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The Red Kingdom #2
The Way of Stones
In a changing world, old loyalties might not survive.
The attack on Abalreen has failed. Phessipi’s band of rebels have regrouped in the forest, but she’s missing some of her key people. She’s finding it hard to move forward and even harder to come up with a new plan, especially now that The Order has its sights set on revenge.
Levas just wants things back the way they were, before the Corrupted attacked Abalreen, damaging his city and The Order’s trust in him at the same time. He used to be Lord Commander of the army, but now, he’s on the run, desperate to get back home.
Rhael is still coming to grips with having an ability, something that could get him arrested or killed. He knows how this works—he used to hunt Corrupted before becoming one of them. So when the most powerful man in Abalreen gives him a mission, he knows he needs to pay attention…even if it means betraying others like him.
The fight for survival always leaves casualties behind.
The attack on Abalreen has failed. Phessipi’s band of rebels have regrouped in the forest, but she’s missing some of her key people. She’s finding it hard to move forward and even harder to come up with a new plan, especially now that The Order has its sights set on revenge.
Levas just wants things back the way they were, before the Corrupted attacked Abalreen, damaging his city and The Order’s trust in him at the same time. He used to be Lord Commander of the army, but now, he’s on the run, desperate to get back home.
Rhael is still coming to grips with having an ability, something that could get him arrested or killed. He knows how this works—he used to hunt Corrupted before becoming one of them. So when the most powerful man in Abalreen gives him a mission, he knows he needs to pay attention…even if it means betraying others like him.
The fight for survival always leaves casualties behind.
- GenresFantasy
632 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 17, 2022
7 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Lanz
9 books45 followersRyan Lanz was born and raised on the island of Oahu in Hawaii until he was a teenager and then lived in California for a time. He enjoyed a brief experience with film before becoming involved in the performing arts, touring with a music performance group as a vocalist to a dozen countries on three continents over the length of five years.
His first published work was Unknown Sender, and he looks forward to many more in a variety of genres.
He also enjoys blogging about the culture of writing and brings on guest authors to share their writing tips. For more information, go to www.RyanLanz.com .
His first published work was Unknown Sender, and he looks forward to many more in a variety of genres.
He also enjoys blogging about the culture of writing and brings on guest authors to share their writing tips. For more information, go to www.RyanLanz.com .
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 7, 2025
The fallout from the rebel attack begins. Key personnel imprisoned. Leaders dismissed & exiled.
There is only one certainty.
Trust no one.
Fantastic sequel! Lots of new characters, mystery & danger is gripping on every page. A terrifying oppressive world!
All kinds of different POVs in this one. All of them engaging.
We have Rhael figuring out his place in life while struggling with his ability. His sidekick is a lot of fun (similarities to old school kender). It’s a good balance and brings humour in an otherwise dark setting.
There is Phessipi, leader of the corrupted. She’s making the tough calls on who to trust while coordinating the rebellion.
Revas is another. He was in charge of the order during the surprise attack. The disastrous response falls on him. He doggedly will seek answers as to what went wrong.
And then there is Odriss. A fearsome leader of the Order with secrets of his own.
And plenty more. Definitely lots of sinister cloak and dagger happenings.
A pretty captivating series so far. Looking forward to book 3.
Much thanks to the author for providing this review copy.
There is only one certainty.
Trust no one.
Fantastic sequel! Lots of new characters, mystery & danger is gripping on every page. A terrifying oppressive world!
All kinds of different POVs in this one. All of them engaging.
We have Rhael figuring out his place in life while struggling with his ability. His sidekick is a lot of fun (similarities to old school kender). It’s a good balance and brings humour in an otherwise dark setting.
There is Phessipi, leader of the corrupted. She’s making the tough calls on who to trust while coordinating the rebellion.
Revas is another. He was in charge of the order during the surprise attack. The disastrous response falls on him. He doggedly will seek answers as to what went wrong.
And then there is Odriss. A fearsome leader of the Order with secrets of his own.
And plenty more. Definitely lots of sinister cloak and dagger happenings.
A pretty captivating series so far. Looking forward to book 3.
Much thanks to the author for providing this review copy.
February 12, 2025
Introduction:
In a world irrevocably changed, old loyalties crumble as individuals grapple with the fallout of the failed attack on Abalreen. Phessipi's rebel band is fractured, struggling to regroup under the looming threat of The Order's revenge. Meanwhile, Levas, once a respected Lord Commander, is now a fugitive yearning for the past, and Rhael, a former hunter of the Corrupted now burdened with newfound abilities, faces a moral dilemma when tasked with a mission that could betray his own kind, highlighting the inevitable casualties of the fight for survival.
A Riveting Sequel of Power and Rebellion
Ryan Lanz’s "The Way of Stones (The Red Kingdom Book 2)" immerses readers in a dark and politically charged fantasy world where power is wielded mercilessly, and survival demands courage. The story unfolds through the eyes of young Jaheim, whose life is shattered when he witnesses the brutal execution of three individuals—one of them being his older brother, Gienvon—accused of possessing dangerous abilities. This harrowing experience catapults Jaheim into a world filled with fear, oppression, and a relentless struggle against the ruling Order. As he navigates his grief and newfound awareness of his brother’s hidden past, Lanz masterfully sets the stage for an emotionally gripping tale of loss, defiance, and the fight for justice.
