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Wars of Light and Shadow #11
Song of the Mysteries
The hugely anticipated final volume of The Wars of Light and Shadow brings this widely acclaimed, masterful epic fantasy series to its powerful, earth-shattering close.
In the final battle of Light against Shadow, warring factions prepare to meet the bare fist of Arithon’s fury, sparked by the execution of the innocent murdered by divine decree.
As the Fellowship Sorcerers clash with rebellious dragons bent on catastrophic annihilation, those faithful to the True Sect raise armies to extinguish the clans and fight a last, bloody conquest of the free wilds. All while the Prime Matriarch courts reckless power to seize charge of Mankind’s destiny.
As contention threatens to snap the final restraint of old Charter Law, bitter strife and vicious ambition threaten to revoke humanity’s right to inhabit the world. The only hope of survival for all lies in the recovery of the Paravians, those who last called Athera home before Mankind.
The true hearts of heroes will be challenged in the savage fires of conflict; Elaira and Daliana’s steadfast loyalties must rise against the odds or fall as Lysaer’s reckoning collides with the Mistwraith’s secretive machinations. But not before Elder Powers arise to claim their debt for a grievance spanning millennia . . .
In the final battle of Light against Shadow, warring factions prepare to meet the bare fist of Arithon’s fury, sparked by the execution of the innocent murdered by divine decree.
As the Fellowship Sorcerers clash with rebellious dragons bent on catastrophic annihilation, those faithful to the True Sect raise armies to extinguish the clans and fight a last, bloody conquest of the free wilds. All while the Prime Matriarch courts reckless power to seize charge of Mankind’s destiny.
As contention threatens to snap the final restraint of old Charter Law, bitter strife and vicious ambition threaten to revoke humanity’s right to inhabit the world. The only hope of survival for all lies in the recovery of the Paravians, those who last called Athera home before Mankind.
The true hearts of heroes will be challenged in the savage fires of conflict; Elaira and Daliana’s steadfast loyalties must rise against the odds or fall as Lysaer’s reckoning collides with the Mistwraith’s secretive machinations. But not before Elder Powers arise to claim their debt for a grievance spanning millennia . . .
852 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2024
74 people are currently reading
677 people want to read
About the author
Janny Wurts
106 books1,964 followersJanny Wurts is the author of War of Light and Shadow series, and To Ride Hell's Chasm. Her eighteen published titles include a trilogy in audio, a short story collection, as well as the internationally best selling Empire trilogy, co authored with Raymond E. Feist, with works translated into fifteen languages worldwide. Her latest title in the Wars of Light and Shadow series, Destiny's Conflict, culminates more than thirty years of carefully evolved ideas. The cover images on the books, both in the US and abroad, are her own paintings, depicting her vision of characters and setting.
Through her combined talents as a writer/illustrator, Janny has immersed herself in a lifelong ambition: to create a seamless interface between words and pictures that will lead reader and viewer into the imagination. Her lavish use of language invites the mind into a crafted realm of experience, with characters and events woven into a complex tapestry, and drawn with an intensity to inspire active fuel for thought. Her research includes a range of direct experience, lending her fantasy a gritty realism, and her scenes involving magic crafted with intricate continuity. A self-taught painter, she draws directly from the imagination, creating scenes in a representational style that blurs the edges between dream and reality. She makes few preliminary sketches, but envisions her characters and the scenes that contain them, then executes the final directly from the initial pencil drawing.
The seed idea for the Wars of Light and Shadow series occurred, when, in the course of researching tactic and weapons, she viewed a documentary film on the Battle of Culloden Moor. This was the first time she had encountered that historical context of that brutal event, with the embroidery of romance stripped from it. The experience gave rise to an awakening, which became anger, that so often, our education, literature and entertainment slant history in a manner that equates winners and losers with moral right and wrong, and the prevalent attitude, that killing wars can be seen as justifiable solutions when only one side of the picture is presented.
Her series takes the stance that there are two sides to every question, and follows two characters who are half brothers. One a bard trained as a master of magecraft, and the other a born ruler with a charismatic passion for justice, have become cursed to lifelong enmity. As one sibling raises a devoted mass following, the other tries desperately to stave off defeat through solitary discipline and cleverness. The conflict sweeps across an imaginary world, dividing land and people through an intricate play of politics and the inborn prejudices of polarized factions already set at odds. Readers are led on a journey that embraces both viewpoints. The story explores the ironies of morality which often confound our own human condition - that what appears right and just, by one side, becomes reprehensible when seen from the opposite angle. What is apparently good for the many, too often causes devastating suffering to the nonconformist minority. Through the interactions between the characters themselves, the reader is left to their own discretion to interpret the moral impact of events.
Says Janny of her work, "I chose to frame this story against a backdrop of fantasy because I could handle even the most sensitive issues with the gloves off - explore the myriad angles of our troubled times with the least risk of offending anyone's personal sensibilities. The result, I can hope, is an expanding journey of the spirit that explores the grand depths, and rises to the challenge of mapping the ethereal potential of an evolving planetary consciousness... explore free thought and compassionate understanding."
Beyond writing, Janny's award winning paintings have been showcased in exhibitions of imaginative artwork, among them a commemorative exhibition for NASA's 25th Anniversary; the Art of the Cosmos at Hayden Planet
Through her combined talents as a writer/illustrator, Janny has immersed herself in a lifelong ambition: to create a seamless interface between words and pictures that will lead reader and viewer into the imagination. Her lavish use of language invites the mind into a crafted realm of experience, with characters and events woven into a complex tapestry, and drawn with an intensity to inspire active fuel for thought. Her research includes a range of direct experience, lending her fantasy a gritty realism, and her scenes involving magic crafted with intricate continuity. A self-taught painter, she draws directly from the imagination, creating scenes in a representational style that blurs the edges between dream and reality. She makes few preliminary sketches, but envisions her characters and the scenes that contain them, then executes the final directly from the initial pencil drawing.
The seed idea for the Wars of Light and Shadow series occurred, when, in the course of researching tactic and weapons, she viewed a documentary film on the Battle of Culloden Moor. This was the first time she had encountered that historical context of that brutal event, with the embroidery of romance stripped from it. The experience gave rise to an awakening, which became anger, that so often, our education, literature and entertainment slant history in a manner that equates winners and losers with moral right and wrong, and the prevalent attitude, that killing wars can be seen as justifiable solutions when only one side of the picture is presented.
Her series takes the stance that there are two sides to every question, and follows two characters who are half brothers. One a bard trained as a master of magecraft, and the other a born ruler with a charismatic passion for justice, have become cursed to lifelong enmity. As one sibling raises a devoted mass following, the other tries desperately to stave off defeat through solitary discipline and cleverness. The conflict sweeps across an imaginary world, dividing land and people through an intricate play of politics and the inborn prejudices of polarized factions already set at odds. Readers are led on a journey that embraces both viewpoints. The story explores the ironies of morality which often confound our own human condition - that what appears right and just, by one side, becomes reprehensible when seen from the opposite angle. What is apparently good for the many, too often causes devastating suffering to the nonconformist minority. Through the interactions between the characters themselves, the reader is left to their own discretion to interpret the moral impact of events.
Says Janny of her work, "I chose to frame this story against a backdrop of fantasy because I could handle even the most sensitive issues with the gloves off - explore the myriad angles of our troubled times with the least risk of offending anyone's personal sensibilities. The result, I can hope, is an expanding journey of the spirit that explores the grand depths, and rises to the challenge of mapping the ethereal potential of an evolving planetary consciousness... explore free thought and compassionate understanding."
Beyond writing, Janny's award winning paintings have been showcased in exhibitions of imaginative artwork, among them a commemorative exhibition for NASA's 25th Anniversary; the Art of the Cosmos at Hayden Planet
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February 8, 2024
At long last we have arrived at the finale for The Wars of Light and Shadow series by Janny Wurts. A series thirty years in the making since book one The Curse of The Mistwraith was first published in 1993 and according to Janny, fifty years since the idea first came to her brilliant mind. Through my friendship with Janny and relentless support for this series in the blogging sphere, I was gracious enough to be put on Janny’s beta team to read this epic conclusion. The time has finally come for me to talk about it as Song of The Mysteries will be released in May 2024. When this is all said and done The Wars of Light and Shadow will stand as a pillar of the fantasy genre for years to come. This will be a spoiler free review but I will be touching on events from the previous books in the series.
Broken and shattered from the barbaric execution of an innocent child under Arithon’s protection by the True Sect, he recovers in the confines of Althain Tower under the watchful eyes of the Fellowship. Now whole once again with the return of Ciladis The Lost, the seven will have to disperse and tackle the growing threat looming beyond the borders of The North Gate. Elaira sits by the Prince of Shadows bedside knowing the sacrifice he has made for better part of two hundred and fifty years to keep her safe from the prying glare of the Koriani now under the rule of a new Prime. History from the past has been discovered and Lirenda has her eye set on the one person who has caused her so much pain and suffering.
The True Sect marches on the clans and the free wilds under the disguise of religion cleansing but what was once a beacon of hope has turned into corruption and rage. Lysaer sits with his servant Dace (Daliana in disguise thanks to Davian’s spell) imprisoned by the True Sect with no hope or way to know how to change the tides of fate. The only hope rests in the Paravians returning to the land of Athera before it is too late. Meanwhile the Elder powers of the Biedar have a trump card to play in story ahead and it will send shockwaves to all.
I realize that I’m being vague with these plot points but there is no other way for me to talk about this concluding volume without going into spoilers and I do not wish to ruin anything for readers. Janny’s writing absolutely shines here as it did with all her books in this series but even more so due to several different plot threads converging in a way I did not see coming and long time fans will love every second of it.
One thing special about Songs is the breakneck speed Janny goes into the story from the first page. Normally with Janny’s books and especially in this series she will ease you in slowly and meticulously before the pace picks up, but not here. After the first chapter we are racing in a nonstop plot similar to how Janny wrote Traitors Knot and she will not let you up for air for one second. Each chapter will end with a bang leading up to the ultimate final chapters. I will say this now, Song of The Mysteries is Janny’s best written book to date. It has the painful and emotional moments of Perils Gate with the epic scope and battles of Stormed Fortress all wrapped up in one. This is a triumph not only for Janny but fantasy lovers all over the world.
The Wars of Light and Shadow series will forever stand as my favorite Epic fantasy series of all time and this finale volume is the final nail in the coffin for me. From beginning to end the amount of emotional gut punches, foreshadowing, themes of free will, war, love, power, and so much more will always stay with me until my last breath. Thank you Janny for delivering us your Magnum Opus in a time when we all need it.
Cheers!
P.S: It is confirmed that Curse of The Mistwraith is getting an audiobook out in April 2024. There is no guarantee that the rest of the series will be released on audio as it will depend on the preorders so get purchases in now!
Broken and shattered from the barbaric execution of an innocent child under Arithon’s protection by the True Sect, he recovers in the confines of Althain Tower under the watchful eyes of the Fellowship. Now whole once again with the return of Ciladis The Lost, the seven will have to disperse and tackle the growing threat looming beyond the borders of The North Gate. Elaira sits by the Prince of Shadows bedside knowing the sacrifice he has made for better part of two hundred and fifty years to keep her safe from the prying glare of the Koriani now under the rule of a new Prime. History from the past has been discovered and Lirenda has her eye set on the one person who has caused her so much pain and suffering.
The True Sect marches on the clans and the free wilds under the disguise of religion cleansing but what was once a beacon of hope has turned into corruption and rage. Lysaer sits with his servant Dace (Daliana in disguise thanks to Davian’s spell) imprisoned by the True Sect with no hope or way to know how to change the tides of fate. The only hope rests in the Paravians returning to the land of Athera before it is too late. Meanwhile the Elder powers of the Biedar have a trump card to play in story ahead and it will send shockwaves to all.
I realize that I’m being vague with these plot points but there is no other way for me to talk about this concluding volume without going into spoilers and I do not wish to ruin anything for readers. Janny’s writing absolutely shines here as it did with all her books in this series but even more so due to several different plot threads converging in a way I did not see coming and long time fans will love every second of it.
One thing special about Songs is the breakneck speed Janny goes into the story from the first page. Normally with Janny’s books and especially in this series she will ease you in slowly and meticulously before the pace picks up, but not here. After the first chapter we are racing in a nonstop plot similar to how Janny wrote Traitors Knot and she will not let you up for air for one second. Each chapter will end with a bang leading up to the ultimate final chapters. I will say this now, Song of The Mysteries is Janny’s best written book to date. It has the painful and emotional moments of Perils Gate with the epic scope and battles of Stormed Fortress all wrapped up in one. This is a triumph not only for Janny but fantasy lovers all over the world.
The Wars of Light and Shadow series will forever stand as my favorite Epic fantasy series of all time and this finale volume is the final nail in the coffin for me. From beginning to end the amount of emotional gut punches, foreshadowing, themes of free will, war, love, power, and so much more will always stay with me until my last breath. Thank you Janny for delivering us your Magnum Opus in a time when we all need it.
Cheers!
P.S: It is confirmed that Curse of The Mistwraith is getting an audiobook out in April 2024. There is no guarantee that the rest of the series will be released on audio as it will depend on the preorders so get purchases in now!
May 28, 2025
ELEVEN BOOKS AND FREEEEE!
If you want a character arc as frustrating and emotional and traumatic as Fitz from the Realm of the Elderings, a world order reminiscent of The Wheel of Time, revelations and stage setting found in The Stormlight Archive, and finally prose and imagery uniquely beautiful and musical to Janny Wurts - you might enjoy this series.
A 50-year work.
