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What Grows From Stone
Eneza is the only human among a colony of magical orphicti. Abandoned in the woods by her mysterious mother and left to wonder about her own kind, Eneza’s once fruitful, vibrant land is struck by a blight that’s killing everything. Along the way, she discovers how to mend it, but at what cost?
As tensions within her colony rise, and those hunting them close in on all sides, Eneza finds herself alone and on the run. That is, until she encounters two Corrian soldiers who offer her protection. Who will she trust? Charming, dynamic Vio who provides her the solace she longs for or dark, brooding Axis bound by duty alone?
As their journey wears on and secrets are revealed, Eneza navigates a world plagued by corruption in pursuit of a destiny that is too much for a girl who’s never felt like she was enough. With desire blooming from hardened places, Eneza must decide whether to give or take, love or leave, remain true to herself or bury her tumultuous feelings in stone.
Before it’s too late.
As tensions within her colony rise, and those hunting them close in on all sides, Eneza finds herself alone and on the run. That is, until she encounters two Corrian soldiers who offer her protection. Who will she trust? Charming, dynamic Vio who provides her the solace she longs for or dark, brooding Axis bound by duty alone?
As their journey wears on and secrets are revealed, Eneza navigates a world plagued by corruption in pursuit of a destiny that is too much for a girl who’s never felt like she was enough. With desire blooming from hardened places, Eneza must decide whether to give or take, love or leave, remain true to herself or bury her tumultuous feelings in stone.
Before it’s too late.
- GenresFantasy
316 pages, Paperback
Published August 11, 2026
About the author
Olive Mannella
1 book65 followersMy debut novel, What Grows From Stone, is out now! Order on my website 🌀
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 9, 2026
honored to be an ARC reader for this! what an amazing feat it is to write a novel. i was impressed with several aspects of the plot that felt creative and fresh. i enjoyed that the author wanted to evoke and discuss deep emotion. the ending was intriguing and the final plot twist got me!
however, i just needed MORE. much of this book was telling instead of showing. i was not as invested as i could have been, got lost in timing and who/what/where, and the stakes never felt super high. it needed a couple more rounds of editing - i highlighted several parts where words were incorrectly used or awkwardly chosen, or where sequences of events just didn’t make sense. several of the “hard hitting” events or plot points had very cheesy lines that (to me) felt like they were purposefully put there to be a “cool” line - if that makes sense.
however, i just needed MORE. much of this book was telling instead of showing. i was not as invested as i could have been, got lost in timing and who/what/where, and the stakes never felt super high. it needed a couple more rounds of editing - i highlighted several parts where words were incorrectly used or awkwardly chosen, or where sequences of events just didn’t make sense. several of the “hard hitting” events or plot points had very cheesy lines that (to me) felt like they were purposefully put there to be a “cool” line - if that makes sense.
August 30, 2026
I never leave reviews, but Olive's Tiktok or Instagram video came up on my feed showing the journey of her writing this book. I bought it to support a new author and honestly, I was shocked. Olive is an incredibly writer and this book had me hooked!! The deception, the secrecy, the yearning, I just loved the story line and characters. I can't wait to see more of Olive's work and be even more proud of someone I've never met!!
May 20, 2026
This book was so much fun to read. The characters will have you experiencing some very complex emotions, from cover to cover. The magic system is phenomenal, and it's one of the easiest fantasy books I've ever read, when it comes to understanding. Everything is laid out perfectly, and the progression of the story builds up to such a jaw dropping ending.
It's a must read...10/10 no notes.
It's a must read...10/10 no notes.
May 22, 2026
This debut fantasy novel is fast paced, unique, and emotionally traumatic…the perfect recipe for a great book!✨
Have you ever felt like you were too much? Look no further because when the FMC’s magic emerges at 18, she’s a “natural fucking disaster”. And it’s true— she struggles to find her place in the world and soon discovers maybe she’s more important than people have originally taught her to believe. Led by two soldiers, her heart splits between the two in seek for the truth and understanding of who she is. She loves fast and falls hard.
The reactions from the main characters show so much emotional and relatable depth. The twists will have your jaw on the ground. It’s a must read!
Have you ever felt like you were too much? Look no further because when the FMC’s magic emerges at 18, she’s a “natural fucking disaster”. And it’s true— she struggles to find her place in the world and soon discovers maybe she’s more important than people have originally taught her to believe. Led by two soldiers, her heart splits between the two in seek for the truth and understanding of who she is. She loves fast and falls hard.