A Kingdom on the Brink of Collapse
Beyond Jaheim’s perspective, the novel expands to explore the broader turmoil within the Red Kingdom, particularly among those with supernatural abilities. Rhael and his companions, still reeling from a violent battle, find themselves facing an uncertain future. The introduction of Bendrish adds a poignant layer to the story, emphasizing the deep wounds of familial loss in the wake of conflict. Lanz paints a vivid picture of a fractured society, where alliances are fragile, and survival depends on trust, strategy, and the willingness to sacrifice. Through his diverse cast of characters, the novel explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the harsh realities of power in a world teetering on the edge of destruction.
Leadership Under Siege
As tensions mount, the burden of leadership weighs heavily on Phessipi, a key figure within the resistance. She grapples with the consequences of past failures, torn between self-doubt and the necessity of pushing forward. A tense discussion with Wayland and Cilatia reveals the emotional toll of leadership, particularly as they mourn fallen comrades like Yungiri. Lanz skillfully weaves internal struggles with external threats, highlighting the complex interplay of personal grief and the larger cause. The raw emotions and ethical dilemmas faced by the leaders add depth to the narrative, making their victories and losses feel all the more profound.
Political Intrigue and Deception
While battles rage on the battlefield, political manoeuvring unfolds in the shadows. Levas, a commander under house arrest after a devastating attack, finds himself trapped in a game of power and betrayal. His conversations with Ariwald peel back the layers of distrust and hidden agendas, reinforcing the novel’s exploration of war’s psychological toll. The imposing Blue Hall becomes a battleground of its own, where words carry as much weight as swords. Lanz excels in crafting suspenseful political dynamics, ensuring that every decision has lasting consequences.
The Cost of Command
Levas’s downfall serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes in the Red Kingdom’s power struggles. His miscalculations during the city’s attack—particularly his absence during a critical moment—bring his leadership into question. The mysterious actions of his officer, Orsond, and the discovery of an explosive device only deepen the intrigue, leaving readers to wonder about the true sources of betrayal. Lanz builds tension masterfully, ensuring that the stakes continue to rise as the novel progresses.
A Clash Between Authority and Rebellion
As the dust settles on Levas’s failed leadership, the city braces for further unrest. Odriss, a powerful figure in the council, condemns Levas’s actions, leading to his swift dismissal. Yet, the greater question remains: is the rebellion truly over, or is the kingdom on the verge of an even greater upheaval? Lanz’s gripping storytelling ensures that readers are left with an uneasy sense of anticipation, eager to see how the battle for power and justice will unfold. "The Way of Stones" is a masterfully crafted sequel that delves deep into the human cost of war, the weight of leadership, and the enduring fight for freedom.
In a world irrevocably changed, old loyalties crumble as individuals grapple with the fallout of the failed attack on Abalreen. Phessipi's rebel band is fractured, struggling to regroup under the looming threat of The Order's revenge. Meanwhile, Levas, once a respected Lord Commander, is now a fugitive yearning for the past, and Rhael, a former hunter of the Corrupted now burdened with newfound abilities, faces a moral dilemma when tasked with a mission that could betray his own kind, highlighting the inevitable casualties of the fight for survival.
A Riveting Sequel of Power and Rebellion
Ryan Lanz’s "The Way of Stones (The Red Kingdom Book 2)" immerses readers in a dark and politically charged fantasy world where power is wielded mercilessly, and survival demands courage. The story unfolds through the eyes of young Jaheim, whose life is shattered when he witnesses the brutal execution of three individuals—one of them being his older brother, Gienvon—accused of possessing dangerous abilities. This harrowing experience catapults Jaheim into a world filled with fear, oppression, and a relentless struggle against the ruling Order. As he navigates his grief and newfound awareness of his brother’s hidden past, Lanz masterfully sets the stage for an emotionally gripping tale of loss, defiance, and the fight for justice.
A Kingdom on the Brink of Collapse
Beyond Jaheim’s perspective, the novel expands to explore the broader turmoil within the Red Kingdom, particularly among those with supernatural abilities. Rhael and his companions, still reeling from a violent battle, find themselves facing an uncertain future. The introduction of Bendrish adds a poignant layer to the story, emphasizing the deep wounds of familial loss in the wake of conflict. Lanz paints a vivid picture of a fractured society, where alliances are fragile, and survival depends on trust, strategy, and the willingness to sacrifice. Through his diverse cast of characters, the novel explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the harsh realities of power in a world teetering on the edge of destruction.