Full series review:
Overall, book one was my favourite which is not what you want to hear after reading eleven books and each book ranges between 550-1000 pages.
I cannot deny Janny knows how to write, but I felt this series gets bogged down by repetition. It is an epic fantasy that is truly a character study with the magic hidden behind it.
I rated two books four stars, two books two stars, and the rest three stars.
Would I recommend it?
I would say personally no, even though this pains me as there were some five star moments.
P.s. the glossary is MAMMOTH.
“The delusion I clung to is broken, that any spirit alive holds the power to save another from jeopardy. We spin our own webs. Each of us must win free of entanglement. No one’s crutch, no matter how earnestly meant, saves anyone from himself. For you, pride must fall before you plumb the flaws that undermine your true strength. Humility founds the honest appeal for anyone’s loving support.”
Book 11 review:
This finale brings everything together, yet I wish it had been condensed into the last two books.
Basically, the last few books and this one hinges on Arithon’s scathing rebuttal.
Arithon aims a strategic attack on the Fellowship’s integrity, threatening what they value the most as crude leverage - his own life being the best weapon in his possession.
“Demolishing a frocked batch of dullard priests wasn’t the murderous fun topping my list.”
Spine bristled, Dakar dug in his heels. “Well, whatever scapegrace collision you’re planning, you won’t hunt alone!”
Dakar became my favourite character. The drunken prophet?! I know.
Elaira let me down as she just became the soulmate rather than continue her strength and independence of the first two arcs.
I think so much could have been done with Lysaer and I was disappointed that he was left to languish. Every single book was the same for him - riled up by the Desh-theire curse to wage war and having to nurse wounds and defeat at Arithon’s clever hands by the end.
Arithon… you excite and frustrate me. He is definitely a Fitz type of character and elicited the same reactions from me. His habit of breaking things being an infamous specialty.
“Doesn’t he just jab his verbal stings under the most vulnerable patch of chafed skin! Makes you forget, doesn’t he? That, sure’s frost, we’ve both seen him grunt, squatting bare-arsed in the broom to drop steaming shite same as everyone else.”
I liked the exploration of wars and massacres cloaked under the sham of false faith, but wished there was further exploration of this (especially by Lysaer).
This is a mixed three stars and I wonder how much my frustration getting through some prior books affected my enjoyment of this final one.🌟
Apparently, if you reread this series it is incredible, but there is no way I’m going through that.
P.s. can fantasy authors please pick names that don’t look the same? Khadrien and Kadarion I’m looking at you.
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If you want a character arc as frustrating and emotional and traumatic as Fitz from the Realm of the Elderings, a world order reminiscent of The Wheel of Time, revelations and stage setting found in The Stormlight Archive, and finally prose and imagery uniquely beautiful and musical to Janny Wurts - you might enjoy this series.
A 50-year work.
Full series review:
Overall, book one was my favourite which is not what you want to hear after reading eleven books and each book ranges between 550-1000 pages.
I cannot deny Janny knows how to write, but I felt this series gets bogged down by repetition. It is an epic fantasy that is truly a character study with the magic hidden behind it.
I rated two books four stars, two books two stars, and the rest three stars.
Would I recommend it?
I would say personally no, even though this pains me as there were some five star moments.
P.s. the glossary is MAMMOTH.
“The delusion I clung to is broken, that any spirit alive holds the power to save another from jeopardy. We spin our own webs. Each of us must win free of entanglement. No one’s crutch, no matter how earnestly meant, saves anyone from himself. For you, pride must fall before you plumb the flaws that undermine your true strength. Humility founds the honest appeal for anyone’s loving support.”
Book 11 review:
This finale brings everything together, yet I wish it had been condensed into the last two books.
Basically, the last few books and this one hinges on Arithon’s scathing rebuttal.
Arithon aims a strategic attack on the Fellowship’s integrity, threatening what they value the most as crude leverage - his own life being the best weapon in his possession.
“Demolishing a frocked batch of dullard priests wasn’t the murderous fun topping my list.”
Spine bristled, Dakar dug in his heels. “Well, whatever scapegrace collision you’re planning, you won’t hunt alone!”
Dakar became my favourite character. The drunken prophet?! I know.
Elaira let me down as she just became the soulmate rather than continue her strength and independence of the first two arcs.
I think so much could have been done with Lysaer and I was disappointed that he was left to languish. Every single book was the same for him - riled up by the Desh-theire curse to wage war and having to nurse wounds and defeat at Arithon’s clever hands by the end.
Arithon… you excite and frustrate me. He is definitely a Fitz type of character and elicited the same reactions from me. His habit of breaking things being an infamous specialty.
“Doesn’t he just jab his verbal stings under the most vulnerable patch of chafed skin! Makes you forget, doesn’t he? That, sure’s frost, we’ve both seen him grunt, squatting bare-arsed in the broom to drop steaming shite same as everyone else.”
I liked the exploration of wars and massacres cloaked under the sham of false faith, but wished there was further exploration of this (especially by Lysaer).
This is a mixed three stars and I wonder how much my frustration getting through some prior books affected my enjoyment of this final one.🌟
Apparently, if you reread this series it is incredible, but there is no way I’m going through that.
P.s. can fantasy authors please pick names that don’t look the same? Khadrien and Kadarion I’m looking at you.
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April 2, 2024
[There are no explicit plot spoilers, although I describe aspects of character development and the flow of the book in broad generalities.]
”...this is the ending I wanted, even if I didn't know how it would all turn out. Finally having the conclusion in front of me and finding NOTHING to be disappointed in is a very emotional and amazing feeling.”
I sent this message to Janny Wurts on December 30, 2021 as a lucky beta reader of the manuscript. For two years, I had devoured chapters as they were drafted, capturing my immediate feelings so the author could judge how the book might be received by future readers. I'm not shy about sharing criticisms when I review a book, but I always strive to surface other strengths when certain aspects don't quite satisfy me. I offer this backstory for transparency and emphasis because, unconditionally, Song of the Mysteries works for me on every level.
It works as a tightly-focused Story Arc V packed into a single, explosive volume. It works as the local conclusion to the Story Arc IV timeline, weaving the vast, abstract planetary perspective back together with the intimate, introspective character moments I loved in Story Arc II and III. Most importantly, it works as a culmination and callback to the entire 11-book series, resolving and reshaping everything that I've fervently read and reread over the past 30 years.
After feeling giddy and awestruck by the final chapters, I stepped away for almost a year as a palate cleanse. I then did a fresh reread of the entire series concluding with the final published version of Song of the Mysteries. I went at a stately tempo, savoring the unique style and musical language in the way the author intended (something I struggled to do in my first frantic readthrough when I wanted to know what happened next!)
With all 11 volumes fresh in mind, I'm pleased to report that Song of the Mysteries still sticks the landing across every measure. This book should categorically silence the naysayers who suggested that the author might have been milking the length of the series or making things up on the fly.
The Wars of Light and Shadow series is a massive geoglyph, painstakingly shaped by hand across miles and years. We may not have had the authorial bird's-eye view to see what it would become, but this final volume perfectly completes the image and vindicates the author's efforts.
The plot continues to move in unpredictable directions while painting new layers onto events from earlier books (especially Curse of the Mistwraith and Fugitive Prince). This volume isn't just about tying up loose ends though – it raises new moral conundrums and contextualizes current events in the weighty Paravian lore of the First and Second Ages. Any one of these historical asides is intriguing enough to be the germ for another novella in this universe, like The Gallant.
Be ready to take time off work for your first readthrough because good stopping points are rare (Chapter XIV is a decent saddle ridge to catch your breath before tackling the summit). The pacing forgoes any sort of slow burn and rarely lets up in intensity, with climactic events happening in almost every chapter. Every time I thought the book's language had reached a plateau in its ability to convey the tension, danger, and beauty of different scenes, the next chapter would prove to be even stronger. The tired joke about volume controls that go to 11 doesn't quite apply here because Song of the Mysteries starts at 11 and peaks around 16.
More than plot, pace, or prose, the character development is what I appreciate most about this volume. The characters I met as a teenager have matured through the lens of my own adulthood, and they all reap their earned conclusions – some tragic, some triumphant, and often a mix of both. Most rewarding for me was Tarens, the loyal crofter whose involvement in the plot didn't satisfy me when I first read Initiate's Trial in 2011. His development here completely dispels my indifference and he has become one of my favourite characters in the series.
Song of the Mysteries is the ending that the series deserves. It should simultaneously satisfy long-time fans while elevating the now-complete series to "classic" status for future readers to discover and appreciate. This series is absolutely worth trying if you're a patient fan of rewarding, intricate complexity, and it's a must-finish if you've paused temporarily somewhere in the middle.
Song of the Mysteries will be released in May 2024 – the audiobook and e-book editions will be available on May 23, with the hardcover edition following on May 28. (For anyone who has not yet started the series, an audiobook edition of Volume I: Curse of the Mistwraith is finally set to release on April 25).
”...this is the ending I wanted, even if I didn't know how it would all turn out. Finally having the conclusion in front of me and finding NOTHING to be disappointed in is a very emotional and amazing feeling.”
I sent this message to Janny Wurts on December 30, 2021 as a lucky beta reader of the manuscript. For two years, I had devoured chapters as they were drafted, capturing my immediate feelings so the author could judge how the book might be received by future readers. I'm not shy about sharing criticisms when I review a book, but I always strive to surface other strengths when certain aspects don't quite satisfy me. I offer this backstory for transparency and emphasis because, unconditionally, Song of the Mysteries works for me on every level.
It works as a tightly-focused Story Arc V packed into a single, explosive volume. It works as the local conclusion to the Story Arc IV timeline, weaving the vast, abstract planetary perspective back together with the intimate, introspective character moments I loved in Story Arc II and III. Most importantly, it works as a culmination and callback to the entire 11-book series, resolving and reshaping everything that I've fervently read and reread over the past 30 years.
After feeling giddy and awestruck by the final chapters, I stepped away for almost a year as a palate cleanse. I then did a fresh reread of the entire series concluding with the final published version of Song of the Mysteries. I went at a stately tempo, savoring the unique style and musical language in the way the author intended (something I struggled to do in my first frantic readthrough when I wanted to know what happened next!)
With all 11 volumes fresh in mind, I'm pleased to report that Song of the Mysteries still sticks the landing across every measure. This book should categorically silence the naysayers who suggested that the author might have been milking the length of the series or making things up on the fly.
The Wars of Light and Shadow series is a massive geoglyph, painstakingly shaped by hand across miles and years. We may not have had the authorial bird's-eye view to see what it would become, but this final volume perfectly completes the image and vindicates the author's efforts.
The plot continues to move in unpredictable directions while painting new layers onto events from earlier books (especially Curse of the Mistwraith and Fugitive Prince). This volume isn't just about tying up loose ends though – it raises new moral conundrums and contextualizes current events in the weighty Paravian lore of the First and Second Ages. Any one of these historical asides is intriguing enough to be the germ for another novella in this universe, like The Gallant.
Be ready to take time off work for your first readthrough because good stopping points are rare (Chapter XIV is a decent saddle ridge to catch your breath before tackling the summit). The pacing forgoes any sort of slow burn and rarely lets up in intensity, with climactic events happening in almost every chapter. Every time I thought the book's language had reached a plateau in its ability to convey the tension, danger, and beauty of different scenes, the next chapter would prove to be even stronger. The tired joke about volume controls that go to 11 doesn't quite apply here because Song of the Mysteries starts at 11 and peaks around 16.
More than plot, pace, or prose, the character development is what I appreciate most about this volume. The characters I met as a teenager have matured through the lens of my own adulthood, and they all reap their earned conclusions – some tragic, some triumphant, and often a mix of both. Most rewarding for me was Tarens, the loyal crofter whose involvement in the plot didn't satisfy me when I first read Initiate's Trial in 2011. His development here completely dispels my indifference and he has become one of my favourite characters in the series.
Song of the Mysteries is the ending that the series deserves. It should simultaneously satisfy long-time fans while elevating the now-complete series to "classic" status for future readers to discover and appreciate. This series is absolutely worth trying if you're a patient fan of rewarding, intricate complexity, and it's a must-finish if you've paused temporarily somewhere in the middle.
Song of the Mysteries will be released in May 2024 – the audiobook and e-book editions will be available on May 23, with the hardcover edition following on May 28. (For anyone who has not yet started the series, an audiobook edition of Volume I: Curse of the Mistwraith is finally set to release on April 25).
May 26, 2024
I have been an ardent fan of this series ever since I first picked up Curse of the Mistwraith in 1999, and let me say, NO OTHER series, with the possible exception of Malazan Book of the Fallen, manages to retain the consistent quality and integrity of story that Janny has demonstrated with The Wars of Light and Shadow in this explosive finale.
Plot threads hooked in since BOOK 1 come to fruition here, some the reader never saw coming. This series will let you make assumptions and then shred them to bits when the greater perspective is revealed. I have nothing but the highest praise for this epic undertaking. Janny is one of the handful of authors I credit with helping to mature my own writing style simply through exposure to her craft, and if I can execute the end of my own epic project with a tenth of the deft grace Janny has here I will be well satisfied.
Tired of fantasy series that will never be finished, or that drag on endlessly while the author milks a dead cash cow? Do you want moral complexity and deep philosophy wrapped in a shiny bow of quantum magic and beautiful prose? Don't wait, pick up this series TODAY and thank me later. It's worth the ride.
