What do you think?
Rate this book
Memory of Stone #1
Memory of Stone
Finally thriving as a criminal in an infamous rundown city nicknamed The Bottoms, 18-year-old Nyx is forced to leave to rescue her only friend. When she is imprisoned for her damning discoveries she must do everything to regain her freedom, even if that means losing everything she’s ever known.
Loran’s Blade is a mask-wearing commander and a living legend at only eighteen. Coerced into life at court, he finds that not everything is as simple as death on a battlefield, especially when he discovers secrets hidden down dark corridors in court. When the attention of the king lands him on a dishonorable mission, he must decide where his loyalties lie.
When their paths cross, they must discover why they are drawn to each other, or remain enemies.
In a world of magic and buried secrets, there is a thin line between normality and danger.
Loran’s Blade is a mask-wearing commander and a living legend at only eighteen. Coerced into life at court, he finds that not everything is as simple as death on a battlefield, especially when he discovers secrets hidden down dark corridors in court. When the attention of the king lands him on a dishonorable mission, he must decide where his loyalties lie.
When their paths cross, they must discover why they are drawn to each other, or remain enemies.
In a world of magic and buried secrets, there is a thin line between normality and danger.
- GenresFantasy
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2020
6 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Chio Zoe
5books21followersChio Zoe is a writer of fantasy novels and the author of MEMORY OF STONE. She has a youtube channel (Chio Zoe writes) dedicated to teaching writers, book reviews, and book announcements. She also works as a mentor for writers at Write Mentor Spark.
Chio was born in Nigeria where she spends her time writing, designing clothes, and imagining her dream house. She writes a broad array of fantasy inspired by multiple cultures and folklore across the world.
When she isn't working on her books, she is ghostwriting for animations and comic books.
For information on new releases and appearances, follow her on Instagram at chiozoe_
Chio was born in Nigeria where she spends her time writing, designing clothes, and imagining her dream house. She writes a broad array of fantasy inspired by multiple cultures and folklore across the world.
When she isn't working on her books, she is ghostwriting for animations and comic books.
For information on new releases and appearances, follow her on Instagram at chiozoe_
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 12, 2021
Book 5 of 2021
3.5 stars rounded up
Many thanks to Parresia Publishers for my review copy of Memory of Stone in exchange for my impartial review. This review was written voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
It's unlike me to start a review with commentary on the ending, BUT THAT ENDING was just awesome! I loved the twists and turns that led up to the ending, and I love that the author surprised me with that reveal, because I was expecting something else!
Memory of Stone follows Nyx and Loran's Blade (Egan) in their separate journeys in a world filled with magic and secrets. They are on very different parts and even though it's almost impossible for their paths to cross, they end up meeting and being on very opposing sides in a brewing war they know little of.
I got a lot of Six of Crows vibes while reading this book, and the author herself has mentioned that SIx of Crows inspired her to start writing again. Nyx reminded me a lot of Inej, and I loved that she was able to deliver Inej-level action.
Nyx had such a tedious journey in this book and she went through a lot. I feel like the journey is only just beginning, but I believe she's up to the task. Her point of view/chapters focused on her were my favorite to read, as they were more action packed and adventurous. She was one of my favorite characters, as well as Tullia and Gannon.
Egan, on the other hand, annoyed me a lot. I didn't get him, and I didn't care for him much. There were some times I hoped he's stay unharmed, but after a while, I didn't care what happened to him as long as we got some action in the parts of the book focused on him. Most of his most action packed moments were directly tied to Nyx.
I enjoyed the writing and the shifting perspectives in this book. I felt like there were lots of fillers and some places dragged on and on, but the action packed scenes and the last couple of pages made it worthwhile.
The worldbuilding was great, and there were territories, kingdoms, as well as fey territory. I loved the addition of fey, and I enjoyed the time I got to "spend" with the fey. No spoilers, but I'd love to see more romance between THAT fey and my girl Nyx in book 2! Romance didn't really take center stage in this book but I definitely saw some building blocks being laid.
I really enjoyed this one!
3.5 stars rounded up
Many thanks to Parresia Publishers for my review copy of Memory of Stone in exchange for my impartial review. This review was written voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
It's unlike me to start a review with commentary on the ending, BUT THAT ENDING was just awesome! I loved the twists and turns that led up to the ending, and I love that the author surprised me with that reveal, because I was expecting something else!
Memory of Stone follows Nyx and Loran's Blade (Egan) in their separate journeys in a world filled with magic and secrets. They are on very different parts and even though it's almost impossible for their paths to cross, they end up meeting and being on very opposing sides in a brewing war they know little of.
