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Bone Magic #1
Stonehill Downs
Malachi is the last of his kind—a magus who can communicate with the dead, and who relies on the help of spirits to keep his kingdom safe. When he's sent to investigate brutal murders in the isolated village of Stonehill Downs, he uncovers dangerous sorceries and unleashes a killer who strikes close to home.
Avani is an outsider living on the Downs, one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands. She has innate magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she enters into a reluctant alliance with Malachi that takes her far from home.
But Mal is distracted by the suspicious death of his mentor and haunted by secrets from his past. And Avani discovers troubling truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, but first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horror that has arisen.
Avani is an outsider living on the Downs, one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands. She has innate magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she enters into a reluctant alliance with Malachi that takes her far from home.
But Mal is distracted by the suspicious death of his mentor and haunted by secrets from his past. And Avani discovers troubling truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, but first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horror that has arisen.
400 pages, ebook
First published December 2, 2014
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1306 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
April 9, 2017
Bone Magic: 1
This book is a bit of a mess. Random, incomprehensible things happen left and right, enticing the reader to continue in the hopes that it'll all come together and make sense, but unfortunately that almost never comes to pass. To add to the confusion, the author mixes in alternating POVs, unreliable narrators, characters that don't react to situations in a believable manner, and inconsistent characterization. There's not much of a plot, just random occurrences barely strung together, like the author has some kind of attention deficit disorder, flitting from one scene to another, often with time skips. So much time is wasted on things that have no relevance to the story. This was a frustrating read, though major threads (threads? they didn't feel like threads until the very end) are wrapped up at the end. The conclusion was unsatisfying, but left the story open for the sequel (but of course).
This book is a bit of a mess. Random, incomprehensible things happen left and right, enticing the reader to continue in the hopes that it'll all come together and make sense, but unfortunately that almost never comes to pass. To add to the confusion, the author mixes in alternating POVs, unreliable narrators, characters that don't react to situations in a believable manner, and inconsistent characterization. There's not much of a plot, just random occurrences barely strung together, like the author has some kind of attention deficit disorder, flitting from one scene to another, often with time skips. So much time is wasted on things that have no relevance to the story. This was a frustrating read, though major threads (threads? they didn't feel like threads until the very end) are wrapped up at the end. The conclusion was unsatisfying, but left the story open for the sequel (but of course).
September 21, 2016
Malachi Doyle is the King's Lord Vocent - a magus with the ability to communicate with the dead, and who relies on the assistance of the souls of the dearly departed to help him keep his kingdom safe. He is the last of his kind - highly regarded yet secretly feared by many - in his office as Royal Coroner. When he's sent to investigate a series of brutal murders in the isolated village of Stonehill Downs, he uncovers some dangerous and deadly sorcery and unleashes a killer who strikes close to home - much too close to home.
Avani is a newcomer to the Downs - one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands - a victim of an horrifying natural disaster that swept her island home beneath the sea. Four years later, Avani is still considered an outsider living on the Downs - liked by almost everyone, yet she still values her solitude. She has innate and ancient magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she fears that the darkness which claimed them will return sometime soon. Avani's fear forces her to make an uneasy alliance with Malachi, reluctantly accompanying the eminent magus to somewhere far from home.
But Mal is distracted by the mysterious death of his mentor. Despite being present at his bedside, Mal still has his own troubling suspicions over how the the old man died. He is also haunted by his memories of the past - holding secrets within his heart that are best kept buried in his past. And Avani discovers several disturbing truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, yet first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horrors that have arisen.
I really liked this story; it was a dark, action-oriented fantastic plot that I absolutely loved. Despite this being a very dark fantasy, there was still an inherently realistic element to the story that I enjoyed. Malachi and Avani are relatively similar characters, each wounded and flawed in their own ways, and unwillingly tossed together to save a kingdom that is not really their own. I give this book an A! and am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series; I want to know where the story goes from here.
Avani is a newcomer to the Downs - one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands - a victim of an horrifying natural disaster that swept her island home beneath the sea. Four years later, Avani is still considered an outsider living on the Downs - liked by almost everyone, yet she still values her solitude. She has innate and ancient magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she fears that the darkness which claimed them will return sometime soon. Avani's fear forces her to make an uneasy alliance with Malachi, reluctantly accompanying the eminent magus to somewhere far from home.
But Mal is distracted by the mysterious death of his mentor. Despite being present at his bedside, Mal still has his own troubling suspicions over how the the old man died. He is also haunted by his memories of the past - holding secrets within his heart that are best kept buried in his past. And Avani discovers several disturbing truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, yet first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horrors that have arisen.
