A great sequel to the fantasy epic!

The first book in Ryan Lanz fantasy series, The Silver Crystal, was a wondrous, enchanting world full of magic, war, secret societies, intrigue, and mystery, and The Way Of Stones doesn’t hold anything back. It starts right where the first book let off and tightens the noose immediately. The stakes are higher, war is looming ever closer and the tension keeps you at the edge of your seat.

The story still follows Rhael, former bounty hunter now turned semi-outlaw and desperate to find his way in the world. No longer surrounded by a bunch of comrades, he clings to a much smaller group of friends in this second book. He’s lost and strungout, but determined to right the wrongs that were done to him and I enjoyed following him and Gobo on their quest. At the same time, there are many more pieces moving on the board of war.

In the city of Abalreen, The Order is rebuilding after what culminated at the end of book 1, but in the shadows they are working on something more, something darker. Out in the wilderness, The Corrupted are trying to fend for themselves, building a home where they can be left alone, but at the same time working on how to hit back against those who would harm them. Commander Levras is also back in action, with much more page time than in the first book, carrying with him his own, personal vendetta.

All in all, there’s a lot going on and The Way of Stones reads like an incredibly large and captivating fantasy epic, laying down the foundation and building to what I can only imagine is an exciting conclusion.

At the same time, I felt like the book dragged a bit, particularly in the middle, with many drawn-out scenes and long passages, and though they were never dull, they often felt like they didn’t lead anywhere. Maybe it was just me and my headspace at the moment, but I felt my attention drop at times. It also didn’t help that certain words and phrases were used that kept pulling me out of the fantasy setting – The Corrupted are often called ability users, for example, and the ragtag bands of misfit warriors who dwell in the forests usually just refer to themselves as groups. I don’t know, it’s probably just a me problem—but occasionally I missed that fantasy vibe.

But please, don’t get me wrong! To conclude, this is a great fantasy read and a strong sequel—though I admit I liked the first book better (the curse of every great first book)—and it sets up the story for an exciting third installment!

Oh, and I still absolutely love Gobo.

What do you think? Have you read anything exciting lately? Come across any good books, any hidden gems, or perhaps something you didn’t like at all? Let me know in the comments! I love it when people get in touch.

And as always, please check out all my books and stories below. If you’re into psychological horror, crime thrillers, or science-fiction and fantasy, you’ve come to the right place. Bye for now!

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Trey Stone’s Books

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