song of blood and stone

3.5 stars

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a good first book in this new series. There is minimal worldbuilding, but that’s pretty typical for a YA Fantasy book. The main characters are likeable and earnest. There is plenty of action and the storyline moves along at a decent pace. I recommend reading this book.

The story is set in two countries called Elsira and Lagamiri. The 2 countries are separated by a mystical “mantle” that is an invisible wall. Throughout the years, breaches have appeared in the mantle allowing the armies of the countries to slip through and fight each other. The main female character, Jasminda, lives in Elsira. One parent was from Elsira and the other from Lagamiri. Jasminda is an orphan and outcast because she has a gift called Earthsong that gives her special abilities. Apparently there are different strengths and abilities of Earthsong, but this is never really explained in any detail and remains a mystery.

When soldiers invade her isolated cabin with an injured prisoner spy named Jack, Jasminda uses her gift to heal Jack and help him escape. Jack has discovered that the mantle is about to permanently fail and he must do whatever is necessary to save his people. The couple must rely on each other in an effort to save the countries from death and war.

I look forward to reading the next book in this series.