With The Stone of the Stars, young adult author Alison Baird steps into the adult fantasy genre. The first in a trilogy, the novel revolves around a race to find the legendary Stone of the Stars. In a world where gods once roamed the earth, Zimbouran warriors, under a dark magic king, are conquering and enslaving country after country on the planet Mera. The Stone, legend has it, will be a key factor when the champion of the dark god rises.

A company of four young people, with vast differences in background, race, and beliefs, join together to follow the route laid out on an ancient scroll in search of the Stone. From these familiar elements (which also include a glossary, pronunciation guide, listing of religions, and a bestiary of fantastic creatures) Baird creates a pleasant, if not altogether original, fantasy.

Although written in a simple, accessible style, The Stone of the Stars is replete with diverse characters and vivid images. The novel’s fictional history and mythology are rich and well conceived. Unfortunately, much of this detail is given in lengthy conversations between the characters. The narrative regularly slows down as characters pontificate for half a page or more, making the novel regrettably easy to put down. There is also a feeling of distance from the characters, even in action scenes that should be exciting and involving.

Thankfully the language and style are straightforward enough to allow easy recovery from these lapses. The Stone of the Stars breaks no new ground in the fantasy genre, but it is a pleasant enough diversion, particularly for YA readers moving toward adult fiction.