I really liked this story; it was a dark, action-oriented fantastic plot that I absolutely loved. Despite this being a very dark fantasy, there was still an inherently realistic element to the story that I enjoyed. Malachi and Avani are relatively similar characters, each wounded and flawed in their own ways, and unwillingly tossed together to save a kingdom that is not really their own. I give this book an A! and am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series; I want to know where the story goes from here.
December 28, 2014
So I received an email from Harper Voyager suggesting this book (legalese: i'm part of their Super Reader program...free books for honest reviews!) and the jacket blurb made me immediately think of Tamara Siler Jones' "Dubric Byerly" fantasy/mystery series. While the bones of the two stories are vaguely similar (main guy is castellan/vocent, can see ghosts, English/Irish nomenclature), Remy lacks the polish with her first novel that Jones had with "Ghosts in the Snow".
This isn't a bad thing...Remy does a good job with the actual -telling- of her story, and that's at least half the battle of a writer right there. The character's are interesting, but the story as a whole seems a little flat. TSJ's world-building wraps you up so fast that you're left wanting to know more about it's history, why is magic outlawed etc. Remy has gore, but it feels like more of a placeholder than something to move the plot forward. Remy also gets sidetracked trying to figure out if her story is fantasy/horror or paranormal romance.
I know I sound like I'm bashing this novel, but if you look at my rating I gave it a solid 4 stars. Remy has a lot of possibility with this book, and I understand that I'm biased from the get-go because of my attachment to Jones' work. As an extension of the fantasy/mystery genre, Sarah Remy is doing a fine job and I will definitely be watching for future releases.
This isn't a bad thing...Remy does a good job with the actual -telling- of her story, and that's at least half the battle of a writer right there. The character's are interesting, but the story as a whole seems a little flat. TSJ's world-building wraps you up so fast that you're left wanting to know more about it's history, why is magic outlawed etc. Remy has gore, but it feels like more of a placeholder than something to move the plot forward. Remy also gets sidetracked trying to figure out if her story is fantasy/horror or paranormal romance.
I know I sound like I'm bashing this novel, but if you look at my rating I gave it a solid 4 stars. Remy has a lot of possibility with this book, and I understand that I'm biased from the get-go because of my attachment to Jones' work. As an extension of the fantasy/mystery genre, Sarah Remy is doing a fine job and I will definitely be watching for future releases.
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November 19, 2015The story is really a murder mystery set in a world of kings and magic. Avani is a weaver who can see the supernatural. Living alone on the Downs, she is the first to find a mutilated corpse that heralds the arrival of an otherworldly evil to the neighboring village. Malachi is the young magus who visits to investigate. Avani is soon forced to leave her life behind for the complications of court life, while also learning that Malachi has secrets which might connect him to the horror that has descended on the village. Mal and Avani are fantastic characters, but anything that might happen between them is complicated by what haunts Malachi from his past. There are two are other intriguing main characters who might be good or evil, who add to the tension of the mystery Mal and Avani are trying to solve. I loved the partnership between what seems to be wild magic and procedural magic. The ending is quite a twist. I can't wait to read more about these characters and the world they inhabit.
February 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this fantasy ebook and have only a few reservations. It was obvious that the book had not benefited from an editor as there were several spelling mistakes and homonyms in the text. Also, the story wandered in parts and too much attention was given to side issues rather than driving the story onwards.
The main characters were interesting and engaging but the world building was very standard - sort of medieval Britain plus magic. I have decided to read the sequel and I would be interested to see whether the author has ever been picked up by a publisher and encouraged to develop her skills.
The main characters were interesting and engaging but the world building was very standard - sort of medieval Britain plus magic. I have decided to read the sequel and I would be interested to see whether the author has ever been picked up by a publisher and encouraged to develop her skills.
July 3, 2017
This was a nice change from typical fantasy tropes. I liked the characters; they felt realistic (well, realistic. but magical). Another reviewer was confused by shifting POVs; I found the POV changes pretty clearly marked. I liked that the ending was left open for a sequel, but still gave a satisfying ending.
November 13, 2017
I won this book in a giveaway and I am really glad I did. A very well written novel with great characters that you care about. The very best is the fresh new ideas in a genre that has been a bit stale of late! I can't wait to read the rest! Great job Sarah!
January 23, 2021
Two fit the editing, she's got talent. This book just isn't for me.