I got a lot of Six of Crows vibes while reading this book, and the author herself has mentioned that SIx of Crows inspired her to start writing again. Nyx reminded me a lot of Inej, and I loved that she was able to deliver Inej-level action.
Nyx had such a tedious journey in this book and she went through a lot. I feel like the journey is only just beginning, but I believe she's up to the task. Her point of view/chapters focused on her were my favorite to read, as they were more action packed and adventurous. She was one of my favorite characters, as well as Tullia and Gannon.
Egan, on the other hand, annoyed me a lot. I didn't get him, and I didn't care for him much. There were some times I hoped he's stay unharmed, but after a while, I didn't care what happened to him as long as we got some action in the parts of the book focused on him. Most of his most action packed moments were directly tied to Nyx.
I enjoyed the writing and the shifting perspectives in this book. I felt like there were lots of fillers and some places dragged on and on, but the action packed scenes and the last couple of pages made it worthwhile.
The worldbuilding was great, and there were territories, kingdoms, as well as fey territory. I loved the addition of fey, and I enjoyed the time I got to "spend" with the fey. No spoilers, but I'd love to see more romance between THAT fey and my girl Nyx in book 2! Romance didn't really take center stage in this book but I definitely saw some building blocks being laid.
I really enjoyed this one!
November 18, 2021
A solid 3.5 stars for this book.
Where to begin. This book is a solid read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend to anyone who enjoys Adventure and Fantasy.
I had fun reading this book and loved getting to know Nyx more and witness her character develop. I loved Felix
One of the things that I truly loved about this book was that Nyx and Felix were just friends; I didn't ship them anyway and was happy that their bond grew in a friendship sense.
Nyx and Gannon however …hm, we'll just see where the story takes us.
I didn't much like the fact that I didn't really get to know Egan. I felt like Nyx got more of the important backstory and development while Egan's felt kind of rushed. .
I hated Vinnie he can go rot and die .
The lore was solid and I can't wait to learn more about it. Although some aspects did seem a bit predictable but that is to be expected.
All in all this is a great book that I will definitely re-read it in the near future.
Kudos to you , I can't wait to read the second one!
Where to begin. This book is a solid read that I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend to anyone who enjoys Adventure and Fantasy.
I had fun reading this book and loved getting to know Nyx more and witness her character develop. I loved Felix
One of the things that I truly loved about this book was that Nyx and Felix were just friends; I didn't ship them anyway and was happy that their bond grew in a friendship sense.
Nyx and Gannon however …hm, we'll just see where the story takes us.
I didn't much like the fact that I didn't really get to know Egan. I felt like Nyx got more of the important backstory and development while Egan's felt kind of rushed. .
I hated Vinnie he can go rot and die .
The lore was solid and I can't wait to learn more about it. Although some aspects did seem a bit predictable but that is to be expected.
All in all this is a great book that I will definitely re-read it in the near future.
Kudos to you , I can't wait to read the second one!
March 16, 2021
Book review - Memory of Stone
By Chio Zoe
This book took me with surprise several times during the read.
It starts out with a really intriguing pre story. Then we move on to get to know the assassin Nyx and the guard Egan. (Also known as Lorcans`s Blade)
These are the two main POV we follow throughout the book.
Nyx reminds me about Celeana in Throne of Glass.
She has an unknown past she does not know much about. She had a rough start to life and has learned all the street art herself in order to survive.
She works for one of the gang lords with her unique stealth abilities.
For Eagan we also get to know how he was known as Lorcan`s blade.
He has a much deeper personality than you first should think. He is struggling to just follow the orders he gets. And he slowly picks up on something odd that is occurring when he is at court with his lord.
We get to know several wonderful side characters.
And I loved how the author describes both the world and the feelings/ perspective of the characters.
But throughout the book the plot has several major turns which blew me away :D
We get to know ancient magic, fey creatures and magical gods/ creatures in an enchanted forest.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait until the next book is out in june this year.
Check out the authors page if you have not heard about this book :)
Four stars
By Chio Zoe
This book took me with surprise several times during the read.
It starts out with a really intriguing pre story. Then we move on to get to know the assassin Nyx and the guard Egan. (Also known as Lorcans`s Blade)
These are the two main POV we follow throughout the book.
Nyx reminds me about Celeana in Throne of Glass.
She has an unknown past she does not know much about. She had a rough start to life and has learned all the street art herself in order to survive.
She works for one of the gang lords with her unique stealth abilities.
For Eagan we also get to know how he was known as Lorcan`s blade.
