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The City #1
City of Stone
In the City of Stone, where magic is might and shadows hold secrets, Kasperi Ironstone is about to become the key to an Empire's salvation—or its downfall.
Caught stealing to provide a better life for his little brother and sent to the dreaded labour camps, Kas emerges eight years later to a world on the brink of war, and a long-lost brother who now leads a rebellion.
As an unstoppable army threatens to invade, Kas and his band of unlikely allies must navigate a web of political intrigue and sabotage to expose a traitor and unite the fractured realm before it’s too late.
But when a shocking betrayal hits close to home, Kas is forced to choose between the brother he loves and the fate of the realm. Will Kas embrace his duty or let the Empire fall?
Fans of Brandon Sanderson and Brent Weeks will love this action-packed tale of magic, intrigue, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
Caught stealing to provide a better life for his little brother and sent to the dreaded labour camps, Kas emerges eight years later to a world on the brink of war, and a long-lost brother who now leads a rebellion.
As an unstoppable army threatens to invade, Kas and his band of unlikely allies must navigate a web of political intrigue and sabotage to expose a traitor and unite the fractured realm before it’s too late.
But when a shocking betrayal hits close to home, Kas is forced to choose between the brother he loves and the fate of the realm. Will Kas embrace his duty or let the Empire fall?
Fans of Brandon Sanderson and Brent Weeks will love this action-packed tale of magic, intrigue, and the unbreakable bonds of family.
- GenresFantasy
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
About the author
K.T. Holder
7 books29 followersK.T. Holder is a Taswegian who currently lives in Texas with her wife and three small fluffy dogs. When she’s not writing (or pretending to) she enjoys reading, watching documentaries (mainly true crime), watching “documentaries” (ie reality tv), and fulfilling the needs of her fluffy overlords.
A fifteen year army veteran, K.T. decided that she’d much prefer to make things up for a living, and so rekindled her love of writing.
Though pairing a foray into writing with quitting her job and moving internationally may not have been the smartest thing she has ever done, she loves writing (not as much as her amazing, supportive and understanding wife) and is excited about this next chapter (see what she did there?)
Get free prequel novellas to both K.T. Holder's series' over at her website (Https://www.ktholder.com/regent) and don't forget to drop her a line while you're there!
A fifteen year army veteran, K.T. decided that she’d much prefer to make things up for a living, and so rekindled her love of writing.
Though pairing a foray into writing with quitting her job and moving internationally may not have been the smartest thing she has ever done, she loves writing (not as much as her amazing, supportive and understanding wife) and is excited about this next chapter (see what she did there?)
Get free prequel novellas to both K.T. Holder's series' over at her website (Https://www.ktholder.com/regent) and don't forget to drop her a line while you're there!
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 27, 2026
Read for SPFBO, this is only my personal opinion, group verdict might differ widely!
City of Stone by K.T. Holder
This is one of those books I really enjoyed while reading, the kind I moved through in long stretches without losing interest. It has a strong emotional core, a cast that’s easy to care about, and a clear love for found family and loyalty. I liked it a lot, even when I could see the rough edges.
The story follows a group of young people who survive years in brutal labor camps with their magic bound, and then have to figure out who they are once they’re free. What stood out to me most was the way they come together. They are all from different backgrounds, different peoples, different experiences, and yet the bond between them feels natural and warm. The banter, friendship, and quiet loyalty are some of the book’s biggest strengths, and they carried me through the whole story.
One thing I really appreciated was how calmly and kindly the book treats unlearning. Kas starts out very empire centric in the way he thinks and speaks, using the names he grew up with for other peoples. Over time, he learns that those names can be hurtful or dismissive, and that groups like the Jatte and the Kikachi have their own names for themselves. Once he realises this, he simply makes an effort to do better. It’s not framed as a big moral moment, just a quiet adjustment, learning and respecting what matters to others.
The same approach shows up in more personal moments too. The book is very light on romance, which I loved. There is a bit of attraction here and there, mostly the awkwardness of young people figuring themselves out, but it never takes over the story. One scene in particular worked really well for me, when a character assumes romantic interest, gets corrected, blushes, apologises, and accepts it. There’s a touch of first attempts at love awkwardness, but it stays gentle and kind. It’s about friends recalibrating, teasing a little, and moving on. LGBT existence isn’t turned into a source of drama, just something that requires a moment of rethinking and adjustment between people who care about each other. That baseline of acceptance and willingness to learn felt genuinely comforting to read.
Alongside the main group, we also get POV chapters from a young empress trying to rule while surrounded by nobles who would rather protect their own power and wealth than care for their people. She’s lonely, sharp, and deeply frustrated by entitlement and patriarchy, and I found her chapters engaging and emotionally grounded. They add political weight to the story and show how difficult it is to do the right thing inside a system built to resist change.
There is also a POV from the opposing side, which I liked in theory for the added perspective and moral tension. Seeing the world through different eyes added an interesting contrast, even if that arc sometimes felt like it moved a little too quickly. The ideas behind it are strong, and I would have loved to see them given more space to unfold. This ties into a broader issue, as the book does sometimes feel a bit too easy. Conflicts resolve quickly, people often get along faster than expected, and answers tend to appear just when they’re needed. Nothing ever pulled me out of the story, but there were moments that made me pause with a raised eyebrow before continuing.
Overall, this is a book with a solid foundation, a lot of heart, and characters I genuinely enjoyed spending time with. It already shines in its found family, kindness, and emotional clarity, and that’s exactly why the rougher edges stood out to me. The frustration I felt came from caring, from seeing how close this story is to something truly excellent. With a bit more depth and polish, it could dazzle, and I’d happily follow these characters wherever the next book takes them.
