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The Ravenstone #1
The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain
Imagine a raven appearing out of thin air and guiding you to an exquisitely carved icon that glows with ancient light and pulses with shamanic power. This is how the adventure begins for Nadia and Aidan Shaw, thirteen-year-old twins, who live in idyllic Cold Spring, New York, on the banks of the Hudson River. Armed with the power of the Ravenstone and their own special gifts, they plunge back to the fifth century, where they encounter Native Americans, ancient Celts, warring princes and a shape-shifting raven. Determined to retrieve a now-extinct healing plant, they must depend on their courage, their faith in their friends, and luck... or is it destiny?
If they succeed, what they bring back could change the course of human existence.
"Solomon and Carey's imaginative storytelling sweeps you into a fascinating tale of mystery and adventure. Young
twins stumble upon an ancient power that could help their family in the future, or trap them in the past forever."
Linda Zimmermann, successful author of 30 books about the paranormal and mysterious stone sites.
Website: www.EloquentRascals.com
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Diane Solomon enjoyed a wonderfully diverse career path that included her own variety show on BBC TV in England and major tours with Glen Campbell and Kenny Rogers. Her highly successful singing career has given way to her lifelong dream of being a writer.
This is the first novel written with her husband, Mark Carey, a retired biologist, naturalist, and accomplished voice-over artist.
They live in New Hampshire, on 55 acres of woods and streams, where they spend many hours designing gardens and meadows, and watching wildlife.
If they succeed, what they bring back could change the course of human existence.
"Solomon and Carey's imaginative storytelling sweeps you into a fascinating tale of mystery and adventure. Young
twins stumble upon an ancient power that could help their family in the future, or trap them in the past forever."
Linda Zimmermann, successful author of 30 books about the paranormal and mysterious stone sites.
Website: www.EloquentRascals.com
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Diane Solomon enjoyed a wonderfully diverse career path that included her own variety show on BBC TV in England and major tours with Glen Campbell and Kenny Rogers. Her highly successful singing career has given way to her lifelong dream of being a writer.
This is the first novel written with her husband, Mark Carey, a retired biologist, naturalist, and accomplished voice-over artist.
They live in New Hampshire, on 55 acres of woods and streams, where they spend many hours designing gardens and meadows, and watching wildlife.
222 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2016
8 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Diane Solomon
7 books49 followersI am an author, writer, homeopath, nutritionist, gardener and nature lover. I began my career with my own variety series on BBC as a singer. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome put an end to that world-traveling life as an entertainer, and I studied nutrition and homeopathy.
I recently changed my focus to be able to write full-time, and have published six books.
My new women's fiction novel, "Eva" was launched in the summer of 2023 and won the Reviewer's Award from Feathered Quill Book Awards for 2024! I call it a love story with a supernatural twist. Here is a little more about it.:
Eva possesses a unique and powerful gift. But is it a curse?
She plays down her beauty, to avoid attention. But it doesn’t work. She has a magnetic quality, a calm, a power of which she is unaware. She longs to be left alone to look after her first love, animals.
But another love is on the horizon, along with life-changing discoveries. When the media jackals gather, Eva is forced into the limelight she’s avoided all her life.
And someone wants her dead.
* * * * * * * *
Best Selling Author Review:
“I was captivated by Eva’s story and riveted to the end. Diane is a beautiful writer who has captured the essence of Eva’s unearthing of her true self. A story that is timeless.
Bravo!” Laurie Seymour, M.A., twice a #1 international best-selling author, host of Wisdom Talk Radio, Executive Coach,
international speaker and Founder/CEO of The Baca Institute.
https://www.eloquentrascals.com/eva-a...
I recently changed my focus to be able to write full-time, and have published six books.
My new women's fiction novel, "Eva" was launched in the summer of 2023 and won the Reviewer's Award from Feathered Quill Book Awards for 2024! I call it a love story with a supernatural twist. Here is a little more about it.:
Eva possesses a unique and powerful gift. But is it a curse?
She plays down her beauty, to avoid attention. But it doesn’t work. She has a magnetic quality, a calm, a power of which she is unaware. She longs to be left alone to look after her first love, animals.
But another love is on the horizon, along with life-changing discoveries. When the media jackals gather, Eva is forced into the limelight she’s avoided all her life.
And someone wants her dead.
* * * * * * * *
Best Selling Author Review:
“I was captivated by Eva’s story and riveted to the end. Diane is a beautiful writer who has captured the essence of Eva’s unearthing of her true self. A story that is timeless.
Bravo!” Laurie Seymour, M.A., twice a #1 international best-selling author, host of Wisdom Talk Radio, Executive Coach,
international speaker and Founder/CEO of The Baca Institute.
https://www.eloquentrascals.com/eva-a...
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 3, 2016
Was it fate, destiny or their own special senses that put twins Aidan and Nadia on a path that will lead them across time in a quest to save both their father’s visionary scientific work and the very future of mankind? It all started in the attic of the old home they lived in. A mirror, ancient and dusty suddenly comes to life when a wizard and his raven appear to show them a hidden artifact that will lead them on a magical adventure filled with mystery, challenges and the search for one special plant that will open doors for both their scientist father and the world at large.