The reactions from the main characters show so much emotional and relatable depth. The twists will have your jaw on the ground. It’s a must read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2026
Being a part of the beta readers group was SUCH a privilege for Olive's debut novel (and fantasy??? omg, what a challenging genre that she still knocked out of the park). So a huge thank you to Olive for allowing me to be a part of this.
As someone who followed Olive's journey on TikTok ahead of the beta readers getting their hands on the book, I wasn't surprised at all when I saw how much time and effort went into the world building and magic system. For a debut fantasy novel, I felt like I could fully see what Olive was envisioning as she developed the story ahead of putting pen to paper! And a twist at the end that I didn't see coming at all (and it didn't feel like it was an added twist just to end on a cliffhanger) :P
My only qualm with the story is the lack of depth in some of the characters' relationships with each other-- the pacing is great given the shorter length and I think the character's we see at length had personal development that played well, yet I still felt like I needed more development *between* Eneza and some of the key characters in the book. I think a bit more showing rather than explanation could have gone a long way with making the [often shifting] dynamics between characters much more believable.
As someone who followed Olive's journey on TikTok ahead of the beta readers getting their hands on the book, I wasn't surprised at all when I saw how much time and effort went into the world building and magic system. For a debut fantasy novel, I felt like I could fully see what Olive was envisioning as she developed the story ahead of putting pen to paper! And a twist at the end that I didn't see coming at all (and it didn't feel like it was an added twist just to end on a cliffhanger) :P
My only qualm with the story is the lack of depth in some of the characters' relationships with each other-- the pacing is great given the shorter length and I think the character's we see at length had personal development that played well, yet I still felt like I needed more development *between* Eneza and some of the key characters in the book. I think a bit more showing rather than explanation could have gone a long way with making the [often shifting] dynamics between characters much more believable.
May 24, 2026
5 ⭐️!!! It was so fun to be an ARC reader for my friend’s debut novel! It’s so obvious that Olive is a gifted author and was literally made to write this book and release it into the world.
As a girly who doesn’t usually gravitate towards romantasy… this book challenged all my preconceived notions of the genre. First, the pacing was fantastic from beginning to end, with the Italian-inspired world being revealed bit by bit throughout the book. One of my biggest gripes with the romantasy genre is too much time spent in world-building mode — but WGFS had just enough details to hook me in from the beginning and revealed more and more about the world along the way.
Second, the characters were deep and messy, which I just loved. I was cheering for them on one page and wanted to punch them in the face on the next. 😂 The character developments and revelations felt genuinely earned, and as the reader — I really connected with the characters as if they were real, imperfect humans.
Lastly, the PLOT TWISTS. Y’all, I do NOT usually crank through a book this quickly (let alone a romantasy book), but I couldn’t stop turning pages here to see what would happen next. There was a perfect amount of detail-dropping breadcrumbs along the way to make each plot twist feel justified and well-earned. And no spoilers… but holy cliff hanger??! I’d rip into book 2 immediately if I could!
I can’t wait for all my friends to read this book so I can yap about it with somebody. 🫠 Olive Mannella is the next great romantasy writer that everyone should have on their radars!
As a girly who doesn’t usually gravitate towards romantasy… this book challenged all my preconceived notions of the genre. First, the pacing was fantastic from beginning to end, with the Italian-inspired world being revealed bit by bit throughout the book. One of my biggest gripes with the romantasy genre is too much time spent in world-building mode — but WGFS had just enough details to hook me in from the beginning and revealed more and more about the world along the way.
Second, the characters were deep and messy, which I just loved. I was cheering for them on one page and wanted to punch them in the face on the next. 😂 The character developments and revelations felt genuinely earned, and as the reader — I really connected with the characters as if they were real, imperfect humans.
Lastly, the PLOT TWISTS. Y’all, I do NOT usually crank through a book this quickly (let alone a romantasy book), but I couldn’t stop turning pages here to see what would happen next. There was a perfect amount of detail-dropping breadcrumbs along the way to make each plot twist feel justified and well-earned. And no spoilers… but holy cliff hanger??! I’d rip into book 2 immediately if I could!
I can’t wait for all my friends to read this book so I can yap about it with somebody. 🫠 Olive Mannella is the next great romantasy writer that everyone should have on their radars!
May 30, 2026
Wow, what an incredible debut novel from Olive! I’m so happy I was chosen to be an ARC reader for her first ever novel - she clearly has immense talent and I’m excited to see where not only this story goes, but where all of her future stories go!
