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The Gemeta Stone #1
Kinglet
This edition is out of print.
Please see 2nd edition at https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4....
Kristan Gemeta has lost everything: his crown, his kingdom, his courage – even his name.
In the vast wilderness of the Exilwald, he's known to the other outcasts as Kinglet. As long as Kristan stays hidden, he can elude the bounty hunters, brutal soldiers and terrifying spells of Daazna, the Wichelord who killed his father and destroyed his life.
But when a new band of pursuers comes looking for him, Kristan's wariness gives way to intrigue. For bounty hunters they're oddly inept, and a young woman in their company is leaving enigmatic drawings wherever they go. As they plunge deeper into the Exilwald, Kristan follows. He discovers the drawings symbolize the Gemeta Stone, an ancient family talisman seized by Daazna but now in the little band's possession.
With the Stone's protection, Kristan might stand a chance against Daazna. He could regain his birthright and his honor. But to obtain the Stone, he must reveal his true identity and risk the one thing he has left...his life.
Please see 2nd edition at https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4....
Kristan Gemeta has lost everything: his crown, his kingdom, his courage – even his name.
In the vast wilderness of the Exilwald, he's known to the other outcasts as Kinglet. As long as Kristan stays hidden, he can elude the bounty hunters, brutal soldiers and terrifying spells of Daazna, the Wichelord who killed his father and destroyed his life.
But when a new band of pursuers comes looking for him, Kristan's wariness gives way to intrigue. For bounty hunters they're oddly inept, and a young woman in their company is leaving enigmatic drawings wherever they go. As they plunge deeper into the Exilwald, Kristan follows. He discovers the drawings symbolize the Gemeta Stone, an ancient family talisman seized by Daazna but now in the little band's possession.
With the Stone's protection, Kristan might stand a chance against Daazna. He could regain his birthright and his honor. But to obtain the Stone, he must reveal his true identity and risk the one thing he has left...his life.
- GenresFantasy
Unknown Binding
First published August 1, 2017
8 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
Donna Migliaccio
12 books20 followersDonna Migliaccio is a professional stage actress with credits that include Broadway, National Tours and prominent regional theatres. Her fantasy series, THE GEMETA STONE, is available exclusively on Amazon.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
June 4, 2018
Let me put it like this... I’m not even in the mood to write this, ‘cause... the only thing I want to do is read ‘Fiskur’!! (Gemeta Stone #2)
What an amazing story! I went in blind, without any expectations. That’s the thing I love about books that aren’t hyped (yet!). I love to dive in without any expectations. And so I did... Which made me realize... this book should definitely be a hype! ;-)
The characters are so well-written and unique. Different then any other story I’ve read so far. I was also very surprised about the mythical creatures. Didn’t see that part coming. Loved those chapters!
Kristan Gemeta is a character I really like so far. He surprises me every time! I won’t say too much about his character, because I might spoil something.
What I also really loved is the foreign languages that are used. Chapeau Donna! And the riddles!!! They rock!
I won’t say anymore... JUST READ THIS! You won’t regret! <3
I’ll soon post a review on https://simscupoftea.com
What an amazing story! I went in blind, without any expectations. That’s the thing I love about books that aren’t hyped (yet!). I love to dive in without any expectations. And so I did... Which made me realize... this book should definitely be a hype! ;-)
The characters are so well-written and unique. Different then any other story I’ve read so far. I was also very surprised about the mythical creatures. Didn’t see that part coming. Loved those chapters!
Kristan Gemeta is a character I really like so far. He surprises me every time! I won’t say too much about his character, because I might spoil something.
What I also really loved is the foreign languages that are used. Chapeau Donna! And the riddles!!! They rock!
I won’t say anymore... JUST READ THIS! You won’t regret! <3
I’ll soon post a review on https://simscupoftea.com
April 28, 2018
I really really enjoyed this book! I found that within the first 1o-20 pages I was hooked!
The characters were unique and well-written, and broke the stereotype of fantasy characters that many books employ. I think this book would be fantastic for any reader wanting to delve into fantasy, as it has a fast-paced plot, but is still easy to follow. The writing was fantastic, and I can't wait to move onto the next one!
(If you're going to read this be prepared and have the next book ready, because I can assure you, you'll want to dive straight into it!)
The characters were unique and well-written, and broke the stereotype of fantasy characters that many books employ. I think this book would be fantastic for any reader wanting to delve into fantasy, as it has a fast-paced plot, but is still easy to follow. The writing was fantastic, and I can't wait to move onto the next one!
(If you're going to read this be prepared and have the next book ready, because I can assure you, you'll want to dive straight into it!)