Follow a tale of two young children who place family and honor before the usual concerns of contemporary tweens more concerned with the latest electronic gadgets and spoon-fed tales filled with violence that leave their imaginations starving for sustenance. High adventure, hidden secrets in the past and experiences that one can only dream about take Aidan and Nadia into the world of the past that will reveal more about their present lives than they ever could have imagined. Are their special gifts a twin thing? What of the other twins in their family? Do they know of the secrets of the mirror? Notice anything about these siblings’ names?
Diane Solomon and mark Carey have created an atmosphere where one’s imagination can run free as two delightful characters are given the opportunity to help make a mark on the history of mankind. The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain is perfect for family reading, reading alone and definite will hold the interest of even the most reluctant of young readers! What more can one ask for? Age appropriate, believable dialogue and a keen sense of adventure into the unknown in an atmosphere free of gore that is simply magical!
I received this copy via Diane Solomon and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Eloquent Rascals Publishing (September 26, 2016)
Publication Date: September 26, 2016
Genre: Middlegrade Fantasy
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Follow a tale of two young children who place family and honor before the usual concerns of contemporary tweens more concerned with the latest electronic gadgets and spoon-fed tales filled with violence that leave their imaginations starving for sustenance. High adventure, hidden secrets in the past and experiences that one can only dream about take Aidan and Nadia into the world of the past that will reveal more about their present lives than they ever could have imagined. Are their special gifts a twin thing? What of the other twins in their family? Do they know of the secrets of the mirror? Notice anything about these siblings’ names?
Diane Solomon and mark Carey have created an atmosphere where one’s imagination can run free as two delightful characters are given the opportunity to help make a mark on the history of mankind. The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain is perfect for family reading, reading alone and definite will hold the interest of even the most reluctant of young readers! What more can one ask for? Age appropriate, believable dialogue and a keen sense of adventure into the unknown in an atmosphere free of gore that is simply magical!
I received this copy via Diane Solomon and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Eloquent Rascals Publishing (September 26, 2016)
Publication Date: September 26, 2016
Genre: Middlegrade Fantasy
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
December 3, 2020
Time traveling twins on an imaginative journey is hands-down awesome. The twins -- Nadia and Aiden -- are lively, relatable, and adventurous. Their suspenseful travels are action-packed, and the story effortlessly carries the reader along on this journey. While The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain is a bit long for a children's book, the pace is one that makes it a page-turner, and time flies when reading. Parents and children will love this fantastical fantasy book. Highly recommended! I will definitely pick up The Ravenstone Part 2: The Twain.
November 19, 2023
Great story with a revealing end
*Spoiler Alert*
This story is going to appeal to young kids. It is driven forward with a creative plotline. Aiden and Nadia are twins.who come across a magical stone, Ravenstone. It helps them time travel.
But , like anything else, this discovery comes with responsibility and drawbacks. They get into many secrets the stone holds, all the lives it touched. This stone's magical power comes alive by twins only. Many were left impacted by using it to time travel in the past changing their lives. With the help of a shaman, Patrick these two help resolve and bring closure to them.
*Spoiler Alert*
This story is going to appeal to young kids. It is driven forward with a creative plotline. Aiden and Nadia are twins.who come across a magical stone, Ravenstone. It helps them time travel.
But , like anything else, this discovery comes with responsibility and drawbacks. They get into many secrets the stone holds, all the lives it touched. This stone's magical power comes alive by twins only. Many were left impacted by using it to time travel in the past changing their lives. With the help of a shaman, Patrick these two help resolve and bring closure to them.
November 3, 2016
Was it fate, destiny or their own special senses that put twins Aidan and Nadia on a path that will lead them across time in a quest to save both their father’s visionary scientific work and the very future of mankind? It all started in the attic of the old home they lived in. A mirror, ancient and dusty suddenly comes to life when a wizard and his raven appear to show them a hidden artifact that will lead them on a magical adventure filled with mystery, challenges and the search for one special plant that will open doors for both their scientist father and the world at large.
Follow a tale of two young children who place family and honor before the usual concerns of contemporary tweens more concerned with the latest electronic gadgets and spoon-fed tales filled with violence that leave their imaginations starving for sustenance. High adventure, hidden secrets in the past and experiences that one can only dream about take Aidan and Nadia into the world of the past that will reveal more about their present lives than they ever could have imagined. Are their special gifts a twin thing? What of the other twins in their family? Do they know of the secrets of the mirror? Notice anything about these siblings’ names?
Diane Solomon and mark Carey have created an atmosphere where one’s imagination can run free as two delightful characters are given the opportunity to help make a mark on the history of mankind. The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain is perfect for family reading, reading alone and definite will hold the interest of even the most reluctant of young readers! What more can one ask for? Age appropriate, believable dialogue and a keen sense of adventure into the unknown in an atmosphere free of gore that is simply magical!
