Book Review: 'The Bleeding Stone' by Joseph John Lee
Reviewer: Michael Vadney
The Bleeding Stone is Joseph John Lee's debut novel. This fantasy tale begins strong with a deep dive into family drama that skillfully establishes the backdrop and motivations of the characters before moving on to the central conflict. Lee's approach to characterization is commendable, as each character is distinct and interesting, contributing to a rich and immersive narrative.
One of the novel's notable strengths is its world-building. Lee has created a vivid and compelling universe that serves as an excellent foundation for the story. The magic system and political landscape give the impression of intricate design without telling the reader the recipe, adding layers of depth and intrigue. This careful construction of the world helps ground the reader, making the fantastical elements feel real and consequential.
However, the structure of the novel presents a double-edged sword. The narrative frequently jumps around the timeline, which has both positive and negative effects in my opinion. On the one hand, these jumps create a sense of tension, as readers are aware that certain characters will survive to appear in future timelines despite their actions in the “present.” This knowledge adds a layer of dramatic irony, as we watch the characters struggle, knowing they are destined to fail to some degree. On the other hand, this same structure can detract from the suspense, as it sometimes feels like the ending is given away or that the story is steering towards a predictable conclusion. It left me with mixed feelings about the concept execution that I have still been unable to resolve weeks later.
Another point of contention is the book's role within the larger series. The Bleeding Stone often feels more like a prologue rather than a standalone novel. Much of the narrative is dedicated to setting up future events, which can be both a strength and a weakness. For readers who enjoy a slow-burn, detailed setup, this can be satisfying. However, those looking for an immediate payoff might find the conclusion lacking in resolution. The book ends with the feeling that it is just the beginning, an inciting incident for the larger story yet to come. For some readers, this will be an exciting and perfect start to the series, but I was left wondering about the novel's conclusion
Despite these structural critiques, Lee's prose is a highlight. The writing is clean, polished, and, at times, beautifully poetic. Given the level of craftsmanship displayed, it's hard to believe this is a debut novel. The dialogue is sharp, with a good balance of wit and seriousness that suits the tone of the story. The pacing, while slow at times, allows for thorough character development and exploration of the novel's themes.
The Bleeding Stone is a promising start to what appears to be a compelling series. While the structure and pacing may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate detailed world-building, complex characters, and a slow-burn narrative will find much to enjoy. The novel sets up numerous intriguing plot threads and character arcs, leaving readers curious about how the story will unfold in future installments. Despite my reservations I am eager to see where the series goes next.
Michael Vadney is the host of the Author Adjacent podcast.
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