What Grows From Stone definitely has an incredible, one of a kind/first of its kind magic system that is so cool! I love how different everything in this novel is. I’ve said it in many of my reviews, but I’m always pleasantly surprised when there’s a new magic system instead of the same recycled fae shadow daddies.
The characters in this book also have an impressive depth to them and will definitely make you experience a full range of emotions while reading. I often felt like I wanted to strangle the FMC, but at the same time she is incredibly real and messy and bold and like-able. Most of the characters are messy, but I like that about them.
Overall, this was a very fun, unique book and I am really excited to see where the story goes! There’s lots of fun twists and turns and some great plot twists. Let’s just say I didn’t see the ending coming at all lol. Can’t wait for book 2 and beyond!!
What Grows From Stone definitely has an incredible, one of a kind/first of its kind magic system that is so cool! I love how different everything in this novel is. I’ve said it in many of my reviews, but I’m always pleasantly surprised when there’s a new magic system instead of the same recycled fae shadow daddies.
The characters in this book also have an impressive depth to them and will definitely make you experience a full range of emotions while reading. I often felt like I wanted to strangle the FMC, but at the same time she is incredibly real and messy and bold and like-able. Most of the characters are messy, but I like that about them.
Overall, this was a very fun, unique book and I am really excited to see where the story goes! There’s lots of fun twists and turns and some great plot twists. Let’s just say I didn’t see the ending coming at all lol. Can’t wait for book 2 and beyond!!
May 27, 2026
i am so grateful to say that i was chosen as an ARC reader for this beautiful story (i honestly can't believe this is her first novel!)
as a girly who feels things so deeply and also feels like too much at times, this story and character truly resonated with me.
the plotting, twists, characters, and magic system were intriguing, captivating, and utterly unique. i hadn't realized i was so invested until my heart was literally beating out of my chest in anticipation - props to you Olive!
as a girly who feels things so deeply and also feels like too much at times, this story and character truly resonated with me.
the plotting, twists, characters, and magic system were intriguing, captivating, and utterly unique. i hadn't realized i was so invested until my heart was literally beating out of my chest in anticipation - props to you Olive!
August 11, 2026
4.5/5 stars
A heartfelt thank you to Olive Mannella for entrusting me with an advance copy of What Grows From Stone. It has been such a privilege to step into this world before its release and to experience the beginning of Eneza’s story. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read and share my thoughts on Olive’s debut.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about stepping into a fantasy world that feels completely and unmistakably its own. What Grows From Stone draws you into one unlike any I’ve encountered before, shaped by an originality that extends far beyond the fantastical and into the very foundations of its world.
From its civilisations and politics to its magic, landscapes and the creeping threat of the blight, Olive Mannella has created a world that feels imaginative, expansive and beautifully unique. It continually offered something new to discover, and I was completely hooked by the possibilities of where this world could lead.
For all that captivated me about this world, Eneza remained firmly at its heart, with a spunk and determination that spoke to everything she had already endured. As the only human among a people who have never truly valued her, she has spent her life being belittled, underestimated and made to feel lesser simply because of what she is. Yet beneath it all is a resilience that refuses to yield to those who would see her diminished. Watching someone so often dismissed as insignificant gradually become integral to the future of the very people who had failed to see her worth made her growing significance feel like a triumph over everything she had been made to believe about herself.
Eneza’s growth is balanced by a vulnerability that remains integral to who she is. As new truths emerge and her understanding of herself begins to shift, she is forced to grapple with abilities she neither fully understands nor immediately knows how to control. There is uncertainty, frustration and failure along the way, and I loved that her abilities never simply fell into place because the story required them to. Instead, understanding and control are hard won through perseverance, practice and a determination to keep trying, grounding her growing power in something wonderfully human.
The exploration of trust brings a fascinating complexity to her relationships, where loyalty, instinct and appearances are not always what they seem. She is willing to place her faith in others, but never at the expense of her own judgement or sense of self. As she navigates these relationships, perceptions begin to shift and certainties unravel, leaving her to confront consequences she never anticipated.
The sheer depth of Mannella’s world-building became one of the novel’s greatest strengths, with its distinct peoples, layered histories and political tensions creating a realm that feels far larger than Eneza’s story alone. Her journey takes shape within a realm already in motion, its peoples carrying loyalties, prejudices and conflicts that existed long before her path became entwined with theirs. The blight, in particular, casts a threat far beyond any one character, and with its consequences reaching into the next instalment, there is still so much waiting beneath the surface.
And then came those final pages.
I genuinely reached the second-to-last page thinking, “No way. It can’t be…”
Only to realise that somehow, impossibly, it was.