January 20, 2015
Source: Requested from Netgalley
Original Review: Old Bat's Belfry
This is a story of two souls who were tailor made for each other. Though if you were to ask them, they would vehemently disagree. One is Malachi, who is the last known magus. A man who deals with the spirits of the dead. Then there is Avani who is a refugee witch, a loner and who, as it happens, can see both ghosts and visions.
Together they must fight off a great evil. One that threatens their kingdom. But first they must discover its source.
♦ My Thoughts. Sometimes it is hard to write a review of a good book. One that is not great but one that is not horrible either.
When you loved, or hated, the book you can't wait to pour out your feelings, impressions, accolades or complaints. There is passion involved. That passion gives your words wings.
This is a good book by a talented author. In my opinion, an author worth watching, but it isn't a book that elicited much excitement for me. Instead it was a laid back sort of read. One you might chose if you are not in the mood for a complicated, multilayered Epic Fantasy.
♦ What I Liked. This story tries to be several things and while it is focused on one thing or another, it does them extremely well.
When it is focused on being character driven, the characters come to life. Worldbuilding, for the most part, is the same. When the focus is on the plot, the story is mysterious, chilling, and riveting.
♦ What I didn't like. What this story doesn't do is combine all of that wonderful focus into a seamless story. It was alot like trying to take in a panoramic view. You never know where to focus your attention. And the sad thing is, I ended up wishing for more answers than I got.
The characters were great but incomplete. I got a taste of who they were and where they came from but only a taste. Why is Malachi the last of his kind. And how did he end up with his ghostly companion. Why is Avani all alone. She survived the destruction of her homeland at an age that was too young to have completed training in her craft. However, even though there are other survivors of her race, she lives apart. What is her raven and why does it spend so much time watching over everybody but her.
I got a glimpse of their world. Enough of one that I was intrigued but only a glimpse. I wanted to know so much more. What exactly happened to Avani's homeland. How do the local religious beliefs mesh with the practice of necromancy. What are the social, economic, and cultural traditions of this civilization. What is its history. The list goes on.
It is even possible that some of the answers were there but due to the way the focus kept shifting, I lost track. Often concepts -- like religious icons for example -- need to be subtly reinforced from time to time. That way you can stay in the moment without thumbing back through the chapters trying to remember what god was mentioned where or what tenet of faith is being applied currently.
It left me feeling a bit disconnected at times.
♦ Conclusion. In a way, the fact that I wanted so much more from this story is a compliment to the author. She did create characters and a world I was interested in. The ending was every bit as surprising as I had hoped. Once it is all said and done, I look forward to reading more of her stories.
Like I said. This is an author to watch...
Original Review: Old Bat's Belfry
This is a story of two souls who were tailor made for each other. Though if you were to ask them, they would vehemently disagree. One is Malachi, who is the last known magus. A man who deals with the spirits of the dead. Then there is Avani who is a refugee witch, a loner and who, as it happens, can see both ghosts and visions.
Together they must fight off a great evil. One that threatens their kingdom. But first they must discover its source.
♦ My Thoughts. Sometimes it is hard to write a review of a good book. One that is not great but one that is not horrible either.
When you loved, or hated, the book you can't wait to pour out your feelings, impressions, accolades or complaints. There is passion involved. That passion gives your words wings.
This is a good book by a talented author. In my opinion, an author worth watching, but it isn't a book that elicited much excitement for me. Instead it was a laid back sort of read. One you might chose if you are not in the mood for a complicated, multilayered Epic Fantasy.
♦ What I Liked. This story tries to be several things and while it is focused on one thing or another, it does them extremely well.
When it is focused on being character driven, the characters come to life. Worldbuilding, for the most part, is the same. When the focus is on the plot, the story is mysterious, chilling, and riveting.
♦ What I didn't like. What this story doesn't do is combine all of that wonderful focus into a seamless story. It was alot like trying to take in a panoramic view. You never know where to focus your attention. And the sad thing is, I ended up wishing for more answers than I got.
The characters were great but incomplete. I got a taste of who they were and where they came from but only a taste. Why is Malachi the last of his kind. And how did he end up with his ghostly companion. Why is Avani all alone. She survived the destruction of her homeland at an age that was too young to have completed training in her craft. However, even though there are other survivors of her race, she lives apart. What is her raven and why does it spend so much time watching over everybody but her.
I got a glimpse of their world. Enough of one that I was intrigued but only a glimpse. I wanted to know so much more. What exactly happened to Avani's homeland. How do the local religious beliefs mesh with the practice of necromancy. What are the social, economic, and cultural traditions of this civilization. What is its history. The list goes on.