Plot threads hooked in since BOOK 1 come to fruition here, some the reader never saw coming. This series will let you make assumptions and then shred them to bits when the greater perspective is revealed. I have nothing but the highest praise for this epic undertaking. Janny is one of the handful of authors I credit with helping to mature my own writing style simply through exposure to her craft, and if I can execute the end of my own epic project with a tenth of the deft grace Janny has here I will be well satisfied.
Tired of fantasy series that will never be finished, or that drag on endlessly while the author milks a dead cash cow? Do you want moral complexity and deep philosophy wrapped in a shiny bow of quantum magic and beautiful prose? Don't wait, pick up this series TODAY and thank me later. It's worth the ride.
May 27, 2024
IT IS DONE! I AM FREE!
Oh my god even this last book was repetitive. People who have known Arithon for centuries and on-page learned better in previous books deciding he is an asshole out for no one but himself and dangerous to boot, and being proved wrong to great regret that makes them weep later on? Check. The army of Light marching into Rathain's free wilds to slaughter the clans not once, but TWICE? With crazy slaughter happening at the second one? Even though the Paravians are back? Check. Elaira and Arithon parted with him being a dick and her tearful understanding, possibly forever? Check. The second time he was less of a dick, so there's that. Dakar being a dumbass drunk and fucking up royally, check! 11th verse same as the first, and even the return of the unicorns can't make up for this repetitive, overly elaborate dreck.
But it's done and I know how it ends and no more FOMO for me! Freedom!!!!!!
Oh my god even this last book was repetitive. People who have known Arithon for centuries and on-page learned better in previous books deciding he is an asshole out for no one but himself and dangerous to boot, and being proved wrong to great regret that makes them weep later on? Check. The army of Light marching into Rathain's free wilds to slaughter the clans not once, but TWICE? With crazy slaughter happening at the second one? Even though the Paravians are back? Check. Elaira and Arithon parted with him being a dick and her tearful understanding, possibly forever? Check. The second time he was less of a dick, so there's that. Dakar being a dumbass drunk and fucking up royally, check! 11th verse same as the first, and even the return of the unicorns can't make up for this repetitive, overly elaborate dreck.
But it's done and I know how it ends and no more FOMO for me! Freedom!!!!!!
June 8, 2024
2024 is a year of highly anticipated reads for me, with three authors who have deeply influenced my work putting out new releases: Seth Dickinson with Exordia, Janny Wurts with Song of the Mysteries, and Brandon Sanderson with Wind and Truth.
Exordia blew my mind with its brilliance, because that's just what Seth Dickinson does. But Song of the Mysteries is incomparable. And while I'm sure Wind and Truth is going to be a very satisfying conclusion to the first arc of the Stormlight Archive, I already know nothing else I read this year is going to measure up to what I just read.
The closest comparable reading experience I can think of is Steven Erikson's The Crippled God, the tenth and final instalment of Malazan Book of the Fallen. Or perhaps A Memory of Light, had Robert Jordan himself been able to write the series in its entirety.
I started reading the Wars of Light and Shadow way back when, as a kid, not long after Curse of the Mistwraith was first published.
I don't remember how I found it.
Maybe while playing a text-based MMORPG and encountering another player who had named their character Arithon s'Ilessid. (😂 I KNOW RIGHT? Clearly there was a fan who couldn't pick a favorite.)
Or, more probably, in the same way that I stumbled across many other renowned epic fantasy series—in my library, while I was running through the shelves alphabetically, searching for my next read with only one criterion in mind: the bigger the book, the better. (Because the school holidays were long and boring and I had nothing to do except read and practice piano.)
How do I encapsulate the culmination of a decades-long journey of this ambition and scope in a few pithy words?
If there is a way it can be done, I haven't discovered it. Every time I try, I fall short.
And so, this review is going to be full of superlatives that sound like over-the-top exaggerations. I can't help it. Janny Wurts has been so influential on me and this series has been such a huge part of my life that there's no way for me to approach this objectively, and thus I won't pretend to.
I also won't attempt any sort of synopsis or plot summary. Go and read Blaise's review if you'd like a non-spoilery overview that sets the stage. (Note: it does reference key events from the preceding 10 books.)
What I will do is tell you what this book and this series is and why I love it so.
THE AUTHOR & THE WRITING
Janny Wurts is one of those rare authors who can do it all.
She draws her own maps and paints her own covers, as gorgeous as anything you'll see from Michael Whelan.
She writes characters as solid and real as any you've read from Robin Hobb. Her characters fit archetypes, yes, with their defining strengths also being their defining flaws, but they are more than their archetypes. She creates compelling, multi-dimensional characters who range across the gamut from the lowest dregs of society to the noblest royalty, craven to heroic to tragic to villainous, with varied motivations—justifiable and unjustifiable, comprehensible and incomprehensible—that are frequently in conflict with each other.
She world builds and develops lore with as much intricacy and depth as Tolkien. Her well-foreshadowed plots are as deviously twisty as anything Tamsyn Muir can come up with, and as compulsive as Will Wight's addictive page-turners. She delivers emotionally shattering endings with the same no-holds-barred, brutal inevitability and ruthlessness that characterizes Seth Dickinson's writing. Her stories have an ever-ratcheting tension to the way they build, with jaw-dropping, riveting climaxes as satisfying and momentous as any Sanderlanche. Every instalment delivers a deep and conclusive catharsis that will leave you spent.
And she'll convey all of this through strong, dense, beautifully crafted prose that packs the mother of all gut punches. Her style is vivid and concise; elevated and yet visceral. Some of the best quotes I can't include here, because spoilers galore, but here's one of my favorite evocative lines from early in the book:
Here's another that is emblematic of Wurts's style:
What an image to paint in 17 words.
THE SERIES
This series is everything I love about epic fantasy.
It is heroic and mythic, suffused with grace and awe and wonder and pathos, concerned with extraordinary characters attempting extraordinary deeds with existential, world-ending stakes.
It is also nuanced, complex, multi-layered, and multi-faceted, while being tightly plotted AND character-driven AND thematically rigorous.
This is not the simplistic "Light versus Dark, good vanquishes evil" kind of story that the publisher's marketing would have you believe.
This is a deeply emotional narrative that explores the full range of human experience, and leaves you to linger and languish at the extremities.
This is a story written to stand the test of time.
The Wars of Light and Shadow is what you should see when you look in the dictionary for the definition of ‘epic’.
But lest you think this is a ride of non-stop angst, there's plenty of humor, even though I would never pitch a Janny Wurts book to a reader who's new to her work as a barrel of laughs. There are so many hilarious moments I can't list out here, because spoilers, but here's a sample of the lines that had me giggling to myself:
And here's a line I'll definitely be quoting the next time someone tries to talk over me:
THE BOOK
This is how you end a series.
I love this stunning, perfectly executed conclusion. Every promise is paid, every hope delivered—along with wonders I didn't know to hope for or expect, or that I believed to be beyond hope, but was given anyway, through grace.
I won't say any more than that, because you need to experience this for yourself. But if you want to see me lose my mind in real time, you can check out my Twitter thread with my live reactions during my first read.
Bravissima, Janny Wurts! Thank you for this gift. We are so blessed to have your stories. I will forever shout my love for your work from all the rooftops.
Exordia blew my mind with its brilliance, because that's just what Seth Dickinson does. But Song of the Mysteries is incomparable. And while I'm sure Wind and Truth is going to be a very satisfying conclusion to the first arc of the Stormlight Archive, I already know nothing else I read this year is going to measure up to what I just read.
The closest comparable reading experience I can think of is Steven Erikson's The Crippled God, the tenth and final instalment of Malazan Book of the Fallen. Or perhaps A Memory of Light, had Robert Jordan himself been able to write the series in its entirety.
I started reading the Wars of Light and Shadow way back when, as a kid, not long after Curse of the Mistwraith was first published.
I don't remember how I found it.
Maybe while playing a text-based MMORPG and encountering another player who had named their character Arithon s'Ilessid. (😂 I KNOW RIGHT? Clearly there was a fan who couldn't pick a favorite.)
Or, more probably, in the same way that I stumbled across many other renowned epic fantasy series—in my library, while I was running through the shelves alphabetically, searching for my next read with only one criterion in mind: the bigger the book, the better. (Because the school holidays were long and boring and I had nothing to do except read and practice piano.)
How do I encapsulate the culmination of a decades-long journey of this ambition and scope in a few pithy words?
If there is a way it can be done, I haven't discovered it. Every time I try, I fall short.
And so, this review is going to be full of superlatives that sound like over-the-top exaggerations. I can't help it. Janny Wurts has been so influential on me and this series has been such a huge part of my life that there's no way for me to approach this objectively, and thus I won't pretend to.
I also won't attempt any sort of synopsis or plot summary. Go and read Blaise's review if you'd like a non-spoilery overview that sets the stage. (Note: it does reference key events from the preceding 10 books.)
What I will do is tell you what this book and this series is and why I love it so.
THE AUTHOR & THE WRITING
Janny Wurts is one of those rare authors who can do it all.
She draws her own maps and paints her own covers, as gorgeous as anything you'll see from Michael Whelan.
She writes characters as solid and real as any you've read from Robin Hobb. Her characters fit archetypes, yes, with their defining strengths also being their defining flaws, but they are more than their archetypes. She creates compelling, multi-dimensional characters who range across the gamut from the lowest dregs of society to the noblest royalty, craven to heroic to tragic to villainous, with varied motivations—justifiable and unjustifiable, comprehensible and incomprehensible—that are frequently in conflict with each other.
Hope was a persistent caprice, an insane ferocity that defied the ruled stasis of logic.
She world builds and develops lore with as much intricacy and depth as Tolkien. Her well-foreshadowed plots are as deviously twisty as anything Tamsyn Muir can come up with, and as compulsive as Will Wight's addictive page-turners. She delivers emotionally shattering endings with the same no-holds-barred, brutal inevitability and ruthlessness that characterizes Seth Dickinson's writing. Her stories have an ever-ratcheting tension to the way they build, with jaw-dropping, riveting climaxes as satisfying and momentous as any Sanderlanche. Every instalment delivers a deep and conclusive catharsis that will leave you spent.
And she'll convey all of this through strong, dense, beautifully crafted prose that packs the mother of all gut punches. Her style is vivid and concise; elevated and yet visceral. Some of the best quotes I can't include here, because spoilers galore, but here's one of my favorite evocative lines from early in the book:
Fractured rainbows flared off solid objects, while his perception of sound shimmered into distortion that rang in his ears like brass chimes.
Here's another that is emblematic of Wurts's style:
The sun's glint off the herringbone patterns of flattened stems wore ruffled foam at the high-water mark.
What an image to paint in 17 words.
THE SERIES
This series is everything I love about epic fantasy.
It is heroic and mythic, suffused with grace and awe and wonder and pathos, concerned with extraordinary characters attempting extraordinary deeds with existential, world-ending stakes.
It is also nuanced, complex, multi-layered, and multi-faceted, while being tightly plotted AND character-driven AND thematically rigorous.
“Love does not breathe or survive without risk. Freedom's nature is wild, else it withers, extinguished. Your prince cannot be smothered in shielded protection. He must grapple his doom without interference. Triumph or tragedy, no safe-guard exists. Only the bitter wisdom of courage, brandished like a torch in the night.”
This is not the simplistic "Light versus Dark, good vanquishes evil" kind of story that the publisher's marketing would have you believe.
“Success demands what the heart knows already. You must stay the hard course. Perception confirms the forked path of your dread. No second alternative exists to be found. Act with the needful courage to break things, and forge your fate without surety. Or else abandon the effort untried.”
This is a deeply emotional narrative that explores the full range of human experience, and leaves you to linger and languish at the extremities.
‘Give me torture and loss, give me death, before I become the instrument that seals your utter destruction.’
This is a story written to stand the test of time.
Not all men rose to the calling of fate. Some threads snapped under load. If one flawed vessel failed in the flesh, must the whole cloth tear asunder? Did the stumble to ruin destroy the future for all generations?
The Wars of Light and Shadow is what you should see when you look in the dictionary for the definition of ‘epic’.
But lest you think this is a ride of non-stop angst, there's plenty of humor, even though I would never pitch a Janny Wurts book to a reader who's new to her work as a barrel of laughs. There are so many hilarious moments I can't list out here, because spoilers, but here's a sample of the lines that had me giggling to myself:
“Of the volatile pair, right now I'd suggest [REDACTED] is the more stable spirit.”
Unmoved, Sethvir deferred the bricked impasse by peering into the tea mug cradled in his lap. His jaundiced survey dissected the dregs, as if the kaleidoscope patterns of augury mapped impending destiny in the tepid sediment.
“Demolishing a frocked batch of dullard priests wasn't the murderous fun topping my list.”
Darak side-eyed the offering with offence. “That's a damned talisman wrought for a cat!”
And here's a line I'll definitely be quoting the next time someone tries to talk over me:
Elaira interrupted. “Before you run on, I have a significant line of inquiry.”
THE BOOK
This is how you end a series.
I love this stunning, perfectly executed conclusion. Every promise is paid, every hope delivered—along with wonders I didn't know to hope for or expect, or that I believed to be beyond hope, but was given anyway, through grace.
I won't say any more than that, because you need to experience this for yourself. But if you want to see me lose my mind in real time, you can check out my Twitter thread with my live reactions during my first read.
Bravissima, Janny Wurts! Thank you for this gift. We are so blessed to have your stories. I will forever shout my love for your work from all the rooftops.
June 12, 2024
WOLS was my favorite series for years. I picked up COTM back in 1996ish and read it so often that I replaced the book 3xs because I broke the spine. Unfortunately the series peaked with Fugitive Prince and it's been down hill ever since. I wasn't expecting much from this novel which is great because there wasn't all that much to get excited about. I will admit I went a bit sunk cost fallacy with this- after all if you've already read 10 books you might as well stick around for the 11th one.
