The Shape of Stones

by Hildur Knútsdóttir

As a young scholar sets out on a research project to find the stones where the settlers of Iceland made human sacrifices, a long dormant volcano rouses...and other, long-sleeping horrors might also be stirring.

At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.

Genres: Horror, Short Stories, Fiction, Contemporary, Fantasy

10 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 12, 2025

Reviews

[Thibault Busschots · Rating 3 out of 5]

A young scholar is trying to find some stones where the Viking settlers of Iceland did their human sacrifices.


It’s basically a number of a diary entries of the scholar looking for the sacrificial stones. Love the historical references, like with the runes. It’s an atmospheric short horror read that does quite a few things right, but it abruptly ends in what feels like the middle of the story. It’s a solid story, but it just doesn’t reach its full potential because of the ending. A few more pages could have taken this to the next level.

[Radwa · Rating 3 out of 5]

It ended just when it was starting to get interesting. I like the atmosphere and setting and i like it when the protgonist is unsuspecting and enthusiastic about something and doesn't realize how dangerous that thing is.

[emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

30 in 30 challenge : 6/30

there's a genre of story that's like, scientist accidentally uncovers old thing related to old gods and doesn't know better than to dig it up "for science!", or like, scientist doesn't believe in gods, fucks around, finds out. this belongs in that category.

[Nella ☾ of Bookland · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm not sure what this was tbh

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was fully along for the ride until suddenly ended, though perhaps it meant for my imagination to continue the tale.

[S.A Reidman · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was...maybe not meh but somewhere in the vicinity ... Maybe not enough of a specific scene, maybe too much of what seems like filler monolgue and you end up an almost...

Norse,Vikings and Appeasing Gods!  I usually inhale this stuff. The delivery was a let down like Amazon drivers dropkicking a package on your front porch. I get it, it's a short story, but it was shorter than a short story in feeling.

So, I realize I prefer the all-seeingomnipresent point of view, third person but I'm not anti first person, no wait maybe I am.🤷🏽‍♀️ This was ...fine, not like wine or anything luxurious, just a way to pass 20 minutes. 

The dream sequences had potential- if only we went into each one with some unshakeable imagery. Two lines of a dream was like hyping up JaRule to get on stage only to find no one in the crowd because 50 Cents bought all the tickets.  The ending was something, sigh, more would have been better, 

That Character: Unremarkable 
Favorite/Curious/Unique Scene:Finding the runes
Favorite/Curious/Unique Quotes:
🖤 You can’t escape being known. (Small Town vibes)
Favorite/Curious/Unique Concepts:
■Sacrificial Stones connected to deep roots
Cover because I'm a bird:Love it
This book's whole vibe: I've got nothing
GR Rating:2⭐
CAWPILE:4
Re-read or Once-off No thanks
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2027
Challenge Prompt: 150 Short Stories by 2027

[andi · Rating 1 out of 5]

uhh

[Badseedgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read as part of the Tor.com Free Short Story Challenge 2025

This very short story (10 pages according to Goodreads) reads very simply. I'm not sure if it is because it was a translation into English or if the author wanted it that way. Either way it gave a light feeling to a creepy tale. I loved how the reader is forced to conjecture why the personal notes end the way they do.
There are many of the traditional horror tropes in this story, science if not necessarily scoffing, at least disregarding ancient verbal history, and the young disregarding the wisdom of the old.
I imagine the farmer in this story interchangeable with Enos the truck driver warning Annie, in the beginning of the movie Friday the 13th. Everyone remembers Ralph because he seemed crazy, but Enos also tries to warn Annie when he drops her off at the road leading to the camp. Like Enos the farmer warns the scholar. She does it plainly and after giving her warning, moves on. She, like Enos seems to feel she has done her duty with her warning.

All in all a very successful short tale.

[Per · Rating 3 out of 5]

https://reactormag.com/the-shape-of-s...

[Joe Caputo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice, short story. Wish it were a bit longer, but then it probably wouldn't be quite as good.

[Sarah Jensen]

Note: Much respect to the author for opting out of DRMs

Book Review: The Shape of Stones by Hildur Knútsdóttir

Despite it's ten short pages, Hildur Knútsdóttir’s The Shape of Stones is a beautifully woven narrative that explores themes of identity, memory, and the interconnectedness of nature and human experience. Set against the backdrop of Iceland’s striking landscapes, this novel takes readers on a journey that is both introspective and expansive, reflecting on the ways in which our surroundings shape who we are.