Leadership Under Siege
As tensions mount, the burden of leadership weighs heavily on Phessipi, a key figure within the resistance. She grapples with the consequences of past failures, torn between self-doubt and the necessity of pushing forward. A tense discussion with Wayland and Cilatia reveals the emotional toll of leadership, particularly as they mourn fallen comrades like Yungiri. Lanz skillfully weaves internal struggles with external threats, highlighting the complex interplay of personal grief and the larger cause. The raw emotions and ethical dilemmas faced by the leaders add depth to the narrative, making their victories and losses feel all the more profound.
Political Intrigue and Deception
While battles rage on the battlefield, political manoeuvring unfolds in the shadows. Levas, a commander under house arrest after a devastating attack, finds himself trapped in a game of power and betrayal. His conversations with Ariwald peel back the layers of distrust and hidden agendas, reinforcing the novel’s exploration of war’s psychological toll. The imposing Blue Hall becomes a battleground of its own, where words carry as much weight as swords. Lanz excels in crafting suspenseful political dynamics, ensuring that every decision has lasting consequences.
The Cost of Command
Levas’s downfall serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes in the Red Kingdom’s power struggles. His miscalculations during the city’s attack—particularly his absence during a critical moment—bring his leadership into question. The mysterious actions of his officer, Orsond, and the discovery of an explosive device only deepen the intrigue, leaving readers to wonder about the true sources of betrayal. Lanz builds tension masterfully, ensuring that the stakes continue to rise as the novel progresses.
A Clash Between Authority and Rebellion
As the dust settles on Levas’s failed leadership, the city braces for further unrest. Odriss, a powerful figure in the council, condemns Levas’s actions, leading to his swift dismissal. Yet, the greater question remains: is the rebellion truly over, or is the kingdom on the verge of an even greater upheaval? Lanz’s gripping storytelling ensures that readers are left with an uneasy sense of anticipation, eager to see how the battle for power and justice will unfold. "The Way of Stones" is a masterfully crafted sequel that delves deep into the human cost of war, the weight of leadership, and the enduring fight for freedom.
January 28, 2025
Dear reader. Are you looking to continue the saga of The Red Kingdom? Curious as to what the aftermath of the attack on Abalreen has yielded? Curious as to who is still among the living and who has been lost? The journey continues in author Ryan Lanz’s The Way of Stones.
The Way of Stones draws the eye of readers with a cover depicting the main character deep in a forest. Ahead of him, breaking through the trees is a shaft of sunlight. It is bringing a small amount of light to this dark forest scene. All around Rhael are trees with the roots of one sitting high above the ground. Rhael is depicted on guard with his cloak being drawn behind him by a strong wind.
As readers further gaze at the cover of The Way of Stones we see that Rhael’s left hand holds a long sword at the ready. His ability manifests itself in his right hand which is not just aglow with a lick of flame, but is ablaze. This forest scene gives the sense that a battle is imminent. While a foe is not in sight, it gives readers the sense that a fight is coming, and that Rhael feels the need to be prepared.
As The Way of Stones begins to unfold author Lanz kicks things off with a prologue. This prologue introduces a character who made a “glancing” appearance in book one, The Silver Crystal. This new character, Jaheim, is a child when we meet him at the beginning of The Way of Stones. Something heartbreakingly terrible is set to unfold. Author Lanz conveys this sense to readers through the gathering of the people of the town. But there are a multitude of clues that are dropped that Jaheim has failed to take note of.
What unfolds in the prologue for The Way of Stones gives readers a clue as to why Jaheim did what he did during the fight inside of Abalreen. His future is shaped by a tragic moment in his past that can never be undone. But one that he will fear the consequences of moving forward as The Way of Stones continues to unfold.
Author Lanz leaves Jaheim with the past for a minute as he transitions back to more familiar characters in The Way of Stones. Readers are reunited with Rhael who is currently still in Abalreen. It's not exactly the best place to be after all of the chaos that unfolded in The Silver Crystal. However, Rhael, Gobo, and Bendrish are still, for all intents and purposes, “trapped” inside the city.
Author Lanz has not moved the story along more than a few days after the ill-fated attack on Abalreen. Rhael and company are currently holed up in his deceased friend’s home. For now, only they know the fate of the owner of the house, and so are taking advantage of this fact. With food running low, Rhael must come up with a plan of what to do next. Staying in the city after the chaos of the “battle” is ill-advised.
Of course, with the increased guard presence, and dealing with the current issues at hand – primarily food running low – Rhael is going to have quite the task ahead of him finding more. The Way of Stones will, unfortunately, show to Rhael that “friendship” is a fragile thing. Readers will hope for the best along with Rhael in a particular scene that will unfold but will be brought back to reality by a harsh truth.
Rhael isn’t the sole character that author Lanz will draw readers’ attention to. Once again in The Way of Stones, readers are given a wide cast of characters, and every couple of chapters will see a shift to each one in turn.
Phessipi managed to escape Abalreen at the end of The Silver Crystal. Her ill-fated plan to attack the city resulted in major losses for her group. Now, in The Way of Stone,s she is struggling with the guilt of her failure. She believes those left behind are dead or worse. Author Lanz portrays Phessipi as continuing to mourn the loss of the man she loved from book one.