Nothing happens for the first 70% of this book. More accurately, nothing happens in the first 70% of this book that hasn't been exhaustively covered in the first 10 books. Get out your WOLS bingo card or make a drinking game to entertain yourself. The Fellowship is useless, the Lirenda is plotting, Arithon is curled up in a corner sucking his thumb, Elaira is busy reassuring him that he is the specialest little man she has ever met. I am a little tipsy from all the shots I've had and it's only 50 pages in. And maybe just maybe if this wasn't the pattern for every single novel in this series I would have the energy to care about any of it.
Around the 70% mark interesting things start to happen. Things I would have been interested in reading. Unfortunately the focus of this novel is Arithons 300 year long mental breakdown so the interesting things get pushed to the side so we can have pages and pages of exposition on how "Arithon is cruel because he's vulnerable." As if that was some kind of excuse for being an insufferable asshole for centuries.
And don't get me wrong, Arithon does suffer horrifically in this series. He is a deeply traumatized person. Under normal circumstances he would be exactly the type of character I latch on to and sympathize with. The problem here is he never learns anything from any of it. The dude is over 300 years old doing the same assholish crap he did in his 20s. He is shitty to his "friends", shitty to other abused characters, and shitty to his love interest. But it all gets handwaved away thanks to his Fellowship sanctioned personality disorder.
All I'm really getting from this book is that if you leave a bunch of STEMbros alone long enough they will reinvent eugenics. Invest in the future make a STEMbro take a humanities class.
At the very least I can put this series to bed. I may reread some of the earlier novels but tbh the back half of this series has kind of soured me on the whole concept.
Nothing happens for the first 70% of this book. More accurately, nothing happens in the first 70% of this book that hasn't been exhaustively covered in the first 10 books. Get out your WOLS bingo card or make a drinking game to entertain yourself. The Fellowship is useless, the Lirenda is plotting, Arithon is curled up in a corner sucking his thumb, Elaira is busy reassuring him that he is the specialest little man she has ever met. I am a little tipsy from all the shots I've had and it's only 50 pages in. And maybe just maybe if this wasn't the pattern for every single novel in this series I would have the energy to care about any of it.
Around the 70% mark interesting things start to happen. Things I would have been interested in reading. Unfortunately the focus of this novel is Arithons 300 year long mental breakdown so the interesting things get pushed to the side so we can have pages and pages of exposition on how "Arithon is cruel because he's vulnerable." As if that was some kind of excuse for being an insufferable asshole for centuries.
And don't get me wrong, Arithon does suffer horrifically in this series. He is a deeply traumatized person. Under normal circumstances he would be exactly the type of character I latch on to and sympathize with. The problem here is he never learns anything from any of it. The dude is over 300 years old doing the same assholish crap he did in his 20s. He is shitty to his "friends", shitty to other abused characters, and shitty to his love interest. But it all gets handwaved away thanks to his Fellowship sanctioned personality disorder.
All I'm really getting from this book is that if you leave a bunch of STEMbros alone long enough they will reinvent eugenics. Invest in the future make a STEMbro take a humanities class.
At the very least I can put this series to bed. I may reread some of the earlier novels but tbh the back half of this series has kind of soured me on the whole concept.
June 4, 2024
Very boring, nothing happen, too many useless descriptions, without them this book would be 400 pages.
I hate Taren is a useless character! Arithon is an asshole.
This series ended with "Stormed fortress“ after that Janny had nothing more to say.
Non sta succedendo niente, una noia mortale!
Odio Taren, è un personaggio inutile! Arithon è diventato uno stronzo!
Questa serie è finita con "Stormed fortress", dopo quel libro Janny non ha più saputo cosa scrivere.
I hate Taren is a useless character! Arithon is an asshole.
This series ended with "Stormed fortress“ after that Janny had nothing more to say.
Non sta succedendo niente, una noia mortale!
Odio Taren, è un personaggio inutile! Arithon è diventato uno stronzo!
Questa serie è finita con "Stormed fortress", dopo quel libro Janny non ha più saputo cosa scrivere.
June 11, 2024
I accidentally deleted my review.
I don't remember the specifics of what I wrote. I'll try to summarize what I recall.
I'm happy I finished the story. I started reading it 30+ years ago. It's finally done. Somewhere around the 6th book the series lots it's sense of direction and it became very repetitive.
I don't like the book. I haven't liked the series since arc 4 started.
I have huge issues with pace, plot, prose, and perspective.
The book was twice as long as it needed to be. Most of the story was superfluous and boring. Much of the main character's actions didn't go anywhere. Until they did. The events of the book seem so disconnected form each other that the 'payoff' at the end seemed overdue, unearned, & disconnected from all that went before.
The prose is not my cup of tea. It is so jagged and klunky that it kept taking me out of the story. I shouldn't have to read a sentence multiple times to understand what a character is trying to say. I know lots of people love the prose.. but I constantly felt like I was being bashed in the head with a thesaurus.
The perspective. Not once in the book do we see inside the ehad of the main character. Everything we learn about Arithon comes from the exposition from other characters. Even after the climax of the book, we barely get a sense of what the character is feeling, thinking, or why they made the choices they did.
I'm happy the story is over. I'm no longer tied to the outcome.
I don't remember the specifics of what I wrote. I'll try to summarize what I recall.
I'm happy I finished the story. I started reading it 30+ years ago. It's finally done. Somewhere around the 6th book the series lots it's sense of direction and it became very repetitive.
I don't like the book. I haven't liked the series since arc 4 started.
I have huge issues with pace, plot, prose, and perspective.
The book was twice as long as it needed to be. Most of the story was superfluous and boring. Much of the main character's actions didn't go anywhere. Until they did. The events of the book seem so disconnected form each other that the 'payoff' at the end seemed overdue, unearned, & disconnected from all that went before.
The prose is not my cup of tea. It is so jagged and klunky that it kept taking me out of the story. I shouldn't have to read a sentence multiple times to understand what a character is trying to say. I know lots of people love the prose.. but I constantly felt like I was being bashed in the head with a thesaurus.
The perspective. Not once in the book do we see inside the ehad of the main character. Everything we learn about Arithon comes from the exposition from other characters. Even after the climax of the book, we barely get a sense of what the character is feeling, thinking, or why they made the choices they did.
I'm happy the story is over. I'm no longer tied to the outcome.
June 20, 2024
Janny is a brilliant author and I greatly enjoyed even if I had to work hard to work my way through this culmination of three decades work. While I love and appreciate Janny's use of language that is far from typical, it does beggar credulity to believe that every person in her world would speak with such advanced vocabulary.
It's the final book in the series. It's high fantasy and to little surprise, "they all lived happily ever after," for the most part. Still, Janny definitely puts every character through a wringer in the process and there are some surprising losses along the way.
This series is not for everyone. It absolutely is not a quick read. This story is definitely written for those who want to savor and take their time to appreciate just how brilliant the writing truly is of an exceptionally talented author. Personally this book is clearly a 10 but given the high level of buy in necessary to tackle this series, I view it as an 8 for the general public.
It's the final book in the series. It's high fantasy and to little surprise, "they all lived happily ever after," for the most part. Still, Janny definitely puts every character through a wringer in the process and there are some surprising losses along the way.
This series is not for everyone. It absolutely is not a quick read. This story is definitely written for those who want to savor and take their time to appreciate just how brilliant the writing truly is of an exceptionally talented author. Personally this book is clearly a 10 but given the high level of buy in necessary to tackle this series, I view it as an 8 for the general public.
January 11, 2025
Song of the Mysteries sends the reader on an intriguing and epic journey and is a fantastic read. I am addicted to this authors work.
Jannys’ work invites readers to unravel its intricacies layer by layer. It challenges them to confront the darkness within the narrative, suggesting that those who venture into this world will want to remain amongst the pages. She masterfully weaves together a tapestry of suspenseful storytelling. The narrative unfolds through edge-of-your-seat plots and chilling enigmas that ensnare readers from the very first page.
This story seamlessly blends supernatural and paranormal elements. I am addicted! This series is gripping and exciting. It is a tangled web that leaves you breathless and craving more. It is filled with loss and hope, magic and danger, suspense and tension, humour and action within a world where nothing is what it seems.
Jannys’ work invites readers to unravel its intricacies layer by layer. It challenges them to confront the darkness within the narrative, suggesting that those who venture into this world will want to remain amongst the pages. She masterfully weaves together a tapestry of suspenseful storytelling. The narrative unfolds through edge-of-your-seat plots and chilling enigmas that ensnare readers from the very first page.
This story seamlessly blends supernatural and paranormal elements. I am addicted! This series is gripping and exciting. It is a tangled web that leaves you breathless and craving more. It is filled with loss and hope, magic and danger, suspense and tension, humour and action within a world where nothing is what it seems.
June 9, 2024
This is probably the best WoLaS book. I've had lots of issues with this series and some of them carry over into this final book, but Song of the Mysteries closes this fantasy epic in a satisfying manner much better than I expected.
A lot happens in this book, and it makes me even more frustrated that Arc 4 of this series was so lackluster and repetitive. It feels as though Wurts had this ending planned out, and had to bridge the gap between the end of Arc 3 and Arc 5 with little more than filler.
This is probably the densest WoLaS book as well. I don't think I've ever had to spend so much time re-reading sentences or paragraphs. Wurt's prose has grown ever more obtuse; while this isn't necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that it was a slow read.
I want to review the series as a whole, so be warned: the following review contains spoilers for the entire series, INCLUDING this book, Song of the Mysteries.
The Wars of Light and Shadow is clearly a labor of love from Janny Wurts, and it's also clear that a lot of time and effort went into developing and writing it. WoLaS joins the small number of those Epic Fantasy series that fantasy fans dream of: 10+ book doorstoppers that allow readers to immerse themselves in a world and spend countless hours with characters. Additionally, Wurts does it in what I feel is a very unique way, singlehandedly widening the variety to be found in epic fantasy.
Unfortunately, while I enjoyed this series, I didn't love it; I felt there were lots of missed opportunities and too many repetitive plot structures for me to fully enjoy the series. I think this series is polarizing in general, and some readers will likely turn away early while others will absolutely love it; I fall somewhere in the middle.
First, there's Wurts' prose. This is unlike anything else I've ever read, and for the most part I really love it. The prose fits the setting really well and heightens the sense of atmosphere. The uniqueness alone makes it worth reading. However, there are a few phrases that Wurts uses a lot which begin to stick out. On top of that, character dialogue uses the same archaic, wordy, twisted language, and often this makes dialogue feel awkward and keeps the reader a step removed from connecting with these characters and their relationships.
Second, the plotting: while general plotting ideas in this series are very serviceable, there is a lot of repetition in this series. Arithon flees from armed forces through the wilderness multiple times. The forces of Light invade the free wilds to commit genocide against the clans multiple times (twice in the last book alone!) and are rebuffed and decimated on most of those attempts, often by the intervention of some form of magical influence. The Koriathain plot to capture Arithon multiple times, and their plots always fail -- except for the one time when it succeeds, which happens between books!? There are many issues with plotting the kept the pacing in the middle books feeling too slow and laborious, but I think my biggest issue with plotting in this series is the time skips that happen. The prologue to this series promises 5 centuries of war, but I think holding to this promise hurts the story, because it could've been told in 5 decades with more efficacy. Not only is there an immediate plot device to set this story up for a 5 century timespan (the Five Centuries Fountain... it's even in the name), the first 8 of these 11 books takes place in something like 50 years. The 200+ year time skip between Arc 3 and Arc 4 serve to catch up on lost time, but they also mean that our entire cast of supporting characters leave the story, and Wurts has to build up entirely new characters to replace the old ones -- and by replace I mean literally, as we are given nearly one-to-one replacements for the strongest supporting characters for both Arithon and Lysaer: Daliana replaces Sulfin Evend and Tarens replaces Jieret (literally). This is in part why I did not like Arc 4. I firmly believe Arc 5 and the conclusion of this series could have occurred only 50 years after Arc 1 with a tighter timeline and would have avoided the weaknesses that jumping around in time so much produced; in this case we could even have a proper story in Arc 4 with some of the character development and plot developments that occur in this book moved forward to give them time to breath and settle.
Thirdly, the characterization: Some of the characters in WoLaS are written really well. I love how the Fellowship is portrayed. Arithon and Elaira are both portrayed well, as they are clearly the characters Wurts wanted to write about from the beginning. Dakar the Mad Prophet is a very fun character and probably my favorite in the series; he definitely sees the most development (although it pauses in Arc 4, just like the rest of the story). These are the characters we spend the most time with, so it's good that they were written well. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the cast is weaker, to various degrees. The Koriathain are a one-note evil force, portrayed as scheming, conniving, but also incompetent witches with no real redeeming factors. I would have loved to get more nuance in this representation. I think the cause they fight for is not entirely evil (more on this later), but they are displayed as the villains that no one takes too seriously for most of the series. The side characters among the clans never really connected for me outside of Jieret, despite spending a lot of time with them. They are all very similar; virtuous, ready to give their lives to defend loved ones and the free wilds, and capable. On the other hand, the side characters among the townborn are almost always unpleasant, rude, and antagonistic, especially when unnamed. I think this was a big mistake, and a lot more nuance should have been used here. Indeed, I would have happily traded some of the repetitive time we spent with the clans for more time spent in the civilized parts of Athera; this might have injected more interesting political drama into the series and shown how Lysaer's leadership brought the not-inherently-evil townsmen to ruin. And that brings me to Lysaer: I think his character was tragically underused. Lysaer's tale is incredibly tragic, and the side of the conflict without the benefits Arithon has at his disposal and intensely flawed under the Mistwraith's directive, I think a lot of the character development he went through in this last book could have started much earlier (perhaps halfway through Arc 3) and made him a much better, more sympathetic character. Arc 4 tried to start this development, but essentially reverted it at the start of this book. This series could easily have better split time between Lysaer and Arithon to heighten stakes and make the series more interesting and varied overall, avoiding some of the repetitious plot elements we received by spending so much time with Arithon.
