power over others. It seemed that petty thugs were the ones who gravitated to the seat of power like flies to dung.
“Those who couldn’t be trusted with anything were the ones who craved power over everything.”
Really good character development and surprising twists.
“There was terrible suffering in the world and the biggest source of that suffering was government, or more accurately, those who sought power over others. It seemed that petty thugs were the ones who gravitated to the seat of power like flies to dung.
“Those who couldn’t be trusted with anything were the ones who craved power over everything.”
Really good character development and surprising twists.
January 29, 2020
The books #1 and #2 made for a nice read for any teen interested in adventure novels. The use of magic, sorcery or what-not was a bit under utilized; the romance aspect was at minimum so it left the reader with many questions about various potential relationships. I ended up wondering whether this book contained enough of either to qualify in any category...sort of all over but not deep enough to fire the imagination. Nice but unsatisfying.
June 29, 2022
I got listened to the audiobook version. I only got halfway through and then was very bored. The story seemed super repetitive: travel to a new town, fight, travel to a new town, fight. All the towns and fights just ran together. However, I'm wondering if this is just one of those books that doesn't translate to audio very well because it gets high ratings and I usually find Goodreads ratings to be pretty correct.
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