Review: When the Stones Held by David E. Owen
Book details:
Publication Date: 16th May 2026
Publisher: Independently Published
Print Length: 331 Pages
Any Triggers: Drowning, poverty
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When The Stones Held is an unforgettable historical novel inspired by the true story of William Edwards, the self taught Welsh stonemason who built one of the greatest bridges of the eighteenth century.
Born into poverty in the remote valleys of South Wales, William grows up in a world shaped by hard labour, dangerous rivers, and communities struggling to survive. Education is rare. Opportunity is rarer still. Yet from childhood, William becomes fascinated by stone, by balance, and by the dream of building something that will outlive him.
As the coal trade begins transforming Wales and merchants demand safer routes through the valleys, William sets himself an impossible task, to build a bridge across the fierce River Taff where others have failed. Floods destroy his work. Rivals mock him. Powerful men try to break him. Each collapse threatens his reputation, his livelihood, and the people he loves.
Set against the harsh beauty of eighteenth century Wales, When The Stones Held is a story of ambition, resilience, love, grief, and determination. It brings to life the people, language, and struggles of a forgotten world while telling the remarkable true story behind the bridge that gave birth to the town of Pontypridd.
Perfect for readers who enjoy rich historical fiction, Welsh history, and stories of ordinary people achieving extraordinary things.
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5 out of 5 (exceptional)
WHEN THE STONES HELD is an amazing piece of work by Mr Owen. Inspired by architect/mason William Edwards, we follow him from the age of six. During that time, we learn what life was like in the valley, how poor they were because of taxes and tithes, what it was like to have one of the Hundred ruling things, and the community, love, laughter, heartbreak, and sorrow that came with it.
The one thing I loved was how the church and the bridge were community projects, and how neither of them went smoothly! That made it all the more real to me. Even someone with as much foresight and feeling for the stones would have faced difficulties along the way, whether that was from the weather, the river, or others in the community who disagreed.
This story was rich in community life, and I celebrated and commiserated in equal measure. There were times when it definitely didn't go the way I was expecting it to, which just made it all the better for me. It also showed the beginning of the coal mining that would dominate South Wales for many a year. The coal slag heaps are now covered in green vegetation as nature takes back what was claimed by man. William's Bridge still stands to this day, creating a lasting legacy.
An exceptional read that I couldn't put down; this book absolutely deserves 5 out of 5 exceptional stars from me. Anything less is just not possible. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
** The same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I read this book voluntarily; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian
'When the Stones Held' is a beautifully written novel that celebrates perseverance, faith, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. It reminds us that the greatest achievements are rarely built by one pair of hands alone, but through the courage, kindness, and support of those who stand beside us.
Yarde Book Promotions
After decades spent teaching around the world—from the UK to the Caribbean, Africa, and the Middle East—I came to writing fiction later in life. I started with fantasy before finding my voice in fast-paced, real-world spy thrillers. My stories are grounded in current issues like corruption, gender bias, and power, but always emphasise pace, surprise, and character-driven tension.
I’ve visited over 80 countries, worked as a radio host in Abu Dhabi, directed Shakespeare for African audiences in the bush, and even survived a flash flood in Mali and an armed hold-up. I was arrested for drug-smuggling in Nigeria but was eventually released when I refused to pay off the police captain, and I was boat-wrecked alone on a desert island in the Arabian Sea (but no tree) and rescued through a police search. Now retired from teaching, I split my time between writing, photography, and trying to get fit (thanks to a stubborn rowing machine). My latest novel, Hate Machine, tackles misogyny and gender radicalisation — not typical thriller territory, but I like a challenge.
Social Media Links:
Website: https://davideowen.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daieowen
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B008MKE5X8/about
Tour hosted by: Yarde Reviews & Book Promotion
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