Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Mourner's Song: Chronicles of the Sovereigns

Rate this book
A Sovereign of Death, bound by unyielding devotion, resists a temptation that could unravel eternity.

A Sovereign of Sorrow dares to break the oldest law and love a mortal, only to learn that fate does not bend for desire.

A Sovereign of Pleasure tempts mortals with delights that always demand their price.

The lesson is fate always demands balance.

The Mourner’s Song is the prequel to the Chronicles of the Sovereigns saga, Threads of Fate, a sweeping romantasy of desire, defiance, and divine consequence.

208 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2025

5 people are currently reading
21 people want to read

About the author

Lana J. Williams

3 books33 followers
Lana has loved writing since childhood, beginning with poetry and eventually expanding into full-length stories. A lifelong reader, she gravitates toward fantasy, science fiction, and romance (especially if it’s spicy!). These genres continue to inspire her own storytelling, and she loves creating fantasy and romance worlds with much more of both still to come! When she isn’t writing, Lana enjoys traveling, tending to her plants, and spending time outdoors, where she finds much of her creativity and peace.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
35 (72%)
4 stars
13 (27%)
3 stars
0 (0%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Cinnamon&Pine.
107 reviews7 followers
November 16, 2025
This prequel follows the sovereigns of Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure as they edge toward a boundary the fates have no intention of letting them cross. More novella than novel, it feels like a myth retold in hushed tones: calm in its delivery, devastating in its emotional undercurrent.

The writing is beautifully restrained, measured in a way that deepens the atmosphere instead of rushing through it. There is a constant sense of melancholy, a weight that settles over every page and makes even the smallest moments feel significant. It’s emotionally challenging without ever slipping into theatrics.

Rather than action or spectacle, the story focuses on introspection, balance, and the arrogance of believing fate can be outmaneuvered. It’s contemplative, quietly intense, and the sort of tale that lingers long after you finish.

Rating: 4 stars — a beautifully crafted, thematically rich prequel that proves a well-written novella can leave a deeper mark than many full-length novels.
Profile Image for Jessica Kowalkowski.
11 reviews
Read
November 17, 2025
First and foremost Lana is the sweetest author and I was so excited for The Mourner’s Song after reading Treads of Fate (Book 1). I am so invested in this series, and as someone who is not typically a fantasy reader, that is saying something!

This book follows three Sovereigns, Death (obsessed), Sorrow, and Pleasure.

I need to say, I loved this entire book, but I told Lana from the startI KNEW I was going to be obsessed with Death and I was right. However each part really had me feeling some type of way and elicited different feelings in me while reading. Lana has a way of writing that really pulls you in and makes you care about the characters and what happens with them and in their world.

This book is more novella than novel, so be aware that you will be wanting more because the end will come near and then you will crave that next book!

5 Stars!! Read this book!
Profile Image for T || .
180 reviews
November 15, 2025
Lana does it again
The Mourners Song is #2 in the chronicles of the fates series. After reading, reviewing and finishing book 1 (threads of fate) Lana told me about book 2 and I instantly jumped on that beta reading it for her. She now has my fully for the whole series.

This particular book in series focuses mainly around 3 of the Sovereigns
Death *i adore him fyi*
Sorrow
Pleasure

Although I LOVED the whole book. The parts that stood out to me the most personally was part 1 (death) and part 2 (sorrow). They just spoke to my broken little black heart and sole, and they did something for me more than part 3 (pleasure). Although, Pleasures part had me in tears at the end of it (no spoilers) and shes such a fiesty fierce badass of a sovereign. But hands down death and sorrow take the lead in this!!!

Dont be fooled by the name of the book either. When it says Mourners it means it. It comes with a highly emotional warning from me 🤣 and it does take alot for me to shed a tear. Word of warning Lana will not fund your therapy bill neither 🤯🤣 whats a girl to do.

Lana's writing in both books so far is mesmerising.  I love the forms she writes in, the depictions of things, and I LOVE how she avoids repetition where possible so things arent a repeat and fresh, new with a continued flow.

