Review of Stoneslayer

[Sean Patrick Tracy]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Stoneslayer" by Candace Lynn Talmadge.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Stoneslayer: Book One Scandal by Candace Lynn Talmadge is a thrilling novel that tells a story set in Azgard, where division based on race and class rule supreme. Our protagonist is Helen Andros, a mixed race and of illegitimate birth who is a talented healer but has a hard time overcoming the prevailing prejudice. Nevertheless, she is selected to cure the prince, Harnak, an act that puts her into risky political dimensions.

While managing to cure the wounded prince with a magical stone, Helen is arrested and tortured by the Toltec elite, as they understandably do not allow such actions from a half-blood. Her parentage, which is disclosed during her imprisonment, is likely Lord James Modecai, a major political leader, thus adding a political dimension to her situation and her future. Prince Seti, whose main objective is to gain power over his people, perceives Helen as a threat because she has the stone in her possession and the ability to bring together two clans—the Toltecs and Turanians.

The plot thickens through the change of power struggles, by proposing Helen to marry Lord Justin and by revealing the spiritual gift that Helen possesses, which can potentially bring harmony to Azgard. The main themes of the plot are love vs. power or hatred, racism, and the forthcoming confrontation between the forces of darkness and light.

I commend the creativity in this book, as it crafts a plot that blends social satire with the lively experience stories. Another classic example is the humiliation faced by Helen because of her half-breed origins, which depicts actual-world prejudices. But her medical abilities are unrivaled, and yet she is turned away by society because she is half-Toltec and half-Turanian. This rings so true about how merit can be overshadowed by prejudice.

Another engaging aspect of drama is the character-initiated action or decision that requires people to make choices and pay the price. For instance, Lord James Modecai is in a dilemma between choosing Helen and his position in politics. It makes him who he is to finally acknowledge her as his daughter, even if it means losing his title. Such internal conflict also explains why he is one of the most identifiable characters in the book and makes it even more interesting.

The book has been edited impeccably since I did not come across any grammatical mistakes. I enjoy the writing style of the book because it is so easy to read, and I think readers will relate so well to the plots of the stories because there are so many powerful messages. Furthermore, I could not establish an actual negative aspect of the book; thus, I will rate the book 5 out of 5 stars.

Stoneslayer should appeal best to those readers who appreciate contemplating philosophical elements appended to the fantastic themes that question social roles and the sameness of people. If you are interested in high fantasy, political drama, and social issues, then this book should be right up your alley. The themes of sexual and social stereotypes, applicable conflict, and its messages of togetherness and strength in the face of evil make it an interest to teenagers and adults alike who seek in a novel more than just entertainment.

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Stoneslayer
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[Amarachi Stephanie Ejike]

As open, accepting and tolerant society may claim to be, social stereotypes and stigmas still exists in different cultures till date.
"Stoneslayer" by Candace Lynn Talmadge is an intriguing tale where division based on race and class rule supreme. The plot centers around the difficulties and trials Helen Andros, a mixed race and of illegitimate birth who is a talented healer, faced in Azgard.
I love the storyline, and I believe it will be an insightful read.