I received this copy via Diane Solomon and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Eloquent Rascals Publishing (September 26, 2016)
Publication Date: September 26, 2016
Genre: Middlegrade Fantasy
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Follow a tale of two young children who place family and honor before the usual concerns of contemporary tweens more concerned with the latest electronic gadgets and spoon-fed tales filled with violence that leave their imaginations starving for sustenance. High adventure, hidden secrets in the past and experiences that one can only dream about take Aidan and Nadia into the world of the past that will reveal more about their present lives than they ever could have imagined. Are their special gifts a twin thing? What of the other twins in their family? Do they know of the secrets of the mirror? Notice anything about these siblings’ names?
Diane Solomon and mark Carey have created an atmosphere where one’s imagination can run free as two delightful characters are given the opportunity to help make a mark on the history of mankind. The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain is perfect for family reading, reading alone and definite will hold the interest of even the most reluctant of young readers! What more can one ask for? Age appropriate, believable dialogue and a keen sense of adventure into the unknown in an atmosphere free of gore that is simply magical!
I received this copy via Diane Solomon and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Eloquent Rascals Publishing (September 26, 2016)
Publication Date: September 26, 2016
Genre: Middlegrade Fantasy
Print Length: 222 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 6, 2017
What an adventurous book and enthralling story this is! I love reading about the 13-year-old twins Nadia and Aidan who live in Cold Spring, New York. They stumble upon a mysterious dark stone, hidden underneath a mirror in the attic. There is something magical about the mirror that only the twins can see. There is an old wizard in the mirror who beckons them. With him is a black raven. When the wizard disappears a single black feather is lying on the floor. How is that possible? Follow me and find out!
Nadia and Aidan have that special bond only twins experience. Nadia just loves the almost two centuries old parental home where they live and where her grandmother Catherine grew up. Did you know that Catherine also had a twin? She and her twin sister Liz were inseparable until the day Catherine died of a mysterious disease. That was a very sad day for the family. After some time, their grandfather and Liz fell in love and married. No wonder the twins call Liz aunty-gran! It is because of there not having been a cure for his mother's illness that the twins' father Michael dedicates his life to the 'Project': research into finding a medicine to cure the disease.
The twins don't know this yet but Michael is facing a tremendously serious decision: the 'Project' is about to be closed down as there are no more research funds to pay for it. Michael is devastated because this is what he always wanted to do and he does not want to give up. But it looks like he is not given a choice. Aidan and Nadia are shocked because it means they would have to move! Leaving their family home, that for Nadia represents "all of her connection to the past, present and future, her memories, her life and love"?! If only Nadia and Aidan could find a way to discover the cure they would not have to move. It is a coincidence that when Aidan and Nadia are in the attic, something unexpected happens?
Nadia hears a sound, turns around to find the source and that is when she spots it: the old dusty mirror is coming alive! There is an image of a wizard with a brown robe, a wooden staff and a black raven on his shoulder. How it is possible that he can move inside the mirror? And what is the meaning of the black raven? The twins are in awe as the old wizard seems to beckon them - tries to send a message. Is he dangerous? Should they be terrified of what obviously are mysterious powers moving in their direction? Aidan, the logical thinker, tries to find an explanation that makes sense but fails to come up with one. The wizard leaves a cryptic message behind that Aidan and Nadia are eager to solve.
Are you able to see what is written there? With a little help from aunty-gran Liz Aidan and Nadia figure it out. I will not disclose what it says nor where Aidan and Naida are looking, but I can tell you what they find: a beautifully carved black stone with magical powers. If twins hold this Ravenstone at the same time, they can feel a surge of energy going through them, empowering them and making them stronger and more susceptible to their surroundings. But there is more .. Aidan and Nadia realise they are time travelling as they notice they are looking at themselves, sitting at the kitchen table in their home! What a frightening and also exciting thought - being able to go back to the past or move forward to the future.
Now they have proved worthy of the wizard's real goal: he is sending them on a highly important secret mission which, if accomplished successfully, could change human lives forever. There is only one way to perform the mission: going back centuries in time. It is a dangerous mission that lies before Aidan and Nadia and they have to find the courage to fulfil the task before them. They have to follow the black raven on an ominous journey back in time. If they fail they will never be able to go back to their own time. If they succeed - who knows how many lives will be saved. There is one more thing: they must not, under any condition, alter the course of history for fear of changing our world today.
Wow, what a fascinating story and adventurous journey Aidan and Nadia have to follow! Can you imagine stumbling upon an old mirror in the attic and then watching it come to life? Finding a wizard in it with a black raven on his shoulder - how creepy is that? Then he beckons you. Do you follow? Or do you run away screaming? it takes a lot of courage to do what Aidan and Nadia must do - but they are determined to do it anyway! I loved reading this adventurous and magical tale about the twins and their powers. Here is one book you won't be putting down easily, whether you are an adult (young at heart) or a teen: you have to read on to discover the world of centuries ago and our predecessors.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey have woven an extraordinary story around the twins and the mirror-theme. The novel is written for middle-grade readers and I'm sure they will love it as it has got the detail, the language befitting the age group, as well as the adventure, the magical and the mystery waiting to be solved. Sometimes it gets a bit scary and dangerous which aspects add perfectly to what explorative middle-graders would love to read about in my opinion. I loved reading it! To be recommended for everyone of whatever age, who enjoys an adventurous fantasy novel!
The review is posted on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/the-ra...