May 5, 2018
Name: Kinglet- The Gemeta Stone
Author: Donna Migliaccio
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 370
.
'Kinglet' is the first book in 'The Gemeta Stone' series, penned with wit and imagination by Donna Migliaccio. The book presents a beautifully created world of fantasy with kingdoms and their rulers- a world which is impossible to not think about.
When Daazna, the Wichelord murders the king of Fandrall, Kristan Gemeta, the prince, loses everything. He escapes to the wildnerness of Exilward, where he is nurtured and guarded by Martin and Gabriel. He is safe till he is hidden but when a group of Hogian rebels come in search for him, he has to come out in the open. Kristan's intrigue gets him involved with them mainlt because of his curiousity about the presence of a girl, Heather, in the group. She brings with her the Gemeta Stone, an ancient Talisman of the Gemeta family, earlier seized by Daazna. The Hogians are willing to give the stone to Kristan in return of a favour. The book is Kristan's journey to get his kingdom back from the oppressor.
The author has wonderfully laid the ground for the second book of the series, especially with the open end that makes you want to dive into the second one straightaway. The fantasy land with all its unique creatures, the plot twists and well-described charactets keeps you totally into the book. The book is primarily focused on Kristan and his growth from someone who is seen as a coward to the one who is ready to take chargeof the kingdom. The book is fast paced and an enjoyable read with simple yet skillful writing.
Author: Donna Migliaccio
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 370
.
'Kinglet' is the first book in 'The Gemeta Stone' series, penned with wit and imagination by Donna Migliaccio. The book presents a beautifully created world of fantasy with kingdoms and their rulers- a world which is impossible to not think about.
When Daazna, the Wichelord murders the king of Fandrall, Kristan Gemeta, the prince, loses everything. He escapes to the wildnerness of Exilward, where he is nurtured and guarded by Martin and Gabriel. He is safe till he is hidden but when a group of Hogian rebels come in search for him, he has to come out in the open. Kristan's intrigue gets him involved with them mainlt because of his curiousity about the presence of a girl, Heather, in the group. She brings with her the Gemeta Stone, an ancient Talisman of the Gemeta family, earlier seized by Daazna. The Hogians are willing to give the stone to Kristan in return of a favour. The book is Kristan's journey to get his kingdom back from the oppressor.
The author has wonderfully laid the ground for the second book of the series, especially with the open end that makes you want to dive into the second one straightaway. The fantasy land with all its unique creatures, the plot twists and well-described charactets keeps you totally into the book. The book is primarily focused on Kristan and his growth from someone who is seen as a coward to the one who is ready to take chargeof the kingdom. The book is fast paced and an enjoyable read with simple yet skillful writing.
September 13, 2017
I didn’t know anything about Donna Migliaccio (or her publisher, Fiery Seas Publishing) or The Gemeta Stone books that she writes. I stumbled on them quite accidentally while chatting about nonrelated items on a forum over at Absolute Write and Migliaccio was kind enough to send me a review copy for my Inside the Inkwell blog.
Comparatively speaking it felt like a splendid mix of RA Salvatore and Christopher Paolini. Whereas Salvatore can read stylistically like a fantasy version of Stephen King (for all the pros and cons there) Paolini can sometimes keep on point and keep it short—perhaps to a fault. Migliaccio’s writing is a good mix and keeps the story moving nicely but the worldbuilding feels more smooth and established, like Salvatore.
It had some elements that give it a YA feel, but also some that seemed more like it targeted a mainstream market; by that I mean there is a kind of coming of age in the characters as they discover their inner strengths and overcome Daazna (who is a real jerk—so that’s a good bit of characterization by the author.) That said, general lovers of fantasy would be a good fit for Kinglet and the upcoming sequel in the Gemeta Stone series.
Comparatively speaking it felt like a splendid mix of RA Salvatore and Christopher Paolini. Whereas Salvatore can read stylistically like a fantasy version of Stephen King (for all the pros and cons there) Paolini can sometimes keep on point and keep it short—perhaps to a fault. Migliaccio’s writing is a good mix and keeps the story moving nicely but the worldbuilding feels more smooth and established, like Salvatore.
It had some elements that give it a YA feel, but also some that seemed more like it targeted a mainstream market; by that I mean there is a kind of coming of age in the characters as they discover their inner strengths and overcome Daazna (who is a real jerk—so that’s a good bit of characterization by the author.) That said, general lovers of fantasy would be a good fit for Kinglet and the upcoming sequel in the Gemeta Stone series.