City of Stone by K.T. Holder
This is one of those books I really enjoyed while reading, the kind I moved through in long stretches without losing interest. It has a strong emotional core, a cast that’s easy to care about, and a clear love for found family and loyalty. I liked it a lot, even when I could see the rough edges.
The story follows a group of young people who survive years in brutal labor camps with their magic bound, and then have to figure out who they are once they’re free. What stood out to me most was the way they come together. They are all from different backgrounds, different peoples, different experiences, and yet the bond between them feels natural and warm. The banter, friendship, and quiet loyalty are some of the book’s biggest strengths, and they carried me through the whole story.
One thing I really appreciated was how calmly and kindly the book treats unlearning. Kas starts out very empire centric in the way he thinks and speaks, using the names he grew up with for other peoples. Over time, he learns that those names can be hurtful or dismissive, and that groups like the Jatte and the Kikachi have their own names for themselves. Once he realises this, he simply makes an effort to do better. It’s not framed as a big moral moment, just a quiet adjustment, learning and respecting what matters to others.
The same approach shows up in more personal moments too. The book is very light on romance, which I loved. There is a bit of attraction here and there, mostly the awkwardness of young people figuring themselves out, but it never takes over the story. One scene in particular worked really well for me, when a character assumes romantic interest, gets corrected, blushes, apologises, and accepts it. There’s a touch of first attempts at love awkwardness, but it stays gentle and kind. It’s about friends recalibrating, teasing a little, and moving on. LGBT existence isn’t turned into a source of drama, just something that requires a moment of rethinking and adjustment between people who care about each other. That baseline of acceptance and willingness to learn felt genuinely comforting to read.
Alongside the main group, we also get POV chapters from a young empress trying to rule while surrounded by nobles who would rather protect their own power and wealth than care for their people. She’s lonely, sharp, and deeply frustrated by entitlement and patriarchy, and I found her chapters engaging and emotionally grounded. They add political weight to the story and show how difficult it is to do the right thing inside a system built to resist change.
There is also a POV from the opposing side, which I liked in theory for the added perspective and moral tension. Seeing the world through different eyes added an interesting contrast, even if that arc sometimes felt like it moved a little too quickly. The ideas behind it are strong, and I would have loved to see them given more space to unfold. This ties into a broader issue, as the book does sometimes feel a bit too easy. Conflicts resolve quickly, people often get along faster than expected, and answers tend to appear just when they’re needed. Nothing ever pulled me out of the story, but there were moments that made me pause with a raised eyebrow before continuing.
Overall, this is a book with a solid foundation, a lot of heart, and characters I genuinely enjoyed spending time with. It already shines in its found family, kindness, and emotional clarity, and that’s exactly why the rougher edges stood out to me. The frustration I felt came from caring, from seeing how close this story is to something truly excellent. With a bit more depth and polish, it could dazzle, and I’d happily follow these characters wherever the next book takes them.
June 11, 2026
Read for SPFBO, this is only my personal opinion, group verdict might differ widely!
While certainly not perfect, this found family story had so much going for it I could ignore almost anything that needed a little polish. And that's all that it needs, a little finesse, a little trim and it will be really good!
We open on Kas, our main character, trying to keep his brother both fed and out of trouble with the local gang. When little brother Soli manages to get himself into a situation that only Kas can get him out of, things go pretty badly for Kas. Caught to save him, Kas goes away for 8 long years.
We pick back up and the adventure really begins. Kas has some very good friends with him now but he really just wants to find his brother again! The book takes a turn when they reconnect and all is not what it should be. Solamon isn't the same and Kas has trouble navigating that and the fact that the realm really needs a hero.
One of my fav characters is Emilia, a Controller. Cool magic but even better, someone who wasn't prepared to FEEL for the people she's seeing around her. Her journey and learning are a highlight for me.
With several POV's we see a few sides of the story develop and eventually all come together. There is magic but it's not the core of the novel....people and relationships are. I love that.
City of Stone will keep you turning really enjoyable pages! I'm excited to continue the series.
Thank you to the author and Fantasy Faction for the opportunity to read and review this title.
While certainly not perfect, this found family story had so much going for it I could ignore almost anything that needed a little polish. And that's all that it needs, a little finesse, a little trim and it will be really good!
We open on Kas, our main character, trying to keep his brother both fed and out of trouble with the local gang. When little brother Soli manages to get himself into a situation that only Kas can get him out of, things go pretty badly for Kas. Caught to save him, Kas goes away for 8 long years.
We pick back up and the adventure really begins. Kas has some very good friends with him now but he really just wants to find his brother again! The book takes a turn when they reconnect and all is not what it should be. Solamon isn't the same and Kas has trouble navigating that and the fact that the realm really needs a hero.
One of my fav characters is Emilia, a Controller. Cool magic but even better, someone who wasn't prepared to FEEL for the people she's seeing around her. Her journey and learning are a highlight for me.
With several POV's we see a few sides of the story develop and eventually all come together. There is magic but it's not the core of the novel....people and relationships are. I love that.
City of Stone will keep you turning really enjoyable pages! I'm excited to continue the series.
Thank you to the author and Fantasy Faction for the opportunity to read and review this title.
December 11, 2025
Epic fantasy, found family, rebellion, magic, betrayal…this book has everything, and it never once lost me. We follow a multi POV cast that is so distinct and chaotic and loveable and the banter was so good I was actually laughing. The MMC Kas, a boy who loses everything, turns invisible (literally), and ends up paying for one impossible mistake with eight stolen years in a brutal labor camp. While at the labor camp, he forges bonds with a troll and shifter and later on with a mysterious girl. Over the years that he is away, he dreams of returning home to his brother and best friend, but a lot has happened since he has been captive. When they inadvertently escape, their journey becomes one giant quest for answers…and the found family energy is strong. There are multiple storylines going on at the same time, hence the need for multiple POV‘s. Meanwhile, we get POVs from an empress who is done with condescending men and political games. She’s sharp, lonely and hiding a BIG secret. There’s tension and mystery and worldbuilding that’s clear, fun, and never overwhelming. It’s epic fantasy without the confusion or heavily overdone romance and spice to deter from the storyline. And when I realized this was book one in a series, you better believe I’ll be reading every single installment until this story is complete.