It is even possible that some of the answers were there but due to the way the focus kept shifting, I lost track. Often concepts -- like religious icons for example -- need to be subtly reinforced from time to time. That way you can stay in the moment without thumbing back through the chapters trying to remember what god was mentioned where or what tenet of faith is being applied currently.
It left me feeling a bit disconnected at times.
♦ Conclusion. In a way, the fact that I wanted so much more from this story is a compliment to the author. She did create characters and a world I was interested in. The ending was every bit as surprising as I had hoped. Once it is all said and done, I look forward to reading more of her stories.
Like I said. This is an author to watch...
October 18, 2017
i was the lucky winner of a copy of this novel through a goodreads win. it is a very complex story set in medieval times about a young woman who possesses magical skills and a man who also possesses magical skills in the form of talking to the dead. they reluctantly join up in trying to solve a series of horrible murders. their alliance is complicated by feelings of attraction for each other that neither of them want. this story is very descriptive of medieval days and involves lots of action, drama and a touch of romance. a great read. syndi
January 16, 2015
'The gods were never gentle with the ones they favored.'
Finding any biographical information on author Sarah Remy is a semi-fruitless mission. She apparently is form the State of Washington, an `equestrian, urban farmer, tortoise herder, and a reviewer for Readwave `(ReadWave is a new place for sharing 3 minute stories. We believe that 3 minutes is all it takes to tell a story that can change your life. We call these stories ReadWaves. A ReadWave can be about anything -- a confession, an experience, an inspiration a life-changing decision or even something fictional.) Or to quote the author's self description, ` I write fiction to keep real life from getting out of hand, I jump pretty horses over pretty fences because it's a distraction from the real and the fantastic, I do Sun Salutations between 6 am and 7 am because I believe in discipline, and I live in an old house because I believe the best things last more than 100 years.' Now we can gather an idea of the mind of the author from this information - a quirky, fantasy oriented, Will-o'-the-Wisp thinker whose imagination and fantasy world could easily translate to paper.
For those who have not ventured into Sarah realm and extent of history and mythology, a magus is a member of a priestly caste of ancient Persia. Sarah manipulates her creativity like a painter spreading a huge canvas - every detail is polished. Her own synopsis of the complex plot is bet: `Malachi is the last of his kind--a magus who can communicate with the dead, and who relies on the help of spirits to keep his kingdom safe. When he's sent to investigate brutal murders in the isolated village of Stonehill Downs, he uncovers dangerous sorceries and unleashes a killer who strikes close to home. Avani is an outsider living on the Downs, one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands. She has innate magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she enters into a reluctant alliance with Malachi that takes her far from home. But Mal is distracted by the suspicious death of his mentor and haunted by secrets from his past. And Avani discovers troubling truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, but first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horror that has arisen.'
The writing style is entertaining enough to appeal to those not a part of the Young Adult sector and Sarah Remy is definitely making her mark on this genre of novels that are daily proving to be the literature of choice of many eager followers.
Finding any biographical information on author Sarah Remy is a semi-fruitless mission. She apparently is form the State of Washington, an `equestrian, urban farmer, tortoise herder, and a reviewer for Readwave `(ReadWave is a new place for sharing 3 minute stories. We believe that 3 minutes is all it takes to tell a story that can change your life. We call these stories ReadWaves. A ReadWave can be about anything -- a confession, an experience, an inspiration a life-changing decision or even something fictional.) Or to quote the author's self description, ` I write fiction to keep real life from getting out of hand, I jump pretty horses over pretty fences because it's a distraction from the real and the fantastic, I do Sun Salutations between 6 am and 7 am because I believe in discipline, and I live in an old house because I believe the best things last more than 100 years.' Now we can gather an idea of the mind of the author from this information - a quirky, fantasy oriented, Will-o'-the-Wisp thinker whose imagination and fantasy world could easily translate to paper.
For those who have not ventured into Sarah realm and extent of history and mythology, a magus is a member of a priestly caste of ancient Persia. Sarah manipulates her creativity like a painter spreading a huge canvas - every detail is polished. Her own synopsis of the complex plot is bet: `Malachi is the last of his kind--a magus who can communicate with the dead, and who relies on the help of spirits to keep his kingdom safe. When he's sent to investigate brutal murders in the isolated village of Stonehill Downs, he uncovers dangerous sorceries and unleashes a killer who strikes close to home. Avani is an outsider living on the Downs, one of the few survivors from the Sunken Islands. She has innate magics of her own, and when she discovers the mutilated bodies of the first victims, she enters into a reluctant alliance with Malachi that takes her far from home. But Mal is distracted by the suspicious death of his mentor and haunted by secrets from his past. And Avani discovers troubling truths about the magus through her visions. She could free Malachi, but first they must work together to save the kingdom from the lethal horror that has arisen.'
