The Stone of Kings

Shea McIntosh
Ford
Genre: 
Young Adult

HISTORICAL/FANTASY:  Past and present collide in “The Stone of Kings” by Shea McIntosh Ford. Set initially in 17th- century Ireland, rambunctious, curious twelve-year-old Ardan finds himself drawn to all things fae—and that curiosity often gets him into a ton of trouble, especially with his guardian, Bresal. When legendary musician Turlough O’Carolan pays the wise man Bresal a visit, dragging along his charge Thomas, things get a little hairy. Happening upon an enchanted book of spells, the pair soon find themselves soaring through time to a strange and totally unfamiliar place—their home in Ireland, but three hundred years later. When unfamiliarity leads the two into trouble and binds them to an unsuspecting nurse named Hannah, the duo—make that trio—must battle against the authorities and the magic which may bar them from their proper time and place forever. 

Beautifully crafted and lush with historical context, “The Stone of Kings” is an enjoyable read for most readers, even those who are unfamiliar with the numerous references throughout the novel. The story offers a number of different perspectives and switches between present day and Bresal and Turlough’s time and place. Although at times the transition can seem abrupt and sometimes disjointed, overall there is good forward momentum within the story. The romantic interest between Thomas and Hannah seems a bit contrived at times, and does not offer much to the overall plot, yet their story is sweet. “The Stone of Kings” is an interesting, unique read with a light-hearted and whimsical plot that many will enjoy.  

Mia Francis