So.. in short....RUN dont walk & grab an arc sign up before it closes ❤️

Ps. Lana you owe me! 🤷‍♀️🥷🤣
1 review
November 10, 2025
The books starts out very well in the prologue. The first few chapters set the characters for the book. The following chapters are alittle confusing going back and forth between the characters. In the first chapters it is confusing if he is watching from his realm or in the mortal world. As the story progresses the romance gets more confusing. While it is a good book it is a hard read. It was not a book that I could sit and read continuously, I had to get up and then go back to the book.
Profile Image for Jenny Hoards Books.
42 reviews
December 27, 2025
Lana J Williams has done it again and I am not okay! I would like to thank her immensely for the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this, I absolutely couldn't wait any longer! The first book in the Chronicles of the Sovereigns, Threads of Fate, was one of my favorite reads of the year. The second pulled me in even deeper in the universe. This series will be my Roman Empire.

The Mourner's Song is a prequel that highlights Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure's backstories. There is an emotional trigger warning for this one, but if you've read Threads of Fate you knew this was coming.

I am obsessed with Lana's writing style. The flow and it's poetic nature resonate with me and I want to devour everything she writes. This one is absolutely a tearjerker but it's unfortunately necessary, I'll send my therapy bill to the Fates.

I cannot recommend this book enough. I'll be shouting about it from the rooftops for the foreseeable future so you should probably just read it! While it is a prequel I would highly recommend reading it after the first book, there are minor spoilers and the emotional impact is much stronger if you already know the events of Threads of Fate. I am so excited to see where this is all going. I said this in my review for the first book but now I am certain this series is going to be an insanely epic romantasy. I will be here emotionally recovering and begging for the next book.
Profile Image for Farrahlea.
92 reviews5 followers
December 28, 2025
Well, I really enjoyed this book. The way she writes the story makes you feel like you're in it. It's a must read to escape reality sometimes, the writing is truly immersive, a must read status is confirmed and I can't wait to see what's next.
Profile Image for Jehad Jabr.
Author 1 book8 followers
December 29, 2025
The Mourner’s Song unfolds as a contemplative and emotionally layered entry in the Chronicles of the Sovereigns, leaning heavily into themes of grief, fate, and the quiet weight of remembrance. Rather than relying on constant action, the novel allows its emotional core to guide the narrative, creating a reading experience that feels deliberate and introspective.

One of the novel’s strongest aspects is its treatment of mourning as a transformative force rather than a static emotional state. Grief in this story is not simply endured—it shapes identity, alters relationships, and influences the moral decisions the characters are forced to make. The author gives this theme room to breathe, trusting the reader to sit with the discomfort and ambiguity that loss brings.

The characters themselves feel carefully constructed, particularly in how their internal conflicts mirror the broader mythic stakes of the world. Personal sorrow and cosmic consequence are interwoven in a way that feels intentional rather than decorative. Moments of vulnerability are handled with restraint, which ultimately makes them more impactful. The emotional tension is often subtle, driven by unspoken longing and restrained dialogue rather than overt declarations.

From a structural standpoint, the pacing favors atmosphere and emotional buildup over rapid plot progression. This approach may not appeal to readers seeking constant momentum, but it serves the story well by reinforcing its somber tone. The worldbuilding remains immersive without overwhelming the narrative, offering just enough mythological context to anchor the emotional stakes.

The romantic elements are present but measured, functioning as an extension of the characters’ emotional journeys rather than the central spectacle. This balance allows the darker undertones of the story to remain intact, lending the novel a sense of gravity that lingers beyond its final pages.

Overall, The Mourner’s Song is a thoughtful and emotionally resonant novel that rewards patient readers. It will particularly appeal to those who value character-driven romantasy, nuanced emotional exploration, and stories willing to embrace melancholy as a meaningful narrative force.
Profile Image for Katherine's Books.
46 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2025
I just finished this book and wow. This is the second book to Threads of fate. These books introduce us to the sovereigns and the fates. We have Life, Death, Mercy, Revenge, Pleasure, Pain, Fury, Peace, Joy, and Sorrow. They are allowed to help guide mortals but never allowed to fall in love. But of course they do! They just can’t resist us broken mortals. But we have Peace who does in fact fall in love in the first book and that doesn’t quite go according to her plan and that one ended on a cliff hanger. The second book follows Death, sorrow and pleasure and dang! I really loved Death, like talk about a broody mysterious MMC. The stories of these sovereigns falling in love is heartbreaking . This is a magical, poetic, sad stories lol. Unfortunately we don’t know if any of them get a happy ending but I am told the third book will help tie up some loose strings I so hope so. The two books are short but very powerful and leave you ready for more. Threads of fate is out now on KU go get to know Peace and her mortal that she falls in love with. Then on November 15th A mourner’s song will be out to get to know the next three sovereign’s. You will totally fall for the sovereign Death I’m telling you!
Profile Image for Elaine Arentz.
71 reviews6 followers
November 12, 2025
A Sovereign of Death, a Sovereign of Sorrow, a Sovereign of Pleasure… each bound by fate, each tested by desire.

Lana J. Williams does another wonderful job expanding the world of the Chronicles of the Sovereigns saga. The Mourner’s Song is a beautifully written story that offers a deeper look into Thalore (Death), Melora (sorrow), and Sedara (pleasure) (and no, I’m not giving spoilers!). It serves as the perfect palette cleanser between the heavier threads of the main series, while still carrying that signature bittersweet tone Lana captures so well.

What I loved most was how this story adds nuance to the gods themselves—it’s equal parts myth, emotion, and tragedy. You can feel the weight of devotion and the cost of desire woven into every page. It’s short, but it lingers.

That said, I am absolutely ready for Book 3—I need more of Eira and Adrian, and I wouldn’t complain about seeing more of Thamys either!

If you’re looking for a cozy, reflective fall read that bridges divine lore and mortal longing, definitely pick up The Mourner’s Song. And if you haven’t yet started the series, begin with Threads of Fate—you’ll be swept away by the worldbuilding and the emotional depth of it all.
Profile Image for Teresa Neace.
33 reviews4 followers
November 17, 2025
The Mourners Song is a haunting and immersive journey into the realms of three Sovereigns—Thalore (Death), Melora (Sorrow), and Sedara (Pleasure). Even though this is book two, it stands beautifully on its own. I hadn’t read the first book before starting this one, but by the time I finished, I was already eager to go back and experience the entire world from the beginning.
Lana J. Williams writes in a way that is both beautifully tragic and poetic. The slow pacing only enhances the melancholy woven through every chapter, making the story feel like a soft, lingering echo of grief and longing. Her descriptions are so vivid that I felt as though I was standing beside the characters, witnessing every moment firsthand.
The storyline between Thalore and Lenora captured me the most. Their romance is bittersweet, atmospheric, and tinged with gothic elegance. Thalore, especially, reminded me of Dream from The Sandman—quietly calm, deeply enigmatic, and impossibly captivating.
This entire book is a tapestry of love, desire, loss, and yearning. It is heartbreakingly beautiful, and its title could not be more fitting.
Thank you, Lana J. Williams, for creating such a tragic and breathtaking story. I look forward to reading so much more from you.
Profile Image for Mallory Dapice.
40 reviews
November 14, 2025
I said this about Threads of Fate, and I will absolutely say it again...there is something so beautiful about the way Lana J Williams writes that transports me into the scene.
The way this story is written is so descriptive and lyrical. I felt the heaviness of the mist, I was in the grey dim streets, I watched the threads move.

I can't get enough of this series.

In Threads of Fate I had a love/hate relationship with Thaloré.
Except this time, in Mourner's Song, we get such a better understanding of why he is the way he is now.
The story of Thaloré and Lenora was the bittersweet gothic romance that will live rent free in my mind forever. I could have read hundreds more pages dedicated to them.

I can go on an on about Sorrow and Pleasure, but I will leave that for you to read.

As a prequel, I think this could be read first, but I adore how everything unraveled and how the back story grew by reading Mourner's Song second. So, go read Threads of Fate and then come back!

A beautiful story of love, longing, and loss. Give this a read!

Thank you so much Lana J Williams for allowing me to read and review this ARC, it has been an absolute pleasure.
Profile Image for Rima Ayoub .
119 reviews16 followers
December 2, 2025
The Mourner’s Song, which is the second book in Lana J. Williams’ Chronicles of the Sovereign series, is an absolute triumph. Where the first book centered on peace.. this one dives headfirst into the depths of sorrow, pleasure, and death and it does so breathtakingly. The author doesn’t just explore these themes… No.. she reshapes them, turning each one into a powerful force that lingers long after the final page.

This book was such an eye-opener. The way Williams redefines what these emotions and experiences truly mean.. how they shape us, break us, and sometimes set us free.. is nothing short of brilliant. The writing is so easy, the world-building is sharp, (I mean you can see it as you read it) and the emotional pull is there. Every chapter felt like peeling back another layer of truth I didn’t realize I needed to confront.

This book was bold. It was a beautifully written continuation of the series. If you thought the first book was powerful, this one will leave you stunned in the best possible way. If you haven’t read this, I don’t know what your are waiting for. I personally couldn’t put it down. Xo
Profile Image for Z.
22 reviews
November 16, 2025
Although I haven’t read Threads of Fate, I was ecstatic to jump into the world of the Sovereigns and I was not disappointed. I loved that the POVs were from both partners in each pairing and the longing and loneliness of each Sovereign hit me in the gut. The Fates? Yea, they can go and take a vacation like yesterday. They’re mean! But they’re the perfect villains and I’d actually love to see their perspectives and how they are immune from human behavior and emotion. I think it’s interesting that the Architect created these gods and goddesses with seemingly similar emotions as the former gods that were destroyed by their free will and emotion. I’m absolutely heartbroken over what happened to Sedara and was really rooting for her. Well, to be fair, I was heartbroken over the other two consequences as well but, I don’t know, I still had hope. I’m so excited to see what happens in Threads of Fate and continue following this series until completion. I’m hooked! The only con? I have to wait for the third book lol
Profile Image for Mandy Britt.
310 reviews9 followers
November 11, 2025
The Mourner's Song, the second volume in The Chronicles of the Fates, is a profound and emotionally charged masterpiece that solidifies the series' must-read status.
​This installment focuses on Sovereigns Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure. The narratives dedicated to the mysterious, brooding Sovereign Death and the heartbreaking arc of Sorrow are especially powerful, resonating deeply with the central themes. Be warned: the title is indicative of the emotional intensity, and the book demands a strong reaction.
​Lana's writing is mesmerizing, characterized by poetic prose and an assured, fresh narrative flow. She skillfully explores the series' core conflict: the devastating consequences of the Fates defying the ban on loving mortals.
​This is a short, yet immensely powerful, exploration of free will and cosmic balance. Highly recommended for fans of character-driven fantasy. Start with Threads of Fate before diving into the emotional power of The Mourner's Song.
Profile Image for Amber Lawrence.
20 reviews2 followers
November 12, 2025
If you dont buy this book your gonna be missing out on the best journey your world has ever know follow me into the world of the sovereigns and fates. This particular book in series focuses mainly around 3 of the Sovereigns Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure. They can guide us in life but never fall for us humans but you know the heart wants what the heart wants. Peace from book one does find her man and then that didnt go as planned and ended on a cliff hanger. The second book follows Death, sorrow and pleasure and i cant wait for more. Threads of fate is out on KU go grab it NOW. Then on November 15th book 2 is released. Hopefully book 3 will introduce us to more of the crew who will we meet next we have Life, Death, Mercy, Revenge, Pleasure, Pain, Fury, Peace, Joy, and Sorrow. The stories of these sovereigns falling in love is hard to read but magical. The two books are shorter than I've read before but leave you ready to dive into this world head first.
1 review
November 17, 2025
This second book in the series was everything I hoped for and more. The writing continues to be incredibly strong, and it was such a treat to revisit characters we first met in book one. Getting the chance to truly know them this time around made the story feel so much richer and more immersive.