Fourthly, the world: this was, on the whole, quite good. While I read this on kindle and didn't refer to the map too often, the world felt fleshed out and well described, and the magic system was well connected to it, complex, and unique. My biggest complaint is the way Paravians are handled; having a whole race produce intense, possibly fatal ecstasy in humans in shared presence felt over the top and a little ridiculous to me.
Lastly, the themes. At the core of this story is the conflict between man and nature; it examines and refutes how the technology and progress of man cause exploitation of nature motivated by greed. Arithon and the Fellowship sorcerers and the clans represent peaceful harmony with nature at the cost of humanity's progress, whereas Lysaer, the Koriathain, and the townborn peoples represent man's striving for progress, but also greed and the exploitation of the wilderness. I think this is interesting messaging and a great discussion to be had at a time where our future is somewhat bleak as a species, with global warming rapidly affecting our winters and the amount of undisturbed wilderness quickly shrinking. My issue with this is how one-sided Wurts is in this argument; she is clearly siding against humanity progressing. The Fellowship sorcerers are shown as clearly benevolent, but they are used to completely stifle humanity's progress, and clearly keep humanity in a state of stagnation; not only that, but a state of stagnation where the majority of civilization has very low standards of living. Again, I think there could be a bit more nuance here, maybe even some level of compromise. I don't mind a bias from the author, but it's so oddly one-sided here. Additionally, the idea that the reader should root for the side that enforces rule via royalty and monarchy over democracy and elected rulers is odd to me, especially in a setting where 'free will' is so heavily prioritized. That said, in the setting of fantasy this all worked pretty well, and hearkens back to some of the themes found in Tolkien's writing.
I've complained a lot about some of the choices Wurts made and some of her writing, but I want to stress that it's only because I did enjoy this series, and it hurt me to watch it waste some of the potential it had. I'm very happy that the series ended strong, because it means that the series can be recommended. It's a monumental undertaking, and I'm glad I'm done, but if this series was an ultra marathon, I was able to enjoy running the trails even if at some points my stamina flagged.
A lot happens in this book, and it makes me even more frustrated that Arc 4 of this series was so lackluster and repetitive. It feels as though Wurts had this ending planned out, and had to bridge the gap between the end of Arc 3 and Arc 5 with little more than filler.
This is probably the densest WoLaS book as well. I don't think I've ever had to spend so much time re-reading sentences or paragraphs. Wurt's prose has grown ever more obtuse; while this isn't necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that it was a slow read.
I want to review the series as a whole, so be warned: the following review contains spoilers for the entire series, INCLUDING this book, Song of the Mysteries.
The Wars of Light and Shadow is clearly a labor of love from Janny Wurts, and it's also clear that a lot of time and effort went into developing and writing it. WoLaS joins the small number of those Epic Fantasy series that fantasy fans dream of: 10+ book doorstoppers that allow readers to immerse themselves in a world and spend countless hours with characters. Additionally, Wurts does it in what I feel is a very unique way, singlehandedly widening the variety to be found in epic fantasy.
Unfortunately, while I enjoyed this series, I didn't love it; I felt there were lots of missed opportunities and too many repetitive plot structures for me to fully enjoy the series. I think this series is polarizing in general, and some readers will likely turn away early while others will absolutely love it; I fall somewhere in the middle.
First, there's Wurts' prose. This is unlike anything else I've ever read, and for the most part I really love it. The prose fits the setting really well and heightens the sense of atmosphere. The uniqueness alone makes it worth reading. However, there are a few phrases that Wurts uses a lot which begin to stick out. On top of that, character dialogue uses the same archaic, wordy, twisted language, and often this makes dialogue feel awkward and keeps the reader a step removed from connecting with these characters and their relationships.
Second, the plotting: while general plotting ideas in this series are very serviceable, there is a lot of repetition in this series. Arithon flees from armed forces through the wilderness multiple times. The forces of Light invade the free wilds to commit genocide against the clans multiple times (twice in the last book alone!) and are rebuffed and decimated on most of those attempts, often by the intervention of some form of magical influence. The Koriathain plot to capture Arithon multiple times, and their plots always fail -- except for the one time when it succeeds, which happens between books!? There are many issues with plotting the kept the pacing in the middle books feeling too slow and laborious, but I think my biggest issue with plotting in this series is the time skips that happen. The prologue to this series promises 5 centuries of war, but I think holding to this promise hurts the story, because it could've been told in 5 decades with more efficacy. Not only is there an immediate plot device to set this story up for a 5 century timespan (the Five Centuries Fountain... it's even in the name), the first 8 of these 11 books takes place in something like 50 years. The 200+ year time skip between Arc 3 and Arc 4 serve to catch up on lost time, but they also mean that our entire cast of supporting characters leave the story, and Wurts has to build up entirely new characters to replace the old ones -- and by replace I mean literally, as we are given nearly one-to-one replacements for the strongest supporting characters for both Arithon and Lysaer: Daliana replaces Sulfin Evend and Tarens replaces Jieret (literally). This is in part why I did not like Arc 4. I firmly believe Arc 5 and the conclusion of this series could have occurred only 50 years after Arc 1 with a tighter timeline and would have avoided the weaknesses that jumping around in time so much produced; in this case we could even have a proper story in Arc 4 with some of the character development and plot developments that occur in this book moved forward to give them time to breath and settle.
Thirdly, the characterization: Some of the characters in WoLaS are written really well. I love how the Fellowship is portrayed. Arithon and Elaira are both portrayed well, as they are clearly the characters Wurts wanted to write about from the beginning. Dakar the Mad Prophet is a very fun character and probably my favorite in the series; he definitely sees the most development (although it pauses in Arc 4, just like the rest of the story). These are the characters we spend the most time with, so it's good that they were written well. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the cast is weaker, to various degrees. The Koriathain are a one-note evil force, portrayed as scheming, conniving, but also incompetent witches with no real redeeming factors. I would have loved to get more nuance in this representation. I think the cause they fight for is not entirely evil (more on this later), but they are displayed as the villains that no one takes too seriously for most of the series. The side characters among the clans never really connected for me outside of Jieret, despite spending a lot of time with them. They are all very similar; virtuous, ready to give their lives to defend loved ones and the free wilds, and capable. On the other hand, the side characters among the townborn are almost always unpleasant, rude, and antagonistic, especially when unnamed. I think this was a big mistake, and a lot more nuance should have been used here. Indeed, I would have happily traded some of the repetitive time we spent with the clans for more time spent in the civilized parts of Athera; this might have injected more interesting political drama into the series and shown how Lysaer's leadership brought the not-inherently-evil townsmen to ruin. And that brings me to Lysaer: I think his character was tragically underused. Lysaer's tale is incredibly tragic, and the side of the conflict without the benefits Arithon has at his disposal and intensely flawed under the Mistwraith's directive, I think a lot of the character development he went through in this last book could have started much earlier (perhaps halfway through Arc 3) and made him a much better, more sympathetic character. Arc 4 tried to start this development, but essentially reverted it at the start of this book. This series could easily have better split time between Lysaer and Arithon to heighten stakes and make the series more interesting and varied overall, avoiding some of the repetitious plot elements we received by spending so much time with Arithon.
Fourthly, the world: this was, on the whole, quite good. While I read this on kindle and didn't refer to the map too often, the world felt fleshed out and well described, and the magic system was well connected to it, complex, and unique. My biggest complaint is the way Paravians are handled; having a whole race produce intense, possibly fatal ecstasy in humans in shared presence felt over the top and a little ridiculous to me.
Lastly, the themes. At the core of this story is the conflict between man and nature; it examines and refutes how the technology and progress of man cause exploitation of nature motivated by greed. Arithon and the Fellowship sorcerers and the clans represent peaceful harmony with nature at the cost of humanity's progress, whereas Lysaer, the Koriathain, and the townborn peoples represent man's striving for progress, but also greed and the exploitation of the wilderness. I think this is interesting messaging and a great discussion to be had at a time where our future is somewhat bleak as a species, with global warming rapidly affecting our winters and the amount of undisturbed wilderness quickly shrinking. My issue with this is how one-sided Wurts is in this argument; she is clearly siding against humanity progressing. The Fellowship sorcerers are shown as clearly benevolent, but they are used to completely stifle humanity's progress, and clearly keep humanity in a state of stagnation; not only that, but a state of stagnation where the majority of civilization has very low standards of living. Again, I think there could be a bit more nuance here, maybe even some level of compromise. I don't mind a bias from the author, but it's so oddly one-sided here. Additionally, the idea that the reader should root for the side that enforces rule via royalty and monarchy over democracy and elected rulers is odd to me, especially in a setting where 'free will' is so heavily prioritized. That said, in the setting of fantasy this all worked pretty well, and hearkens back to some of the themes found in Tolkien's writing.
I've complained a lot about some of the choices Wurts made and some of her writing, but I want to stress that it's only because I did enjoy this series, and it hurt me to watch it waste some of the potential it had. I'm very happy that the series ended strong, because it means that the series can be recommended. It's a monumental undertaking, and I'm glad I'm done, but if this series was an ultra marathon, I was able to enjoy running the trails even if at some points my stamina flagged.
May 29, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. A fitting finale to the series and a must read for anyone who has been following this series.
I have been reading this series since I discovered Curse of the Mistwraith in the early 90’s.
I have laughed & cried with my favourite characters and had love-hate relationships with others.
Song of the Mysteries does not disappoint- it is simply fantastic. From the highs to the lows it has been a rollercoaster ride of note.
I have been reading this series since I discovered Curse of the Mistwraith in the early 90’s.
I have laughed & cried with my favourite characters and had love-hate relationships with others.
Song of the Mysteries does not disappoint- it is simply fantastic. From the highs to the lows it has been a rollercoaster ride of note.
June 6, 2024
So glad to have a (mostly) satisfying conclusion to this story. But although Janny Wurts is a truly talented writer and story-teller, this book was about half again as long as it needed to e and many of the characters felt stilted; trapped in patterns of behavior that went beyond character development and deep into rigor mortis, with awkward “a ha!” moments that really weren’t.
I loved this series, I did, but wish more time had been spent on the history of the Seven (for example) and less on what felt like unending repetitive descriptions of character flaws, shock and recognition of said flaws, self-indulgent ‘reckonings’ and descriptions of war-hosts.
But. It’s an ending to a clear work of passion, and at least I don’t feel like it left anything especially unwrapped.
I loved this series, I did, but wish more time had been spent on the history of the Seven (for example) and less on what felt like unending repetitive descriptions of character flaws, shock and recognition of said flaws, self-indulgent ‘reckonings’ and descriptions of war-hosts.
But. It’s an ending to a clear work of passion, and at least I don’t feel like it left anything especially unwrapped.
June 2, 2024
Please note the two-star rating is just so I could say this before I started reading.
I’m so excited to read this book. I remember reading the first couple of books around the time I started college, so very close to the first book’s publication in 1993. Thirtyish years later, the end is here. I’m glad to have been along for the ride. Congratulations to Ms. Wurts.
I never once doubted this series would finish: Ms. Wurts knew her story and world. I’ve tried recommending it to frustrated “Song of Ice and Fire” fans, but it probably isn’t to their taste. I wish Ms. Wurts would get a quarter of the acclaim and popularity that “Ice and Fire” or “The Name of the Wind” have. She wrote eleven books in just over thirty years and—more importantly—she finished the series. Oh well, it’s their loss.
All right. Time to read.
I’m so excited to read this book. I remember reading the first couple of books around the time I started college, so very close to the first book’s publication in 1993. Thirtyish years later, the end is here. I’m glad to have been along for the ride. Congratulations to Ms. Wurts.
I never once doubted this series would finish: Ms. Wurts knew her story and world. I’ve tried recommending it to frustrated “Song of Ice and Fire” fans, but it probably isn’t to their taste. I wish Ms. Wurts would get a quarter of the acclaim and popularity that “Ice and Fire” or “The Name of the Wind” have. She wrote eleven books in just over thirty years and—more importantly—she finished the series. Oh well, it’s their loss.
All right. Time to read.
September 22, 2024
I read the 1-star reviews and nod, sharing some of the same annoyance. What seem minor plotlines, repeating events that have occurred again and again, are drawn out in detail; then plot is advanced in leaps in background without any elaboration as well as without any agency for the protagonists. But the series is interesting and beautiful and left mostly good feelings for me. Wrapping together these huge series is not an easy task and perhaps Wurts had her reasons for elaborating on what she spent most time on.
June 9, 2024
A suitable conclusion to an epic series.
A pleasure to see a series like this come to a finale. If you've liked the earlier books in the series you'll enjoy this one. It picks up all of the earlier threads and brings them a satisfying ending.
Nice to have an author finish what they started....
A pleasure to see a series like this come to a finale. If you've liked the earlier books in the series you'll enjoy this one. It picks up all of the earlier threads and brings them a satisfying ending.
Nice to have an author finish what they started....
July 13, 2024
Too many words
Imperious, circulatory, verbosity stew.
Ironically my review requires 16 more words to be able to post. I don’t see the need.