A Compelling Exploration of Identity

At the heart of The Shape of Stones is the protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery is profoundly influenced by her familial ties and the rich history of the land. Knútsdóttir’s exploration of identity is nuanced, delving into how personal and ancestral memories intertwine to create a sense of belonging. As the protagonist grapples with her heritage and the expectations placed upon her, readers are invited to reflect on their own identities and the roles that family and culture play in shaping them.

Nature as a Character

Knútsdóttir masterfully employs the Icelandic landscape as a living, breathing character in the story. The vivid descriptions of the rugged terrain, volcanic landscapes, and serene coastlines not only paint a picturesque backdrop but also serve to underscore the emotional states of the characters. The natural world is intricately tied to the narrative, symbolizing both the beauty and the harshness of life. This connection to nature adds depth to the story, illustrating how the environment can influence feelings of isolation, hope, and resilience.

Poetic Language and Imagery

The prose in The Shape of Stones is lyrical and evocative, drawing readers into a world where every word is carefully chosen. Knútsdóttir’s poetic language enriches the reading experience, creating a sensory immersion that resonates throughout the novel. The imagery is striking, with metaphors and similes that invite readers to see the world through the protagonist’s eyes. This attention to language not only enhances the emotional weight of the story but also reflects the beauty of the Icelandic landscape itself.

Themes of Connection and Change

The novel further explores themes of connection—both to the land and to other people. Knútsdóttir examines the relationships that define us and the profound impact these connections have on our lives. As the characters navigate their personal challenges, the evolving nature of their relationships highlights the importance of support and understanding. The book also addresses the inevitability of change, capturing the tension between the desire for stability and the need for growth.

Conclusion: A Thought-Provoking Read

The Shape of Stones is a powerful meditation on the complexities of identity and the ways in which our surroundings shape our experiences. Hildur Knútsdóttir has crafted a rich and immersive narrative that invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, making it a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary literature that explores the interplay between people and place. With its evocative prose and deep philosophical insights, this novel is sure to resonate long after the final page is turned. Highly recommended for those who appreciate beautifully written stories that explore the human experience in all its nuances.

[Catia Araujo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just finished The Shape of Stones by Hildur Knútsdóttir, and I’m still sorting through my thoughts. This atmospheric read had a haunting vibe and a unique premise, but it didn’t fully hit the mark for me. While I appreciated the writing and the eerie setting, I found myself wanting more depth from the characters and a stronger emotional pull.
3/5 stars from me.

[Kam Yung Soh · Rating 3 out of 5]

A researcher goes to Iceland to research on stones that may have been used for human sacrifices. But his attempts to clean and dig up one such suspected stone coincides with the eruption of a volcano, and other unusual earth movements.

[Sam Taylor · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great concept and scene but not enough content or sensory description here to draw me in unfortunately. I’d be interested in other, fuller work by the author though, this was my first brush with Icelandic horror.

[Ellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Incredibly atmospheric folk horror short story set in the rocky landscape of Iceland. It reflects on how an interest can turn into passion and obsession and the danger of this… especially when there might be dark forces awakening.

I just wish it had been longer 😊

[Cynthia Joy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recommended for horror fans.

[Heaven Ashlee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chilling!

[Sierra Hess · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a fan of the sudden ending, I think it might have needed just a little bit more?

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars.

Nice little short shot of a story. Manages to put a lot into only 10 pages.

[Fey]

NR. Would have enjoyed learning what greatness awaited the narrator, and to know more. The story kind of abruptly ends. Leaves you kind of unsatisfied honestly :/

[Chloe · Rating 3 out of 5]

link: https://reactormag.com/the-shape-of-s...

[Wayne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was good, but it it ended much too early.

[LunaW · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love it!

[Thia Reads A Lot]

2*

This story feels incomplete, but I liked the "format" (a diary written by a scholar during their research on the stone were people were sacrificed in ancient times) and the setting of the story.

Summary: Investigating a few different stones in a field, then finding the right one. A volcano nearby starts erupting. There are earthquakes. The farmer is against the research. The last entry doesn't really give answers.

[Lace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a bit sad that it ends so abruptly, but I understand the author's choice. Positively eerie, and a nice taste of folk horror.