Nadia and Aidan have that special bond only twins experience. Nadia just loves the almost two centuries old parental home where they live and where her grandmother Catherine grew up. Did you know that Catherine also had a twin? She and her twin sister Liz were inseparable until the day Catherine died of a mysterious disease. That was a very sad day for the family. After some time, their grandfather and Liz fell in love and married. No wonder the twins call Liz aunty-gran! It is because of there not having been a cure for his mother's illness that the twins' father Michael dedicates his life to the 'Project': research into finding a medicine to cure the disease.
The twins don't know this yet but Michael is facing a tremendously serious decision: the 'Project' is about to be closed down as there are no more research funds to pay for it. Michael is devastated because this is what he always wanted to do and he does not want to give up. But it looks like he is not given a choice. Aidan and Nadia are shocked because it means they would have to move! Leaving their family home, that for Nadia represents "all of her connection to the past, present and future, her memories, her life and love"?! If only Nadia and Aidan could find a way to discover the cure they would not have to move. It is a coincidence that when Aidan and Nadia are in the attic, something unexpected happens?
Nadia hears a sound, turns around to find the source and that is when she spots it: the old dusty mirror is coming alive! There is an image of a wizard with a brown robe, a wooden staff and a black raven on his shoulder. How it is possible that he can move inside the mirror? And what is the meaning of the black raven? The twins are in awe as the old wizard seems to beckon them - tries to send a message. Is he dangerous? Should they be terrified of what obviously are mysterious powers moving in their direction? Aidan, the logical thinker, tries to find an explanation that makes sense but fails to come up with one. The wizard leaves a cryptic message behind that Aidan and Nadia are eager to solve.
Are you able to see what is written there? With a little help from aunty-gran Liz Aidan and Nadia figure it out. I will not disclose what it says nor where Aidan and Naida are looking, but I can tell you what they find: a beautifully carved black stone with magical powers. If twins hold this Ravenstone at the same time, they can feel a surge of energy going through them, empowering them and making them stronger and more susceptible to their surroundings. But there is more .. Aidan and Nadia realise they are time travelling as they notice they are looking at themselves, sitting at the kitchen table in their home! What a frightening and also exciting thought - being able to go back to the past or move forward to the future.
Now they have proved worthy of the wizard's real goal: he is sending them on a highly important secret mission which, if accomplished successfully, could change human lives forever. There is only one way to perform the mission: going back centuries in time. It is a dangerous mission that lies before Aidan and Nadia and they have to find the courage to fulfil the task before them. They have to follow the black raven on an ominous journey back in time. If they fail they will never be able to go back to their own time. If they succeed - who knows how many lives will be saved. There is one more thing: they must not, under any condition, alter the course of history for fear of changing our world today.
Wow, what a fascinating story and adventurous journey Aidan and Nadia have to follow! Can you imagine stumbling upon an old mirror in the attic and then watching it come to life? Finding a wizard in it with a black raven on his shoulder - how creepy is that? Then he beckons you. Do you follow? Or do you run away screaming? it takes a lot of courage to do what Aidan and Nadia must do - but they are determined to do it anyway! I loved reading this adventurous and magical tale about the twins and their powers. Here is one book you won't be putting down easily, whether you are an adult (young at heart) or a teen: you have to read on to discover the world of centuries ago and our predecessors.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey have woven an extraordinary story around the twins and the mirror-theme. The novel is written for middle-grade readers and I'm sure they will love it as it has got the detail, the language befitting the age group, as well as the adventure, the magical and the mystery waiting to be solved. Sometimes it gets a bit scary and dangerous which aspects add perfectly to what explorative middle-graders would love to read about in my opinion. I loved reading it! To be recommended for everyone of whatever age, who enjoys an adventurous fantasy novel!
The review is posted on my website: https://www.bitsaboutbooks.net/the-ra...
September 5, 2020
As the author of several middle-grade novels, I can highly recommend both books of the Ravenstone series. I loved the combination of magic and time-travel. The characters, Aidan and Nadia were very likeable. Both books were full of adventure and moved quickly. Great job, authors!
September 27, 2016
I loved it!! I loved the dynamic between the kids, I loved the adventure, I loved the family setting, I loved the adventure the kids took with the native American village! I loved that a plant was the one to come to the rescue!! And of course, living in New Hampshire, I loved the NH Stonehenge reference.
There was just so much to love about this book - it certainly has wings and I hope it takes off and flies! It's just fantastic, well worth reading and I know my grandchildren are going to love it. This is really a worthwhile, entertaining, and educational book!
February 6, 2017
There is something very special about twins, a bond that often makes them life long friends, well Aidan and Nadia are definitely like that, in fact you could say they are like peas in the pod or the two sides of a coin, different but you don’t get one without the other. Now the house where they live has been in the family for years, and just keeps accumulating more and more junk in the attic, so mum asks them to sort it all out. This is the beginning of an adventure that will change not just their world but everyone else’s too…………. but only if they are successful.
