The exhilarating, romantic conclusion to The Magic Eaters Trilogy, a dystopian YA fantasy series like no other.
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Can Nora take her father’s crown…before his dark magic takes her life? Ulmin Abrios, King of Cellerin, has gone mad. He’s invading and terrorizing his own cities.
Princess Nora, his estranged daughter, is determined to seize the crown and save her people. Along with her … crown and save her people. Along with her boyfriend Ovrun and her friends Krey and Sarza, she secretly returns to Cellerin.
As she plots to take down her father, Nora wrestles with her desire to find love. She knows how confining life in the palace will be. Could Ovrun—or any man—ever truly embrace the restrictive life of a king?
Touring her land on a dragon’s back, Nora builds a vast team of supporters. But Ulmin’s mind is decimated by forbidden magic, and he’ll use any weapon, from torture to mental slavery, to protect himself. Even against his daughter.
With both the crown and her heart at stake, Nora must give her all to defeat her father. Otherwise, his tyranny will overwhelm the land…giving Nora no escape but death.
Buy The Stone Eater today and devour the final course of this epic series!
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Here’s what early readers are saying about The Stone Eater:
“Stunning storytelling that keeps you gripping the edge of your seat. I stayed up way too late immersed in this world!” -Tracy Magouirk
“You’ll fall in love with the complicated characters – human and dragon, alike!” -Kim D.
“The Stone Eater builds and swells until it seems the whole world will come crashing down. (Also, stock up on tissues and snacks because honest you’re not putting this one down).” -C.M. Irving
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The Stone Eater by Carol Beth Anderson is the final conclusion to the Magic Eaters Trilogy and what an amazing journey!!
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series, the story and characters are well written and it is such a unique magical world that the author has created.
The audio narration is very enjoyable to listen to and does an amazing job bringing everything to life.
I am looking forward to reading more works by this author!!!
What a wonderful end to The Magic Eaters trilogy, it was by far my favourite of the 3. Expect a HEA and everyone being exactly where they should be, and with exactly who they should be with.
You need to read books 1 and 2 in order to see where these magical characters evolved from. This is set in a post-apocalyptic world called Anyari. Their ancestors left Earth to colonise this new world and it’s often described what life was like before ‘The Day’ This is when most of the population died along with all technology much like our own. What the survivors got in return was many of them now have magical abilities.
Like with book 2 this picks up directly where the previous left off. The difference with this one is in the name. The Stone Eater is the king, and we get some insight into his mind. Which you can imagine is loopy but not only that evil. He feels he is acting in the best interests of his people, but like the saying goes, there is nothing more dangerous than someone who is convinced they are on the right side of history.
If you have read the previous 2 already, you are in for an absolute treat. I want to say more but I refuse to spoil it for you. Just expect an even more epic adventure with more battles and so many twists and turns and near misses. You will shed some tears and if you are like me, maybe have big goofy smiles. Always funny when I am out walking and listening to an audio book that brings out the feels as you see some strange looks from people.
This is a young adult high fantasy with a little taste of romance and as I mentioned I listened to the audio version which was read extremely well by the author herself. She did a great job with all the characters but especially bringing Nora to life.
This was a full marks score for me so 5/5.
Thank you, Carol Beth Anderson, for gifting me the complete series on audible in return for a non-biased review. This is a bargain everyone! For just one credit you can get all 4 books in this wonderful series. 40hrs worth of epic fantasy romance and adventure. And yes, I did say 4! There is a prequel which I am happily moving onto now
Of the three books in this series The Stone Eater tell at least two stories. The overall story is that of Nora and her quest to wrest the throne from her father and restore the kingdom to what is was prior to her mother’s death. The second story focuses on her father and his addiction to brin eating, for anyone who has seen addiction up close the descriptions and actions of the king are spot on for any kind of addict. I have enjoyed both of the previous books, but this one really brought the story full circle and did an excellent job tying up the series and story arc. This review is based on listening to the audiobook The Magic Eaters flawlessly narrated by the author.
