Book review: The Gift Stone by Bianca Rowena

Bianca Rowena brings you a story which could be straight from Star Wars in The Gift Stone. The Gift Stone is the first book in Bianca Rowena’s The Gifted series. Rita was raised by the temple as a temple girl, but following an encounter with Takano Rynn, leader of the dark army she fed to the obscurity of Central City, where she could be lost to the crowds. Takano had been on a rampage, murdering anyone within the temples, and any who would dare oppose him, all in search of the Gift Stone. It was rumoured it could bring his evil reign to an end, he knew he had to find it before someone else can use it against him. When his path crosses with Rita’s he sees something familiar in her, something he can use to make himself stronger. Fleeing to Central City Rita makes new friends and allies, but the threat is far from over. Both Takano and Dukath are now aware of her, and will stop at nothing to seize her. Women are rarely born with the Gift, and Rita herself does not believe she possesses it. But there are things occurring that even she cannot ignore.

Bianca Rowena has written an entertaining and fantastic fantasy/ science fiction book. I really liked Rita’s character. For such a young woman she carries a lot of weight on her shoulders. From loneliness and knowing she is different, to being fearful of her actions and weaknesses. The Gift Stone will make an excellent addition to any fantasy lovers library. It starts with promise and builds up momentum the deeper you journey through the tale. From surprising allies and hidden secrets, to unlikely friends, betrayal, and danger. Rita makes some difficult decision which shape her character and growth, but also drive the readers attachment to the characters deeper. The Gift Stone has twists and surprises, and an element that will satisfy even the pickiest science fiction and fantasy fans.