The story of Elina and Mira is a beautiful one first and foremost, and I loved it. The book was devoured over a day and although there was a triggering moment for me (I shall place a warning at the end of my review & not mention it further) I found their story to be one that held my attention captive till the end

Set in Stone is a reimagining of legend set in Medieval Eastern Europe but with a wonderful twist that places the women at the forefront of the tale. I was intrigued by both Elina who is the sole daughter of the Boyar; a member of the aristocracy, and Mina who is the widowed potter's daughter. Two young women from two vastly different backgrounds and with thoughts and desires for their lives that are far from the norm for the time and their place within society as women. I would love to know more about these women and their backgrounds, but I imagine due to the origin being a legend, that would be difficult however; I am fascinated by them both.

Whilst it's made evident that women are regarded as less than men, there is a wonderful parallel of how the two girls are raised by their fathers so they break their gender roles albeit discreetly. Mina has learned her father's trade of pottery whilst Elina has been taught and has become a talented huntress. Their talents are frowned upon however thanks to society and it's sad to see as they're both such vibrant and strong women.

My favourite character however is Rozalia who was Elina's mother's lady's maid who's also the village wise woman/healer who may well be the only free woman in their village. Rozalia is the key to bringing the two women together, the metaphorical bridge of the two sides of wealth and understanding and she's so wonderfully larger than life. I just loved her.

Whilst Rozalia is the most free of the three, it isn't however, through choice and you can feel her sadness and regret for actions in the past (no spoilers of course) but in Set in Stone, freedom for all - life for all is always at a price.

The love story is gentle, and grows between Elina and Mira in such a manner that it's their friendship and bond that you see truly blossom as they face hardship and unforeseen complications both together and separately that hinder their future to be more than wives and mothers to a 'quiverful of children'.

Set in Stone is a true romance between the two and a beautiful historical fiction the is glorious in its world building, wonderfully written characters who bring the story to life. A love story that reminds us that nothing is impossible and that taking a risk for your happiness is always worth the risk.

I love that there were Romanian words used intermittently which adds to the authenticity of the tale and aid to drawing the author into the tale with a glossary at the back too, (where my thumb rested throughout the day as I guessed what the word in question meant!)
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TW. There's mentions of sexual assaul, and the probable termination of a child, also several character deaths are mentioned. All whilst unpleasant & potentially triggering aren't hugely graphic and do provide something to the tale. I would however be remiss to not mention this.

My condolences if the first two have ever affected you