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Levanthria #4

A Stone Of Destiny and Despair

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Once a humble priest, now a tormented wanderer. Will Jordell Torvin succumb to his own corruption, or will he wield a divine destiny to save his world from despair?

Once a distinguished priest serving in the grand temple of Askela, Jordell Torvin now walks a very different path. Haunted by a vision of a sword that holds the power to prevent a catastrophic war, he has spent the last three years in pursuit of this elusive artifact, even as his magic use subjects him to a creeping corruption that is slowly eating him alive.

After rescuing a gravely injured Barbaraq, Jordell, alongside his ally Laith, makes his way back to the Forest of Opiya, hoping to reunite with old comrades. But the tranquillity of their former camp is shattered, embroiled in a brewing conflict with the mysterious fae who have emerged from the depths of the forest.

With every use of his magic, the corruption gnawing at Jordell grows stronger. And as the realm of Levanthria teeters on the edge of ruin, Jordell faces an almost insurmountable challenge. He must find the prophesied sword, bring peace to the warring factions, and halt his own decay—all while the fate of Levanthria is in jeopardy.

A Stone Of Destiny And Despair is the heart-pounding fourth book in the Tales of Levanthria fantasy-retelling series. If you delight in immersive world-building, multifaceted characters, and relentless quests, then you’ll be enthralled by A.P Beswick's captivating tale.

268 pages, Paperback

Published June 29, 2023

125 people are currently reading
3262 people want to read

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A.P. Beswick

21 books1,111 followers

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5 stars
371 (40%)
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378 (40%)
3 stars
156 (16%)
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16 (1%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
Profile Image for Esther Jones.
Author 2 books22 followers
August 14, 2024
A strong start, and interesting ending.

Given how much I liked books 2 & 3, I was rather disappointed to find that book 4, "A Stone of Destiny and Despair" was more on par with my experience while reading book 1. The main characters were much more enjoyable, but this novel saw the return of the characters I decidedly did not like from the first novel, and that, alongside the slow pace of this fourth book, gradually made me lose interest in the series.

I struggled to make it to the end, and while the story became interesting again in the last few chapters, it sadly wasn't enough to entice me to continue on with the world of Levanthria.
Profile Image for Sky.
123 reviews2 followers
March 17, 2025
After ACOTAR these don't really have much going for them. The story was ok, lots of reuniting with previous protagonists and the big conflict draws 1 step closer. Its just not grabbing me, and we have all these super dramatic problems that are always rather easily solved at the last second plus these desperate attempts and making me feel for characters that just aren't developed enough for me to give a hoot about. No typos that I noticed in this one though. Its perfectly average.
Profile Image for Brandon Eastman.
9 reviews
April 2, 2024
Seeing old faces and meeting new ones! Good amount of lore and background at the end. Excited for the author to wrap this story up in the next part!
Profile Image for Douglas Chaffee.
47 reviews
May 21, 2024
let's just say that there is a twist near the end and one of my favorite characters makes a great sacrifice.
Profile Image for Kemery Myers.
236 reviews53 followers
November 26, 2025
2.5 Stars★★✯☆☆ - the Levanthria book that merges it all together!

For the full review, check out: https://medium.com/@kemerysjourneythr...

What's the story about: A Stone of Destiny and Despair tells the story of Jordell and Laith (Merlin and Arthur respectively) as they track down a “sword trapped in stone” that is told to be crucial to the upcoming war. This story, like each before it, is a duo of first person perspectives.

A Stone of Destiny and Despair is the book this series has been heading toward. Much of the first and third acts are pleasantly exciting and wonderfully realized in how they tie everything together from the previous installments. Jordell’s perspective is a necessary addition that fortunately furthers the plot in big and little ways as well as adds more layers of fun worldbuilding. Unfortunately, Laith’s journey is one that detracts from the overall enjoyment due to the focus on YA relations. Alongside this detractor is a general lack of enthusiasm in the second half of this one that permeated previous stories. Many of the plot points felt forced and unwarranted. While the ideas implemented are original and worthwhile, the execution is less polished. I’m very eager to see where the next important installment takes the bigger story, but I was less excited in how this one ended up.
6 reviews
January 29, 2024
A series of happy and unhappy accidents sums up this entry. Major events are completely overlooked. "I killed the king!" Okay, that seems like a pretty important story... "Morgana has been named Queen, through brief snippets of journal entries detailing what couldve been an intriguing political thriller. These two events agravate me to know end how they were just glossed over. To quote Star Wars for a moment, "Somehow the Emporor has returned!"