What followed was an extraordinary reveal that seemed to unravel before my eyes, each new piece shifting my understanding of everything that had come before it. That creeping suspicion became disbelief, followed very quickly by the sheer exhilaration of realising just how far the revelation reached. I won’t say another word about what happens because this is absolutely a moment readers deserve to experience for themselves, but to say it floored me would be an understatement.
My mind was blown.
And if the intention was to leave me staring at the final page while desperately wanting the next instalment, consider that mission thoroughly accomplished.
What Grows From Stone marks the arrival of an exciting new voice in fantasy, and a promising beginning to what I hope will be a long and rewarding career for Olive Mannella as an author. With Eneza’s journey far from over and the fate of the realm still hanging in the balance, I suspect some of the most defining moments of her story are still waiting to unfold.
A heartfelt thank you to Olive Mannella for entrusting me with an advance copy of What Grows From Stone. It has been such a privilege to step into this world before its release and to experience the beginning of Eneza’s story. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to read and share my thoughts on Olive’s debut.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about stepping into a fantasy world that feels completely and unmistakably its own. What Grows From Stone draws you into one unlike any I’ve encountered before, shaped by an originality that extends far beyond the fantastical and into the very foundations of its world.
From its civilisations and politics to its magic, landscapes and the creeping threat of the blight, Olive Mannella has created a world that feels imaginative, expansive and beautifully unique. It continually offered something new to discover, and I was completely hooked by the possibilities of where this world could lead.
For all that captivated me about this world, Eneza remained firmly at its heart, with a spunk and determination that spoke to everything she had already endured. As the only human among a people who have never truly valued her, she has spent her life being belittled, underestimated and made to feel lesser simply because of what she is. Yet beneath it all is a resilience that refuses to yield to those who would see her diminished. Watching someone so often dismissed as insignificant gradually become integral to the future of the very people who had failed to see her worth made her growing significance feel like a triumph over everything she had been made to believe about herself.
Eneza’s growth is balanced by a vulnerability that remains integral to who she is. As new truths emerge and her understanding of herself begins to shift, she is forced to grapple with abilities she neither fully understands nor immediately knows how to control. There is uncertainty, frustration and failure along the way, and I loved that her abilities never simply fell into place because the story required them to. Instead, understanding and control are hard won through perseverance, practice and a determination to keep trying, grounding her growing power in something wonderfully human.
The exploration of trust brings a fascinating complexity to her relationships, where loyalty, instinct and appearances are not always what they seem. She is willing to place her faith in others, but never at the expense of her own judgement or sense of self. As she navigates these relationships, perceptions begin to shift and certainties unravel, leaving her to confront consequences she never anticipated.
The sheer depth of Mannella’s world-building became one of the novel’s greatest strengths, with its distinct peoples, layered histories and political tensions creating a realm that feels far larger than Eneza’s story alone. Her journey takes shape within a realm already in motion, its peoples carrying loyalties, prejudices and conflicts that existed long before her path became entwined with theirs. The blight, in particular, casts a threat far beyond any one character, and with its consequences reaching into the next instalment, there is still so much waiting beneath the surface.
And then came those final pages.
I genuinely reached the second-to-last page thinking, “No way. It can’t be…”
Only to realise that somehow, impossibly, it was.
What followed was an extraordinary reveal that seemed to unravel before my eyes, each new piece shifting my understanding of everything that had come before it. That creeping suspicion became disbelief, followed very quickly by the sheer exhilaration of realising just how far the revelation reached. I won’t say another word about what happens because this is absolutely a moment readers deserve to experience for themselves, but to say it floored me would be an understatement.
My mind was blown.
And if the intention was to leave me staring at the final page while desperately wanting the next instalment, consider that mission thoroughly accomplished.
What Grows From Stone marks the arrival of an exciting new voice in fantasy, and a promising beginning to what I hope will be a long and rewarding career for Olive Mannella as an author. With Eneza’s journey far from over and the fate of the realm still hanging in the balance, I suspect some of the most defining moments of her story are still waiting to unfold.
June 1, 2026
First and foremost I want to thank Olive for the opportunity of being an early advanced reader!! I have been a following her writing journey (and family) for a long time and have never been so excited for a book to release! I wanted to take time to really sit with the story after I finished it late last night, to really give it the review it deserves.
