Stone Warrior is a sweeping fantasy tale that follows Thurgan, a grizzled, no-nonsense mercenary with a hidden nobility, as he’s drawn into a web of political scheming, war, and unexpected companionship. The story begins with a deadly power struggle for the throne of Surigard and unfolds through battles, alliances, betrayals, and a quiet yearning for purpose and peace. Along the way, Thurgan finds himself aligned with Lady Erina Pannek, a ruler fighting against imperial injustice, and Aelensha Woods, a sharp-tongued Rodoan girl escaping her past. Together, they march across a world plagued by ambition, bloodshed, and the faint promise of hope.

The writing is gritty, vivid, and often brutal in its honesty. I loved how Christy doesn’t waste time with fluff. The dialogue has real weight, and the pacing keeps the reader on edge without sacrificing worldbuilding. Thurgan especially shines, and not as your typical fantasy hero. He’s rough, sarcastic, and painfully grounded. There’s a kind of stubborn tenderness to him that’s hard not to root for. The emotional core of the story, his reluctant sense of duty and reluctant acceptance of his own goodness, hits surprisingly deep. The battle scenes are raw, fast, and heavy. But it’s the quiet moments—like a cold night in a tent or a shared meal after a bloody fight—that really resonates emotionally.

The book’s depth comes in waves. It’s a long read, and while I enjoyed the prose, some chapters did wander a bit, particularly when the politics got too thick or new names flew at me faster than I could track. What really kept me reading was the way the novel balanced raw masculinity with introspection. It’s a war story, sure, but it’s also about being lost and found, about what it means to fight for something beyond survival. Christy doesn’t moralize, but you can tell there’s heart behind every brutal swing of Thurgan’s axe.

I’d recommend Stone Warrior to fans of grounded epic fantasy who crave more grit than glitter. If you like your heroes scarred, your villains complex, and your battles to feel like they matter, this one’s for you. Especially good for readers who enjoyed The First Law trilogy or The Black Company.

Pages: 252 | ASIN : B0CK7M7PFS