"It sounds awful when I say it out loud."
"True things often do."

Oh, Bartholomew, how I wish I had a gargoyle of my own. The humour that is infused throughout this story, from the mouth of the gargoyle, made me wish the story would never end. He is worthy of Disney Princess sidekick status, worthy of a story all his own. What a wonderful character.

Do not go into this book with the Shepherd King duology in mind and heart. Go into it with trust in Rachel Gillig, that she has written yet another story worthy of your love and devotion. I was enthralled.

However, upon finishing, I have my theory on where book two will take us. Much like in the Shepherd King duology, where book one focuses on Elspeth and book teo on Elm, I suspect that in this Stonewater Kingdom duology we have just seen book one centered on Six, and I think, or rather, hope, book two will be centered on Rory.

To create two separate magical worlds, two separate magic systems, Rachel Gillig has proven herself through creativity and wit. This story left me entertained, inspired, impassioned, and breathless. I fell in love with the characters, heard their voices, felt their emotions, and believed in their mission. I cannot wait for book two.