Her people need her, but for a time she is lost to her pain. Of course, this creates a vacuum. Her people still rely on her, but another, Mulvah, is tired of witnessing Phessipi’s “weakness” and lack of action. Readers will view Mulvah as a morally gray character. Author Lanz portrays her this way throughout The Way of Sones because of future interactions with specific characters from The Order. Mulvah will claim she cares about the other ability users, but what do her actions show?
Wonder what happened with Levas? Well, brace for outrage, because author Lanz is making sure that readers are thoroughly outraged with how he is treated in The Way of Stones. We won’t drop any spoilers here, but Levas’s entire life is about to be ripped away from him in a truly unjust way. On a level, Levas will disappoint with his reactions, but author Lanz will keep readers gripped with what unfolds next.
The Way of Stones is an engaging and well-written addition to the Red Kingdom series. Where The Silver Crystal sets the stage and the groundwork for what is to come, The Way of Stones picks up the ball and really runs with it. Author Lanz writes detailed chapters that focus on one of the primarily selected characters. Each character and chapter brings something enticing and engaging to the storyline of this book. Readers will feel motivated to find out what happens next.
The more that The Way of Stones unfolds readers won’t be able to resist wondering – who can these characters truly trust? Rhael is being propositioned for a chance to save his own skin. Will he take it? Mulvah is given a similar proposition, but with her own history with The Order, will she be foolish enough to trust them? Rhael is struggling with his ability to flicker in and out of existence. What does it mean? Can he find the answers?
The deeper this novel goes, the more questions that will arise. The drama builds beautifully throughout The Way of Stones. Author Lanz writes believable characters that draw readers in, and will have them choosing sides of who to cheer for concerning their success. There will be close calls for several of the characters throughout this book. It will literally pull you to the edge of your seat.
The amount of fantasy in The Way of Stones is higher than what readers will have gotten in Book One, The Silver Crystal. Readers looking for more magic will absolutely appreciate that we’re getting more in this installment of the series. Seeing that magic is now such an integral part of Rhael’s life especially this makes sense.
Readers should be forewarned there is a mild cliffhanger at the end of The Way of Stones. It’s not a big one, but you become so engrossed in the story that you forget it’s coming to an end until you “stumble” past the last page. We blame Gobo for this. LOL! He’s such a mixed bag of a character, but he brings a nice amount of humor to this book. He’s mildly featured more prominently towards the end, and so as we’re drawn in further, the story comes to an end, for now.
There is a lot going on in The Way of Stones. Secrets are coming to light. Agendas are being laid, and allegiances are being drawn. How well these allegiances will stand is anyone’s guess, but if it’s an ability user aligning with a non-user, well, we can all guess how that will end.
Author Lanz has written a detailed and engaging novel that will draw readers in with his attention to detail and riveting storytelling. There will be new characters to discover and old ones to reunite with. One thing is for sure, and that is that something big is coming and we look forward to finding out what exactly it is.
Readers who enjoy fantasy novels will absolutely not want to miss out on the continuation of the Red Kingdom series with The Way of Stones. With the magical elements becoming more integral concerning the storyline this book will lure readers in with a gripping storyline, riveting details, and intriguing characters.
Pros:
Engaging
Well-written storyline
Interesting characters
Twists and surprise revelations
Good character development
Cons:
None of merit
Cover Score: 9.4/10
Overall Book Score: 9.8/10
The Way of Stones draws the eye of readers with a cover depicting the main character deep in a forest. Ahead of him, breaking through the trees is a shaft of sunlight. It is bringing a small amount of light to this dark forest scene. All around Rhael are trees with the roots of one sitting high above the ground. Rhael is depicted on guard with his cloak being drawn behind him by a strong wind.
As readers further gaze at the cover of The Way of Stones we see that Rhael’s left hand holds a long sword at the ready. His ability manifests itself in his right hand which is not just aglow with a lick of flame, but is ablaze. This forest scene gives the sense that a battle is imminent. While a foe is not in sight, it gives readers the sense that a fight is coming, and that Rhael feels the need to be prepared.
As The Way of Stones begins to unfold author Lanz kicks things off with a prologue. This prologue introduces a character who made a “glancing” appearance in book one, The Silver Crystal. This new character, Jaheim, is a child when we meet him at the beginning of The Way of Stones. Something heartbreakingly terrible is set to unfold. Author Lanz conveys this sense to readers through the gathering of the people of the town. But there are a multitude of clues that are dropped that Jaheim has failed to take note of.
What unfolds in the prologue for The Way of Stones gives readers a clue as to why Jaheim did what he did during the fight inside of Abalreen. His future is shaped by a tragic moment in his past that can never be undone. But one that he will fear the consequences of moving forward as The Way of Stones continues to unfold.
Author Lanz leaves Jaheim with the past for a minute as he transitions back to more familiar characters in The Way of Stones. Readers are reunited with Rhael who is currently still in Abalreen. It's not exactly the best place to be after all of the chaos that unfolded in The Silver Crystal. However, Rhael, Gobo, and Bendrish are still, for all intents and purposes, “trapped” inside the city.
