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World of the Stone Maze #1
Labyrinth
Jost is an unusual loner in Cartha. He wanders the stone maze that surrounds his city, where hideous creatures dwell and danger lurks. No one else dares set foot within the maze.
On a day like any other, he discovers a gem in the walls, which he takes for himself. But the gem contains an ancient magic which protects Cartha, and when Jost returns to the city, he finds it under attack by monsters.
Now, Jost must go deeper into the labyrinth than he ever has before, and unearth the secrets of the magic in this world. If he doesn’t learn to understand it, it will consume the other cities and all of humanity.
On a day like any other, he discovers a gem in the walls, which he takes for himself. But the gem contains an ancient magic which protects Cartha, and when Jost returns to the city, he finds it under attack by monsters.
Now, Jost must go deeper into the labyrinth than he ever has before, and unearth the secrets of the magic in this world. If he doesn’t learn to understand it, it will consume the other cities and all of humanity.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2021
7 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Shane Lee
5 books22 followersShane Lee is an epic dark fantasy author living in Buffalo, NY with his wife and their two dogs. He reads a lot, but between words he plays the drums, golf, and a fair amount of video games.
Find Shane on Facebook and Threads @ShaneLeeBooks
Find Shane on Facebook and Threads @ShaneLeeBooks
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 20, 2021
At first, I was afraid this book was going to try to be The Maze Runner 2.0. Don't understand me wrong, I love that series, but I'm just not really into stories that are pretry much lookalikes but still different. Good news, no need to worry, you'll get an entirely different and original story.
If you like the intrigues of something that happened in the past and resulted into these giant walls being constructed, crossed over with magic, keep on reading! The writing style is really good paced, you always want to find out what will happen next. The way how magic is integrated into the storyline is nice as well, no wand waving or such, in the beginning you don't even know what kind of magic it is. While the story continues, you start to discover some things about the magic, together with Jost, the main character. I never saw the developments at the end coming, but that keeps it exciting.
One thing I missed in this book, is the connection with other characters. At the beginning of the book, you already know Jost is a loner, that's fine. But I kept hoping for an unexpected, soon to be best friend (possibly enemy first) to come along so there could be some witty dialogues and such. Here I was a bit disappointed, because every time new characters are introduced... well, you'll have to read the book yourself to find out what I mean 😉 This changes a bit for the last 60 or so pages, but still, the book is almost over by then. Hopefully there will be some more room in the second book for additional characters getting intertwined with the main storyline.
Although the ending of the book seemed a little bit out of the blue and unexpected, I'm looking forward to reading the next book to see how everything will evolve and how the story will continue to develop. So overall I would say, 3,5/5 stars
(Thank you Shane Lee for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review, I enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward to the sequel)
If you like the intrigues of something that happened in the past and resulted into these giant walls being constructed, crossed over with magic, keep on reading! The writing style is really good paced, you always want to find out what will happen next. The way how magic is integrated into the storyline is nice as well, no wand waving or such, in the beginning you don't even know what kind of magic it is. While the story continues, you start to discover some things about the magic, together with Jost, the main character. I never saw the developments at the end coming, but that keeps it exciting.
One thing I missed in this book, is the connection with other characters. At the beginning of the book, you already know Jost is a loner, that's fine. But I kept hoping for an unexpected, soon to be best friend (possibly enemy first) to come along so there could be some witty dialogues and such. Here I was a bit disappointed, because every time new characters are introduced... well, you'll have to read the book yourself to find out what I mean 😉 This changes a bit for the last 60 or so pages, but still, the book is almost over by then. Hopefully there will be some more room in the second book for additional characters getting intertwined with the main storyline.
Although the ending of the book seemed a little bit out of the blue and unexpected, I'm looking forward to reading the next book to see how everything will evolve and how the story will continue to develop. So overall I would say, 3,5/5 stars
(Thank you Shane Lee for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review, I enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward to the sequel)
January 8, 2023
“This was stupid and reckless, even judging by what I’d done up to now. Best to accept it, then.” -Jost
This is now how I will be approaching situations 😂 Honestly though, this book was amazing! The world building alone had me from page 1 and everything else just kept me hooked! Jost is such an interesting character and everything he’s learned/experienced makes it easy to fall into the story and the adventure.
