A Stone of Destiny and Despair

The Levanthria Series, Book 4

By: A.P Beswick

Narrated by: Aaron Smith

Once a humble priest, now a tormented wanderer. Will Jordell Torvin succumb to his own corruption, or will he wield a divine destiny to save his world from despair?

Once a distinguished priest serving in the grand temple of Askela, Jordell Torvin now walks a very different path. Haunted by a vision of a sword that holds the power to prevent a catastrophic war, he has spent the last three years in pursuit of this elusive artifact, even as his magic use subjects him to a creeping corruption that is slowly eating him alive.

After rescuing a gravely injured Barbaraq, Jordell, alongside his ally Laith, makes his way back to the Forest of Opiya, hoping to reunite with old comrades. But the tranquillity of their former camp is shattered, embroiled in a brewing conflict with the mysterious fae who have emerged from the depths of the forest.

With every use of his magic, the corruption gnawing at Jordell grows stronger. And as the realm of Levanthria teeters on the edge of ruin, Jordell faces an almost insurmountable challenge. He must find the prophesied sword, bring peace to the warring factions, and halt his own decay—all while the fate of Levanthria is in jeopardy.

A Stone Of Destiny And Despair is the heart-pounding fourth book in the Tales of Levanthria fantasy-retelling series. If you delight in immersive world-building, multifaceted characters, and relentless quests, then you’ll be enthralled by A.P Beswick's captivating tale."

©2023 A.P Beswick Publications (P)2023 A.P Beswick

Great read(Spoilers)

If you've made it this far u probably already enjoy the series but this one was especially conflicting, after the first story of course. The story does a great job at showing how different perspectives can lead to both parties feeling justified in their actions and a violent conflict being justified by both sides. One thing that confused me, Now from this point it will be spoilers, I usually just look at reviews for a general approval and don't read them as to not spoil the story. Once I'm done I read the reviews to see people's different opinions and thought on it, that is how I write my reviews. So, I don't understand how Lek is working for Morgana. In the first book I assumed he was under mind control via magic. The third book essentially confirmed my theory but then in this story Lek makes a return but appears to be under his own free will. So, did he actually join Morgana in the first book or is he still under some sort of spell? They hinted that he was still being controlled by describing his face but that may have just been character development. Morgana controlling other people is limited and once she loses control they regain their mind so it can't be that. I thought maybe another mage was going it but again it isn't revealed and doesn't seem possible. IDK, but the story was great. I can see everyone's point for fighting and am still hoping something will change so I can actually support one party. I despise Vireo, if he didn't beat Orjan after he paid his debt off perhaps he wouldn't be in such a poor state. Orjan is also responsible for not remaining resolute and running away from his shame but he did not deserve that beatdown. Then, most of the evil that has befallen everyone wouldn't have happened if Vireo didn't sleep and steal Jared's wife. Jareb cared for her and loved her but was distraught at having to tax the people so heavily. He recognized in his stress he had neglected his wife and sought to give her the attention she wanted. instead she cheated on him and slept with Vireo and tried to run away. Not sure how divorce works in this world but cheating is not justified, maybe she should have said something or expressed her desire to separate, something to let Jareb know the love is not mutual. Instead he is broken then manipulated by Morgana. I thought Morgana was perhaps redeemable after Orjan but her torture of the fairies is too much. Her killing of political opponents is too much, I don't like her but neither Jareb. I don't particularly like Jordell as he is somewhat pompous such as not taking a fruit because "only take what you have put in" as if you could simply conjure seeds to plant, you have to take to make. Regardless, he is truly one of the most righteous characters along with Lathe. I guess I don't feel as connected to Lathe or Jordell because there was no real character development in them. No detailed past and a relatively shallow delve into their thoughts. I'd like to hear about what Jordell witnessed of Morgana in the temple or what happened to Lathe before he was taken in by Orjan and what happened after, just before meeting Vireo in the forest. I also hope to later learn of how "Ulrik" killed the king.

Another great addition to the series

An epic quest? Check ☑
Adventure? Check ☑
Magic? Check ☑
Meeting old friends? Check ☑
New companions joining? Check ☑
Great battles? Check ☑
What more do you need for a story that keeps adding to a great series. I can't wait to see how this series will end, in this world that A. P. Beswick is building.

Mysterious and unexpected

I was intrigued by the viewpoint of Jorrel. I thought having a mages inner thoughts was very fascinating. And the ending with the sword was something I was not expecting at all. Well done!

Great series

Great twist awesome story lines. Character development is getting better with each book this by far is one of the better.

love this series

nothing like having a ending that makes you wanting to know what happens next.

Love this series !

Best one yet ! Can’t wait for next installment! Each book leaves you wanting the next one right away.

I can’t wait for Book 5!

Beswick does such a great job weaving a story and a world and intertwining complex characters with such relatable emotions. Aaron Smith is a master-class reader who brings every character to life! It’s like watching a movie in my head.

This series just keeps getting better

I love how this book brought together so many pieces of the previous titles. The performances are top notch throughout the series. Wish someone would pick this up for tv production!

Out of the park

I’m glad the Author changed his narrative style. Much easier to follow instead of staying dedicated to a solo character per chapter. I hope they revise the series & bring it up to its full potential.
Great job on this one

Great story

Very well written story. Lots of great content while not overwhelming you with unnecessary details.