Then the characters of Lek and Gillum. They just seem like completely different characters with only the briefest of explanations why. Gillums death just seemed wasteful, no matter how hard the writer tried to play it up. They are held at swordpoint, waste two pages on a surprise counterattack, onlt to end up in the exact same position, all the while the main character just watches and does nothing to help. The seemingly slow witted Lek is now a sadistic player of cat and mouse with Laith, whom I can't recall ever having offended him. And the lack of any sort of hesitation to kill his sister in arms jut seemed like cartoon villiany.

Other than the above issues, it was a captivating story, even thought the ending was obvious, from the fairy warning and the whispering voice, yeah, he's gonna get possessed.
Profile Image for Jo.
3,912 reviews141 followers
September 7, 2023
This adventure sees some old faces from previous books take centre stage with other repeat appearances in a supporting role. Some good world building as various characters start coming together to defeat the Big Bad.
3 reviews
July 1, 2023
A Stone of Destiny and Despair is an exhilarating addition to the series that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With its easy-to-read prose, fast-paced narrative, engaging action sequences, and tantalizing character development, this fourth installment solidifies its place as a compelling continuation of the series.

The author's writing style effortlessly draws readers into the story, allowing them to immerse themselves in a world brimming with excitement. The prose flows smoothly, making it a breeze to turn the pages and become captivated by the events unfolding before you. Whether you're a newcomer to the series or a dedicated fan, the accessible writing ensures an enjoyable experience throughout.

One of the book's strengths lies in its fast-paced nature. The narrative wastes no time in thrusting readers into a whirlwind of action, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. It's an exhilarating ride that leaves little room for respite, ensuring an adrenaline-fueled reading experience.
Furthermore, the author skillfully weaves in appearances from almost every character in the series without it feeling forced. You can really feel the narrative all coming together, leading on to the next book.

While ASDD delivers a highly enjoyable reading experience, it falls just short of perfection. My only complaint really is that I want to know more about the world and people outwith the core named characters, which probably isn’t much of a complaint really. Id love to see the world fleshed out in depth, but that may well come in the books that follow this one, this minor shortcoming does little to diminish the overall appeal of the book.

All in all, ASDD is a very solid fourth installment in the series. With its easy-to-read prose, fast-paced narrative, engaging action sequences, and tantalizing character development, it leaves readers hungry for more. If you're a fan of gripping adventures that keep you guessing until the very end, this book is a must-read. Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation as the series continues to unfold.
Profile Image for Mason.
37 reviews
March 19, 2025
Not sure why I didn't like this one as much. Books 2 and 3 were getting so much better, and this one... Just fell flat. This book picks up with Jordell and Laith, 3 years I think after the events of the first book. So I don't know if this was written shortly after the first, and books 2 and 3 were written later, or what happened, but the writing seemed to revert a little. A little more of the issues with the first one, with the 1st person "I did this" statements, and some more glaring grammar/spelling issues.

However. I did still enjoy the book as a whole. Better than the first one. The best thing I can say about this book, is how you can really see the entire world, and all the stories that have been told up until now, come together. They end up meeting Zerina and Ulrik. They go back to see Vireo and how they've been doing. Orjan shows up briefly and gives another side to his book. And even pushes the plot along further on what Morgana has been doing for the past few years.

I think one of my biggest issues with the book, is just the main characters. The side characters like Yaelor are cool and interesting. However, I'm not a huge fan of Laith, and even less of a fan of Jordell.... He's just... Boring. Zerina, and even Orjan were incredibly interesting. But Jordell and Laith... Meh.

Overall, a good book that helps start to tie everything together and progress the story. But not my favorite. Hoping they go back to more of what I liked about the 2nd and 3rd in the ones to come!

