The Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy

by C.L. Schneider

All he wanted was to end the war. Fate had other plans.

This Box Set doesn’t just contain The Crown of Stones Trilogy. It holds an adventure that transports you to a shattered land in need of rescue, an immersive reading experience that drops you into the mind of exiled soldier Ian a man born with an addiction to magic, living in a world where magic is reviled, and its users are enslaved.

Experience this dark, epic saga come to life as you journey across the war-torn realms of Mirra’kelan and meet its ever-evolving cast of characters all struggling to survive and find their own path to peace. You’ll cross realms devastated and divided by years of conflict, molded by secrets and lies, and governed by prejudice and fear. Learn their tangled history. Unearth the lore. Discover the true origins—and the danger—of the ancient Shinree’s powerful magic.

Travel with Ian as he returns to the past to save the future, crossing time to solve the mystery of The Crown of Stones, his true connection to the artifact, and the role it played in shaping all their lives.

Included in this Box
Magic-Price (Book 1)
Magic-Scars (Book 2)
Magic-Borne (Book 3)
Sneak Peek at The Wandering Isles (Soulbound Journeys Book 1)

2250 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2024

About the author

Born in the Midwest, I live in New York's scenic Hudson Valley Region with my husband and two sons. A huge reader since childhood, I penned my first full-length novel in high school on a typewriter in my parent's living room. That was when my dream of becoming a published author was born. Life happened, and it took a while, but I can honestly say: it's the best job ever.

If you're looking for puppies, rainbows, and sweet romance, you won't find that here. My stories tend to run dark, gritty, and adult, full of action, magic, intrigue, antiheroes, mysteries and monsters.

You can learn more about me and my work at clschneiderauthor.com where you can read reviews, excerpts and sneak peeks, subscribe to my newsletter, and join my Street Team. Connect with me on social media, where I'm often found chatting about the wonderful roller coaster of a writer's life.

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grab this Trilogy today. You won’t be disappointed if you love dark fantasy.
The Crown of Stones #1 Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider is right up my alley and a wonderful start to the series. I enjoyed her other series Nite Fire, I love a good fantasy story (it’s my passion and what got me hooked on reading, but I digress) and CL did a great job of writing this one. It's dark overtones and unique magic just made it more interesting. It is intricately woven and has many layers but the joy in the read was peeling back those layers to reveal the heart of the story and the characters. The story has everything you need to make it great, there is plenty of danger and action, drama and magic, intrigue and suspense, and the usual light vs darkness. I enjoyed the unique twist used in Ian’s magic. CL gives us a world that you can easily imagine due to her writing and world-building.
Ian has been living in fear of his magic and using it for a long, long time. Having to live with the deaths of so many makes his life a living hell. When he stumbles upon a new threat, with its heart purely on destroying everything and anything to get what it wants, Ian is forced back into using the one thing he hates most. Malaq tells his brother King Draken that Ian Troy is dead. His death came about due to the collapse of a mine.


The Crown of Stones #2 Magic-Scars - Ian Troy was captured and kept prisoner by King Draken's demand. Prisoners are kept at Darkhorne prison which is a bleak and horrifying place and kept under control with drugs. Troy has lost his memory as a result of the drugs administered to him while he was in prison. He wakes on a ship and doesn’t remember who he is and what happened to him. Troy tries to recover his memories but gets frustrated with how slowly they are returning. As the memories start to return, he wonders if it was better not knowing. Troy’s magic use and the effects it has on his body and mind leads him to wonder if he will turn out like his father, a Reth. Malaq is building a force of people from across the lands willing to fight for their beliefs. Troy’s relationships are strained, and he struggles to rebuild trust as he blames himself for things that he has done whilst in captivity. He discovers he has many friends, old and new, who are willing to help him as they believe that any hope, they have of freedom lies with him. Troy’s quest is to restore power to the Crown of Stones with the help of others but there are consequences for the magic users when they cast. Troy and his best friend are my favourite characters, but I felt anger and sadness at the things that happen to them. This is a fast-paced story, that is full of drama, action and magic. I am sure you will enjoy this journey into this magical world.

The Crown of Stones #3 Magic-Borne - Ian Troy and his friends are looking for a better way of life, a life free of slavery, tyranny, and dictators, many have magic but with its use comes sickness. Ian is the one who carries the biggest burden, a burden that could set them all free. Ian wants to free his daughter from his father, Jem Reth’s clutches, a father who is evil and wants to enslave magic and its people to his empire. Finally uncovering the truth which has been lost and hidden over the centuries Ian learns what he must do. Ian knows he needs to destroy the Crown of Stones to free the Realm for their chance at freedom. On his path of discovery, Ian learns more about the magic within him and his people and how the Crown of Stones came to be. With this knowledge comes understanding and hope, hope that he can save those that he cares about the most. While all this is going on he looks to the past for help with the future. How much does Ian need to sacrifice and what path has fate set him on? Will he be strong enough and be able to do what it takes to free them all or will his father crush the lands? CL Schneider has written a story of magic, tragedy, and sacrifice. It is also full of love, friendships, and hope. If you are looking for a dark fantasy series that has it all then the Crown of Stones series is for you.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This Box Set doesn’t just contain The Crown of Stones Trilogy. It holds an epic fantasy adventure that transports you to a shattered land in need of rescue, an immersive reading experience that drops you into the mind of exiled soldier Ian Troy: a man born with an addiction to magic, living in a world where magic is reviled, and its users are enslaved. Feel this dark saga come to life as you journey through war-torn Mirra'kelan and meet its ever-evolving cast of characters, all struggling to survive and find their own path to peace. You’ll cross realms divided by years of conflict, molded by secrets and lies, and governed with dark intent. Learn their tangled history. Unearth the lore. Navigate the twists and turns, as friendships are put to the test and love straddles the line of hope and tragedy. Discover the true origins—and the danger—of the ancient Shinree’s powerful magic. Travel with Ian as he returns to the past to save the future, crossing time to solve the mystery of The Crown of Stones, his true connection the artifact, and the role it played in shaping all their lives."
If you like fantasy and all the things that go with it, like witches, kings, and magic, this is the book for you.
Great storyline and great characters in each book. I give each book 4 stars.

[Francis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic-Price
Magic-Price, the first book in The Crown of Stones trilogy, follows the adventures of Ian Troy. Troy is one of the Shinree, which means that he can use magic and, unlike many of his people, his powers are not suppressed by members of other races who enslave the Shinree to benefit from their magic. As the story begins, however, Troy’s powers are being suppressed by another force - fear. Shinree magic draws energy from the lives of surrounding plants, animals and people, which all too often results in death. In Magic-Price, we meet an Ian Troy who has avoided using magic in over a decade following a battle which has left him and all the inhabitants of Mirra’kelan scarred. Unfortunately for Troy, turmoil is again building in the world and his famously destructive powers are desired by many for both defense and attack.
Magic-Price introduces us to a world that has been very well constructed. Throughout the novel, we are given glimpses into the history of various races and characters, and this history clearly shapes the motivations and actions of the characters we encounter. The magic system is explained in great detail as we go along, and allows for different characters to have abilities in different areas, as well as different levels of strength. Troy, and the reader, encounter a variety of characters from different backgrounds who all have different, but for the most part equally believable, motivations. This, along with the scenarios he finds himself in, throw up some very interesting and difficult moral challenges. The nature of Troy’s power alone presents numerous moral challenges as with each spell he casts he, and the reader, must weigh up the benefits of the spell against the price of the lives it will drain.
The story is told through a first person narrative, which allows Troy to fill the reader in on history and culture as well as letting us see his thought process as he considers how to respond to the people and situations he encounters. It also allows us to be tricked alongside him and to share in his confusion on a number of occasions! He’s a classic anti-hero, and the narration style helps us to empathise with his desire to be left out of the drama.
I give it four stars - an enjoyable, thought-provoking read!

Magic-Scars
Magic-Scars is the second book in The Crown of Stones series, and picks up the story about two years after the events of Magic-Price. It opens with the news that Ian Troy, the protagonist, is dead. With over fifty chapters to go, however, the reader is unlikely to be convinced by this. But Troy, whilst alive, has suffered a lot during his imprisonment between the books and has a long way to go before he will be himself again.

