Stone

By: Finbar Hawkins

Narrated by: Finlay Robertson

A second novel from the bestselling author of Branford Boase-shortlisted and Carnegie-nominated Witch. An engrossing story of fathers and sons, death and grief and unexpected bonds, new and old, forged by dark and benign magic.

On the day of his dad's funeral, Sam finds a strange, black stone which he senses has supernatural power. But that is just the beginning. Stowed in his pocket, the stone increases Sam's strength and speed at a single touch. And he starts seeing things: two girls dancing, a lone figure on a hilltop summoning ravens, walking with wolves...and his dad too. Could this small black stone really help bring back his dad?

Grappling with grief, guilt and an array of untested, otherworldly abilities, Sam's life feels too crowded—as lies, threats and his lightning temper cause chaos. How can he cope with the turmoil in his head and all around him?

©2022 Finbar Hawkins (P)2022 W F Howes

Critic reviews

"A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism." (Anthony McGowan, author of Carnegie-winning Lark on Witch)

"There is real magic here.... Perfect for a dark, stormy night." (Irish Times Weekend)

Different Cultural Ways

I understood from the summary that the young man’s father had died. But I thought the story was going to be more supernatural than it was. This was a great story. I wished most of us Americans had a more cultural way of dealing with death. My Dad died over 10 years ago. I could share the pain confusion anger with this young man. I really miss my Dad. Listening to this story helped me. The reader enhanced my listening to the story.

Wonderful story about grief and magic

A good story about grief and how we process it. The magical element was wonderful but it’s almost as if it was created by him. I liked that it could be either real or not. I saw another reviewer talk about that too. But ultimately it’s a story about letting go and healing. Love the Irish magic.