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Kavillian Series #2
A Wolf in Stone
High level politics in the Kavillian empire is a dirty, dangerous game—a game Cassie knows well. As a member of an ambitious imperial family, she has been tutored from birth to play a leading role in the contest for power. Yet even she is caught out when a murderer raises the stakes.
Meanwhile her lover, Arian, has problems of her own. Life in the upper strata of Kavillian society is so very different from the honor-based culture of her homeland. She despises the unending, ruthless cycle of intrigue, blackmail, and deception that Cassie views as normal—regrettable sometimes, but more often a source of entertainment. Nor can she accept Cassie’s willingness to sacrifice everything and everyone to advance her family’s position.
Arian’s determination to stay true to her own moral code will be put to the test if she is to save their relationship, and Cassie’s life.
Meanwhile her lover, Arian, has problems of her own. Life in the upper strata of Kavillian society is so very different from the honor-based culture of her homeland. She despises the unending, ruthless cycle of intrigue, blackmail, and deception that Cassie views as normal—regrettable sometimes, but more often a source of entertainment. Nor can she accept Cassie’s willingness to sacrifice everything and everyone to advance her family’s position.
Arian’s determination to stay true to her own moral code will be put to the test if she is to save their relationship, and Cassie’s life.
- GenresFantasy
304 pages, Paperback
Published July 9, 2024
10 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Jane Fletcher
21 books200 followersJane Fletcher is a GCLS award-winning writer and has also been short-listed for the Gaylactic Spectrum and Lambda Literary awards. She is author of two ongoing sets of fantasy/romance novels: the Celaeno series—The Walls of Westernfort, Rangers at Roadsend, The Temple at Landfall, Dynasty of Rogues, and Shadow of the Knife; and the Lyremouth Chronicles—The Exile and The Sorcerer, The Traitor and The Chalice, The Empress and The Acolyte, and The High Priest and the Idol.
Her love of fantasy began at the age of seven when she encountered Greek Mythology. This was compounded by a childhood spent clambering over every example of ancient masonry she could find (medieval castles, megalithic monuments, Roman villas). Her resolute ambition was to become an archaeologist when she grew up, so it was something of a surprise when she became a software engineer instead.
Born in Greenwich, London, in 1956, she now lives in southwest England where she keeps herself busy writing both computer software and fiction, although generally not at the same time.
Her love of fantasy began at the age of seven when she encountered Greek Mythology. This was compounded by a childhood spent clambering over every example of ancient masonry she could find (medieval castles, megalithic monuments, Roman villas). Her resolute ambition was to become an archaeologist when she grew up, so it was something of a surprise when she became a software engineer instead.
Born in Greenwich, London, in 1956, she now lives in southwest England where she keeps herself busy writing both computer software and fiction, although generally not at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
March 28, 2025
The Wolf in Stone is the second book to A Fox in Shadow by Jane Fletcher that follows Cassie and Arian as they try to navigate high stakes politics in the capital.
I had to follow the story from book one because the intrigue was so good. Because book one set the stage and primed book 2 and basically foreshadowed some of the events, it wasn’t hard to pick up where I left off.
The author’s powers of spinning the whole story filled with deception, cunning and mind games was very impressive. I enjoyed reading the duology and marked Jane Fletcher’s books as TBR.
I had to follow the story from book one because the intrigue was so good. Because book one set the stage and primed book 2 and basically foreshadowed some of the events, it wasn’t hard to pick up where I left off.
The author’s powers of spinning the whole story filled with deception, cunning and mind games was very impressive. I enjoyed reading the duology and marked Jane Fletcher’s books as TBR.
July 9, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Cassie and Arian are both having to make decisions that will test them as Cassie who from birth is task in leading her family who wants to alliance with another family to have more power she gets tangled in a murder. Arian loves Cassie and although she understand how Cassie sees in her world she doesn’t like how Cassie is ok with it while she struggles with her own moral code will they both be able to overcome everything to save each other. I enjoy this read political machinations was on point.
Cassie and Arian are both having to make decisions that will test them as Cassie who from birth is task in leading her family who wants to alliance with another family to have more power she gets tangled in a murder. Arian loves Cassie and although she understand how Cassie sees in her world she doesn’t like how Cassie is ok with it while she struggles with her own moral code will they both be able to overcome everything to save each other. I enjoy this read political machinations was on point.
July 7, 2024
I started this book and thought it was absolutely not what I originally thought it was going to be. If you are someone that struggles with odd names in books or how they relate to one another a notebook is advised. However as I read the book sucked me in. It had intrigue it had high stakes but nothing played out exactly as I thought it might.
Overall I would be interested in reading more from this world and continue the games of wit. It is definitely worth the read even if it lies outside of your standard genres.
Id like to thank Net Galley and Bold Strokes Books for the out read this early.
Overall I would be interested in reading more from this world and continue the games of wit. It is definitely worth the read even if it lies outside of your standard genres.