The writing style is entertaining enough to appeal to those not a part of the Young Adult sector and Sarah Remy is definitely making her mark on this genre of novels that are daily proving to be the literature of choice of many eager followers.
December 24, 2014
Originally published at "The Nameless Zine". Check it out for more reviews.
I really wanted to like this book.
Published as part of Harper Voyager’s new “Impulse” line, this budget priced e-book (a limited-run paperback is coming later this month) was “discovered” in an open call for submissions and chosen from over 4500 manuscripts.
Billed as a murder mystery/procedural with magicians, Sarah Remy’s debut follows Malachi, the vocent (necromancer) for King Renault who is sent to the remote Stonehill Downs to investigate a series of gruesome murderers. He is joined by Avani, an immigrant shepherd and weaver from the vanished island nations who also has a strange connection to the spirit world. Avani has a raven familiar, named Jacob, while Malachi is followed by the spirit of his dead wife Siobhan. The pair attempt to find the killer while unravelling a deeper conspiracy that points towards Malachi’s mentor.
Unfortunately I found everything a little undercooked.
Nothing seemed to develop properly. The world-building borrowed heavily from English and Scottish history and the plot threads seemed overly tangled. At points Remy seemed more concerned with developing a romance or examining courtly life than forwarding the murder mystery.
She also made it painfully obvious who were the central players in the case – with Malachi’s half-brother’s timely arrival and the young Liam’s mysterious survival when everyone else in his village was slaughtered.
But even with those signposts, Remy pulled another plot point from thin air for the finale, turning to a tired trope that I won’t mention for fear of spoiling the novel.
I did like Remy’s characters, especially Liam and Avani, and the descriptions of Avani’s artistry and Renault’s court life were vivid, but they bogged the story down from its main plot.
There is potential in this new author, and perhaps the upcoming sequel will tie everything together better, but Stonehill Downs just left me underwhelmed.
Still, for a debut author discovered in an open call, I have to salute Sarah Remy’s success in just getting noticed. Hopefully this will lead to bigger and better things for this young writer.
I really wanted to like this book.
Published as part of Harper Voyager’s new “Impulse” line, this budget priced e-book (a limited-run paperback is coming later this month) was “discovered” in an open call for submissions and chosen from over 4500 manuscripts.
Billed as a murder mystery/procedural with magicians, Sarah Remy’s debut follows Malachi, the vocent (necromancer) for King Renault who is sent to the remote Stonehill Downs to investigate a series of gruesome murderers. He is joined by Avani, an immigrant shepherd and weaver from the vanished island nations who also has a strange connection to the spirit world. Avani has a raven familiar, named Jacob, while Malachi is followed by the spirit of his dead wife Siobhan. The pair attempt to find the killer while unravelling a deeper conspiracy that points towards Malachi’s mentor.
Unfortunately I found everything a little undercooked.
Nothing seemed to develop properly. The world-building borrowed heavily from English and Scottish history and the plot threads seemed overly tangled. At points Remy seemed more concerned with developing a romance or examining courtly life than forwarding the murder mystery.
She also made it painfully obvious who were the central players in the case – with Malachi’s half-brother’s timely arrival and the young Liam’s mysterious survival when everyone else in his village was slaughtered.
But even with those signposts, Remy pulled another plot point from thin air for the finale, turning to a tired trope that I won’t mention for fear of spoiling the novel.
I did like Remy’s characters, especially Liam and Avani, and the descriptions of Avani’s artistry and Renault’s court life were vivid, but they bogged the story down from its main plot.
There is potential in this new author, and perhaps the upcoming sequel will tie everything together better, but Stonehill Downs just left me underwhelmed.
Still, for a debut author discovered in an open call, I have to salute Sarah Remy’s success in just getting noticed. Hopefully this will lead to bigger and better things for this young writer.
December 5, 2014
I was given a promotional copy of this book by Harper Voyager U.S. for review.