November 19, 2017
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Kristan Gemeta has lost everything: his father, his kingdom, and his identity. When his kingdom is taken over by Daaza, a Wichelord--which is basically an evil sorceror, Kristan is forced to flee and go into hiding. While in hiding, Kristan runs into a group of people who have coincidentally gotten a hold of The Gemeta Stone, a powerful family heirloom that could help Kristan fight Daaza. This book is about Kristan's journey to *hopefully* get his home back and stop Daaza.
Kristan was a likeable character. He's clever and doesn't like fighting. It's nice to see him grow as a character and really mature into the leader he will have to be. Daaza is crazy and evil. I really wish I could've gotten into his head a little more-- maybe that happens in the next book.
The ending was a little abrupt for me, so I would recommend waiting for the next book to release before investing yourself in the series--that way you don't have to wait for the sequel.
Overall, this book was a good read, not too heavy, well-paced, and full of great characters. I look forward to watching them grow and develop more in the next book.
Kristan Gemeta has lost everything: his father, his kingdom, and his identity. When his kingdom is taken over by Daaza, a Wichelord--which is basically an evil sorceror, Kristan is forced to flee and go into hiding. While in hiding, Kristan runs into a group of people who have coincidentally gotten a hold of The Gemeta Stone, a powerful family heirloom that could help Kristan fight Daaza. This book is about Kristan's journey to *hopefully* get his home back and stop Daaza.
Kristan was a likeable character. He's clever and doesn't like fighting. It's nice to see him grow as a character and really mature into the leader he will have to be. Daaza is crazy and evil. I really wish I could've gotten into his head a little more-- maybe that happens in the next book.
The ending was a little abrupt for me, so I would recommend waiting for the next book to release before investing yourself in the series--that way you don't have to wait for the sequel.
Overall, this book was a good read, not too heavy, well-paced, and full of great characters. I look forward to watching them grow and develop more in the next book.
September 9, 2017
A New World
This is a splendid introduction to a new magical world told with wit, imagination and humanity. If, like me, fantasy novels are new ground, I was a little wary of magic, strange names and places - turns out that there are lots of plot twists, humour and engaging characters to make you forget all of that. So, Ms Migliaccio has made a convert, and I am ready for her next outing.
This is a splendid introduction to a new magical world told with wit, imagination and humanity. If, like me, fantasy novels are new ground, I was a little wary of magic, strange names and places - turns out that there are lots of plot twists, humour and engaging characters to make you forget all of that. So, Ms Migliaccio has made a convert, and I am ready for her next outing.
September 7, 2017
Captivating
Loved it! Captivating plots twist and turns, engaging character development, and a new world to explore. I didn't want to put it down. I'm eagerly awaiting the next volume.
Loved it! Captivating plots twist and turns, engaging character development, and a new world to explore. I didn't want to put it down. I'm eagerly awaiting the next volume.
November 10, 2017
A brilliant book with wonderful world-building. If you're a historical fantasy/young adult fan I highly recommend... Happy reading!
October 20, 2018
***I was very kindly provided with a free copy of this book by Fiery Seas Publishing in exchange for an honest review. All the opinions stated below are my own ***
If asked what my favourite genre is, I would tell you that Fantasy is by far the most entertaining read for me. I have been busy enjoying some different genres for a while, so to come back to a favourite, written so well as this... what can I say? I fell in love straight away!
That being said, I'm not a huge fan of all the tropes in Fantasy. If I'm honest, I think the orphaned child is one that is used time again - I'd go so far as to say a little overused for my taste, but some people like that. There are some other stereotypical elements to Kristan's character - he is kind, noble and forgiving.... way too forgiving! Oh, he's handsome too. Did I forget to mention that?! Again, these are typical traits that are very common among our Fantasy leads.
The only author I can think that has completely flipped these traits on their head with their protagonist is Mark Lawrence, in his The Broken Empire series. The protagonist's character is extremely well developed; his most defining features are his flaws... and believe me, there are many! I found his unique character a refreshing change; there were times I loved to hate him, and then others I couldn't help but pity him. He stands out from the crowd of fantasy protagonists by stepping away from the norm, which I really appreciated.
As much as Kristan's character encapsulates a lot of the favourable and stereotypical traits one might expect and we commonly see, that isn't to say I didn't like him. I felt an affinity to him from the start, even from his brief spell at the beginning as a youth, always under pressure to adhere to high expectations and trying to understand the world and its workings from an early age. Not to put this across as a negative point (I'm more in favour of calling it a constructive one), I would have liked to see a little more originality to Kristan's personality.