Hearing the stories of Death, Sorrow & Pleasure, especially how each of them have been affected by the human world added such depth to the overall narrative. It felt like puzzle pieces finally clicking into place in the most satisfying way.

This installment is also far more emotionally charged than the first. Some moments are genuinely gut-wrenching, and the author does an amazing job capturing the yearning, grief and connection without ever making it feel forced. I found myself completely swept up in the highs and lows.

This book was a beautifully written and emotional continuation of the series. I cannot wait to see what comes next!!
Profile Image for Michelle Shamy.
966 reviews55 followers
November 22, 2025
omgosh hands down this is one of the best books I've read all year. those book talks about Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure. and each of their stories had my heart in a place that wrecked me. but in the best way.
I have NEVER read a book with this much passion in it. so much love. I've never seen love written this way.
Honestly though, Death and Lenora almost had me in tears a few times.
Sorrow and Callem had me on the fence. I felt sorry for her but I have little thoughts about Callemm.
And Pleasure just irritated me. She played a game and she lost. I totally understand that it was her job to bring pleasure, but she was cruel about it. I felt like she targeted Miguel. She got what she deserved. while Miguel spent the rest of his life in wonder of her.
But this book was absolutely amazing!
I feel so blessed to be able to be a part of Lana's ARC team.
This book was extraordinary ❤️
it truly has my heart.
35 reviews
November 17, 2025
Just like her first book in this series, Lana writes in a way that's so beautifully tender and leaves you feeling the emotions of each character.

Sometimes fate can be a heartbreaking thing. And for those who keep balance in the world, fate is more rigorous.

The story follows Death, Sorrow and pleasure and their battle between duty and the forbidden of the mortal world. As this a prequel to The Threads of Fate, this book gave me a better understanding to the reactions Eira and Aidan’s story.

I loved reading Death’s story and the hold the end of his story had on me will forever live rent free in my head.

Forbidden desire is the most tantalizing and reading Death, Sorrow, and Pleasure’s story will have you questioning how much you would be willing to give up for what you desire.
Profile Image for Melissa Visser.
20 reviews
November 20, 2025
The Mourner’s Song is an evocative, character-driven fantasy that blends court intrigue with mythic resonance. Its greatest strengths lie in its atmosphere and emotional depth: the prose feels poetic without becoming overwrought, and the world—steeped in ritual, lineage, and the weight of legacy—feels lived-in from the first chapter.

The characters, especially the central mourner whose duty binds them to the fate of the Sovereigns, are complex and morally layered. While the pacing slows in a few places due to heavy exposition, the payoff is worth it: the story delivers a thoughtful exploration of grief, loyalty, and power.

Overall, it’s a compelling, quietly powerful fantasy for readers who enjoy rich world-building, introspective heroes, and mythology-tinged storytelling.
Profile Image for Émilie SoonjiBooks.
30 reviews
November 12, 2025
The first half of the book we start with one of the Sovereigns Death ( Thaloré). I really like the fact that we get to know the Sovereigns more thoroughly. I really enjoy this forbidden love and it was a really beautiful and passionate romance. We follow with Sorrow and Pleasure and their stories.Each sovereign’s facing the consequences of loving mortals to keep the balance of life and what will happens to them if they keep loving a human.

“ Love was never the salvation of gods. It was the beginning of their ruin”.