What a tremendous adventure this is for Aidan and Nadia as they become time travellers with a massive responsibility not to change historical events that will affect the future in a negative way. But they have been given a mission to carry out from an old Shaman that asks for their help, with a small task at first that they must complete to prove they are then worthy to help him. The two of them already have very special abilities which will help them hugely in the past. A truly gripping and exciting adventure for the two youngsters.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey have made a formidable team creating a very original story line that links together very well. The use of a mirror and twins is very clever but also do check out the twins names and see if you can find anything unusual about them. It is this attention, the going that extra mile, that makes this book very special. The detail of what life would be like in the past is super, with writing that is very appropriate for middle grade readers. There are times in the book that will give an adrenaline rush but won’t leave the young readers frightened. This book really gave me goose bumps which I have got again just writing about it. An awesome read!
What a tremendous adventure this is for Aidan and Nadia as they become time travellers with a massive responsibility not to change historical events that will affect the future in a negative way. But they have been given a mission to carry out from an old Shaman that asks for their help, with a small task at first that they must complete to prove they are then worthy to help him. The two of them already have very special abilities which will help them hugely in the past. A truly gripping and exciting adventure for the two youngsters.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey have made a formidable team creating a very original story line that links together very well. The use of a mirror and twins is very clever but also do check out the twins names and see if you can find anything unusual about them. It is this attention, the going that extra mile, that makes this book very special. The detail of what life would be like in the past is super, with writing that is very appropriate for middle grade readers. There are times in the book that will give an adrenaline rush but won’t leave the young readers frightened. This book really gave me goose bumps which I have got again just writing about it. An awesome read!
September 28, 2016
I was so moved as I finished reading this book! Such a work of love and wisdom. I can imagine the two authors having an incredible time bringing this book and the characters to life.
I loved it. Hated to put it down and didn’t want it to end. I loved the main characters—both of them. They were fully fleshed out and worthy of caring. I hope you are planning on a sequel! I most definitely want another adventure. I also learned new things about the area where the story takes place. That was an added pleasure.
I loved it. Hated to put it down and didn’t want it to end. I loved the main characters—both of them. They were fully fleshed out and worthy of caring. I hope you are planning on a sequel! I most definitely want another adventure. I also learned new things about the area where the story takes place. That was an added pleasure.
Read
August 31, 2020The Ravenstone is the first of a two-book set of fantasy stories by Diane Solomon and Mark Carey.
About the Book
Aidan and Nadia, thirteen year old twins, find a mysterious mirror while they are supposed to be cleaning out the attic. When the image of an old shaman appears and attempts to communicate with them, they are stunned. Then they find the Ravenstone, and this is the beginning of their adventure to a time and land of Celtic princes and a shapeshifting raven.
My Review
This is a delightful story about twins living in a wonderful home with loving parents. They have a quirky grandmother living nearby as well, and their family history is fascinating and holds a bit of mystery of its own.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey did an excellent job of creating characters that pull the reader into the story right from the start. Their personal lives and their travel adventures keep the reader turning page after page. The story is very well written and well edited as there are no errors to cause a reader to stumble out of the story even for a moment.
As Nadia and Aidan travel back and forth in time, the reader is often kept on the edge of their seat wondering things like: will they get back to their own home and time; will they be captured; will they find what they are looking for.
The story is clean and acceptable for middle grade and up, and would even make a great family read aloud. It would also be a great gift for your avid reader.
If you like stories with mystery, adventure, and time travel, you'll enjoy The Ravenstone.
I give this book 5 stars.
As a book reviewer, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
About the Book
Aidan and Nadia, thirteen year old twins, find a mysterious mirror while they are supposed to be cleaning out the attic. When the image of an old shaman appears and attempts to communicate with them, they are stunned. Then they find the Ravenstone, and this is the beginning of their adventure to a time and land of Celtic princes and a shapeshifting raven.
My Review
This is a delightful story about twins living in a wonderful home with loving parents. They have a quirky grandmother living nearby as well, and their family history is fascinating and holds a bit of mystery of its own.
Diane Solomon and Mark Carey did an excellent job of creating characters that pull the reader into the story right from the start. Their personal lives and their travel adventures keep the reader turning page after page. The story is very well written and well edited as there are no errors to cause a reader to stumble out of the story even for a moment.
As Nadia and Aidan travel back and forth in time, the reader is often kept on the edge of their seat wondering things like: will they get back to their own home and time; will they be captured; will they find what they are looking for.
The story is clean and acceptable for middle grade and up, and would even make a great family read aloud. It would also be a great gift for your avid reader.
If you like stories with mystery, adventure, and time travel, you'll enjoy The Ravenstone.
I give this book 5 stars.
As a book reviewer, I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
September 19, 2020
As a former middle school English teacher who taught reading for more than thirty years, this is practically a perfect book for its target audience. The main characters, a boy/girl twin pair, are well-developed and easy to relate to and root for. And their adventures are perfectly-paced, complex, and intriguing. The time travelling and the good vs. evil themes remind me of the book The Dark is Rising by Susan Cooper. It will remind young readers who cite that as their favorite book of it also. I look forward to more of these time-travelling-twins adventures in the future. A book I highly recommend... and not just to young readers.
March 30, 2020
Thank you Netgalley and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book pulls you in from the beginning but, sadly, it slows down and the narrative meanders.