Stonehill Downs is the story of Malachi, the king’s vocent (talks to spirits) and last magus in the kingdom, sent to the remote village of Stonehill Downs to investigate the very weird and bloody murders of a local lord and some Kingsmen. It is also the story of Avani, a foreign weaver, who has settled in Stonehill Downs and is the one to find the bodies. Unfortunately, soon after he arrives to investigate, things escalate, and Malachi and Avani are thrown together for survival. He’s haunted by his dead wife, she has a raven familiar and gets sporadic visions, and together they have to work to solve the mystery of what is happening on the Downs, before whatever-it-is spreads and destroys the kingdom.
I liked this book. It had a good mix of elements: magic, mystery, good characters with layers, a good pace, enjoyable writing. The central mystery of the book is handled well – Remy keeps it interesting enough to hold up as the main plot line, while not making the solution to the puzzle super obvious, and still leaving room for other side things to be going on. That’s a fine balance to walk. The relationship between Malachi and Avani is intriguing; you can see it change and grow through the book. I do wish the author had gone a bit more into the history of the world. I feel like I know the characters, but not that I really know too much about the world, especially in regards to Avani’s original home and certain legends that come up whose significance I feel like I’m missing because we don’t have that history.
However, the author has said this is book #1 of a 2-book series, so I’m excited to see what she has in store for book #2 – it might address some of those points. Overall, definitely a good read, and I will be picking up that second book. :)
Stonehill Downs is the story of Malachi, the king’s vocent (talks to spirits) and last magus in the kingdom, sent to the remote village of Stonehill Downs to investigate the very weird and bloody murders of a local lord and some Kingsmen. It is also the story of Avani, a foreign weaver, who has settled in Stonehill Downs and is the one to find the bodies. Unfortunately, soon after he arrives to investigate, things escalate, and Malachi and Avani are thrown together for survival. He’s haunted by his dead wife, she has a raven familiar and gets sporadic visions, and together they have to work to solve the mystery of what is happening on the Downs, before whatever-it-is spreads and destroys the kingdom.
I liked this book. It had a good mix of elements: magic, mystery, good characters with layers, a good pace, enjoyable writing. The central mystery of the book is handled well – Remy keeps it interesting enough to hold up as the main plot line, while not making the solution to the puzzle super obvious, and still leaving room for other side things to be going on. That’s a fine balance to walk. The relationship between Malachi and Avani is intriguing; you can see it change and grow through the book. I do wish the author had gone a bit more into the history of the world. I feel like I know the characters, but not that I really know too much about the world, especially in regards to Avani’s original home and certain legends that come up whose significance I feel like I’m missing because we don’t have that history.
However, the author has said this is book #1 of a 2-book series, so I’m excited to see what she has in store for book #2 – it might address some of those points. Overall, definitely a good read, and I will be picking up that second book. :)
January 20, 2015
A Unique Combination Of Fantasy, Mystery and Suspense!!
Avani is a stranger among the people of Stonehill Downs. But when she and her raven Jacob discover four brutally murdered men on her property and three are Kingsmen she wonders why, but her visions tell her nothing. When Malachi the vocent, who speaks to the dead, is sent to investigate, he unleashes a killer that wipes out the whole village. Leaving only Avani, Mal and a young lad named Liam on a quest to save the kingdom from an unknown danger and solve the murders.
Remy has a unique writing style that combines fantasy, mystery and suspense keeping the reader intrigued. I greatly enjoyed the connection and dialogue between the characters of Avani and Mal. The strength within Avani is remarkable, a woman on her own willing to stand up against anyone to protect her own. While Mal fights the haunting demons of his past and the suspicious death of his mentor makes him a sad, lonely soul but will stop at nothing to complete his quest. The storyline is rich with suspenseful twists and turns making for an outstanding tale to become lost in. A quick read as the reader is anxious to know what is around the next turn. There is clearly something here for everyone, so don't miss the remarkable tale of “Stonehill Downs”. This is one I will be definitely rereading again.
Avani is a stranger among the people of Stonehill Downs. But when she and her raven Jacob discover four brutally murdered men on her property and three are Kingsmen she wonders why, but her visions tell her nothing. When Malachi the vocent, who speaks to the dead, is sent to investigate, he unleashes a killer that wipes out the whole village. Leaving only Avani, Mal and a young lad named Liam on a quest to save the kingdom from an unknown danger and solve the murders.
Remy has a unique writing style that combines fantasy, mystery and suspense keeping the reader intrigued. I greatly enjoyed the connection and dialogue between the characters of Avani and Mal. The strength within Avani is remarkable, a woman on her own willing to stand up against anyone to protect her own. While Mal fights the haunting demons of his past and the suspicious death of his mentor makes him a sad, lonely soul but will stop at nothing to complete his quest. The storyline is rich with suspenseful twists and turns making for an outstanding tale to become lost in. A quick read as the reader is anxious to know what is around the next turn. There is clearly something here for everyone, so don't miss the remarkable tale of “Stonehill Downs”. This is one I will be definitely rereading again.
