Review: Kingdom of Sea and Stone by Mara Rutherford

 If you couldn’t get enough of Mara Rutherford’s Crown of Coral and Pearl, never fear- there’s now a second book, Kingdom of Sea and Stone! Reuniting us with sisters Nor and Zadie, this next installment continues to be a unique story in its own right!

I was personally thrilled to learn that there would be a second book, because that meant that I could have more time with Nor and Zadie. Get that extra time, I did indeed. In this second book, we see both Nor and Zadie grow into their characters more, and I loved how this happened. I also loved the interactions between the sisters and it really took a more protective stance in this book against the bad guy, and it made me smile because I love that type of sisterly bond. I like how the bond grows because it’s kind of nice and rather unique to have in a book.

I also loved how the world building was also absolutely superb, and continued to capture me into the world, and I really enjoyed it as a whole. Especially the kingdom that is focused on the sea aspects that really made the first book for me! Tie this in with both the characters and the plot and you have such a great escapist read (for those of us still locked down- i.e. me). The world descriptions, as well as each scene’s descriptions are rather rich! In fact, those descriptions made me feel the different moods within the scenes, and by the end- I was feeling in pain because the characters were. The writing was paced so well that I read this one in no time!

I loved how badass Nor was, trying to save the kingdom from the bad guy (no spoilers on who that is, because I’m definitely no snitch!), and also Talin taking more of a front seat in this one. I also love how there was a little bit of romance in there, but it didn’t take a front seat (sorry fantasy romance lovers!).It was also great to see some rather excellent side characters that added that little extra into the book that I didn’t realise I was missing until I read on! Roan was definitely one of my favourite side characters, although I can’t put my finger on why that’s the case! I also loved how this is a fantasy, but is on the lighter side- something I did enjoy as I don’t see much of this type of book around. 

I was also a big fan of the plot, and some of the morals that were embedded within the book- some of which are really relevant to the real world as is! The twists that came within the pages on my ereader kept me clicking for more.

Overall, an excellent sequel, and something for those looking for something a little bit different in the fantasy genre. I also recommend it to those that like books with siblings, and those that enjoy a kick-ass female main!

I received a copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Rating: 4/5

Note: This review also features on The Nerd Daily!