At first glance, Labyrinth seems like a throwback to Maze Runner with a little Roanoke twist and magic. It is so much more! Ancient monsters, hidden secrets, lovable characters—even if they’re taken away (tell Shane I’m still mad about it Amy!) and enough of a twist to cause a lot of stress (for me) but it’s so so worth it! I don’t think I’ve ever read a dark fantasy that’s not spicy before and I’m so glad Labyrinth was my first! I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings!
This is now how I will be approaching situations 😂 Honestly though, this book was amazing! The world building alone had me from page 1 and everything else just kept me hooked! Jost is such an interesting character and everything he’s learned/experienced makes it easy to fall into the story and the adventure.
At first glance, Labyrinth seems like a throwback to Maze Runner with a little Roanoke twist and magic. It is so much more! Ancient monsters, hidden secrets, lovable characters—even if they’re taken away (tell Shane I’m still mad about it Amy!) and enough of a twist to cause a lot of stress (for me) but it’s so so worth it! I don’t think I’ve ever read a dark fantasy that’s not spicy before and I’m so glad Labyrinth was my first! I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings!
February 10, 2022
I would like the second book, please. This was highly enjoyable, and I think any who enjoys Greek mythology will enjoy this
January 24, 2021
A dystopian fantasy where The Maze Runner meets Attack on Titan. Humanity is separated within a labyrinth which was built to keep ancient monsters out. But cities have lost communication over the centuries, and each small haven is self-sustainable. Jost, an outcast in the city of Cartha, wanders the maze to hunt and make a living, but the other residents of Cartha despise him for it. Anyone else who has tried to enter the maze hasn't come out alive. There's something different about Jost...
Enter the labyrinth and unearth its twists and turns - literally. The secrets and horrors within the walls will keep you turning the pages. Magic, monsters, and a twist you will NEVER see coming!
Enter the labyrinth and unearth its twists and turns - literally. The secrets and horrors within the walls will keep you turning the pages. Magic, monsters, and a twist you will NEVER see coming!
January 19, 2023
To the author: I want you to know that this 3 star is not me telling you your book was bad by any means. I just have a harsher scale than some people I know. If I had a way of making it 3.5 I would. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this.
This was a fast paced and exciting read that I was privileged enough to get to experience. The main character, Jost, was likeable from the get-go and I enjoyed seeing him develop as I read the book.
Some pros and cons for Labyrinth:
Pros:
- Story was intriguing and drew me in right away
- There were enough moments of suspense that I found myself not wanting to put the (e)book down at times.
- The magic in this world is interesting, but I need to know more about it
- The monsters were very imaginative. Loved the idea of a giant shadowy, tentacle, turtle.
- Jost felt organic in how he handled himself and reacted to situations in clever ways.
- The description of the environment, especially the Walls, was well done. I want more. I want to know more about the life inside the labyrinth.
- Not afraid to kill characters. I appreciate that. Too many people want a happy ending for everyone. Sad that Derrick had to go. He seemed like he would have been an interesting character to follow.
Cons:
- Tell me more about the magic. I know Jost doesn't really know, but it seems almost like no one does. Tell me how it works. Where does it come from? Maybe this is in the next book.
- Word choice and cadence was a bit off at the start of the book. Not so much that I was put off from reading, but certainly enough for me to notice at times.
- While Jost became a more realized character as the book went on, I felt as though some of the other characters weren't given a chance to really develop. Atell was just gone for half the book, and The One was only around for a few minutes.
- I want to see more magic. I know Jost just stumbled into his, but he met others (and The One) on his journey who knew/could use magic. I need me some magical dueling. Maybe the next book as well?
Overall, pretty well done. There may be more I have to come back and add in later, but I'm still processing it. I'll probably check out the second book. I want to see how Jost and Atell plan on moving forward.