January 14, 2026
Okay this book had me hooked from start to finish by the end of chapter one I new this book was going to be for me.
It had magic, political scheming, magic, and secrets I was ready do dive into.
This is told by many POV's which helped explore the story deeper, I loved all the characters and the humour which also supported the amount of drama.
This book had me hooked I could imagine everything I just wanted to dive head first into this book and not come back I was absolutely glued!!!
I'm so excited for book 2 I'm about to run off and look for it 👀♥️
It had magic, political scheming, magic, and secrets I was ready do dive into.
This is told by many POV's which helped explore the story deeper, I loved all the characters and the humour which also supported the amount of drama.
This book had me hooked I could imagine everything I just wanted to dive head first into this book and not come back I was absolutely glued!!!
I'm so excited for book 2 I'm about to run off and look for it 👀♥️
January 13, 2026
City of Stone by K.T. Holder is an epic fantasy, full of sacrifice, betrayal, and magic.
Told in multi-POV, we follow a diverse cast of characters with distinct voices and personalities. This book had me LOL'ing with some of the banter. The characters are WONDERFUL and so relatable. Whenever there was a POV change, I never thought to myself, "ugh, it's this person's chapter."
(If you ever read multi-POV, I know you KNOW what I mean.)
We mainly follow Kas, a young boy struggling to survive in a wealthy city that turns a blind eye to the poor. After losing his parents, Kas takes on the responsibility of raising his younger brother. To get by, Kas explores the life of a thief. It's not hard to do, considering one of his magical abilities allows him to turn invisible, but it lands him in trouble when he takes on a task that proves to be too much.
Kas loses eight years of his youth to a labor camp for his crime, and we time jump to him being a young man. During his time in the camps, he makes friends with a Troll, a Shifter, and a mysterious young woman. After an accidental escape, the four of them embark on a journey of self-discovery, driven by their determination for answers. What happened to Kas's younger brother while he was gone? Where is the Shifter's family? Who is the mysterious young woman? What will the Troll give up by helping his friends?
With a rebellion on the rise, I was DELIGHTED when another faction was introduced-a cult, of sorts-it adds to the depth of the novel and introduces another character who will undoubtedly be a key figure.
Another POV we follow is from the empress herself, who is one of my favorite characters. Thrust into a position of power, surrounded by old men who think she's a silly young woman who can't run an Empire, the empress is fed up with the mansplaining. She's relatable and longs for friendship. It seems the people around her forget that, beneath her title, she's still a human being. While hiding a dark secret, a childhood friend unexpectedly makes an appearance, and the empress's crown gets heavier.
While City of Stone is an epic fantasy, it's written in a refreshing way that isn't confusing.
K.T. Holder explains the world well without overwriting. It's clear and concise, with pronounceable names and areas. The writing style is tight, giving me enough of the world and characters to paint a detailed picture.
When I learned City of Stone was the first book in a series, I was PUMPED! I will be reading the next book ... and the next ... and the next ... and however many it takes until this story is whole, even though I don't want it to end!
Told in multi-POV, we follow a diverse cast of characters with distinct voices and personalities. This book had me LOL'ing with some of the banter. The characters are WONDERFUL and so relatable. Whenever there was a POV change, I never thought to myself, "ugh, it's this person's chapter."
(If you ever read multi-POV, I know you KNOW what I mean.)
We mainly follow Kas, a young boy struggling to survive in a wealthy city that turns a blind eye to the poor. After losing his parents, Kas takes on the responsibility of raising his younger brother. To get by, Kas explores the life of a thief. It's not hard to do, considering one of his magical abilities allows him to turn invisible, but it lands him in trouble when he takes on a task that proves to be too much.
Kas loses eight years of his youth to a labor camp for his crime, and we time jump to him being a young man. During his time in the camps, he makes friends with a Troll, a Shifter, and a mysterious young woman. After an accidental escape, the four of them embark on a journey of self-discovery, driven by their determination for answers. What happened to Kas's younger brother while he was gone? Where is the Shifter's family? Who is the mysterious young woman? What will the Troll give up by helping his friends?
With a rebellion on the rise, I was DELIGHTED when another faction was introduced-a cult, of sorts-it adds to the depth of the novel and introduces another character who will undoubtedly be a key figure.
Another POV we follow is from the empress herself, who is one of my favorite characters. Thrust into a position of power, surrounded by old men who think she's a silly young woman who can't run an Empire, the empress is fed up with the mansplaining. She's relatable and longs for friendship. It seems the people around her forget that, beneath her title, she's still a human being. While hiding a dark secret, a childhood friend unexpectedly makes an appearance, and the empress's crown gets heavier.
While City of Stone is an epic fantasy, it's written in a refreshing way that isn't confusing.
K.T. Holder explains the world well without overwriting. It's clear and concise, with pronounceable names and areas. The writing style is tight, giving me enough of the world and characters to paint a detailed picture.
When I learned City of Stone was the first book in a series, I was PUMPED! I will be reading the next book ... and the next ... and the next ... and however many it takes until this story is whole, even though I don't want it to end!
October 27, 2025
When I say I was mesmerized by this book, I mean mesmerized. From start to finish, it had everything I love! Magic, betrayal, political scheming, secrets… and I was here for all of it.
I absolutely loved that it’s told from multiple POVs and it gave so much depth to the story, plus the cheeky side characters added just the right amount of humour to balance out the drama. It’s one of those books that keeps you glued to the page and makes you think about the world long after you’ve finished.