Secondly, I want to preface this by letting it be known that this was not my normal go to genre. I usually stick with mystery/thrillers/ true crime stories. But I dove in head first and I am SO glad I did. This story sucked me in from the very beginning, with its eccentric characters, especially the main female character. As a girl who feels things so deeply and also feels like too much at times, this story and character truly resonated with me. Most of the characters are messy, I found myself cheering them on at one point than wanting to punch them the next. And I absolutely loved it. And Axis and Eneza’s banter is by far my favorite. 😆
The emotional rollercoaster this story took me on, I found myself not wanting to go to bed, often staying up wayyy later than I should because I just needed to know what was going to happen next. This story was so well written and thought out, the way the author portrays each character and their own personal inner conflicts, while weaving this beautiful story around them, filled with such powerful emotions and each chapter leaving you on the edge of your seat. The twists and turns and fast paced thrills will have your jaw on the ground.
The centralized theme of love and is it enough? Are who we are as individuals enough? By the time I got to the end, I was beyond blown away. I did NOT see that ending coming!! I don’t know how I’m supposed to go on to read a regular story now. I’ve read alot of books in my lifetime, and I’ve read alot of good books just in the last few months, by some of my favorite authors. But this story? This is BY FAR my favorite read. I truly believe this will be this generations top story. I see it up there With the likes of Hunger Games, Harry Potter, ACOTAR, Fourth Wing etc. It is THAT good.
“Id rather feel everything than be left comatose"
This book had me feeling EVERYTHING. I can not wait for this to release in August. Put it on your list and preorder it NOW.
Congrats Olive on an AMAZING story.
I cannot wait for book two. I’m gonna need you to write faster 🙏🏼
Secondly, I want to preface this by letting it be known that this was not my normal go to genre. I usually stick with mystery/thrillers/ true crime stories. But I dove in head first and I am SO glad I did. This story sucked me in from the very beginning, with its eccentric characters, especially the main female character. As a girl who feels things so deeply and also feels like too much at times, this story and character truly resonated with me. Most of the characters are messy, I found myself cheering them on at one point than wanting to punch them the next. And I absolutely loved it. And Axis and Eneza’s banter is by far my favorite. 😆
The emotional rollercoaster this story took me on, I found myself not wanting to go to bed, often staying up wayyy later than I should because I just needed to know what was going to happen next. This story was so well written and thought out, the way the author portrays each character and their own personal inner conflicts, while weaving this beautiful story around them, filled with such powerful emotions and each chapter leaving you on the edge of your seat. The twists and turns and fast paced thrills will have your jaw on the ground.
The centralized theme of love and is it enough? Are who we are as individuals enough? By the time I got to the end, I was beyond blown away. I did NOT see that ending coming!! I don’t know how I’m supposed to go on to read a regular story now. I’ve read alot of books in my lifetime, and I’ve read alot of good books just in the last few months, by some of my favorite authors. But this story? This is BY FAR my favorite read. I truly believe this will be this generations top story. I see it up there With the likes of Hunger Games, Harry Potter, ACOTAR, Fourth Wing etc. It is THAT good.
“Id rather feel everything than be left comatose"
This book had me feeling EVERYTHING. I can not wait for this to release in August. Put it on your list and preorder it NOW.
Congrats Olive on an AMAZING story.
I cannot wait for book two. I’m gonna need you to write faster 🙏🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2026
Her book is about Eneza, a young woman who feels like she doesn’t belong. She lives among magical beings and discovers that she has special abilities. When a mysterious sickness begins hurting their world, Eneza goes on a dangerous journey with Vio and Axis. Along the way, she learns more about her past, her powers, and who she can trust.
It’s a fantasy story with romance, magic, mystery, and adventure, with a big focus on finding where you belong. 🌿✨. I loved this story! It was amazingly written and very beautifully crafted!! The story. The plot. The unique character names and their powers and abilities. Amazing and the love or hate or finding herself or themselves and their purpose.
Olive and of course her amazing family and their love and support they have for one and another... not a family not to follow!! Their accounts and their social media is hilarious, and loving and just a joy to watch and be part of. I have been following you and your family since COVID and the “dadosaur” adventures and eventually the hurricane tragedy that led to home rebuilt and renovations, then now your book journey!!!!!
Grateful to follow on social media and see you grow upon an amazing author!!!! I am also writing my memoir, 2 half years in writing. Almost complete and push off to editors!!!
We gotta stick together and make it happen!!!
It’s a fantasy story with romance, magic, mystery, and adventure, with a big focus on finding where you belong. 🌿✨. I loved this story! It was amazingly written and very beautifully crafted!! The story. The plot. The unique character names and their powers and abilities. Amazing and the love or hate or finding herself or themselves and their purpose.