Author Lanz has not moved the story along more than a few days after the ill-fated attack on Abalreen. Rhael and company are currently holed up in his deceased friend’s home. For now, only they know the fate of the owner of the house, and so are taking advantage of this fact. With food running low, Rhael must come up with a plan of what to do next. Staying in the city after the chaos of the “battle” is ill-advised.
Of course, with the increased guard presence, and dealing with the current issues at hand – primarily food running low – Rhael is going to have quite the task ahead of him finding more. The Way of Stones will, unfortunately, show to Rhael that “friendship” is a fragile thing. Readers will hope for the best along with Rhael in a particular scene that will unfold but will be brought back to reality by a harsh truth.
Rhael isn’t the sole character that author Lanz will draw readers’ attention to. Once again in The Way of Stones, readers are given a wide cast of characters, and every couple of chapters will see a shift to each one in turn.
Phessipi managed to escape Abalreen at the end of The Silver Crystal. Her ill-fated plan to attack the city resulted in major losses for her group. Now, in The Way of Stone,s she is struggling with the guilt of her failure. She believes those left behind are dead or worse. Author Lanz portrays Phessipi as continuing to mourn the loss of the man she loved from book one.
Her people need her, but for a time she is lost to her pain. Of course, this creates a vacuum. Her people still rely on her, but another, Mulvah, is tired of witnessing Phessipi’s “weakness” and lack of action. Readers will view Mulvah as a morally gray character. Author Lanz portrays her this way throughout The Way of Sones because of future interactions with specific characters from The Order. Mulvah will claim she cares about the other ability users, but what do her actions show?
Wonder what happened with Levas? Well, brace for outrage, because author Lanz is making sure that readers are thoroughly outraged with how he is treated in The Way of Stones. We won’t drop any spoilers here, but Levas’s entire life is about to be ripped away from him in a truly unjust way. On a level, Levas will disappoint with his reactions, but author Lanz will keep readers gripped with what unfolds next.
The Way of Stones is an engaging and well-written addition to the Red Kingdom series. Where The Silver Crystal sets the stage and the groundwork for what is to come, The Way of Stones picks up the ball and really runs with it. Author Lanz writes detailed chapters that focus on one of the primarily selected characters. Each character and chapter brings something enticing and engaging to the storyline of this book. Readers will feel motivated to find out what happens next.
The more that The Way of Stones unfolds readers won’t be able to resist wondering – who can these characters truly trust? Rhael is being propositioned for a chance to save his own skin. Will he take it? Mulvah is given a similar proposition, but with her own history with The Order, will she be foolish enough to trust them? Rhael is struggling with his ability to flicker in and out of existence. What does it mean? Can he find the answers?
The deeper this novel goes, the more questions that will arise. The drama builds beautifully throughout The Way of Stones. Author Lanz writes believable characters that draw readers in, and will have them choosing sides of who to cheer for concerning their success. There will be close calls for several of the characters throughout this book. It will literally pull you to the edge of your seat.
The amount of fantasy in The Way of Stones is higher than what readers will have gotten in Book One, The Silver Crystal. Readers looking for more magic will absolutely appreciate that we’re getting more in this installment of the series. Seeing that magic is now such an integral part of Rhael’s life especially this makes sense.
Readers should be forewarned there is a mild cliffhanger at the end of The Way of Stones. It’s not a big one, but you become so engrossed in the story that you forget it’s coming to an end until you “stumble” past the last page. We blame Gobo for this. LOL! He’s such a mixed bag of a character, but he brings a nice amount of humor to this book. He’s mildly featured more prominently towards the end, and so as we’re drawn in further, the story comes to an end, for now.
There is a lot going on in The Way of Stones. Secrets are coming to light. Agendas are being laid, and allegiances are being drawn. How well these allegiances will stand is anyone’s guess, but if it’s an ability user aligning with a non-user, well, we can all guess how that will end.
Author Lanz has written a detailed and engaging novel that will draw readers in with his attention to detail and riveting storytelling. There will be new characters to discover and old ones to reunite with. One thing is for sure, and that is that something big is coming and we look forward to finding out what exactly it is.
Readers who enjoy fantasy novels will absolutely not want to miss out on the continuation of the Red Kingdom series with The Way of Stones. With the magical elements becoming more integral concerning the storyline this book will lure readers in with a gripping storyline, riveting details, and intriguing characters.
Pros:
Engaging
Well-written storyline
Interesting characters
Twists and surprise revelations
Good character development
Cons:
None of merit
Cover Score: 9.4/10
Overall Book Score: 9.8/10
September 4, 2025
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.
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.
May 5, 2025
The Review
As with the first book in the series, this novel did an incredible job of world-building, not only with the world readers were introduced to in the first book, but also with the new faces and places that readers became acquainted with in this novel. The slow, methodical pacing allowed the author to draw the reader into this narrative, and the rich dynamic between the political nature behind the divisiveness of this kingdom, the power moves those in power make, and the fantasy mythos the world embraces wholeheartedly, made this narrative shine.
