Reviews

Last Stand of the Stone Fist by Michael R. Miller

dottienic123's review against another edition

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dark sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

rowdyplayer1's review

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adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

wraskai's review

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4.25

This was such a great novella. It gives some essential backstory and breaks your heart at the same time. I started the second book in the series immediately after finishing this. 

everesto's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

I quite enjoyed getting to know more of brodes backstory. At first I wasn't the biggest fan of Peter Kenny as the narrator in ascendant but I REALLY liked him in the novella, he had so much emotion in his voice, especially at the end. I really feel a lot more for brode now.

debyik's review

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adventurous emotional tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I loved this story! I’m a bit of a sucker for backstories and getting more information on what made some of my favorite characters who they are and this book delivered. The emotional impact of this story is powerful. 

This book is light on world-building and focuses more on the characters while giving you a taste of the magic system. You can read this book without having read any of the other books in the series and not miss out on too much, but you do get an even bigger impact when reading it along with the rest of the series. 

kayshiddenshelf's review against another edition

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5.0

5/5 Stars

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A pinch of magic, compelling character work, epic action, and a wallop of emotional damage. The Last Stand of the Stone Fist was more than I could have hoped for.

After reading Ascendant by Michael R. Miller, I came away with a favourite character named Brode. You can imagine my excitement when I realized the author had written a novella focused on this character and their past.

Before digging into my review of this novella, I’d recommend reading this AFTER Ascendant, Book One in the Songs of Chaos Series. As this novella delves into the past of a character featured within Ascendant, you’ll get the best experience by reading the Last Stand of the Stone Fist afterwards.

Now, back to the review!

How Michael R. Miller delves into Brode’s character work was skillful. Weaving in threads from Ascendant and expanding on a past that sits heavy in Brode’s heart, made for a compelling read. His personal struggles, the difficult choices he’s faced with, the bonds he’s forged are tested, and who he is vs. The Order’s expectations were all well explored. Not only that, but they seamlessly blend with the themes and story of Ascendant, showcasing careful plotting and subtle character work.

This novella only deepened my love of Brode’s character and built onto his arc beautifully. There’s also plenty of action through war, high stakes, creatures such as the scourge and of course dragons.

In addition to reading the physical copy, I also listened to the free audiobook (available through the authors newsletter) and the performance from Peter Kenny was just as wonderful as Ascendant.

Despite knowing what type of backstory awaited me, I was still not emotionally prepared. From heartbreak to self discovery, the Last Stand of the Stone Fist is a great novella and expansion in the Songs of Chaos series.

the_dragon_reread's review

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adventurous emotional inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

stacey_unchecked's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging emotional tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

Although this isn't long, it's a wonderfuy full novella. Dragons, riders, the scourge and magic! Battles and loss but hope too. Peter Kenny as the narrator, is wonderful. A must listen (or read) I'm excited to read more from Michael R. Miller!

greenling's review

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adventurous emotional sad fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

cadmanreads's review

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I enjoyed this one as I'm a sucker for animal companion stories especially when it's a dragon!
The relationships reminded me very much of the Winnowing Flame trilogy, which I love.

I've not read any of the rest of the series and I'm aware that many people say you should read it after book 1. I wanted to try out the series before I committed to buying them and thankfully the author provides the ebook and audiobook free of charge on his mailing list!

After reading this book, I can safely say I want to read the rest of the series.