Olive and of course her amazing family and their love and support they have for one and another... not a family not to follow!! Their accounts and their social media is hilarious, and loving and just a joy to watch and be part of. I have been following you and your family since COVID and the “dadosaur” adventures and eventually the hurricane tragedy that led to home rebuilt and renovations, then now your book journey!!!!!
Grateful to follow on social media and see you grow upon an amazing author!!!! I am also writing my memoir, 2 half years in writing. Almost complete and push off to editors!!!
We gotta stick together and make it happen!!!
July 24, 2026
What Grows From Stone really got me in my feelings.
At its core, this story follows a female main character who’s constantly made to feel ashamed for feeling too much. She’s told her emotions are a weakness, but as the story unfolds, they become her greatest strength. I found that so refreshing.
In fantasy, we’re used to seeing magic systems built around elemental powers, weapons, or bloodlines. Olive created something that feels incredibly unique by tying Eneza’s magic directly to her emotions—whether she’s happy, angry, fearful, or grieving. Watching her learn to embrace every part of herself, even the messy and uncomfortable emotions, was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The books that stay with me the longest are the ones where the female main character doesn’t run from her flaws or negative emotions. Instead, she learns to accept them and slowly finds confidence in who she is. Olive captured that journey beautifully, and I think it’s something so many readers—especially women—will relate to.
I also really loved the progression between Eneza and Axis. They’re both learning how to let someone in, and because of their pasts, that doesn’t happen overnight. If you’ve ever been told you’re “too much” or learned to hide your feelings, opening yourself up to another person can feel impossible. Their relationship reflects that reality.
There were definitely moments where I wanted to scream, “Can you two just talk?!” But that’s exactly what made their relationship feel so real. They don’t communicate perfectly from the start, and they don’t magically understand each other after one conversation. They stumble, they misunderstand, and they have to learn each other over time. Olive isn’t writing an insta-love romance—she’s writing two imperfect people figuring it out together, and I appreciated that so much.
Olive has a gift for creating characters that frustrate you one moment and have you rooting for them the next. By the end, I was completely invested—not only in Enya’s journey but in every relationship she was building along the way.
And then… that ending.
I genuinely did not see that cliffhanger coming. I had no idea how all of the puzzle pieces were going to fit together, and I loved being completely surprised. It left me desperately wanting book two, and I honestly can’t wait to see where this story goes next.
At its core, this story follows a female main character who’s constantly made to feel ashamed for feeling too much. She’s told her emotions are a weakness, but as the story unfolds, they become her greatest strength. I found that so refreshing.
In fantasy, we’re used to seeing magic systems built around elemental powers, weapons, or bloodlines. Olive created something that feels incredibly unique by tying Eneza’s magic directly to her emotions—whether she’s happy, angry, fearful, or grieving. Watching her learn to embrace every part of herself, even the messy and uncomfortable emotions, was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The books that stay with me the longest are the ones where the female main character doesn’t run from her flaws or negative emotions. Instead, she learns to accept them and slowly finds confidence in who she is. Olive captured that journey beautifully, and I think it’s something so many readers—especially women—will relate to.
I also really loved the progression between Eneza and Axis. They’re both learning how to let someone in, and because of their pasts, that doesn’t happen overnight. If you’ve ever been told you’re “too much” or learned to hide your feelings, opening yourself up to another person can feel impossible. Their relationship reflects that reality.
There were definitely moments where I wanted to scream, “Can you two just talk?!” But that’s exactly what made their relationship feel so real. They don’t communicate perfectly from the start, and they don’t magically understand each other after one conversation. They stumble, they misunderstand, and they have to learn each other over time. Olive isn’t writing an insta-love romance—she’s writing two imperfect people figuring it out together, and I appreciated that so much.
Olive has a gift for creating characters that frustrate you one moment and have you rooting for them the next. By the end, I was completely invested—not only in Enya’s journey but in every relationship she was building along the way.
And then… that ending.
I genuinely did not see that cliffhanger coming. I had no idea how all of the puzzle pieces were going to fit together, and I loved being completely surprised. It left me desperately wanting book two, and I honestly can’t wait to see where this story goes next.
August 13, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I wasn’t sure what to expect after following the authors journey on TikTok, I knew I’d enjoy the concept but I was surprised in a good way!
The world building felt unique and realistic at the same time even though it’s fantasy and I especially felt like I could picture the colony settings so vividly, and the orphicti too.