January 16, 2015
I was a bit skeptical about reading Stonehill Downs, but I decided to give it a shot anyway. Sarah Remy definitely has talent, and she shows a lot of promise in this one. It's an extremely easy read and Remy writes in language that is easy to understand and follow. The book was a pretty quick read overall; I ended up reading the entire thing in one night. I found it to be interesting and engaging for the most part, with a lot of well written characters.
I started getting into the Fantasy Genre just a few months ago, so now I'm interested in everything Fantasy. I have read a lot of them, so I think I'm a pretty good judge. Stonehill Downs is good in that department, and It's written in a way that will be enjoyable for all age groups. I actually passed this along to my teenage niece, and she absolutely loved it.
My favorite character is probably Malachi. He's overall a good person, but gets into a pretty dangerous situation that he has to fight his way out of. His interaction with the other characters is quite interesting as well, and I was drawn to the storyline from that point on.
Overall, if you're a fan of Fantasy, Stonehill Downs is a definite must read for all ages.
I started getting into the Fantasy Genre just a few months ago, so now I'm interested in everything Fantasy. I have read a lot of them, so I think I'm a pretty good judge. Stonehill Downs is good in that department, and It's written in a way that will be enjoyable for all age groups. I actually passed this along to my teenage niece, and she absolutely loved it.
My favorite character is probably Malachi. He's overall a good person, but gets into a pretty dangerous situation that he has to fight his way out of. His interaction with the other characters is quite interesting as well, and I was drawn to the storyline from that point on.
Overall, if you're a fan of Fantasy, Stonehill Downs is a definite must read for all ages.
February 6, 2015
5.0 out of 5 stars Stonehill Downs is a great fantasy with many an interesting twist and turn., February 4, 2015
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This review is from: Stonehill Downs (Kindle Edition)
Author Sarah Remy has, in my opinion, written a great fantasy. I found it easy to understand and picture the fantasy world she created. The language she uses in the full-length novel Stonehill Downs is easy to follow. All her characters come to life for me. As a reader I enjoyed following along the journey as it evolved.
Malachi is the main character, and the story becomes of great interest when he gets himself into and out of many intriguing and romantic situations.
Avani the other main character is also drawn deep into dangerous circumstances.
The two main characters work together to overcome the murder and mayhem that occurs. Their magic is brought to the fore and enables them to overcome all their adversities.
Author Sarah Remy can keep the reader turning the pages as new disasters occur and I would recommend the reading of this great fantasy as a must read for all ages.
February 23, 2015
Firstly I won this book through the Goodreads First Reads giveaways, so thanks to them.
This book is an easy and engaging fantasy book that flows well. The story is seen through the eyes of Malachi (the last Vocent/Mage, who can see spirits) and Avani (and her bird Jacob) who are are brought together by the murders of Kingsmen at Stonehill Downs. After the destruction of Avani's village, in which the dead rise to slaughter everyone, she reluctantly travels with Mal to the capital to discover what evil is washing across the land and to find a way to stop it. Travelling with Mal is his dead wife, and the interaction with her and Avani is quite interesting and central to the plot. Along the way Avani's magical abilities begin to grow which disturbs her invigorate Mal. Saying more would give away too much
Although this seems a self contained book the ending does leave it open to continue the adventures of Malachi and Avani. If you enjoy light-hearted fantasy then this is for you.
This book is an easy and engaging fantasy book that flows well. The story is seen through the eyes of Malachi (the last Vocent/Mage, who can see spirits) and Avani (and her bird Jacob) who are are brought together by the murders of Kingsmen at Stonehill Downs. After the destruction of Avani's village, in which the dead rise to slaughter everyone, she reluctantly travels with Mal to the capital to discover what evil is washing across the land and to find a way to stop it. Travelling with Mal is his dead wife, and the interaction with her and Avani is quite interesting and central to the plot. Along the way Avani's magical abilities begin to grow which disturbs her invigorate Mal. Saying more would give away too much
Although this seems a self contained book the ending does leave it open to continue the adventures of Malachi and Avani. If you enjoy light-hearted fantasy then this is for you.
December 22, 2016
A tale of cultural clash and poignant love, violence and discovery is told with compassion and detail. Remy has created a land where lies magic and death and barrows and others.
This story details murder and growth.