This was a fast paced and exciting read that I was privileged enough to get to experience. The main character, Jost, was likeable from the get-go and I enjoyed seeing him develop as I read the book.
Some pros and cons for Labyrinth:
Pros:
- Story was intriguing and drew me in right away
- There were enough moments of suspense that I found myself not wanting to put the (e)book down at times.
- The magic in this world is interesting, but I need to know more about it
- The monsters were very imaginative. Loved the idea of a giant shadowy, tentacle, turtle.
- Jost felt organic in how he handled himself and reacted to situations in clever ways.
- The description of the environment, especially the Walls, was well done. I want more. I want to know more about the life inside the labyrinth.
- Not afraid to kill characters. I appreciate that. Too many people want a happy ending for everyone. Sad that Derrick had to go. He seemed like he would have been an interesting character to follow.
Cons:
- Tell me more about the magic. I know Jost doesn't really know, but it seems almost like no one does. Tell me how it works. Where does it come from? Maybe this is in the next book.
- Word choice and cadence was a bit off at the start of the book. Not so much that I was put off from reading, but certainly enough for me to notice at times.
- While Jost became a more realized character as the book went on, I felt as though some of the other characters weren't given a chance to really develop. Atell was just gone for half the book, and The One was only around for a few minutes.
- I want to see more magic. I know Jost just stumbled into his, but he met others (and The One) on his journey who knew/could use magic. I need me some magical dueling. Maybe the next book as well?
Overall, pretty well done. There may be more I have to come back and add in later, but I'm still processing it. I'll probably check out the second book. I want to see how Jost and Atell plan on moving forward.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2023
Starting off, let me preface by saying I have a lot of opinions about this book and struggled with what rating to properly give it.
The idea of this universe that Lee has created is intriguing and has a lot of potential, but it feels like I finished this book left with more questions than answers, and that's before the sudden cliffhanger ending. It's impossible to get into these questions without adding in spoilers, however it starts from the moment you're suddenly thrusted into the story without much introduction. However, that quick pace continues on with a pacing that I did quite enjoy, without much fluff in between.
One of the off points that stuck with me the entire time reading was how impersonal Jost felt in each relationship with the other characters (though I'm certain ending details clear up the 'why' of that). The conversations never seemed to flow correctly and felt awkward (again, something that may have been intended, it was just off odd to read). I also would have loved to see or hear more from these characters, a key point I noticed when I got to chapter eighteen and had only read
dialogue from three characters up to that point- one of those being Jost, another who only exists for a page or two up until that point.
However, I would like to add that the world opening was well done. The questions, while frustrating, do their job to propel the reader onto finding out what happens next (and in the past, for that matter). There is also a high amount of detail behind the characters and the monsters alike that leaves little to the imagination.
Overall, I think this is a very interesting young adult novel that leaves it's reader wanting for more, needing the answers to the questions set up on every page.
The idea of this universe that Lee has created is intriguing and has a lot of potential, but it feels like I finished this book left with more questions than answers, and that's before the sudden cliffhanger ending. It's impossible to get into these questions without adding in spoilers, however it starts from the moment you're suddenly thrusted into the story without much introduction. However, that quick pace continues on with a pacing that I did quite enjoy, without much fluff in between.
One of the off points that stuck with me the entire time reading was how impersonal Jost felt in each relationship with the other characters (though I'm certain ending details clear up the 'why' of that). The conversations never seemed to flow correctly and felt awkward (again, something that may have been intended, it was just off odd to read). I also would have loved to see or hear more from these characters, a key point I noticed when I got to chapter eighteen and had only read
dialogue from three characters up to that point- one of those being Jost, another who only exists for a page or two up until that point.
However, I would like to add that the world opening was well done. The questions, while frustrating, do their job to propel the reader onto finding out what happens next (and in the past, for that matter). There is also a high amount of detail behind the characters and the monsters alike that leaves little to the imagination.
Overall, I think this is a very interesting young adult novel that leaves it's reader wanting for more, needing the answers to the questions set up on every page.
December 31, 2022
This is an amazing start to a new series!