At the beginning of Magic-Scars, Troy has lost his memory as a result of his treatment in prison. Schneider uses his amnesia to remind readers of some of the key events of the previous book as Troy remembers things or is told by others. He also remembers and is told some of the terrible things that happened to him in prison. Troy’s relationships are strained, first by his lack of memories of his friends, and then by the things that he remembers, and he struggles to rebuild trust.

Magic-Scars develops Shinree magic even further than the first book, introducing some new magical concepts and delving deeper into those we have already encountered. There is also a fair bit of the history of the Shinree as Troy attempts to understand and control his powers. It really is a well thought-out world that is complex but makes sense when explained.

Many of the characters we encounter in Magic-Price have prominent roles in Magic-Scars as well. Something I particularly enjoyed in Magic-Scars was the extent to which characters have clear and varied motivations and this continues in Magic-Price. The principal characters are from varied backgrounds and each have their own goals and agendas which require them to work with or against different characters. Troy, who seems to have failed to learn his lesson from his many misjudgements in the first book, continues to make assumptions about characters based on their race which, for the most part, are completely wrong. Even the terrifying eldring turn out to be more complex than he believes.

Magic-Scars continues the first person narrative, with a combination of factors making Troy a fairly unreliable narrator. His perspective gives many scenes a feeling of intensity as the reader shares his fears, confusion, helplessness and temptation.

I give this book four out of five stars. It’s dark and graphic so I wouldn’t recommend it to younger or more sensitive readers, but if that isn’t an issue for you it’s a gripping read set in a very well developed fantasy world.

Magic-Borne
Magic-Borne is the third and final book in The Crown of Stones series. It is an epic fantasy series that centres around Ian Troy, a Shinree whose fate is intertwined with that of the magical Crown of Stones.
This series has fantastic world-building. I’d definitely recommend starting at the beginning to get more of the details. There are many different races and species characters with different motivations and alliances. There is a long history that influences current and future events.
One thing that I particularly like about this series is that all magic comes at a cost. Troy, and others, do not use their powers without careful consideration – the benefits are always weighed up with the consequences. This is particularly true for Troy, whose magic usage is gradually turning him into a monster. As someone who regularly finds himself in situations when lives – his or others – are on the line, he often has to make the choice between saving lives or staving off his seemingly inevitable downfall.
I’ve really enjoyed this series. For me, this is a five star book.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic Price.

Ian Troy is a Shinree, a race of magic addicts whom have been taken into slavery, drugged and made to forget their history, identities and their addictions, but Ian was brought up differently, he was brought up to be a soldier for Rella, a kingdom in a perpetual war, but underneath is an innate talent for wielding magic which he wishes he could use more, but the Queen forbids it, until one day, in the midst of the latest battle, there is an earthly upheaval and during the throes of it, Ian starts to feel the vibrations of magic nearby. As he searches for the item, Ian is unaware of the power he is about to unleash, so when he finds the Crown of Stones, all he can feel is the magic within it, the pleasure and the pain combine and block out all sense and all he wants to find is peace, so he casts using the magic he has found, however, it isn’t until afterwards that he realises the price that he has just paid to achieve that wish.

As the years pass, Ian is devoted to another addiction, regret, his regret for what happened and the losses he still feels, so he tries to drown the pain and the need to cast with wine, women and bounty hunting, but as he is chasing his latest target, he is confronted with something entirely different. He has been chasing this particular woman for what seems an age, however, when she finally confronts him, nothing is as it seems and he is thrown back into that seamless addiction he had ten years before, but this time, Ian is not sure that he can control, or curb it again, but that is not the only thing that has him worried, this encounter has made Ian sure that the Crown of Stones is being sought by another.

As he makes his way back across the realms to Rella, he encounters more than he bargains for in both the people and the places he travels through, but deception surrounds him, as does magic and that is the one thing that he does not want. Will Ian be able to get to the Crown of Stones before anyone else has the chance to use it with nefarious intent, or will the danger and his addiction prevail?

Magic Scars.

Ian Troy is back and he is numb, everything has been taken from him, his memories, his magic, his will and his freedom, as well as the freedom of his friends. As everything slowly and painfully returns he is recruited into a desperate rebellion against the High King Draken, a long time enemy of Ian's.

He is tasked with the job of retrieving and repairing the Crown Of Stones, an object he has used in the past which creates the magic scars which cover his body, it is an artefact of his people which is now lost again, but which is needed to overthrow the High King. Ian is reluctant to use it again and put himself in the path of addiction his use of magic causes, but he knows he doesn't really have a choice in the matter if he is to save his scattered friends.

What he cannot understand is why his scars are multiplying even though he is not using his magic, this is where he learns about his ancestry and the secrets which have been buried in the past, but can Ian reconcile the man he was, the man he is now and the man everyone needs his to be?

Magic Borne.

Ian Troy returns and he has more magic scars than ever, but when his spells show him something he was not prepared for, he has to think about his past, present and future and base his decisions on the uncertainty surrounding him. He is still a fugitive, thanks to his past castings, but he is now wanted in multiple lands, as well as by his father, but he still tries to make the world around him a better place, even though as usual, it doesn’t always go to plan for him, or those close to him.

While he is casting spells to find out what his father has planned, he journeys to different times and places, but not all the answers he seeks are available to him and while on one of these journeys, he experiences a bleak future where everything he has worked towards has been thwarted. The resistance he has been routed, the tenuous relationships within it destroyed and nearly everyone he knows is dead and all hope that was there is now gone, so when Ian returns to the present, he is determined to stop this future in its path, so he uses the knowledge he gained while there to do this.

Meanwhile, tensions build between the lands of Mirra'Kelan as peace treaties are stretched to breaking point and political posturing is showing people’s true colours and is leading the armies closer to the return to the brink of war between the lands. Ian is also realising his increasingly apparent transformation his casting is causing, so he tries to stave off from casting in an attempt to buy himself some time, but as he searches the past for a way to defeat his father, bring peace to the lands around him and break the transformation the Crown of Stones is causing, he has to battle his inner demons too.

How far can Ian go before he breaks and how big a sacrifice will he be willing to make in order to reach his goals and will he be able to pay the price demanded?

This series is a race against time in a fantasy land where good versus evil and all the grey areas in between, as a reluctant hero faces the past and future in order to save a world which he struggles to merge with. A world where apartheid rules, magic is both life, death and currency and those who wield it are both saviours and destroyers. An epic aventure where one man has to face his demons head on in order to find the peace he truly desires, is what you will only be able to find by reading this addictive, roller-coaster of emotions until its conclusion.

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an epic series that you won't regret adding to your collection!

Magic-Price:
Ian Troy is a man that was raised to have no conscience and when his magic takes a tragic turn, he suddenly finds one. Unfortunately for him, he spends the next 10 years' time on regret, shame, and suppressing his magic. With a past enemy rising to power seemingly overnight, he struggles with keeping his magic under control while trying to keep Rella, the country he was raised to protect, safe. As he begins the trek to save what he was raised to protect, he finds out that everything is not always as it seems. Much of his past is a lie and secrets are revealed! Will he figure out who he is and what he can do in time to save Rella?

I enjoyed this read. At times, I felt like there was a lot going on. However, I feel like the author did an excellent job in world building and weaving in its backstory throughout the story. I enjoyed how she wove together the relationships between characters. I appreciated how I didn't always see the twists and turns coming, too. This was an excellent beginning to what promises to be an epic trilogy! Looking forward to book 2!

Magic-Scars:
Ian Troy has been captured, tortured, and drugged. The king and his father are at the center of him forgetting who he is and what all he has done. After he's rescued and presumed dead by the latter, he slowly comes back to himself and what he finds isn't to his liking. He has to come to terms with the things that he has done and also what has been done to him in order to find the power within himself to thwart the king and his father's evil plans. Can he find his friends and keep them safe before they can be used against him? Can he find out how to harness the power of the crown of stones before his father?

This is a pretty intense book. Ian does some really awful things. Granted, some of them are not completely his fault, but he still has to pay the price of them. I feel like the author did a good job of walking him through coming to terms with who he is and what he's done. He had to make some hard choices and pay for them. In a world where everyone seems to be out for themselves, Ian Troy seems to always be thinking of others more than himself. Thankfully, he has loyal friends that stick with him through the horror and violence.

Just so other readers know, there are several scenes that are explicit.

