Stone of Doubt is a captivating blend of modern life, gothic aesthetics, and magical realism. The story follows Evie MacDougall, a goth-leaning recent graduate navigating her Fae heritage, familial expectations, and a tantalizing mix of romantic entanglements and supernatural mysteries. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Edinburgh and the mystical Fae realm, this novel is as much about self-discovery as it is about magical intrigue.

From the outset, Izard weaves an immersive narrative with a mix of relatable internal struggles and grand magical adventures. The opening chapter struck a chord with me—Evie’s self-doubt as she walks the graduation stage while scheming a mischievous magical prank with her twin brother, Ewan, is charming. The interplay between mundane moments, like navigating family relationships, and the extraordinary—the Fae powers that Evie and her family possess—kept me hooked. I appreciated how Izard seamlessly integrates these elements to set up a story that’s as much about Evie’s inner world as it is about the external stakes of magical stones and ancient rivalries.

The writing style is vibrant and layered with emotion. One standout scene for me was Evie’s encounter with the ghost child searching for her doll during the Vaults Vigils. The mix of melancholy and warmth in that moment was palpable, showing Evie’s gift for empathy despite her frustration at not being able to capture photographic proof of ghosts. On the flip side, the budding relationship between Evie and Manix felt a bit rushed to me. Manix’s mysterious allure is evident, but some of his dialogue and interactions came across as theatrical, making it harder for me to root for their connection compared to the nostalgic and bittersweet dynamic Evie shares with her Fae love, Aodhán.

What truly shines in Stone of Doubt is the exploration of familial bonds and the legacy of the MacDougall family’s Fae ties. The scenes where Evie and Ewan bicker, support each other, and share mind-speaking powers add a delightful touch of sibling camaraderie. Their playful dynamic contrasts beautifully with the heavier themes of duty and sacrifice. The lore surrounding the Stones of Iona is another highlight, though I wished for more detailed explanations in certain sections. For instance, the Stone of Doubt’s significance felt slightly underdeveloped compared to the emotional weight carried by the family’s previous quests.

By the end, I found myself fully invested in Evie’s journey. Izard crafts a satisfying conclusion that balances closure with the promise of future adventures. Stone of Doubt is an evocative and imaginative story that will appeal to fans of magical realism, Scottish folklore, and character-driven narratives. If you enjoy books that mix moody atmospheres with heartfelt explorations of identity, this one’s for you.

Pages: 187 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DSGBDMRL