I was also glad to finally read a realistic teen FMC. Her reactions and thought processes fit her age and we didn’t have any of this “oh I’m 18 but I’ve got to save the world so I’m now an adult”. I found her to be relatable (albeit it petty and woe is me at times) and enjoyed that her growth was a gradual and realistic journey through the plot.
I knew I’d like Axis from the very first mention of him and again I felt his realistic vulnerability through his descriptions although I’d guessed that twist from quite early on it still left me wanting more of the story and needing to know what happened next.
The pacing was steady and the writing was good, a lot was said in a short number of pages and I’m ready for book 2!
The world building felt unique and realistic at the same time even though it’s fantasy and I especially felt like I could picture the colony settings so vividly, and the orphicti too.
I was also glad to finally read a realistic teen FMC. Her reactions and thought processes fit her age and we didn’t have any of this “oh I’m 18 but I’ve got to save the world so I’m now an adult”. I found her to be relatable (albeit it petty and woe is me at times) and enjoyed that her growth was a gradual and realistic journey through the plot.
I knew I’d like Axis from the very first mention of him and again I felt his realistic vulnerability through his descriptions although I’d guessed that twist from quite early on it still left me wanting more of the story and needing to know what happened next.
The pacing was steady and the writing was good, a lot was said in a short number of pages and I’m ready for book 2!
August 12, 2026
“My memories - who I was, who I thought I should be - were void, making room so I could finally be who I was meant to be.”
A million words couldn’t describe how incredibly beautiful Olive’s debut novel is! I could feel, within every sentence, how much she poured into this story! The story will draw you in from the first word and keep you hooked until the last! This romantasy follows the story of Eneza, who embarks on a journey to find herself, learn about the power within her and discover more about her mother! Along the way, she encounters many individuals, some who become her friends, some who she struggles to trust and one who she falls in love with! The magical world and the mystical Orphicti that surround her, are in and of themselves, amazing! I absolutely fell in love with this book and I can’t wait for the next one!
A million words couldn’t describe how incredibly beautiful Olive’s debut novel is! I could feel, within every sentence, how much she poured into this story! The story will draw you in from the first word and keep you hooked until the last! This romantasy follows the story of Eneza, who embarks on a journey to find herself, learn about the power within her and discover more about her mother! Along the way, she encounters many individuals, some who become her friends, some who she struggles to trust and one who she falls in love with! The magical world and the mystical Orphicti that surround her, are in and of themselves, amazing! I absolutely fell in love with this book and I can’t wait for the next one!
May 25, 2026
What an incredible debut novel!! I was so lucky to be an ARC reader and I fear I will not shut up about this book until it’s released!
The name of this book alone gave me chills. The concept of versatility and surviving through hard times resonates strongly throughout the story.
The representation in this book was refreshing. WLW relationship🥰. The Orphicti were so interesting to me, I even dreamt about them the first night I read lol. The discussion of mental health struggles is not always an easy topic to brush on, but Olive wrote it so well.
I have so many questions, and not in a bad way! What Grows From Stone has me wanting more of Eneza’s story/backstory and exploration of the map! And also.. to find out wtf is up with axis and how will these two reunite!?
P.S. You are never too much 🫶🏽
The name of this book alone gave me chills. The concept of versatility and surviving through hard times resonates strongly throughout the story.
The representation in this book was refreshing. WLW relationship🥰. The Orphicti were so interesting to me, I even dreamt about them the first night I read lol. The discussion of mental health struggles is not always an easy topic to brush on, but Olive wrote it so well.
I have so many questions, and not in a bad way! What Grows From Stone has me wanting more of Eneza’s story/backstory and exploration of the map! And also.. to find out wtf is up with axis and how will these two reunite!?
P.S. You are never too much 🫶🏽
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2026
There will be NO spoilers in this post!!! I hate when books are spoiled for me so I don’t want to do that for someone else!!
This book was so awesome. From the moment I started it, I was drawn in. One of my favorite things about reading is being able to see the setting in my head. Olive does an amazing job with the setting because I saw everything as if I was reading and seeing a movie at the same time.
My second favorite thing is when I feel like I know the characters and I’m rooting for them. I was rooting for the main character from the very first chapter. You felt what this character felt and I loved that.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and I hope that everyone that reads it, loves it as much as I did!!
This book was so awesome. From the moment I started it, I was drawn in. One of my favorite things about reading is being able to see the setting in my head. Olive does an amazing job with the setting because I saw everything as if I was reading and seeing a movie at the same time.
My second favorite thing is when I feel like I know the characters and I’m rooting for them. I was rooting for the main character from the very first chapter. You felt what this character felt and I loved that.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book and I hope that everyone that reads it, loves it as much as I did!!