It’s an original idea that I’ve not seen before. I think because of the labyrinth people will try to compare it to the maze runner. It isn’t at all like that.
This is a dystopian dark fantasy. At First i was put off at the fact that Jost (the Mc) didn’t have a lot of interaction with anyone. It made me crave some banter and felt isolated. But this is the brilliance for Mr. Lee’s writing. I actually felt the isolation that Jost was going through. I felt his need to talk to himself just for the human connection, even if it was just his own voice and thoughts. It sets up things that happen later beautifully.
The world building in this book is amazing. I can imagine ever bit of this place and it’s monsters without a problem.
I’m a bit claustrophobic and there is a scene with vines that had me squeamish. So that’s how realistic his writing is.
There is a twist that I didn’t see coming. I had thoughts but it wasn’t totally developed about it. Then bam! Twist! And then things click together and your like well of course!
I’ll be diving into book two right away! This is easily one of my top faves of the year.
It’s an original idea that I’ve not seen before. I think because of the labyrinth people will try to compare it to the maze runner. It isn’t at all like that.
This is a dystopian dark fantasy. At First i was put off at the fact that Jost (the Mc) didn’t have a lot of interaction with anyone. It made me crave some banter and felt isolated. But this is the brilliance for Mr. Lee’s writing. I actually felt the isolation that Jost was going through. I felt his need to talk to himself just for the human connection, even if it was just his own voice and thoughts. It sets up things that happen later beautifully.
The world building in this book is amazing. I can imagine ever bit of this place and it’s monsters without a problem.
I’m a bit claustrophobic and there is a scene with vines that had me squeamish. So that’s how realistic his writing is.
There is a twist that I didn’t see coming. I had thoughts but it wasn’t totally developed about it. Then bam! Twist! And then things click together and your like well of course!
I’ll be diving into book two right away! This is easily one of my top faves of the year.
February 12, 2022
I bought this book of Amazon last year, and I am really glad there is a sequel.
The world of a labyrinth begins with a slow burn intrigue, then somehow straddles the mood between meandering and intense, ending with a sort of enthralling horror; is it possible to find something both gross and delicious?
Following the main character, Jost, the reader is transported into not just one, but many different worlds, each one a microcosm of survival. My personal favourite is Yves, where Jost encounters a civilization that have grown in the shadows of the branches of something enormous. The only criticism I would have of this book is here in Yves where Shane Lee introduces the reader to the delicious branchnut, which doesn't exist in the real world, and yet has left me craving its taste.
The world of a labyrinth begins with a slow burn intrigue, then somehow straddles the mood between meandering and intense, ending with a sort of enthralling horror; is it possible to find something both gross and delicious?
Following the main character, Jost, the reader is transported into not just one, but many different worlds, each one a microcosm of survival. My personal favourite is Yves, where Jost encounters a civilization that have grown in the shadows of the branches of something enormous. The only criticism I would have of this book is here in Yves where Shane Lee introduces the reader to the delicious branchnut, which doesn't exist in the real world, and yet has left me craving its taste.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2022
I was immediately drawn into this story by Shane’s compelling writing style. Jost is a likeable, flawed character and seeing the world of the Stone Maze through his eyes was fascinating. The magic system is really interesting, the monsters are horrifying in their simple yet all too evocative descriptions, the world is harsh and unforgiving.
I loved Jost’s blossoming (or not so much…) relationships with those he meets on his travels. The dialogue was written well and very believable, the character choices and actions convincing. Shane has created a world full of dark mysteries. I’ve learned some of the answers… can’t wait to read the next book to know how this series continues!
I loved Jost’s blossoming (or not so much…) relationships with those he meets on his travels. The dialogue was written well and very believable, the character choices and actions convincing. Shane has created a world full of dark mysteries. I’ve learned some of the answers… can’t wait to read the next book to know how this series continues!
January 16, 2023
When I first saw the book I immediately thought of Maze Runner but was quickly shown other wise.