I have been lucky enough to read them all, so when I got this book I read it slowly because I didn’t want it to end.
Please do yourself a favour and read the set. They are The Frost Eater, The Vine Eater, The Stone Eater. There is also a bonus book called The Seer Sisters. Carol’s genre is young adult fantasy books but I am in my mid 40’s and I want more. I love the world that this is set in.
Allow three days for this PG15 paranormal quest of a band of teenagers to save their planet, Anyari, from the power-hungry desires of the addicted King Ulmin Abrious of Cellerin.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dragons, unicorns & magic, oh my! I have loved the first to books and this conclusion is no different!!
The characters have been most beloved. There was heartbreak, disappointments (for me) and all types of love. I believe that Nora and Krey landed exactly where they needed to be. As for Ovrun & Zeisha, I was very heartbroken. She has healed and I think he will as well.
Nora’s journey to be the best ruler she can be takes us all over the realm and it’s really amazing all that we experience and learn with her. The world building is excellent!! Lol, I wanted to reach out and pet the Unicorns.
All of Carol Beth’s books are very well edited. The Stone Eater was a wonderful conclusion to the trilogy. I urge you to check out ALL of her books!
My star ratings include these 5 elements:
1 story line
1 engaging characters
1 use of world building/descriptions
1 narration or editing
1 the ending
“I was given this free review copy/audiobook at *MY* request and have voluntarily left this review.”
Nora and her friends have been running and hiding, but time is running out – King Ulmun’s reign is quickly turning to one of terror, and he has barricaded himself in a fortress of stone. New allies and revealed secrets about the magic that decimated their world may just hold the key to his defeat. But can she destroy her father’s rule and still stay true to herself? Supremely satisfying conclusion to a series that has played by its own rules from the beginning.
I loved the way so many plot elements circled back and echoed events from the beginning of this series and highlighted just how far these characters have come and how much they have grown. It is rare to have such depth of character development in this large of a cast. The juxtaposition between Krey and King Ulman and their very different paths was so well done too. As with previous books, this one was interspersed with flashbacks that helped round out the current situation.
This book had quite a bit of romance – along the entire spectrum. What stood out to me about the romance in this book though was that the focus was not on the physical attraction (though it did get a bit steamy at times) but on the deeper relationships that the characters have forged through this series and above all on their understanding of themselves and that relationships are a give and take. Also the sometimes brutal honesty, and other times deep vulnerability that healthy relationships require. Lots of love that isn’t romantic too – and the acceptance of all kinds of love. It was a huge theme in this book, even at the crux of Ulman’s story, his descent into madness, and his ultimate fate. Redemption, acceptance, and healing were profound themes in this one. Some characters screwed up – big time. Others came from broken, abusive pasts. But they all became better and stronger together.
This is the third and final book in the Magic Eaters Trilogy. These books must be read in order. They build on each other both chronologically and in depth. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy character driven fantasy with a bit of dystopian sci-fi mixed in and a lot of adrenaline pulsing action. The audio version is narrated by the author who does a wonderful job bringing these books to life. I like hearing where she puts the emphasis and emotion – it adds another wonderful layer of depth to the story.
What a beautiful end to the trilogy. I love Nora’s compassion for her Dad, treating him well in confinement when many would say he doesn’t deserve it. I had actually completely forgotten about Dani so I was very pleased to be reminded of her (the memories flooded back immediately!) and have her story wrapped up. I absolutely loved Ambrel’s letter’s to Dani, they were very insightful to the earlier Ulmin.
A couple of my favorite quotes:
“Congratulations, Krey, you’ve managed to make an otherworldly, magical artifact sound totally disgusting.”
“Every dethroning coalition should have a fire-breathing reptid on their side.”
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Booksprout in exchange for an honest review
4.5 stars
I’m still processing everything that happened in this book. And it was a lot!
This was a great book. Great story, great writing, great cover (I really like all the covers in the series!). I was expecting a great end to a series. I got it. And more!
