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Luthiel's Song #2

The War of Mists

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She chose to die in her sister's place and yet she lived. Luthiel, just 15 years old, made a brave peace with the dreaded Vyrl of the Vale of Mists. Now she must face an army sent to destroy them. With her companions -- the werewolf Othalas, the dragon Melkion, the sorcerer Mithorden, a Vyrl named Ecthellien, and the elf Vaelros who would love her -- Luthiel races back to the angry faelands to beg forgiveness for monsters. Who, if any, will survive the journey? For the Vale is surrounded by the webs of Widdershae, and the only other path leads to the Red Moon -- where an ancient evil waits in the flames. Beyond the Vale, the home she left is not the same. Armies march for vengeance. Powers play their hands in a game of ages. In the sky something evil stirs. Rumors of a dark prophecy. Whispers of a "Blood Witch." And signs foretelling an ancient doom terrible enough to destroy worlds.

364 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2008

18 people are currently reading
905 people want to read

About the author

Robert Fanney

4 books741 followers
Robert Fannéy was born on November 4, 1972 in Southeastern Virginia. He lived in Virginia Beach, VA for much of his younger life and currently resides in Washington Grove, MD with his wife, Catherine, and two talkative Maine Coon cats.

The scenic Seashore State Park and the frothy Atlantic Ocean bordered Robert's world as a child. Ever changing and full of mystery, both were an inspiration to Robert as he set out to create the fantastic settings of Oesha and the Vale of Mists. A surfer since a very young age, Robert has felt a deep connection with nature and finds that his most spiritual times are while sitting on a tiny surfboard upon a vast ocean or laying on the sand beneath an even vaster sea of stars.

As a teen, Robert often wrote short stories and poems about his adventures. He made frequent trips to the library and book store and read widely. Some of his favorite books were Michael Ende's The Neverending Story, Peter S. Beagle's The Last Unicorn, Susan Cooper's The Dark is Rising, Roger Zelazney's Chronicles of Amber, and Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain.

Robert was also inspired by the strong women in his life and, while attending the gothic Flagler College in St. Augustine, FL, (1991-1995) he began writing a female epic fantasy which he later named Luthiel's Song. Despite numerous hardships, Robert continued to write throughout much of his adult life. He worked at a number of different jobs -- waiting tables, serving as a police officer, and even working as a coordinating editor and author for a well known niche publisher -- Jane's Information Group. During his time at Jane's Robert edited and contributed to over 15 books and magazines and co-authored Jane's Citizen Safety Guide.

Robert was able to put his experience -- both in writing and in life -- to good use and finally, after nine years, Robert had a completed first novel. With the help of his friend Matthew Friedman, an amazing artist by the name of Siya Oum, and his wife Catherine, Robert decided to publish independently. He started a boutique publishing house named Dark Forest Press and in six months produced a professional quality fantasy novel (2005).

Robert then set out to promote the book himself, beginning with online promotion and talks at local venues. By 2011, Robert had given over 300 presentations at libraries, schools, and bookstores, appeared on local and national television including CSPAN's BookTV and independently sold over 32,000 copies.

Robert has also recently completed book 2 in the Luthiel's Song series -- The War of Mists -- and is now working on book 3 -- The Nightmares of Winter.

If you'd like to find out more about Luthiel's Song, you may do so by visiting these websites:

www.luthielssong.com
www.facebook.com/luthielssong
www.myspace.com/luthielssong

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5 stars
248 (52%)
4 stars
124 (26%)
3 stars
76 (16%)
2 stars
19 (4%)
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6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Profile Image for Gayle.
2 reviews
July 29, 2009
I just finished the book yesterday, and it was fabulous!! An action-packed additional chapter to Luthiel's life that leaves you wanting more! I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment! The introductory book was wonderful and this sequel did not disappoint! It is delightful to watch Luthiel maturing, as well as watching the development of the terrific supporting characters around her. Keep scribbling, Rob! I'm hooked!
Profile Image for Casey.
2 reviews
July 29, 2009
Luthiel's Song: The War of Mists was an enchanting book that you could never put down. Luthiel had to go through so much in little amount of time. Facing Zalos, the man that held her mother prisoner for centuries, being called the blood witch, and her friends dieing for her. Plus learning how to go into the dreams of others and learing that she has become queen. Luthiel then has to choose who to love. I hope the next book comes out soon so I could see what happens when Luthiel is trialed of witchcraft.
Profile Image for Kate.
2 reviews6 followers
July 29, 2009
This second installment in the Luthiel's Song epic explores deeper the conflict between the feminine and the masculine. Luthiel has saved and redeemed demons only to bear the blame for their past mis-deeds and to be called a witch. As the entire land of elves and fairies is ripped asunder, she must confront a dark and stunningly handsome lord would use the fear of Luthiel to make himself king.