The standout moments of this novel came in the character development that transpired throughout this narrative. Readers get multiple perspectives throughout this book from characters like Rhael and his allies as they struggle in the aftermath of such a brutal battle. He remains conflicted about his new reality, and Phessipi’s struggles in the wake of such a monumental loss, the author did a masterful job of reconnecting readers with the characters of this series. Yet it also served to introduce new perspectives and engage with new readers, such as the introduction of Jaheim’s story and how his perspective introduced the theme of loss, hidden secrets, and how war impacts those caught in the crosshairs.
The Verdict
Memorable, heart-pounding, and entertaining, author Ryan Lanz’s “The Way of Stones” is a great way to delve back into the Red Kingdom series and a must-read fantasy story. The twists and turns that come and the rich mythos this unique fantasy world builds upon will keep readers thrilled and eager for the next entry in the series.
As with the first book in the series, this novel did an incredible job of world-building, not only with the world readers were introduced to in the first book, but also with the new faces and places that readers became acquainted with in this novel. The slow, methodical pacing allowed the author to draw the reader into this narrative, and the rich dynamic between the political nature behind the divisiveness of this kingdom, the power moves those in power make, and the fantasy mythos the world embraces wholeheartedly, made this narrative shine.
The standout moments of this novel came in the character development that transpired throughout this narrative. Readers get multiple perspectives throughout this book from characters like Rhael and his allies as they struggle in the aftermath of such a brutal battle. He remains conflicted about his new reality, and Phessipi’s struggles in the wake of such a monumental loss, the author did a masterful job of reconnecting readers with the characters of this series. Yet it also served to introduce new perspectives and engage with new readers, such as the introduction of Jaheim’s story and how his perspective introduced the theme of loss, hidden secrets, and how war impacts those caught in the crosshairs.
The Verdict
Memorable, heart-pounding, and entertaining, author Ryan Lanz’s “The Way of Stones” is a great way to delve back into the Red Kingdom series and a must-read fantasy story. The twists and turns that come and the rich mythos this unique fantasy world builds upon will keep readers thrilled and eager for the next entry in the series.
May 31, 2025
The Way Of Stones is the second book in The Red Kingdom series. The author has written such an intriguing book that really draws the reader into the story. From the detailed world building to the unique and quite fun characters this is an adventure that you don't want to end.
I honestly don't usually read books with as many pages as these books are. However this series is worth the read. I have only read the first two books so far but I want to read the entire series for sure. I love the story and the characters. The first book really drew me into such a fun adventure and this second book was just as good but I would say even better than the first one!
The story continues to follow the characters from the previous book but we also get to meet some new and maybe forgotten characters. I really enjoy reading about the characters Gobo and Levas. They don't interact with each other in this book as they are involved in other story lines. However they each bring their personality to the for front in the story. Every adventure that Gobo is involved in is so much fun and he makes me laugh throughout. Levas on the other hand has a completely different story and is really just trying to survive and make his way back to his city of Abalreen. He comes across so many challenges and close moments that I was on the edge of my seat each time the story was focused back on him.
There are so many other characters and so much story to tell. The story is a slow build just like the first book but there is also a lot of action and suspenseful moments. I highly recommend reading this series!
I honestly don't usually read books with as many pages as these books are. However this series is worth the read. I have only read the first two books so far but I want to read the entire series for sure. I love the story and the characters. The first book really drew me into such a fun adventure and this second book was just as good but I would say even better than the first one!
The story continues to follow the characters from the previous book but we also get to meet some new and maybe forgotten characters. I really enjoy reading about the characters Gobo and Levas. They don't interact with each other in this book as they are involved in other story lines. However they each bring their personality to the for front in the story. Every adventure that Gobo is involved in is so much fun and he makes me laugh throughout. Levas on the other hand has a completely different story and is really just trying to survive and make his way back to his city of Abalreen. He comes across so many challenges and close moments that I was on the edge of my seat each time the story was focused back on him.
There are so many other characters and so much story to tell. The story is a slow build just like the first book but there is also a lot of action and suspenseful moments. I highly recommend reading this series!
April 15, 2025
It's not about the destination, Rhael. It's about the friends you make along the way. -Gobo, in his ultimate wisdom.
The Way of Stones is the second in The Red Kingdom series, and gets a solid 5 stars from me. I think the author is amazing at the build up on the plot for our protagonists. The new developments are all little puzzle pieces that are slowly falling into place, and I'm so excited to see where it leads to in book 3!
Levas got a lot of screen time in this book, and I really love the honorbound Paladin types. He is a great character, but a few things that happen in this book are giving me extra questions instead of more answers.
Rhael is still a great character to me, and his consideration for others around him is only growing and making him a more compassionate human. I'm really loving that development!
Gobo will always be my favorite though. :)
Ultimately, this installment in the series is a big lead up for the next book and had me turning each page as fast as I could read the words.