I can’t wait to dive into the second book!
I absolutely loved that it’s told from multiple POVs and it gave so much depth to the story, plus the cheeky side characters added just the right amount of humour to balance out the drama. It’s one of those books that keeps you glued to the page and makes you think about the world long after you’ve finished.
I can’t wait to dive into the second book!
November 9, 2025
Our main character Kas has a magical gift of bending the light to make himself invisible. He’s magically inclined with other abilities but the invisibility is what gets the attention of a group of rebels. They task him with stealing a valuable relic from the Empire palace and they promise Kas and his kid brother (Salomon) a better life.
Kas gets caught (or chooses to get caught to spare another) and gets sent to labor camps with a metal collar that cuts off his magic.
During his time at the camp, he makes friends with other magicals from other tribes.
Ossi the huge half troll who is gentle and wise. Tia is a shapeshifter who was sent to the camps before she discovered her spirit animal. And Mira, a small sweet soul with a complex past.
We quickly get endeared to these new characters. It didn’t take long to form warm feelings for this group of friends. I loved that once we met them we got some of their POVs throughout the book.
After the time at the camps, Kas gets home to discover Salomon isn’t so little anymore and is leading the rebels with an iron fist and violent ideas.
Kas only wants to live a peaceful life and get the magic blocking collar off. He realizes he and his brother are no longer aligned in motives and heart.
The blurb does this story no justice. And it really can’t without spoiling lol
This world blossomed for me around the time Kas was in the camps, and I realized I was about to get so much more than just a rebellion story.
There was alot going on in this book (in an entertaining way, not an overwhelming way).
We get POVs of multiple characters including the Empress. So we got glimpses of inside castle politics and perspectives of people from places outside the Empire. It was a big world and I enjoyed every corner of it that we explored.
This was such a beautiful blend of a plot driven/character driven story. The plot sucks you in and holds your attention, and the characters are so lovable. These are people (or trolls and shifters) you want to root for.
With Tias POV, her time at her tribe felt like it needed more chapters or needed more time/detail with her. With everything going on there was a point where we panned back to Tia and I was like “Oh yea!! Tia!!”
This was a compelling fantasy that really was fun to read. I enjoyed my time with these characters. Im hoping that book 2 and 3 will tie up some loose ends and answer some lingering questions.
If I deeply analyze this book, I recognize there were some holes and it’s more of a 4 star/4.25 star read. With all of the moving parts, some things got left in the air or felt glazed over.
But if I base my rating on the feelings it gave me, or how invested I was, it’s a 4.5.
Keeping my rating at 4.5, since I haven’t finished the series it would be unfair for me to claim there’s plot holes.
“Sorry brother,” Salomon said…..I’m just so passionate because of what happened to you. To us. Because they won’t let us have your dream.”
“When they’d hugged and looked at each other with unadulterated joy. But if that feeling was a beautiful pond, resentment was slowly polluting the waters.”
“….you can’t expect to replace a lifetime of loving someone with the pain of one betrayal. Even a betrayal as significant as this.”
Kas gets caught (or chooses to get caught to spare another) and gets sent to labor camps with a metal collar that cuts off his magic.
During his time at the camp, he makes friends with other magicals from other tribes.
Ossi the huge half troll who is gentle and wise. Tia is a shapeshifter who was sent to the camps before she discovered her spirit animal. And Mira, a small sweet soul with a complex past.
We quickly get endeared to these new characters. It didn’t take long to form warm feelings for this group of friends. I loved that once we met them we got some of their POVs throughout the book.
After the time at the camps, Kas gets home to discover Salomon isn’t so little anymore and is leading the rebels with an iron fist and violent ideas.
Kas only wants to live a peaceful life and get the magic blocking collar off. He realizes he and his brother are no longer aligned in motives and heart.
The blurb does this story no justice. And it really can’t without spoiling lol
This world blossomed for me around the time Kas was in the camps, and I realized I was about to get so much more than just a rebellion story.
There was alot going on in this book (in an entertaining way, not an overwhelming way).
We get POVs of multiple characters including the Empress. So we got glimpses of inside castle politics and perspectives of people from places outside the Empire. It was a big world and I enjoyed every corner of it that we explored.
This was such a beautiful blend of a plot driven/character driven story. The plot sucks you in and holds your attention, and the characters are so lovable. These are people (or trolls and shifters) you want to root for.
With Tias POV, her time at her tribe felt like it needed more chapters or needed more time/detail with her. With everything going on there was a point where we panned back to Tia and I was like “Oh yea!! Tia!!”
This was a compelling fantasy that really was fun to read. I enjoyed my time with these characters. Im hoping that book 2 and 3 will tie up some loose ends and answer some lingering questions.
If I deeply analyze this book, I recognize there were some holes and it’s more of a 4 star/4.25 star read. With all of the moving parts, some things got left in the air or felt glazed over.
But if I base my rating on the feelings it gave me, or how invested I was, it’s a 4.5.
Keeping my rating at 4.5, since I haven’t finished the series it would be unfair for me to claim there’s plot holes.
“Sorry brother,” Salomon said…..I’m just so passionate because of what happened to you. To us. Because they won’t let us have your dream.”
“When they’d hugged and looked at each other with unadulterated joy. But if that feeling was a beautiful pond, resentment was slowly polluting the waters.”
“….you can’t expect to replace a lifetime of loving someone with the pain of one betrayal. Even a betrayal as significant as this.”
May 5, 2026
A hauntingly beautiful journey through a world I didn't want to leave.
Reading this felt like a discovery. You know that feeling when you pick up a book and realize within twenty pages that you’re going to be thinking about it for a week after you finish? That was City of Stone for me. It’s a masterclass in building a world that feels lived-in and stakes that feel earned.