June 2, 2026
I had such a great time reading What Grows From Stone! It is a fantastic fantasy novel that was easy to read with many twists that kept me on my toes. The ending made me so excited for the next one! It’s refreshing to read about a female main character who is relatable in ways like Eneza, very up and down with emotions and feeling things deeply. Olive crushed it on her debut novel, and I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in her writing career!!
August 20, 2026
This book was absolutely amazing I could not put it down! The world and characters that lived within this book were so vivid and also felt very real as I was reading. The emotions that were written in the book I also felt within me. The author has such a profound way of making the readers feel like part of the story! I highly recommend reading this book but be prepared to not be able to put it down!
August 23, 2026
Best book since The Great Gatsby. I may be a little biased, as I’m her dad(osaur). 🦖. But it’s a great story and the characters are complicated and real. You’ll enjoy reading this novel. And it’s just the beginning for Olive. Much like the main character Eneza, Olive is an emotional girl, who often felt she was “too much” for people in her life. The beauty in life is often found in the imperfections, and the process of discovery.
August 23, 2026
I wasn’t sure I was going to like it when I first got started, but it was very easy to follow & not super complicated. I love that there’s not a huge back story to understand right away it just dives in! Once I started I couldn’t stop! And then at the end….UGHHH I hope she’s writing another! Very well done!
May 22, 2026
This book is amazing! The world building, character development is fantastic. The banter had me giggling out loud, the twist and turns had me screaming out loud. The pace and story development had me tearing through the pages. I can’t wait for the next book! Highly recommend!
May 24, 2026
WOW WOW WOW!!!!!!!!
I am giving this book 5⭐️ for creativity, writing, characters, plot, the twist and turns! This was so good the ending really got me I was not excepting it! Wow 10/10 you need to read when it come out! Thank you Olive for allowing me to be an arc reader!!!
I am giving this book 5⭐️ for creativity, writing, characters, plot, the twist and turns! This was so good the ending really got me I was not excepting it! Wow 10/10 you need to read when it come out! Thank you Olive for allowing me to be an arc reader!!!
May 25, 2026
Olive!! Thank you for the ARC of your lovely debut novel!! I've always admired your creative mind and it was a treasure to experience it through What Grows From Stone! I was on the edge of my seat throughout the entire book and cannot wait to see where the series goes!!
May 26, 2026
I was an ARC reader for this author.
I don’t have enough compliments for this book! Olive Mannella did such an amazing job of bringing you into her world and not letting you go until you were finished! Each chapter left you wanting more every time and I flew through this book! Can’t wait to see what else Olive has in store for us!
I don’t have enough compliments for this book! Olive Mannella did such an amazing job of bringing you into her world and not letting you go until you were finished! Each chapter left you wanting more every time and I flew through this book! Can’t wait to see what else Olive has in store for us!
August 15, 2026
I am NOT a reader. I don’t think I have finished a book in yearssss. And if I do read I usually like non-fiction / applicable self help books. But I told Olive I would give it a shot and read it, bc what’s the worst case scenario??
It ended up being SO FREAKING GOOD!!! Every time I picked it up I never wanted to stop reading it. It is extremely well written and such good storyline!! I 100/10 recommend it and CANT WAIT for the second book to come out!
It ended up being SO FREAKING GOOD!!! Every time I picked it up I never wanted to stop reading it. It is extremely well written and such good storyline!! I 100/10 recommend it and CANT WAIT for the second book to come out!
August 18, 2026
This debut novel was PERFECTION! Anyone that loves Romantasy needs to pick up this book RIGHT NOW! OMG I fell in love with the characters and I can not wait to see where Book #2 takes them!!!
August 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️READ THIS BOOK IM BEGGING YOU!!! This book is absolutely amazing. The world building, the storyline, and the characters...it was everything and more. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and I can’t wait for her next book.
August 25, 2026
whoa that ending i can’t believe my sister wrote this
Read
June 16, 2026If I could give this 10 stars I would, or even a million!!! I love that Eneza is so easy to relate to! I was hooked pretty quick. There was no warning I would need a seat belt for the amazing journey this book took me on! From the strength she showed, to highlighting mental struggles, to twists and turns you do not see coming. If you want a book that hooks you like Fourth Wing but possibly better. One that emotionally wrecks you in all the right ways....then this 100% is the book for you! Ive already got my tattoo idea going for this soon to be series hehe.
August 23, 2026
So good! I need the next one yesterday! Olive, this was everything I had hoped it would be!
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