I really enjoyed the magical element being introduced straight away. We are thrown into the action first and gradually our understanding of the motive is built upon later. With world building in Fantasy, it is very easy to try and 'info dump' a lot of background before anything even happens. This is far from the case, and rightly so, because that can ruin a book for me. Bogging a reader down in details is a turn off, but gradually integrating ideas, clues and other information is the best way to move narrative in the right direction. Donna achieves this effortlessly.
Two years after the Gemeta's flight from his home, his father's death and the powerful mage responsible for it, a group of rebels leave Fandrall equipped with the magical stone that has been in the Gemeta's possession for generations. They travel into the unknown Exilwald, his rumoured hiding place and home to a number of unsavoury characters.
The dynamic of our adventurers attempting to find the exiled King changes frequently. Family ties and friendships are tested, as would be expected from a group forced out of their homes with merely the clothes on their back.
hilst not the most companionable character of the group, I actually came to like Colin an awful lot. As head of the group, his predominantly negative attitude stems from his feeling of responsibility to protect. In a lot of ways he comes across as an antagonist, but truthfully he is a man very much grounded in reality. He's grumpy, miserable and completely pessimistic about the slim chances of completing the task at hand - a bit like me before my first coffee of the day really...
There are many things I could talk about that I really enjoyed, but to summarise, I'll say this - it has a fantastic plot and an approachable narrative with a wonderful twist of many elements that make up a classic fantasy.
Rather than reading my positive ramblings, you could be reading this for yourself! Thank you to Donna and Fiery Seas Publishing for the chance to pick up this wonderful start to a new series! I cannot wait to read the next one!
If asked what my favourite genre is, I would tell you that Fantasy is by far the most entertaining read for me. I have been busy enjoying some different genres for a while, so to come back to a favourite, written so well as this... what can I say? I fell in love straight away!
That being said, I'm not a huge fan of all the tropes in Fantasy. If I'm honest, I think the orphaned child is one that is used time again - I'd go so far as to say a little overused for my taste, but some people like that. There are some other stereotypical elements to Kristan's character - he is kind, noble and forgiving.... way too forgiving! Oh, he's handsome too. Did I forget to mention that?! Again, these are typical traits that are very common among our Fantasy leads.
The only author I can think that has completely flipped these traits on their head with their protagonist is Mark Lawrence, in his The Broken Empire series. The protagonist's character is extremely well developed; his most defining features are his flaws... and believe me, there are many! I found his unique character a refreshing change; there were times I loved to hate him, and then others I couldn't help but pity him. He stands out from the crowd of fantasy protagonists by stepping away from the norm, which I really appreciated.
As much as Kristan's character encapsulates a lot of the favourable and stereotypical traits one might expect and we commonly see, that isn't to say I didn't like him. I felt an affinity to him from the start, even from his brief spell at the beginning as a youth, always under pressure to adhere to high expectations and trying to understand the world and its workings from an early age. Not to put this across as a negative point (I'm more in favour of calling it a constructive one), I would have liked to see a little more originality to Kristan's personality.
I really enjoyed the magical element being introduced straight away. We are thrown into the action first and gradually our understanding of the motive is built upon later. With world building in Fantasy, it is very easy to try and 'info dump' a lot of background before anything even happens. This is far from the case, and rightly so, because that can ruin a book for me. Bogging a reader down in details is a turn off, but gradually integrating ideas, clues and other information is the best way to move narrative in the right direction. Donna achieves this effortlessly.
Two years after the Gemeta's flight from his home, his father's death and the powerful mage responsible for it, a group of rebels leave Fandrall equipped with the magical stone that has been in the Gemeta's possession for generations. They travel into the unknown Exilwald, his rumoured hiding place and home to a number of unsavoury characters.
The dynamic of our adventurers attempting to find the exiled King changes frequently. Family ties and friendships are tested, as would be expected from a group forced out of their homes with merely the clothes on their back.
hilst not the most companionable character of the group, I actually came to like Colin an awful lot. As head of the group, his predominantly negative attitude stems from his feeling of responsibility to protect. In a lot of ways he comes across as an antagonist, but truthfully he is a man very much grounded in reality. He's grumpy, miserable and completely pessimistic about the slim chances of completing the task at hand - a bit like me before my first coffee of the day really...
There are many things I could talk about that I really enjoyed, but to summarise, I'll say this - it has a fantastic plot and an approachable narrative with a wonderful twist of many elements that make up a classic fantasy.
Rather than reading my positive ramblings, you could be reading this for yourself! Thank you to Donna and Fiery Seas Publishing for the chance to pick up this wonderful start to a new series! I cannot wait to read the next one!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews