TSR Code:

'Accosted by bullies on a forest trail, Aeron had no way of knowing that the confrontation would change his life forever. Accused of crime for which he bears no blame, he is pursued deep into the forests of the Maerchwood.   First rescued, and then tutored, by the mysterious Storm Walker, he discovers a previously undreamed-of talent for magic, and his life is swept up in the study of arcane arts...
...until the very principles of magic, and indeed the future of Faerun, come under attack from the unspeakable influences of the Shadow Stone'.

(happy sigh) This is one of those books that just makes it all worth it. The Shadow Stone is one of the best FR novels to date. I must admit, I sometimes question reading FR; there is a lot of junk out there, but then a book like this comes along and convinces me to stick with it. The Shadow Stone is excellent reading, with an extremely well devealoped plot line, and beautiful writing. This is not a simple hack and slash my friends.While it is no Les Miserables, there are themes besides simple advancment of the realms. Everything is perfect and vivid, from Aerons training to his introduction to the academy to the shadow stone. One would think that had it not been a minor FR novel, it might have developed quite a calling among readers. Please, I implore you to read this book. It is one of those unread books that deserves to be read.

I am growing slightly annoyed with TSR ramming their books down our throats (although I suppose I can't blame them, even they are a company after all). It's realms-shaking this, and realms-shattering that, and hey, you can publisize all you want, but what it boils down to is this; this is quality writing.

If you are in the mood for a good, real book, one with action that isn't wholly hack and slash; if you are looking for a good read, look here.

The Shadow Stone! What more can be said about this exciting, mind blowing novel. This book is the true essence of magic. The main character (Aaron) isn't just a nomal character who easily gains his magic from an item or a god grants him power to be the realms best mage. NO.... That is not a good book. This book tells of a young lad who actually earns the magic that he possesses through rigerous practise and events. BUT.... that still doesn't give it a 5 star. This book does something that can't be read any where else. It explains how magic actually works. Mostly elven magic, but it explains that elven magic is drawn from the essense of the earth, called the weave. This book also has the best story line you can find. I wont ruin it for any one who hasn't read it, but i will with out a doubt recomend it to anyone in search of a decent book (which is rare).