Reading this felt like a discovery. You know that feeling when you pick up a book and realize within twenty pages that you’re going to be thinking about it for a week after you finish? That was City of Stone for me. It’s a masterclass in building a world that feels lived-in and stakes that feel earned.
October 31, 2025
What a fantastic journey!
Without spoilers, I can say that the story follows a fairly large and wonderfully diverse cast of characters on an incredible journey. The main character, Kas, is immediately likable, as are his close friends and when he is betrayed by someone he cares deeply for, the hurt hit HARD. I could FEEL the emotional tug-of-war going on inside Kas while also getting caught up in the literal magic of the world. All the different races and locations make the world feel big and real and lived in.
If you enjoy your fantasy stories gritty, character driven, set in huge, unique worlds, full of political intrigue, and layers of betrayal you wont see coming, you are going to LOVE this book.
I love epic fantasy and have been in a bit of a reading slump where the genre is concerned…Just couldn’t get into a story or bring myself to care about any of the characters in so many other books that I picked up, but K.T. Holder pulled me right out of that slump and I am beyond excited to dive in the second book in the series!
Thank you for writing such a wonderful book!
Without spoilers, I can say that the story follows a fairly large and wonderfully diverse cast of characters on an incredible journey. The main character, Kas, is immediately likable, as are his close friends and when he is betrayed by someone he cares deeply for, the hurt hit HARD. I could FEEL the emotional tug-of-war going on inside Kas while also getting caught up in the literal magic of the world. All the different races and locations make the world feel big and real and lived in.
If you enjoy your fantasy stories gritty, character driven, set in huge, unique worlds, full of political intrigue, and layers of betrayal you wont see coming, you are going to LOVE this book.
I love epic fantasy and have been in a bit of a reading slump where the genre is concerned…Just couldn’t get into a story or bring myself to care about any of the characters in so many other books that I picked up, but K.T. Holder pulled me right out of that slump and I am beyond excited to dive in the second book in the series!
Thank you for writing such a wonderful book!
October 22, 2025
I wrote my review under the second book. I really enjoyed both of them. Kas and his friends are on a journey to save everyone while also figuring out their lives. Kas quickly finds out what he wanted isn’t going to be what he is going to get. He tries to keep that dream going as long as he can despite how much his brother has changed.
There is a novella offered at the end of this book called Rise of the Divvinium. It’s a short 100 page story well worth the read if you liked this book. It’s sweet, it’s sad, it’s betrayal it has everything. It gives you a screenshot of what everyone went through and why they are all controllers now. There are other magicals living among the controllers. There is peace between them until the divvinium comes in. Wondering if we will see Leonard and Inari show up in the future?
There is a novella offered at the end of this book called Rise of the Divvinium. It’s a short 100 page story well worth the read if you liked this book. It’s sweet, it’s sad, it’s betrayal it has everything. It gives you a screenshot of what everyone went through and why they are all controllers now. There are other magicals living among the controllers. There is peace between them until the divvinium comes in. Wondering if we will see Leonard and Inari show up in the future?
January 18, 2026
The character work in this story completely swept me up, especially the found family dynamic that grows richer with every chapter. Ossie brings a warm, steady presence, Cassandra adds emotional weight and nuance, and Tia adds her own spark. Their bond feels authentic and deeply satisfying to follow. Readers who enjoy shifting loyalties, political intrigue, and expansive fantasy worlds will find plenty to love here. Even with multiple points of view, the author keeps the narrative smooth and cohesive, making each perspective feel essential to the larger story! I absolutely ate this story up and highly recommend it.
July 10, 2026
This was a very good start to what I imagine will be an epic story. I loved the characters in this book. The author writes in a way that makes it easy to read and follow even though it’s quite a large cast of characters and several storylines going on at the same time. The found family in this story is so lovely.
I did the last 50% of the book as immersive read with the audiobook (audio was gifted to me by the author, the book I bought myself). The audiobook was just amazing, the narrator did a wonderful job of bringing all the different characters alive with a wide range of voices and dialects. If you like audiobooks over physical reading then I highly recommend this audio.
So why not 5⭐️? Because I think I need some more stars to go on for what will be coming later on in the series. This was a very good start to the story, setting it up and building the world, the characters and what’s to come. Can’t wait to continue to see what happens with the Divinnium, the rebels, Kas and the rest of the group.
I can recommend signing up for KT’s newsletter and getting the free prequel novella, Rise of the Divinnium, and read that before starting City of Stone. It gives a nice view into what the Divinnium is.
I did the last 50% of the book as immersive read with the audiobook (audio was gifted to me by the author, the book I bought myself). The audiobook was just amazing, the narrator did a wonderful job of bringing all the different characters alive with a wide range of voices and dialects. If you like audiobooks over physical reading then I highly recommend this audio.
So why not 5⭐️? Because I think I need some more stars to go on for what will be coming later on in the series. This was a very good start to the story, setting it up and building the world, the characters and what’s to come. Can’t wait to continue to see what happens with the Divinnium, the rebels, Kas and the rest of the group.
I can recommend signing up for KT’s newsletter and getting the free prequel novella, Rise of the Divinnium, and read that before starting City of Stone. It gives a nice view into what the Divinnium is.
March 7, 2026
Just finished City of Stone by K.T. Holder and wow — this story hooked me right away. I found myself really invested in Kas and his journey. He’s the kind of character you can’t help but root for, and I felt genuinely connected to what he was going through as the story unfolded.
The world was vivid and easy to picture, and I loved getting pulled deeper into the story with each chapter. Watching Kas grow and face everything thrown at him kept me turning pages late into the night.
There were a couple slower moments that kept it from being a full five stars for me, but overall this was such an enjoyable read. If you like fantasy with heart, strong character journeys, and a story that pulls you in fast, City of Stone is definitely worth checking out.