It is an amazing story rife with conflict, action, and a little romance too. The stunning depictions and enchanting scenery will leave you breathless.
Profile Image for JP.
1 review2 followers
July 29, 2009
Just finished this novel and found it to be well worth the wait (two years for me). Amazing story and character development. Plus turns some well-worn fantasy cliches directly on their heads. Won't reveal because I don't want to spoil. Another point is this book has some of the best fantasy dialogue and aphorisms I've run into yet. They have depth and command without sounding archaic. For example, Zalos: 'The world is full of massive things in motion. Little creatures get hurt,' or Mithorden: 'We become what we do, Zalos.' But aside from these fine nuggets, I found the plot to be masterfully constructed and the climax one of amazing scope and power. If you love great fantasy books, you'll definitely have to add this one to your collection.
Profile Image for Shelly.
7 reviews5 followers
July 29, 2009
This second book in the Luthiel's Song series, perhaps, surpasses the first. And this is a very tough thing to do as the first book was one of the best I have ever read. The writing becomes more paced and, if possible, even more fluid and the story itself picks up to multiple crescendos of action, conflict, and, yes, romance too. But more than anything else, I loved the themes in this story. In the end it is a conflict between love and a very grim practicality that loses itself in what must be done. I loved this book. It is both a true faerie tale and true epic.
Profile Image for Ashley Saunders.
9 reviews
July 29, 2009
In this book Luthiel has found out who she is and relationships are starting to bloom! Luthiel decided to help the Vyrl and is now trying to prevent war between the Fae! The widdershae have become more knowlagable in the magical arts as well as becoming more visious. Will Luthiel Succedd? will she ever get used to the Vyrl? read and find out. I have read this book about 10 times and it is bound to be your favorite!
Profile Image for Andrea.
2 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2009
The grand effort that began with "Dreams of the Ringed Vale" grows in scope and intensity throughout this second chapter in the Luthiel's Song series. Luthiel matures but still shows a few hints of endearing innocence through the many hard lessons of this story as the clouds of storm to kill an age gather. Perhaps most striking is the conflict between male and female in the form of Luthiel's clashes with Zalos -- a very chauvinist villain.
Profile Image for Abigail Yow.
146 reviews30 followers
September 21, 2011
I was thoroughly captivated by the prequel and had much hopes that the second book would be just as good or maybe better but sadly, the novel did not live up to my expectation.

The armies of the faelands have finally gathered to put a stop to the Vyrl's requests for chosen sacrifices. Now together with her companions, Luthiel races back to the faelands to convince them about the Vyrl's change of heart or is it too late, with shadows of the Widdershae lurking in the darkness of the Vale of Forest.

I felt too many characters were needlessly thrown into the story to keep the story going. There were just too many names. At times, I found myself wondering what role does he or she play; only to find out later that we would not be seeing him again. While I was glad to see the main characters again, I did not find them as endearing as before. This was probably due to the many interaction between the many characters that the author had introduced.

The writing was consistent and I can see that the author has put a lot effort into creating his own world. Sometimes, a little too much from the look of things. Some parts were difficult to read and dull but other than that, I have no complaints.

After reading this, I'm a bit hesitant to read the sequel. Even so, I have a feeling that I would, just to see how the story would continue after that big cliffhanger.

Profile Image for Mickey.
5 reviews
July 29, 2009
In this book, Luthiel embarks on the second phase of her great adventure that began in the Vale of Mists. After a surprising turn of events that has made Luthiel an ally to monsters, she must now convince the elves to forgive them. But do the dreaded Vyrl even deserve forgiveness? After all, they were responsible for the death of hundreds of innocent elves. Even worse, Luthiel is confronted by her father's old friend and rival -- Zalos. Now Zalos is spreading wicked rumors and dark prophecies about Luthiel. Will she become the villian in the eyes of the elves?