Interesting, important things to think about, lots of things to highlight and underline, difficult relationships, lovable yet sometimes stupid characters, more dragons, unicorns (I think I highlighted every time they appeared because I was so excited!), more magic, battles and their aftermaths and I could go on for a long while.
The author made some unexpected bold choices and, although it took a while to get used to them, I think I agree the story was better this way. Also, more close to real life in a way because the unexpected happens and not everything that ends in a pretty bow starts that way.
This is probably a little ramble-y but it is because I really liked the book so much.
I listened to most of this in audiobook and read the rest. The book is read by the author and, if you listen to audiobooks, you should give this one a try because it was really well done and gave even more life to the story.
All in all, a very good book in all aspects you could ask for. I’m seriously pondering ordering physical copies of the whole series so I could have them all and have another excuse to read everything again. Also, I’m chastising myself for not having read the prequel yet. I think I just don’t want the series to end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Just as wonderful as the rest of the series. Imaginative, entertaining and enchanting. The characters and world building are top rate in this classic good against evil fantasy series. Delightful reading. I received a free review copy of the audio version of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Where do I begin? So much happened that I’m still reeling from everything. Nora and the gang went on a amazing journey. While their characters may be a bit young they are very mature and level headed characters and I appreciated it. The unique world that the author created was just wonderful to me. The talents that everyone has is just amazing. I loved how Nora and Kray bonded in the library and it was great learning more about gifts. It was a great conclusion and I loved how everything came together nicely. I loved the ending. The narrator did a fabulous job portraying the characters. Easy to listen and follow.
I have been eagerly awaiting this book with dread in my heart!
All fans of serialised books will know what I mean; finally I am reading the conclusion to the Trilogy, which sadly also means sharing the lives of these characters for the last time…
Until I read the books all over again of course.
As with the Vine Eater this book starts off where the last one left off; …and we find Nora and her friends Krey, Ovrun, Zeisha and Sarza celebrating their victory in Deroga with the Trogs.
They make the most of it, because they know they will all too soon have to resume the fight to save Anyari from their crazed ruler: King Ulmin.
The friends have to travel the country, sometimes together or alone to gain allies and knowledge for the final battle. During this time they all continue to discover their strengths, struggle with self-doubt and heartache and ultimately grow in confidence. Existing bonds are deepened and new relationships are formed and the romance gets a little bit steamy, but still stays clean. There is plenty of action and dangerous situations; all interwoven with magic and with mystical beings, which of course means: Osmius is back! Yay!
…and he has rallied some dragon “friends” to the cause …and …psst …he has a secret.
Actually the opening chapter of the book features King Ulmin and we are able to experience the situation from his point of view, witnessing his motivations and how his addiction continues to twist his mind.
All the way through the ‘The Stone Eater’ chapters are interspersed between the regular chapters, giving a dual aspect to round out the whole experience of the opposing parties in the struggle for Anyari.
It also serves to humanise Ulmin and show that he isn’t just an evil person, continues to descend into madness and truly believes in his delusions perpetuated by his growing addiction to the power he gains from eating brain matter.
Also true to the format of the previous books there are short passages at the beginning of each chapter by a girl from Anyari’s past. This time it is a little bit special, because these are letters from Ambrel, Nora’s mother, to her sister Dani. At this point she is a young woman, being sent to meet Ulmin Abrios, the prince of Cellerin, whom she is to marry.
So in addition to the general planet’s history and culture; we find out more about Nora’s family background, especially the young Ulmin through the eyes of Ambrel.
Anyone who has enjoyed the previous two books and has fallen in love with the characters (Osmius! – sorry, I had to) will love the new adventures and the culmination of the story.
I highly recommend The Stone Eater to fans of YA fantasy, but please don’t try to read it without reading the previous two books, it doesn’t work as stand-alone.
I received this book as an advance reader copy and am leaving this review of my own volition.