Big thanks to the Ryan Lanz for providing a copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review.
The Way of Stones is the second in The Red Kingdom series, and gets a solid 5 stars from me. I think the author is amazing at the build up on the plot for our protagonists. The new developments are all little puzzle pieces that are slowly falling into place, and I'm so excited to see where it leads to in book 3!
Levas got a lot of screen time in this book, and I really love the honorbound Paladin types. He is a great character, but a few things that happen in this book are giving me extra questions instead of more answers.
Rhael is still a great character to me, and his consideration for others around him is only growing and making him a more compassionate human. I'm really loving that development!
Gobo will always be my favorite though. :)
Ultimately, this installment in the series is a big lead up for the next book and had me turning each page as fast as I could read the words.
Big thanks to the Ryan Lanz for providing a copy of the e-book in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2025
I enjoyed book one. The first 20% of that book introduced us to this intriguing world and magic structure. The rest of that book and whole second book did little to nothing to flesh either out.
This series is solid if you make no attempt to peel back this top layer of story, because sadly, there'd be nothing there if you did. This book was aggravating. It was all build-up to a battle that didn't happen. There were was no culminating moment(s). Just set-up. Set-up with, again, little done to explain any motivations or lore.
I like the characters, but the number of times I internally screamed "how old is (insert any MAIN character here)?" was too high to count. While, yes, peoples' ages isn't super important, it was a shining testament to how little world-building was here.
What happened to the monarchy? How did The Order seize power? Why are people with abilities outlawed? Why is this all happening in a seemingly 3hr radius, but yet so much exists in said seemingly very small space? Why do these crystals do what they do and how was that figured out?
The reader shouldn't have a paper-thin view of a world two books in. Aggravating.
This series is solid if you make no attempt to peel back this top layer of story, because sadly, there'd be nothing there if you did. This book was aggravating. It was all build-up to a battle that didn't happen. There were was no culminating moment(s). Just set-up. Set-up with, again, little done to explain any motivations or lore.
I like the characters, but the number of times I internally screamed "how old is (insert any MAIN character here)?" was too high to count. While, yes, peoples' ages isn't super important, it was a shining testament to how little world-building was here.
What happened to the monarchy? How did The Order seize power? Why are people with abilities outlawed? Why is this all happening in a seemingly 3hr radius, but yet so much exists in said seemingly very small space? Why do these crystals do what they do and how was that figured out?
The reader shouldn't have a paper-thin view of a world two books in. Aggravating.
January 28, 2025
The Way of Stones continues Rhael’s story, and believe us when we say this – things are really getting interesting. The “battle” of Abalreen left the city in chaos and Phessipi and her group fractured. Rhael and Gobo managed to survive their fight, but now they find themselves stuck in a city that is no longer friendly to Rhael. Levas found himself incapacitated at the end of book one, and he’s about to have his whole life turned upside down. Sounds pretty wild, right?
Well, things just keep getting more interesting from there. Get ready to be pulled to the edge of your seat as new characters are introduced, and situations get more intense. The man running Abalreen vows revenge for what has happened to the city, and he intends to get it one way or another. The pieces of this dangerous game of chess are in play, and we can’t wait to find out how it all plays out.
Well, things just keep getting more interesting from there. Get ready to be pulled to the edge of your seat as new characters are introduced, and situations get more intense. The man running Abalreen vows revenge for what has happened to the city, and he intends to get it one way or another. The pieces of this dangerous game of chess are in play, and we can’t wait to find out how it all plays out.
August 13, 2025
Almost every question I had was answered. Ryan still kills it when writing his characters. I seriously can't get enough. I could read his dialogue all day.
This installment took what I loved from the first book and enhanced it. Gobo is still funny and an all around delight. I will say, as big as the world is, it still seems pretty small right now. That's not a bad thing. It actually helps make my image of the locations more vivid. I like the slower paced build up with just enough excitement and mystery to keep me invested not just into the story, but the world itself.
There were a few scenes that were pretty emotionally taxing, and I need more of that.
There were some resolutions, but those gave way to more questions and rose even more theories.
Overall I loved this book. I enjoyed it more than The Silver Crystal and can't wait to dive into the next book.
This installment took what I loved from the first book and enhanced it. Gobo is still funny and an all around delight. I will say, as big as the world is, it still seems pretty small right now. That's not a bad thing. It actually helps make my image of the locations more vivid. I like the slower paced build up with just enough excitement and mystery to keep me invested not just into the story, but the world itself.
There were a few scenes that were pretty emotionally taxing, and I need more of that.
There were some resolutions, but those gave way to more questions and rose even more theories.
Overall I loved this book. I enjoyed it more than The Silver Crystal and can't wait to dive into the next book.
November 6, 2025
A great continuation of the first book in the series.
Rhael tries to find where he fits in the world since discovering his ability.
Levas' world falls apart and tensions rise as he defies Odriss to try to put the pieces back together.
Phessipi has to balance her healing journey with the failure of the attack on Abalreen and leading the rebels.
I really liked the character development in this one. Particularly with the antagonist.