This captivating tale is much deeper and more complex than the first. It is a wonderful development on a great beginning story that is full of unexpected turns and changes. For me it is difficult to chose which I love more. The first book is wonderful to me for its freshness. The second is wonderful for its adventure and its stunning morality.
Profile Image for Elise.
4 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2009
In this volume, Luthiel continues her journey which started as a quest to save the life of her foster sister and best friend. Readers of the first book will enjoy seeing Luthiel develop as she confronts many dangers and troubles. The plotting is fast paced and intense and I was pleasantly surprised at the themes -- very valid to the current day though set in a mythic tale. It is perhaps an understatement to say I love this story and hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
5 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2009
This book is the sequal to "Luthiel's Song Dreams of the Ringed Vale." In the book Luthiel goes on yet another journey but this time she's up against the Evil Fae Lord. by chosing to side with the vyrl she is helping them to stop a war with the Elves of Fae! For the Evil Widdershae are apon them. Will Luthiel ever see her sister again? Will she ever go back to Flir Light? Will she ever live up to her fathers legacy? And.....Will she succeed? Find out in this book!!!!!!!!!
6 reviews2 followers
July 29, 2009
Just finished reading this only three days ago. Absolutely wonderful!! Even better than the first book which I loved immensely.
Profile Image for Rosemary Dreyer.
1,534 reviews6 followers
November 1, 2019
Having read the first book in this series, which I found convoluted and confusing, this book is more clear. Initially, I found the names confusing and the world space was hard to comprehend. Now, by this book, I understood the landscape and the general cast of characters. I applaud the author for trying to give a mythic twist on what can be seen as the battle between good and evil in our own world. Overall, I found interesting but depressing.
Profile Image for Melissa.
10 reviews
November 17, 2025
I dreaded reading this book because I saw people have been waiting for the third one for 10 years or something??? The book gives zero closure, so I'll probably never know how the story ends.
Profile Image for Alexandria.
159 reviews2 followers
June 21, 2011
Fantastic.

From page one we are launched straight into the action and given no time to catch a breath until the last page.

Luthiel continues to be just as strong and as focused as she was during the first novel. And although she has ended up taking on more than she ever thought she would have to – after all she thought she was going to die and now the weight of her people’s survival is resting on her 15 year old shoulders - she faces every obstacle that comes along. (If that doesn’t sound like the ingredients for a great adventure I don’t know what does :)) Her character continues to develop as she grows through every new hurdle that she faces and she even ends up with a certain edge to her that I loved. But, through it all, she still retains a childlike joy of things and that was wonderful. Growing up is not something that happens overnight, although it may seem so at times, and I am glad that this is not the case here.

Luthiel’s relationships with others continue to grow stronger while others fracture as her powers and ‘destiny’ come to light. Some trust her and some don’t – denouncing her as a witch. Her bond with Othalas continues to be my favourite. I love how the surly ancient wolf has a soft spot for her and although he doesn't say it out right he shows by his actions that he cares for her.

Nothing is easy in this book and there are no ‘quick fixes’. Things that seem to happen to make things easy more often than not make things harder and I thought this was brilliant and it kept me reading.

And the superb bit! Luthiel has 2 guys interested in her and she isn't sure she wants either of them! Finally. I personally love that.

There were twists and turns that I did not see coming that made the read all the more worth while.
A wonderful world has been built and I happily lost myself in it for the evening it took me to finish this instalment to Luthiel’s journey. I can’t wait for ‘The Nightmare of Winter’.

Favourite quote – “Each time we ride, I am dancing with you,” she said. “Each draft of air in my face is better than any draught of wine and far more heady."
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,166 reviews87 followers
July 5, 2015
First off let me say while I love novels that can be considered epic fantasy there are few that I love within a few chapters, and there are even fewer that I get attached to and read in only a few days. To me that's a feat that needs to be mentioned and shows the amount of talent that Fanney possesses.
This book is as rich as the first and it gives more life and depth to an already wonderful world. The plot has an interesting twist to it that made it even more interesting. I really enjoyed the direction in which Fanney took the story and how he incorporated the world's myths into the story. It adds even more depth and you get a better feel of how the people of this world see the events and how they feel about Luthiel, the Vyrl and the myths and legends involve. The characters has excellent development over the course of the plot, and you can truly get a feel for how everything has effected them and changed them. I will say that I did loose a favorite character of mine (no I won't say which one) and I nearly cried but I ended up gaining a few more, that while they didn't take his place exactly they did make a place for themselves and will stick with me. Luthiel continues to be a wonder and is just as strong as she was in the first book. I found myself a tad jealous of her strength and bravery in the face of something so large, and I loved when characters make me feel that way.