Magic-Borne:
Ian Troy has taken the power of the crown into himself to keep his father from using it against the realm. As he continues to figure out the cost of that decision, he is faced with a dire vision of a future he’s not sure he can change. However, to save those he loves, he will do what it takes to see peace. Or will he? Inevitably he and his friends face death and destruction in the final showdown with his father. Will the cost be too great for Ian? Or will peace finally reign?
This was the final book in this series of Ian Troy and The Crown of Stones. It was a good closing to an epic ride, but also left it open for the next series to spin off. Ian’s sacrificial love for those who are part of his inner circle, is that of deep familial love. He drew people from different backgrounds together and built a chosen family that fought and sacrificed for each other. There were times that he was surprised that others would take up for him, even though he would -without question- stand for them. I think a lot of people think the same way. We would sacrifice for the ones we love but are surprised when they choose to do the same for us.
I enjoyed this series. I was a little sad that it was the ending, but then happily surprised to find out that there is a spin off in the works!

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 – 4.5 Stars

The Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L Schneider is a fantastic way to discover this great series and author. The trilogy is beautifully bundled into this handy boxset so you can binge the entire trilogy with no wait between books. #winning #threebooksforthepriceofone
This is an intricately woven, action-packed high fantasy series- with a bit of a swords and sorcery feel, magic, adventure, intensity, drama, originality, brilliant world building, surprising developments, intrigue, suspense, and so much more.
I am a sucker for anything epic fantasy, so it was a no brainer when I discovered this series- grabbing a copy and immediately diving in. The story is darker than I had initially expected, with a raw grittiness that really gave it an extra element of interest. It is also a very imaginative and original take on epic fantasy- especially with the lore of magic being so unique to this series.
Ms. Schneider brilliant world building skills are really highlighted here- as the world is ‘alive’ and entirely realistic and believable- so richly painted with attention to detail to all the different races, histories, and culture/s.

-Magic Price (Book #1)
Ian Troy is a bounty hunter living a life of self-imposed exile. Living with the ghosts of the past which haunt his days and invade his nights. He single-handedly ended a war- but has been paying the price ever since. But when the past returns with a new threat against him, the land, and his people- Ian has no choice but to wield magic again. There is much at stake- but what will the price be this time?

-Magic Scars (Book #2)
The story starts off a couple of years after the events in book one. Ian Troy had been imprisoned, tortured, and drugged to suppress his magic. He is ‘battle-scared’, both physically and mentally. The world he returns to hasn’t fared much better than him- suffering at the hands of the new High King. Ian is the only hope of freeing the people, and so there is much at stake. He carries a heavy burden of responsibility but struggles to piece his life back together again after what happened. What about The Crown of Stones- and what of his connection to it? His addiction to magic is also a problem. So, he starts searching for the answers he needs- delving into the past to find them, where he uncovers ancient secrets that have shocking implications, not just for him, but for his entire race. What price will the magic cost him this time- and will he find the resolutions he is looking for?
Again, this is pretty dark and heavy- and I was left really feeling for Ian and what he had been through, and what was still left for him to endure.

-Magic Borne (Book #3)
This book sees the completion of Ian’s story- and what a journey it has been. Ian Troy had been through so much- and has borne the weight and price of the magic. All the pleasure, as well as the immeasurable guilt that has come with it. Ian wants a life of freedom- from slavery, suffering, and tyrannical rulers. Ian has carried a heavy burden, the hope of his people lies on his shoulders. So much hangs in the balance- and the outcome of his success. Ian has made some discoveries and finally learned what he has to do. He will need to destroy The Crown of Stones in order to free the people in the realm. Sounds pretty simple, right? But is it? And at what cost?

This is a fantastic story/series- really is epic, intriguing, unique and very creative. Ms. Schneider storytelling prowess is showcased beautifully in this series.
I really recommend this series to anyone who loves an epic, action-packed fantasy!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, C.L. Schneider!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones by C.L. Schneider is a Trilogy Box Set and happens to be a complete set of The Crown of Stones Series. In this series, we are introduced to Ian Troy, and he is the main character who is on a mission to try to solve the mystery of The Crown of Stones.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price is the first book in series, and this book gives quite a bit of the back story of Ian Troy and the Shinree people. We quickly learn that the Shinree people are addicted to magic, and because of their addiction, they fall into being used as slaves. Ian unfortunately finds himself in a situation where he must use his magic again which causes him to fall into the trap of being addicted to the magic. Ian struggles as he finds that he has to accept the darkest parts of himself in order to be able to fight back and help his people. To me the world building in this was complex and extremely interesting. I felt that as the story developed there were times it gave me Lord of the Rings vibes. Ian is truly an interesting character, and I was very interested in his internal as well as external struggles that he faced. I truly think that this was a great book to start a series!

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars is the second book of The Crown of Stones series. Ian Troy, our main character is back and quite honestly a lot has already happened to him! Ian is beaten down and has found himself being held prisoner. There is a two-year space from after the end of the first book, to the beginning of this book. Ian is finding himself in a rather rare predicament and now has a lot of people looking to him for leadership. Ian doesn't know how he feels about this position, and he finds that the stakes are higher! I felt that the author kept up with the same complex, in depth and quite honestly well-written characters from the first book! There were times that I felt more emotions while reading this book, especially when I found that Ian was faced with unexpected situations. I think that C.L. brought a great sequel to the first book!

Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne is the third book in The Crown of Stones series, and we find that Ian is full hiding due to quite a bit that has been going on in his life! The resistance has fallen, and Ian is trying to decide what is the best way to save his realm along with his people! Once again, C.L. has written a great sequel to the first and second book of the series, and I honestly was not one bit disappointed! I feel that C.L. kept the same emotional intensity that he did with the previous books. I really think that C.L. ended the series very well and that no important details were left out!

In this series, we are also given an unexpected surprise of a preview of the Soulbound Journey Series. In the first book, The Wandering Isles, we are following Ian and his journey to the Wandering Isles with his friend Jarryd Kane. Prior to arriving to the Isles, Ian and Jarryd believed them to be abandoned, but they quickly realized that this thought is far from the truth! They find out that they aren't the only magical creatures around, and it puts them into a compromising situation! All I can tell you that much like The Crown of Stones series, this is a wonderful read! I don't think you will be disappointed with any of C.L.'s books, this is a great author who puts so much emotion and detail into the stories being told!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This box set includes The Crown of Stones, Magic-Price, The Crown of Stones, Magic- Scars, and The Crown of Stones, Magic- Borne. Each book needs to be read in order. This series is an exciting adventure in a fantasy world.

The Shinree people are living as slaves. Their magic suppressed and their minds being drugged by the Langorians. However, Ian Troy, also a Shinree, is a soldier on the run. After using his magic during a war, and killing everyone, he was exiled from the city of Rella. He is able to suppress his magic because he knows when he releases a spell everyone and everything around him, for miles, is killed.
One day Troy is unable to suppress his magic, almost as if he is being controlled by an outside force. And this begins his adventure to find out just what the heck is going on. Some people try to bring him to their King or Queen, while others just try to kill him.

There are many characters introduced throughout this story. Some are just talked about in the past tense as there are many deaths in this story. Troy, Malaq, Sienn and Draken are just a few who seem to be important to the survival of all humankind.

The second book in this series is The Crown of Stones-Magic Scars. The adventure continues with Ian Troy leading the fight for good. Although, in this book, he doesn’t remember who or what he is. After being in prison for two years and on the drug, Kayn'l, that all Shinree are forced to take, he is still just a shell of a man. Slowly Ian learns of his fate and his purpose: to free his people and help build a new kingdom, where everyone can be free and live in peace. (Sounds like what we need in the real world!) In order to do this, he must remember what happened to the Crown of Stones magic. At the same time, he must prevent the bad guys from figuring it out first.

Magic Borne is the third and final book about Ian Troy and his adventure to save his people from evil leaders and suppressed magic. It seems throughout the three books, when one leader was defeated another, meaner one took over. Unfortunately, the evil leader this time is Troy's own father, Jem Reth. Reth wants to make all people slaves to him. Ian faces many challenges while trying to figure out how to defeat his father. During this story Troy continues to struggle while controlling his magic.

This story includes all the components of a great book. Hot steamy romance, fighting, magic, adventure and great writing! The characters, while in a fantasy world, still had feelings and thoughts, sometimes even deep thoughts. Ian, being the main character, shows the most growth with his life and sacrifices.

“Like my magic and my scars, the past and future are a part of me. I’ll always carry their weight. But I think it’s time I try living in the present for a while.”