Imperious, circulatory, verbosity stew.
Ironically my review requires 16 more words to be able to post. I don’t see the need.
July 2, 2024
A wonderful finish to an exhilarating series. Janny pulls all the plot threads woven through this eleven book series together to create a well plotted and satisfying climax. As always the wording is very carefully chosen and you find the assumptions the reader, and the characters, make are overturned as you realise what a prophecy from the first book in the series really, truly, means.
If you want a fantasy series that will challenge you, with moral dilemmas, hidden motives and eloquent prose, this is the series for you. Let each who reads determine the good and the evil for themselves.
If you want a fantasy series that will challenge you, with moral dilemmas, hidden motives and eloquent prose, this is the series for you. Let each who reads determine the good and the evil for themselves.
June 19, 2024
I feel like an era of my life has come to a close. I started this series 12 years ago, and I’ve had the pleasure of following Janny Wurts and the series’ development ever since. Her visions of magic, mastery, and the fight to salvage humanity’s future are a testament to what makes epic fantasy great.
August 21, 2024
This goes to the top of my list of the greatest series ever. Wurts' descriptive powers and imagination are simply breathtaking.
March 28, 2024
**Please note**this review touches on events that occurred in previous books in the series – thus potential SPOILERS for the previous books.**
"Carved stone acquired what seemed the reactive semblance of life. The figures enshrined in the Chamber of Renown bespoke courage that defied indelible loss and despair; the terrible scope of blood sacrifice that preserved the mysteries across the turbulence of three Ages. The towering might of the centaur guardians reared with raised lances against the monstrous scourge of Searduin, and predatory swarms of winged Khadrim. Storied heroes, distanced by legend, depicted the triumph of peace, muscled forearms crossed in salute over the peacock enamel of their blazoned breastplates. Others bound to safe-guard the forests stood foursquare, antlered heads lifted to wind the clarion blast of their dragon-spine horns. The endurance chiselled into stern features mapped the bygone millenia prior to Mankind's inaugural settlement."
It was an enormous privilege to receive an ARC of this astonishing book from the author, not one that I can easily put into words.
To be able to read, prior to actual publication, one of the most anticipated finales ever written in a fantasy series, a book that is five decades in the making, and the last installment in what is an iconic series, by who I hold as one of fantasy's greatest living authors, makes on feel that one is part of the history of the genre, in my very paltry, insignificant way. Yet, the feeling pervades.
It is a feeling I will never forget for the rest of my life, and I am deeply humbled to have experienced it.
In terms of the review itself, I believe all would acknowledge, at this point in the series, of course, everything is a spoiler. And if you are reading this review, you have more than likely read all the previous ten books in the series prior to "Song of the Mysteries".
There will, no doubt, be thousands of far better reviews of this book that come after mine. Doubtless, many of those reviews will touch more upon what takes place in the narrative.
I will say, however, that the characterization, plot, themes, worldbuilding, prose, is that all are, and as they have been throughout the series, masterful.
So, I will write this review more for those who perhaps have not read this series yet, or anything by this author.
Thus, I will do something different in this review. I will be giving you somewhat of a character/name/place list of the main characters (or objects, or words/titles of significance) who - either alive or dead at the time of this book - will still define the stunning outcome of the book. This list will also serve as somewhat of a tribute to the brilliance of these characters, and the fabulous elements of the novel and series, created by this incomparable author.
Additionally, it is my hope that by providing such a list, it will give some small sense the staggering depth, breadth, enormous and fascinating scope of the universe, the immense history and lore that Wurts' has created with her worldbuilding, and entice readers to become lost in it all, just as I, and millions of readers have, and no doubt will be, for many years to come.
This list is taken from the glossary in the rear of the book, and edited and abbreviated somewhat, especially so as not to give away too much of the overall plot.
ALITHIEL - one of the twelve Blades of Isaer, forged by centaur Ffereton s'Darian from a meteorite.
ARITHON - son of Avar, Prince of Rathain, 1504th Teir'sFffalenn after founder of the line, Torbrand in the Third Age Year One. Also Master of Shadow, the Bane of Desh-thiere, and Halliron Masterbard's successor.
ASANDIR - Fellowship Sorcerer. Secondary Name, Kingmaker, since his hand crowned every high king of Men to rule the Age of Mankind (Third Age). Acting field agent for Fellowship affairs across the continent.
ATH CREATOR - prime vibration, force behind all life.
ATHLIEN PARAVIANS - sunchildren, dancers of the crystal flutes. Race of semi-mortals, pixie-like, but possessed of great wisdom/keepers of the grand mystery.
BIEDAR - Tribal people living in Sanpashir, Shand, known as the Keepers of the Prophecy.
CATHDEIN - Paravian name for a high king's first counsellor, charged with oversight and integrity of crowned royalty's fitness to rule; would also stand as regent, or steward, in the absence of the sanctioned sovereign.
CANON LAW - doctrine of the True Sect, faction of the Religion of Light split away from the Alliance at the Great Schism in the Third Age.
DACE MARLEY - in service as a valet to Lysaer s'Ilessid.
DAKAR THE MAD PROPHET - apprentice to Fellowship Sorcerer Asandir, Master Spellbinder and gifted seer.
DALIANA - Asandir's chosen heir to the s'Gannley lineage.
DAVIEN THE BETRAYER - Fellowship Sorcerer responsible for provoking the great uprising in Third Age 5018, which resulted in the fall of the high kings after Desh-thiere's conquest. Exiled, by personal choice.
DESH-THIERE - Mistwraith that invaded Athera from the splinter words through Southgate in Third Age 4993. Imprisoned by Lysaer s'Ilessid's gift of light and Arithon s'Ffalenn's gift of shadow in Third Age 5638, and contained under wards in the shaft of Rockfell Pit.
DRAKE SPAWN - life created, or altered in from, by the dreaming of Dragonkind.
ELAIRA - initiate enchantress of the Koriathain, healer. Arithon's beloved, handfast to Rathain in Third Age 5672.
FELLOWSHIP OF THE SEVEN - Sorcerers bound to Athera by the summoning dream of the Dragon Protectorate anc charged to secure the mysteries that enable Paravian survival. Originators and keepers of the covenant of the compact allowing Mankind's provisional settlement on Athera in Third Age Year One. Their authority backs Charter law, upheld by crown justice and clan oversight of the free wilds.
ILITHARIS PARAVIANS - centaurs, of Athera's three semi-mortal old races; defenders and guardians of earth's mysteries who dwindled after the Mistwraith's conquest, departed the continent to take sanctuary.
KORIATHAIN - female order of enchantresses headed by a Senior Circle, ruled by the absolute will of a Prime Matriarch. Selective talent is acquired from orphaned children, or from daughters dedicated to service by their parents, with ranked initiation and a vow of consent that shackles the spirit to a crystal keyed to the Prime's control.
LATHIEN s'IDIR - clanborn woman from Fallowmere, mother of Siantra s'Idir.
LAW OF MAJOR BALANCE - primary tenet of the Fellowship of Seven: no force of nature shall be applied without conscious free-will consent.
LIRENDA - demoted First Senior Enchantress of the Koriani Order.
LUHAINE - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, discorporate.
LYRANTHE - instrument with fourteen strings, tuned in courses to seven tones: two drone strings' set to octaves, and five melody strings, the lower three course pitched octaves, and the upper two in unison.
LYSAER s'ILESSID - prince of Tysan, 1497th in succession since Halduin found the line in Third Age Year One. Gifted at birth to wield elemental Light, known as the Bane of Desh-thiere and Blessed Prince, self-styled as divine avatar of the Alliance of Light.
MORRIEL - Prime Matriarch of the Koriathain.
MOTHER DARK - tribal name for the all-knowing, all-encompassing stillness of the void that is untapped, virgin power, the latent and limitless state of potential that precedes the imprinted act of creation.
MOLTS - young dragons who have left the nest, immature and sexless until they mate as adults
NAILS - nickname for a True Sect divinder influential with the Light's war hosts.
OZVOWZARKIN - heir apparent to Chaimistarizog, Guardian of the Northgate and keeper of the Treaty Accord between the Dragon Protectorate and wild drakes exiled to the splinter world, Sckaithehn Duin.
PARAVIA - continent originally inhabited by Paravians, and local of the Five Kingdoms.
PARAVIAN - continent and name for three semi-mortal races inhabiting Athera before Mankind. Centaurs, sunchildren and unicorns emboy the world's channel, or direct connection, to Ath Creator.
PRIME MATRIARCH - head of the Order of the Koriathain by ninth-rank initiation.
PROTECTORATE - elder dragons rallied from defeat at close of the First Age to defend Paravian sovereignty from Dragonkind's murderous creation of drake spawn and Methurien, allied with the Paravian Concord to stabilize peace, and arbitrators of the Treaty Accord exiling wild rogues to the splinter worlds of Sckaithen Duin past Northgate. Engendered the Second Dreaming of Corith that bound the Fellowship Sorcerers.
REIYAJ SEERESS - titled seeress sequestered in a tower in Shand, near Ithish, with oracular visions. Born sighted, until practice of her art causes blindness, her tradition stems from the mystical practice of the Biedar tribe in the Sanpashir desert.
RIATHAN PARAVIANS - unicorns, the living bridge whose undilute connection with Ath Creator channels the prime vibration through the horn.
ROCKFELL PEAK - mountain in West Halla, Mehlhalla, holds Rockfell Pit, prison for harmful entities throughout three Ages, and warded containment for the Mistwraith, Desh-thiere
SCKAITHEN DUIN - called Fortress of Dragons, splinter world accessed by the North Worldsend Gae, where dissident dragons against Paravian sovereignty of Athera are in exile under the Dragon Protectorate's Treaty Accord.
SEARDLUIN - drake-spawned predator, first dreamed as slayers to prey upon rival drakes' clutches for territorial enforcement in the Era of Destruction. When ungovernable bloodlust spurred their thirst for etheric death, they turned to rogue slaughter in vicious packs. In the Age of Nightmare, they killed drakes in hibernation, evolving the imperative to cocoon in stone for safety. Hunted to suppression by the Dragon Protectorate, resurgent outbreaks occurred through resonant concordance on Paravia and Mhorovaire, until they were battled to extinction, costing death to High King Kidron First Elrienient in the Second Age 7915.
SESHKROZCHIEL - female dragon once mated to Haspastion.
SETHVIR - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, allotted the earth-link and appointed Warden of Althain in the Third Age 5100, when the last centaur guardian Tehaval withdrew after the Mistwraith's conquest.
SIANTRA S'IDIR - daughter of Laithen s'IDIR.
TARENS - townborn crofter from Kesling. Liegeman to Prince Arithon.
TEIRENDAEILIENT MEREVALIA - High Queen Regent of Paravia, sunchild.
TRAITHE - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, single-handedly closed Southgate to curtail the Mistwraith's invasion in Third Age 4993, at the crippling loss of his greater faculties.
TREATY ACCORD - agreement forged by the Fellowship Sorcerers and the Dragon Protectorate that binds the exile of drakes who refused to honour the Concord granting of sovereignty of Athera to the Paravians. The factions in dissent reside on Sckaithen Duin, the splinter world beyond Northgate, bound under law not to threaten or harm Athera or damage the weal of the mysteries.
TRUE SECT - branch faith of the Religion of Light reformed by the Great Schism, when the Light's divine avatar turned apostate to Canon doctrine in Third AGe 5683.
VERRAIN - Lisianne's beloved, apprenticed to Luhaine to curb Methspawn; achieved Master Spellbinder and charged as Guardian of Mirthlvain by the Ilitharis Paravians after the Mistwraith's conquest.
There can be no doubt, in my estimation, that "Wars of Light and Shadow" is a signal work in the field of epic fantasy fiction. "Songs of the Mysteries" places a blistering capstone on the career of Janny Wurts, cementing the esteemed legacy of this author in a resounding way, with the completion of her Magnum Opus.
This book was earth-rending, dark, tragic, beautiful, uplifting, filled with strife and war, the ever looming threat of apocalypse, reckless, unrestrained ambition and power, fury, revenge, loyalty, scheming, incredible sacrifice and heroism, loss, and in the end, redemption, and triumph, but not without great cost.
When the Song of the Mysteries plays, you will be completely amazed and dazzled, as the elder powers emerge.
As I end this review, I once more make a last comment about Wurts' prose.
I understand that for some, Wurts’ prose may be too much of a good thing. For me, simply put, it is a thing of extreme beauty, a revelation. To say it is evocative is a paltry compliment. Her style of writing is classical, lyrical, poetic at times, stuffed full of detail, description, subtleties. You can read and appreciate the writing for its sheer loveliness, but in truth, you would literally be missing out.
That is because Wurts weaves clues to sub-plots or major plot points, innuendoes, sometimes even double-meanings into her words, that if the reader fails to pay attention – either completely mesmerized by the prose itself, or overwhelmed by the depth and breadth of it – things will be missed, and misunderstood. There is such delight in the way Wurts writes, that I know I will be re-reading all the books contained in "The Wars of Light and Shadow", including "Songs of the Mysteries" many times over the rest of my life, just for the loveliness of the prose alone.
But I will also be re-reading to capture things that I know I neglected to pick up on the first read of the novels in this series – that's the type of books Wurts writes. She is a master at the craft of writing, and I cannot say enough about her abilities in this regard. She will make you work hard to comprehend the full picture, but I feel the payoff is well worth the effort on the part of the reader.
Prose, for me, is the second most critical aspect of writing required for my personal enjoyment, after characters.
Wurts' prose is the best I've read in any fantasy book ever, and has been marvellous gateway for me to revel in reading her novels.