Overall Fanney did a magnificent job with this book, just as he did with his first. I can't wait for the third one to come out because I'm dying to know what is going to happen.
Profile Image for Deval.
111 reviews11 followers
August 20, 2014
The book picks up where the last one left of. Luthiel has the impossible task ahead of her to convince all of Fealand that the Vyrl have changed and are now their allies. She knows deep down that they are remorseful but how is she to convince everyone else when she herself has moments of doubt. She has to also warn them of a greater danger that seems to be growing. All that is just a small part of the entire story. There is much more that happens, but I don't want to spoil it for anyone. You have to read to find out.

I was a little harsh in my review of the first book because I got annoyed with Luthiel's constant whining. Thankfully it is much less in this book. Luthiel has grown and is more sure of herself. She accepts that what is to happen will happen and she just has to deal with it when it does. I like that attitude, it definitely beats self pity.

The story on the whole matures, it explores darker themes, and in some instance you cannot help but draw obvious parallels to the real world. The writing is gripping and keeps the reader engaged throughout till the end. The characters are more developed and multifaceted. I love the way the author ends the book on a cliff hanger, definitely created an itch for the third book. If you are someone, who likes a good story, based in a fantastical world, with marvelous creatures, magic, adventure and mystery than you will not be disappointed with this. This book won't take your breath away but it will definitely intrigue you and keep you interested and for me that's sometimes enough!
Profile Image for Anna.
317 reviews4 followers
July 2, 2010
I feel a slight hesitation as I write this; I can almost see the rotten tomatoes coming towards my head. Let me begin by saying that Luthiel’s Song is a wonderful story. I really enjoyed “Dreams of the Ringed Vale” and started “War of Mists” without delay. The principals of Fanney’s story continue to develop and grow, but all of the secondary characters seem more and more meaningless as they multiply in number. I sense that Fanney has this unbelievably interesting fantasy world, complete and perfected in his mind, but what he doesn’t do, is bring the reader in with him. This is my own personal opinion, mind you, but I felt left out of the story. As the story progresses, more and more characters are introduced. So many, in fact, I had to continually backtrack to figure out who they were. At the same time the writer tried to make the reader feel emotionally connected with inconsequential characters and/or the loss of them. Because of this, I feel that the author lost a great deal of good “story” amidst the chaos of unimportant clutter. I wish I knew more about the villain. Aside from that, I did enjoy the story. The characters that had sufficient development, I thoroughly fell in love with.
Profile Image for Beth.
3,118 reviews301 followers
May 23, 2012
A war is coming. Luthiel has survived the Vale of the Mist by making a tenuous treaty with the Vyrl. But now the elves that she grown up with are planning to make war with the Vyrl and she rushes home to try and stop the blood shed. Plots are set in motion to take possession of Luthiel’s wyrd stone and the power it wields. Armies march for vengeance but hidden agendas and evil abound, with rumors of a “Blood Witch” and the ending of the world. Luthiel again must rely on herself and her allies to have any hope.

I loved this book! Luthiel is strong, courageous, kind, compassionate, and makes strong, intelligent decisions for herself. You don’t see the whiny, whoa is me attitude. Luthiel acknowledges her problem and faces it head on…a true heroin. There is a great romantic “triangle” and that gives it just enough to wet your taste buds for more. Again, Mr. Fanney captivates his readers with a stunning fantasy world with magnificent characters that you love to love and hate. This is a series that you will re-read again and again! The War of the Mists is a fantastic tale, told by an awesome imagination! I can’t finish my review without mentioning…WHAT A CLIFF HANGER! I want more!
Profile Image for Darcie.
37 reviews3 followers
July 10, 2011
Once again, Robert Marston Fanney has written a marvelously captivating novel. You are pulled into the second half of Luthiel's story from the first word. One feels as if they have become a guardian angel to Luthiel as you read/watch over her during the many adventures and heartaches. If given the opportunity, I would join Luthiel in her quest against the Vale of Mists and the evils it brings.

The imagery, as in the first novel, is entrancing. The picture your mind draws brings you to a wonderful world full of both evil and good. You can easily create in your mind the world in which Luthiel lives.