I like that Phessipi is a strong female character who isn't perfect. She has moments of weakness and doubt and selfishness. But I'm really enjoying her healing journey after the loss of her love. And there's a new love interest that I'm really looking forward to seeing where it goes.
Rhael tries to find where he fits in the world since discovering his ability.
Levas' world falls apart and tensions rise as he defies Odriss to try to put the pieces back together.
Phessipi has to balance her healing journey with the failure of the attack on Abalreen and leading the rebels.
I really liked the character development in this one. Particularly with the antagonist.
I like that Phessipi is a strong female character who isn't perfect. She has moments of weakness and doubt and selfishness. But I'm really enjoying her healing journey after the loss of her love. And there's a new love interest that I'm really looking forward to seeing where it goes.
June 18, 2025
An exciting continuation of The Red Kingdom series. Rhael is drawn even deeper into a world he never dreamed he would be a part of, and Gobo provides a lot of humor as his loyal companion. Phessipi faces serious tests as a leader, and Levas emerges as perhaps the book's most intriguing character—I found myself being very invested in his struggle to reclaim what he has lost. There are also a host of new, compelling characters whose aspirations and troubles provide interesting twists to the complex, interlocking plot. I think fans of Michael Wisehart's Aldoran Chronicles would enjoy this series.
October 20, 2025
I enjoyed the continued journey of Rhael and Gobo! Their banter was still entertaining to me. They now have Bendrish tagging along as part of their group, and I have to say, she is not bringing anything useful to the table (yet?). This book told the story mainly from five different characters perspectives, which I thought kept the book engaging. The pacing of book 2 seemed quicker than book 1, maybe because of this. You are engaged in the story of Rhael, Phesippi, Levas, Odriss and Mulvah. All of their paths are intertwined and their stories slowly being revealed. The story will continue into book 3, which I am looking forward to, to see if any of my predictions come true!
May 23, 2025
Book 2 of the series was a little slow moving for me. However, I really appreciated the character work. More characters were added to the roster, including a more definite villain who seems really compelling. However, it’s hard to see where the plot lines will eventually intersect due to the slow pacing. But it’s nice to be able to leisurely sink into a work and really work with the characters and I enjoyed the book very much overall! If you enjoy beefy epic fantasy, it’s worth it to check it out!
February 4, 2025
With Gobo at his side for comic relief, Rhael embarks on a wild journey where new perils lurk around each corner—torn between his old life as a bounty hunter for The Order and his new connection with the Corrupted. The story moves at a steady pace, surprising the reader with sudden twists and turns. It is a must-read for all fantasy lovers.
September 14, 2025
I’m giving 5 stars because this world has so much to give, the connections you get to all the characters are so good. There is so much variety and who knows where this story is heading. Can’t wait to read the next one.
September 17, 2025
Way of Stones is the second entry in Ryan Lanz’s Red Kingdom series, continuing the aftermath of the failed attack on Abalreen. Unlike the first book, which leaned heavily on action and fast-paced conflict, this installment slows down to explore the consequences of those battles and the shifting paths of its three central characters—Phessipi, Levas, and Rhael.
Phessipi struggles to lead her fractured band of rebels while searching for missing allies. Levas, once a proud Lord Commander, now finds himself disgraced and on the run, desperate to reclaim his place and honor. Rhael’s arc remains one of the most compelling: once a hunter of the Corrupted, he must now live with the stigma of becoming one himself, torn between survival, loyalty, and betrayal.
The story unfolds more deliberately than its predecessor. While the reduced action and slower pacing may not appeal to readers expecting nonstop battles, this book invests in character growth, inner conflict, and worldbuilding. The sense of adventure is still alive through the characters’ travels and shifting alliances, and the groundwork laid here hints at bigger confrontations to come. The cliffhanger ending also sets the stage for more intensity in the next volume.
Overall, Way of Stones feels like a transitional book in the series: less flashy than the opener, but important for fleshing out motivations, loyalties, and the cost of survival. It rewards patient readers who enjoy deeper character development and sets up the potential for an even stronger continuation.
Phessipi struggles to lead her fractured band of rebels while searching for missing allies. Levas, once a proud Lord Commander, now finds himself disgraced and on the run, desperate to reclaim his place and honor. Rhael’s arc remains one of the most compelling: once a hunter of the Corrupted, he must now live with the stigma of becoming one himself, torn between survival, loyalty, and betrayal.
The story unfolds more deliberately than its predecessor. While the reduced action and slower pacing may not appeal to readers expecting nonstop battles, this book invests in character growth, inner conflict, and worldbuilding. The sense of adventure is still alive through the characters’ travels and shifting alliances, and the groundwork laid here hints at bigger confrontations to come. The cliffhanger ending also sets the stage for more intensity in the next volume.
Overall, Way of Stones feels like a transitional book in the series: less flashy than the opener, but important for fleshing out motivations, loyalties, and the cost of survival. It rewards patient readers who enjoy deeper character development and sets up the potential for an even stronger continuation.
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