I leave you with one more example of that breathtaking, incomparable prose, here:
"The encampment mustered in the predawn gloom, wakened to voices and the jingle of arms before the watch roster recalled the outlying sentries. Commotion upended routine at the picket lines, neighs from the horses selected for battle shrilling through the seethe of assembly before the advance. Servants scurried through last-minute chores and settled their masters' debts with camp followers, handily ducking demand from the roustabout labourers caught short handed in the bustle of packing."
I make no secret that I believe Janny Wurts is among the greatest fantasy writers of all-time, that she is my favourite author, and that "Wars of Light and Shadow" is my favourite fantasy series of all-time.
So it is not surprising to anyone that after reading the final, ultimate volume of "Wars of Light and Shadow", entitled "Song of the Mysteries", that it now ranks second in my favourite fantasy books ever. Right behind "To Ride Hell's Chasm", also written by Wurts.
"Malazan", "Realm of the Elderlings", "A Song of Ice and Fire", "Wheel of Time", these are just some of the series that many readers will postulate as the "GOAT". There are great, justifiable reasons for that. Each of these series I just mentioned has its definitive merits, and readers love them for those merits.
I would ask that any readers who love any of the series that I've mentioned, if you feel you've read all or most of what are commonly considered on the list of GOAT series, please consider reading "Wars of Light and Shadow". You might just find you will have to rearrange your list.
Congratulations to Janny Wurts on the magnificent feat of "Songs of the Mysteries"!
"Carved stone acquired what seemed the reactive semblance of life. The figures enshrined in the Chamber of Renown bespoke courage that defied indelible loss and despair; the terrible scope of blood sacrifice that preserved the mysteries across the turbulence of three Ages. The towering might of the centaur guardians reared with raised lances against the monstrous scourge of Searduin, and predatory swarms of winged Khadrim. Storied heroes, distanced by legend, depicted the triumph of peace, muscled forearms crossed in salute over the peacock enamel of their blazoned breastplates. Others bound to safe-guard the forests stood foursquare, antlered heads lifted to wind the clarion blast of their dragon-spine horns. The endurance chiselled into stern features mapped the bygone millenia prior to Mankind's inaugural settlement."
It was an enormous privilege to receive an ARC of this astonishing book from the author, not one that I can easily put into words.
To be able to read, prior to actual publication, one of the most anticipated finales ever written in a fantasy series, a book that is five decades in the making, and the last installment in what is an iconic series, by who I hold as one of fantasy's greatest living authors, makes on feel that one is part of the history of the genre, in my very paltry, insignificant way. Yet, the feeling pervades.
It is a feeling I will never forget for the rest of my life, and I am deeply humbled to have experienced it.
In terms of the review itself, I believe all would acknowledge, at this point in the series, of course, everything is a spoiler. And if you are reading this review, you have more than likely read all the previous ten books in the series prior to "Song of the Mysteries".
There will, no doubt, be thousands of far better reviews of this book that come after mine. Doubtless, many of those reviews will touch more upon what takes place in the narrative.
I will say, however, that the characterization, plot, themes, worldbuilding, prose, is that all are, and as they have been throughout the series, masterful.
So, I will write this review more for those who perhaps have not read this series yet, or anything by this author.
Thus, I will do something different in this review. I will be giving you somewhat of a character/name/place list of the main characters (or objects, or words/titles of significance) who - either alive or dead at the time of this book - will still define the stunning outcome of the book. This list will also serve as somewhat of a tribute to the brilliance of these characters, and the fabulous elements of the novel and series, created by this incomparable author.
Additionally, it is my hope that by providing such a list, it will give some small sense the staggering depth, breadth, enormous and fascinating scope of the universe, the immense history and lore that Wurts' has created with her worldbuilding, and entice readers to become lost in it all, just as I, and millions of readers have, and no doubt will be, for many years to come.
This list is taken from the glossary in the rear of the book, and edited and abbreviated somewhat, especially so as not to give away too much of the overall plot.
ALITHIEL - one of the twelve Blades of Isaer, forged by centaur Ffereton s'Darian from a meteorite.
ARITHON - son of Avar, Prince of Rathain, 1504th Teir'sFffalenn after founder of the line, Torbrand in the Third Age Year One. Also Master of Shadow, the Bane of Desh-thiere, and Halliron Masterbard's successor.
ASANDIR - Fellowship Sorcerer. Secondary Name, Kingmaker, since his hand crowned every high king of Men to rule the Age of Mankind (Third Age). Acting field agent for Fellowship affairs across the continent.
ATH CREATOR - prime vibration, force behind all life.
ATHLIEN PARAVIANS - sunchildren, dancers of the crystal flutes. Race of semi-mortals, pixie-like, but possessed of great wisdom/keepers of the grand mystery.
BIEDAR - Tribal people living in Sanpashir, Shand, known as the Keepers of the Prophecy.
CATHDEIN - Paravian name for a high king's first counsellor, charged with oversight and integrity of crowned royalty's fitness to rule; would also stand as regent, or steward, in the absence of the sanctioned sovereign.
CANON LAW - doctrine of the True Sect, faction of the Religion of Light split away from the Alliance at the Great Schism in the Third Age.
DACE MARLEY - in service as a valet to Lysaer s'Ilessid.
DAKAR THE MAD PROPHET - apprentice to Fellowship Sorcerer Asandir, Master Spellbinder and gifted seer.
DALIANA - Asandir's chosen heir to the s'Gannley lineage.
DAVIEN THE BETRAYER - Fellowship Sorcerer responsible for provoking the great uprising in Third Age 5018, which resulted in the fall of the high kings after Desh-thiere's conquest. Exiled, by personal choice.
DESH-THIERE - Mistwraith that invaded Athera from the splinter words through Southgate in Third Age 4993. Imprisoned by Lysaer s'Ilessid's gift of light and Arithon s'Ffalenn's gift of shadow in Third Age 5638, and contained under wards in the shaft of Rockfell Pit.
DRAKE SPAWN - life created, or altered in from, by the dreaming of Dragonkind.
ELAIRA - initiate enchantress of the Koriathain, healer. Arithon's beloved, handfast to Rathain in Third Age 5672.
FELLOWSHIP OF THE SEVEN - Sorcerers bound to Athera by the summoning dream of the Dragon Protectorate anc charged to secure the mysteries that enable Paravian survival. Originators and keepers of the covenant of the compact allowing Mankind's provisional settlement on Athera in Third Age Year One. Their authority backs Charter law, upheld by crown justice and clan oversight of the free wilds.
ILITHARIS PARAVIANS - centaurs, of Athera's three semi-mortal old races; defenders and guardians of earth's mysteries who dwindled after the Mistwraith's conquest, departed the continent to take sanctuary.
KORIATHAIN - female order of enchantresses headed by a Senior Circle, ruled by the absolute will of a Prime Matriarch. Selective talent is acquired from orphaned children, or from daughters dedicated to service by their parents, with ranked initiation and a vow of consent that shackles the spirit to a crystal keyed to the Prime's control.
LATHIEN s'IDIR - clanborn woman from Fallowmere, mother of Siantra s'Idir.
LAW OF MAJOR BALANCE - primary tenet of the Fellowship of Seven: no force of nature shall be applied without conscious free-will consent.
LIRENDA - demoted First Senior Enchantress of the Koriani Order.
LUHAINE - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, discorporate.
LYRANTHE - instrument with fourteen strings, tuned in courses to seven tones: two drone strings' set to octaves, and five melody strings, the lower three course pitched octaves, and the upper two in unison.
LYSAER s'ILESSID - prince of Tysan, 1497th in succession since Halduin found the line in Third Age Year One. Gifted at birth to wield elemental Light, known as the Bane of Desh-thiere and Blessed Prince, self-styled as divine avatar of the Alliance of Light.
MORRIEL - Prime Matriarch of the Koriathain.
MOTHER DARK - tribal name for the all-knowing, all-encompassing stillness of the void that is untapped, virgin power, the latent and limitless state of potential that precedes the imprinted act of creation.
MOLTS - young dragons who have left the nest, immature and sexless until they mate as adults
NAILS - nickname for a True Sect divinder influential with the Light's war hosts.
OZVOWZARKIN - heir apparent to Chaimistarizog, Guardian of the Northgate and keeper of the Treaty Accord between the Dragon Protectorate and wild drakes exiled to the splinter world, Sckaithehn Duin.
PARAVIA - continent originally inhabited by Paravians, and local of the Five Kingdoms.
PARAVIAN - continent and name for three semi-mortal races inhabiting Athera before Mankind. Centaurs, sunchildren and unicorns emboy the world's channel, or direct connection, to Ath Creator.
PRIME MATRIARCH - head of the Order of the Koriathain by ninth-rank initiation.
PROTECTORATE - elder dragons rallied from defeat at close of the First Age to defend Paravian sovereignty from Dragonkind's murderous creation of drake spawn and Methurien, allied with the Paravian Concord to stabilize peace, and arbitrators of the Treaty Accord exiling wild rogues to the splinter worlds of Sckaithen Duin past Northgate. Engendered the Second Dreaming of Corith that bound the Fellowship Sorcerers.
REIYAJ SEERESS - titled seeress sequestered in a tower in Shand, near Ithish, with oracular visions. Born sighted, until practice of her art causes blindness, her tradition stems from the mystical practice of the Biedar tribe in the Sanpashir desert.
RIATHAN PARAVIANS - unicorns, the living bridge whose undilute connection with Ath Creator channels the prime vibration through the horn.
ROCKFELL PEAK - mountain in West Halla, Mehlhalla, holds Rockfell Pit, prison for harmful entities throughout three Ages, and warded containment for the Mistwraith, Desh-thiere
SCKAITHEN DUIN - called Fortress of Dragons, splinter world accessed by the North Worldsend Gae, where dissident dragons against Paravian sovereignty of Athera are in exile under the Dragon Protectorate's Treaty Accord.
SEARDLUIN - drake-spawned predator, first dreamed as slayers to prey upon rival drakes' clutches for territorial enforcement in the Era of Destruction. When ungovernable bloodlust spurred their thirst for etheric death, they turned to rogue slaughter in vicious packs. In the Age of Nightmare, they killed drakes in hibernation, evolving the imperative to cocoon in stone for safety. Hunted to suppression by the Dragon Protectorate, resurgent outbreaks occurred through resonant concordance on Paravia and Mhorovaire, until they were battled to extinction, costing death to High King Kidron First Elrienient in the Second Age 7915.
SESHKROZCHIEL - female dragon once mated to Haspastion.
SETHVIR - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, allotted the earth-link and appointed Warden of Althain in the Third Age 5100, when the last centaur guardian Tehaval withdrew after the Mistwraith's conquest.
SIANTRA S'IDIR - daughter of Laithen s'IDIR.
TARENS - townborn crofter from Kesling. Liegeman to Prince Arithon.
TEIRENDAEILIENT MEREVALIA - High Queen Regent of Paravia, sunchild.
TRAITHE - Sorcerer of the Fellowship of the Seven, single-handedly closed Southgate to curtail the Mistwraith's invasion in Third Age 4993, at the crippling loss of his greater faculties.
TREATY ACCORD - agreement forged by the Fellowship Sorcerers and the Dragon Protectorate that binds the exile of drakes who refused to honour the Concord granting of sovereignty of Athera to the Paravians. The factions in dissent reside on Sckaithen Duin, the splinter world beyond Northgate, bound under law not to threaten or harm Athera or damage the weal of the mysteries.
TRUE SECT - branch faith of the Religion of Light reformed by the Great Schism, when the Light's divine avatar turned apostate to Canon doctrine in Third AGe 5683.
VERRAIN - Lisianne's beloved, apprenticed to Luhaine to curb Methspawn; achieved Master Spellbinder and charged as Guardian of Mirthlvain by the Ilitharis Paravians after the Mistwraith's conquest.
There can be no doubt, in my estimation, that "Wars of Light and Shadow" is a signal work in the field of epic fantasy fiction. "Songs of the Mysteries" places a blistering capstone on the career of Janny Wurts, cementing the esteemed legacy of this author in a resounding way, with the completion of her Magnum Opus.
This book was earth-rending, dark, tragic, beautiful, uplifting, filled with strife and war, the ever looming threat of apocalypse, reckless, unrestrained ambition and power, fury, revenge, loyalty, scheming, incredible sacrifice and heroism, loss, and in the end, redemption, and triumph, but not without great cost.
When the Song of the Mysteries plays, you will be completely amazed and dazzled, as the elder powers emerge.
As I end this review, I once more make a last comment about Wurts' prose.
I understand that for some, Wurts’ prose may be too much of a good thing. For me, simply put, it is a thing of extreme beauty, a revelation. To say it is evocative is a paltry compliment. Her style of writing is classical, lyrical, poetic at times, stuffed full of detail, description, subtleties. You can read and appreciate the writing for its sheer loveliness, but in truth, you would literally be missing out.
That is because Wurts weaves clues to sub-plots or major plot points, innuendoes, sometimes even double-meanings into her words, that if the reader fails to pay attention – either completely mesmerized by the prose itself, or overwhelmed by the depth and breadth of it – things will be missed, and misunderstood. There is such delight in the way Wurts writes, that I know I will be re-reading all the books contained in "The Wars of Light and Shadow", including "Songs of the Mysteries" many times over the rest of my life, just for the loveliness of the prose alone.
But I will also be re-reading to capture things that I know I neglected to pick up on the first read of the novels in this series – that's the type of books Wurts writes. She is a master at the craft of writing, and I cannot say enough about her abilities in this regard. She will make you work hard to comprehend the full picture, but I feel the payoff is well worth the effort on the part of the reader.
