—For readers who liked . . .:Radiance: A Novel and the rest of the Wraith Kings trilogy by Grace Draven, or the When Women Were Warriors series by Catherine M. Wilson.
In today's polarized political climate, it can often feel like Americans are irreconcilably divided. This story can offer hope in such times, with its message that adversity can be overcome by building connection, community, and trust (similar to the recent Disney hit Raya and the Last Dragon).
According to NPD BookScan, in the first quarter of 2021, US adult fiction sales were up 35 percent over 2020, with 39 million units sold in the first quarter, a jump of 10 million units over 2020's first quarter.
Patriarchy overwhelms the fantasy genre; most fantasy books feature male protagonists, and female heroes are rare. This novel features multiple strong, well-developed female characters, a female hero, a culture governed through matriarchal rule, and a Goddess (rather than a God).
Industry Reviews
"Catherine Raphael is a writer of singular voice and vision. The world she builds is vividly imagined and populated by unforgettable, archetypal characters. Raphael's intelligence, intuition, and masterful storytelling are on full display in what is ultimately a story about connectedness: to nature, to the universe, and to each other. A stunning debut, Journey to the Heart Stone will hold you in its grip, page by compelling page."
-Kathy Fish, author of Wild Life: Collected Works
"Catherine Raphael weaves a soul-nourishing tale filled with ancient magic time has forgotten. I looked forward to escaping every evening into the rich landscape she created. Journey to the Heart Stone is a beautiful story reminding us that our own lives are a journey back to the heart of what truly matters in life-love. A very enjoyable read!"
-Stacey L. Tucker, author of The Equal Night trilogy
"Journey to the Heart Stone is an epic fantasy full of warmth, insight, humor, and intrigue. Raphael takes a classic premise-a single hero who must rise up to save the world-and turns it on its head. Raphael delivers both a novel bound to delight lifelong fantasy readers as well as a story that feels refreshingly new. Don't miss Raphael's beautiful debut novel and all the wit, wisdom, and adventure within."
-K.C. Mead-Brewer, author of The Hidden People
"Catherine Raphael's Journey to the Heart Stone is richly imagined from beginning to end. The reader is transported to a land where peace has reigned for generations through matriarchal rule. When that peace is unbalanced, it will take heroes and heroines to bring three long-lost communities back together. A wondrous and magical read."
-Gail Tsukiyama, author of The Samurai's Garden