The world was vivid and easy to picture, and I loved getting pulled deeper into the story with each chapter. Watching Kas grow and face everything thrown at him kept me turning pages late into the night.
There were a couple slower moments that kept it from being a full five stars for me, but overall this was such an enjoyable read. If you like fantasy with heart, strong character journeys, and a story that pulls you in fast, City of Stone is definitely worth checking out.
May 20, 2026
There's good bones to this book, but golly, did it need more fleshing out. 60-100 more pages would have done this one wonders. Needed more polish.
January 1, 2026
Theres no way i wasn’t diving directly into book 2. This sucks you in so deep. It is action forward and filled with drama to follow. It makes it easy to be fully engulfed in the story.
February 13, 2026
I loved this book- I’m a sucker for found family.
There were layers upon layers of plotting. All the major players had a plan, a scheme, or an agenda. Judging from where things were left, we’ll see a lot more of it in the follow-up books.
Kaz wants to save his brother, who just wants to be badass-in-charge. Emelia wants to bring down the Empire— or does she? Cassandra wishes to rule without the old farts in the back stymying her plans. Francisco hopes for peace— I think.
The world-building was completed without info-dumps; the various cities and towns laid out, along with their political machinations and affiliation to our heroes. While I’m still a bit unclear on how some of the magic works, I’ve got a decent handle on it.
Pacing was likewise great— something was always afoot, even in the mines where prisoners did the same thing day in, day out. The last few chapters, in particular, were frenetic.
Terrific book, looking forward to the next.
My reviews are my own opinions. Fantasy Faction reviews for SPFBO XI will very likely be markedly different, as a group consensus, or that of my associate judges.
There were layers upon layers of plotting. All the major players had a plan, a scheme, or an agenda. Judging from where things were left, we’ll see a lot more of it in the follow-up books.
Kaz wants to save his brother, who just wants to be badass-in-charge. Emelia wants to bring down the Empire— or does she? Cassandra wishes to rule without the old farts in the back stymying her plans. Francisco hopes for peace— I think.
The world-building was completed without info-dumps; the various cities and towns laid out, along with their political machinations and affiliation to our heroes. While I’m still a bit unclear on how some of the magic works, I’ve got a decent handle on it.
Pacing was likewise great— something was always afoot, even in the mines where prisoners did the same thing day in, day out. The last few chapters, in particular, were frenetic.
Terrific book, looking forward to the next.
My reviews are my own opinions. Fantasy Faction reviews for SPFBO XI will very likely be markedly different, as a group consensus, or that of my associate judges.
December 16, 2025
If you enjoy political intrigue with a found-family vibe, this book is for you! It's also very character-driven. K.T. Holder is so good at showing the reasoning behind each character's decisions.
I found myself cheering for Kas more than anyone else. I adore him so much, much like I would a little brother. (But that's because I'm old!) There were so many cute little moments in between the action that helped ground the story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
I found myself cheering for Kas more than anyone else. I adore him so much, much like I would a little brother. (But that's because I'm old!) There were so many cute little moments in between the action that helped ground the story. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
October 27, 2025
City of Stone (The City, #1)
by K.T. Holder
⭐️ 4.5 stars
Thank you to the wonderful author for the gifted eCopy! 💎
“Magic is a gift, loyalty is a curse.”
City of Stone hit me like a storm, the kind that doesn’t just pass through, but settles in and reshapes the landscape when it’s gone. K.T. Holder delivers a brilliant, character-driven fantasy that’s equal parts grit, heart, and breathtaking world-building. From the very first chapter, I was hooked by Kasperi Ironstone’s story, a thief with the ability to bend light, punished for his choices and hardened by eight long years in the labor camps. When he steps back into a world that’s changed without him, everything from the streets he knew to the brother he sacrificed for feels like unfamiliar ground.
What I loved most was how personal it all felt. Beneath the politics, the magic, and the looming war, this story beats with something raw: family, regret, loyalty, and love in all its complicated shades. Kas isn’t a hero in shining armor; he’s scarred, tired, and unsure which version of himself deserves redemption. And I loved him for it.
And then there’s the Empress: calculating, lonely, and quietly powerful. Every time she appeared, I sat up straighter. She’s the kind of character who lingers long after you close the book, her motives as sharp and layered as the empire she rules.
Holder balances epic stakes with an emotional intimacy that makes this world feel alive. The pacing never drags, the banter adds levity, and the relationships, found family, fractured brotherhood, fragile trust, feel achingly real.
What I Loved
• ⚔️ Kas and his brother’s dynamic - loyalty, guilt, and love wrapped in heartbreak
• 🪞 Multi-POV storytelling done perfectly - every voice matters
• 🧿 Found family energy - a troll, a shifter, a thief, and a fading empire
• 👑 The Empress - equal parts danger and depth
• 🪄 Magic that feels ancient, mysterious, and earned
What Didn’t Work As Well
• 🕰️ A few early transitions were a bit abrupt (but the rhythm finds itself fast)
• 📜 I wanted more lore - especially about the magic and the labor camps
• 💔 That ending. I’m not okay. (But I am begging for book two.)
TROPES / THEMES
• ⚔️ Found family in chaos
• 💀 Brothers on opposite sides of a war
• 🧭 Political intrigue and rebellion
• 🔮 Magic with consequences
• 👑 A weary ruler with hidden motives
• 💔 Betrayal close to home
Final Thoughts
City of Stone is everything I love about indie fantasy - richly written, deeply human, and impossible to put down. It’s got heart, humor, and that spark of danger that keeps you reading until your coffee’s gone cold.
If you love Brandon Sanderson’s scope, but crave a little more soul and a lot more tension, K.T. Holder has you covered. I’m already clearing space on my shelf for book two. 🖤
by K.T. Holder
⭐️ 4.5 stars
Thank you to the wonderful author for the gifted eCopy! 💎
“Magic is a gift, loyalty is a curse.”