I think it would have benefited from being a little shorter, specially considering it is aimed at middle-grade readers, who I believe would get bored before reaching 30%. Fortunately, it picks up the pace around 80%, which leads to a pretty good ending.
This book pulls you in from the beginning but, sadly, it slows down and the narrative meanders.
I think it would have benefited from being a little shorter, specially considering it is aimed at middle-grade readers, who I believe would get bored before reaching 30%. Fortunately, it picks up the pace around 80%, which leads to a pretty good ending.
October 4, 2020
A pretty great start for this series.
I love seeing characters develope through the course of every series I get into. I'm excited to see where book 2 will take me as I'm about to begin it.
I love seeing characters develope through the course of every series I get into. I'm excited to see where book 2 will take me as I'm about to begin it.
February 9, 2017
Love this read and the time travel was one of my favorite things about it.
Full review to follow.
Full review to follow.
October 15, 2020
Adventure packed!
This journey of time traveling twins was a refreshing read. Packed with adventure, this was a very imaginative book and will be perfect for my son!
This journey of time traveling twins was a refreshing read. Packed with adventure, this was a very imaginative book and will be perfect for my son!
June 27, 2019
Full review now up on the blog: https://www.thewritinggreyhound.co.uk...
The Ravenstone is a fun-filled, action-packed, fantastical children's book.
The story focuses on a pair of twins - Nadia and Aidan - who discover a mysterious object hidden away in their attic. What follows is a whirlwind tale of adventure, spanning thousands of years and countless generations of their family.
This book is a brilliant children's story, featuring all the elements you would expect from a story of this type. Kids are sure to love the fast pace, the suspense, and the fantasy storytelling, yet The Ravenstone is also a well-written and beautifully-crafted book. It's clear that the authors really have a gift for storytelling!
Another point I particularly liked about the book is the fact that the world building is so strong. Featuring real-world locations, it's obvious that a lot of research must have gone into this book. The end result is a world that is fully fleshed out and described perfectly, allowing readers young and old alike to picture it in their mind's eye.
My one flaw with The Ravenstone is the fact that at times the pacing felt a little off. Important events seemed to be rather rushed, while extra time was taken with other things that had no direct relevance to the plot. However, this certainly didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the book - it simply meant a four-star instead of five-star rating.
The Ravenstone would make a brilliant addition to any child's bookcase and is the perfect book to spark creativity in young minds.
The Ravenstone is a fun-filled, action-packed, fantastical children's book.
The story focuses on a pair of twins - Nadia and Aidan - who discover a mysterious object hidden away in their attic. What follows is a whirlwind tale of adventure, spanning thousands of years and countless generations of their family.
This book is a brilliant children's story, featuring all the elements you would expect from a story of this type. Kids are sure to love the fast pace, the suspense, and the fantasy storytelling, yet The Ravenstone is also a well-written and beautifully-crafted book. It's clear that the authors really have a gift for storytelling!
Another point I particularly liked about the book is the fact that the world building is so strong. Featuring real-world locations, it's obvious that a lot of research must have gone into this book. The end result is a world that is fully fleshed out and described perfectly, allowing readers young and old alike to picture it in their mind's eye.
My one flaw with The Ravenstone is the fact that at times the pacing felt a little off. Important events seemed to be rather rushed, while extra time was taken with other things that had no direct relevance to the plot. However, this certainly didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the book - it simply meant a four-star instead of five-star rating.
The Ravenstone would make a brilliant addition to any child's bookcase and is the perfect book to spark creativity in young minds.
December 19, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to review. However, the following review is my honest opinion. (For more reviews like this, check out my blog: https://quillsandroses.wordpress.com)
You know how attics are full of junk but while cleaning them out, you always find a treasure or two? Weeelll, Aidan and Nadia’s attic is a little different. Just a bit. While cleaning their attic out, the twins (Yes, they are twins whose names are mirror images. Smart, right?) discover an ancient mirror. On its own, it’s innocent enough, but when an old guy manifests in the mirror and starts writing messages out at them, they get a little freaked. But also curious.
As any wise 13-year-olds know to do, Aidan and Nadia ask their grandmother when they can’t figure out what the old guy is trying to tell them. It turns out he’s writing in old Irish and telling them to “Look in the Mirror”. Of course, they’ve been staring into it the entire time, so this message frustrates them. However, when Aidan comes to the conclusion that they should look inside the actual physical mirror, they find a black rock.
No, no, this isn’t as anticlimactic as it sounds. In fact, it’s rather exciting. A raven flies out of the mirror and bursts into sparks in the middle of their attic. They grip the rock and a jolt of energy shoots through them. Oh, and then they find out they’ve been transported a day into the future, in their own house. And if they don’t want to screw up time forever, they have to avoid meeting themselves.
The Writing: 9/10
"Then it was gone. The light was gone. And her beloved twin brother was gone. There was nothing but the soft breeze, the quiet, sunlit opening in the forest, and the chamber door behind her. All was as it was before.
Except now, she was alone." – Diane Solomon & Mark Carey, The Ravenstone
The Ravenstone is a (lower) middle-grade fantasy novel told in third person. Nadia is the narrator for most of the novel, but there are little snippets where the point of view shifts. It’s done eloquently, however, so the POV shifts never seem abrupt.