The ending of the novel is a complete cliff hanger. You are left at the edge of your seat craving to find out what happens next. One now has to patiently wait for the third chapter of Luthiel's life. Great work can not be rushed.

Robert Marston Fanney does a brilliant job of depicting the life experiences of a young lady. He has written a novel to be loved by both females and males of young and old.

I am growing impatient awaiting the sequel.
450 reviews10 followers
December 28, 2022
.More reviews like this one on my blog Snapdragon Alcove

If you don’t hate spiders already then, this book will make you hate spiders. There have been giant spiders in fantasy before. The giant spiders are written in a distinct way.

The beginning starts out interesting. Luthiel and co. are traveling through the Faelands and they end up running into spiders, so they have to back track to this portal that goes to the moon of Cantharus. A moon that is intends heat and there dragons as well. Just so you know, this fantasy world has two sons and eight moons. I imagen the plant is large enough to support the gravitational pull and still sustain life.
Profile Image for Julie.
3,537 reviews51 followers
December 17, 2012
It took me well over a year to get through this one, I think. Usually it was my "waiting-in-line" book to read on my phone, when I didn't have an actual book with me.

The book definitely represents a lot of work on the part of the author. He's really trying to flesh out Luthiel's story and that of the world around her... my problem is just that so much of it felt like other things. I think my least favorite moment was when Rictinno showed up... because all I could picture was Reepicheep, from the Narnia books.

I did not dislike this book. I just felt like, as the Goodreads rating system puts it, "it was ok." I might even read a third book, somewhere well down the road.
Profile Image for Maddie.
198 reviews
April 4, 2013
A lot faster pace than the first book, with a lot of battles, and ended with a big cliffhanger (and the sequel is about 2 years late than schedule). It is a bit difficult to keep up with the large cast of characters and the different names of the world/moon/groups of creatures, etc - makes me missed the more intimate setting presented in its prequel. Luthiel also, to me, becoming less likable - she seems more naive, brash and judgmental in this book - but then I remember that she is supposed to be 15. Anyway, great world setting and description, pacing that keeps me on my toes, and moral dilemmas that I actually find valid and interesting.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
247 reviews18 followers
March 3, 2011
I am seriously disappointed in this book. I had such high hopes and then ... well then. I thought the dialogue was painful and the descriptions were boring and the overiding story was predictable and endless and then it ended, kinda. What is it with books and completely open ended endings? I get that it was part of a trilogy (or more who knows) but when you have YEARS between publication, would it kill the author to just wrap up a few loose ends. I did not enjoy it and I will not be reading the third book.
Profile Image for Kathy.
1 review1 follower
August 17, 2009
After finally getting my hands on this book, I'm not surprised to see why so many people love it. My personal opinion is that it was just fantastic! You get the impression that much thought and hard work went into the story as the unique and interesting characters continue to develop through a brilliant and masterful adventure full of lively twists and stunning surprises. The interplays and dialogues are thoughtful, natural and crackle with delicious energy and the ending will leave you hanging onto the edge of your seat. I can't wait for "The Nightmares of Winter!"

Profile Image for Thisdaydreamer.
14 reviews1 follower
July 14, 2011
This is a wonderful sequel that easily lives up to its fantastic predecessor. Luthiel is a sympathetic and compelling character dealing with a myriad of threats and her own uncertainty and determination to do the right thing, no matter how dangerous. I can't wait for the third book!

Oh, and by the way? Luthiel's Song: Dreams of the Ringed Vale and this one are among the reasons why I am so glad I have a Kindle. I knew that I could get a lot of public domain titles for free, but I hadn't realized that I could get addictive new books like these for such great prices.
Profile Image for Riannon.
285 reviews16 followers
December 31, 2012
I am continuing to enjoy the series as it progresses. I really enjoy how different the setting feels from earth, with its climate, moons, etc. I am hoping we get more details on those in the third book. The character development of the main character is well done; I appreciate that she grows more powerful without becoming seemingly invincible (as so many main characters do in fantasy novels). Very interested to see how it all plays out and looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Profile Image for Iris.
392 reviews15 followers
May 20, 2018
Een verrassend plot en een goed doordachte, fantastisch gecreëerde wereld. De hoofdpersoon, Luthiel, ontnam me echter aanvankelijk mijn leesplezier. Gelukkig zag ze later een beetje van het licht en vanaf toen werd het pas echt een leuk boek om te lezen.

Ga voor een uitgebreidere recensie naar mijn website!
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