Stoneborn Origins

Kael Ironheart has dreamed of becoming a stonemason his whole life. When Master Hobb chooses him as an apprentice, Kael is determined to prove himself worthy—learning to listen to stone, master the ancient techniques, and earn his place among the craftspeople of Ridgehold.
But when trapped merchants need help during a rock slide, Kael faces an impossible choice: obey his safety vow or save lives. His decision costs him everything—his apprentice marker, his quarters, and the trust of his community.
Now Kael must find a new path forward. As he learns to work with stone in ways no one has seen before, he discovers that broken things can become stronger when fused together the right way. And when an earthquake threatens to destroy the bridge that connects his settlement to the wider world, Kael will have one chance to prove that some promises are worth breaking—and some transformations change everything.
Perfect for readers ages 8-12 who love stories about magic, mentorship, and discovering that your greatest strength might come from your biggest mistake.