Side note. I really wish they expanded in one of these books what actually happened to Lek to make him the way he is. Since he's more of a part of this book. I know there was a bonus chapter or something that explained it, but I randomly stumbled upon it completely by accident. But if I hadn't, I would be pretty confused by the drastic change. Without knowing that chapter exists out in the world, it sounds like really poor writing. Like "hey, he's bad now! Why? 🤷🏻‍♂️"
180 reviews
March 15, 2025
Jordell Torvin wanders as a tormented soul, haunted by visions of a sword that could prevent a catastrophic war. He and his ally Laith embark on a perilous quest to find this elusive artifact, all while battling a creeping corruption from his magic use. Their journey leads them back to the Forest of Opiya, where old comrades and new conflicts with mysterious fae await.
This time round we have a dark fantasy retelling focuses on Merlin and is a compelling read that delves deep into themes of destiny, corruption, and redemption. Jordell's internal struggle with his deteriorating condition adds a profound layer to his character, making his journey both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The reintroduction of familiar faces, especially Laith, brings a sense of continuity and depth to the narrative.
The world-building continues to impress, with the Forest of Opiya serving as a rich backdrop that is both enchanting and perilous. The Beswick's ability to intertwine various character arcs from previous books enriches the story, creating a tapestry of interconnected destinies. The pacing is well-executed, with action sequences that are both thrilling and meaningful.
There are a few moments where the plot feels slightly rushed, and certain character developments could have been explored more deeply. Despite this, it is a worthy addition to the series, offering readers a blend of adventure, emotion, and intricate storytelling.
Profile Image for brittanys.booktalk.
326 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2023
Thank you to the author for the ARC!!

Beswick's world of Levanthria just keeps getting bigger and more intricate with each new addition to the series. The cast of characters from the first 3 books are all making appearances, whether in journal entries, discussions, or in actual meetings in this book and it's starting to feel like it's all coming together!

Laith has grown in the last 3 years but he still exhibits the impulse control of being young and inexperienced. He has grown stronger and more capable with his weaponry and combat skills. I love Laith he just feels so adorable.

Jordell is getting more powerful the more he studies his spell book. His age is catching up with him but his wisdom is very much expanding with all the adventuring they have been doing.

*Spoiler*

The only thing I did not enjoy with this book was the unnecessary sex scene. It felt very out of place with the rest of the series. I know what Beswick is getting towards with developing the character(s) to have more adult feelings but it just didn't feel right especially with when it happened.

With all of that said, I'm all in on this series and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series as it releases!

Releasing July 3, 2023!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
31 reviews1 follower
July 7, 2023
Fun, Fast-paced, Fresh take on Fantasy!

This series honestly just keeps getting better and better! This latest and fourth installment of the Lavanthria Series follows Jordell and Laith as they are on the quest to find the legendary sword in the stone. Several years have passed in the story since we last really heard from these characters and I really love the bond that these two have developed. Everything that this series has been building to really is starting to come together with plot and characters and this payoff is so satisfying. The interconnectedness of this world that this author created is truly genius.

A Stone of Destiny and Despair really has it all – masterful world building, multi-dimensional characters, and a fast-paced plot with twists and turns. Personally, I really enjoyed the subtle and larger references alike to other characters and situations in the bigger scope of the world of Levanthria that pops up. Overall, this book and series really just makes reading fantasy fun! I would definitely recommend this book to experienced and beginner fantasy readers alike. I cannot wait to pick up book 5!
Profile Image for Tjalli Óðins.
46 reviews13 followers
July 5, 2024
Finally we're going back to where it started.

Following Laith and Jordell, after being three years on the road, destiny is sending them back to search for the long lost sword that can turn the tides of the great war.

Laith has grown into a fierce warrior while Jordell has grown weary as his body is feeling the magic use.
They stumble on a barbaraq woman whose been left for death, which has ties to an old acquaintance.

I'm not gonna lie when I started reading this book an I came to the part about the barbaraq woman, I had an "eugh" moment, which ties into the too many connection in the last novel.

But I decided to brush past it, and I'm glad that I did because the book took me back to one of my favourite characters. It was a fun, intriguing storyline and enough misery and despair to go around.

The ending was insane, in my opinion, I did not see that coming.
I can't wait to see how the author will spin it over the next two books.
6 reviews
June 3, 2025
This is a great story that is inspired by Merlin and Arthur tales, but feels distinct from them in a great way! The relationship between the older, wiser mentor and the younger, more passionate mentee shines well in this book. The inclusion of a third main character makes for a really interesting dynamics within the main group. At this point in the series, the worldbuilding has been fleshed out to the point where we get to revisit some previous locations/characters while also getting to delve into new areas of the world as well! This is a great addition to the series. I highly recommend it. Lastly, I loved how it ended. I was not expecting that ending, but it was a great one.
Profile Image for Shaughnessy.
54 reviews
February 7, 2024
Ok so this one struck me as a Merlin/Arthur, sword in the stone retelling. It was still a quick read and the cadence of the book was good. I also know it’s pushing the story line along and connecting all the people back together from the previous stories in the series, but there was something about this one that just felt a little underwhelming. It was almost like filler to get from point A to point B. Still an original take on the characters mentioned and still a solid read, but just not a favorite of the series so far.
7 reviews
March 22, 2025
I have made it all the way to the 4th book by my strength alone. I loved the idea of this series, I loved the different heroes, the retelling. However I can't get over the writing itself. Sadly I feel nothing for any of the characters, I don't care who wins or loses. And that's just not a book series I can keep reading.