This has been an outstanding trilogy!
it’s so wonderful watching Nora grow and change from the spoiled princess she was in “The Frost Eater” into the leader she becomes in “The Vine Eater” to the potential Queen in “The Stone Eater” and watching her relationships with Krey and Ovrum develop and mature as well.
Reading as they work together with the people to make a better future and free them from the rule of Nora’s father – it’s inspiring how they have grown and how Nora listens to those around her and grows from it – it’s masterful writing by Carol.
I urge you – read the whole trilogy – the first book is “The Frost Eater” and it’s an amazing world, and such a great story – I’ll refrain from spoiler
*a note* I was given an advance reader copy of the book – however I’m leaving this review because I really did love the book and I want you to enjoy the book as well
What a fantastic story!
From beginning to end, this trilogy has captured my imagination and kept me on the edge of my seat. The gift of story telling, the kind that holds your attention and pulls you in, is not a common one to have. I have envisioned this entire story from beginning to end and I’m astonished at the depth of imagination it took to bring this world alive. If you love fantasy, dragons and magic, this trilogy is not to be missed! And that ending, though! Fantastic!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Can Nora take her father’s crown ,before his dark magic takes her life?
Touring her land on a dragon’s back, Nora builds a vast team of supporters.
But will it be enough will Nora and her friends survive the ordeal.
Great characters ,many twist and turns with lots of action.
Don’t delay get the book and find out.
fabulous series! … if you haven’t read this trilogy, you absolutely need to!!
The Stone Eater brought the Magic Eaters Trilogy to an outstanding conclusion. This is Carol Beth Anderson’s finest book so far. Princess Nora and Krey and Ovrun have come so far since the beginning when they were little more than stowaways trying to find a missing girl. Now they have gathered people from all corners of the kingdom, gained knowledge beyond anything they could have imagined, and are making plans to march on the capital and take down the king. Never has there been a worse time for things to go wrong, but things do, and Nora is left wondering who to trust, who to love, and how to be the ruler she needs to be. But she is amazing and lands exactly where she needs to. It’s a thrilling adventure.
There were dragons. There were unicorns. There were ancient books. There was an epic battle with unheard of military strategies. There was a group of friends working together and trusting each other rather than a lone hero. There was the unification of various factors of the kingdom. And there was a magic-crazed king. This last bit was the hardest part to witness. The king, under the control of his magic addiction, killed indiscriminately and barricaded himself in his palace while controlling dragons and overseers to fight for him. How do you fight against nearly unlimited power? And how could he ever atone for his sins?
I received an ARC from the author and have reviewed it willingly.
I really enjoyed this book, the third in the series! The storyline was well developed, the characters were complex and well developed. The story world was detailed. The writing drew me in and I felt immersed in the story! I would highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received this story as an ARC and am leaving a voluntary review. In this book, Nora and her friends finish their struggle for control of the lands and people with her power-hungry father, the king. The magic contained herein enthralled and enriched my personal reading experience. I have followed the lives, loves and struggles of these characters and watched as they battled, good vs evil to a thrilling conclusion. If you want a series that will capture your full attention and leave you wanting for more, look no further.
ri Mayo’s review Mar 11, 2021 · edit
it was amazing
You know, when you’re picking up the next book in a series, especially when it’s been a year since the last one, it takes a chapter or two to catch back up on the story line, characters, relationships, etc. But boy, once I refreshed my memory, the story took off and I could not put it down, especially the last half of the book.
There’s so much to love and magic, as well as, magical creatures to discover and explore. You really can’t go wrong with dragons and unicorns! I really appreciated that the author allows us to feel love, hate, sadness, heartbreak, happiness, and grief; she doesn’t shy away from the hard stuff. Overall, I can highly recommend this book (and entire series), and not just for YA readers, I’m not young by any stretch.
I did receive a complementary advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review. I look forward to listening to the audiobook as well and anticipate reading many more books by this author in the future.
And can we talk about the cover?!? Not just this book, the whole series! I’m often drawn to books just by looking at the cover and this is definitely one of them! I would pick this one up to read the synopsis for sure.