This was a great conclusion to this series and even though it’s a long story like the first two, the excitement and adventure makes the pages fly by. I recommend this book, this series and this author, especially to those readers who love fantasy adventures. Schneider has created a world full of control, greed and power-hungry rulers. Even though I don’t usually read fantasy stories, I’m glad I read this one.

[Stephanie Runyon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ian Troy is a Shinree who is capable of using magic through special stones. He was fortunate to not be a slave like the rest of the Shinree. Using Kany’l on all magic casters was the law resulting in Shinree to become complacent slaves, However, Troy was to be a champion for Rella. He was involved in an affair with Queen Aylagar Argana who was set on defeating the Langorians. Despite his insistence to retreat with their remaining soldiers, she refused and rushed into a deadly battle. An earthquake knocks down the forces and creates a chasm where Troy discovers an artifact full of power. He looks towards Queen Aylagar and Troy sees her fall to an enemy sword. Filled with agony and anger, he uses the Crown of Stones to unleash an uncontrollable power over the battlefield.. Everyone died on both sides of the war. Troy curses King Draken of the Langorians with insanity.

Ten years later, Tory has become a bounty hunter. He refuses to use magic since the day he brought the queen back to Kabri. King Reynan gave him an obsidian stone from the crown and told Troy to leave Kabri. The crown was buried with the Queen. Guilt and anger plague every moment of Troy’s life. As he is pursuing Taren, a female assassin, she uses a red ring. A dark male voice overtakes Taren and forces Troy to use his magic. Taren is dead and the surroundings in the swamp are void of all life. However, the possessive voice invades Troy’s mind and his casting ability. Troy realizes the crown may have been removed from the royal tomb.

Troy’s life was thrust into a battle last year. Troy became soul-linked with a talented archer, and befriends the half-brother of the mad king. Troy’s love life becomes twisted with nightmares and revelations. The lives of the people he encounters are dependent upon him fulfilling a prophecy. Would Troy survive the brutality of the war with a target on his back? Will he ever be free of the guilt and hatred that has hardened his heart?

Magic Price, Magic Scars, and Magic Bourne follow Troy’s journey. The vivid writing is full of detail and leaves no stone unturned. Former enemies become powerful allies and family ties are severed and reformed. Love becomes a strong force that can cripple or bloom into something beautiful. Troy must make decisions that sacrifice every belief he stands for.. Every character is easy to envision and the graphic depiction of the war made me tremble with the loss of life. The distinct personalities of every character make them come alive on each page. The unpredictable plot builds in suspense and the conclusion wasn’t anything I would have imagined. The growth of the characters is an emotional story that will evoke feelings of grief, joy, anger, and more as each revelation will captivate the imagination.

This is a series best suited for mature adults. There are explicit scenes, profanity, and graphic violence that could be triggering. The ugly effects of war mixed with magic will transport a reader into Troy’s mental turmoil. Troy must choose between helping a kingdom that held him captive by forcing him into war, or turning his back and seeking vengeance for the Shinree who were forced into slavery. Will he ever be able to make the right decision? Is a right choice even possible?

[Audrie Harrington · Rating 4 out of 5]

This first book in the box set was action packed and felt like so much information, action, and events in one book! Ian troy is the main character and I truly enjoyed getting to know him. He is a Shinree magic user who after finding the crown of stones accidentally killed off two armies. Learning about the use of magic through the stones was very interesting. Ian wakes up to the devastation, hides the crown, and leaves the kingdom. Ian then taught himself how to stop using magic and we find the story comes back 10 years after the battle. There are so many other likable characters like Jarryd and Malaq, his two companions on his way back home to help the Rellan palace and the Queen battle against the Langorians. Sienn and Neela are strong willed women in Ian’s life and keep the story moving. The kingdoms that have been created and described in this book are amazing and sound like ancient times with castles, men on horses, and a lot of sword fighting. Ian finds himself in so many battles and it seems that the fates are against him. I liked it so much I moved onto book 2 immediately!

The world building in the second book was just as good as the first! The places the characters go are so well thought out and described, I feel like I was right there with the characters. The castles, the prison, the ancient cities are all vividly written. I like that this book is told in the first person so you really get to know the main character, Ian Troy, even better in this one. Ian is coming off of the drug used to keep his magic suppressed and is having a lot of flashbacks to his time before being in prison and since then, it fills in holes in the story well. I really liked Captain Krillos in this book and the banter that he has with Ian. There were many of the same characters from the first book with even more added in this one. The story line is soooo good and kept me up late into the night reading so I could see what happened next. There is action, magic, death, romance, and so much more. On to book three immediately!

The third book in the series has so much action and suspense it kept me turning the pages. There is so much history written in such vivid detail that it makes you think it is real and not fantasy. After three books I love the characters, Ian, Jarryd, and Malaq are the main trio and they fight and love and tease each other. Ian has to fight to stop his father, has to fight to figure out the Crown of Stones, has to fight to keep all the people around him safe. He often makes the wrong choice and bad decisions, but he overall wants to do good so you find yourself cheering for him. I love the magic in the series too, using stones to have powers. Ian is an erudite so he can do all, most people only have one magical ability. The description and thought that goes into the magical part of these books are amazing. This book is suspense, danger, steamy romance, and so much more. It was an epic ending to an epic series. As the third and final book in the series, I didn’t want it to end, so I was excited to see there are more books set in the same world!

[Brandy Jo Rymer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic-Price
C. L. Scheider outdid herself in this magical book of perseverance and tough life decisions. It reminds the reader to think before you act. There are consequences to every wish we make in life. I love that this story takes us through Ian Troy's life, showing us where he was before he found the Crown of Stones and how he feels about being a magic user. Then allows us to see the consequences his wish has caused to himself and everyone. Fast forward ten years later, when all Ian wants to do is forget that he's ever been a magic user, causing his mind to remain in a fog with his drinking habits, when everything he had been running from has caught up to him. What will Ian do, will he go back to his old ways and use his magical abilities, or will he remain constantly on the run? Read this first book to find out...I am so excited to start book #2!

Magic-Scars
Ian Troy is back in this second installment of The Crown of Stones series, Magic-Scars. I was so excited to jump right into this book to follow the fate that Ian had befallen after his tragic mistakes had come about from wishing with the Crown of Stones. Now that Ian's finally freed from his captivity, he enters a world full of people being unsettled and fearful for their lives. Ian's old enemy Draken of Langor has taken control of Mirra'kelan and is a terrifying king who rules with an iron fist. Ian finds himself amongst a group of rebels who are seeking a way out of their situation. As Ian tries to find and put back together the Crown of Stones, he is faced with odd marks appearing across his skin, that continue to multiply in number as his search continues. What is the meaning of these magical scars that are appearing, do they have anything to do with the Crown of Stones? Will he be able to help the group of rebels to find their freedom, and regain his use of magic without overloading his addictions? You will not want to set this book down as you follow Ian Troy's latest adventure.

Magic-Borne
In this final tale of The Crown of Stones series, we are excited to find out what the fate of Ian Troy will be. The rebellion has been destroyed, and so many have passed due to the violence. Mirra'kelan is now under new rule with another self-appointed emperor, the people are even more fearful for their lives. Ian Troy will have to come out of hiding to help save his friends and family. Will he be able to continue to utilize his magic and not fully give over to the beast inside of him or will he be able to hold onto his humanity? Will Ian's premonitions come to pass, or will his trip to the ancient past bring about peace and serenity for his people? This book series just continues to grow in suspense and the thrill of watching Ian Troy strive to undo everything he had brought to pass from his first run-in with the Crown of Stones. This book has amazing characters that you will be so in-depth that you may lose yourself in the pages as you ride along this exciting journey of war, love, and the drive to never give up.
@Brandy Rymer
08/2024

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones Trilogy is one of my favorite reads! I can't get enough of Ian Troy since the first book. I highly recommend this epic trilogy.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price
Magic-Price is the first in the trilogy of The Crown of Stones series. This book is a must read, once you get halfway through you will be unable to put it down. It starts out with Ian Troy making a terrible mistake that weighs heavy on his soul. Even though it has been ten years since the tragic event where he took the lives of many. When I first started reading it, I got ‘The Witcher’ vibes due to him having a magic horse, white hair, and set in a similar time period. He is a badass that fights for what he believes is right. After getting further into the story it developed into its own and I was unable to put the book down due to all the revelations. Now to the next book Magic-Scars, as the ending leaves you wanting more.

