If you couldn’t get enough of Mara Rutherford’s Crown of Coral and Pearl, never fear as there’s now a second book, Kingdom of Sea and Stone! Reuniting us with sisters Nor and Zadie, this next instalment continues to be a unique story in its own right!
I was personally thrilled to learn that there would be a second book, because that meant that I could have more time with Nor and Zadie .In this sequel, we see both Nor and Zadie grow into their characters more, and the interactions between the sisters were great, plus it really took a more protective stance in this book against the bad guy, and it made me smile because I love that type of sisterly bond. I like how the bond grows because it’s kind of nice and rather unique to have in a book.
The world building was also absolutely superb, and continued to capture me into the world, especially the kingdom that is focused on the sea aspects that really made the first book for me! Tying this in with both the characters and the plot and you have such a great escapist read (which is needed now more than ever). The world descriptions, as well as each scene’s descriptions are rather rich! In fact, those descriptions made me feel the different moods within the scenes, and by the end, I was feeling in pain because the characters were. The writing was paced so well that I read this one in no time!
I loved how badass Nor was, trying to save the kingdom from the bad guy (no spoilers on who that is), and also Talin taking more of a front seat in this one. There was also a little bit of romance in there, but it didn’t take a front seat. It was also great to see some rather excellent side characters that added that little extra into the book that I didn’t realise I was missing. Roan was definitely one of my favourite side characters, although I can’t put my finger on why that’s the case… I also loved how this is a fantasy, but is on the lighter side, something I did enjoy as I don’t see much of this type of book around.
I was also a big fan of the plot, and some of the morals that were embedded within the book- some of which are really relevant to the real world as is!
Overall, an excellent sequel, and something for those looking for something a little bit different in the fantasy genre. I also recommend it to those that like books with siblings, and those that enjoy a kick-ass female main!
Kingdom of Sea and Stone is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of October 6th 2020.
Will you be picking up Kingdom of Sea and Stone? Tell us in the comments below!
Synopsis | Goodreads
Ever since Nor was forced to go to a nearby kingdom in her sister’s place, she’s wanted nothing more than to return to the place and people she loves. But when her wish comes true, she soon finds herself cast out from both worlds, with a war on the horizon.
As an old enemy resurfaces more powerful than ever, Nor will have to keep the kingdom from falling apart with the help of Prince Talin and Nor’s twin sister, Zadie. There are forces within the world more mysterious than any of them ever guessed—and they’ll need to stay alive long enough to conquer them…