City of Stone hit me like a storm, the kind that doesn’t just pass through, but settles in and reshapes the landscape when it’s gone. K.T. Holder delivers a brilliant, character-driven fantasy that’s equal parts grit, heart, and breathtaking world-building. From the very first chapter, I was hooked by Kasperi Ironstone’s story, a thief with the ability to bend light, punished for his choices and hardened by eight long years in the labor camps. When he steps back into a world that’s changed without him, everything from the streets he knew to the brother he sacrificed for feels like unfamiliar ground.
What I loved most was how personal it all felt. Beneath the politics, the magic, and the looming war, this story beats with something raw: family, regret, loyalty, and love in all its complicated shades. Kas isn’t a hero in shining armor; he’s scarred, tired, and unsure which version of himself deserves redemption. And I loved him for it.
And then there’s the Empress: calculating, lonely, and quietly powerful. Every time she appeared, I sat up straighter. She’s the kind of character who lingers long after you close the book, her motives as sharp and layered as the empire she rules.
Holder balances epic stakes with an emotional intimacy that makes this world feel alive. The pacing never drags, the banter adds levity, and the relationships, found family, fractured brotherhood, fragile trust, feel achingly real.
What I Loved
• ⚔️ Kas and his brother’s dynamic - loyalty, guilt, and love wrapped in heartbreak
• 🪞 Multi-POV storytelling done perfectly - every voice matters
• 🧿 Found family energy - a troll, a shifter, a thief, and a fading empire
• 👑 The Empress - equal parts danger and depth
• 🪄 Magic that feels ancient, mysterious, and earned
What Didn’t Work As Well
• 🕰️ A few early transitions were a bit abrupt (but the rhythm finds itself fast)
• 📜 I wanted more lore - especially about the magic and the labor camps
• 💔 That ending. I’m not okay. (But I am begging for book two.)
TROPES / THEMES
• ⚔️ Found family in chaos
• 💀 Brothers on opposite sides of a war
• 🧭 Political intrigue and rebellion
• 🔮 Magic with consequences
• 👑 A weary ruler with hidden motives
• 💔 Betrayal close to home
Final Thoughts
City of Stone is everything I love about indie fantasy - richly written, deeply human, and impossible to put down. It’s got heart, humor, and that spark of danger that keeps you reading until your coffee’s gone cold.
If you love Brandon Sanderson’s scope, but crave a little more soul and a lot more tension, K.T. Holder has you covered. I’m already clearing space on my shelf for book two. 🖤
September 21, 2025
Okay, let me scream about this book for a second. City of Stone by K.T. Holder had everything I want in fantasy.. multi-POV, found family, political intrigue, laugh-out-loud banter, and not once did I groan when a chapter switched POVs. (If you read multi-POV, you know exactly what I mean 👀).
Our MC is a thief who can turn invisible, which sounds like the best power ever… until it lands him in a labor camp for eight years. When he finally escapes, the world has moved on without him. His little brother is suddenly leading a rebellion, the Empire is about to collapse, and Kas is stuck in the middle trying to figure out where his loyalty lies. Along the way he teams up with a Troll, a Shifter, and a mysterious young woman, and the found family vibes had me hooked.
And then there’s the Empress. She might actually be my favorite character. She’s surrounded by old men who underestimate her at every turn, she’s lonely, she’s human, and she’s hiding secrets that make her crown even heavier. Every scene with her? Perfection.
This book feels epic without being overwhelming. No massive info dumps, no names I can’t pronounce, just clear, vivid writing that let me get lost in the world without feeling lost in the story.
I’ll be reading every single book until this story is finished, even though I don’t want it to end.
Highly recommend if you want a character-driven indie fantasy that proves every POV can be worth reading.
Our MC is a thief who can turn invisible, which sounds like the best power ever… until it lands him in a labor camp for eight years. When he finally escapes, the world has moved on without him. His little brother is suddenly leading a rebellion, the Empire is about to collapse, and Kas is stuck in the middle trying to figure out where his loyalty lies. Along the way he teams up with a Troll, a Shifter, and a mysterious young woman, and the found family vibes had me hooked.
And then there’s the Empress. She might actually be my favorite character. She’s surrounded by old men who underestimate her at every turn, she’s lonely, she’s human, and she’s hiding secrets that make her crown even heavier. Every scene with her? Perfection.
This book feels epic without being overwhelming. No massive info dumps, no names I can’t pronounce, just clear, vivid writing that let me get lost in the world without feeling lost in the story.
I’ll be reading every single book until this story is finished, even though I don’t want it to end.
Highly recommend if you want a character-driven indie fantasy that proves every POV can be worth reading.
November 3, 2025
City of Stone is a rare kind of fantasy—thoughtful, immersive, and unapologetically human. It reminded me of the novella 'Stonefather' in all the best ways. There are no easy heroes here, no cartoon villains—every faction, every class is complicated, flawed, and deeply believable.
One of the most memorable characters is the one gifted with invisibility. Where other stories might twist such a power toward madness (The Invisible Man comes to mind), this character becomes something far more interesting: a quiet observer. His gift doesn’t isolate him—it opens up his perception. Through unseen observation, he catches moments of truth that others miss, allowing the reader a kind of moral clarity without judgment. It’s one of the most original and meaningful uses of invisibility I’ve read.
And then there's the moment with the emperor. Without spoiling it, I’ll just say it struck something deep. It’s a scene that lingers.
The book’s political intrigue and emotional stakes, are strong. But what stood out most to me was its restraint—its willingness to let people be people, in all their broken beauty. City of Stone doesn’t demand your attention with spectacle. It earns it with truth.
Highly recommended.