I highly recommend reading Magic-Price if you love epic high fantasy. Where the main character is not perfect and is trying to atone for his prior sins. There is magic, love, friendship, and forgiveness.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars
Magic-Scars is the second in the trilogy of The Crown of Stones series. Starting two and a half year after Magic-Price ends. Ian Troy gets rescued from his prison, the mines, and has no memory due to the drugs that Draken has been forcing. He has been tortured and forced to do heinous acts for the past two years. As he slowly gets his terrible memories back bit by bit, he must forgive himself again for the death and loss of those around him. He doesn’t know who to trust or how he acted before and is going solely by instinct. Join Ian on his journey to rediscover his past and to right the present.
This book is meant only for adults due to the sex scenes and graphic nature of it, they are done extremely well. I loved this book even more than the first book due to feeling a great connection to Troy from the loss of his memories. He keeps trying to do what he believes is right and protect those around him while trying to break the mold he was shoved in. I was shocked towards the end of the book when I believed all hope was lost, I was crushed and cried only to be saved a little towards the end. Now to the last book in the series Magic-Borne.

The Crown of Stone: Magic-Borne
Magic-Borne is the third and final book in The Crown of Stones trilogy. Ian Troy is fighting to fix the glimpse into the tragic future that he foresaw five years ahead. As events start playing out like he was foretold he doesn’t know if his presence will be enough to change it. Is his future set-in stone? Will he be enough to stop his father and finally destroy the crown of stones?

This book is even darker than the previous two due to the intensity of the story. The twist and turns had me devouring this book. I loved this epic trilogy and highly recommend it.

[Joanne Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

C. L. Schneider’s The Crown of Stones Trilogy is a dark, immersive journey through a war-torn world where magic is both a blessing and a curse. The box set, which includes Magic-Price, Magic-Scars, and Magic-Borne, invites readers into the mind of Ian Troy, a former soldier grappling with an addiction to magic in a world that reviles its users. This trilogy offers not only a deeply personal narrative of one man’s quest for redemption but also an epic tale of a shattered land in desperate need of healing.

At the heart of the series is Ian Troy, a complex protagonist whose personal struggles mirror the chaos of the world around him. Born with the innate ability to harness magic, Ian is cursed with an addiction that is both a source of power and destruction. This internal conflict—magic as both a tool of salvation and damnation—drives much of the tension in the series, giving it a psychological depth that elevates it beyond standard fantasy fare.

One of the most compelling aspects of The Crown of Stones is its rich, layered world-building. The realms of Mirra’kelan are vividly imagined, each corner of the map steeped in history, prejudice, and fear. The various factions, species, and magical hierarchies add texture to the narrative, giving readers a sense of how deeply magic has scarred not just individuals like Ian but the entire world. Schneider’s exploration of the Shinree, an enslaved race of magic users, adds a sharp commentary on the dangers of power and control, while also providing a fascinating mystery surrounding their history and magic’s true nature.

The trilogy’s plot is packed with twists and turns, with secrets and betrayals at every corner. The central mystery of The Crown of Stones—an ancient artifact with a mysterious connection to Ian—ties together the personal and global stakes in a way that feels both intimate and epic. Schneider deftly intertwines action with introspective moments, allowing the reader to not only experience the thrill of battles but also understand the cost of each decision Ian makes.

The series does not shy away from exploring dark themes. Addiction, guilt, betrayal, and the long-lasting scars of war all play a significant role in shaping both the characters and the world. Ian’s internal battle with his own addiction to magic is as gripping as the external conflicts he faces, making him a deeply flawed but sympathetic hero. It is through this personal lens that Schneider invites the reader to explore broader questions about the nature of power, responsibility, and the potential for redemption in a broken world.

While the trilogy is heavy with lore, history, and world-building, it never feels overwhelming. Schneider manages to balance character development and world expansion, allowing readers to slowly uncover the truths of Mirra’kelan alongside Ian. This pacing, combined with the author’s descriptive prose and dynamic action sequences, keeps the narrative engaging throughout the three books.

In conclusion, The Crown of Stones Trilogy offers a rich and immersive reading experience for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy. C. L. Schneider weaves a story that is both epic in scope and deeply personal, where magic is as dangerous as it is alluring, and where one man’s search for peace could change the fate of an entire world. If you’re looking for a fantasy saga with complex characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that keeps you guessing, this trilogy is a must-read.

[Jaimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Trilogy was so good!!! I read through it pretty quickly because I just needed to know what happened! I plan on re-reading them and reviewing each book individually, but for now the review for the whole set! This book will immerse you in this world. It gripped me so tight that I stayed up reading it through a hurricane and finished it not shortly after. Stayed up a few nights in a row to finish this series. You start off with Magic-Price (book 1) and you get to see a the huge downfall of Ian Troy. He's only know slavery and war his whole life. He just wants peace, but using magic is forbidden. Unfortunately he pays a huge price when he finds a crown of stones and he uses it. With one reckless spell he ends the war, but at what price? He goes through a LOT with battles, magic, addiction, wars, and man does he hit hard emotionally too. They strip him of everything he is. By the end of this book you are hooked!! I didn't even wait and jumped right into book two (Magic-Scars). This one was hard. You learn really fast how bad things really got for Troy. He was drugged and made to do some ugly things. None of which he had control over. Trying to piece back his whole life a few memories at a time. Some memories he wishes he didn't get back, but he struggles along. Learning who he was and who he needs to be. While in prison all those he cared for have been suffering as well. Fate hasn't been kind to any of them. Draken has named himself High King and he's dispirit for the knowledge Ian has locked in his mind. The crown of stones is "broken" and he will stop at nothing to get it back. Ian is part of the rebellion now and finding secrets buried for generations has him staring down his magical inheritance. Now book 3 (Magic Borne) is the final book of The Crown of Stones Trilogy, BUT the adventures still continue into the Soulbound Journeys Series. These are set after the trilogy but they are still in the Crown of Stones world. But back to book 3! Epic. Every use of magic brings Ian closer and closer to becoming more beast than man. He's marked by the Crown of Stones and he knows it's just a matter of time before he is gone. The resistance is shattered and hope and peace are so far away. Knowledge of the future his him dispirit to save those he cares for. Reckless and desperate Ian returns to the past, but in seeking for the answers he sets of events he never even thought about. Going places he never thought about. But he's only one man who is cursed with the transformation spell in the Crown. So so good!! You have to read it. I can go on and on about what happens, but I do not want to give much away. Just read the set and then go start The Wandering Isles too!! You won't regret it!!

[La Toya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set is a complete set of The Crown of Stones Series. The series follows Ian Troy as he tries to solve the mystery of The Crown of Stones.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price is the first book in The Crown of Stones book series. This is a fantasy about Ian Troy a Shinree, a race of people inherently addicted to magic. The Shinree people are fallen and used as slaves. Ian finds himself in a situation where he must use his magic again which causes him to become addicted to magic again. Ian finds he has to accept the darkest parts of himself so that he may fight back. The world-building is complex and intriguing. I enjoyed following the character of Ian and his internal and external struggles. This story was a wonderful beginning to this series. The plot is complex and well-written.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars is book 2 of The Crown of Stones series. Ian Troy is back beaten down and held prisoner. It is two years after the end of the first book and Ian has a lot of people looking to him for leadership. The stakes are higher and there is even more action. The same complex well-written characters from the first book are present. This book had an even more emotional impact. Some events occur that are unexpected, that will hit you where it hurts. A delightful sequel.

Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne is the third book in The Crown of Stones series. With the resistance shattered, Ian Troy is in hiding and searching for a way to save the realm and free its people. This book is a highly emotional and well-written ending to the series. Once again the characters are amazingly written and Ian has a potent and incredible transformation as a character. All the action and detail from the first two stories are present. This was an incredible way to end the series.


The Wandering Isles is a novella that is book 1 of the Soulbound Journey series. It takes place after the Crown of Stones series. We are following Ian Troy as he sets sail for the Wandering Isles with his friend Jarryd Kane, believing them to be abandoned. As they get to the isles, they soon realize that there are other magical beings there and find themselves in a very unwanted position. This novella was a wonderful read. Going on more adventures with Ian Troy post-war was an immersive treat. Wonderful world-building, adventures, and character development are par for the course with this author. You feel like you are on this wondrous adventure with Ian and Jarryd. The writing takes you along with all the emotions that the characters experience. A great addition to the Crown of Stones saga.