The book Labyrinth is a dark fantasy mystery thriller. This book produced a need to never stop reading and a thrill to know more. Jost was a mystery of a person and we were taken along for his journey of self discovery and adventure into the unknown. The book is set in a futuristic world where everything is surrounded by walls, so high light barely reaches the ground. This book is full of twists and turns figuratively and literally that not only cause understanding for Josts emotions but also the curiosity of what is around the next corner.
The book Labyrinth is a dark fantasy mystery thriller. This book produced a need to never stop reading and a thrill to know more. Jost was a mystery of a person and we were taken along for his journey of self discovery and adventure into the unknown. The book is set in a futuristic world where everything is surrounded by walls, so high light barely reaches the ground. This book is full of twists and turns figuratively and literally that not only cause understanding for Josts emotions but also the curiosity of what is around the next corner.
January 22, 2023
I was very intrigued by Labyrinth! It was a surprise read that I thoroughly enjoyed by the end of the first book!
Labyrinth is quite literally a labyrinth. You never know where the story is going to be going, even if the only place to go is in the maze.
You are drawn into an adventure you didn't think you wanted, but by the end you did, and you want more!! There is mystery, adventure, danger, darkness, and action. Everything you could ask of a good book!!
I highly suggest giving Labyrinth a read, and then go read the other 2 books so you're not left hanging on for dear life! HAHA!!
Labyrinth is quite literally a labyrinth. You never know where the story is going to be going, even if the only place to go is in the maze.
You are drawn into an adventure you didn't think you wanted, but by the end you did, and you want more!! There is mystery, adventure, danger, darkness, and action. Everything you could ask of a good book!!
I highly suggest giving Labyrinth a read, and then go read the other 2 books so you're not left hanging on for dear life! HAHA!!
January 22, 2023
In a post apocalyptic world all humans live inside the stone maze in hidden enclaves. For their own safety for there lurks danger in the labyrinth.
Our protagonist is the only one who ventures into the labyrinth and of course at some point disaster strikes. He has no chice but to flee into the labyrinth and search for other humans and safety. But he discovers much more than he anticipated. Including his own, very sinister past.
At times it is slow going but the story is well worth it and I will definitely continue the series.
Our protagonist is the only one who ventures into the labyrinth and of course at some point disaster strikes. He has no chice but to flee into the labyrinth and search for other humans and safety. But he discovers much more than he anticipated. Including his own, very sinister past.
At times it is slow going but the story is well worth it and I will definitely continue the series.
February 4, 2023
I have enjoyed this book, the world building is interesting, the plot and story line is very unique. I don't feel like this book is exactly my cup of tea. But it was still a decent read. It's a slower paced fantasy adventure feel. I prefer more fast paced with lots of things happening so it just wasn't my cup of tea but it may be yours.
March 21, 2023
This story was so different compared to what I thought it’d be like and I mean that in a good way. It’s was very unique and hard to predict what would happen next. Host is an interesting character as is Atell. I actually liked that at different times in the story I didn’t like them because later on it changed and I understood more about them. I’m definitely interested in book two.
January 25, 2023
This book has so many plot twists that I never saw coming!!!! The last 40% I could not put down!!!! I need to learn more about Jost and how he came to be and how he’s gonna defeat his “creator”!! I’m thrilled!! Can’t wait to get my hands on the second one!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2023
I was asked to review this book by the author or their team. I personally just could not get into the book it’s just maybe not my style. Honestly I think my husband would enjoy this book more than me.
January 3, 2023
A dystopian dark fantasy with plenty of twists and turns in a labyrinth made of stone. There are plenty of magic and monsters to keep the readers on their toes!
January 16, 2023
This story had an intriguing sense of mystery throught. There were heartbreaking events throughout but there was great character development. Great concept. Slower pace but good story.
February 5, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book. I'm not sure what I expected, but I'm pleasantly surprised by the story and world building. I liked the main character, the monsters and the way the magic works, it's really original and interesting. I can't wait to read the 2nd book in the series :)
If you like reading dark fantasy books, I think you'd also enjoy this.
If you like reading dark fantasy books, I think you'd also enjoy this.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews