Journey to the Fringe by Kelli Swofford Nielsen

I have an ARC to giveaway! Kelli was featured on LDSWBR's Countdown to Summer yesterday. Lots of stuff being given away there too.

Stone Mage Wars, Book 1: Journey to the Fringe

Author: Kelli Swofford Nielsen

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Published: May 2012

ISBN: 978-1-60908-852-1

FTC FYI: Review Copy

Paperback: 368 pages

Goodreads Summary:  Long ago, Stone Mages were revered in Lyria. They were men and women who could use powerful tradestones to harness their unique gifts of wind, rain, and earth to help those around them. But war with the Southern realm has threatened the mages with extinction. The truth about the tradestones has been lost, and the remaining magic is dwindling. When Princess Ivy, the beloved daughter of the king, is abducted, it seems that all hope for Lyria is lost as well. But when an unlikely group of loyal subjects embarks on a dangerous journey to the far-distant Fringe, the hope of restoring crown and kingdom is renewed. Among the group is Simon, a fool with wisdom beyond his years; Gilda, a nonmagical witch; Burr, a young thief; and Merrick, a jaded sea captain. Their quest will test their courage, their strength, and their friendship. But at the Fringe, they encounter a truth that will change everything they thought they knew about themselves, and this small band of heroes must embrace the power that is their birthright and stand together as Stone Mages of Lyria.


Review


This book had me hooked from page 1.  I loved the story, and the characters.  I really enjoyed the point of view changes.  It kept me wanting more, and left me wondering what was going to happen, so I would read more and more.  The POV changes also kept the story going, and kept it very exciting.  My favorite characters were Simon, Princess Ivy, and Princess Mara.  Each character is unique and a few have some secrets.  There is tons of action, and suspense.  I loved the creative way the author used the stones to harness their gifts. 


4 out of 5 stars.  Great start to series from the author.

DESERET BOOK / AMAZON 

I am giving away an ARC copy of Journey to the Fringe. Just leave a thoughtful comment below. Following my blog is not required, but if you have a second, I would appreciate it.

Contest ends Wednesday the 27th.

Also check out LDSWBR's Countdown to Summer 2012. Lots of prices to giveaway, plus a $25.00 Amazon gift card.