[Dawn Daughenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars
The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set (The Crown of Stones Series) by C. L. Schneider

The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set . I’ve read these books at different times in 2023 and will now put them together in one review.
5 Star
The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider is a science fiction/ fantasy book that once you start reading you won’t be able to stop until the end. A Shinree is a person who is addicted to magic that is exactly what Ian Troy is. He believes he can make a difference but he was born a slave and his magic is used to serve the purpose of other people. What will happen when he goes against orders? He turns to the Crown of Stones ,but does he know the real purpose At what price will he pay? Find out what happens next in this must read. I can’t recommend this book enough. I looking forward to reading the next Book in this series.
5 Star
The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (Book 2) by C. L. Schneider is a wonderfully written fantasy book. I’ve been patiently waiting for this installment of this Trilogy and to say I wasn’t disappointed is an understatement. I found myself lost in the pages and couldn’t stop reading till the end. I had to know what happens next. This story is the continuation of the first Book. Isn’t wakes up after being in prison for two years and has no clue who he is ,where is or even what is going on. He’s been tortured and drugged to keep his magic suppressed. Ian is really struggling to put his life back together and pick up the pieces ,he’s not the same man he was before. He’s there only hope but he has no memory from amnesia and the Crown is broken. Find out what happens next in this absolute must read. I can’t wait to dive into the next Book in this series. 5 Star
The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne (Book 3) by C. L. Schneider

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Bourne is the third and final book in The Crown of Stones series. I’ve truly enjoyed this entire series and I’m a bit sad it’s finished but I’m definitely going to be reading more from this Author. This is a continuation of Ian's story and is packed with action and danger. Once again I found myself lost in the pages and couldn’t put it down till the end. There’s some twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what happens next . Will Ian have the power and the will to change what needs to be changed ?Can he save them from the self appointed emperor? Find out what happens next in this Epic ending to an amazing trilogy. I can’t recommend this book/series enough you won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to see what this Author has for next. I highly recommend reading this boxset.

[Melissa Saxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Troy a Shinree finds himself one of the only shinree allowed to go to war. He is still a slave to the king but not forced on magic blockers. He finds himself assigned to the kings wife Aylagar and assigned to her regiment. He must fo what he's told and his master is no fan of magic.
Finally Troy and 4 others are called up for a special mission into the heart of battle they go with Troy on a special mission only he can be aware of, but their mission goes awry
..can he hang on?

Ian Troy a magic weilder who has freedom in a world where anyone who weilds magic is drugged and enslaved due to the destruction they can cause. the magic cost in this particular story is death of anything with life near the spell casted. People... trees... grass... everything and Ian learns this devastating fact on a major scale when he discovers the crown of stones.

However there is so much more to Ian's Story as you meet the characters surrounding him and journey into a deep dark tunnel of secrets of his birth, his heritage and all the lies and manipulation that have plagued his entire existence.

This is the first book of a series exploring multiple races at war with one another for the same reason... its all about control. it begs the question can the races find a way to get along

In the final installment of this breathtaking series Ian Troy is all that's left to save his realm and his people from his sadistic father who's made himself the self appointed emperor....the resistance is shattered, the crown of stones is lost,the people have no hope and Ian Troy is in hiding marked by the crown for destruction. He's had a vision of a tragic desolate future but can he bring the change that's needed to thwart his vision?

This final book unveils all the secrets of the Shinree that have been lost to endless slavery and the secrets of their magic and the start of their Slavery.
Ian Troy still bears the marks of his use of magic, and gathers more marka with every use changing him a little more. What is one man willing to carry, or give up in the name of peace? Can he defeat his father once and for all or is the entire race doomed?

This was a thrilling conclusion with a bittersweet but very circular and appropriate ending that left me sad this series was over as i became attarched to the characters. A fantastic read with Brilliantly done characters, twisting and turning plot with vivid imagination and descriptions. So well done.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones
By: C.L. Schneider

There are three books to read in this series. The characters were developed quite well and each I thought were as strong as each other, but that is my opinion. If you like reading dark stories, then you need to grab this collection. I thought the author has a great knack of story building which made the books quite enjoyable to read. You need to read this series in order to get the background information.

Magic Price Book 1
I found this book to be long read but well worth it, this story has twist and turns that enhance the book. We meet Ian Troy who is a bounty hunter, who has decided to have himself living in self exile. He is living a life that is filled with ghosts from his past, while in his self-imposed exile he is also trying to forget his mistakes. However, his old enemies will not forget, nor will they let him forget. What Ian Troy needs to do is find new alliances, as his past returns to him and returning also brings new threats to him.

Magic Scars Book 2
The second book in this series I found was a little darker than book one but still an enjoyable read and I am sure you will enjoy the journey through this series. Ok where to start with this one. So, we are now two years after then end of book one we find Ian Troy has been imprisoned by King Draken and found himself to have been drugged in order to supress his magic. Ian Troy discovers the world he is returning to is just as bad off as he is. He also has an addiction to magic which he knows is a problem. He feels the responsibility he is carrying is a burden especially since he struggles to get his own life back together.

Magic Borne Book 3
As with books one and two this is another long read but is well worth the effort to end this series. This book has also been written well which makes it another enjoyable read. This book is not different to the other two you will find some action and suspense. Anyway, here we are at the end of Ian Troys journey and what a journey it has been. Along his way Ian Troy made a couple of discoveries which has now opened his way of thinking what he needs to be doing to free the people that are in the realm. So here he is fighting again with others helping him. He knows in order to free the people he must destroy the Crown of Stones. The question is will he and the people who are helping him fight be able to achieve this?

[Jennifer Reimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved each one of these books in this series, I read them over the last few years, and they are still a favorite that I really enjoy. Below are each of my reviews on each incredible book below. Also, you should read them in order because there is a lot in the book on why and how the world became the way it is and if you don’t read them in order, you will get lost.

Magic-Price: Reviewed on November 28, 2021
OMG were to start with this book. This book literally had everything, from magic, betrayal, loyalty, love, guilty, it had all the feelings in this book. Ian is an amazing character that it was hard for me not to root for him. it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through that I couldn’t put it down. The situations that happen you really have to wonder if they would be able to get out of it. How it seems like everyone in the world hates him, but he still does the best that he thinks he can. I really enjoyed this book, it was very well written, and I can’t wait to read more from this. I might even read this one again.
Magic-Scars: Reviewed on August 23, 2022
This is book two and honestly, I couldn’t have enjoyed it anymore then the first one. It starts off right away with not even remembering what was going on. And when troy finally starts to remember, he try’s very hard to put it all together. The author wrote this incredible book of kings, fighters, magic, betrayal, war, evil, and so much more that I could not put it down and just had to read to know what was going to happen to our wonderful characters. Magic users in this book use to be the ones that ruled, but people got scared and so they feared the Shinree and tried to do anything to control them, including drugging them. This book kept me reading and, on my seat, the whole time. But so did the first book in this amazing trilogy. Can’t wait to read book three to know what will happen. Great book, recommend.

Magic-Borne: Reviewed on April 17, 2023
I have read all the books to this series and not one has disappointed me yet. It is a little heart wrenching that this will be the last book of the trilogy but I’m so glad that I read them. this book was very well written that once again I felt like I was right there in the story, from loving the characters to hating them all in one. This book was filled with magic and fantasy, lots of action. This book like the

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magic Price:
The first of a trilogy, I was hooked from about 10 pages in. I normally don't read fantasy, but quickly got drawn into Ian Troy and the pain, suffering, and perseverance he endures. The writing is stellar at feeling his intense emotions as he battles others as well as himself.

I appreciated the book had an ending, because so many trilogies I have read previously do not have each book have a proper ending (just setting up the next book), but this is not the case here.

One thing I didn't like (again, I don't read a lot of fantasy) was the amount of dead bodies/gore involved in the book. I did like the plot, and how the author clearly thought out how the characters interact with each other, and no obvious plot flaws or goofs.

Magic Scars:
Magic Scars continues where the first book of the trilogy leaves off. The reader discovers more of the history of the crown of stones, and Ian (and his family's) part in it. Along the way, Ian continues with his struggle of controlling the uncontrollable magic running through is Erudite veins.

Throughout the book, the author continues with the fantastic descriptions of the various settings as the first book, especially of the Langorian prison and refugee camp. The blood, sex and gore, which I didn't care for in the first book, also continues. However, I am drawn in and interested in what happens to Ian and his colleagues to continue reading the series.