I say this is lower middle grade because the protagonists are 13. Kids tend to read about people older than them, so that would make this novel’s target reading group around 10-13 years old. The voice and tone of the novel are very suited for this age group, except in a few places here and there. For example, I’ve never known a 13-year-old boy to say, “We need to be constructive, here” or to use the word “a-jumble” when describing his room after someone riffled through it. Most kids I know would just say, “Someone messed up my room”. Those parts aren’t really a huge issue, but there are some words that 11-year-olds probably aren’t familiar with. Oh well, that’s what dictionaries are for.
The characters are really cute. The world is seen from the perspective of these kids and I think it was wonderfully captured. The world is really interesting and well thought-out, and every leaf and branch is there, on the page. The world is described so well that the magic practically jumps off the page and feels real. It’s absolutely wonderful.
The plot is actually quite interesting. It’s not completely linear, like most middle-grade books (well, the kids are time travelling back and forth) but still easy enough to follow for younger readers. The overarching source of conflict may feel a little trivial for some older readers, however, as it’s based on the fact that the twins don’t want to move. It becomes compelling, however, when you take into account all the different subplots, which are what really move this book along.
It’s told at a brisk, but not too crazy pace, so you understand every aspect of what’s going on, but you also don’t get lost in the details of the magic. That’s something I find some fantasy novels struggle with, so this was a really refreshing read.
The Feels: 9/10
I really liked this novel! I struggled a bit at the beginning because the novel didn’t start off with a very spunky middle-grade voice. I guess I’m too used to reading upper middle grade. Once I got into the subplots, though, it was great.
This novel kind of reminds me of those Magic Tree House books I used to love (anyone remember those? Or am I too old?). Except, with more sophisticated plotting and writing.
There was a lot of suspense and mystery. The bad guys were terrifyingly bad and the good guys were cute and smart and good. Older readers may find that a bit too simple, but for the middle-grade category, this novel is up there with the greats.
Conclusion: If you’ve ever wanted to go on a magical time travelling adventure with a pair of smart, inquisitive twins (or are doing some Christmas shopping for young, avid readers) be sure to check The Ravenstone out!
You know how attics are full of junk but while cleaning them out, you always find a treasure or two? Weeelll, Aidan and Nadia’s attic is a little different. Just a bit. While cleaning their attic out, the twins (Yes, they are twins whose names are mirror images. Smart, right?) discover an ancient mirror. On its own, it’s innocent enough, but when an old guy manifests in the mirror and starts writing messages out at them, they get a little freaked. But also curious.
As any wise 13-year-olds know to do, Aidan and Nadia ask their grandmother when they can’t figure out what the old guy is trying to tell them. It turns out he’s writing in old Irish and telling them to “Look in the Mirror”. Of course, they’ve been staring into it the entire time, so this message frustrates them. However, when Aidan comes to the conclusion that they should look inside the actual physical mirror, they find a black rock.
No, no, this isn’t as anticlimactic as it sounds. In fact, it’s rather exciting. A raven flies out of the mirror and bursts into sparks in the middle of their attic. They grip the rock and a jolt of energy shoots through them. Oh, and then they find out they’ve been transported a day into the future, in their own house. And if they don’t want to screw up time forever, they have to avoid meeting themselves.
The Writing: 9/10
"Then it was gone. The light was gone. And her beloved twin brother was gone. There was nothing but the soft breeze, the quiet, sunlit opening in the forest, and the chamber door behind her. All was as it was before.
Except now, she was alone." – Diane Solomon & Mark Carey, The Ravenstone
The Ravenstone is a (lower) middle-grade fantasy novel told in third person. Nadia is the narrator for most of the novel, but there are little snippets where the point of view shifts. It’s done eloquently, however, so the POV shifts never seem abrupt.
I say this is lower middle grade because the protagonists are 13. Kids tend to read about people older than them, so that would make this novel’s target reading group around 10-13 years old. The voice and tone of the novel are very suited for this age group, except in a few places here and there. For example, I’ve never known a 13-year-old boy to say, “We need to be constructive, here” or to use the word “a-jumble” when describing his room after someone riffled through it. Most kids I know would just say, “Someone messed up my room”. Those parts aren’t really a huge issue, but there are some words that 11-year-olds probably aren’t familiar with. Oh well, that’s what dictionaries are for.
The characters are really cute. The world is seen from the perspective of these kids and I think it was wonderfully captured. The world is really interesting and well thought-out, and every leaf and branch is there, on the page. The world is described so well that the magic practically jumps off the page and feels real. It’s absolutely wonderful.
The plot is actually quite interesting. It’s not completely linear, like most middle-grade books (well, the kids are time travelling back and forth) but still easy enough to follow for younger readers. The overarching source of conflict may feel a little trivial for some older readers, however, as it’s based on the fact that the twins don’t want to move. It becomes compelling, however, when you take into account all the different subplots, which are what really move this book along.
It’s told at a brisk, but not too crazy pace, so you understand every aspect of what’s going on, but you also don’t get lost in the details of the magic. That’s something I find some fantasy novels struggle with, so this was a really refreshing read.
