The Weight of the Wishing Stone by Kevin Cox is the first book in the Fates of Galanor series. It is a high fantasy adventure in which Selaina, a young woman unaware of her heritage, is left alone after her friend is murdered and her mother is abducted. She sets out to find her mother. But the world is much bigger and more wicked than she could have imagined. She meets a young widower, Darian, and they search for her mother together. Selaina learns from Myrradin, a magic wielder, that she may be the key to stopping the Iron Flood with the Wishing Stone. Selaina joins a group searching for the Wishing Stone that has the power to stop the Iron Flood from destroying their world. Facing soldiers of the Iron Flood, wild animals, and a wicked enchantress, only the sea serpents know what their fates will be.

Kevin Cox's sword and sorcery fantasy features a group of mismatched heroes out to save their world while also trying to complete their separate quests. The author takes time to relate the background to The Weight of the Wishing Stone, especially the two main characters. He uses a good style, and the pace changes with the events taking place, slowing when there is a time of rest and gaining speed and intensity when a battle is fought or danger threatens the heroes. The characters are well-rounded and show growth throughout the story. The plot is intriguing, with the reader wanting to see what will happen. The author addresses the theme of balance between dark and light, right and wrong, and how perspectives make a difference in how right and wrong are perceived. The concept of the delicate balance between using power for good and the abuse of ultimate power is apparent throughout and gives the reader food for thought.

The Weight of the Wishing Stone by Kevin Cox is an epic fantasy novel set in a land ravaged by war. Imperion Vatreus is consolidating control over everything, including the city of Tathara, which is Rykan's home. The people of Tathara go to war against him, but their efforts are in vain, resulting in many casualties, including the death of Rykan’s father. Consumed by rage and a thirst for vengeance, he escapes in search of allies to help him defeat Vatreus. He meets Garrick, a man burdened with guilt for once serving Vatreus, and Elysia, a female warrior seeking to avenge her people, who fell victim to Vatreus’ tyranny. Together, they encounter magic-wielding individuals and Selaina, a Lith who is searching for her missing mother and is unaware of her mystical heritage. Each character carries their own burdens and motivations, but, together, they form an unlikely alliance to take down Vatreus.

The Weight of the Wishing Stone is the first book in the Fates of Galanor series, setting the stage for a captivating fantasy journey through the enchanted realm of Galanor, where ancient prophecies and powerful artifacts intertwine. Kevin Cox has crafted a world with well-developed lore and intriguing characters. Rykan and Elysia are the main protagonists, and they are compelling figures with different backgrounds but similar drives. The narrative highlights how they forge a deep connection through their shared experiences of unexpected loss. The story also explores how good intentions can lead to unintended consequences, as seen in Garrick's past choices and Vatreus' origins. Themes of power, greed, and ambition are also intricately woven throughout. The ending has jaw-dropping plot twists that took me by surprise. Fortunately, the story is far from over; the adventure has just begun, and I eagerly anticipate how it will unfold in future installments. Overall, this is a fantastic read and a must-have for anyone who loves epic fantasy novels filled with adventure and complex characters.