One of the most memorable characters is the one gifted with invisibility. Where other stories might twist such a power toward madness (The Invisible Man comes to mind), this character becomes something far more interesting: a quiet observer. His gift doesn’t isolate him—it opens up his perception. Through unseen observation, he catches moments of truth that others miss, allowing the reader a kind of moral clarity without judgment. It’s one of the most original and meaningful uses of invisibility I’ve read.
And then there's the moment with the emperor. Without spoiling it, I’ll just say it struck something deep. It’s a scene that lingers.
The book’s political intrigue and emotional stakes, are strong. But what stood out most to me was its restraint—its willingness to let people be people, in all their broken beauty. City of Stone doesn’t demand your attention with spectacle. It earns it with truth.
Highly recommended.
September 8, 2025
If Aladdin grew up in the brutal world of The Last Kingdom...
From the very first chapter, City of stone pulls you in. Kas, A street thief with the gift of bending light brings a exciting flash of Aladdin for grown ups to mind. K.T Holder sets the stage perfectly in a city where that magic is not free and life is not easy.
Family ties between Kas and his younger brother drive the story early on with a sacrifice that cost Kas 8 years in a prison camp. When he is finally out, everything has changed, including his younger brother.
This book is both intimate and epic. the story never loses the emotional core of family and sacrifice. It also delivers big on the political intrigue, and clashes between the rulers and the rebellion.
I am a Last Kingdom fan so I found myself very much at home in this gritty, morally complex and well written world.
I think City of Stone is so well written that any fan of the fantasy Genre will love the way this story feels both well grounded and epic. I am a fan and I am hooked.
From the very first chapter, City of stone pulls you in. Kas, A street thief with the gift of bending light brings a exciting flash of Aladdin for grown ups to mind. K.T Holder sets the stage perfectly in a city where that magic is not free and life is not easy.
Family ties between Kas and his younger brother drive the story early on with a sacrifice that cost Kas 8 years in a prison camp. When he is finally out, everything has changed, including his younger brother.
This book is both intimate and epic. the story never loses the emotional core of family and sacrifice. It also delivers big on the political intrigue, and clashes between the rulers and the rebellion.
I am a Last Kingdom fan so I found myself very much at home in this gritty, morally complex and well written world.
I think City of Stone is so well written that any fan of the fantasy Genre will love the way this story feels both well grounded and epic. I am a fan and I am hooked.
October 5, 2025
Okay. I’ll be the one to say it.
This author shouldn’t be indie published. She should be traditionally published and this book should be on every shelf available on this planet.
This book is the first of a series and let me tell you: it does NOT disappoint. Different plotlines, Pov’s, and colorful characters, one more exciting than the next.
Kas returns from the labor camps a fugitive, and finds his brother… well… different. From here, the journey takes you on an amazing path, one of betrayal, rot, adventure, mystery, war, and somehow — I know not how — the author manages to make you laugh as well.
I cannot wait to start book 2 and see where this series takes me. Truly inspired and well designed book from whichever angle you look at it. Well done!
This author shouldn’t be indie published. She should be traditionally published and this book should be on every shelf available on this planet.
This book is the first of a series and let me tell you: it does NOT disappoint. Different plotlines, Pov’s, and colorful characters, one more exciting than the next.
Kas returns from the labor camps a fugitive, and finds his brother… well… different. From here, the journey takes you on an amazing path, one of betrayal, rot, adventure, mystery, war, and somehow — I know not how — the author manages to make you laugh as well.
I cannot wait to start book 2 and see where this series takes me. Truly inspired and well designed book from whichever angle you look at it. Well done!
August 20, 2025
Received a free copy of this book - so far I am enjoying it! I am looking forward to finishing and will follow-up with my full review when I do.
September 13, 2025
Just finished this book on KU and I absolutely loved it. Complex characters, excellent world building. I couldn't put it down. I'm starting book 2 right now.
spfbo-xi
March 19, 2026Read as a judge for SPFBOXI (Fantasy Faction)
RTC
RTC
September 8, 2024
*I recevied an advance copy of this book for my honest review*
This book is the first book in K.T. Holder's latest series and the second series written by this author. While K.T.Holder's debute 'Royal' series was a delight to read, you can see just how much the author has developed and grown with her writing since then.
Following a delightful mixing-pot of characters, from diverse cultural backgrounds, the story trips along at decent pace with something interesting always happening.
There is an element of levity, and humour in the writing despite the (sometimes dire) situations the author puts the characters in. It gives our characters a realistic depth that was easy to relate to, and allowed them to come to life quickly. And while we remain predominantly with Kas in this book, we also get to jump points of view and see what's happening and the thoughts of other characters.
I enjoyed reading this book immensely and would recommend it to anyone looking for a character-driven fantasy with interesting diverse characters.
Cannot wait for more!
This book is the first book in K.T. Holder's latest series and the second series written by this author. While K.T.Holder's debute 'Royal' series was a delight to read, you can see just how much the author has developed and grown with her writing since then.
Following a delightful mixing-pot of characters, from diverse cultural backgrounds, the story trips along at decent pace with something interesting always happening.
There is an element of levity, and humour in the writing despite the (sometimes dire) situations the author puts the characters in. It gives our characters a realistic depth that was easy to relate to, and allowed them to come to life quickly. And while we remain predominantly with Kas in this book, we also get to jump points of view and see what's happening and the thoughts of other characters.
I enjoyed reading this book immensely and would recommend it to anyone looking for a character-driven fantasy with interesting diverse characters.
Cannot wait for more!
November 1, 2024
The first book in a new series by K. T. Holder and it does not disappoint. This book has well developed characters in an intriguing diverse cultures. The characters are all relatable. The storyline has plenty of action and fun.And the world building skills are absolutely fantastic. I definitely recommend reading this book.
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