He has a much deeper personality than you first should think. He is struggling to just follow the orders he gets. And he slowly picks up on something odd that is occurring when he is at court with his lord.
We get to know several wonderful side characters.
And I loved how the author describes both the world and the feelings/ perspective of the characters.
But throughout the book the plot has several major turns which blew me away :D
We get to know ancient magic, fey creatures and magical gods/ creatures in an enchanted forest.
I really enjoyed this book and can't wait until the next book is out in june this year.
Check out the authors page if you have not heard about this book :)
Four stars
August 21, 2021
this book truly captivated my interest. I love and admire Chio Zoe's writing. The world building was well described and the conflict points within the story was introduced neatly too.
I am very much curious about Egan at the very beginning. His character did not disappoint, he was amazing in his own way. I sensed a found family trope between Felix and Nyx, afterall this book started with Nyx saving Felix. I love how they took care of each other throughout their journey. Halfway of the book, there are some revelations and it surprised me. All I can say is that there is something more about Nyx's character and I already have a feeling that it will be amazing but challenging. Nyx's character is strong and beyond inspiring especially when it comes to fighting and being strong.
I would really recommend this book if you love the Fantasy Genre!
I am very much curious about Egan at the very beginning. His character did not disappoint, he was amazing in his own way. I sensed a found family trope between Felix and Nyx, afterall this book started with Nyx saving Felix. I love how they took care of each other throughout their journey. Halfway of the book, there are some revelations and it surprised me. All I can say is that there is something more about Nyx's character and I already have a feeling that it will be amazing but challenging. Nyx's character is strong and beyond inspiring especially when it comes to fighting and being strong.
I would really recommend this book if you love the Fantasy Genre!
April 19, 2025
This book was an easy fantasy read. i completely enjoyed this book and the world building following the life of the assasin Nyx to the mysterious guard Egan also known as Lorans blade.
I liked the twists and turns that followed the story and the strong sense of duty that Nyx felt that compelled her to save her friend Felix.
The introduction of Gannon to the story was something that I wasn't expecting but I can already sense the sparks between Nyx and himself.
This book intrioduced me to the beautiful world of the mythical Fey people.
I liked the twists and turns that followed the story and the strong sense of duty that Nyx felt that compelled her to save her friend Felix.
The introduction of Gannon to the story was something that I wasn't expecting but I can already sense the sparks between Nyx and himself.
This book intrioduced me to the beautiful world of the mythical Fey people.
June 9, 2021
Chio Zoe weaves a spellbinding tale. Memory Of Stone is my first entry into the fantasy genre scene and definitely a retainer. It’s a 4.5 ⭐️ read, one I definitely recommend.
August 21, 2021
𝓜𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓻𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓢𝓽𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓫𝔂 𝓒𝓱𝓲𝓸 𝓩𝓸𝓮
Memory of Stone is a dangerous path of abandoned youth, forbidden magic, and brawls with destiny. Nyx, a famous death hound of the number one gang lord. Loran’s Blade, a mysterious commander known to everyone, is hidden in a mask including his name. Separately, they discover the darkest corners of the kingdom which will bring them together. They must decide if they’re enemies or allies in this treacherous journey.
𝓦𝓻𝓲𝓲𝓷𝓰
Two words. Short chapters. Chio nailed the short chapters and multiple point of views. I can easily get annoyed with some multiple point of views because it can be too long or dragging. Nyx and Egan’s chapters made me intrigue every time. Also, it was not too descriptive which I love! I don’t like descriptive books. Yes, it adds to the details and what-not but sometimes it’s too much plus, you can’t understand some of the jargon. So if you’re like me, check this one out.
𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓮𝓻𝓼
Nyx is as solid as a rock on the outside but a super softie for those she cares about. I’ll stay the same for Egan but you’ll see how much he adores for his comrades. Not gonna lie, I think he’s a cinnamon roll deep down. Both their childhoods were tragic so I kinda understand. Also� I need to set my ships straight. I don’t wanna get heartbroken! If you read it, you know what I mean!
𝓟𝓵
I wasn’t expecting this magic stuff in this book. I read the synopsis but I seriously didn’t expect magic� and fey. Some of the things I love which are included in this book:
Badass female lead
Mysterious male lead (?)
Fey/Fae
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Magic system
Basically in love with this. Also the revelations! From Nyx and the ships� I’m super lost which is which� Anyway, the magic system wasn’t confusing but I’m hoping for more details in the second book. I don’t feel like anything was forced and everything just fits perfectly.
What I do hope this book had was� a map. My whole family knows my love for maps so this is what I expected. Also, if the end game is who I think it is, more interaction, please!
𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼
I seriously don’t understand why I took so long with this review. This is like a combination of my favorite books and I’ve only ever said this about another independent novel. I would love to see more and how the story and characters progress. Please give this book a try. You wouldn’t find it boring or dragging because the first chapter is already intense.
Memory of Stone is a dangerous path of abandoned youth, forbidden magic, and brawls with destiny. Nyx, a famous death hound of the number one gang lord. Loran’s Blade, a mysterious commander known to everyone, is hidden in a mask including his name. Separately, they discover the darkest corners of the kingdom which will bring them together. They must decide if they’re enemies or allies in this treacherous journey.
𝓦𝓻𝓲𝓲𝓷𝓰
Two words. Short chapters. Chio nailed the short chapters and multiple point of views. I can easily get annoyed with some multiple point of views because it can be too long or dragging. Nyx and Egan’s chapters made me intrigue every time. Also, it was not too descriptive which I love! I don’t like descriptive books. Yes, it adds to the details and what-not but sometimes it’s too much plus, you can’t understand some of the jargon. So if you’re like me, check this one out.
𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓮𝓻𝓼
Nyx is as solid as a rock on the outside but a super softie for those she cares about. I’ll stay the same for Egan but you’ll see how much he adores for his comrades. Not gonna lie, I think he’s a cinnamon roll deep down. Both their childhoods were tragic so I kinda understand. Also� I need to set my ships straight. I don’t wanna get heartbroken! If you read it, you know what I mean!
𝓟𝓵
I wasn’t expecting this magic stuff in this book. I read the synopsis but I seriously didn’t expect magic� and fey. Some of the things I love which are included in this book:
Badass female lead
Mysterious male lead (?)
Fey/Fae
Enemies to lovers
Found family
Magic system
Basically in love with this. Also the revelations! From Nyx and the ships� I’m super lost which is which� Anyway, the magic system wasn’t confusing but I’m hoping for more details in the second book. I don’t feel like anything was forced and everything just fits perfectly.
What I do hope this book had was� a map. My whole family knows my love for maps so this is what I expected. Also, if the end game is who I think it is, more interaction, please!
𝓕𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓵 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼
I seriously don’t understand why I took so long with this review. This is like a combination of my favorite books and I’ve only ever said this about another independent novel. I would love to see more and how the story and characters progress. Please give this book a try. You wouldn’t find it boring or dragging because the first chapter is already intense.
September 2, 2021
Nyx a 18-year-old criminal living in The Bottoms is forced to make a hasty decision of rescuing her magic wielding best friend- Felix- when he got captured.
That decision not only cost her almost her life but turned her master and people against her. With betrayal heavy in her heart, she and Felix are on the run for their lives
For 200 pages I really really loved Nyx, she is a badass who isn't afraid to take anybody on and fight her way through anything. But then she started to seem more like a child after, she was quite unreasonable, stubborn and angry at Gannon - a Fey who saved her and Felix when she was on the brink of death, and was very judgemental. For someone who got judged and hated I hoped she would understand what it at least felt like.
However I love that the book is fast paced and has everything I want in a fantasy novel, I almost finished it in one sitting. Nigerian writers giving us top tier fantasy is something I live for.
That decision not only cost her almost her life but turned her master and people against her. With betrayal heavy in her heart, she and Felix are on the run for their lives
For 200 pages I really really loved Nyx, she is a badass who isn't afraid to take anybody on and fight her way through anything. But then she started to seem more like a child after, she was quite unreasonable, stubborn and angry at Gannon - a Fey who saved her and Felix when she was on the brink of death, and was very judgemental. For someone who got judged and hated I hoped she would understand what it at least felt like.
However I love that the book is fast paced and has everything I want in a fantasy novel, I almost finished it in one sitting. Nigerian writers giving us top tier fantasy is something I live for.
June 16, 2020
This marked my first official fantasy novel experience and I was exceedingly impressed and absolutely captivated. Memory of stone revolves around Nyx the lead female character and Egan, (my favorite character), a guard to the king as they embark on their personal journeys in very separate parts of their kingdom and yet end up with the discovery that somehow their worlds are actually intertwined.
I loved how captivating the book was and how it kept me enthralled till the very last page. My least favorite thing about the book is that there is currently no sequel to it and I have to wait. Lol. Other than that it was a great book and I’d rate it a solid 5/5.
I started off reading this book feeling skeptical as to whether I’d really enjoy fantasy novels and the outcome was positive. Hence I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves to read, especially my fellow fiction lovers.