Avani is a survivor of a natural disaster and both lonely and alone. She tends sheep and weaves, seen as an outsider in Stonehill Downs. Mal is a Vocent, the king's counselor, mortician, detective and assassin. He is ghost ridden and is some ways as lonely as Avani.
Remy crafts memorable characters and creates a new look at those who live under the barrows. She has put together a plot and has woven a story of intricate tapestry with vivid colors and startling scenes.
I really enjoyed the book.
Web: http://www.sarahremy.com/?book=stoneh...
This story details murder and growth.
Avani is a survivor of a natural disaster and both lonely and alone. She tends sheep and weaves, seen as an outsider in Stonehill Downs. Mal is a Vocent, the king's counselor, mortician, detective and assassin. He is ghost ridden and is some ways as lonely as Avani.
Remy crafts memorable characters and creates a new look at those who live under the barrows. She has put together a plot and has woven a story of intricate tapestry with vivid colors and startling scenes.
I really enjoyed the book.
Web: http://www.sarahremy.com/?book=stoneh...
November 23, 2014
Pub date: Dec 2, 2014
What a fascinating fantasy! Like a fast- paced mystery, the author draws you into Avani's world quickly, but you have to be patient to figure out Mal's; two great characters who I look forward to seeing again. This might even be a re-read for me- I'm so reluctant to let the world go, especially since there's so much revealed at the end. I don't want to spoil this good book for anyone else, so I won't say anything more but READ IT and don't read more about it until after!
What a fascinating fantasy! Like a fast- paced mystery, the author draws you into Avani's world quickly, but you have to be patient to figure out Mal's; two great characters who I look forward to seeing again. This might even be a re-read for me- I'm so reluctant to let the world go, especially since there's so much revealed at the end. I don't want to spoil this good book for anyone else, so I won't say anything more but READ IT and don't read more about it until after!
January 16, 2015
Sarah Remy gives us an enjoyable read with lively characters and a fully realized world. Malachi is the last of the Magi ( priest ) he speaks with the dead and is the obvious one to investigate a series of brutal murders on the down. Avani is your typical outsider, not someone native to the downs, she too has magic. The two work together to solve the murders and learn to trust each other with long held secrets.
I would recommend it to those new to the fantasy genre and young readers.
I would recommend it to those new to the fantasy genre and young readers.
November 27, 2016
Wow!
One of my favorite fantasy reads of 2016.
Love the character of Avani : sounds like the Island that she is from is based on India?
I like that she is darker complected.
Malachi is another great character - I love the tortured, serious, magister trope.
There is a hint of romance to come.
The side characters like Liam and Kate are well fleshed out.
Books 2 -3 are out, so I am eager to keep reading....
One of my favorite fantasy reads of 2016.
Love the character of Avani : sounds like the Island that she is from is based on India?
I like that she is darker complected.
Malachi is another great character - I love the tortured, serious, magister trope.
There is a hint of romance to come.
The side characters like Liam and Kate are well fleshed out.
Books 2 -3 are out, so I am eager to keep reading....
December 2, 2014
I liked this story. A fantasy, where Avani and Malachi can speak with the dead and dream of dangers yet to come. Avani 's town is destroyed and all the villagers murdered, the king sends Malachi to find out who would do such a crime. They learn to work together and will have more adventures together as this is the first in a series. Great read for teens to adults.
April 11, 2015
* Copy via Goodreads First Reads and the author *
I'm not a huge fan of fantasy, but this was a pretty good read. It lagged a little in the middle, but picked up again in the end.
I'd love to see a book about Avani's beginnings living on the Sunken Islands. I think that would be a very interesting read!
I'm not a huge fan of fantasy, but this was a pretty good read. It lagged a little in the middle, but picked up again in the end.
I'd love to see a book about Avani's beginnings living on the Sunken Islands. I think that would be a very interesting read!
December 6, 2014
Excellent fantasy
I really enjoyed the rich characters in this book. I was drawn in quickly and wanted to know what would happen to them. The world she creates is rich with traditions and Lord and I hope there is a second novel so I can immerse myself in it again.
I really enjoyed the rich characters in this book. I was drawn in quickly and wanted to know what would happen to them. The world she creates is rich with traditions and Lord and I hope there is a second novel so I can immerse myself in it again.
August 15, 2015
2,5 stars
December 21, 2015
I received this book in the giveaways. It was a very enjoyable read. Kept my attention throughout. I would recommend this book. Looking forward to reading other books by this author.
August 5, 2016
Goodreads Book. I really liked the book. Very well written
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