The first book in the Lodestone series comes to you with awards while offering many rewards to the reader. For those who read both science fiction and fantasy, “Book One: The Sea of Storms” is a recommended read. Mr. Whiteway does an excellent job of honoring the forms of those he admires, such as Jules Verne, while creating a new world and journey of his own making.

The book contrasts a society with cues both reptilian and humanoid. This first part of the larger story introduces classic conflicts of science and religion well-reflected in cultural values of the elite versus other groups. Based on an ensemble cast, each reader will find at least one character easy to identify with, propelling the story forward. Thanks to inclusion of a young woman, a musician, a holy warrior, a mysterious revolutionary, and an inscrutable insectiod, the action leads strongly through the book.

The dominant culture presented on this planet appears to not have much advanced technology. As things progress, the main characters must confront contrary evidence about religious believes, the political ramifications, and personal choices as a result of such changes. Perhaps the current state of their society is not a real representation of their history and heritage.

Challenges abound, ensuring characters have the opportunity to grow, change, and discover more about themselves. This is an important aspect to successful, modern speculative fiction that effortlessly presents in this book. Additionally, the story arc is reasonably accessible to mature-thinkers of younger age. This book does need to be limited to only an adult audience. It makes a good foil for younger readers who follow world news or events and would enjoy exploring some of the same topics in a different world through the eyes of a different species.

The Chandara, a race living on the plant and alien to the other inhabitants, are particularly well realized. I’m sure as this entire story unfolds, many readers will enjoy this book and those that follow courtesy of Mr. Whiteway.

As you know, one of the best comments anyone can make about a book is “I couldn’t go to sleep until I’d finished the final chapter”. Stopping before the end wasn’t an option. Perhaps you’ll find, as I do, skimming the prologue and then diving into the rest of the book is a great way to start a new series. I’m looking forward to the next book. If the characters or story sound like something you might enjoy, I encourage you to give this accomplished, new author a try.

Reviewed on 10/29/2011 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Heidi Roth

"Lodestone started a bit slow while the writer organized the characters to explain the setting in full detail. After about three chapters the story took off and I loved it. This story is for fantasy and sci-fi readers alike. I do suggest this book for anyone looking for an exciting tale not like anything else they have read.

"The characters are well thought out and identified and the setting is strong."

Reviewed on 06/07/2011 by ReviewTheBook.com Member Brian Woods