June 21, 2020
This was my first fantasy book and I didn’t know what to expect. I read it all in a day while I was sick and supposed to be resting. I could not stop reading. It was so Captivating and I pride myself as someone that knows what will happen next when it comes to books and movies but sis. I was surprised and in a good way. I love The characters, Egan is my crush🙈 the characters were all striking and had their own stories and it all tied down to make this book. I am going to read again and will definitely be reading more of her books. I’m a fan!
September 10, 2020
The book was totally amazing, kept me wanting more.
The introductory paragraph did an amazing insight, piqued my interest in the book ,although there were a few hitches everything else was superb. Great storyline, standard theme and of course something movie worthy for viewers who love fantasy.
The concluding chapter was kind of vague, like a loose set keeping the reader guessing if there’ll be a book 2.
I would love a spin-off for just Gannon and Nyx they seem to have a chemistry but are conflicted.
But in all the book was superb
The introductory paragraph did an amazing insight, piqued my interest in the book ,although there were a few hitches everything else was superb. Great storyline, standard theme and of course something movie worthy for viewers who love fantasy.
The concluding chapter was kind of vague, like a loose set keeping the reader guessing if there’ll be a book 2.
I would love a spin-off for just Gannon and Nyx they seem to have a chemistry but are conflicted.
But in all the book was superb
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2020
Memory of stone is one of the most thrilling books I've ever set my eyes on, I love the character Nyx as a role model showing me I am strong only if I believe it.
When I was three pages to the end I was PANICKED like only three pages for all that's to happen to happen? Then I was killed with the suspense at the end ....wow, I can't wait for the sequel. I LOVE it
When I was three pages to the end I was PANICKED like only three pages for all that's to happen to happen? Then I was killed with the suspense at the end ....wow, I can't wait for the sequel. I LOVE it
July 15, 2020
I started on this book a while back but got ridiculously busy and had to start over weeks later. Having read quite a number of fantasy novels, I must say that this one ranks pretty high. It captures your attention with the right amount of mystery and wit, and keeps you curious about what happens next. I literally cannot wait for the next book. 5/5 from me!
June 18, 2020
It is a very intriguing read and would definitely have a second go at it. Can’t wait for more from this lovely series. The fonts used in writing the book are pretty impressive too! I wish I could spill a little lol.... I will just let you all enjoy reading it.
April 22, 2020
Really enjoyed the book and can’t wait for the rest of the series! I won’t give away any spoilers, lol.
September 8, 2020
A satisfying read. I liked the way the story was told. It is one of the best fantasy fiction novels I have read this year. Highly recommend for individuals who like to read about adventure and magic.
June 2, 2021
For me to finish a book in just 2 days (unusual of me) means that this book really did me good. I really did enjoy every bit of it; the characters; the story line; the magic; the fighting scenes; i really had fun reading this.
Nyx, the MC is stubborn yet brave and strong character and I Stan. She went through tough hurdles growing up and through her journey in this book. Chio Zoe did well in developing Nyx’s character and every other character and how real I felt Nyx’s character was (excluding the magical element) thus, being a loyal friend and mistrust due to what she’s being through. At this point, you already know who my fav character is aside Gannon and Tullia.
Egan, the Co-Mc on the other hand was not an appealing character to me. He made some silly decisions that I kept wondering when he would stop putting himself in trouble. Like it was clear that you were a target or they did not like him.
I loved the writing style and how the story switches between Nyx and Egan. It was refreshing and fun reading it. The worldbuilding was absolutely great. My favourite territory, obviously if you’ve read it is the Fey Territory.
I feel Nyx is going to go through a lot🥶 looking at how the part 1 ended and I can’t wait to get my hands on part 2 (I’m sensing a Gannon and Nyx ship😍)
I highly recommend to any fantasy lover.
Nyx, the MC is stubborn yet brave and strong character and I Stan. She went through tough hurdles growing up and through her journey in this book. Chio Zoe did well in developing Nyx’s character and every other character and how real I felt Nyx’s character was (excluding the magical element) thus, being a loyal friend and mistrust due to what she’s being through. At this point, you already know who my fav character is aside Gannon and Tullia.
Egan, the Co-Mc on the other hand was not an appealing character to me. He made some silly decisions that I kept wondering when he would stop putting himself in trouble. Like it was clear that you were a target or they did not like him.
I loved the writing style and how the story switches between Nyx and Egan. It was refreshing and fun reading it. The worldbuilding was absolutely great. My favourite territory, obviously if you’ve read it is the Fey Territory.
I feel Nyx is going to go through a lot🥶 looking at how the part 1 ended and I can’t wait to get my hands on part 2 (I’m sensing a Gannon and Nyx ship😍)
I highly recommend to any fantasy lover.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.