The Blood Within The Stone is a fabulous debut novel by Australian author TR Thompson. When the Prefects of Redmondis come to Greystone to scout for potential wielders – those with a talent for controlling the mystical welds – they snare young thief Wilt, along with his friend Higgs. Wilt’s affinity with the welds puts him in grave danger in the magical city. Wilt is central to the prophecy of the blood within the stone, and the Nine Sisters recognise the threat he poses to their plan to use that power to cement their rule in Redmondis. If they can’t use him as a tool to achieve their goal, they will destroy him. But the Nine Sisters aren’t the only threat. Others within Redmondis want to claim Wilt’s powers. And if Wilt succeeds in outmanoeuvring his enemies, he still has to do battle with his unique talent because his connection to the welds could consume him.
This story has good pace and the changes in view-point character add to the suspense. Plenty of magic, shape-shifting and intrigue make for an entertaining read.
5 stars