Magic Borne:
The last of a trilogy, I was continually intrigued to find out what happens to Ian- does he save the realm or does the universe have something else in store for him? No spoilers here, I strongly suggest you read this installment (Magic-Borne) to discover the finale for yourself.

Akin to the other two books in the series, I liked how the author used italicized writing to emphasize the connection or time jump- helped myself as a reader clue in something was different. I also appreciated how the loose ends of each sub plot, some resulting from way back in book 1, were tied up succinctly is this las volume. As I stated in my reviews of the other two books, too much gore/blood/bodies for my personal opinion, but being dark fantasy genre, I understand it sometimes comes with the territory. Overall, I would highly recommend reading the entire trilogy, the middle book drags a bit, but the overarching story is first class.

[Jules Herbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is a little review of each amazing book of this trilogy.

This is the first book in this series by this truly talented author and I am telling you now I can't wait for more. I was completely hooked from start to finish! I don't want to go into too much detail about storyline as I don't want to give too much away so I will just say that it is such an intricately woven and creative storyline, so packed full of action that you will not be able to resist turning page after page! I felt so fully immersed in this world. I truly could imagine everything that was happening and envision it so clearly thanks to the fantastic writing of this author. I can't explain how or why it happened so quickly but Ian weaved his way into my heart right from the start and I know he will stay there for a very long time which is definitely not something I expected when starting a Fantasy series! If magic, adventure, intense drama and suspense are your thing then this series is for you!

I said it with the first Book and I will say it again I was completely hooked from start to finish! In fact I think this book had me even more hooked because i literally could not put it down. Again I don't want to go into too much detail about storyline as I don't want to give too much away but I will say we see Ian again after 2 years of being drugged, tortured and imprisoned. How quickly and completely this author gets me so fully immersed in this world is truly amazing. I could so easily imagine everything that was happening and envision it so clearly thanks to the fantastic writing of this author. I am not wasting a single minute before moving on to book 3.

OMG!! I thought the first two books had me hooked but damn this one REALLY kept me turning page after page and ignoring everything else around me! Sorry family LOL. I had to see how it would all turn out. I really went on a far more emotional rollercoaster then I would have initially expected from a Fantasy series. This author truly is AMAZING, creating characters, storylines and worlds that weave into your heart in totally unexpected ways. This should not be read as a standalone. You MUST start from the beginning of the series to fully enjoy this captivating, action packed world. You wont be disappointed in any way! Ian you will always hold a small piece of my heart.

[Sue]

The Crown of Stones
By: C.L. Schneider

There are three books to read in this series. The characters were developed quite well and each I thought were as strong as each other, but that is my opinion. If you like reading dark stories, then you need to grab this collection. I thought the author has a great knack of story building which made the books quite enjoyable to read. You need to read this series in order to get the background information.

Magic Price Book 1
I found this book to be long read but well worth it, this story has twist and turns that enhance the book. We meet Ian Troy who is a bounty hunter, who has decided to have himself living in self exile. He is living a life that is filled with ghosts from his past, while in his self-imposed exile he is also trying to forget his mistakes. However, his old enemies will not forget, nor will they let him forget. What Ian Troy needs to do is find new alliances, as his past returns to him and returning also brings new threats to him.

Magic Scars Book 2
The second book in this series I found was a little darker than book one but still an enjoyable read and I am sure you will enjoy the journey through this series. Ok where to start with this one. So, we are now two years after then end of book one we find Ian Troy has been imprisoned by King Draken and found himself to have been drugged in order to supress his magic. Ian Troy discovers the world he is returning to is just as bad off as he is. He also has an addiction to magic which he knows is a problem. He feels the responsibility he is carrying is a burden especially since he struggles to get his own life back together.

Magic Borne Book 3
As with books one and two this is another long read but is well worth the effort to end this series. This book has also been written well which makes it another enjoyable read. This book is not different to the other two you will find some action and suspense. Anyway, here we are at the end of Ian Troys journey and what a journey it has been. Along his way Ian Troy made a couple of discoveries which has now opened his way of thinking what he needs to be doing to free the people that are in the realm. So here he is fighting again with others helping him. He knows in order to free the people he must destroy the Crown of Stones. The question is will he and the people who are helping him fight be able to achieve this?

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read this set of books at different times in 2023. It's now out as a trilogy set and I want to make sure you don't miss this series! I'll post my reviews here of each book in the trilogy. This series is worth the time to read!

Magic-Price 4 stars Read in 2023
In book 1 of this series, the reader is introduced to Ian Troy, a self-imposed exile. He's a Shinree and those of his kind are drawn to magic. They become addicted to the use of magic. Ian is different though, after a tragic event changes the course of his life forever.

This book is full of adventure, mystery, magic, and so much more. I loved the character Malaq as he brought some levity to the story.

Magic-Scars 4 stars Read in 2023
It's two years later and Ian Troy wakes up in a prison cell. He's been tortured and drugged, all to keep him from using his magic. Little did he know the price he'd have to pay for all this magic!! There are a lot of people wanting or needing him to be free so he's not without some help.

I struggle to write reviews on epic books because I never want to give anything away. Just know that you should read this but be prepared for the journey ahead!

Magic-Borne 4 stars Read in 2023
Ian Troy is at his lowest low. The entire realm is falling apart and he's the only one who can do anything about it. Or can he?

This book features elements of time travel and hallucinations. I find that difficult to process when reading (or even in watching something). I struggled with keeping up with aspects of the story for this reason.

This is a series that definitely needs to be read in order as there is too much information carried over from previous books in this series. Fantasy adventure readers will love this series and hope for more!

[Amber Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic Price

So the first book I read in this series was actually book number 2. I knew I had to go back and read the first one. I’m glad I did. Although I found book to enjoyable the information in book 1 helped me make sense of a few things. This series is a page turner. The creative world the author has created is by far one of the best I’ve encountered. I enjoy fantasy books (one of my favorite genres to read), this exceeded my expectations. I feel like I’m completely submerged in their world as I’m reading. The magic used in the story is a different flavor than I’m used to but it made it more interesting. There is never a full moment when n this story. Each character is unique and adds to the story. Even the ones you despise. Please give this series a chance. You won’t regret it!


Magic-Scars

This is by far one of the best series I have ever read. The amount of creativity and originality that went into creating this book is amazing. I could not put it down. I fell asleep reading it and picked it up as soon as I opened my eyes. I rejoiced in the small victories and hurt when Troy experienced the losses. I felt a sense of pride as his character evolved and he embraced who he was (lineage) while maintaining who he wants to be (better than his father and all the leaders focused on being the most powerful). Especially after what he went through in prison. I was completely shocked with learning about the door opener Lirih. The characters are so greatly written that any loss felt like I lost them. I highly recommend this book. It’s full of action, steam, love, and magic.


Magic-Borne

*Sigh* This is a bittersweet moment. Sweet because I thoroughly enjoyed this installment. Bitter because it’s the last one. This final installment blew my mind away. Ian Troy and his friends must face fate to save everyone. But in doing so will Ian finally turn into the beast he’s fought so hard against? Will he succumb to magic and turn out just like his father? It was captivating and page turning. At times intense. I haven’t enjoyed such a good book in a very long time. It’s definitely worth a read.


Boxed Set

I love that this is now in a box set! Easy to read in order now!

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set (The Crown of Stones Series) by C. L. Schneider. I have loved all these books in this amazing dark Fantasy trilogy. One of my favorite books is The Crown of Stones Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider. This is the story of Ian who is a Shinree, a Magic user whose race has an addiction to using magic. While trying to stop a war Ian used his magic to end a war and by mistake killed lots of fellow soliders and the woman he loved. He is on a mission to save the Rella Empire because he was sworn to do it. As he sets out on the journey he meets lots of people who are not his friends but pretend to be so he has to sort thru them all. He's also having to deal with a magic addiction and get it under control before it consumes him. This is a great adventure with lots of magic, sorcery, drama, action and intrigue. Once you pick this up you will not want to put it down. Do yourself a favor and start reading it today! The second book is just as good The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (Book 2) by C. L. Schneider . This is the second book in the Crown of Stones series and while it is not my favorite genre I have gotten sucked into this world and I want to read more and more. This is the continuing story of Ian Troy who has been captured by his old enemy King Draken of Langor. Ian has been sentenced to prison and while there he has been tortured, drugged, robbed of his will, his memories and his magic and made to do unspeakable things. As he awakens from the drug induced stupor he realizes this world is not familiar to him and that world is terrified. King Draken has taken control of the Crown of Stones and tore it up. Ian must find a way to repair the damage he has done. While Ian struggles to come to terms with the new man he is he finds his link to the Crown of Stones and uncovers all kinds of secrets. To save the Crown he must learn to deal with his magical powers without using the destructive appetite it creates. Will Ian succeed? I highly recommend reading the 1st book before. This book continues with the amazing story of magic, betrayal and mystery. Once you pick it up you won't want to put it down! Do yourself a favor and read this trilogy today!