I did my best, but sadly I can't go any further than this. Do not weep for me as I'm going onto better books than this. For those who have continued where I have failed; I wish you nothing but the ending you are hoping for.
Good bye Levanthria
Profile Image for Albert Hehr.
50 reviews
November 28, 2025
Some of the same notes as previous books. The technical side is my biggest struggle. First person perspective of all characters becomes rapidly confusing, and the book is full of typos and errors.

Overall, the story is entertaining and I do really enjoy characters from previous stories being brought into this book and I am assuming future books.

The ending was a bit rushed and forced. Less natural of a pace than I would like.

Once again, I enjoy the overall story, just not as happy with the technical pieces that pop out to me in each book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
59 reviews
February 21, 2025
I enjoyed this book so very much. I liked how it tied into the other books and characters and it is building up to the epic finale.

The backstory of the sword and the tree was very interesting and it was slightly frustrating when the Fae Queen told that story with clear indications of it and the main character didn’t pick up on it but that is how it goes.
7 reviews
May 8, 2025
Great 4th book to the series. Starting to tie in all the 3 previous books to lead into the final war. Love the far and how they helped Merlin with the after effects of using magic and how they gave him the staff to counter them. Love the twist of Arthur and the sword in stone. Can’t wait for the war!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Benjamin.
15 reviews
September 26, 2025
Compared to book 3, I really like this book.
Laith and Jordell are likeable characters that make intelligent decisions.
I liked seeing all the characters from book 1 and 2 make an appearance.

Not many surprises, not even the ending. But it didn't annoy me.
Having Morgana's sister join the good guys i saw coming with how it ended in the last book.

the writing is getting better and didn't bother me like in the last 3 books. That's why I'm giving it 4 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Cathy.
247 reviews
October 30, 2025
Why is it always Laith? He is my favorite. This was a Merlin Arthur retelling.I live this series, it is so well written. The characters are great well thought out. I hated that someone good has to die. I like that all the characters are back together in this one. I am putting off reading the last two ( not really) I hate to see the series end.
Profile Image for Anirudh Kukreja.
563 reviews6 followers
December 22, 2025
Once again, I'll give a detailed review:

1. The relationship between Laith and Jordell was absolutely amazing and heartwarming.
2. As the book is based on an extremely famous English folk story, the ending was predictable.
3. It perfectly sets up the upcoming 2 books
4. At time the book can be slightly slow and monotonous.
Profile Image for Emma Stallwood.
620 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2023
I do love this series and as an avid reader from the start you can really see things all tying in together now. I love all the characters coming together and the old English plots are really there, yet it still stands out from the norm. Keep up the great work AP!
Profile Image for Sarah Davis.
Author 6 books251 followers
July 2, 2023
Another fantastic tale!

Touted as a Sword in the Stone retelling, ASODAD has that uniqueness of Mr. Beswick's Levanthria world. I love how the stories collide and twist. Each character is so well done. Glad to have started this series and look forward to the next installment!
Profile Image for Cindy Roux.
78 reviews
July 4, 2023
Like adventure? Want a new take on the story of Merlin and Arthur? Want a exciting new world to explore? Then the world of Levanthria is where you want to be. The fourth installment keeps building on a great series and I can't wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Connor Hipwell.
49 reviews
October 18, 2023
I thought the series would be concluded in this one and it isn’t. It’s been disappointing, honestly. The theory behind these books is great, the execution was just not there for me. I would recommend it for people who need short and simple reads.
Profile Image for Amber Gabel.
83 reviews
December 5, 2023
Another great installment! As the series goes on, we are seeing how all characters are tied together and I can't wait to see when everything clashes (I'm assuming in the Great War)! Loved the turn of events and cliffhanger of this book. Can't wait to read the novella A House of Powder & Plot next!
Profile Image for Story Eater.
399 reviews94 followers
December 23, 2023
I have binged the entire Levanthria series (including the short story prequel). I quite enjoyed all of the preceding installments. This one felt like it lost a bit of muchness and seems a bit off kilter compared to the others.
8 reviews
July 11, 2024
A little slower than the first couple books but things are definitely coming together with the story. A couple of major twists have me wondering what is going to happen moving forward. All in all a great addition to the series
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews

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