Available 11/15 I recommend to read ,but first go read Threads Of Fate book 1 that is available now !
Profile Image for Andrea Gissentanna.
28 reviews
November 17, 2025
ARC Review
Three books in one—how could you not dive into this? Thalore grabs your attention from the very beginning, and I’m so glad this marks the start of book two.
I’ve always been fascinated by death, and the way this story brings it to life is absolutely priceless. Part one will stay with me forever—an absolute masterpiece. Then Melora’s story? It pulls you into a sorrowful, emotional space, but in the most beautiful way. Lana writes it with such depth and care.
Every section of this book shines. The way Sedara is written? Chef’s kiss. And that ending—perfectly satisfying while still leaving you hungry for more.
Profile Image for Ares Dean.
5 reviews
November 17, 2025
I never got a chance to read book one but this book was so good I plan to go back and read it. This book was so emotionally moving it almost felt like poetry. I could feel each and every emotion from all the characters. I genuinely hurt with these characters as I read each of their parts. Thalore definitely gives shadow daddy vibes and I am here for it. I both loved and despised The Fates but they make such a good villain in this book and are written very well. I can tell this will be one of those stories that sticks with me and I will think back to these characters often. I am itching for more in this universe now though and hope to learn even more about the Threads of Fate.
Profile Image for Kirsty Harley .
98 reviews
November 11, 2025
Getting the privilege to read book 2 pre-publish is such an honour to be trusted with her work. Lana is an amazing author and the journey is only beginning for this series. getting to know more of the characters from the first book gave me more of an opinion on how they love and how they interact with us humans. I had a busy trip during my read which was such a shame, I will be reading book 1 and 2 again at one sitting to really go into the realm Lana has created for us. bring on book 3!

4.5⭐️
Profile Image for Caissie.
23 reviews14 followers
November 16, 2025
I was finally able to finish The Mourner’s Song and I loved it even more than the first book, Threads of Fate. Lana’s writing is just so beautiful it really sucks you into the world with the Sovereigns. This book focused on Thaloré (death), Melora (Sorrow) and Sedara (pleasure) but Thaloré‘s story was the most interesting to me after reading about him some in book 1 and finding out some of his backstory. “Tragedy is the only language mortals share with the gods” 🖤
1 review
November 22, 2025
The Mourner’s Song is a lush, emotionally driven tale where mythic stakes meet raw, personal longing. Williams weaves a world where divine laws and mortal desires collide, creating tension that feels both epic and deeply intimate. The characters’ sacrifices and yearnings carry real weight, and the pacing moves from contemplative to urgent in a way that keeps you invested. If you’re ready for romance that’s heavy on consequence and world-building that doesn’t shy away from pain, this one delivers. Just be prepared: this isn’t a light read—it’s meant to linger.
Profile Image for Lou Ann.
46 reviews12 followers
November 4, 2025
The book for me is about free will and guided decisions. Layer after layer- an unknown yet familiar world, 2 worlds bound but forbidden to mingle, love and consequences, and the balance of the Loom. There are multiple emotions, lessons, and interpretations in this book. Without touching upon the character interactions (no spoilers here), I strongly recommend reading Threads Of Fate, this book, and then TOF again! The journey is well worth it and you will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Rachael Reid.
6 reviews
November 17, 2025
I was lucky to receive an ARC copy of The Mourner’s Song and boy did it not disappoint. I flew through this book, it’s so good. I could not stop. The POVs are top notch, the characters are intriguing, and I absolutely love the writing style. I couldn’t wait for book 2 and now I’m so sad it’s over. Now I'll have to reread both! This very much so could be read as book one but I love that book 2 gives us more context after book one sucks you in. Definitely read this!
136 reviews4 followers
November 5, 2025
Another great book from this author!! This book centers on 3 of the 10 sovereigns (11 if you count Caelus-knowledge). I think that Thalore is one of my favorite characters in this book. Also love the stories of Melora & Seldana. If you haven’t read Threads of Fate, I recommend reading it first, then read this one. Highly recommend!!
4 reviews1 follower
November 10, 2025
Absolutely loved The Mourner’s Song! Such imagery you get swept up into the page. This romantsy has everything I’m looking for in a book. Great characters, emotional tension and terrific storyline. Highly recommend this and Threads of Fate. Although this can be read alone, I highly recommend reading both books. I cannot wait for more books in this series.
2 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2025
This book was full of so many emotions. You could literally feel the heartbreak as you read their stories. Melora and Callums story made me sob! The pure emotions you go through are spectacular! Sedara was pure temptress and so fierce! The fates suck and I hate them but you will have to read to see why. Be ready for a rollercoaster of emotions!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.