The Feels: 9/10
I really liked this novel! I struggled a bit at the beginning because the novel didn’t start off with a very spunky middle-grade voice. I guess I’m too used to reading upper middle grade. Once I got into the subplots, though, it was great.
This novel kind of reminds me of those Magic Tree House books I used to love (anyone remember those? Or am I too old?). Except, with more sophisticated plotting and writing.
There was a lot of suspense and mystery. The bad guys were terrifyingly bad and the good guys were cute and smart and good. Older readers may find that a bit too simple, but for the middle-grade category, this novel is up there with the greats.
Conclusion: If you’ve ever wanted to go on a magical time travelling adventure with a pair of smart, inquisitive twins (or are doing some Christmas shopping for young, avid readers) be sure to check The Ravenstone out!
February 28, 2017
The Ravenstone: The Secret of Ninham Mountain may have been written for children/middle grade readers but I loved it! When asked to read and review this book I figured it would be a cute little book and that if I wasn't able to get into it (since it is a children's/middle grade book) I would consider having my daughter read and review it for me. Well, that clearly wasn't an issue at all! I will tell her that she should read it, but only because it was so good!
I don't recall reading many, if any, books about twins so that was interesting in itself. There were honestly so many interesting things in this book! It kept me wanting to read and I found myself trying to sneak in extra times to read a chapter or two. As a matter of fact, I "went to bed" early so that I could finish it last night!
I will certainly be recommending this book! Not just to children or middle graders, but to anyone who enjoys reading science fiction, fantasy, action, magical type genres. Thank you, Mark Carey, for sending this book to me!
*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I don't recall reading many, if any, books about twins so that was interesting in itself. There were honestly so many interesting things in this book! It kept me wanting to read and I found myself trying to sneak in extra times to read a chapter or two. As a matter of fact, I "went to bed" early so that I could finish it last night!
I will certainly be recommending this book! Not just to children or middle graders, but to anyone who enjoys reading science fiction, fantasy, action, magical type genres. Thank you, Mark Carey, for sending this book to me!
*Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2016
Aidan and Nadia are cleaning out the attic and find an adventure. Born into a family with an inordinate amount of twins, they discover something special in the history of their family - a strange stone, the Ravenstone, carved with two raven heads on the ends, which allows twins to travel through time and space. At first, cautious of the man who appears in their grandmother's mirror, Aidan and Nadia only use the Ravenstone for small leaps and jumps. However, their father's research has failed making a move across the country to New Jersey necessary, and Aidan and Nadia are sure that a plant they saw in a vision in the mirror is the key to keeping his research going. Convinced by the man in the mirror that their help is needed and determined to help their family, they travel back in time and meet with more adventure.
October 21, 2016
Nadia and Aiden are 13-years-old twins living with their parents and 17-years old sister Heather in Cold Spring NY. Nadia and Aiden have a special bond, They understand each other without words, and as their grandmother Liz says, together they show that 1+1 equals more than two.
One day, while cleaning the attic, an old wizard, and a crow appear in the mirror and talks to the twins. The wizard points them to a magical artifact – the ravenstone, which enables the twins to travel in time.
They are scared but also intrigued, and when the wizard sends them on an important mission, they accept the challenge and go back in time.
All adventure lovers would certainly enjoy this high-paced plot.
One day, while cleaning the attic, an old wizard, and a crow appear in the mirror and talks to the twins. The wizard points them to a magical artifact – the ravenstone, which enables the twins to travel in time.
They are scared but also intrigued, and when the wizard sends them on an important mission, they accept the challenge and go back in time.
All adventure lovers would certainly enjoy this high-paced plot.
September 26, 2016
Solomon and Carey's imaginative storytelling sweeps you into a fascinating tale of mystery and adventure. Young twins Nadia and Aidan stumble upon an ancient power that could help their family in the future, or trap them in the past forever. Highly recommended!
December 24, 2016
The first chapter pulls you in and makes you want to read more....then it slows down until you're about halfway through the book. Which, I must admit, was disappointing after such a promising start. It definitely finished strong however. Ok book overall.
Received for review
Received for review
April 14, 2017
Thirteen year old twins, Aidan and Nadia have been assigned to clean out the attic. When Nadia is alone in the attic, the mirror she is dusting suddenly sees an old man appearing in it and disappears quickly. Nadia doesn't know what to think. She has her twin come up to the attic to look at the mirror and the old man appears again with an indecipherable message. Aunty/grandmother Liz helps them figure out what the message means. Nadia and Aiden go back to the attic and discover the Ravenstone hidden in a secret drawer of the mirror. The twins time travel across centuries in the past where they embark on an exciting and dangerous mission. What is the mission?
The book is well written. It is adventurous with twists and turns including a secret that Aunty/grandmother that surprises them. There are more secrets to be discovered. I enjoyed discovering and traveling through time with the twins.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Net-galley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
The book is well written. It is adventurous with twists and turns including a secret that Aunty/grandmother that surprises them. There are more secrets to be discovered. I enjoyed discovering and traveling through time with the twins.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book free from the author/publisher from Net-galley. I was not obliged to write a favorable review, or even any review at all. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
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