Id like to thank Net Galley and Bold Strokes Books for the out read this early.
June 29, 2024
Wonderful sequel wrapping up the questions of love vs duty. Murder mystery with well thought out plot. The plot moved quickly with a flow that didn’t waste time or skimp. Cultural examinations as both an outsider and citizen. Both provided explanations, criticisms and significance. Normally I don’t enjoy reading books from a series if I haven’t read the rest but while I would like to enjoy the rest I was able to fill in gaps.
Thank you Bold Strokes Books Inc via NetGalley for the advanced reader copy for a voluntary and honest review
Thank you Bold Strokes Books Inc via NetGalley for the advanced reader copy for a voluntary and honest review
August 23, 2024
This is another book where I accidentally picked up the second one in the series and had to find the first, but it was another enjoyable read. This was better than the first, actually.
I enjoyed the depth of emotion in this and the changing relationships. I also enjoyed seeing the imperial politics at play at home. It's a complicated game that Cassie and her family play, and it was interesting to see Arian getting involved this time around.
A really enjoyable and quick read. I hope that there will be more to come.
I enjoyed the depth of emotion in this and the changing relationships. I also enjoyed seeing the imperial politics at play at home. It's a complicated game that Cassie and her family play, and it was interesting to see Arian getting involved this time around.
A really enjoyable and quick read. I hope that there will be more to come.
July 20, 2024
Entertaining mystery with politics and strong female characters. Enjoyable to,have female gay relationship central to the story. Thank you to # netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
September 20, 2024
"A Wolf in Stone" by Jane Fletcher is a captivating dive into the cutthroat world of the Kavillian Empire, where politics is not just a game, but a dangerous dance of life and death. As a sequel, it continues the story with depth and intensity, yet it stands strong enough that even those with a faint memory of the first book can enjoy it as almost a standalone.
Cassie, a member of an ambitious imperial family, is a character shaped by her environment—calculating, poised, and adept at navigating the treacherous waters of high-level politics. Her journey is one of intrigue, filled with unexpected twists and high stakes that keep the reader engaged throughout. Cassie’s complex relationship with Arian adds an emotional layer to the narrative, making it not just a political thriller but also a profound exploration of love and moral conflict.
Arian, on the other hand, brings a refreshing contrast with her honor-bound nature, highlighting the moral and cultural divides that challenge their relationship. Her struggle to reconcile her values with the ruthless world Cassie inhabits adds depth to the story and makes their relationship all the more compelling. The tension between personal integrity and the demands of loyalty and love is masterfully portrayed, making their dynamic one of the highlights of the book.
What makes "A Wolf in Stone" particularly enjoyable is the way it balances the intricate plot with character development. Fletcher’s writing is immersive, painting a vivid picture of the Kavillian Empire’s opulence and the underlying dangers. The pacing is excellent, with just the right amount of suspense and action to keep you turning the pages.
While the book is part of a series, Fletcher provides enough context and background that it can be enjoyed on its own. However, returning readers will appreciate the continuity and the further exploration of the characters they’ve grown to love.
Overall, "A Wolf in Stone" is a well-crafted, engrossing read that skillfully blends political intrigue with personal drama. It’s a book that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the complexities of power, loyalty, and love. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a smart, engaging novel with strong characters and a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.
ARC received for an honest review
Cassie, a member of an ambitious imperial family, is a character shaped by her environment—calculating, poised, and adept at navigating the treacherous waters of high-level politics. Her journey is one of intrigue, filled with unexpected twists and high stakes that keep the reader engaged throughout. Cassie’s complex relationship with Arian adds an emotional layer to the narrative, making it not just a political thriller but also a profound exploration of love and moral conflict.
Arian, on the other hand, brings a refreshing contrast with her honor-bound nature, highlighting the moral and cultural divides that challenge their relationship. Her struggle to reconcile her values with the ruthless world Cassie inhabits adds depth to the story and makes their relationship all the more compelling. The tension between personal integrity and the demands of loyalty and love is masterfully portrayed, making their dynamic one of the highlights of the book.
What makes "A Wolf in Stone" particularly enjoyable is the way it balances the intricate plot with character development. Fletcher’s writing is immersive, painting a vivid picture of the Kavillian Empire’s opulence and the underlying dangers. The pacing is excellent, with just the right amount of suspense and action to keep you turning the pages.
While the book is part of a series, Fletcher provides enough context and background that it can be enjoyed on its own. However, returning readers will appreciate the continuity and the further exploration of the characters they’ve grown to love.
Overall, "A Wolf in Stone" is a well-crafted, engrossing read that skillfully blends political intrigue with personal drama. It’s a book that not only entertains but also provokes thought about the complexities of power, loyalty, and love. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a smart, engaging novel with strong characters and a plot that keeps you guessing until the end.
ARC received for an honest review
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews