Review of The Old Stone House

Nazma P · Post by **Nazma P** » 25 Jun 2025, 15:35

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "The Old Stone House" by Joseph L Waner.]

5 out of 5 stars

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When a novel blends centuries-old history with modern-day mystery, digging up historical truths and adding a slight mystical touch, you know you are in for an immersive story. The Old Stone House by Joseph L. Waner draws readers into a world of ancient secrets, mind-twisting revelations, and unexpected turns of events that will blur the line between myth and reality.

The story is set against the scenic backdrop of Mont-Saint-Michel and follows Nathan Gudin, an archeologist whose routine life took an unexpected turn when he discovered a copper plate during his archaeological oversight of construction work behind Monica's restaurant on Mont-Saint-Michel. The discovery was the beginning of the chaos Nathan would soon find himself in. The path Nathan took purely out of professional curiosity soon tangled him in a web of secrets, danger, and revelations. And made him question what he knows about history, faith, and even the nature of the people around him.

As the story progressed, Nathan met Harold and Anaine. Every encounter of Nathan with Harold ended up being a mystery, leaving him with questions that defied logic. And Anaine, a Benedictine monk whose version of history puzzled Nathan as he spoke with an unsettling familiarity of events centuries past. As Nathan ventured deeper, he got to know about the Accord, a legendary artifact tied to the very foundations of the Mont. The Accord seemed to be more than just an ancient artifact. To uncover the truth, Nathan must decide how far he's willing to go.

The standout aspect of this book is its ability to evoke an urge to learn history. I found myself searching French history while reading this book. Because the book made me utterly curious. Mont-Saint-Michel was not only rich in history but also a breathtaking place that transported me right into the story. The author's vivid descriptions of the tide, stone walls, and night view made it feel like I could feel every sensation of the atmosphere. The blend of history with eerie fiction promises a thrilling read throughout. The characters are what made this novel intriguing. Nathan is a relatable character with his skepticism about the unsettling events he was witnessing. His dilemma about whether to believe in something that defies every rational logic is authentic. On the other hand, Harold and Anaine are the ones that heighten the suspense with their unspoken secrets and mysterious nature. Nathan's relationship with Harold and Anaine was sometimes pleasant, other times full of doubts. I couldn't pinpoint their true intentions, just like Nathan couldn't. The growing tension promises an engaging read throughout. I commend the author's ability to craft a well-developed mystery in such a compact narrative.

There is something that I felt can be improved. I felt that the ending was a bit rushed and abrupt. The truth should have been unraveled with more clarity and intensity. A little extension would make the ending feel earned without losing the compactness of the book. Although this aspect didn't affect my overall enjoyment. Because I was completely immersed in the mystery. I found very few errors. So overall, the book is well edited. With that being said, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. If you enjoy stories that blend the past with the mystical, then this will be a worthwhile read for you.

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The Old Stone House
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Lindsay Doud · Post by **Lindsay Doud** » 28 Jun 2025, 14:11

The Old Stone House seems like a promising read! I have read very few books set in France that touch on French history so I know I would learn something new reading this book. I would be intrigued as this genre is my favorite to read!

Onyemuwa-dave · Post by **Onyemuwa-dave** » 29 Jun 2025, 04:25

It's always a treat when a book makes you want to dive into real-world history, like your experience looking up Mont-Saint-Michel. The way you describe the mystery surrounding Harold and Anaine and the growing tension sounds incredibly captivating. It’s clear why you rated it 5 stars even with a slightly rushed ending. Great recommendation.

Post by **Kibet Hillary** » 29 Jun 2025, 11:17

It is often, indeed, quite hard to believe in something that seems to define logic, but I am wondering what exactly was the reason or the cause of the danger associated with the discovery. The review has piqued my curiosity. Thank you, @Nazma P, for the amazing review.

Sunitha A R · Post by **Sunitha A R** » 04 Jul 2025, 11:59

I completely agree with your take on the main theme. It was powerful and very well-written. Thanks for such a thoughtful review!

Helen Waziri · Post by **Helen Waziri** » 15 Jul 2025, 06:08

**The Old Stone House** sounds like an absolutely fascinating read! Combining ancient history with a modern mystery, especially set in a place as iconic as Mont-Saint-Michel, is such a brilliant concept. It's awesome that the book actually made the reviewer want to dive into French history—that's a huge compliment to an author! The vivid descriptions and the intriguing characters, like Harold and Anaine, really make it sound immersive. Even if the ending felt a little rushed, a perfect 5 out of 5 stars means it's a must-read for anyone who loves a blend of history and the mystical.

Violet Devreaux · Post by **Violet Devreaux** » 15 Jul 2025, 21:11

Sounds promising! I love a good plot twist.

Jessy Edward · Post by **Jessy Edward** » 15 Jul 2025, 23:45

This review makes the book sound really fascinating! I love stories that mix history with a bit of mystery and the supernatural. Mont-Saint-Michel as the setting is such a cool choice too. It already feels magical. Even though the ending seems a bit rushed, I’m definitely curious to read it and unravel the secrets along with Nathan!

Etimbuk Eshiet · Post by **Etimbuk Eshiet** » Yesterday, 03:35

This review beautifully captures what I love most in a novel—history blended with mystery and a bit of the mystical. Mont-Saint-Michel as a setting already draws me in, but the mention of rich characters and eerie twists seals the deal. I’m definitely intrigued by Nathan’s journey and the artifact called the Accord!