Prose, for me, is the second most critical aspect of writing required for my personal enjoyment, after characters.
Wurts' prose is the best I've read in any fantasy book ever, and has been marvellous gateway for me to revel in reading her novels.
I leave you with one more example of that breathtaking, incomparable prose, here:
"The encampment mustered in the predawn gloom, wakened to voices and the jingle of arms before the watch roster recalled the outlying sentries. Commotion upended routine at the picket lines, neighs from the horses selected for battle shrilling through the seethe of assembly before the advance. Servants scurried through last-minute chores and settled their masters' debts with camp followers, handily ducking demand from the roustabout labourers caught short handed in the bustle of packing."
I make no secret that I believe Janny Wurts is among the greatest fantasy writers of all-time, that she is my favourite author, and that "Wars of Light and Shadow" is my favourite fantasy series of all-time.
So it is not surprising to anyone that after reading the final, ultimate volume of "Wars of Light and Shadow", entitled "Song of the Mysteries", that it now ranks second in my favourite fantasy books ever. Right behind "To Ride Hell's Chasm", also written by Wurts.
"Malazan", "Realm of the Elderlings", "A Song of Ice and Fire", "Wheel of Time", these are just some of the series that many readers will postulate as the "GOAT". There are great, justifiable reasons for that. Each of these series I just mentioned has its definitive merits, and readers love them for those merits.
I would ask that any readers who love any of the series that I've mentioned, if you feel you've read all or most of what are commonly considered on the list of GOAT series, please consider reading "Wars of Light and Shadow". You might just find you will have to rearrange your list.
Congratulations to Janny Wurts on the magnificent feat of "Songs of the Mysteries"!
Read
August 8, 2024Well, every saga come to an end, and this was a satisfying end for such a lengthy story, not only in terms of pages printed but years covered in Mistwraith series. Wurts' prose can take some getting used to, making her books a little intimidating to approach, especially considering their size. However, once you get into the flow of how events are described, how people converse, and how magic spells are detailed (often over multiple pages), the story really does flow in a way unique to the author. This last volume sees the (in my opinion, satisfying) conclusion to all of the major characters and problems introduced throughout thousands of pages of fantasy storytelling. There are even some interesting new insights to established characters, even right up until the last page, that I wouldn't have guessed at.
May 15, 2025
What a slog to finish this series. If I had known what I know now, I would never have started the series...
The positive - Janny Wurts has an amazing vocabulary and is a word artist. Some of her sentences are so beautiful crafted that you want to frame it as an artwork.
The negative - A repetitive plot, unrelatable characters, and an excruciating slow pace! Pages and pages of nothing happening, just verbose descriptions of landscapes and inner dialogue.
I would not recommend this series to anyone (well, maybe to someone I seriously dislike), and won't blame anyone for not finishing it. As for myself, I am now going out to buy myself a medal....
The positive - Janny Wurts has an amazing vocabulary and is a word artist. Some of her sentences are so beautiful crafted that you want to frame it as an artwork.
The negative - A repetitive plot, unrelatable characters, and an excruciating slow pace! Pages and pages of nothing happening, just verbose descriptions of landscapes and inner dialogue.
I would not recommend this series to anyone (well, maybe to someone I seriously dislike), and won't blame anyone for not finishing it. As for myself, I am now going out to buy myself a medal....
December 11, 2024
Well, I would give this 3.5 stars but I am erring on the side of 3. Why?
I am torn. I have loved this series and was eager to read the final volume to see how things finally resolve. I wasn't entirely prepared to delve into an 800+ page novel that seems to retread the same ground for at least the first half and then start to add the "exciting" parts. The fact that it took me about 2 weeks to read this novel when I "consumed" most of the earlier volumes in less time was an indicator that it just wasn't holding my interest in the same way.
Sorry to see Arithon and company go but not sad to finally complete this epic tome.
I am torn. I have loved this series and was eager to read the final volume to see how things finally resolve. I wasn't entirely prepared to delve into an 800+ page novel that seems to retread the same ground for at least the first half and then start to add the "exciting" parts. The fact that it took me about 2 weeks to read this novel when I "consumed" most of the earlier volumes in less time was an indicator that it just wasn't holding my interest in the same way.
Sorry to see Arithon and company go but not sad to finally complete this epic tome.
October 24, 2024
Trying to follow the later books of this series is hard work. And this is the worst. Far too many lyrical phrasing and over complications for just a simple scene. Actually lose track of what the hell she's talking about half the time. A shame as I loved her first books in this series but she seems more focused on flowery phrasing than actually focusing on the story.
May 31, 2024
I started The Wars of Light and Shadow in 1994 after finding Janny Wurts through the co-authored Empire Trilogy with Raymond Feist. I have always been drawn to complex writing and storytelling. The kind where there isn't just a good guy and a bad guy or good versus evil. Where there are numerous people, factions, interests, prejudices, politics, religion, mythology, and of course including all of the usual fantasy background.
I don't remember exactly what I thought of Curse of the Mistwraith 30 years ago, but I know I loved it as I have loved every volume since (with some quibbles about continuity in Destiny's Conflict which I have decided to just ignore).
I can now say there are three standout "best books I've ever read" in this series. Without order: Peril's Gate, Stormed Fortress, and now Song of the Mysteries are easily some of the best storytelling and writing I have ever read. One thing Janny was always great at was ending threads and ending books. She never left any book with serious cliffhangers (though again Destiny's Conflict has a cliffhanger, but it wasn't a surprise).
Song of the Mysteries provides the ultimate cathartic closure for a series that's 30 years in the making and 11 books in total. I can say without shame that the last 70 pages were emotionally wracking and produced heaves of tears.
But the other 717 pages were unlike anything else in the series. She created at least a dozen threads in the first ten books and uncapped all of them right out of the gate in Song. I started the Kindle version on Thursday and finished last night (Tuesday). I read fast and it still took five days. I'll be going back to the beginning in a week or two to re-read the entire thing again. This is one of the known quantities of Janny's storytelling. She spent 20 years developing the background and because of this, every book has a layer you peel away on subsequent re-reads. I'm certain Song of the Mysteries will hold true to that pattern.
I literally LOVE so many characters in this epic story. I LOVE the relationships created and sustained and, in some cases, destroyed. I LOVE the magic based on quantum physics and music and that Janny didn't just have magic happen, she showed us HOW it happens.
I love that each character has their own history and emotional make-up with deeply seeded psychology at each's foundational spirit. This includes their flaws and their strengths. I love that Janny writes relationships better than anyone I've ever read. There are numerous instances of "bromances" that are simply beautiful. There are several "side" love stories and of course one primary love story. One for all epic-fantasy eternity.
Janny also pulls the cloth away from war and given what we've seen in the last twenty years, the battles within Wars of Light and Shadow mirror the pointless horror that tears apart the grace of humanity.
In the end, LOVE and GRACE and MERCY and always believing there is a way forward are the most poignant aspects of The Wars of Light and Shadow and The Song of the Mysteries concludes with a final, poetic volume that leaves you with blissful closure to an epic tale.
I don't remember exactly what I thought of Curse of the Mistwraith 30 years ago, but I know I loved it as I have loved every volume since (with some quibbles about continuity in Destiny's Conflict which I have decided to just ignore).
I can now say there are three standout "best books I've ever read" in this series. Without order: Peril's Gate, Stormed Fortress, and now Song of the Mysteries are easily some of the best storytelling and writing I have ever read. One thing Janny was always great at was ending threads and ending books. She never left any book with serious cliffhangers (though again Destiny's Conflict has a cliffhanger, but it wasn't a surprise).
Song of the Mysteries provides the ultimate cathartic closure for a series that's 30 years in the making and 11 books in total. I can say without shame that the last 70 pages were emotionally wracking and produced heaves of tears.
But the other 717 pages were unlike anything else in the series. She created at least a dozen threads in the first ten books and uncapped all of them right out of the gate in Song. I started the Kindle version on Thursday and finished last night (Tuesday). I read fast and it still took five days. I'll be going back to the beginning in a week or two to re-read the entire thing again. This is one of the known quantities of Janny's storytelling. She spent 20 years developing the background and because of this, every book has a layer you peel away on subsequent re-reads. I'm certain Song of the Mysteries will hold true to that pattern.
I literally LOVE so many characters in this epic story. I LOVE the relationships created and sustained and, in some cases, destroyed. I LOVE the magic based on quantum physics and music and that Janny didn't just have magic happen, she showed us HOW it happens.
I love that each character has their own history and emotional make-up with deeply seeded psychology at each's foundational spirit. This includes their flaws and their strengths. I love that Janny writes relationships better than anyone I've ever read. There are numerous instances of "bromances" that are simply beautiful. There are several "side" love stories and of course one primary love story. One for all epic-fantasy eternity.
Janny also pulls the cloth away from war and given what we've seen in the last twenty years, the battles within Wars of Light and Shadow mirror the pointless horror that tears apart the grace of humanity.
In the end, LOVE and GRACE and MERCY and always believing there is a way forward are the most poignant aspects of The Wars of Light and Shadow and The Song of the Mysteries concludes with a final, poetic volume that leaves you with blissful closure to an epic tale.
September 29, 2024
I really liked the first half of the series, but was much less inspired after it jumped 300 years forward. In the fourth arc (Initiate's Trial and Destiny's Conflict) there was reference to major events that occurred in between the books. This made it harder to follow the story because those events hadn't been described previously. The same thing happened in this book. I had a hard time following the plot.
The first half of this book seemed to be the sorcerers seeing that something was about to go wrong (multiple times) but I didn't understand what exactly was happening. The Biedar were suddenly much more important. That seemed to come out of the blue.
There were also some big time jumps within this book.
The book seemed to be a lot more tell rather than show. I wasn't empathizing with any of the characters this time.
I'm glad that Janny Wurts did bring the series to a conclusion instead of dragging it out further, but this was very disappointing.
The first half of this book seemed to be the sorcerers seeing that something was about to go wrong (multiple times) but I didn't understand what exactly was happening. The Biedar were suddenly much more important. That seemed to come out of the blue.
There were also some big time jumps within this book.
The book seemed to be a lot more tell rather than show. I wasn't empathizing with any of the characters this time.
I'm glad that Janny Wurts did bring the series to a conclusion instead of dragging it out further, but this was very disappointing.
July 24, 2024
Took a few pages to get into, but delivered closure in spades. The overly purple prose and dialogue always takes a bit of a gear-shift to become truly comfortable when returning to this series, and my impression is that Wurts has been increasing the purpleness as the series has continued. The rhythms of her sentences always eventually pull me into comfort with the style, but I do hope her next work is a complete departure from the style of the WoLaS. I have a feeling (from some forum interactions) that Wurts herself is ready to write something completely different -- she has been working on this series for nearly 30 years!
I cried several times at various points, and some scenes can even now prickle some tears just recalling them. There was throughout the novel also an exciting feeling of possible links between the universe of TWoLaS and some of her other work, which I would be very excited to see.
Book 11 of any series is only for people in it for the long haul. I was hugely impressed and not a little envious at Wurts's ability to convey majesty and overwhelming, terrifying beauty in words, especially concerning descriptions of music. There is pathos, catharsis, humour, and closure in spades. Villains get deserved comeuppances. I can't quite believe it's all over. But it is, and the five stars are deserved for the series as a whole.
I cried several times at various points, and some scenes can even now prickle some tears just recalling them. There was throughout the novel also an exciting feeling of possible links between the universe of TWoLaS and some of her other work, which I would be very excited to see.
Book 11 of any series is only for people in it for the long haul. I was hugely impressed and not a little envious at Wurts's ability to convey majesty and overwhelming, terrifying beauty in words, especially concerning descriptions of music. There is pathos, catharsis, humour, and closure in spades. Villains get deserved comeuppances. I can't quite believe it's all over. But it is, and the five stars are deserved for the series as a whole.
November 22, 2024
A brilliant and, in some ways, unexpected end to an epic tale.
Lysaer faces up to his faults and at the final moment accepts responsibility for his actions with humility. I never saw that one coming.
Dakar grows to realise his follies and chooses to become a responsible leader in his own right.
Daliana fulfills her duties and finally finds a measure of happiness.
Tarens finds peace as passes the veil and through his daughter a hope for an understanding between the clans and town born occurs.
The Koriathain and Mistwraith are destroyed.
The dragons grow with an understanding of human emotions.
The seven sorcerers become whole again
The Paravians return and rebirth the powerful Song of the Mysteries.
Arithon and Elaira after having fulfilled all duties accede to the Paravian throne.
I can't praise the finale of this series enough. The writing is wonderful and relates so much to our present human condition.
The final verse in a song written by Arithon could have been written for any of the useless, horrific massacres that we suffer today.
Lysaer faces up to his faults and at the final moment accepts responsibility for his actions with humility. I never saw that one coming.
Dakar grows to realise his follies and chooses to become a responsible leader in his own right.
Daliana fulfills her duties and finally finds a measure of happiness.
Tarens finds peace as passes the veil and through his daughter a hope for an understanding between the clans and town born occurs.
The Koriathain and Mistwraith are destroyed.
The dragons grow with an understanding of human emotions.
The seven sorcerers become whole again
The Paravians return and rebirth the powerful Song of the Mysteries.
Arithon and Elaira after having fulfilled all duties accede to the Paravian throne.
I can't praise the finale of this series enough. The writing is wonderful and relates so much to our present human condition.
The final verse in a song written by Arithon could have been written for any of the useless, horrific massacres that we suffer today.
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