[Kerry carr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 1- Magic Price
Wow what an amazing fantasy adventure this is.

Ian is Shinree. A magic users whos race has an addiction to using magic. However after Ian used magic to end a war and in the process killed his fellow soliders and the woman he loved he vowed to stay clear of magic for good.

However that has to change when there is conflict all over the place. He is sworn to protect the Rella empire but to do this is has to use his magic. With the help of some unlikely friends he starts on a journey to save Rella and on the way he learns more about his past and his history than he ever expected to know.

Its a page turner with loads of twists and turns the good guys turn out to be bad, the bad guys turn out to be good. No one is who they seem to be and all the while Ian has to work all this out and deal with his magic addiction before it takes over him for good.


Book 2- Magic Scars
This is the second book in the series.
In this story we follow Ian Troy with his journey from being captured and drugged, to finding his way back to the man he once was.

Along the way he delivers some retribution which leaves his skin marked. Why this happens no one knows but they search to find out.

To become the person the resistance need him to be he needs to be able to use his magic and control his addiction. The risk of him not being able to do that are too high.

Its an amazing second book to the series and i cant wait to read the third.

Book 3- Magic Bourne

This is the 3rd and final book in The Crown Of Stones Series.

It follows the continuing story of Ian Troy and his friends as they set out to ride the world of the evil Jem. But after an attack their resistance has fallen and Ian is struggling to control the magic inside him.

Ian is sent on a journey back in time to try and find out how to control the crowns magic, how to stop the spell thats changing him into an eldring and how to defeat his father so peace can return. This is no easy journey, people will be lost and things will be revealed that weren't expected.

I really enjoyed this series and this last book definately didn't disappoint.

[Santana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ian Troy is a 'Shinree' (witch), whose whole existence is frowned upon. The Shinree's magic, considered dangerous was shut down by feeding them drugs. Ian was not one of them. The desire to cast was strong within him but he refused until he found an ancient artifact, the Crown of Stones. With a war raging on for a very long time, Ian felt as if magic will solve it. With power emanating from the Crown, Ian gives in and cast a spell to end the war. Unfortunately, all magic comes with a price and the price was steep.

BOOK ONE: MAGIC PRICE
This book had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The author was very detail oriented. It was as if I was in the world myself. Pack filled with action, you will not regret this adventure.

BOOK TWO: MAGIC SCARS
I have been in love with this author since I read another one of their series called ‘Nite Fire’. I really enjoy this author’s writing. They are very focused and show a lot of attention and care with everything they write. Each character comes to life and the writing style in all of their books makes you lose yourself in the fantasy world. This book was no different. I enjoyed this book a little more than the first as it was more dark and twisted. I would highly recommend this book and anything else this author writes!

BOOK THREE: MAGIC BORNE
I loved the previous two books of the series and I did enjoy this one but I must admit, it was my least favorite of the three. The first two books gave me Witcher vibes while this one is too different. I found it hard to follow along during some scenes of time travel. That’s the only downside in my opinion.

The trilogy is amazing. The author wrote Ian with such depth and intensity that I have no idea how he managed to endure everything he went through. I am sad to see it end. I was introduced to this author’s books a couple years ago and I am so happy to go through this journey from start to finish. You can tell the author puts their heart and soul into the writing making the characters become more real.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy includes the books Magic-Price, Magic-Scars, and Magic-Borne. I read the books separately and highly recommend getting the entire series in one.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by CL Schneider is the first in The Crown of Stones trilogy. This book is a really great and intriguing start to a new series. Magic is reworked into something awe-inspiring and dangerous. Ian is addicted to magic. The problem is all magic comes with a price. What might be good for one, might pain another. Ian lays his hands and wields the Crown of Stones to help end a war. But what price must he pay for this power?
This is really well written and interesting. I like how magic comes with a cost. This is mentioned in other series but you rarely see the consequences. Ian sees the consequences of his power over and over.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars by CL Schneider is the second book in a fantastic series. The story of Ian Troy continues as more memories come back to him. He is trying to figure out his past so he can understand his future. The world they live in is very uncertain and dangerous. How will he work this all out?
The characters are very well written and guide the reader through a great story. I recommend reading these books in order because each book builds on the next. I have enjoyed many reads from this author and this did not disappoint.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne by CL Schneider is the third and final installment of The Crown of Stones series. This is a fantastic ending to a great trilogy of books. Ian Troy's story has been amazing to follow and I feel the author left the story in a good place. This is definitely a series you want to read in order because one book leads to the next. I love the amount of time and detail the author puts into her stories and this one doesn't disappoint. I am sad to see this one end but the author did a good job on the ending. I look forward to what this author writes next.

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the books individually but I think having them a s a box set is a real treasure trove 🥰📚

BOOK 1: MAGIC PRICE

I’ve not read fantasy in quite a while and I had a few reservations but I must admit I’m grateful I got the chance to read this , cover-art is just amazing 😉


The Shinree are a suppressed nation and “bred” as slaves and to serve and wait upon others ( this really saddens me )

Ian is a Shinree and cones from a family of warriors so it’s pretty much expected that he’s pulled into the ongoing war with the Langorians ….

Ian has a good heart but at times it felt like his goodness was being taken for granted and what’s a good story if there’s not a dash of romance 😍 all in all a magical welcome back into a world of fantasy 🍄


BOOK 2 : MAGIC SCARS

Again , just loving the cover art !


To me , it feels like Ian is seen as the saviour of the Shinree but at what cost ? He’s been beaten , tortured and broken , his people are free but still enslaved and oppressed and , people from all across are hungry for freedom and they’re looking to Ian , hoping he’s the one that’ll lead them but he’s needing to heal himself ….

What is his connection with The Crown of Stones ?

BOOK 3 : MAGIC BORNE

I like the covers on all the books in the series but this feels a little different , like the magic is possessing Ian and after reading , even more so 💥


This is the end of the trilogy and be sure to have read the other books otherwise you’ll feel totally lost , I’ll be honest I was exhausted as I binge read but that in no way reflects on the book ❣️📚 what I would recommend is take a breather in between each one that way you will take more in and do the series justice 🥰


The fate of an entire race lays at Ian’s feet and sacrifices have to be made and again it seems like it all falls on Ian . Everything comes together and there’s action , love , drama and quite a bit of action , so a few boxes have been ticked

[Ayla Phipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bravo C.L. Schnider, I now understand why I have seen this series everywhere. While this boxset was not my introduction to this incredible author or Ian Troy, I finally understood so much more about his story and the author’s talent. Already a big fan of C.L. Schnider, I was introduced to Ian Troy through the two Soulbound Journeys books. Having finally had a chance to go back and see where it all began, I was left awestruck by all her had overcome and made it out the other side, yes more scared both internally and externally but it gives so much more depth to the world and characters the author has created.
Ian Troy is a Shinree soldier. Their one downfall is their addiction to magic. Book One starts with the battle that changed the very map of the world itself. But Troy buried the crown with his fallen lover and queen and became a bounty hunter. Only the crown wasn’t done with him. Book Two, two years have passed since the events of book one and Troy has been beaten down and enslaved. Only now, he finds himself as a leader and so many others look to him for guidance and freedom. Book Three, Ian Troy is in hiding, the resistance has fallen, and he’s left trying to find a way to help the realm and the people who inhabit it.
Can Ian Troy get a handle on his addictions to save the realm? Will he become too broken, or will that feed his determination more? This entire world pulls every ounce of your soul into it. C.L. Schnider captured the power of legends like Tolkien and created her own ever-growing complex world that keeps you coming back for more. I may have read things out of order in the world of Ian Troy, but I can truly say that’s not gonna stop me from now going back to read Troy and discovering his full backstory that leads to him becoming the warrior that he was in the beginning of this trilogy.